Thursday, March 31, 2011

VIDEO: COLLAGE (STAMPINGTON; TRACI BAUTISTA)

In these two videos, Traci illustrates in detail the steps followed when using Collage Pauge to create a collage.

RECIPE: POT OF GOLD (CAN'T STOP MAKING THINGS; GAIL)

As you've probably noticed, I haven't posted any links to recipes.  I just hadn't planned to include food in PaperFriendly.

There's always a first time for everything, and here it is.  Since St' Patrick's day has come and gone, you'll have to find another day that would be suitable for these too-good-to-be-true yummies.  I was thinking this afternoon...

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOADS: SMALL GIFT BAG (CRAFTICIOUS; ELAINE)

How about this when you need the perfect little gift bag?  No doubt about it...this is the one!

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

GIGANIC GALLERY; HERO ARTS FLICKR GROUP

Next time you have a few weeks with nothing (yea, sure) to do, head over here and start clicking.  Til that time arrives, check out a few creations on a daily basis.

FREE DOWNLOAD: FABRIC STASH BOOK (SEW DAILY; STEFANIE BERGANINI)

My fabric stash takes up a lot of room, and keeping track of all that stuff is one super hassle.  This book is a huge help.  BTW: Paper 'collectors' also can put this book to good use...just ignore lines in the description that do not apply to paper.

FREE ONLINE CLASSES: SCRAPBOOKING (SPOTTED CANARY)

If you've had a hankering to start scrapping, or if you'd like some tips and tricks to use in your layouts, this series of free online classes is just what you need.  Click here  to get the info.

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: PRIMARY COLORS ATC (LINDA ISRAEL)

I love a reasonable (very important) way to use the endless bits and parts and pieces we acquire...and this technique fits the bill.  Linda suggests several options, so let your stash determine what and how.

TUTORIAL: COFFEE FILTERS FLOWERS (ANNIE'S ATTIC; CAROL DUVAL)

Am sure you won't be surprised to see that Carol Duval's coffee filters flowers are easily and quickly made...and are very cost effective.  No surprise at all...

TUTORIAL: PINCUSHION/THREAD CATCHER (MERRIMENT DESIGN; KATHY)

Be still my heart!  If you use a sewing machine, you'll flip over this pincushion/thread catcher.  If you use a serger, you'll be jumping up and down with sheer joy.  This is another one of those super clever ideas...

Monday, March 28, 2011

VIDEO: VINTAGE BUTTON BRACELET (COOL 2 CRAFT; CANDANCE JEDOWICZ)

Dig out those vintage buttons and put them to good use...no sense keeping them hidden in a box.

RECYCLE: PENDANT NECKLACE (CLOTH, PAPER, SCISSORS; BARBARA DELANEY)

Here's another special gift for that special mom.  Don't fret if you're fresh out of wood trim...lumber yards have all sorts of freebies in a box of wood bits and parts and pieces.

TUTORIAL: ROLLED PAPER CHESS SET (PAPER, PLATE, AND PLANE; JEROMINA)

Expect to see one outstanding creation when you click here.  Matter of fact, outstanding doesn't do it...for once, I'm speechless.

Sunday, March 27, 2011

QUILTS FOR QUAKE SURVIORS

You don't have to be a quilter in order to be involved; your participation and support will be greatly appreciated.

TUTORIAL: CHUNKY (BOARD) BOOK (MEMORY MAKERS MAGAZINE; KIM FRANTZ)

Don't know why, but spring seems to bring out my book-making urges.  This  book offers several options...everything from an album to a journal to an alphabet book for the kiddos to whatever suits you.

RECYCLE: VINTAGE PENDULUM NECKLACE (MICH L, IN LA; MICHELLE)

Wooee, what momma wouldn't flip over this beauty?  She'll be the only one on the block to have one...making her even more special than she already is.

TUTORIAL: CREPE PAPER FLOWERS (COLORS ARE BLUSH AND BASHFUL)

Thanks goodness crepe paper is returning..  At one time, it was the ONLY supply anyone would consider for DIY flowers.  Kind of nice when the old stuff becomes new once again.

Saturday, March 26, 2011

VIDEO: DUCK TAPE ROSE (MONKEY SEE)

When you care enough to give the very best, there's Duck Tape!  There may be other DIY options for roses, but think how long a dozen of these will last.  Click here to see the vid.

FREE CROSS STITCH PATTERNS: 123 STITCH

In addition to the cross stitch patterns, there's a slug of other freebies here...have a blast!

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOAD: LITTLE RED GNOME (THE TOP STITCH; CARRIE)

This adorable charmer will delight and please.  She's a quick and easy creation...another plus.

Friday, March 25, 2011

TUTORIALS: COFFEE FILTER WREATHS (I'LL GET YOU MY PRETTIES; KRISTY)

Honors to the lowly coffee filter!  Hit the dollar store to stock up, and away you go.  Pretty fancy stuff here.

TUTORIAL: ALTERED TEA TIN (BURST OF CREATIVITY; MELISSA)

What better gift for a tea drinker than an elegantly decorated tin to hold tea? , This one is a beauty...

RECYCLE: BOOK PAGE WREATH (BORN AGAIN CRAFTER; LYSSA)

What better way is there to give a new life to an old paperback book than a wreath?  Costs a pittance and looks like a million...

Thursday, March 24, 2011

TUTORIAL: POPPY/BUTTERFLY CARD (SUZZ'S STAMPING SPOT; SUZZ)

 This card is a 'looker.'  Stunning, gorgeous, fantastic and wow also come to mind.

VIDEO: BUTTON MAKING (THE FRUGAL CRAFTER; LINDSAY)

Buttons are hot these days, and creating-your-own is fueling the fire.  This video shows a slug of super ways to create buttons...in a snap.

TUTORIAL: SHAKER BLOOMS (CONFESSIONS OF A RIBBON ADDICT; JODY MORROW)

Spring is finally (?) getting ready to spring, so it's flower time.  Shaker blooms put a new twist on a golden oldie...fun!

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

TUTORIAL: CROCHETED STARS (FOOTHILL HOME COMPANION; MOLLY)

Crocheted flowers were first, then crocheted purses...it's time for crocheted stars. Cute and quick and fun to stick hither and yon.

FREE DOWNLOADS/COMPETITION: PAPER DOLL AND CLOTHES (CUT OUT AND KEEP; HAVE FUN SNIPPETS)

How fun is this?  An adorable little doll and her wardrobe is waiting for you to print and cut out.  Enter the competition if you wish...or just have fun playing with the dolly.

FREE EBOOK: CUPCAKE INSPIRED CREATIONS (FAVECRAFTS; MARIA NERIUS)

What's better than a cupcake...a cupcake that's calorie free.  That's what you get here...lots of cupcake inspiration, but no calories.

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

TUTORIAL: SEEDED PAPER POUCHES (DESIGN*SPONGE; BRENNA BERGER)

A gift packaged in one of these pouches would have to be spectacular in order to be noticed...

TUTORIAL: ROLLED FABRIC FLOWER (LITTLE BLUE BOO; ASHLEY)

Another winner in the So Very Clever category...and I do love clever.  First time I've seen flowers created this way, and I'm sure it'll be a first for you too.  End the suspense by clicking here.

TUTORIAL: NO KNIT BRAIDED SCARFLETTE (THE LITTLE TREASURES; MAYA)

I know, I know...it's time for flowers and butterflys now, not neck-warming scarves.  Since this is one easy peasy, quickie creation, there's not much sense in not keeping warm til spring finally does arrives.

Monday, March 21, 2011

GLUES AND ADHESIVES: ADHESIVES SELECTION CHART; BEACON ADHESIVES

Tip to the wise: print out this cookie and keep it with the sticky stuff.

FREE EBOOK: GOTHIC ARCHES; NANCY MAXWELL JAMES

Nancy Maxwell James' eBook  is packed with stunning examples of creations featuring Gothic arches.  It's an outstanding endeavour, and one which we all will enjoy.

TUTORIAL: STAND UP STICKY NOTES (ZAKKA LIFE; JESSICA OKUI)

OH!  I do love cleverness.  Click here to see this one.

IT'S OFFICIALLY SPRING!

Sunday, March 20, 2011

TUTORIAL: MARBELIZING EASTER EGGS (MARTHA STEWART)

Thanks to Martha, you 'll have the best looking eggs on the block this Easter.

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: CUSTOM KINDLE COVER (CHICA AND JO; CHICA)

Woo...talk about the ultimate tut!  It's all here: video; step by step pictures; detailed text.  It doesn't get any better than this.  Shoot, it even includes dimensions for each Kindle model.

FREE DOWNLOADS: EASTER PLACECARDS (COTTAGE INDUSTRIALIST; CAMERON BLAZER)

Here are the prefect place cards for that perfect Easter brunch (breakfast, dinner, supper, gathering...) you're planning.

Saturday, March 19, 2011

HAPPY NATIONAL QUILTING DAY!

All sorts of good stuff here.  Check out Free Projects...and consider adding quiltmaking to your activities. (Warning: it's very addictive!)

TUTORIAL: BEADED CROCHET (ALMA STOLLER; ALMA)

Mercy me...wait til you see how quickly and easily you can whip up a beaded crocheted doo-dad..  Stunning!

FREE DOWNLOADS: ASSORTED (BUMBLE BUTTON)

Just about every type of image and picture is found here.  Be prepared though...many will produce a sigh,
ooh or smile.

TUTORIAL: CANVAS WALL DECOR (THE DANCING PEAR; CATHERINE DUCHETTE)

One more entry in the Cleverness category...super, super easy, super, super fast, and SUPER results.

Friday, March 18, 2011

TUTORIAL: ASSEMBLY LINE CARD MAKING (COOKIES FOR BREAKFAST; BETH)

A little bit of this and a little bit of that were combined to create the bouquet of cards seen here.  To speed things up, Beth used an assembly line for the creating process.  Very nice saving time AND money...

VIDEO: CLEMENTINE CANDLE (APARTMENT THERAPY; MAXWELL GILLINGHAM-RYAN)

Another creation worthy of the Super Clever award...

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOADS: BEADED MONOGRAMS AND STARS (MARTHA STEWART)

Another Encore post...as terrific now as it was the first time I posted it ages ago.  Frame them for wall decor, use on a card front, in a layout, or as a tree ornament.

Thursday, March 17, 2011

ONE MORE...

TUTORIAL: KNITTING-STITCH MARKERS (PDX KNITIERATI; MICHELE LB))

If, if, if you have a knitting momma on your Mother's Day gift list, you  must create some of these markers for her.  I'll tell you, a knitter would do back flips to receive these gems.  The round markers (link is in the first line of the paragraph following the pictures) are beyond yummy too.

ULTRA SUPER SITE: THE LAST DOOR...DOWN THE HALL; ELIZABETH GOLDEN

When you feel the need for peace, quiet and beauty, spend a few minutes at Elizabeth's blog.  The pictures, images and comments found here will provide the needed respite.  In addition to food for the soul, Elizabeth also provides comfort food recipes.

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: GLOVE ANIMALS (MARTHA STEWART)

Bunny making time!  Martha has all the info needed to create charming dogs and bunnys using the techniques Miyako Kanamon has in her book, Sock and Glove. 

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

VIDEO: MINI SURPRISE PHOTO BOX (HAMPTON ART; DIANE KOVACS)

This vid is an excellent example of the saying, 'a picture is worth 1000 words.'  No problems in creating one of these boxes...nary a one!

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOAD: TIDINGS OF COMFORT BEADED CARD (QUIETFIRE DESIGN; DEBORAH MARCH)

When you care enough to create the very best, consider this card.

TUTORIAL: FLAT ROSES (LIVE A LITTLE WILDER; SARAH)

Another rose!  You know me, I just can't get enough flower tuts.  Nice thing about this one is that it's flat
(mailable).

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

EYE CANDY: WEDDING INVITATION (OH SO BEAUTIFUL PAPER; SHANA)

You must look at this incredible wedding invitation...stunning doesn't come close to describing it.

FREE DOWNLOAD: LEMON DROP DIGITAL PAPER (STAMP TV, GINA K. DESIGNS)

If yellow is the color of spring...spring has officially arrived!  This paper is as springy as it gets.

RECYCLE: ROSE WREATHS (ALISA BURKE)

Now you tell me...what mother wouldn't love a wreath made of roses?  These roses will last and last, and  never need watering.  Excellent!

Monday, March 14, 2011

TUTORIAL: HYDRANGEA FRAME (FOR THE LOVE OF PAPER; KIMBERLY CRAWFORD)

This frame is a beauty, and would cetainly delight anyone who receives it (I'm thinking Mother's Day).  The coloring technique Kimberly uses produces stunning results.

TUTORIAL: MINI CAROUSEL PURSE (CATCHIN' THE STAMPIN' WAVE; DIANNE SHIOZAKI)

Consider these for Easter baskets.  If you don't have the large scalloped circle die, use a plate as a template to trace a circle, then cut along the marked line with a decorative edger scissors.  Works every time!

RECYCLE: BUTTERFLY GARLAND (MICHELE MADE ME; MICHELE)

Now tell me...is there a better way to welcome spring than a slug (bunch. slew, pride, school, pack) of butterflies?  Michele has an interesting way of creating them, and it's super.

Sunday, March 13, 2011

RECYCLE: GROCERY BAG PLACEMATS (CRAFTZINE; DIANE GILLELAND)

Waste not, want not...here's one shinning example that more than proves that saying.  From now on, I have an idea which answer you'll give when asked, 'paper or plastic?'

RECYCLE: MAGAZINE PAGE FAVOR POUCHES (MEL DESIGNS)

Bet these little cuties would work as Easter baskets...worth a try, anyway.

TUTORIAL: RED-ROCKER GIFT WRAP (BOAK ART; JOHN BOAK)

We all know the best things comes in little packages, so it stands to reason that the best packages are the little ones...wait til you see this one!

Saturday, March 12, 2011

TUTORIAL: LEPRECHAUN TRAP (BEVERLY'S)

End the problem of dealing with those pesty little guys...trap 'em!  Here's how.

TUTORIAL: BLINGY HEADBAND (FANCY LADS EMPORIUM)

Talk about speedy!  Whip up a few of these beauties to have at the ready whenever needed. Tip: Goodwill stores usually have bunches of clip-on earrings.

TUTORIAL: RIBBON AND BIRD CHANDELIER (LIVING WITH LINDSAY; LINDSAY)

Mercy me...just wait til you see this beauty!  It's not difficult, but it will take a bit of time, and worth every minute.

Thursday, March 10, 2011

FREE CANVAS OFFER: CANVAS PEOPLE

Looks like a smoking deal...but I admit, I haven't done it.   

FREE DOWNLOADS: GIFT BOXES WITH BIRD IMAGES (DON'T EAT THE PASTE; SHALA KERRIGAN)

Bird lovers would greatly appreciate receiving a gift in one of these boxes...the images and colors are beautiful.

TUTORIALS: PIN CUSHIONS (CREATIEF BLOG VANDE WEEK (ANNEKE)

There's links to two pin cushions here. Both are beyond charming and either would be a greatly appreciated gift.  Let's face it...we all have pins, and they need (deserve) a nice nesting spot.

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

TUTORIAL: RICK RACK RINGS (CUT OUT AND KEEP; MAIZE HUTTON)

Cute little rick rack flowers are just right for all sorts of things...including rings.  Quicker than that to create, and even easier.

TUTORIAL: PILLOW CASE DRESS (FAB SHOP HOP; BARBARA WEILAND TALBERT)

Getting to be that time of the year when every little girl wants some new 'springy' dresses.  Whip up this one in a flash, and your little darling will be the belle of the ball.

FREE DOWNLOADS: ASSORTED (MARDAR'S PRINTABLES; MARDAR)

Goodness gracious, sake's alive!  Wait til you see the huge array of downloads Mardar has for you.  Terrific, fantastic, and wow.

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOADS: MOOSHY BELLY BUNNY (CHEZ BEEPER BEBE; HOLLY)

How fun would one of these be in the baskets on Easter morning?  They're created in a flash with odds and ends, which adds to the fun.

FREE DOWNLOADS: ST. PATRICK'S DAY TREAT BAG TOPPER (CHICA AND JO)

Here you go...the perfect topper for those goody bags you'll be handing out on the Wearing of the Green Day.

EYE CANDY: ZENTANGLES (ZENTANGLE BLOG)

When you have a bit of spare time, take a peak (better yet, a long look) at the Zentangles blog..  It's a wealth of information.  Be forewarned:  Zentangles are worse than chips...no way you stop at one.

TUTORIAL: BUNNY GABLE BOX (CRAFTING THE WEB; THERESA)

Time to start thinking about bunny stuff, and this box may be exactly what you're looking for.  It's a cutie, that's for sure.

Monday, March 7, 2011

TUTORIAL: EMBOSSED METAL TAPE (CREATIVE EXPRESSIONS; CAROL)

Easy, peasy, and cheapo to the max (plus the results are great).  I'm betting you'll like this...

FREE EBOOK: MOD PODGE PROJECTS (FAV CRAFTS)

The twelve projects featured in this eBook are the types of creations that have made Mod Podge a crafter's delight.  Chances are you're more than familiar with this handy supply, but I think you'll find more reasons to appreciate it here.

VIDEO: STAMP KISSING TECHNIQUE (HERO ARTS; KANDIS SMITH)

This technique is an easy way to add a bit of pop and sizzle to a card, plus it also gives you a solid reason (please note that I did not say 'excuse') to purchase two stamps.  Never overlook an opportunity to buy more stamps...

Sunday, March 6, 2011

FREE DOWNLOADS: AIRMAIL LABELS (OH, HELLO, FRIEND; DANNI HONG)

These labels are so neat, and they just might provide that certain little something you're searching for to use on that special creation.  The assortment is varied, and the sizes are too.

TUTORIAL: FELT PIN CUSHION (CARDS BY PAULA; PAULA)

What better flower for a stitching mom than this delightful pin cushion?.  It'll be around long after the green blooms have faded, plus, it'll serve as a constant reminder of your thoughtfulness.  Think that qualifies as a fantastic Mother's Day gift!

TUTORIAL/VIDEO: TREAT BOX (SPLIT COAST STAMPERS; MARIA BELL)

Wonder what it takes to turn a treat box into an Easter box (basket)?  I'll let you decide....but I think this cutie would be a terrific candidate for the challenge.

Saturday, March 5, 2011

TUTORIAL: HAND SCRUB (THE GREENBEANS CRAFTEROLE; GREENBEAN)

This stuff is da bomb!  When you want to get your hands clean and shiny, without removing the top layer of skin, this scrub does the job. Might be just the perfect Mother's Day gift for gardening moms...or non-gardening moms with dirty hands.

TUTORIAL: FRIENDLY PLASTIC CYLINDERS (JUST BANANAS; JANA EWY)

Wait til you see the gorgeous jewelry you can create with Friendly Plastic cylinders.  I promise  you'll be amazed, impressed and anxious to give it a try. 

TUTORIAL: EMBROIDERED PAPER DOILIES (CRESCENDOH; JENNIE

Think how romantic a group of these pretties would be..sweetness and light.  Might work well as decorations for the Mother's Day bash.

Friday, March 4, 2011

TUTORIAL: GLITTERY GEL MEDIUM (GINGERSNAP CREATIONS; SHARON BRISS)

This title really doesn't do the job...this tut is waaaay more than slapping gel medium on canvas.  Fact is, you'll be hard pressed to find a tut that does as good a job as this one does in describing the techniques seen here. If slapping stuff on other stuff is a little out of your box...time to rip off the cover of that box and go to town.  Just remember: there's no right or wrong.

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOADS: SHRINK PLASTIC BRACELETS (COUNTRY LIVING; CATHE HOLDEN)

Thanks to inkjet printable shrink plastic and Cathe's downloads, these bracelets are super easy and super quick. Piece of cake!

TUTORIAL/FREE DOWNLOADS: ST. PATRICK'S DAY PUZZLE (VINTAGE IMAGE CRAFT)

I love block puzzles like this.  They're easy to create, great fun to give (or keep) and always get a ton of  oohs and aahs.

Thursday, March 3, 2011

TUTORIAL: SHADOW BOX CARD (SELMA'S STAMPING CORNER; SELMA)

All sorts of occasions would be fine for this card, but Mother's Day is my first choice.  It's a beautiful card that would be greatly appreciated, regardless of the occasion.  Another feature found here...Selma shows you how to  use those crafty tools we sometimes forget are in our stash..

TUTORIALS/VIDEOS: CROCHET (ART OF CROCHET BY TERESA)

If you're still thinking about getting on the crochet wagon, you won't find a better spot then this one to begin the journey; the videos are beyond outstanding for beginners.   More advanced crocheters (is that a word?) will find several challenging projects.  Good, good, super good...

ULTRA SUPER SITE: CREATE MIXED MEDIA

You'll find it all here...tuts, vids, product reviews, informative articles...all the stuff you have ever wanted to see,  know more about or pondered.  Register to receive the free eBook; you'll be glad you did.

Click ULTRA SUPER SITE (above) to get there.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

FREE DOWNLOADS: SUPERHERO LOLLIPOP (ZAKKA LIFE; JESSICA OKUI)

Let's see...kids party favor or a sweet gift for your very own Super Hero?  However they're used, these lollipops are bound to produce smiles.

TUTORIALS/ FREE DOWNLOADS/LINKS: EXPLOSION BOX (STAMPHENGE; JEAN)

Here's  the know-all to end-all when it comes to Explosion Boxes. I can't imagine there's any info that wasn't included.  Quite nice having all this wonderful info in one tidy spot!

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

TUTORIAL: BALSA WOOD MARKERS (CRESCENDOH; SHONA COLE)

These little darlings are the perfect addition to flowers or plants.  There really isn't an occassion when they wouldn't be suitable...including weddings.

TUTORIAL: ALTERED PATTERNED/DESIGNER PAPERS (DO MORE WITH LESS; DANA SEYMOUR)

Terrific ideas here...super terrific entries included in the challenge too.  No question this qualifies as one terrific tut!  Only problem you'll have is not having a reason to buy more paper.

Click TUTORIAL (above) to see how.

TUTORIAL: STAR WREATH (417 GLUESTICKS; BRANDY)

Here's THE wreath  to use when a celebration is in the works...birthday, new baby, graduation, whenever a shout-out is in order.  Easy as can be and quick as a wink.  Perfection!