VIDEO: CONVERT WOOD-MOUNTED STAMPS TO CLEAR-MOUNT (CRAZY FOR CRAFTING; CINDY MCVEY))

If you're wondering if unmounted stamps are the way to go, this video might help make that decision.  It's got a ton of good info, so even if you're already taken the UM plunge, take a look at it.  There is music, but it's only at the very beginning of the video.

FREE DOWNLOADS: ASSORTED IMAGES/ITEMS (GABY BRAUN)

Beauties to the max here,  You will be more than impressed.  Then there's Gaby's digital collages...more beauties.  Add to all that, her link list.  Plan to spend a bit of time here.

LEFTOVERS/FREE DOWNLOADS: UPHOLSTERED ORNAMENTS (CRAFT POD; SISTER DIANE)

Here's a holiday ornament you can start creating now.   These are one fantastic way to use those bits and parts and pieces  of fabric you've been sticking in boxes and drawers.  Don't forget to write your name and the date on the back.  This is the type of ornament I like to use as either a bow or tag...from the gift to the tree it goes. 

IN MEMORY...

VIDEOS/TUTORIALS: NYLON FLOWERS/LADYBUG/ANGEL (NEW SHEER)

Boy, oh boy, do these flowers take me back.  There was a time when everyone (and I do mean everyone) had at least one bouquet of nylon flowers in their living room.   Back then, white nylons were dyed in the necessary colors.  Now you can purchase nylon in a variety of colors. Thanks to excellent vids and tuts, creating these flowers is a piece of cake.  The same is true for the the angel and ladybug tuts.

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOADS: FLOWER POT POCKET CARD (ONE DAY WHEN I HAVE TIME; MITZI/ANDREA WALFORD)

Regardless of the time of the year, this card is a guaranteed picker-upper for anyone who receives it.  The tut tells it all; the templates take care of the flower pot.  Good stuff!

FREE DOWNLOADS: BUTTERFLIES (LEARNER)

These butterflies can be printed in the size of your choice.  Bling them to the max or leave them plain...I love options!

TUTORIAL: CANDY BOXES (A COLOURFUL WORLD; SANDY)

Wonder if there's such a thing as having too many tuts for candy boxes.  These have Halloween decos...but they can  be 'dressed' for any occasion (including Father's Day).  Click here to see and do.

VIDEO: DIE CUTS AND MELTED CRAYONS (PAPER THREADS; LAURY)

If you've considered giving encaustic painting a twirl, this technique is a good way to test the waters (so to speak).  It's easy and inexpensive, which is always a plus for a first time venture.

OPERATION WRITE HOME MEMORIAL DAY BLOGHOP

Click here for links to the blogs that are involved.  Don't overlook the Blog Candy!

FREE DOWNLOADS: WALL ART POSTERS (U CREATE; LEANNE)

Any one of the four posters seen here would provide a positive influence.  Great as gifts, great as keepers...great all the way around.

FREE DOWNLOADS: FATHER'S DAY CANDY WRAPPER (KATRINA'S KREATIONS; KATRINA)

Sweets for the sweet!  Nothing's better than candy, and nothing's better than a special wrap  around that candy.

FREE DOWNLOADS: ASSORTED IMAGES/ITEMS (LAND OF NOD STUDIO'S; DEBORAH)

There's a wealth of stuff waiting for you to downloads here.  A wealth...Then there's Deborah's creations...more wealth.

VIDEO: INKJET TRANSFER WITH WATER (ANNETTE IN OZ; ANNETTE HUSBAND)

I'll eat my hat if this technique doesn't get the award for Clever Of The year.  It's fantastic!  Do you ever wonder why you didn't think of stuff  as good as this one?

SUPER, DUPER SITE: SCRAPPY, STICKY, INKY MESS ; UK MARYANNE)

Oh, boy...wait til you see what the incredible goodies MaryAnne has for us to enjoy.  It's all here, and it's all terrific.

RECYCLE: CLAY POT MAKEOVERS (DOMESTIC IN THE CITY; CATHIE FILIAN)

Time to add a bit of pop and jazz to those mundane clay pots.  Shoot, after you get finished with them, you might decide they'd also be perfect for holding all sorts of stuff besides plants.

SUPER SITE: CHRONICALLY VINTAGE; JESSICA CANGIANO

The things found here either will stir up a memories for some or provide a look at 'what-used-to-be' for others.  All comes down to your age...

RECYCLE: RECYCLED MATERIALS FOR MAKING BOOKS (LULU; SUSAN KAPUSCONSKI GAYLORD)

Nothing's better than a free booklet that describes how to use recycled materials for bookmaking...that's about as free as it gets.

TUTORIAL: BUTTON BROACH (CRAFTY POD; SISTER DIANE)

Now you know why you've collected all those buttons.  I think Simple But Elegant is a good description for these beauties.

TEMPLATE/RECIPE: CHRISTMAS PACKAGING AND GINGERBREAD (GO MAKE ME; CATE HOLST)

VIDEO: POLISH CHRISTMAS STAR (YO YO MAX)

These stars are guaranteed head-turners, and  you've got plenty of time to create dozens of  these before the holdiays.  Tip:  Use them when a small, but thoughtful, gift is needed.

FREE DOWNLOADS: FRAMES AND LABELS (THE SUM OF ALL CRAFTS; VALERIE BRINCHECK)

Wait til you see the beauties Valerie has for you. 

FYI: COPICS (COPIC MARKER)

I'm always impressed when a company provides consumers with extensive information for their products.  If you're a Copic user, you'll appreciate what you'll find here.

TUTORIAL: COVERED BUTTONS (BOLT NEIGHBORHOOD; SHELLY)

If you've had a problem creating covered buttons, you will love this tut.  The directions are explicit, and the pictures are excellent.

FYI: COUNTED THREAD FABRIC CALCULATOR (1 2 3 STITCH

Wondering if you have enough fabric for that cross stitch creation...not to worry.  This handy calculator
will let you know.

FREE DOWNLOADS: BEADING BOOKLETS (BEADERS COMPANION

Looking for handy guides to basic beading techniques and beading tools?  Here they are...one click and they're yours to save and/or print.

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: CHENILLE FLOWER ORNAMENT (CRAFTY POD; SISTER DIANE)

There's all sorts of uses for these floral quickies...don't stop at ornaments.  I have no doubts that you'll come up with many more than I could suggest.

TUTORIAL: BASKET (STAMP EZ; HEATHER SCOTT)

Baskets are NOT limited to Easter.  Baskets are holders-of-all-sorts-of-stuff (including party favors)  There's options here...use the listed Nestie, a plain circle die (any brand), a punch or a circle you cut.  Select a circle in the size needed for the intended use of the basket.

TUTORIAL: JEWELED BOBBY PINS (ANNEKATA; KATHRIN)

 How about a couple of these beauties when a small, thoughtful gift is needed.  Course there's nothing that says you can't keep, rather than give.

TEMPLATES: ASSORTED (MONICA STOCKTON)

Most of the templates found here are difficult to find...enjoy!

STORAGE/ORGANIZING: MARLIS BENNETT

In order to find it, you gotta store it so you can find it...here's some ideas to consider.

TUTORIAL: COIN PURSE (ANNEKATE; KATHRIN)

No need to use a sewing machine to create this little handy, dandy, holders-of-all-things purse..  It's the perfect size for holding small stuff..including coins.

FREE DOWNLOADS: ASSORTED VINTAGE IMAGES/ITEMS (DIGITAL COLLAGE STUDIO; MICHELLE)

You'll find an excellent assortment of vintage goodies to download here.  All sorts of neat stuff...

DIY: PHOTOGRAPHY LIGHT BOX (DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY SCHOOL; DARREN ROUSE)

If you feel the pictures you take for your blog lack pop and sizzle, chances are good that a light box will eliminate the problems.  This box is made in a snap, and it's as inexpensive as can be.  Great idea!

TUTORIAL: MAN'S SHIRT CARD (MARTHA STEWART)

You'll gonna love the accolades you receive with this card, and dad will be delighted to know he's worth the very best. Think that's a good thing...for everyone!

Click TUTORIAL (above) to get started.

SUPER SITE: TANGLE PATTERNS; LINDA FARMER

If you're into Zentangles, this site is Nirvana.  It's all here...and more.

TUTORIALS: KNIT FLOWERS (FLOWERS TO KNIT;

The title of this blog is understated...there's patterns for knit AND crocheted flowers here.  But, I have to admit, the patterns that interested me the most were for knit flowers, and I couldn't have been more pleased with the selection. To see patterns for crocheted flowers, click the Crochet Pattern Central button found in April, 07 Archives.  Be prepared...the selection is huge.

VIDEO: RECESSED WINDOW CARD (PAPER TRUFFLEZ; JULIE EBERSOLE)

Here's a  card for all seasons...use the stamps best suited for the occasion, and you're set to go.

RECYCLE: NOTEBOOK (CRAFTY POD; SISTER DIANE)

No more whining about being out of chipboard; eat your cereal like a good girl, and you'll have a ready supply of chipboard.  Love this little notebook, and wait til you see this tut...it's better than excellent.

VIDEO: DIY STAMP-A-MA-JIG (STAMPING VIDEOS; KAREN)

Here you go...just what you need for accurate placement of that stamped image.

VIDEO: DRAWING BOWS, BUGS, BUTTERFLIES AND FLOWERS (BILLIE'S CRAFT ROOM)

There are those times when a small bow, bug, butterfly, or flower is absolutely needed, and you don't have the stamp.  Here's the solution...piece of cake.

RECYCLE: BOOK COVER BOX (ART IN RED WAGONS; KIMMIE)

Wonder if this qualifies as an Altered Book (Cover)?   I do know it qualifies for the Clever, Clever, Clever list.  Off to Goodwill to grab a few books...

TUTORIAL: FACIAL TISSUE POUCH (WEDDING BEE; MRS. SPRING ROLL)

Here's a no-sew paper version of the ever popular facial tissue pouch.  Seems we all need them, so they're a terrific gift for all sorts of occasions (including wedding favors).

RECYCLE: SNAP OPEN POUCH (ANN THE GRAN; CAROL)

Be still my heart!  This creation is right at the top of the Clever As Can Be list...wait til you see the supply used to ensure that this pouch snaps open and closed.

TUTORIALS/TEMPLATES: CHRISTMAS CREATIONS (BGFL CUSTOM RESOURCES)

Those of you who enjoy getting an early jump on creations for the holidays are gonna be in 7th heaven here.  If you're like me and tend to wait til November snows hit the roof before getting holiday stuff together...stick this in your favs.

TUTORIAL: TRIANGLE STAR CARD (STAMP OWL)

Wait til you see what's behind this link.  Now there's a card! 

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOAD: ONESIE WITH TIE APPLIQUE (BRASSY APPLE; MEGAN)

I have an idea daddy would love to see his little man all dressed up in this 'big boy' outfit.  We all know how absolutely adorable the little guy will be.  BTW: If you'd like a matching card, fold a piece of card stock that is slightly wider and longer than the download; place the top of the tie just past the fold at the top of the card stock and trace around the download.  Remove the download and cut along along the marked lines.  Bingo!  One nifty Father's Day card.

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: TRIANGLE TREAT BOX (SPLIT COAST STAMPERS; CAROLYN KING)

The shape of this box is a guaranteed attention getter.  Bling it up to your heart's desire for even more fun.

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: ACCORDION SPINE BOOK (SCRAPPY, STICKY, INKY MESS; MARY ANNE WALTERS )

Scoring and folding the accordion spine in a Kennedy Book can be a difficult process. A good tut with a video, and a scoreboard has changed that hassle.  This book is a keeper,  provided someone doesn't spot it and and turn it into a given. 

ULTRA SUPER SITE: CRICUT LOVERS GUIDE TO DESIGN STUDIO AND GYSPY (NARELLE)

If you have either Design Studio or Gypsy for your Cricut, this site is the know-all to end-all.  To say it's packed is an understatement.  Doesn't get much better than this.

TUTORIAL: KNIT CABBAGE ROSES (MAIZE HUTTON)

So nice that knitters get a chance to create flowers..the crochet set has somewhat monopolized things.  You don't need to be well versed in knitting stitches; in fact, these darlings are a piece of cake to knit.

TUTORIALS/TEMPLATES: CREPE PAPER DAFFODILS (MARTHA STEWART

Fortunately, daffodils are not limited to spring time.  A bouquet of these beauties is admired any time of the year.  

NAME CHANGE: CRICUT SEARCH TO MY CUT SEARCH

Just in case you didn't get the news, be sure to change the addy in your favs.  This site is a Must Have for Cricut owners.

TUTORIAL: PLACING A PHOTO ON CANVAS (BRIGHT HUB; CHRISSY DEAN)

Wonder how those photos are placed on a canvas?  Here's how.  Pretty easy, very inexpensive, and super neat. 

TUTORIALS: GIFT WRAPPING (PAPER RUNWAY; MAE)

The five gift wrapping techniques seen here are quick, easy...and guaranteed to add a pop to the gift they surround.  Give a click to the download link, and away you go!

RECYCLE: DIY TUBE TURNER (MICHELE MADE ME; MICHELE PACEY)

Nothing is a bigger time-taker (or bigger hassle) than turning a tube right side out without a turner. If creating fabric tubes isn't on your often-do list, chances are good you don't have a turner.  TaDa!  Here you go...no more hassles.

FREE DOWNLOADS: 2012 CALENDARS (GRAPHIC GARDEN; HELENA NORMARK)

These calendars are just the ticket for those who like to plan ahead...

FYI: DIE CUT MACHINES COMPARISON CHART (PAPER THREADS)

Wonder which machine does what, when and how...although last updated in 09, this chart will still offer comparisons for the listed machines..

RECYCLE: FELTED KITCHEN ITEMS (BLAIR PETER; BLAIR STOCKTON)

You're going to be so happy that you kept those old wool sweaters...really happy!  Can you believe those ratty sweaters could end up being so useful?

SUPER SITE: CRAFTY MAMMA LOVE N HUGS (LESLEY)

Woo...wait til you see the beauties Lesley has waiting for you.  Lots to see; lots to learn; lots to enjoy.

ULTRA SUPER SITE: A TOUCH OF GRACE; JERRI KAY

Jerri's gorgeous and stunning creations are enhanced by her ability to think waaay outside the box.  You will greatly enjoy your visit here.

VIDEO: TISSUE IMAGE TRANSFER ON CANDLE (KATHIE AND STEVE)

This technique is different than others I've seen, and I think the results are better.  See what you think.

TUTORIAL: SUPER SIMPLE PAPER STAR (ANNEKATA)

Hey...what better than a star for the Father's Day star?  This one is so speedy you'll want to fill the room with them.

TUTORIAL: UNSTICKING PRESSURE SENSITIVE ADHESIVES (LOVELEE NOTES; LISA)

Ever had one of those days when a layer kind of got stuck in the wrong spot?  Join the crowd!  Here's a simple solution to unsticking those Pressure Sensitive Adhesives (tapes, dots, sheets, Xyron, etc.)).  One reminder: always check to make sure the PSA you're using will cooperate...once in a while they don't.

FREE DOWNLOADS: ASSORTED IMAGES (DIGITAL COLLAGE SHEETS)

There's something for everyone here.  And they're free!  Be sure to check out the Printing Tips (link in  menu at top of Home page).  There's all sorts of good info there, in addition to the printing tips.

TUTORIAL: POP-UP CARD USING ON THE EDGE DIE (RON WILHELM)

Another candidate for the "oh, so clever' award.  Don't you love it when someone comes up with a technique that provides us with another reason to buy something...

BEYOND SUPER SITE: FEATHERS AND FLIGHT; JILL MCCALL

Your romantic side will be inspired by the stunning creations found here.  They're really outstanding.  Another plus...links to sites offering downloads.

TUTORIAL: DIY BAKER'S TWINE (SCRAPPY, STICKY, INKY MESS; MARYANNE)

When the color you need isn't in your stash, this solution is easy, quick and super inexpensive. Thanks to the video, you won't have any problems.

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: BUSINESS CARD CASE (MARTHA STEWART)

Bet dad would be delighted with a casefor his cards...especially when it's created by one of his adoring kids.  No better gift than one from the heart of a loved one.

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: SIDE STEP CARD (SPLIT COAST STAMPERS; BEATE JOHNS)

This card is a guaranteed attention-getter.  Everyone will be anxious to know how you did it when the envelope is opened.   Great fun!

TUTORIAL NOTE CARD BOX (CAPADIA DESIGNS; DIANE CAMPBELL PAYNE))

This folder filled with cards would be greatly appreciated by brides, new mothers, grads, and anyone who  needs a card now and then (think that includes everyone!).

TUTORIAL/DOWNLOADS: MATRYOSHKA DOLLS (MAIZE HUTTON)

What do you want to bet?  First word out of your mouth when you open this link will be a long ooooh.

TUTORIAL: ENVELOPE BOX FOR 3 X 3 CARDS (MOCHA MEMORIES; SHELLY HOPPS)

Great box for storing 3 x 3 cards and envys; great box for mailing dimensional cards; great box to use in many ways.  And it's as easy as can be thanks to Shelly's tut and pictures.

HAPPY, HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY...

TUTORIAL: CANDY COLLARS (ZAKKA LIFE; JESSICA)

Bet you haven't the faintest idea what Candy Collars are...I figured  that a punched paper flower surrounding a piece of candy could be called a Collar.  Even though these collars surround Valentine candy, I'm guessing they're equal opportunity.  Dig out your punches and start collaring candy...the bigger the piece of candy, the bigger the punch.

DOWNLOADS: COMPREHENSIVE ASSORTMENT (DON'T EAT THE PASTE; SHALA)

Don't think you'll find a more comprehensive assortment of items to download than you'll find here..  It's really incredible..many thanks, Shala..

TUTORIAL: GRAD GIFT CARD BOX (PLAID ON LINE; DEBBIE SAENZ)

Although this tut is directed to a gift card for a graduate, slight modifications will make it suitable for any gift giving situation.  You have to admit...this is a neat way to present that welcome card.

TUTORIAL: SPEEDY FELT BOW (CRAFTINESS IS OPTIONAL; JESS)

Here you go! This is the 'one, two, whee' bow... impossible to create a bow faster or easier.

TUTORIAL/TEMPLATES: WALLFLOWERS (BILLIE MONSTER)

If your part of the country still is fighting the approach of spring, here's the solution to the never-ending winter  you're 'enjoying.'  If the flowers in your life are in full bloom, there's all sorts of ways these can be put to good use.

TUTORIAL: BITTY BOOKS (EXTREME CARDS; CAROL)

Everyone needs a library of these darlings...perfect for all sorts of jottings.  The step by step pictures are just what is needed; you won't have any problems in creating a slug of them.

CHALLENGE: ARTFUL BAG (FROSTED PUTUNIAS; ANNA)

Bag ladies unite!  And here's the spot to do it.  Nothing's better than finding a slug of other people who enjoy the same stuff you do.  Check out the rules and regs here.

TUTORIAL: MARBELIZED GLASS MARBLE RING (HAPPY CAKE CRAFTS; TABITHA)

If your ring selection needs a boost, give thought to creating this one.  Certainly is easy, quick and inexpensive...perfect, perfect, perfect.

TUTORIAL: WATERMARKING BLOG PHOTOS (CHEAP CHIC HOME; KIM)

Here's what you do to watermark pictures you post on your blog.  Don't you love people who know how to do this stuff...and tell us how to do it.

FREE DOWNLOADS: MOTHER'S DAY CARDS/QUOTES/GIFTS (HOME MADE GIFTS)

No card or gift...not to worry!  Thanks to these cards, you'll still be the apple of your momma's eyes.  Click, print and give. AND...if you're in need of a saying for the inside of that card...those are here too.  AND that's not all...check out the great tuts for gifts you can quickly create.  Like I said...not to worry!

TUTORIALS: NAPKIN FOLDING (DELISH)

Surprise momma with a fancy folded napkin on that breakfast-in-bed tray you're planning for her day.  There's examples of 20 folded napkins here, so you're set for any deserving occasion.

FYI: GLUE SELECTION CHART: GRAFIX

There's a slug of sticky stuff info waiting for you here.  Either save it to your hard drive or print it out to place in your Art Journal (which we know you have at your finger tips at all times).

TUTORIALS: DIY FANTASTIC PLASTIC FABRIC/ WALLET (ART-E-ZINE; GILLIAN ALLEN)

This 'fabric'  is sturdy and grungy; leave it to Gillian to come up with it.  Am sure you won't be surprised to learn the wallet tut is excellent...

RECYCLE: WALL FLOWERS (MICHELE MADE ME; MICHELE)

Soon as you see these, you're going to think of all sorts of ways to use them.  I'm thinking mobiles, wall art, tree ornaments, embellishements (gift packaging, cards, layouts), jewelry (pins, earrings), hair ornaments.  How about you?  What you use them for will determine the type and color paper, and the size of the curcle.  Then there's fabric...more options.

FYI: HOW A SEWING MACHINE WORKS (CREATIVE JOURNEYS; MARLIS BENNETT)

Thanks, Marlis, for finding these.  Plan to have a laugh (or two).

SUPER SITE: SAL-UTATIONS; SALLY H.

You'll find one splendid creation after another here.  I especially like her entries to the Less Is More group...bet you will too.

FREE EZINE: CRAFT STAMPER

Another eZine ready and waiting for you; click here for the free issue.  Please note that this offer expires October 1, 2011.

TUTORIAL: WIRE NEST CHARM (BLESSED AND DISTRESSED; SHEILA R.)

Here's a charm you'll want to see (and create).  Perfect gift to give or keep...easy as can be too.

TUTORIAL: FELT DAFFODILS (HARTFELT FABRIC ART; JUDY HARTMAN)

If spring is taking her old sweet time arriving in your neck of the woods, consider a bouquet of these til the real ones pop out of the ground.

TUTORIAL: FRAYED FABRIC FLOWER (CUT OUT + KEEP; MAIZE HUTTON)

I'm calling this the Super Speedy, Super Easy Flower.  Most fabrics can be torn in the strips (test tear your fabric), which will produce more frays along the edge.  The stitch along the edge can be either hand or machine (basting stitch).  It's USPS Friendly, provided you don't use a clunky button in the center (substitute with a circle of fabric, small beads that are glued, etc.).

TUTORIAL: FELTING CROCHETED CREATIONS (CROCHET ME; TONI REXROAT)

Felting crocheted items is receiving more and more attention.  Click here to get the nitty gritty.

VIDEO: ANGELINA FIBERS (JOGGLES; BARBARA STREMBICKI)

You're going to love this video if you've had questions about Angelina Fibers.  No question, Angelina Fibers offer options to the max for paper and fabric lovers.

STORAGE/ORGANIZATION: RIBBON (CHICA AND JO; CHICA)

Clever as can be...you'll love this idea.  Don't worry about the ribbons getting all crimped and wrinkled in the bag: stuff stored in plastic bags stays wrinkle free (static?).  Another reason to love this...the bag can be smooshed flat when needed (like stuffing it into a box to take to a friend's house for some stamping and eating fun).

TUTORIAL: CUPCAKE/CAKE STAND (CAKE JOURNAL; LOUISE)

Sometimes the need for a cupcake/cake stand pops up out of the blue.  Be prepared and stick this tut in  your favorites.  If necessary, the cake boards (rounds) can be cut from cardboard,  although most crafts stores will have all of the supplies.