VIDEO: CUSTOMIZING RIBBON COLOR (CREATIVITY WITH STAMPS; LAURA PINTO-NGUYEN)

Nothing's better than the perfect color ribbon...nothing's easier than DIY colored ribbon.  The time it takes to color ribbon (seam binding too) is a pittance compared to finding that perfect color on a site or in a store.  This video shows a couple of quickie coloring techniques.  And you've already figured out that you can use the same technique for flat trims (including seam binding) and laces...

TUTORIALS: 50 DIY KINDLE COVERS (KINDLE CASES; DANA)

Yep...you read it right.  There really are tuts for 50 different Kindle cases here for you to create.  There's got to be one you can't live without.

TUTORIAL: VINTAGE DOILY NECKLACE) ELIZABETH ANN DESIGNS; REBEKAH MURRAY)

If you're beginning to gather ideas for Mother's Day gift, this necklace is one to consider.  It's definitely one of a kind, and it definitely will be appreciated.

TUTORIAL: ALTERED WINDOW MESSAGE BOARD (MAKE AND TAKES; LITTLE BIRDIES)

Time to start cruising yard sales to search for an old window frame.  The frame used for this message board can be altered to fit the decor of any room.

TUTORIALS: ADDING SHARE BUTTONS TO A BLOG (PAPER PIXELS; HEATHER WRIGHT-PORTO)

Only takes a couple of clicks to add those handy buttons below a post...here's how.

TUTORIALS: INCHIES (ART IN RED WAGONS; KIMMIE)

I'll warn you right now...it will be impossible for you to select ONE favorite.  No way, no how.  So, sit back, put your feet up and enjoy the Inchies.

TUTORIAL: BOX ALBUM (INSPIRATIONAL TECHNIQUES AND TUTORIALS; MIRJA)

Imagine the surprise when the lid of this box is removed...one whoop after another!

TUTORIAL: CRACKLE PAINT FINISH (ALTERED ARTIFACTS; INKA HEATON)

You will love this technique...easy, inexpensive, and crackles to the max.  No more excuses for not crackling what ever and whenever you want.

TUTORIAL: EVEN LOOPS WITH EITHER HEADPINS OR EYE PINS (HAND MADE NEWS; JENNIFER MERCER)

Making an even loop at the end of a bead with either an eye pin or headpin can be a bit frustrating...til you see how easily Jennifer does it.  End of problem!

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: FAUX PRESSED FLOWERS (SPLIT COAST STAMPERS; ANNE HARDA)

This faux technique looks as good as the real thing!  Easier, faster, and the finished results are excellent.

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOAD: REVERSIBLE BAG (VERY PURPLE PERSON; NOVITA)

I can't get over the incredible array of good stuff found in blogs, and this tut is an excellent example. It's exceptional...detailed, loaded with pictures and printable pattern pieces. Even beginning sewers won't have problems creating this bag.

TUTORIAL: CROCHETED GRANNY SQUARE (CARINA'S CRAFT BLOG; CARINA)

I'm giving this tut an A+++++.  This is as good as it gets when it comes to showing how to crochet a granny square.  Bet you agree...

TUTORIAL: KNOTTED-TRIM FLOWER (CRAFT SNOB; SARA)

How 'bout this technique for flower making?  It's easy, quick, inexpensive...and good looking.  Wahoo!!

CHALLENGE: EVERY INCHIE MONDAY

Bet you can guess what's going on at this weekly challenge!  Be sure to check out the entries to see one glorious creation after another.  Another plus found here...terrific instructional videos.

TUTORIAL: DIY BAKER'S TWINE (FOOTHILL HOME COMPANION; MOLLY)

If your sewing machine has a zigzag stitch, create this twine in a snap.  If you do it by hand, it's going to take a bit of time...but well worth it!  Either way, it'll be in the color you want.

TUTORIAL: BACHELOR BUTTON TAG (SELMA'S STAMPING CORNER; SELMA)

Stunning is the best word to describe Selma's tag.  The flowers created in this way also can be used on either a card or layout.  Where ever they're used, the results will be terrific.

RECYCLE: TIC TAC VASES (PAPER N STITCH; BRITTNI)

These little vases are waaaay too cute!   Stick a magnet on the back, and you've got a fridge-vase!

TUTORIAL: PAPER FLOWERS (REMINISCE; LYNNE)

I'm not going to spoil the surprise you'll find when you see the tool that was used to create these flowers.  I will say, 'why not?'  Super sensible way to save time (and money).

SUPER SITE: BUTTON FLOOZIES; LAURI

Cick here to see all the fun and classy ways buttons can be used.  That button box is going to get a workout!

TUTORIAL/TEMPLATE: TRI SHUTTER CARD (THE CRAFTIBLOG; BONNIE SZWALKIEWICZ)

When you want bells and whistles, this card will make the rafters ring.    It's a show-stopper, by any standards.

FREE DOWNLOADS: DIGITAL SCRAPBOOK FREEBIES (SCRAPBOOK. CREATIVE BUSY HANDS; LUIZA)

This search engine provides daily links to sites with free scrapbook digis...doesn't get much better than that!

FREE DOWNLOADS: OWLS (3 EYED BEAR; MAARTEN JANSSENS)

If you're an owl lover, you're going to flip when you see what's in store for you here.   Can't get much better than this!

RECYCLE: BLOCK PRINT AREA RUG (APARTMENT THERAPY; LEAH MOSS)

Bet you agree that this rug is recycling at the finest...doesn't get much better than this. I love cleverness!

TUTORIAL: PAPER ROSES (ALI'S STAMPING AND PAPERCRAFT HEAVEN; ALI WATSON)

I love these little guys. They are the perfect size for embellishments on cards, layouts, ATCs and Inchies.

TUTORIAL: CIRCLE ALBUM CARD (WHIFF OF JOY; JANE JOHNSON)

Now, this is a card!  Mercy me, if this doesn't produce a couple of wows and squeals,  nothing will.

TUTORIAL: MAGNETS AND HOLDER (BRASSY APPLE; MEGAN)

You're gonna do a double take when you see what's used to hold the magnets...clever, clever, clever, and fun.  Off to the dollar store you go.

FREE DOWNLOAD: SHAMROCK BOX (EXTREME CARDS; CAROL)

This is the perfect box for your friendly, neighborhood Leprechaun to use for those yummy chocolate coins on St. Patrick's Day.

Carol has another bonus for you...a coupon from Sizzix. How great is that?

FREE DOWNLOADS:CONTAINER LABELS (IT'S A CRAFTY LIFE; KIM)

Nice thing about these labels is that you have the choice of either printing the label with words or phrases or printing them plain.  You'll like the assortment too.

FREE DOWNLOADS: ASSORTED TEMPLATES (CUDDLY BUDDLY)

There's great templates here that you'll want to save so they'll be at your fingertips (literally!) when needed.

COLOR SELECTOR: COLOR SCHEME DESIGNER

Here's the go-to site when your color mojo decides to take a vacation...(hate it when that happens).

TUTORIAL: SYMPATHY CARD (INSTEAD OF IRONING; JOCELYN)

None of us enjoy creating sympathy cards; unfortunately we all are faced with the burden from time to time.  This card is a stunning expression of  love and concern during a time of sorrow.

TUTORIAL: DIY PRINTABLES WITH PICNIK (I AM MOMMA, HEAR ME ROAR; CHERI)

Want to create your very own printables? Here's how.  Cheri shows how easily it's done using Picnik.  You'll have all sorts of fun being the creator, to say nothing of having things exactly as you want.

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOADS: TOY STORY BULLSEYE (RUNNING WITH SCISSORS; JESSICA)

If you've got a Toy Story follower in your family, this is a 'gotta do.'  No excuses accepted.  Don't get in a snit...it's easy and won't take much time.  The cost factor is more than pleasant, which adds to the pluses.

VIDEO: DOTS OF GLUE (I LOVE TO CREATE)

Thanks to Aileen's Tack It Over And Over, here's the easy, peasy, quick as a wink, and super inexpensive way to create dots of glue.  Now this REALLY is a good thing!

SUPER SITE: POPPY STAMPS BLOG; ALICE

I am truly impressed with the creations found  here, especially the many ways Alice uses stitching.  You'll find much to enjoy.

TUTORIALS: IMAGE TRANSFERS (MORE THAN PHOTOGRAPHY; NITSA)

This assortment of transfer tuts will certainly jump-start your creative brain cells.  Although I'll warn you...prepare to be over-whelmed.  Just way too many tuts and too little time.

ULTRA SUPER SITE: THE HANDMADE CARD BLOG; SARAH

Mercy me, wait til you see the array of treasures here.  Sarah provides us with one glorious creation after another.  I guarantee you'll enjoy your visit.

FREE DOWNLOADS: LABELS (PAPER SOURCE)

You just never know when you're going to need a label (or three).  These handy templates let your printer do the work, but you'll still get all the credit.

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: CARD GIFT BOX (SPLIT COAST STAMPERS; VALITA REYNOLDS)

This is one handy dandy box...in addition to using it when giving a selection of cards, it's great for any gift that will fit.  Good stuff!

FREE DOWNLOAD: BIRD PRINT (THIS FRESH FOSSIL; CHELSEA AND TOM)

Don't know about you, but this lovely bird print reminds me of the warm and sunny days I'm anxiously awaiting. It's nice it can be re-sized if desired.

RECYCLE: WREATH (HOUSE REVIVALS)

You have to admit, pages from an old book never looked so good.  Using cardboard for the frame is one terrific idea (and as economical as it gets).  Add the embellishments of your choice, although flowers made from crepe paper sound like a winner to me.

Click RECYCLE (above) to get the nitty gritty.

TUTORIALS: WATERCOLORING (WATERCOLOR PAINTING)

It's all here...at least it looks like it is!  Everything you ever wondered about watercoloring, and a bit more.  Remember, water-based dye reinkers can be substituted for watercolors, so no excuses for not trying some of these techniques.

THERE'S ALWAYS ROOM FOR ONE MORE VALENTINE...

FOR THE SWEETEST OF DAYS...

RECYCLE: BOOK PAGE WREATH (FISKARS; LISA STORMS)

Grab that border punch and start creating this wreath...it's a doozy!  Super inexpensive supplies, super quick and super easy...such a deal.

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOADS: JEWELRY BOXES AND LABELS (MARTHA STEWART)

You'll like the clever way Martha turns basic boxes into fancy ones.  The labels (which are optional) add more 'fancy.'  Any of the boxes shown here would be perfect for a special gift for a special person.

TUTORIAL: CROCHETED THROW (ANNIE'S ATTIC; ANNE HALLIDAY)

Either buy specific colors of yarn for this heart warming throw or use bits and parts of yarn leftover from previous creations...your call.  Expect to be overwhelmed with praise when it's finished.

TUTORIAL: FABRIC KRAFT PAPER TOTE (WHIPUP; KATH)

Fabric kraft paper? What's this world coming to?  This stuff is another goody found at the hardware store... those carpenters, roofers, plumbers and electricians haven't any idea how much fun we have with their stuff.  The tut is excellent: the instructions are great; there's pictures galore; links to vendors stocking the fabric kraft paper are given.  Think you could say that all the bases are covered.

FREE DOWNLOADS: DOG AND CAT IMAGES (MFD-CHEZCROQUETTE; NIGEA)

Attention dog and cat lovers!  You're gonna flip when you see the array of images Nigea has for you. 

Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) to see and print.

TUTORIAL: NESTIES AND PAPERTREY DIES STORAGE (RASPBERRY SUITE; DAWN MCVEY)

Storing the stuff we have can be a pain; if you can't find it, you can't use it.  Check out this solution...it might  be prefect for your needs.  When stitching acetate,  use either a silicone foot or a silicone tab on the underside of the presser foot to eliminate drag; if you don't have either of the silicone aides, place a thin strip of wrapping tissue along the seam line prior to stitching, and tear it away when finished.

TUTORIAL: ROSARCH BLOT BACKGROUND (THE PAPER QUILTER; ETHEL AMUTAN

Sometimes we get so carried away with the newest and latest that we forget golden-oldie techniques that were...and still are...terrific.   Bet you'll remember this one.  And wonder why you stopped doing it.

VIDEO: POP ART PILLOW/EASY APPLIQUE (QUILTS AND MORE; JENNIFER KELTNER AND JILL MEAD)

This is an exceptional video for those who think machine applique is a difficult (if not impossible) technique.  In fact, there's tips here for everyone, so even if you're an old hand at the technique, take a look.  Templates are included...easy, peasy!

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: TREAT BOX (SPLIT COAST STAMPERS; BEATE JOHNS

If this isn't the absolute best-of-all treat boxes, I don't know what is.  Think all purpose applies here...whenever you need a terrific treat box, this is the one.

TUTORIAL: WATERCOLORED VELLUM (SELMA'S STAMPING CORNER; SELMA)

This card is stunning.  It easily is the winner in the  'when you care enough to send the very best' category.  One little trick does the job, and thanks to Selma, we now know the trick.

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOAD: VALENTINE CANDY HOLDER (BUNNY CAKES)

Still haven't decided what you'll use when handing out those heart-felt sweeties?  The search is over!  Best of it, these cuties are created in a snap...honest!

PATCHWORK/QUILTING: THE HISTORY OF ALBUM QUILTS (FABRICS; LAURETTE CARROLL)

I think all American women should be aware of our artistic heritage...patchwork and quilting.  The patterns and designs found in quilts dating from the 1780 to 1830 were the creative expression of our foremothers.  Patchwork and quilting continue to be an important creative opportunity, and there's no doubt that it always will be.

Click here for an interesting account of album quilts, in addition to a wide variety of informational materials pertaining to all types of sewing activities.

TUTORIAL: SERENDIPITY TECHNIQUE (CARDMAKER MAGAZINE)

About time you gathered up those bits and parts and pieces of paper and put them to good use.  Options galore with this technique...there's no right or wrong.

TUTORIAL: VALENTINE CANDLE (THE ARTFUL CRAFTER; AILEEN)

This quickie will take care of those last minutes additions to the Valentine list.  It's a true keeper, which adds to the joy of giving.

TUTORIAL/TEMPLATE: PIE BOX (MARTHA STEWART)

Don't know why a pie box can't hold sweeties for your sweetie...a heart here and there, a punched lace border, and a bit of ribbon will do it.

Go here to get the tut and template.

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: CROCHETED HEART (LITTLE BIRDIE SECRETS)

If these little darlings don't add splash to a card (or layout or wrapped gift), I don't know what would.  Might want to crochet a slug of them...then you'll have them ready to go when needed.

TUTORIAL: FOLDER HEART CANDY HOLDER (MARTHA STEWART)

What do you think about having a slug of these sweeties hanging hither and yon?  You have to admit, they're a fun way to dole out candy.

TUTORIAL: WRAPPED WIRE LOOP (ALPHA STAMPS; TERI CALIA)

Creating a neatly wrapped loop on the end of a head pin can be a pain.  Thanks to Teri, it's a piece of cake.  Click here to get the nitty gritty.

VIDEO: FABRIC SHOPPING BAG (GREEN BAG LADY; TERESA VANHATTEN-GRANATH)

If it's by the Green Bag Lady, you know it's green!  Teresa's excellent video shows you how super easy and super quick this great bag is created.

Click VIDEO (above) to see how.

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: SLIDING, POPUP VALENTINE CARD (SPLITCOAST STAMPERS; KIM SCORE)

Whoo!  Talk about having all the bells and whistles in one creation.  Trust me, it'll be the bestest card of the Valentine haul.  Here's where you go to see and do.

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOADS/RECYCLE: VALENTINE ALBUM (IT'S A CRAFTY LIFE; KIM)

It's all here,  everything you need to create this heart-y album.  It's a keeper, no question about that!

VIDEO: CELTIC HEART KNOT (TYING IT ALL TOGETHER)

Jewerly is only one of the many ways this Celtic heart knot can be used.  Watching the video as you complete the knot is the easy way.

ClickVIDEO (above) to see and do.

TUTORIAL: FABRIC HEART GARLAND (HOW ABOUT ORANGE; JESSICA JONES)

This is one super garland.  Stiffened fabric is the way to go...and it's also the way to use up those bits and parts of heart fabric you stuck in a drawer last March.

Click here to see the hows and whats.

ULTRA SUPER LINKS: CREATIVE BLOGS; ANNEKA, AUDREY, DYMPHIE, GODELIEVE, HERMINE, REIN

Plan to spend a few weeks plowing through all the hot shot links these gals have for you.  Goodness to the max!  Click the handy, dandy Translator selector at the top right side of the page to select the language of your choice.

Click LINKS (above) to start the journey.

FREE DOWNLOADS: BIRTHDAY CARDS AND TAGS (OH, HELLO, FRIEND; DANNI)

Stick these in your stash...they're just what you want for birthday gifts for those near and dear to you.

Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) to save and print.

TUTORIALS: NO-SEW FELT WINE BAG AND FLOWERS (UNDER THE TABLE AND DREAMING; STEPHANIE LYNN)

Talk about speedy; talk about terrific!  You'll love the bag, and you'll think the flowers are better than the best.  Can't imagine an easier way to present a bottle of wine, nor of better ways to adorn the bag.

Click TUTORIALS (above) to see these neatos.

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOAD:VALENTINE GIFT BOX (FAMILY FUN)

Nice thing about this cutie is the size options...make it teeny or up to 8 1/2".

Click TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOAD (above) and start printing.

TUTORIAL: MAGNET FACES FOR FRIDGE (PHOTO JOJO)

Don't know about you, but I think these charts are a hoot.  Kind of puts an end to any questions about  your (or their) feelings...and that's not such a bad thing.

Click TUTORIAL (above) to see what you think.

TUTORIAL: CROCHETED MINI HANDBAGS (CARDS BY PAULA; PAULA)

These little darlings are beyond cute, and if they don't replace crocheted flowers as the new hot embellishment, I'll be more than surprised.  I love the 'new mums' cards too.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and plan to ooh and aah.

TUTORIALS/FREE DOWNLOADS: VALENTINE PROJECTS AND PAPERS (SIZZIX UK)

Think you'll find what you want in this  terrific assortment of Valentine stuff.  Trust me, terrific is an understatement... 

BTW: did you happen to notice this is the Sizzix UK site?

TUTORIAL: NUGGETS VALENTINE MAIL BOX (SUE'S STAMPING STUFF; SUE KMENT)

Yippers...this is an 'encore' link!   Thought it was too good to leave parked in the Archives.  Have an idea you'll agree.

Click TUTORIAL (above) to see and do.

TUTORIAL: FRAMED VALENTINE (THE IDEA ROOM; AMY)

This is one super, fantastic valentine.  Have an idea it'll be hanging around after February 14.  Thanks to an excellent tut, you'll be surprised at how easily it's created.

Click TUTORIAL (above) and get creative!

TUTORIAL: BOOK BINDING (ANZOUYA SPOOL)

This binding is one everyone should know how to do...you'll know why when you see the creations at the end of the tut.  NO...I won't give you any hints, that would spoil the surprise!

Click TUTORIAL (above) to see...

FREE DOWNLOADS: LOVING PRINTABLES (THE ANSWER IS CHOCOLATE)

Lovely lovies here...pick the color of your choice...then decide what to create.  You've got all sorts of options, the least of which is to frame it.

Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) and go to town.

TUTORIALS: IMPRESSABILITIES (SCRAPBOOK BOUTIQUE)

You'll love these tips and tricks for Impressabilities.  Never overlook the options!  An added plus: plate stacks are provided for both Cuttlebug and BigShot (BigKICK too).

Click TUTORIALS (above) to learn how to get lots of use from these great tools.

TUTORIAL: PEEL AND STICK WALL DECALS (BRANDY'S CRAFTS; BRANDY)

This technique is one simple and inexpensive solution to vinyl wall decor.  No die cutting machine is neccesary, although you can use one if you wish.  Aren't  'do-it-easy' techniques grand?

Click TUTORIAL (above) to see how.

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: EMBOSSING COMBO (CUTTLEBUG SPOT; NILDA)

Here's the way to use both a Nesties and a Cuttlebug Embossing Folder in the same creation.  The technique is quite an eye-catcher...and the finished results are guaranteed praise-getters (is that a word?).

Click TUTORIAL/VIDEO (above) and get ready for the cheers.

TUTORIALS: VALENTINES (VINTAGE IMAGE CRAFT; SCOTT HENDERSON)

Here's the stuff you need to create heart-thumping creations...all sorts of options, and each one is terrific.  There's a bonus here too, but I'll let you discover it on your own.

Click TUTORIALS (above) and get busy.

TUTORIAL/VIDEO/TEMPLATES: MECHANICAL DOG CARD (MARTHA STEWART)

Looking for a bit of male humor?  Now, I'm not suggesting females wouldn't find humor in one particular card, but it's a given that any male would.  The other two are guaranteed giggle producers, regardless of whom receives them.

Click here to see them...

FREE CROSS STITCH PATTERNS: VALENTINE'S DAY (CROSS STITCH PATTERN)

There's quite a selection  of heart inspired cross stitch patterns here, so grab some aida and floss and get to stitching.  Don't forget that a cross stitched design is an excellent insert for the front of a card...

FREE DOWNLOADS; ASSORTED (ARTZEE CHRIS)

Talk about an assortment!  Whew...you name it, and you'll probably find it here.  Be sure to check out the December 28 post for the Valentine goodies.

Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) to see and enjoy...and print.

FREE DOWNLOADS: VALENTINE CD LABELS AND TAGS (CHRONICLE BOOKS; AYA AKAZAWA)

These are just the neatest!  CD labels for the sweet songs of Valentine's Day...and tags that will add to the joy of giving.  Super ideas, if you ask me.

Click FREE DOWNLOADS (above) and start mixing a tape or two.