MEMORIAL DAY

FYI: PRISMACOLOR COLORED PENCILS CHART

Sorry, you have to do the work here, but filling in the colors will be fun if you're a member of the 'I Love To Color' gang. The chart isn't exactly something you can chuck in you purse...might work if you print out several sheets, then divide those into notepad-sized sheets that could be bound (even stapled) and stuck in your purse.

Click FYI (above) and get ready to color.

TUTORIAL: ORIGAMI NECKTIE BAG (ORIGAMI CLUB)

Talk about the perfect gift bag for Father's Day! Even if you don't want to fold the bag, having a tut for the necktie is terrific. This site includes both a diagram and animation for the bag, handle and tie...easy, peasy.

Click TUTORIAL (above), then start folding.

TIPS/TRICKS: THE PINK ELEPHANT TIP ROOM (ELLA AND FRIENDS)

Just like the title says, tips and tricks! You'll love 'em. Click TIPS/TRICKS (above) to see these goodies.

VIDEO/TUTORIAL: CHANGE THE COLOR AND SIZE OF A DIGI (BIRD'S CARDS)

You'll find this video beyond excellent...every question you could think of is answered. Outstanding, especially for those of us who can't figure out how to do this stuff.

Click VIDEO/TUTORIAL (above) and learn, learn, learn!

TUTORIAL: BABY CARD (CAPADIA DESIGNS; DIANE CAMPBELL PAYNE)

Although this card was created with Cricut cuts, other die cut machines and punches will achieve the same design. What ever you use, the parents of the new baby will love it.

Click TUTORIAL (above) to see how. Cricut owners will flip over the outstanding content of this blog.

TUTORIAL: METAL FLOWERS (THE PAPER TRAIL; LAURA)

Now here's a new twist to flower creations...pretty snazzy is you ask me. Click TUTORIAL (above) to see how it's done.

TUTORIAL: DIGI STAMPS 101 ( OWH STARS AND STAMPS)

Here's another tut for digi stamps. This one includes a lot of info relating to Word. If you haven't tried a digi or two, give them a whirl. Gotta keep up with the times!

Click TUTORIAL (above) to get the know-how.

FYI: MEASURING TRICKS (MARTHA STEWART)

Here's the stuff that serves as measuring guides when you're on a shopping spree. Course, one of those cute little retractable measuring tapes from the dollar store also works, and they don't require much room at the bottom of a purse.

Click FYI (above) to see Martha's way.

FREE DIGITAL STAMPS (FREE DIGITAL STAMPS; ALLISON)

Yippers, that's right...free, free, free! How 'bout that for a deal? Click FREE DIGITAL STAMPS (above) and have a blast.

TUTORIAL: LEAVES ON STEMS (THE HAPPY HOME; BELINDA)

If this doesn't qualify as clever, I don't know what would. Bits and parts and pieces does the job, plus a few interesting sticks from the yard. Good, good good!

Click TUTORIAL (above) and get creative!

FREE DOWNLOADS: OWL NOTECARDS AND ENVELOPES (TRICIA RENNEA

These are sooo cute! Since owls seems to be the bird of the year, these notecards are great for either sending or giving.
Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) and start the process.

TUTORIAL: HAND STITCHED WORDS (STUDIO CALICO; SUSAN)

This super easy technique for hand stitching words on paper will eliminate any concerns you might have had about using this technique. It's not involved, and the finished results are terrific.

Click TUTORIAL (above) to see and learn.

FREE DOWNLOADS: PRETTY PASTELS (CREATIVE CRAFTER UK)

Pretty is as pretty does...and these are as pretty as can be. Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) to see and print.

TUTORIAL: JEWELED NAPKIN RINGS (TATERTOTS AND JELLO; JEN)

No more plain-jane napkins rings! These charmers will bring a bit of class to every meal. Although burlap is used to wrap the ring, those of us who are allergy to burlap can substitute with the fabric of our choice. Another substitute...PVC pipe cut into sections for the rings as suggested by Jen.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and start having fun.

TUTORIAL: SEEDED PAPER FLOWERS (HOW DOES SHE; MISSY)

How fun are these? The perfect 'little' gift when a biggie isn't needed. Click TUTORIAL (above) and see the cleverness.

FREE EZINE: PAPER MACHE (ISSUE 3)

Click FREE EZINE (above) to see the latest issue of this great ezine. Sign up if you'd like to receive your free issue.

FREE DOWNLOADS:COLLAGES (CEMERONY SHARE; JULIA VAN DER WERF)

In addition to gorgeous baackgrounds, Julia has one stunning collage after another here for you to download. Absolutely lovely!

Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above)and plan to be impressed.

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: SCOR-PAL ENVY (THE FRUGAL CRAFTER; LINDSAY WIERICH)

This is the way to use Scor-pal to create a Faux Martha Scoring Board Envy. All the stuff you neeed to know is here, so it's a piece of time-saving cake. Great to know!

Click TUTORIAL/VIDEO (above) to begin your envy stash.

SEWING MACHINE TIPS: SEWING MACHINE NEEDLES (SCHMETZ NEEDLES)

To say I'm a committed Schmetz needle user is an understatement...will not, ever, ever use any needle but a Schmetz in my machine. This site is so packed with needle and sewing info that it'll take you a week of Sundays to explore. Good stuff to know...regardless of what you stitch with your machine.

BTW: Rhonda Pierce, Schmetz Sewing Educator, recommends using a Top Stitch needle for heavier threads requiring a larger hole, and a Microtex needle for fine threads requiring a smaller hole when stitching on paper.

Click SEWING MACHINE TIPS (above) and start reading.

TUTORIAL: OILCLOTH LUNCH BAG (MARTHA STEWART)

Inexpensive, cute, totally useful, one of a kind, reusable, AND easy...the perfect lunch bag. A couple of tips: use the appropriate needle in your machine (check out the Schmetz Needle Guide entry that will be posted later today); if your machine doesn't have a Teflon Coated foot, place a strip of paper along the seam line prior to stitching (gently tear the paper away after stitching).

One more tip...buy a roll of register tape at a dollar store to have handy when stitching on oilcloth, plastic or other 'sticky' fabrics if you don't have a Teflon foot.

Not into stitching, but need a bag or two...either fabric glue or staples (close together) work with woven fabrics; 1/4" wide high tac tape (Terrifically Tacky, Red Liner, etc.) along the seam line, plus staples, works for oilcloth; glue, tape or staples work with paper (paper bags will not withstand repeated use).

Click TUTORIAL (above) and start creating.

BTW: I noticed in the Comments for Martha's tut that someone thought oilcloth should not be used by children...news to me, but you might want to check this out if the lunch bag will be used by a child.

TUTORIAL: BUTTERFLY COLLAGE (STAMP, COLOR, CREATE; DAVE BRETHAUER)

This step by step tut is a joy to behold...the finished creation is stunning. Best of all, it's so very easy to do.

Click TUTORIAL (above) to begin the lesson.

MANY, MANY THANKS!

My deepest thanks to you wonderful readers...yesterday PaperFriendly had more than 1200 hits...you make my heart sing!

TUTORIAL: BABY WIPES FLOWER (EMBELLISHED DREAMS; HEIDE BLANKENSHIP)

The way we're going, we'll be creating flowers out of the dog's toe nails before much longer! Have an idea there's going to be a 'Wierd Flowers' contest before much longer. These flowers are gorgeous...you'd never guess a baby wipe was responsible.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and go to town.

BTW: If this flower isn't to your liking, type Flower in the Search Bar, top left of this page, and over 100 tuts for flower will come up. And more are scheduled!

TUTORIAL: PHOTO BOOKMARK (MARTHA STEWART)

How's this for the perfect gift for the perfect dad? Looks to me like it'll work. I recommend you cover the photo side of the book mark with a laminate sheet that is cut to the edges and ends of the ribbon after it is applied (and burnished). The laminate will protect the photo, and it'll also keep the ribbon ends from fraying.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and get ready to please dad.

VIDEO: FELT FLOWERS (THE SCRAP SHOPPE BLOG; MICHELE)

Since the cut edges of felt never ravel, these flowers are created in a snap. You'll love the three types of floral beauties included in the video. The link for the wreath tut is in the first paragraph.

Click VIDEO (above)to see how to create the flowers.

TUTORIAL: CLOTH NAPKINS (MAGGIE MAKES; KAREN)

OK, you got that cute little machine for stitching paper, time to use it now for stitching fabric. No easier stitching creation than cloth napkins. Think of all the paper you save, to say nothing about the fun you'll have decorating the napkins and napkins rings. Whoo..now there's a lot of fun!

Click TUTORIAL (above) and thread that needle.

FREE DOWNLOADS: BUTTERFLYS (BUTTERFLY WEBSITE)

Spring has sprung, and the butterflys are flying. Pick your favorite(s) and print away. Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) to see all of them.

FYI: PAPER SELECTION GUIDES (STRATHMORE ARTIST)

Might be a good idea to print out these two charts so they'll be handy when you need them. Good stuff to know!

Click FYI (above) to see them.

VIDEO: HAND KNOTTED BEADED NECKLACE (PAPER N STITCH; JENNY HOOPLE)

As Jenny says, this video shows the whole nine yards...it really is as complete as it could be. She even shows the correct way to open a jump ring. Excellent and outstanding.

Click VIDEO (above) and start creating necklaces.

TUTORIAL: WEDDING ALBUM TIPS AND TRICKS (ABOUT; REBECCA LUDENS)

If there's an upcoming wedding in your world, it's time to give thought to THE album. For newbies, it can be a daunting task; for oldies, there's always something new to learn. This site has all sorts of good stuff for both newbies and oldies.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and start the plan!

FREE DOWNLOADS: VINTAGE HATS (CHAPEAUX BIBITOP; PITA OR FRANCK)

Hats, hats and more hats...and most sit on the head of a stunning model. These downloads are excellent as backgrounds, collage elements, layouts, envys....some can even be used as the front of a card.

Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) to see and have fun.

TUTORIAL: MANY LAYERED FLOWER (PURSUIT OF CRAFTYNESS; STACEY)

Take Stacey's advice and create a slug of these flowers so they're set to go when needed. These beauties are great for cards, layouts, wall decos, whatever...

Click TUTORIAL (above) and start stamping.

TUTORIAL: BEADED CROCHETED BRACELET (FUTURE GIRL; ALICE)

How 'bout this for a neat gift? Don't think you have to worry about the recipient receiving dozens of them. Easy and quick to create, and greatly appreciated.

Click TUTORIAL (above) to see it.

RECYCLE: SWEATER PURSE (JANE AVION; CHRISTINE)

How clever is this? Make up a slug to give that pile of 'never-wear-again' sweaters a new fun life. Great idea, if you ask me.

Click RECYCLE (above) and start washing those old sweaters.

TUTORIAL: ACRYLIC PICTURE FRAMES (ZIBULINE; DOROTHEE DOZE)

Using acrylic album covers as frames is one super clever idea. For some reason, Translator didn't do its job with this blog. My French is very shaky (been a long time since collage!), but the pictures are so explicit, I had no problems.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and frame, frame, frame!

SKETCHES: CARD PATTERNS

There's a new sketch every week for you to enjoy. You have the option of posting your creation for that sketch...so do it!

Click SKETCHES (above) to see the fun.

VIDEO: COLORING A DIGITAL IMAGE WITH PSE (PAPERCRAFT PLANET; HOLLY YOUNG)

You will have to sign into Paper Planet in order to view this video, so if you're not a member, registration will be necessary. BTW: PP is a great spot.

Click VIDEO (above) to see one terrific video.

TUTORIAL: TEXTURE BOOK FOR CHILDREN (NEW HOUSE PROJECT; KRISTEN SUTCLIFF)

If you've got (or know) little kiddos, this book would be perfect when you can't be next to them (think car). They're a fun book and don't require a long list of supplies.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and start gathering textures.

SUPER DUPER SITE: INCHIE ART

Talk about inspiration! One grand creation after another here. You would never expect that 1" squares could pack such a wallop.

Click SUPER DUPER SITE (above) to see the glories.

RECYCLE: JEWEL CASE WALL ART (MODERN HOME BODY;JESS)

Looking for a way to use all those bizillion CD cases you bought to store stamps? Here you go!

Click RECYCLE (above) and start arranging.

TUTORIAL: DORSET BUTTONS (CRAFTY POD; SISTER DIANE)

Looking for something slightly different to use as an embelli? How 'bout a Dorset button? No problems in making them, and the price is waaaay down in the cheapo range.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and do it!

TUTORIAL/TEMPLATES: PAPER IRIS (AMY BUTLER)

Easy and quick...and perfect for all sorts of ways. Great way to use up those odds and ends too.

Click FREE DOWNLOAD (above) and get to work.

TUTORIAL: ADD A MENU BAR TO YOUR BLOG (CUTE N COOL BLOG STUFF; ITKUPILLI)

You gotta hand it to Itkupilli, this tut is so easy to follow, you won't have a bit of a problem adding a menu bar to your blog. I really appreciate anyone who can figure out this stuff and passes the info along to the rest of us.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and get geeky!

FREE DOWNLOAD/TUTORIAL: ENVELOPE (KELLEIGH RATZLAFF)

Little bit more here than just an envy template...but I'll let you read what Kelleigh has to say.

Click FREE DOWNLOAD/TUTORIA (above) to print and learn.

FREE DOWNLOAD: FAUX FRONT PAGE OF NEWSPAPER (FODEY)

Always dreamed of having your name in caps on the front page of the newspaper? Here you go. Lots of other fun stuff here for you to play around with too.

Click FREE DOWNLOAD (above) and have a blast!

TUTORIAL: ORIGAMI FLOWERS: SIMPLY HANDMADE; PAIGE)

This tut is as good as it gets...each and every fold is shown in a large picture so you won't have a speck of problems duplicating the folds.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and go to town.

FREE DOWNLOADS: ASSORTED (THE SUM OF ALL CRAFTS; VALERIE BRINCHECK)

Mercy, mercy...talk about a treasure trove! Everything from vintage papers to punch art beauties. Good, good, good!

Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) and have a blast.

SUPER SITE: NIMBLE FINGERS; SUSAN KESSELMAN)

You're gonna like what you see here...one terrific creation after another. Nothing's better than a great blog filled with great stuff!

Click SUPER SITE (above) see it all.

TUTORIAL: VINTAGE VINE WITH FLOWERS (LE JESS; JESSY)

You've seen enough flowers to fill a couple dozen gardens; time now for stems, leaves and flowers. Combine these in the way best suited for your creation...or use them alone (think wall decos).

Click TUTORIAL (above) and create these floral beauties.

TUTORIAL: TATTERED FLOWERS (HAND ME A STAMP; COURTNEY ZAVALA)

Tattered, distressed, grungy...whatever you call it, the look is terrific. Tim started it all, and we can't get enough of it. This step by step tut eliminates any questions as to the how, when, why or what is needed for the perfect imperfect flower.

Click TUTORIAL (above) for the info.

TUTORIAL/TEMPLATE: PAPER FORTUNE COOKIE (INTIMATE WEDDDINGS; CHRISTINA)

Not just for weddings! These little pleasers are great for all sorts of celebrations. The size of the 'cookie' determines how large the hidden goody can be (think folded money for a REAL goody!). Fun, easy, colorful, different...all the stuff we love.

Click TUTORIAL/TEMPLATE (above) to find out how.

TIME AND MONEY SAVING TIPS: REAL SIMPLE MAGAZINE

How does 50 terrific tips sound? Some will be oldies, some will be newbies. But they're all great and will make your life Real Simple (sorry!).

Click TIME AND MONEY SAVING TIPS (above) to get the facts...

ULTRA SUPER SITE: WALTZING MOUSE MAKES; CLAIRE BRENNAN

You don't find many blogs as complete as this one...everything's here from glorious creations to tuts to tips to templates. You'll love it!

Click ULTRA SUPER SITE (above), sit back, look, learn and enjoy.

TUTORIAL/TEMPLATES: FRAMED SILHOUETTES (HEY NOW WHOA NOW; AMY HANDLEY)

Quick, easy, stunning...these framed beauties are perfect. If you happen to have a die cut machine sitting on the counter, consider cutting the silhouettes to be framed.

Click TUTORIAL/TEMPLATES (above) and frame, frame, frame!

TUTORIAL: CUPCAKE LINER FLOWERS ( CREATIVE JEWISH MOM;

Hey, if you're out of coffee filters for flower making, grab some cupcake liners, and you'll be set to go. Never under estimate the excellent craft supplies found in a kitchen!

Click TUTORIAL (above) and get the liners.

VIDEO/TUTORIAL: DIGI STAMPING (JENNIFER MCGUIRE INK; JENNIFER MCGUIRE)

Still have questions as to the whys and whats of digis? One look at this video, and those questions will be answered. No question digis are the latest HOT item in paper crafts. Easy, inexpensive, quick, versatile, and handy (just a click away) are some of the reasons!

Click VIDEO/TUTORIAL (above) to get the answers.

TUTORIAL/TEMPLATE: IMPOSSIBLE BOX (JUST ADD INK; PAULA DOBSON)

Not sure where the 'impossible' comes from cause it's pretty straight forward to me...so don't think you'll have all sorts of problems creating this very neat box.

Click TUTORIAL/TEMPLATE (above) to see what I mean.

TUTORIAL: ORIGAMI WATER LILY (MY HAND BOUND BOOKS; RHONDA MILLER)

There's a nice surprise waiting for you at the end of this tut...a link to another tut for a book created with the water lillys. Optional, of course, but do give it some thought. You gotta admit, it'd be quite an eye catching creation when completed.

Click TUTORIAL (above) for the water lilly, then click the link for the book tut.

TUTORIAL: RIBBON FLOWERS (JUST ADD INK; AMANDA REDDICLIFFE)

More terrific little flowers to add where needed. No such thing as too many flower tuts! Click TUTORIAL, above, and flower away.

TADA!!!

My e-mail account is back! Whew...can't tell you what a relief that is. One bit of advice: write down your password, the secret question and the secret answer; place that stuff in an easy to find and an even easier stop to remember. Although I still may do as I threatened and tatoo that stuff on my arm.

TUTORIAL: STAMPED ACETATE FLOWERS (SPOTTED CANARY; KARA WARD)

This tut is packed with so much excellent info...stuff about the types of acetate sheets, inks to use, how to thermal emboss, in addition to the steps followed to create one fantastic flower. And no...we're no related (just happen to have the same last name).

Click TUTORIAL (above) to read and learn and do.

TUTORIAL: PAPER BAG FLOWERS (MARTHA STEWART)

Ah ha! Just in time for that back yard graduation party...easy, inexpensive AND one very neat way to use the school's colors. Course these would be perfect decos for a wedding shower too.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and get some bags.

TUTORIAL: PHOTO CUBE (MARTHA STEWART)

This is a slightly different approach to the photo cube. You will need lazar prints for this technique.

Click TUTORIAL (above) gather up some pictures and print away.

SUPER SITE: CREATIVE FLIGHT; RACHEL

Mercy, mercy...wait til you see the endless array of beauties Rachel has compiled. One after another, and each one is better than the last.

Click SUPER SITE (above) to begin a thrilling journey.

TUTORIAL: PAPER CAKE WITH LIGHT (BIG IDEAS FROM A LITTLE GIRL; TERI)

This cutie is as sweet as any cake could be. The candle light is the clincher when it comes to clever. Fun to create and fun to get.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and start 'baking.'

VIDEO: QUICKIE PAPER FLOWER (YOU CAN STAMP IT; AMBER)

Quick as a wink...easy peasy...cheap as sin...no tools needed! That'll do it!

Click VIDEO (above) to see how.

FREE DOWNLOADS: VINTAGE IMAGES (MAGIC MOONLIGHT; BLANCA)

Gorgeous, gorgeous images abound here. There's a grouping of Madonnas that is exquisite. You'll be putting this blog in your favs...

Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) and enjoy!

HELP!!!!

Has anyone gone through the rigors of attempting to convince Hotmail that you forgot your password and need to have it reset? I've jumped through enough hoops since Monday morning to qualify as a circus entertainer and still do not have access to my e-mail.

Along the way I've opened two new Hotmail accounts, have filled in the long form necessary to prove I am in fact Nancy Ward three times, plus pleading for someone connected with either Microsoft or Hotmail to PLEASE help me.

I finally got an answer from a live (?) person today who told me to go to the Solution Center for help...I've been to the Solution Center so many times that I've lost count. The only thing you find there are messages from other people who are as frustrated as me. Ironically this answer was the result of an abuse claim I filed...if what I'm going through isn't abuse, I don't know what is.

The thought of losing my stored e-mail, which include pics, videos and messages from my kids, is heartbreaking. Who knows what mail I've acquired since this nightmare started...shoot, maybe I've won the lottery!

If anyone has any suggestions, I'd be very grateful if you'll pass them along.

And...if you change your password, be sure to tatoo it on your arm!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY...

TUTORIAL: SCALLOPED ROSE (KT HOM DESIGNS)

This scalloped rose is the rose everyone is talking about...no surprise, it's a beauty. And to make your day even sweeter, here's the link (http://kthomdesigns.blogspot.com/2010/04/free-box-tutorial.html) to the download and tut for the box shown in this tut.  Happy Mother's Day!

Click TUTORIAL (above) to begin the fun.

TUTORIAL: PAPER BAG (BLOOMIZE; CLARA)

Here's the tut you've been waiting for! One easy, sensible, quick and terrifically useful paper bag. No way you could make a list that included each and every way this bag can be used...or decorated...or changed in size.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and start your collection.

TUTORIAL: GLASS ENCASED JEWELRY (THE VINTAGE WORKSHOP; ANNETTE)

Pendants made of glass encased vintage images are sooo pretty. They're easy to create and always admired...isn't that what we're always looking for?

Click TUTORIAL (above) to see the hows and whats.

CHALLENGE: THE COLOR ROOM; LYDELL QUINN

If you'd like to see some knock-your-socks-off layouts, here's the spot. The cards also are woozers.  The challenge is to use the designated colors. Needless to say, those colors can (and should be!) used for other paper creations.

Click CHALLENGE (above) to see the beauties.

TUTORIAL: FABRIC PAPER (SQUIDOO; FANNIE)

This is a 5 star tut...everthing you need to know is included. The links to artists' blogs at the end provide you with more roads to explore.

Click TUTORIAL (above) for an excellent experience.

VIDEO: DIY TEXTURE PLATE (DO STAMPING; DAWN OLCHEFSKE)

Here's a technique you'll be using...a lot! The money you'll save is great, but creating original plates is even better.

Click VIDEO (above) and begin the fun.

FREE DOWNLOADS: PRINTABLE FREEBIES (TECHNIQUES ZONE; TRISH BEE)

Here you go...download heaven! Trish has packed everything you could possibly think of (or want) here. Terrific.

Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) to see the gems.

RECYCLE: ZIPPERED PURSE (THE ADVENTURES OF BLUEGIRLXO; JULIE COLLINS)

Who wouldn't want a couple of these darlings? Quick as a wink to make, and they're an outstanding way to recycle old wool shirts, scarves and blankets.

Click RECYCLE (above) dig out those oldies and get crackin.

SUPER SITE: WITH A STAMP AND A SONG; DEB

If you enjoy classy cards, you'll love what you see here. Deb's creations are a delight. Trust me, you'll find several to admire.

Click SUPTER SITE (above)to see an exceptinal array of cards.

TUTORIAL: SPECIAL OCCASION CARD (LOVES TO CREATE; NANCY W.)

Nope...not me! We just happen to have the same initials. I wouldn't mind taking credit for this beautiful card, but 'fraid that's not possible. Although this one was made to honor an anniversary, the format works for any special happening.

Click TUTORIAL (above) to be impressed.

RECYCLE: VINTAGE CAKE/CUPCAKE STANDS (INTIMATE WEDDINGS)

Spring and summer are the time for parties, showers, brunches and weddings. These inexpensive stands will add glamour to any shindig...kind of nice that they're a piece of cake (sorry!) to create and cost just a pittance.

Click RECYCLE (above) and head out to the thrift stores.

FREE DIGITAL BOOK: MINI ALBUMS; SIMPLY HANDMADE MAGAZINE

Want you to know that you do have to give your e-mail addy in order to open the link to this book. I am guessing the addy will be added to their subscripting/mailing list, but I cannot say for certain.

That said...this is one terrific book, even if scrapping is the very last thing on your 'gotta do' list. The layouts are packed with ideas, all of which are easily used for other paper creations.

Click FREE DIGITAL BOOK (above), sit back, read and enjoy.

RECYCLE: VINTAGE BOOK PLANNER (JUST SOMETHING I MADE; CATHE HOLDEN)

One more reason to hit the yard sales this weekend. Probably best to pick up more than a couple of books, everyone who sees the finished creation will want you to provide them with one.

Click RECYCLE (above) and get to the sales.

RECYCLE: PAPER STORAGE CUBE (SMART-BOTTOM ENTERPRISES; DARCY)

How about this for a money-saving idea? Recycling those USPS Flat Rate boxes is another plus resulting from this great idea.

Click RECYCLE (above) to see how to do it.

SUPER SITE: MINI BOOK PIXIE; PAULA J. ATKINSON

This blog is packed with fantastic creations that illustrate the dynamic affect achieved when compositions are simple and uncluttered. Click SUPER SITE (above) to see and enjoy.

TUTORIAL: BOOK BINDING 101 (MY HAND BOUND BOOKS; RHONDA MILLER)

Here's the binding you use for that first hand bound book...or a wow! card, or a clever note pad. Rhonda provides each step, and you'll have no problems completing your creation. One bit of warning; book making can become very addictive.

Click TUTORIAL (above) to enter the wonderful world of book making.

TUTORIAL: GIFT BOW (BABALISME)

This is the first time I've seen this bow-making technique. Since it was posted in October of '09, I must be behind the times a bit. It's one terrific bow...and easy too.

Click TUTORIAL (above) to see how it's done.

TUTORIAL: LIGHT BULB TERRANIUM (THE HIPSTER HOME; JULIETTE MELTON)

These are absolute bell-ringers in my book. Fantastic! The pictures clearly show each step, so you'll have no problems following the tut. Don't know, but I have an idea moms might favor a few of these beauties instead of a bunch of flowers...

Click TUTORIAL (above) to get the low down.

ULTRA SUPER SITE: PHOENIX CRAFTS; JENNIFER JONES

If blogs were rated on a score of 1 - 10, this blog would get a 20. Beautiful stuff here, and just wait til you see what Jen does with punches of all types.

Click ULTRA SUPER SITE (above, sit back and enjoy the scenery.

TUTORIAL/TEMPLATE: PAPER DAHLIA WITH GIFT POUCH (MARTHA STEWART)

Now here's a thought...give flower bulbs rather than fresh flowers for Mother's Day. As always, Martha puts a classy spin on something that is often mundane and boring.

Click TUTORIAL/TEMPLATE (above) to see what I'm talking about.

FREE DOWNLOADS: VINTAGE (A VINTAGE CHIC; JULIE)

Downloads aren't all you'll find here...Julie's creations are as stunning as the downloads she provides. This is a delightful place to visit.

Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) to begin the journey.

TUTORIAL: FLOWER PETAL FRAME (THE CREATIVE PLACE; ASHLEY CONNELLY)

I thought this was the perfect creation for May Day. You'll understand when you see it!

Click TUTORIAL (above) to end the suspense.

FREE DOWNLOADS: JAM JAR TOPPERS, LABELS AND TAGS (DOMESTIFUFF; KRISTEN)

Getting to be that time of the year when the jam pot gets pulled from the cupboard in anticipation of the upcoming harvest. Kristen covers all the bases when it comes to labels...have an idea you won't be creating a jam that's not included in the array.

Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) and start jamming!