From the stash

My craft area recently underwent an overhaul, i.e. cleaning and rearranging.


In the clean up process, I unearthed (yes, they were buried in the great depths of hoarded items) lots of old embellishments. Being the frugal hoarder that I am, I am not one to just "give away" the unwanteds and the unused. Instead, I put out a box to collect these "gems" with the intent to use them on layouts and cards.
As you look at these cards for tonight, know that I know they aren't breathtaking or anything spectacular, but maybe - just maybe - I'll motivate you to look for something old from your stash to use on your next card!


So, with that in mind ... here's what I created tonight:


First of all, cleaning meant that I now have a space for my Sizzix machine to actually be used. Yes, I have an old, red Sizzix machine. I know, I know. I know that the dies will fit through the Cuttlebug. Yes, I know. But, I kept the Sizzix machine and a few shaped dies for my kids. Bekah loves my "cutting machine" and I dare not show her how much easier life is with a Cricut. So, yes - now my work area has dedicated space for the Cricut, the Sizzix, and the Cuttlebug.


So, I pulled out some random paper to inspire me (which happened to be old Carolee's Creations paper from a Halloween layout I did long ago) and it was only natural that I then cut out ghosts using the now-accessible Sizzix machine. Add ribbon and a CTMH stamped sentiment, and I have a card ready to be sent in October.




Materials: Paper by Carolee's Creations, ribbon by Offray, dies by Sizzix (ghosts, photo corner), black ink by CTMH, Say It In Style stamp set by CTMH


As I rifled through this box of collected oldies, I came across summery accents - Fresh Cuts by Rebecca Sower. Don't lie. I know you have some too, somewhere ... or, at least you did have some one day long ago. So, I pulled the Fresh Cuts out, went through my scraps to find papers to coordinate ... and viola I created these. While they aren't masterpieces, I smiled as I made them knowing I was using up some stuff and still making something I didn't mind claiming as something *I* created.




Materials: textured cardstock by Bazzill, Rebecca Sower Fresh Cuts by EKSuccess, black ink by CTMH, Say It In Style stamp set by CTMH


This card, in fact, follows Beate's weekend sketch.



Materials: textured cardstock by Bazzill, Rebecca Sower Fresh Cuts by EKSuccess, black ink by CTMH, Say It In Style and Playful Flourish stamp sets by CTMH, acrylic discs from Michaels, edge distresser by CTMH


WEEKEND PLANS: Before we went on vacation, a friend of ours had a yard sale. Of course, I went to see what treasures she had for sale. I found a few home decor items (a couple frames, a couple mirrors, a birdcage - for decor only, some lights - to use when I make my lightbox), but my big find was an Ikea desk. It's L-shaped, perfect for my crafting area. So, yes - another overhaul will be happening this weekend in the craft room. I envision vertical shelving above the desk (if Chris will cooperate with that idea). So, I'll be cleaning ... again ... to get this room in order, but when it's done ... when it's done ... when it's done ...


Well, let's just say - I can hardly wait!