~ Scrapit Digi ~

Template ~ Tic Tac Toe

2011-09-09T22:33:00.007-07:00

If you have been a follower of my blog a while, you may remember this Tic Tac Toe template I created over a year ago.

I am working on 2 digital scrapbooks for my family and wanted to use this template.

This is a sample of the updated version of the Tic Tac Toe Template.

Happy Scrapping,
Brenda

Free DigiKit from DeliciousScrapShop.com

2011-08-07T15:25:00.006-07:00

From time to time I find some pretty wonderful FREE digital scrapbook elements. I don't know about you, but I like free.

You may not know this, but you can use other digital content in your Artisan and Storybook programs. Attached is a snipit I found this morning of a free digital package. It is too cute. Lots of bling, butterflies ribbons, flowers and some adorable little birdies. What more could a girl want:-)

If you are not sure how to get the free kit into your program, I have a pdf document on my website on the Help/FAQ page called "Manage my Content". The document will walk you through how to get the elements in your program.

If you open the attachment in this email, you will see a sample of freebie kit I found. You can download it for free from http://www.DeliciousScrapShop.com The only thing you need to do is sign up to be a member. You may want to browse around while you are there, you will find more free kits:-)

Here is the direct link to the free kit.

Template ~ Film Strips

2011-07-29T22:01:00.011-07:00

If you have been a visitor to my blog very long. You know I like shapes and love creating some pretty unique templates from those shapes.

You will never guese how I created this template? I used a web ding font to create the film section. Once the film section was created, I made copies of the film section, then joined them together. There are so many fun web ding and wing ding fonts that you can use in your layouts.

Pretty fun layout if I would say so myself:-)

Exciting News ~ I have a new Website!..

2011-07-26T21:03:00.005-07:00

I have some exciting news!..

Some of you may be wondering why I have not posted on my blog in a while. Well, I have a brand new website that I designed. You see, I used to be a web designer in a previous life:-)

I will still be posting updates on this blogspot as I have up to this point. But most of all you will be to download my templates without the issues related to 4shared. My 4shared account got hacked into and a virus attached to it. That is why I took it down so quickly.

I apologize for the wait, but after all everything on my blog is free and will continue to be free on my website.

There is a surprise posted there for anyone who has enjoyed my free templates and instructions up to this point.

Also, please know that your email and name information will be kept confidential for my eyes only.

The website is http://www.scrapitdigi.com

Happy Scrapping Peeps!..

Can’t wait to see you there.

Printing ~ sale with Shutterfly and Snapfish

2011-07-07T08:29:00.021-07:00

Shutterfly and Snapfish is having the most amazing special!..

So if you have been wanting to try printing from either of the
companies or maybe both, now is your chance.

SHUTTERFLY:

All

50%

EU6F-20UB-WSKD-JMAYJV

SHIP30

select custom path

SNAPFISH:

All

50%

HOTSELLERS**

20%

20JUNEBOOKS

SUMMERFS20

Email me for the instructions for uploading your book from Artisan or Storybook to Shutterfly. I will be happy to send them to you.

Also, be sure you read my book review in the prior posting:-)

Happy Scrapping!..

Printing ~ Photo Book Reviews

2011-07-03T15:16:00.019-07:00

As promised I have been doing my own book reviews on printing books. This is what I have so far. Will be posting more as time permits.

FYI: you will want to sign up to these websites. They send coupons and have specials often. I have seen them as much as 50% off of printing.

First let me tell you what Full Bleed means. This is a term used when an image extends completely to all four edges of the finished sheet. With full bleed, one extends the image beyond the trim edge of a sheet to ensure that there is no white space at the edge after the printed page is trimmed to the final size.

~*~ Shutterfly ~*~

Website: www.Shutterfly.com

Book Sizes and Covers: they have lots of choices of sizes and types

Front and Back Cover: full bleed page layout option, works great for loading your designed digital scrapbook layout

Spine: is customizable for a solid color to match your front and back cover or a paper from the available pallet

Pages: when you select the option to fill the page with 1 photo layout, your completed scrapbook layout will fill all the way to the edge, leaving no white edge

Binding: glued only

My Notes: Use custom path, your layout will fit to size of the into the Shutterfly photo book designer. I have printed several books from Shutterfly, the quality is great. My favorite is the padded cover. Got an email from a digital scrapbooker that had problems with these books pages separating from the book binding, due to the binding is only glued not stitched. My daughter in law has used Shutterfly for years and years, with no problems. I have also gotten more emails from digital scrapbookers, saying they are happing with the quality and have no issues with the book pages separating.

~*~ Snapfish ~*~

Website: www.Snapfish.com

Book Sizes and Covers: they have lots of choices of sizes and types

Front Cover: full bleed page layout option, works great for loading your designed digital scrapbook layout

Back Cover: only solid colors available; the only option in full bleed is white

Spine: same solid color as covers

Pages: when you select the option to fill the page with 1 photo layout, your completed scrapbook layout will fill all the way to the edge, leaving no white edge

Binding: glued and stitched

My Notes: The Project Designer is very easy to use, very easy to create the full bleed page to fill with your completed digital layouts. Kerri Powell posted a complete book review on her blog. Snapfish is very limited on the choice of cover designs and colors, they are currently available only in solids; Black, White, Red, Brown, Orange, Blue and polka dot Baby Blue, Baby Pink. Happy Scrapping:-)

For a more extensive details on printing your photo books, you can visit PhotoBookGirl.com

Template ~ Velum with an Arch

2011-06-23T16:19:00.015-07:00

The arch from this layout is a re-post that I had posted a long time ago. I decided to add a layer of velum between the photo mat and the arch. I think it gives more focus to the photo.

This was a scraplift from a layout I found on facebook. Can't remember who posted it and now I can't find the posting on facebook. If this was your original arch idea, please email me. I would be happy to give you credit for the idea.

The flowers in the layout are not included in the template but can be found in the Delight Surfer Girl Digital content from the Creative Memories website.

This template can easily be resized to any size. If you group everything together except the background, you can resize and add to an 8x8 page. Once you have it resized, simply ungroup and edit as normal.

Happy Scrapping:-)

Helpful Hints ~ Making Stitches

2011-06-16T10:15:00.001-07:00

How much fun could you have making your own stitches?

Once you have added your text or maybe even a text path

Right Mouse click to FLATTEN the text

then from the FORMAT menu select FILTERS - then select 3d EDGE; with the following settings; AMOUNT 100, SOFTNESS 100, WIDTH 20, ANGLE 45

then from the FORMAT menu click the down arrow just under SHADOWS - select the CENTER HEAVY drop shadow

Happy Stitching:-)

Template ~ Day by Day

2011-06-14T09:14:00.024-07:00

This is a repost from a prior template, just rotated the design. This template and the prior template is a fun design for tracking an event like a vacation.

Thank you Leslie Beahm for the inspiration to rotate my original template.

For the sample layout I stretch one of my photos across the 2 layouts.

This is the prior posting.

Printing ~ Photo Book Reviews

2011-06-09T07:40:00.004-07:00

If you have been a visitor to my blog. You know how much I am hooked on digital scrapbooking. I was a traditional scrapbooker for a few years. Then was the traditional scrapbook instructor at Michaels for a couple of years.

My sons are all grown now. I am on to the next generation. So sitting down and doing traditional scrapbooking is just out of the question. It takes too much time, too much stuff and too much money. Which at this point in my life I don't enough of any of those.

So then came along digital scrapbooking. I have gotten way more books completed in the 1 1/2 years of digital scrapbooking than the entire time of tradtional scrapbooking and spent way less money.

The challenge for me is to get the book printed. I had printed a couple of books from Creative Memories and a couple from Shutterfly. I will be printing from Snapfish next, thank you Kerri for your review.

I don't know about you, but part of why I digital scrapbook is to not spend money on papers and stickers that I can only use the one time. Between paying for the product and storage of the stuff, it can get out of control. I don't want to make up that savings in printing my digital scrapbooks.

I really like Kerri Powell from Precious Pixels on Snapfish review. If you have a book review, I would really like to see it.

Rochelle sent me this link to a website with tons of review information. Thank you so much Rochelle!..

PhotoBookGirl.com ~ has digital scrapbook reviews, coupons and much more. You will find lots of technical answers about different digital scrapbook printing companies.

Keep in mind, at this point I am not sure if you can upload your digital scrapbook pages created in Artisan or Storybook to the websites listed here. The only ones I know you can upload to Shutterfly and Snapfish. As time permits, I will check out others.

Happy Scrapping:-)

Printing ~ Snapfish Photo Book Review

2011-06-07T14:03:00.012-07:00

Hey Scrapbook Peeps!.. Kerri Powell from Precious Pixels just posted a book review on her Snapfish digital scrapbook!.. Head on over and read it. It is well worth the click of your mouse.

Big Hugs to you Kerri for posting this!..

It is really easy to upload your digital books. Just takes a bit of time and some patience. Having chocolate close by would be a good thing too:-)

Helpful INFORMATION: You can upload your books at any time. Then you can order your book at any time. You can even share a book you have uploaded. Also, I always name my books the size of the book and the theme I am uploading. For example 12x12 Disney World 2007 is the name I gave the book I did for my son and his family.

Template ~ 2011 Calendar

2011-06-01T06:58:00.020-07:00

This template was a scraplift from the Creative Memories project center, Calendar Layout by Leanne Bailey.

Each box in the template is photo ready. If you don't want to use a photo for that day, you can right mouse click on the photo square then select Flatten and fill with paper, then add some embellishments.

There is a link below for each month for 2011, then a master calendar. The master calendar has a photo box in each area of possibilities of days in the month. You can download all of the templates or if you want to make your own calendar, just download the master template.

Q&A

2011-05-26T06:03:00.009-07:00

Thank you all so much for your emails:-) I love hearing from you. I got several emails with suggestions about some great websites that do printing for your digital artwork.

There was a question posted about printing a book designed in Storybook and printing someplace else.

Here are the steps to export your book from Creative Memories Storybook 3.0:

from the HOME menu in the SAVE section

click the SAVE PAGES AS

then select a folder where you want to save the pages

leave the file type as JPG

select all of the pages or some pages option

leave the Resolution at 300 dpi

This will place all of your pages in the folder you selected. Then from that folder you can uplaod the pages to be printed.

SNAPFISH: I personally am going to try Snapfish next. From what I was told, the binding is glued and sewn. The upload program is pretty similar to Shutterfly, very easy to use and upload. It took me about 30 minutes to upload and put the book together in Snapfish. I will let you know what I think after I get the book.

IMPORTANT: with Shutterfly and Snapfish you will need to create your front at back covers just like one of the pages in the book. Neither company offers the option to upload the cover as 1 page. You will need to upload your book cover in 2 pages = 1 page for the front cover + 1 page for the back cover. Then you will select a solid color or a paper from there options for the binding outside color. You will see how this works by using my instructions below.

SHUTTERFLY: At this time, I only have instructions for printing from Shutterfly. All of the websites pretty much work the same though. I will create more instructions as I get time.

Keep the emails, comments and input coming. I love hearing from you!..

Hope this helps:-)

Digital Scrapbook Printing

2011-05-24T20:06:00.009-07:00

Hey Scrapbook Peeps!.. I have gotten a few emails and comments about the differences in the quality of printing your digital scrapbooks.

Personally I have printed books from Creative Memories and Shutterfly. I am very happy with the quality from both companies. My daughter-in-law has printed books from Shutterfly for years and never had any problems with her books lasting. I did get 1 email from a digital scrapbooker that had the pages in her Shutterfly books separate from the binding. I like the quality of Creative Memories books, but the prices are beyond affordable for my budget.

Someone also emailed me that Snapfish prints digital scrapbooks. They let me know that Snapfish glues and sews the binding very similar to the quality of Creative Memories digital scrapbooks. I have not ordered a book from Snapfish as of yet. Snapfish has there books on sale for 50% off until May 30th, 2011. So, I will be ordering one of the same books I ordered from Shutterfly to compare the quality. The way you upload a book to Snapfish is very similar to Shutterfly.

So, with all of that, if you have input on where you are printing books, would love to hear from you.

scrapitdigi@cox.net

Happy Scrapping:-)

Template ~ not a Mask

2011-05-22T12:32:00.017-07:00

This was fun to create. This looks like a mask, but it isn't. If you look in the elements section you will see that I cut the center of a 12x12 paper using the straight edge cutting and blending tool. I was determined to learn how to use the blending tool. Once I cut the 4 strips of paper, I arranged them around the outside to create the frame the same size as the complete layout, then I flattened the 4 papers together to create one fillable element.

The photo was taken at the Grand Tetons. It was a vacation trip of a lifetime for me last year. I stayed in Jackson Hole Wyoming. Got up way before sunrise to drive to the Grand Tetons, my goal was to get a photo as the sun was rising. It must have been a good idea, because there were several photographers there waiting for that perfect picture. If you look real close at the water not even the fish were awake. There was no movement in the water. It was such a peaceful morning.

Credits:

wordart was created by me: it reads … because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! 2 Corinthians 9:14-15; God writes the gospel not in the Bible alone, but on trees and flowers and clouds and stars. ~ Martin Luther ~

background paper: is the Hummingbirg Series, then changed the brightness to -40; square border frame is filled with green paper from Cottage Garden, then changed the brightness to -40

square frame was created by be
overlay: is from the Delight Diva, w/a 3D filter on each

Happy Scrapping:-)

Template ~ Mickey Mouse Collage

2011-05-21T07:35:00.016-07:00

It is a good thing I have more Disney pictures to scrapbook.

One of these days, I will actually make it back to Disney Land myself. I have not been there since I was 18 and that was many years ago. The more I scrapbook my family Disney pictures, the more I am ready to go to Disney Land or Disney World.

This scrapbook layout was a scraplift. I have seen this same idea in lots of scrapbook galleries, not sure who the original idea came from.

Printing ~ from Shutterfly Sale

2011-05-20T15:41:00.007-07:00

Hey scrapbook peeps!.. I don't know about you, but I know about me. I have so many digital scrapbooks completed. The challenge for me is to actually get the digital scrapbooks printed.

I have completed more books the past few months since I found shutterfly, than the almost 2 years of digital scrapbooking. Once I order the book from Shutterfly, the book is in my hands typically within 1 week. If I am happy with the book as is, I can order more very easily. I can't tell you how many books I have printed, then ordered more as gifts.

Best of all you can upload your book at anytime and wait for a sale before you order it. They keep the book on your account for you. Yea, how cool is that. Now I know there are other companies that have the same options as Shutterfly does, but not for the price that Shutterfly does:-) Or have the sales that Shutterfly does.

IMPORTANT: with Shutterfly and Snapfish you will need to create your front at back covers as pages in the book. They don't have the option to upload the cover as 1 page. You will upload them at 2 pages = 1 page for the front cover + 1 page for the back cover. Then you select a solid color or a paper from there options for the binding outside color.

Shutterfly is having the most amazing special!..

The 12x12 books are 50% off!..

Enter these codes in your shopping cart.
for the 50% off -> 5A7J-6TW6-ESAC-68MUKC
for the FREE shipping over $30 order -> SHIP30

You will want to select custom path to design your book.

Email me for the instructions for uploading your book from Artisan to Shutterfly. I will be happy to send them to you.

Happy Scrapping!..

Template ~ Disney

2011-05-17T21:53:00.013-07:00

Good thing I have more Disney pictures to scrapbook. This scrapbook layout will work great if you have a lot of photos you want to use in a page. The wordart Disney World and Disney Land are included in the template.

This was a scraplift from a posting on the "Pixels2Pages's Photos - P2P Designer Blueprints in Use ~ Page by: Janice Gilhooley" on Facebook.

Happy Scrapping:-)

Template ~ Envelopes

2011-05-15T10:23:00.015-07:00

Have you ever used an envelope embellishment for a traditional layout? Maybe tucked a letter or photo into the envelope? I created these envelopes with that thinking in mind.

The envelopes are in a 12x12 template page, but can be grouped and copied to any size layout.

Normally I don’t add the drop shadow to my templates. But in this case I did, because there is some pretty specific direction and thickness that really makes the layers pop.

ROTATE: click to select each element of the envelope -> right mouse click -> select Grouping -> then group -> you can rotate the entire envelope to give it a more interesting look -> you can either leave grouped if you are done filling with papers or ungroup them for further editing

RESIZE: click to select each element of the envelope -> right mouse click -> select Grouping -> then group -> then resize -> you can either leave grouped if you are done filling with papers or ungroup them for further editing.

To MAKE THESE: I cut a square -> rounded the corners -> then cut the square into 4 grids -> added a rectangle piece of paper. That left me with each of the grid pieces with 1 rounded corner. I resized each piece to fit the rectangle -> arranged them in the elements to be layer accordingly -> added a drop shadow for each piece direction.

For this sample I used the "Save the Date" papers and the "Be Mine" embelishments.

Happy Scrapping:-)

Template ~ Window

2011-04-26T14:03:00.017-07:00

Love the new "Simply Said in Moms Words Predesigned pages". Sure wished Creative Memories had the Simply Said in Moms and Dad Words in Digital Kits. I copied some of the elements from the predesigned pages into this sample.

The window part of this template can be moved to any location on your page layout. If you group the window elements together, you can resize as needed. The really fun part of this template is that you slide the photo behind the window panes.

The word art reads, "God writes the gospel not in the Bible alone, but on the trees and flowers and clouds and stars. ~ Martin Luther ~"

I also added a 3d filter, drop shadow and texture to pretty much all of the elements.

Happy Scrapping:-)

Template ~ Easter Blessings

2011-04-17T17:07:00.033-07:00

Easter blessings to you and your families:-) Hope you enjoy this template.

You will find the sun rays and the clouds are all layered. Everything on this template was cut using the available tools, except for the fence. I used the Easter Fun Kit from the Panstoria for the papers, eggs and birds. The fence can be downloaded for free from Tiny Treasures blog.

The scripture in the upper left corner of the left page is one of my favorite scriptures. It reads "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16"

These are the following settings I used:

Tulips, sun and clouds in the below sample were all filled with Gradient color. The above sample was filled with a solid color then I used the small weave surfaces.

The sun Opacity is set to 70, you can change lighter or darker, or leave as is.
Tulips & Grass -> Format -> Filters -> 3D Edge: amount 100, softness 100, width 20, direction -90

You can also change the bright pink strip of paper to an actual ribbon or maybe lace edge.

Center most drop shadow -> dark for the Frames; light for the Tulips and Grass

Panstoria ~ Questions and Answers

2011-04-05T21:15:00.007-07:00

I am sure most or all of you know Laurie Callison?

If not, you will want to check out her posting on Artisan 4.0 Questions and Answers.

She is also partnering up with Panstoria.

She was on the beta testing team with Panstora testing the Artisan 4.0 program. She has had quite a bit of time using Artisan 4.0.

Many of the questions I have been sent answers can be found on her blog. If you are not sold out on why Panstoria's Artisan 4.0 is outstanding, you might want to give it a try after reading Laurie's posting.

LaurieCallisonsVisualVocabulary.blogspot.com

Template ~ Disney Castle

2011-03-27T14:27:00.020-07:00

Now that I finished my grandsons Walt Disney Book, I come up with this layout, gotta love those moments.

My son and his family went to Walt Disney World a few years ago and got a great photo in front of the Castle. So, I imagined re-designing the castle with digital elements. Wa-la here is the finished product.

In case you have not noticed by visiting my blog, I like the cutting tools available in the Digital Scrapbook programs.

Also, pretty much all of the extra touches steps I learned from the Pixels2Pages team. They have done an outstanding job teaching all of us the fun techniques.

Want to know the settings I used?

The tops of the towers are upside down hearts, and then cut the 2 bumps off; then add a 3d filter w/100, 100, 20, angle 90.

Stars are all made by cutting a star, then cutting the centers out with another star shape; then add the 3d filter w/100, 100, 10, angle 45.

I cut the tree trunk free hand, the tree tops are clouds; then add a 3d filter w/100, 100, 20, angle 45.

There is a rolling grass hill in the background. The flags are stretched out triangles w/right down dark drop shadow.

The font is Disney Park, flattened, then 3d filter; 100,100,20, angle 90.

The clouds are with the circle gradient fill with white on the outside and medium blue inside circle fill, the changed the opacity to 60.

Same template with lots of pink and foo-foo:-)

Template ~ Spring is in the Air

2011-03-25T15:17:00.014-07:00

Yea!.. Spring is in the air.

Everything in this template was created using the cutting tools available. The flowers can be replaced with acutal flower elements or any other element. The 1st set of templates is the same basic design as the 2nd set of templates. Would you like to know how to rotate a template?

You will get all 4 templates in each size zip file.

These templates will work in Artisan 4.0 and Storybook 3.0. The font used in the title is called "Beyond Wonderland".

These are the following settings I used for the below sample:

Tulips -> Format -> Filters -> 3D -> amount = 100; softness = 100; width = 20; direction = -90

Top Papers -> Format -> Filters -> 3D -> amount = 100; softness = 100; width =10; direction =90

Bottom Papers -> Format -> Filters -> 3D -> amount = 100; softness = 100; width = 10; direction = -90

Little Flowers at top -> Format -> Filters -> 3D -> amount = 100; softness = 100; width = 10; direction = 45

Hope you enjoy these page templates. Comments are always welcome.

Printing ~ from Shutterfly Sale

2011-03-20T14:41:00.016-07:00

Did you know that you could print your Artisan 4.0 books from Shutterfly? The digital books are on sale for 20% off the regular price and free shipping for orders over $30, until March 23rd. They are pretty cheap even at the regular price.

Step by Step instructions to upload your digital scrapbook to Shutterfly.com.

IMPORTANT: with Shutterfly you will need to create your front at back covers as pages in the book. They don't have the option to upload the cover as 1 page. You will upload them at 2 pages = 1 page for the front cover + 1 page for the back cover. Then you select a solid color or a paper from there options for the binding outside color.

These are 2 books I created in Artisan 4.0 and uploaded to Shutterfly.com. I have 2 more books to upload. Then I can place my order. Yea!..

Artisan ~ Digital Content Packages

2011-03-19T09:13:00.010-07:00

Did you know that you can import any digital content package that has the file extension of .package, such as what you can purchase from the CreativeMemories.com website?

Because the digital content packages have a file extension of ".package", they are compatible with Artisan 4.0 and Storybook 3.0. This document will show you how to import that digital content along with all the page templates from my blog.

You will also be able to download all of the PDF documents I created. They are located in the menu system called PDF Instructions.

Please send me an email requesting the
Importing Digital Packages and Templates

You will find lots more questions and answers on the Panstoria blog -> GetSatisfaction.com/Panstoria

Artisan 4.0 Questions and Answers

2011-03-18T12:09:00.017-07:00

How is everyone doing with the new Artisan 4.0 by Panstoria? Have I ever gotten a lot of emails from digital scrapbookers. As promised I will be posting some of the questions and answers that have been sent to me.

First, I want to thank everyone so much for all of the emails and being so open with your questions. I hope that my responses have been helpful as they have been very open with you in return. You have given me lots to think about. Also wanted to ensure everyone that has emailed me of my commitment that your specific contact details will not, have not been and never will be shared with Creative Memories or Panstoria. I have always been know for having high integrity and will keep all correspondence contact information confidential.

Second, to let everyone know that I don’t work for Creative Memories or Panstoria and am not on either company’s payroll. I am an independent designer and a digital scrapbook fan. My answers are from my knowledge and/or personal opinion based on my experience.

Third, I was a traditional scrapbooker and a traditional scrapbook instructor for a few years, a computer geek for nearly 20 years, with a computer science degree and very knowledgeable about computer software programs.

Now on to the fun stuff. Some of the questions and stories from a wonderful scrapbooker. I have come up with nick names to keep the real names confidential.

Overwhelmed Email:
I'm assuming that you cannot have both programs on the same computer because Panstoria appears to take over. I read that although CM pages will import into Panstoria, that the opposite is not true. I just didn't expect my CM content to be changed within Storybook because I had Panstoria loaded onto my computer.

Can you confirm that this is true? Anyway to have both programs on the same computer? Thanks for any help you can give me on this subject.

Response:
Yes, I am running both programs on my computer. You are correct in some of your points. Artisan 4.0 by Panstoria seems to take over your digital scrapbooking content as well as your storybooks and even page templates. But, it only appears to take it over but doesn't really take it over. The reason it seems to take over is because when you installed the Panstoria program it creates what is called a default relationship with any file extensions that is compatible with Artisan 4.0. The icons have the little white "a" in a blue box. Those files still work the same in Storybook Creator as they did before you installed Artisan.

A side note to my email:
If the template was created in Storybook 3.0 and saved, it will have a .page extension. The .page extension is compatible with Artisan 4.0; so you can import a template created in Storybook 3.0 into Artisan 4.0. All of my templates have the .page extension, so they are compatible with Artisan 4.0 and Storyboook 3.0.

If the template was created in Artisan 4.0; you won't be able to open that template in Storybook 3.0; the stuff created in Artisan 4.0 is not backwards compatible with Storybook 3.0 because the file extension in Artisan 4.0 is .papage file format. Only Artisan can open .papage files. Also, if you import a .page template into Artisan 4.0, then save that template, the file extension will change to .papage and not be compatible with Storybook 3.0.

Photo Mat behind the Paper

2011-03-14T10:14:00.008-07:00

Hey Scrappers!..

You will find a new document posted -> at the top of my blog is a menu system -> select the Instructions link ->then scroll down until you find the document link called “Photo Mat behind the Paper”.

The document will show you the similar steps I used to create the cutout letters in this layout. If you notice in the Elements section, the photo mat is behind the papers. This gives you the option to add a photo and crop if needed.

The original posting with the complete instructions specific for the layout.

Artisan 4.0 ~ Cutting Tools

2011-03-13T16:12:00.010-07:00

If you have been a visitor of my blog and have downloaded my templates, you probably figured out I really am hooked on the tools and cutters in the digital scrapbooking programs. Artisan 4.0 by Panstoria has some of the most fun cutting tools.

If you still using the Free trial version of Artisan 4.0, you may want to purchase the program. I have lots of fun ideas rattling around in my head. There is no compensation for me if you purchase the program, I just love all of the fun tools. Trust me you will too!..

My personal favorite is the Text cutting tools. You can use any font, wingding or webding loaded on your computer to cut from any paper or even photos. Cut words, letters and more. And best of all you don't have to purchase anything to do this. It comes with the program. How much fun can these be?

Yea!.. I love this tool the best!.. At least so far:-)

from the Cut & Fill menu -> in the Cutters -> select Text -> for this sample you want to select the Keep the Shaded Area section
you can either select Cut or Copy

I have been busy making some fun Easter templates:-) Some of them were created with the tools in Artisan 4.0.

Template ~ Circle Layouts

2011-03-11T22:11:00.023-07:00

This is a re-post from a template I created a long time ago. Except I have added the daisy overlay and the scalloped flower circle.

Also notice the 3 little wordart images. I included the elements section so you could see how they are put together. They are separate elements that can be filled with either a solid color to match your papers or fill with papers. You can even make a copy of the rectangles and put in your own wordart.

Once you are all done filling the little wordart images, I added a 3d Filter and a drop shadow to the rectangle and each of the little flowers, butterflies and hearts.

Wordart: If you would like to move the wordart images -> hold your Shift Key down and Click each of the 4 elements -> Right Mouse click -> select Grouping -> then select Group all of the wordart elements together. Then you can move the grouped element where ever you like. Once you are all done moving the element -> Right Mouse click -> select Grouping -> then select Ungroup

Dasies: You can either leave the big daisies on the layout, delete them and add your own flowers or resize them smaller and use them someplace else on the layout.

3D Settings: Format -> Filters -> 3D -> Amount = 100; Softness = 100; Width = 20; Direction = 45

Drop Shadow Settings: Format -> down arrow just under the Shadow option -> Center most Dark option

Template ~ Birthday Cake and Birthday Balloons

2011-02-28T07:07:00.022-07:00

This is a re-do from my very first template I posted on this blog over a year ago, with the balloons added. How much fun does this look?

You can add a big chunky title maybe across the bottom? or split this template into a 2 page layout, put the balloons on one page with a big photo mat and the cake on the other? I really wanted to show how you can take elements from one template and add them to another template. Most of all have fun digi scrapping.

Now remember these templates will work with Artisan 4.0 and Storybook 3.0:-)

You will find more detailed instructions on how to download and import templates; the most common settings I use and more in the tabs in the menu system at the top of my blog just under the title.

and the Winner is

2011-02-26T09:10:00.005-07:00

Good Day Everyone!.. I wanted to thank all of those who entered the drawing for the Artisan digital scrapbook program by Panstoria from my blog.

The lucky winner of the drawing is Fran Smith, Yea Fran!.. Congratulations!..

If you would like to know more about Artisan, you will find lots of information on YouTube.com/Panstoria. Also, feel free to watch this short video to learn more about Artisan by Panstoria!.. It is well worth the couple of minutes to watch. There is a coupon code for 20% off the cost of the program.

Check back on my blog often, as I will be creating templates and more helpful documents to share.

I also want to encourage you to check out Panstoria on Facebook!.. You can be sure there will be lots of fun ideas posted there.

Happy Scrapping everyone!..
Brenda

Template ~ Balloons

2011-02-25T17:28:00.016-07:00

How much fun can this template be? I had the balloons made a long time ago, just didn't know what to put with them. Then the Pixels2pages.net posted the Photo Strip challenge. Then I knew what to put with the balloons.

All of the balloons are filled with a gradient color, then a 3d filter and a center drop shadow. I made all of the balloon strings by inserting a curved path line then adding a 3d filter to the strings. Best of all, the balloons are similar to an overlay. They are layered in front of the background paper. Then are are 3 layers of star overlays. You can fill them with a solid color or paper, add a 3d filter to the stars to really make them pop.

You will find more detailed instructions on how to download and import templates; the most common settings I use and more in the tabs in the menu system at the top of my blog just under the title.

Now remember, you can use these templates in Artisan 4.0 and Storybook 3.0:-)

The photo booth photo strips work great with this layout. The instructions for the film strip can be found on the Pixels2Pages.net website called PHOTO BOOTH Photo Strips – Challenge #43 by Kerrianne Hobbs. Then I cut some stars for brads and filled them in.

Happy Scrapping!..

Drawing for Artisan by Panstoria

2011-02-20T13:06:00.012-07:00

I have some exciting news for all of digital scrapbookers and for anyone interested in becoming a digital scrapbooker.

There is a brand new digital scrapbooking company that just released a windows based digital scrapbooking software, Artisan by Panstoria. Artisan 4.0 officially launch on January 21st. This program has instant and intuitive features that make it easy for a beginner, but can also be used for advanced layouts and design, appealing to more advanced digital scrapbookers. You will also find FREE digital kits available for this new digital program.

I was so excited that I was selected to partner up with Panstoria and create for the Artisan program.

~ drawing details~

The most exciting part of me joining the Panstoria team is that I get to offer this program for $$$FREE$$$ as part of a drawing on my blog.

It is very easy to enter for this drawing. {All 3 are required to be entered in this drawing}

1st leave a comment on this posting, as to why you like digital scrapbooking no "Anonymous" will be counted toward this drawing
2nd be added as a "Follower" of my blog if currently are not a follower
3rd email me with your first and last name; then you will also be added to the email-er list that I will be sending out regularly

** for an extra entry, that means twice the chance for you to win

if you have a blog; add a link from your blog to my blog in the "Blogs I follow" section; then email me at scrapitdigi@cox.net when it is posted along with your first and last name along with a link to your blog

For the winner: you will get a link to download your FREE copy of the program; along with the activation code provided for your Panstoria program by Artisan; all of my current templates and freebies and instructions will be made available for you to get started; along with my full support with questions along the way. This drawing closes at midnight Arizona USA time, Friday February 25th.

I will be using random.org to determine the winner. I will be contacting the winner via email and also posting the winner on my blog the next morning.

You may also want to check out more about this software program on YouTube.com/Panstoria. There's a coupon code at the end for 20% off the cost of the software.

I also want to encourage you to check out Panstoria on Facebook!.. You can be sure there will be lots of fun ideas posted there.

Happy Scrapping everyone!.. and Good Luck!..

Template ~ Wrought Iron

2011-02-19T00:10:00.031-07:00

This was a design that was inspired by Janet from Facebook. She was at the hairdresser and saw a piece of wrought iron artwork. Took a photo of it and emailed it to me. Who would have thought of making this as a template. Her and I put our heads together and came up with this template.

It is a good lesson for all of us scrapbookers to look our around for ideas for page designs.

You will find more detailed instructions on how to download and import templates; the most common settings I use and more in the tabs in the menu system at the top of my blog just under the title.

The original idea is from Janet and was re-created with her permission.
Check out the posting on Facebook.com.

Thank you Janet for such a great idea!..

Happy Valentine's Day!..

2011-02-14T14:35:00.012-07:00

One of the ladies at my church shared with me that she was not looking forward to Valentine's Day a couple of weeks ago. She said because she didn't have a sweetheart. It broke my heart to hear that she felt sad about Valentine's Day. That conversation was on my mind for the past couple of weeks. My heart was tugging at this for people who don't have that special someone in their life.

There were a few nights that I woke me up in the middle of the night with the thoughts of that conversation. I knew that I needed to make something special for the ladies I serve with at church, but didn't know what. I ordered something from the Christian book store for each of them that I thought they would like. But, a few days later the store let me know it would not be in until the end of March. I thought, now what am I to do.

This past Friday night this story was still on my heart. I stayed up very late that night, until around 3am, struggling with what to do. Well Saturday morning God woke me up around 8:15am with what to do. It took me maybe 20 minutes to put this letter together. There is no way these words are from me, this was totally inspired by God. I also knew that I didn't want to single her out. I knew that she and the other ladies needed reassurance that God was there for them and He loved them more than they knew.

Here is the letter:
Some of us have Sweethearts and some of us don’t. But He really wants you to know that he longs to be the love of your life. He longs for you to know how much you are loved and are not alone in this world.

As you look at Valentine's Day cards you will see some that are silly, some about friendship and some mushy cards about love. There is no one in the world that loves you more than God does? He shows you each and every day how much He loves you.
You woke up this morning.

Every breath is from God; because He loves you…
Every sunrise and every sunset is from God; because He loves you…
Every meal you eat is from God; because He loves you…
Every hug or kiss you get is from God; because He loves you…

Scriptural Valentine's:
I have loved you with a love that lasts forever. I have kept on loving you with faithful love.
Jeremiah 31:3

… Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Luke 12:7

I will be glad and full of joy because you love me. You saw that I was hurting. You took note of my great pain.
Psalms 31:7

Come to me, all of you who are tired and are carrying heavy loads. I will give you rest. Become my servants and learn from me. I am gentle and free of pride. You will find rest for your souls. Serving me is easy, and my load is light."
Matthew 11:28-30

But Lord, you are a God who is tender and kind. You are gracious. You are slow to get angry. You are faithful and full of love.
Psalm 86:15

You won’t find any Valentine's that show more love to you that the love you will find in the Bible. A box of sweets or flowers will not last forever. They make you feel warn and loved inside. But dear lady, it is only for a short time you have that feeling. No one on earth will ever love you more than your Heavenly Father does.

Put these words in your heart box: God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son. Anyone who believes in him will not die but will have eternal life.
John 3:16

Many blessings to you dear lady this Valentine's Day!..
Your sister in Christ, Brenda

My prayer is that you all know how much our Heavenly Father loves and cares for you.

Having a sweetheart to go through life is wonderful, but by no means a replacement for God’s love.

May God Bless you and your loved ones!...

Template ~ Beauty of a Girl

2011-02-11T21:24:00.029-07:00

This template has a lot of cutting techniques used.

The photo mats are actually behind 2 layers of papers with the rectangle sections cut out. Each section is slightly smaller in the back paper. This gives a double photo mat look. The journaling is on solid white papers with an opacity set to 50%, which gives the look of sheer vellum.

Wordart is my favorite to create. The layout on the right page reads: "the beauty of a girl can not be mimicked, fabricated or created by human means, it only occurs naturally". The wordart can be filled with a solid color or even papers.

I added a 3d filter to all of the wordart and embelishments. Then added a center dark shadow on pretty much everything except the background paper.

You will find more detailed instructions on how to download and import templates; the most common settings I use and more in the tabs in the menu system at the top of my blog just under the title.
This is the finished layouts using the Hummingbird package.

Happy Scrapping:-)

General CM Storybook Instructions

2011-02-10T17:47:00.008-07:00

Good Day Scrappers!..

I am in the process of making some changes to my blog. First I am in the process updating all of my instructions into PDF documents. That way you can download the PDF document, print it and keep it close for reference. You wont have to be connected to the internet when you are working through my instructions or flip back and forth between the internet and your CM program.

I have 12 documents created so far. Just need to convert them to PDF. I will be posting the rest as I finish them up. They will all be posted in the "INSTRUCTIONS" tab in the menu system, just under the title section at the top of my blog. That way if you miss a blog posting, you wont have to hunt for the documents through postings.

If you are not sure how to download from 4shared.com, you will find the instructions in my menu system just under the title.

Would love to hear your input if you like the PDF document idea:-)

Template ~ Family is a circle of Love

2011-01-30T19:44:00.022-07:00

This is the 2nd layout I am using the Family journal circle. I liked it so much, just had to use it again:-)

The circle journaling reads, "a family is a circle of love", then there are little cutout hearts between each section.

I used the recipe digital kit for the entire 1st layout. I think this is the first time I have not used more than 1 digital kit on a layout. The recipe kit is one of my favorite kits. I can using it for so many types of layouts. I ended up purchasing the Recipe Book 12x12 and the Recipe Book Digital kit because each one has elements included that the other doesn't.

You will find more detailed instructions on how to download and import templates; the most common settings I use and more in the tabs in the menu system at the top of my blog just under the title.

FREE is good ~ right?

2011-01-26T20:44:00.015-07:00

Did you know that you can use other digital elements in your Creative Memories Storybook Creator program?

I don't know about you, but it is awesome when I find something that is free for digital scrapbooking and it is something I like.

Check this out -> ComputerScrapbook <- then click on the FREE STUFF link.

If you are not sure how to get the FREE stuff into your Creative Memories program, from the menu system on this blog select "Manage my Content" for the complete instructions.

but FIRST: This screen shot shows how I setup my folders for the free'bies from the Computer Scrapbook site. I usually name my folder the name of the website where I got the elements. It helps me keep my elements sorted as well as remember where I got the elements.

Here is my Valentines template with the Funky Floral Papers and the flowers are from Pacific Coast Dreams. Keep in mind, you don't have to use traditional colors for holiday layouts.

Thank you all for the sweet comments!.. Gotta take care of my scrapbook peeps!..

Helpful Hints ~ Converting/Rotating Templates

2011-01-18T09:53:00.007-07:00

Do you have a page layout that you like but it is not in the size you are wanting to scrapbook it in? These are the steps that I use to convert a template from one size to another. There may be other ways to convert templates, but this is what works for me.

I have various template storybooks. They are called 12x12 Templates, 11x8.5 Templates, 8x8 Templates, etc.

to create a "12x12 Templates" blank storybook:

from the NEW option
select a project type -> Pageprint 12x12
select a template -> Blank
name the project 12x12 Templates

For example I want to convert a template from 12x12 to 11x8.5

General Instructions:

select MULTIPLE ELEMENTS at 1 time -> with your background locked and any other elements you don't want selected locked -> press the "CTRL + A" keys at the same time
GROUP elements -> with all of the elements selected -> RIGHT mouse click -> select GROUPING -> then select GROUP " ->do the oposite to UN-GROUP"

open your 12x12 Template Storybook:

open your template storybook -> select the template page you want to copy -> LOCK the BACKGROUND and ONLY the background
with no elements selected press the "Ctrl + A" key -> GROUP all of the elements -> COPY all of the elements as a GROUP

open your 11x8.5 Template Storybook:

on a blank white page -> leave the WHITE background LOCKED -> RIGHT Mouse click -> select PASTE
all of the elements should still be GROUPed -> don't UNGROUP them yet
click the GROUPed element -> RESIZE all of the elements to fit the page
when you are all done resizing -> MOVE the grouping around as needed -> right mouse click to UNGROUP

if you would like to rotate the entire template

LOCK the background paper
press the CTRL + A to select all of the elements
from the ARRANGE menu -> in the ROTATE area -> click the ROTATION of your choice
when you are all done ROTATING the elements -> UNGROUP them
if there is a photo mat in the template -> you will need to rotate the photo mat individually to the corrected orientation -> or when you place the photos in the mat -> they will be rotated -> you may need to resize the mat

When you are ready to use the template in a storybook you are working on, just import the template into that storybook. You will then always have the original template as the original was.

You will find more detailed instructions on how to download and import templates; the most common settings I use and more in the tabs in the menu system at the top of my blog just under the title.

Template ~ Valentines

2011-01-16T10:22:00.016-07:00

Can you believe Valentines Day is right around the corner? I went into a store the other day and there was Valentines candies, cards and decorations out already. The older I get, the faster time goes.

Below is a 2 page template I created using the same technique in the prior entry by cutting out hearts.

Notice I have the pieces of the envelope outlined in the elements section. I cut the envelope apart then tucked a photo mat inside, then added the little hearts. The envelope is not included in the template, because it is a purchased element.

Please keep in mind, the papers and embelishments are not included in this template. Hopefully you have this digi package in your stash, it seems Creative Memories discontinued it. I found that out after I had this layout created.

If you don't have the ribbon or wordart from the Creative Memories free'bies, email me and I will be happy to send it to you.

Credits:
Background Paper and Embellishments ~ Be Mine Digital Additions {no longer available}
Heart Paper ~ Cottage Garden {changed the color to pink }
Ribbon and Love wordart ~ CM freebies

You will find more detailed instructions on how to download and import templates; the most common settings I use and more in the tabs in the menu system at the top of my blog just under the title.

Template ~ Christmas 4

2011-01-15T00:43:00.007-07:00

From time to time I find a layout on the internet I really like. Then I try to figure out how to reverse engineer the design. Pulling things apart visually and putting them visually back together has always been something I have enjoyed doing and am pretty good at:-)

Just about the same day I found this layout on Scrapbook.com, then the Pixels2Pages.net posted the instructions to create the bauble topper and chain.

This time I won't be posting the template for this layout. It was really pretty easy to create, just took a little time. Give it a try:-) I promise, you will learn something new along the way. If you don't have the stitching from the CM free'bies, email me I will be happy to send it to you.

Thank you so much Pixels2Pages.net for the instructions how to create Christmas Baubles.

2 layered papers:

add a piece of paper 11x11
to round the corners -> click on the paper to select it -> from the CUT & FILL menu -> in the CUTTERS section -> click the ARROW just under the MORE option
select the corner in the screen shot below -> select Size of Corner = 10

make a copy of the paper -> RIGHT MOUSE click to change the size to 10.5 x 10.5
add the stitching from the CM Free'bies
select the STITCHING and the FRONT cut paper -> from the ARRANGE -> click SAME SIZE option

center all layers of papers:

click to select each of the 2 PAPERS you just cut; the STITCHING; and the BACKGROUND paper
from the ARRANGE -> click the 2 options in the print screen below; this will center all layers up

lock the BACKGROUND; the 2 PAPERS you cut; and the STITCHING; this will keep you from accidently moving something around

Making the ORNAMENTS

cutting the CIRCLE matting:

from the CONTENT -> select SHAPES -> select PACKAGE = Commercial -> GEOMETRIC -> scroll down until you find the ELLIPSE "circle" -> click the USE ORIGINAL ASPECT RATIO -> make the circle big enough to work with
at this point it doesn't matter what color or what size the circle is
click on the CIRCLE in the elements to select it -> from the CUT & FILL menu -> in the CUTTERS -> select ELLIPSE
you will want the CIRCLE shape to fit just inside the circle you just cut -> click the MAKE CIRCLE option when you are done resizing
you also may need to select INVERT THE SHADED AREA -> you want it to look similar to this screen shot below
click the ERASE THE SHADED AREA
resize the circle as need -> then RIGHT MOUSE click the circle -> select FLATTEN

adding the PHOTO element:

add the photo mat -> from the INSERT menu -> select EMPTY FRAME
change the photo mat to a circle -> from the FORMAT PHOTO menu -> in the FRAMES section -> select MAT -> select CIRCLE from the CUTOUT option -> click the CHANGE MAT FILL option -> click SELECT A COLOR -> change the OPACITY = 0
resize the mat to fit behind the ORNAMENT -> then move the MAT just under the ORNAMENT in the elements and it will go behind the circle mat

finishing up the ORNAMENT

go to the Pixels2Pages.net site to create the chain and ornament topper -> click here to go to the SHAPES, SHAPES, SHAPES Challenge #37 by Janice Gilhooley
once you have the all the ELEMENTs of the ornament -> from the ARRANGE menu -> click the CENTER VERTICALY option
with all the ornament ELEMENT pieces arranged -> select them all -> RIGHT MOUSE click -> from the GROUPING -> select GROUP
make as many copies of the ORNAMENT as you need
once you are all done making copies and arrange the ornaments -> with the ORNAMENT selected -> RIGHT MOUSE click -> select GROUPING -> then select UNGROUP

Finish off with adding papers, embelishments and photos:-) Also, be sure you check out my FUN OPTIONS in the menu system at the top of my blog just under the heading. You will find the instructions in there to make the bling for the chain.

Credits:
layout design by One Little Bird
Creative Memories Frost digital kit
tree bottom border and stitching was from the CM freebies
font is Schlimeyer Book & Christmas Card

1 Year ago today Haiti's world was changed

2011-01-12T07:50:00.013-07:00

It was 1 year ago that the devastating earthquake hit Haiti. There are so many heartbreaking stories coming out of that tragedy. There are also a lot of heartwarming stories coming out of that tragedy.

If you are a prayerful person, please keep the Haitian people in your prayers. God has something amazing in mind for the people of Haiti and the country. There have been so many Haitian children adopted and brought to other countries. I trust that those children take the love for their country with them. Maybe someday they will be the generation that makes the biggest change in Haiti by going back and pouring back what they have learned.

Haiti was probably the poorest country in the world before the earthquake. You know what, they are still probably the poorest country in the world after the earthquake. But now we know where Haiti is because of the earthquake.

Also, if you claim to be a Christian, what is going on in Haiti should bother you. If you see a homeless person begging for food, money or a job as a Christian that should bother you. If you have a roof over your head and food in your belly you are rich in the world's eyes. Remember we are all God's children. Not just the people who have.

One of my favorite’s scriptures that came to mind is Jeremiah 29:11-13:
11 "I know the plans I have for you," announces the Lord. "I want you to enjoy success. I do not plan to harm you. I will give you hope for the years to come. 12 Then you will call out to me. You will come and pray to me. And I will listen to you. 13 When you look for me with all your heart, you will find me.

Michael W. Smith and crew put this inspiring song together.
It is well worth the click of your mouse and time to listen.

Template ~ Christmas 3

2011-01-10T18:52:00.018-07:00

How much fun was this Christmas Tree to make. This was a challenge from the Pixels2pages.net site called SHAPES, SHAPES, SHAPES Challenge #37 by Janice Gilhooley. Be sure you check this fun challenge out.

You can't really tell from looking at the finished Christmas Tree, but the tree is cut from using layered hearts, the free'bie background and swirl border from the CM site. I will be posting the instructions this weekend.

You will find more detailed instructions on how to download and import templates; the most common settings I use and more in the tabs in the menu system at the top of my blog just under the title.

CM Free'bies

2011-01-02T12:16:00.010-07:00

There sure has been a lot of hub bub about Creative Memories and the Pixels2Pages.net. Seems that Creative Memories has restricted the Pixels2Pages.net site from sharing templates and elements. Not sure how this impacts other CM Consultants that are sharing templates and images.

From everything that I know this is only a restriction for Creative Memories consultants, which I am not. In the past I had gotten an email from the corporate CM office requesting me not to post or share my templates or images. I let them know at that time to provide documentation that can support that restriction. They could only provide the documentation for consultants, which I am not.

I understand that Creative Memories wants us to purchase the click and fill packages. To me if Creative Memories would focus on the training piece of the digital business, there digital sales would go through the roof. I wonder how many books would have been ordered if not for the Pixie’s website?

Let’s face it, Creative Memories consultants are not in this for the money. They could not retire on what they make? They could not make a car payment on what they make? They could probably buy a few groceries or get some gas in there car. They probably spend anything they earn back in CM product. Consultants are in it for the discounts and to share there knowledge.

Digital scrapbooking with Creative Memories is by far the best Storybook Creator program on the market. It is easy to use/create, not too expensive for the programs or finished products. But lacks in training and ideas.

So glad to see the Pixels2Pages.net group is staying around and have some great ideas to share with all of us. Big hugs to you Pixie's!..

With all that being said, I will keep creating and posting my free’bies and instructions.

Happy Scrapping!..

Helpful Hints ~ Make a Lacy Star

2010-12-29T16:53:00.033-07:00

Scrappers ~ as promised here are the instructions how I make the lacy stars in my Christmas layouts. You can also use these instruction up to adding the lacy overlay for making photo mats.

Making the Star:

from the CONTENT -> select the SHAPES -> select the GEOMETRIC package - > select STAR 5 -> check the box for "use original aspect ratio"
make a copy of the STAR you just cut
change the color of the copied STAR "at this point the color doesn't matter as long as it is a very different color; for this example my original back star is black and my copied front star is pink"

with both STARS selected -> from the ARRANGE -> in the ALIGNMENT -> click the CENTER VERTICAL and then CENTER HORIZONTAL
at this point you will only be able to see the star in the front
with only the FRONT PINK STAR selected -> from the FORMAT -> select FILTERS -> option SOFTEN EDGE -> change the SOFTNESS = 25
with both the BLACK Star and PINK Star selected -> right mouse click -> select FLATTEN
with the flattened STAR selected -> from the CUT & FILL -> select WAND -> click in the center of the STAR -> select ERASE SELECTED AREA "this will erase the pink leaving an outlined star"
with the flattened STAR selected -> from the CUT & FILL -> select WAND -> click in the center of the STAR -> select ERASE SELECTED AREA "this will erase the pink leaving an outlined star"

at this point you can fill the star with any color or paper of your choice, for this example fill with black

To make a Lacy center:

arrange an overlay over the star -> position the overlay to get the desired look inside the STAR
with only the overlay selected -> from the CUT & FILL -> select SHAPES -> select the STAR you selected last time -> arrange the cutting lines to the same position as your outlined STAR -> select "use original aspect ratio" you may need to click the "use original option a couple of times" depending on how many times you resize the star-> then you may need to select "invert the shaded area"
you want the shaded area to NOT be covering the center of the star

once you have everything lined up -> then select "erase the shaded area"
arrange the OVERLAY to match up with the STAR with both the OVERLAY and STAR selected -> RIGHT MOUSE click -> select FLATTEN at this point you can fill the star with a solid color or paper

Add a 3D Edge and Glitter look:

to add a 3D Edge -> from the FORMAT menu -> select FILTERS -> select option 3D -> amount =100; softness = 100; width = 10 to 50; direction = 45
add GLITTER -> from the FORMAT -> select SURFACES -> select the first option BLOCK -> change the AMPLIFICATION =10 -> do this 2 to 4 times depending on the look you want
add a DROP SHADOW -> from the FORMAT - SHADOWS options

Happy Scrapping:-)

Helpful Hints ~ Cutting a Decorative Edge

2010-12-27T10:41:00.004-07:00

Would you like to know how to make a decorative edge? This may take a bit of practice. It took me a while to learn how and what direction to make the cuts, what to select for options. If you don't get it on the first try, do it again:-)

Cutting the Edge:

with the element selected -> from the CUT & FILL menu option -> click the little arrow just under the STRAIGHT -> select SHAPED EDGE
to ROTATE the cutting direction -> click the GREEN CIRCLE ARROWS -> move with your mouse to rotate
to MOVE the entire cutting line up or down -> click the YELLOW PLUS in the center
select your SHAPE
to FLIP HORIZONTAL or FLIP VERTICAL to have the cuts the direction you need
to WIDEN or NARROW the design -> click the TOP DASHED line and move until you get the desired look
you may need to ZOOM in to be sure your design lines up how you expect it to
select CUT AROUND THE SHADED AREA
at this point you can move elements as needed and delete the pieces of paper you don't need

To make the tree in the prior posting, I cut a triangle in 4 sections, these used the above steps on each section.

Would love to hear if you are able to work through these instructions:-)

Template ~ Christmas 2

2010-12-25T22:39:00.044-07:00

Christmas is my favorite time of year. My Christmas Gift to you is a new template:-)

The verse I selected for this template is included:
... because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! 2 Corinthians 9:14-15

The package I used for these layouts is from the Earthy Serenty package. Totally non-tradtional Christmas papers, but I think it works nicely with this layout. Along with the snowflakes from the CM freebies.

Fill the snowflakes with your color choice, select a color to match your paper. Then glitter'ized them. I also added a drop shadow to pretty much everything except the photo mats.

Glitter Effect:

From the Format -> Surfaces -> first option Block -> Amplification = 10; do this 2 to 4 times; depending on the look you want

Do thes same steps for the Frames, top Star Border and WordArt

for the Tree only 1 or 2 times for the desired effect

3D Filter:

from the FORMAT -> FILTERS -> 3d with the following settings
Amount = 100; Softness = 100; Width = 20; Direction 45

Template ~ Lattice

2010-12-15T20:13:00.029-07:00

This layout is a scraplift from Karen Stockman Hobgood post on facebook. You have to log into facebook and check hers out. She used a Disney theme for her layout. It is adorable. Be sure to leave kuddos for her when you peek at her layout:-)

I am working on my son and his bride’s wedding book and wanted to use this layout in the book. Thought I would share these templates with all of you.
Hope you like my version of the layout. Happy scrapping:-)

Music is all around us

2010-12-03T07:12:00.008-07:00

You may have heard about the singers that broke out in song in a busy mall food court. But did you see the video? Was this ever an amazing way for God to show how much He loves us.

I just can not imagine being there when this occurred. I would have been praying for all the people there, that they know how much Jesus loves them.

Just past the 1/2 way mark there is a young man with a sweet smile, he looks like he may have been looking for answers or maybe confirmation of existence. Maybe he got some of his answers that day.

Here is the video clip -> Flash Mob Singers

He has planted the seeds, now it is up to us to water them.

Template ~ Christmas 1

2010-12-01T18:51:00.041-07:00

Was this ever a fun template to make. The left layout original design is by Beggahuna's sketch at Scrapbook.com. She is an amazing scrapbooker. I have used some of her designs for my traditional scrapbook layouts, this is the first I have used for a Digital layout.

All of the elements were cut using my Creative Memories Storybook Creator program along with some fun surfaces and filters.

fill the Background, Christmas Trees, Stars, Flowers and Strips with your choice of Papers. The flowers can be replaced with flowers from your favorite digital package. I put them on the layout as a place holder for an embelishment.

for GLITTER elements:

hold the shift key while selecting each of these elements -> the Swirls, Frames, Tree Overlays, Star Overlays and Wordart -> fill all with solid WHITE for SILVER or fill all with GOLD

with the elements still selected -> from the FORMAT -> SURFACES -> 1st option BLOCK -> set the AMPLIFICATION to 10 -> ACCEPT -> do this 4 times

for this piece you will have to do each element 1 at a time -> from the FORMAT -> FILTERS - > 3D -> Amount = 100, Softness = 100, Width = 20, Direction = 45

for a DROP SHADOW:

with no elements selected -> press the Ctrl key + A -> from the FORMAT -> down arrow under SHADOW -> select the most center option for LIGHT SHADOWS

RECIPE:
* Christmas Trees are cut triangles
* Flowers and Stars and Square Frames were cut from the shapes
* Star Strings were created with a straight line
* Trees and Stars have a lace overlay which was cut from the CM freebie to size of shape
* Glitter was added by using the Format -> Surfaces -> Amplification to 10 -> 4 times
* Trees, Stars, Flowers and Strips of paper were all filled with gradient option
* Christmas Wordart is Christmas Card font
* 2010 Wordart is Santas Big Secret font
* 3D filter was added to all Glitter Overlays and Wordart

Blessings are all around ~ open your eyes

2010-11-25T10:22:00.010-07:00

Had one of the best days yesterday!..

My mom and I went to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon yesterday to see the Sky Walk and of course walk on it:-) I had been to the South Rim, the North Rim and the East Rim, now to the West Rim.

It started out to be a beautiful day, then it started to sleet, then that sleet turned into snow. After a few hours of walking around the sites the sun came out. It was such a great opportunity to met and talk with families from India, Poland, France, Japan, lots from all over the US and a wonderful family from a Tribe in Taos New Mexico who lost the mother a while back.

On the way home I was flipping through the radio stations to find a station that had music both my mom and I would enjoy. I found an oldies station. It was so funny as some of the songs were playing, I could remember most of the words. Some of the songs were from the Dean Martin ~ Andy Williams days. Some of the songs where from when I was a teenager. But I still knew lots of the words to the songs regardless of the era the music came from.

I knew the words because I had spent so much time listening to music growing up. When I was really little, you would find me most of the playing my mom's LP's.

I suppose the same holds true with God's word. The more time I spend reading my Bible and taking Bible study classes, the more familar the words are to me. When I really need to hear from God, those words will be stored in my heart ready to be used from my memory for any of life's situations.

God's word is music to my ears. Blessings to you and your family and friends this Christmas Season.

Template ~ Moments

2010-11-22T15:20:00.033-07:00

So many times I put a page together and think I am all done. Then for some layouts I feel like I should share them. But funny thing is, from time to time I think of a change I need to make. You will see the template on the left in a prior posting:-) I just needed to create a template to match.

This is the pages I used in my son and his bride's wedding book and thought I would share the design. I really liked how the the twinkle stars and wordart turned out on these pages. You can see how I used the twinkle stars behind the arch page a few blog posts back. Those twinkle stars have become my favorite embelishment for my son and his bride's wedding book.

the quotes say:
Right -> each photgraph is a story captured in a single moment
Left -> dream as if you will live forever; live as if you will die today; love like there is no tomorrow; dance like there is no one watching

font: Cambria and Lainie Day SH for the large wordart
Happy Scrapping:-)

Template ~ United States Flag

2010-11-14T10:05:00.029-07:00

This past week we celebrated Veteran's Day in the United States.

My prayers go with all soldiers, for those who have paid the ultimate price, for those currently serving, for those that have served, for the families and for those yet to serve. My hope is that you know the love of our Lord and Savior, for only there you will find complete peace and love.

Did you know? The United States of America flag consists of 13 equal horizontal stripes of red alternating with white, with a blue rectangle bearing 50 small, white, 5 pointed stars arranged in 9 offset horizontal rows of 6 stars alternating with rows of 5 stars. The 50 stars on the flag represent the 50 states and the 13 stripes represent the original thirteen colonies that rebelled against the British monarchy and became the first states in the Union.

Once you download the template, you can add more picture mats by simply copying and pasting what is included, remove picture mats, add a journaling box, what ever you like.

The letters in the print screen above can be downloaded for FREE from freeDigitalScrapbooking.com. Once you are on the site, select "ALPHABETS". Download them to your computer and import them into your creative memories program. If you are not sure how to get the alphabets into your Creative Memories program, from my menu bar select "Manage my Content". You will find the instructions there.

Template ~ Moments

2010-11-06T01:45:00.024-07:00

This is a template I created to use in my son and his bride's wedding album. The picture that will go in this layout my son is kissing his bride on the forehead during the first dance.

Can you tell I am just loving creating wordart? I think this wordart and the glitter stars make this page. You can leave the 3 smaller picture frames on or take them off. Either way, this is a great layout for those special photos:-)

Would love to hear if you like this template?

Template ~ Year in Review

2010-10-31T20:34:00.026-07:00

This layout would work great for some of these years’ favorite pictures. You may need to resize the frames to work with your pictures, add a few frames or remove a few.

The paper is from Creative Memories Hummingbird Series Digital Kit. Just love the papers that come in that kit. The clock face is from the CM freebies. I created the wordart.

You can't really tell so much from this screen shot, but I put a 3D filter on all of the wordart. Can you tell by looking at my blog that I love creating wordart? Also really like using the 3D filter feature in Creative Memories. The two together are my favorite:-)

Happy Scrapping:-)

Image ~ Arch

2010-10-07T19:46:00.017-07:00

This was a scraplift from an layout I found on facebook. Can't remember who posted it and now I can't find the posting on facebook. If this was your original arch idea, please let me know. I want to give you credit for the design.

There is a slight difference in the arch images. You will notice the differences when you click to download them. These were made for using in a 12x12 layouts, but could easily be re-sized for other layout sizes.

After you have filled the arch with your choice of papers I added the following touches.

3D filter -> from the FORMAT -> Effects - Filters-> Amount = 100; Softness = 100; Width = 20; Direction 90

Drop Shadow -> from the FORMAT -> Shadow click the down arrow -> select the LIGHT SHADOWS most center option

yea, I put the circle on the couple's face on purpose:-)

Template ~ Family Tree & Family House

2010-09-30T20:43:00.023-07:00

This is a repost from a prior template project I had posted with a few additions.

I added the Family House template to match up with the Family Tree template in the 11x8.5 size. Along with the fence and the tire swing are additions to my template. The fence and tire swing images can be found on Charity's blog "Together Forever" kit as a free download. Be sure you take a look around while you are there.

I filled the tree top and tree truck with papers from the Cottage Garden package from Creative Memories. The rest of the detailed instructions and background paper can all be found on the prior posting -> CM Template - Family Tree

You can put the Family Tree page on the right or the left. You can also put the Family House on the right or left. The hills match up to either side:-)

WordArt ~ Designs

2010-09-14T21:43:00.038-07:00

You can’t really tell from looking at this layout that the photo in the letters is really 1 photo. If you look at the Elements you will see that the photo is the 2nd element from the bottom. I actually cut the letters out of paper then slid the photo behind.

Download the template from the prior entry.

Background:

Use the screen shot below as a guide to create this layout.
You will need to add a full size piece of paper by SELECTING the paper -> drag it over to the layout.
With all paper layers selected -> from the ARRANGE -> ALIGNMENT -> click the CENTER VERTICALLY then CENTER HORIZONTALLY. My paper is filled with solid brown.
Arrange the papers in the order based on the screen shot below.
At this point you will want to lock down the 4 pieces of paper. The 1st one is the white background paper.

Wordart:

From the INSERT menu add your text either as individual letters, 1 letter per text box. You will want to select a chunky font for this project. Make each letter the largest size you can make them and a solid color.
Right mouse click and select FLATTEN on each individual letter.
At this point you will want to arrange the letters and re-size them as needed. If you want to stretch the letters taller without making them wider -> RIGHT MOUSE click -> select ASPECT RATIO -> select UNLOCK ASPECT RATIO.
If you select all of your letters by holding the SHIFT key when clicking each of them, you can resize them all at one time.
You can also put ½ the letters on 1 page and the other ½ on another page, making a 2 page layout.

Copy the Layout:

You may want to make a copy of this page before continuing on. That way if you make a mistake or want to make a change you don’t have to start from the beginning. In the PAGES work area -> RIGHT MOUSE click on the layout then select "DUPLICATE THIS PAGE".

Flattening:

UNLOCK the brown paper. Hold the SHIFT KEY -> click on the BROWN PAPER -> click EACH of the LETTERS -> RIGHT MOUSE click and select FLATTEN. This makes the brown paper and letters 1 image.

Cutting the Letters:

From the CUT & FILL menu -> select CUTTERS -> WAND -> while holding your shift key click in the center of each letter.
From the MAGIC WAND menu option -> select ERASE the selected area.

Finishing up:

from here you can fill the paper with a design-> select the paper you cut the letters out of -> find the paper in your CONTENT you want to use -> right mouse click the paper -> select FILL SELECTED SHAPE.
then add a photo mat for all of the letters or 1 photo mat for each letter.

3D Filter and Drop Shadow:

from the FORMAT -> FILTERS -> 3d with the following settings
Amount = 100; Softness = 100; Width = 30; Direction 90 or -90
from the FORMAT -> arrow just under the “Shadow” -> select the very most center option in the HEAVY section.

Template ~ Having Fun

2010-09-12T11:39:00.019-07:00

How much fun can this page be. The entire page was created using the cutting shapes from the content options. When using this, you can change it so you have 1 photo boxes, 2 photo boxes or leave it with 3 photo boxes. Then maybe add a mat on the photo boxes to show a division in the pictures.

for a FUN look, try adding the 3D filter to all of the elements on the page. This is the 3d settings I used: Amount = 80; Softness = 100; Direction = -90 for the arrows pointing up; Direction = 90 for the arrows pointing down and fill paper; then add a drop shadow.

WordArt ~ Outling Alphabet

2010-09-04T19:21:00.009-07:00

Are you interested in learing how to create an outline on your text? Once your text is flattened you can even fill with paper. How fun is that. The font I used to create this is called "Disney Park" and can be downloaded from my blog. You will see "MY BLOG SHORTCUTS" in the upper right corner -> then Font of the Month -> the font can be found in the March downloads.

create your text image -> for my example I created the words "Walt Disney" and "World"
right mouse click your text image -> select "FLATTEN"
with the image selected press the "Ctrl & C" to make a copy ->then press the "Ctrl & V" to paste
fill the pasted image a different color other than black, for my example I used WHITE
with the 2 images selected -> from the ARRANGE menu -> center horizontally and vertically (see screen shot below)
with only the WHITE image selected -> from the FORMAT -> FILTERS -> select SOFTEN EDGE = 20 (the amount of softening will depend on the size of the image, adjust it as needed)

At this point you can leave them as 2 separate images or you can right mouse click -> select GROUP or FLATTEN. I always leave then as grouped until I am 100% sure I am not going to need to change anything.

*** GROUP *** will allow you to go back later and change each layer fill color or even with paper.

*** FLATTEN *** you will not be able to make any changes to each layer, it is now one image.

My favorite thing to do with wordart is add a 3D filter to it. You will need to flatten each layer of your wordart images together first.

with the image selected -> from the FORMAT -> FILTERS -> select 3D; amount =100, softness = 100, width = 20, direction = 45
then you can add a drop shadow to really make your wordart pop

Story Book 8x8 ~ Count your Blessings

2010-08-30T09:10:00.023-07:00

I am so excited to get my first free'bie book done. Please remember to read my * FRIENDLY REQUEST * before downloading. I worked very hard on this book and am offering it for FREE.

The book contains lots of word art and overlays created by me. There is also some CM free'bies that are in the screen shot, but not included in the templates. Other than what I created, this book is naked.

The colors are just the template color I selected so you could see the different shapes used. Feel free to add papers of your choice. The flowers are just placements for embellishments, feel free to replace them with real embellishments or remove them completely.

If you are in your Creative Memories Storybook Creator program, close it before starting this. You will need to know where you story books are stored on your computer. Open the folder on your computer where your storybooks are stored.

Overlays ~ Creating them

2010-08-26T20:51:00.017-07:00

Would you like to know how to create your own overlays? For this example I am going to create the daisy overlay. You can do these same steps for any of the designs in the CM program.

This is a long posting, but if you hang in there to the end you will see how easy it really is to create an overlay. I just wanted to be sure I didn't miss any steps.

to make the FLOWER:

fill your background with a bright or dark color
from the CONTENT -> click the SHAPES -> NATURE -> double click on the flower shape
from the CREATE SHAPE pop up window -> click the "USE ORIGINAL ASPECT RATIO" option -> change the color to WHITE -> click CREATE -> resize as needed
create the yellow center circle with the same steps as you did to create the flower -> center the YELLOW CIRCLE over the WHITE FLOWER
select the WHITE FLOWER and YELLOW CIRCLE -> RIGHT MOUSE click -> select GROUP

1st layer of the OVERLAY:

my end result is 3 different sizes of flowers
my first size was the larger flowers -> select the grouped flower -> press the "Ctrl & C" at the same time to copy the flower -> press the "Ctrl & V" at the same time to paste the flower
move the flower to a new location -> press the "Ctrl & V" again to copy another flower -> keep doing this until you have around 12 large flowers
with the background paper locked -> press the "Ctrl & A" to select all of the large flowers -> right mouse click and select GROUP
at this point if you think the flowers are too large or too small you can RESIZE them all at one time
once you they are the size you want -> right mouse click -> FLATTEN
with the LARGE flowers selected -> from the FORMAT menu option -> select OPACITY -> change it to 40 {changing the opacity gives the look of Vellum}
LOCK this layer in place

2nd layer of the OVERLAY:

press the "Ctrl & V" one more time -> RESIZE the flower smaller than the large flowers
with the smaller flower selected press the "Ctrl & C" -> press the "Ctrl & V" key to make more copies -> move them after each copy is made, just as you did for the large flowers
same as before, with the background and the large flowers locked -> press the "Ctrl & A" to select all of the medium flowers -> right mouse click and select GROUP
RESIZE if needed -> right mouse click FLATTEN
with the MEDIUM flowers selected -> from the FORMAT menu option -> select OPACITY -> change it to 60
click the LOCK option

3rd layer of OVERLAY:

press the "Ctrl & V" one more time -> RESIZE the flower smaller than the medium flower
with the smaller flower selected press the "Ctrl & C" -> press the "Ctrl & V" key to make more copies -> move them after each copy is made, just as you did for the medium flower
same as before, with the background, the large flowers and the medium flowers locked -> press the "Ctrl & A" to select all of the small flower -> right mouse click and select GROUP
RESIZE if needed -> right mouse click FLATTEN
with the SMALL flowers selected -> from the FORMAT menu option -> select OPACITY -> change it to 90
click the LOCK option

The next step is to make all the layers into one overlay. You will want to UNLOCK each FLOWER layers -> leave the BACKGROUND locked -> select each of the 3 FLOWER layers -> right mouse click -> select FLATTEN

At this point you can save your overlay in a FOLDER so you can re-use it over and over again. You may want to create a folder just for images you have created. My folder is in a package called Creative Memories -> "Created by Me". If you are unsure how to do this, at the way top of my blog, in the menu bar there is an option named "Manage my Content". There you will find instruction to create the folders needed.

Once you have the folder created, all you have to do is right mouse click on the overlay -> SELECT "Save as Content" -> CONTENT TYPE need to be selected as EMBELLISHMENT -> save in the "Created by Me" -> name it "Daisy Overlay" -> leave all other options at the default setting. Now your daisy overlay is ready to use.

Overlays ~ Daisy

2010-08-15T20:23:00.016-07:00

Do you like overlay's as much as I do? Overlays are so much fun to create and more fun to use. Well I created another one and just wanted to share with all of you. Hope you like this one.

Add a 3d Filter for an extra pop of these overlays: from the FORMAT -> effects FILTERS -> 3D Edge -> Amount =80; Softness = 100; Width = 20; Direction = 45

You can fill the overlay's with a solid color or even paper. You can also change the opacity of the overlay.

As a side note, the pink template is the front cover of a book I am working on. Keep checking my blog as I will be posting the book soon. You probably figured out the book is going to be named "Count your Blessings".

Template ~ Tic Tac Toe

2010-08-14T00:27:00.022-07:00

How much fun can this template be? Would love to see what you come up with?

You can add photo frames - remove some photo frames; add O's - remove O's; add X's - remove X's. You get the idea. Then for an extra touch ~ I used the 3d filter to the elements then a drop filter to each element and the photo mats.

Template ~ Wave

2010-07-05T15:53:00.038-07:00

How much fun are the new edges. This template was made with the wave edge cutter. I made the wave so it would match up across a 2 page layout. So you will want to download both templates if you want your waves to match up:-) My daughter-in-law thinks I am nuts for being so fussy. But when this book is all done she will love all the attention to details.

Additional Features I used:
I filled each layer of paper with the same paper then adjusted the BRIGHTNESS for each Wave layer.

from the COLOR select Color and Light then Brightness & Light

back wave BRIGHTNESS -40

middle wave BRIGHTNESS 30

front wave BRIGHTNESS 60

add a 3D filter to each wave layer and top border

from the FORMAT select FILTERS then 3D Edge

Waves then Amount = 100; Softness = 100; Width = 30; Direction = -45

Top Border then Amount = 100; Softness = 100; Width = 30; Direction = 90

add a drop shadow to each wave layer

from the FORMAT then SHADOWS then SHADOW

Template - Day by Day

2010-07-02T23:22:00.027-07:00

This is a repost of a prior posting except the template has been modified to 11x8.5. A visitor asked how to make the template from the 12x12 to 11x8.5. The request sounded like fun, so here is is. Also, if you are wanting to remove days, you can delete all of the elements that make of each day section.

Thank you all so much for visiting my blog and taking the time to leave comments. Hope you can find some creative ways to use these templates.

How much fun can you have with this template? Change the word "DAY" to the day of the week then put the date below. Add some days or remove some days.

I went to Alaska a couple of years ago on a cruise. I did really well to save my itinerary, the daily ship news with lots of ship facts, all my excursion tickets and took lot of pictures. Still have yet to get the scrapbook done. These are going to be my page 2 and 3 in my book.

Anyway, I liked how this layout turned out and wanted to share with all of you:-)

The font I used for the words "Journey to" is Cut-n-Paste, the font I used for the "ALASKA" is Artistamp Medium. Both can be found on this blog for download.

Paper ~ Polka Dot

2010-06-19T08:44:00.025-07:00

Can you tell I am lovin this creating stuff for your Creative Memories program? It is just too much fun. Believe it or not, I am actually getting more of my books done. But every time I do something fun, I just think about all of you and the need to share.

Dotted papers can be so much fun to use. They can be used as a background, cut paper pieces for your layout or fill an image. For this sample, I filled the vellum images with the papers I created. You will find the vellum images in a prior posting on this blog if you didn't download them.

Creating these papers is really easy and fun.

How much fun can these be?

Before you start making you own papers, if you don't already have a CONTENT folder created for your own creations, you will need to go through these instructions-> Manage my Content <- Once you have created a folder, come back to this posting by clicking the back button.

make you own Dotted Papers:

create a new blank page

fill your background paper with a solid color

add the dotted overlay

in the ELEMENTS -> select the dotted overlay -> then select the solid background

from the menu ARRANGE -> ALIGNMENT -> select center vertical then center horizontal options

with both images still selected from the ARRANGE -> GROUPING -> select GROUP -> then FLATTEN

with your paper selected -> right mouse click -> select SAVE AS CONTENT -> save the paper in your Creative Memories - Created by Me folder -> select the content type PAPER

your paper is now available to use your paper to fill anything you like:-)

Template ~ Snowglobe Mickey

2010-06-18T05:59:00.029-07:00

This is a re-do of a template I posted a long time ago.

Cindy Brown Snider posted a finished version of my original snowglobe template with a picture of Disneyland in it on facebook. I thought it turned out so awesome. Then Marian posted an interest in the template, then Marian and I got to chatting back and forth via facebook. Anyway, Marian thought it would sure make a great back of a Disney book she is working on. Then I got to thinking, wonder how the snowglobe template would look with Mickey ears. Well here is the finished template.

If you have facebook, you have to see Cindy Brown Snider completed layout using my original snowglobe template. It is well worth your visit

The 1st version: in each of the ears I deleted the photo mat and the one of the solid circles, so that all that was left in the ear is the star overlay and 1 solid circle. Then I moved the ears behind the main large circle. To move the ears, in the elements click on each element and move them to the bottom just before the big main circle. I also deleted one of the large solid circles.

The 2nd version has the photo mat included and the ears in front. I was thinking it might look better with the ears behind the main big circle. But play around with the elemets and choose what looks best to you.

Helpful Hints ~ making Vellum images

2010-06-11T18:33:00.025-07:00

Have you ever had a chance to watch Tameka Bond's videos? These instructions were created using the idea from one of Tameka's videos called "Vellum Letters". How much fun can you have with these? I know I can come up with lots of ideas.

Thank you Tameka for your wonderful videos and for letting me post your idea:-)

Create a Vellum Image:

from the CONTENT -> click the SHAPES -> GEOMETRIC -> double click on your shape you have selected

from the Create Shape pop up window -> click the "USE ORIGINAL ASPECT RATIO" option -> change the color to BLACK

with the image selected press the "Ctrl & C" to make a copy ->then press the "Ctrl & V" to paste

fill the pasted image a different color other than black, for my example I used bright PINK

with the 2 images selected -> from the ARRANGE menu -> center horizontally and vertically (see screen shot below)

with only the PINK image selected -> from the FORMAT -> FILTERS -> select SOFTEN EDGE = 50 (this number will also depend on the size of the image, adjust it as needed)

select the BLACK and the PINK image -> RIGHT MOUSE click -> select FLATTEN

with the image selected -> from the CUT & FILL menu -> select WAND -> click inside the PINK area -> select "CUT AROUND THE SELECTED AREA"

at this point you will have 2 images again

fill the PINK image with PINK again

from the FORMAT menu -> click the OPACITY -> change it to 50

select the BLACK cutout image -> fill with the same PINK as the other image

with both images selected -> RIGHT MOUSE click -> select FLATTEN

At this point you can change the color of the image or even fill with paper

3D touch:

with the image selected -> from the FORMAT menu -> select FILTERS -> 3d EDGE -> amount = 80; softness = 100; width = 40; direction = 90

Balloon String:

from the INSERT menu -> in the OTHER section -> select LINE -> CURVED PATH -> I used a WHITE 1.5 line

You can also watch the video for this project by Tameka Bond Vellum Letters

Happy Scrapping:-)

Template ~ Seeing Stars & Balloons

2010-06-10T09:58:00.025-07:00

Would you like to learn how to make your own shape overlay? Would yo like to learn how to make the big stars look between the background paper and the star overlay? Best of all would you like to learn how to make the Mickey Balloons?

This idea would look pretty as Hearts, Butterflies or Flowers too:-)

STAR OVERLAY:

fill your background with a bright color

from the CONTENT -> click the SHAPES -> GEOMETRIC -> double click on your shape you have selected

from the Create Shape pop up window -> click the "USE ORIGINAL ASPECT RATIO" option -> change the color to WHITE -> resize

LARGE Stars:

my end result was 3 different sizes of stars

my first size was the larger stars -> select the star you cut out -> press the "Ctrl & C" at the same time to copy the star -> press the "Ctrl & V" at the same time to paste the star -> move the star to a new location -> press the "Ctrl & V" again to copy another star -> keep doing this until you have around 12 large stars

with the background paper locked -> press the "Ctrl & A" to select all of the large stars -> right mouse click and select GROUP

at this point if you think the stars are too large or too small you can RESIZE them all at one time

once you they are the size you want -> right mouse click -> FLATTEN

with the LARGE Stars selected -> from the FORMAT menu option -> select OPACITY -> change it to 40

click the LOCK option

MEDIUM Stars:

press the "Ctrl & V" one more time -> RESIZE the star smaller than the large stars

with the smaller star selected press the "Ctrl & C" -> press the "Ctrl & V" key to make more copies -> move them after each copy is made, just as you did for the large stars

same as before, with the background and the large stars locked -> press the "Ctrl & A" to select all of the medium stars -> right mouse click and select GROUP

RESIZE if needed -> right mouse click FLATTEN

with the MEDIUM Stars selected -> from the FORMAT menu option -> select OPACITY -> change it to 60

click the LOCK option

SMALL Stars:

press the "Ctrl & V" one more time -> RESIZE the star smaller than the medium stars

with the smaller star selected press the "Ctrl & C" -> press the "Ctrl & V" key to make more copies -> move them after each copy is made, just as you did for the medium stars

same as before, with the background, the large stars and the medium stars locked -> press the "Ctrl & A" to select all of the small stars -> right mouse click and select GROUP

RESIZE if needed -> right mouse click FLATTEN

with the SMALL Stars selected -> from the FORMAT menu option -> select OPACITY -> change it to 90

click the LOCK option

BIG STARS behind the overlay:

cut a large star, same as before -> fill with the same color as your background

with the large star selected -> from the FORMAT -> FILTERS -> select 3D option; Amount = 80, Softness = 100, Width = 40, Direction = 45

move these stars between the background paper and the star overlay in your ELEMENTS section

Helpful Hints ~ shaped Photo Frames & Mats

2010-06-04T21:45:00.012-07:00

Have you ever wanted to know how to create a shaped photo frame and maybe add a shaped mat? Hopefully these instructions will help you.

from the INSERT menu -> select EMPTY FRAME
with the empty frame selected -> click menu option FORMAT PHOTOS
select the MAT option -> select CUTOUT -> select a cutout option

from the MAT option -> select MAT FILL OPTION -> change the color to WHITE -> slide the OPACITY to O

Matted Shaped Frame:

from the FRAMES -> click the SELECT option choose 2nd option
from the FRAMES -> FORMAT option select the CUTOUT option of your choice, do this step for each of the layers

for the first option select the CHANGE MAT FILL -> change the color to WHITE -> slide the OPACITY to O

you can also change each mat color by selecting the CHANGE MAT FILL option for each layer or even fill each layer with paper

Template - Family Tree

2010-06-02T07:23:00.015-07:00

This is a repost from a prior template project I had posted with a few additions.

The fence, grass and the tire swing images can be found on Charity's blog "Together Forever" kit as a free download. Be sure you take a look around while you are there.

I filled the tree top and tree truck with papers from the Cottage Garden package from Creative Memories. The rest of the detailed instructions, template and background paper can all be found on the prior posting -> CM Template - Family Tree

Template - Soldier Flag

2010-05-31T10:58:00.058-07:00

My prayers go with all soldiers, for those who have paid the ultimate price, for those currently serving, for those that have served, for the families and for those yet to serve. My hope is that you know the love of our Lord and Savior, for only there you will find complete peace and love.

The Lord bless you and keep you;
The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you;
The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Numbers 6:24-26

Template - Tropical 2

2010-05-28T20:43:00.022-07:00

Can you tell I am having way to much fun with the surfaces and filters features in Creative Memories?

Here is another version of the Tropical template I had posted earlier. Same idea, 2 circles and 1 background paper with a circle cut out of each layer and the photo frames behind the circles and paper. This way you can add photo frames, resize the photo frames, switch the photo frames around, keep just 1 photo frame or whatever you want without loosing the circle matting shape.

For this finished layout I used 2 different surfaces and 1 filter.

Background paper and the circle matting-> Format -> Surfaces -> Burlap (which is the 2nd row 1st option)
Embelishments and Wordart-> Format -> Surfaces -> Faux

Circle Matting and Embelishments and Wordart:

Format -> Filters -> 3d -> Amount = 80; Softness = 100; Width = 20; Direction = 45 or = 90
Format -> Shadows -> Shadow down arrow; select Heavy Shadows; select the most Center option

Template - Tropical 1

2010-05-25T20:47:00.033-07:00

I created this template by layering 2 circles and the background paper, then cutting out the centers of each layer. Then I placed the photo frames behind the 2 layers of circles and the background paper. This gives you the option of having more that one photo frame in the circle matting without changing the shape of the photo frame.

There are 2 different version of the layout below.

The 1st is just filled with paper and embelishments added. Pretty boring looking, I think:-)
The 2nd has the has the Fax surface added. "Format -> Surfaces -> Faux"

Both of them also have the 3d filter added. "Format -> Filters -> 3d -> Amount = 80; Softness = 100; Width = 20; Direction = 45 or = 90

Both of them also have a drop shadow added. "Format -> Shadows"

Most of all have fun playing with the surfaces and filters. Hope you enjoy this template as much as the others.

Alphabet Fun - Clear Acrylic

2010-05-19T19:25:00.023-07:00

Do you like fun ALPHABETS? Yours truly really enjoys fun alphabets.

This is one of my favorite alpahabets from "Designs by Sarah" blogsite.

How much fun can these be? When you are all done adding these alphabets to your Creative Memories program, you may want to go back and get some more. She has lots and lots and lots of fun free alphabets.

* Download the Alphabets *

click here to go to Sarah's blog to -> "download" them
once you are on her blog -> click the "download image" just under the picture of the alphabets
from 4shared.com, click the "Download now" button
wait a few seconds until you see "Click here to download this file" -> then click it
you will have 3 options from the next pop up window -> select "Open"
once the zip file window opens -> double click the folder "DBS_Clearly An Alpha" to open the folder
at this point you can drag all of the "DBS_ClearlyAnAlpha.." files into a folder of your choice

You will need to remember where this folder is because you still need to get the letters into your Creative Memories program.

Next is getting the alphabets from the folder you just saved them to into ~ to your Creative Memories program.

* Add a new Local Content *

from the Welcome screen click the "Manage my Content"
right mouse click on the "Local Content" -> then click "Add a Folder" -> name the folder "myEmmaDoodle.blogspot.com"
right mouse click on the "myEmmaDoodle.blogspot.com" folder you just created -> then click "Add a user Package" -> name the package "Clear Acrylic"
click the "Embelishment" button
find the folder you just saved all the alphabets too
click the first alphabet then hold your shift key down and click the last alphabet
click the "Get Images" button

Your alphabets are now ready to use in your Creative Memories program.

* Changing the Color *

with the letter(s) selected -> from the color menu -> select the "Color Wash" option
click the "Hue" to select the color
optional: adjust the "Saturation" and/or adjust the "Intensity"
click the "Preview" or "Accept" option
if you don't like the color, just click the undo button and try again

* EXTRA INFORMATION * The best part of naming the folders like this way, is if you find more fun alphabets, just create another folder, then add them in. My folder names are personal preference. Feel free to name the folders what-ever makes sense to you.

~ Happy Scrapping ~

Template ~ Baby Girl or Baby Boy Quilt

2010-05-01T11:02:00.044-07:00

Hope you enjoy this template as much as the others. The link to download the template is below.

All elements used on this template can be found on the Creative Memories website in the "free download themes" section. The theme is called "Baby Boy Bright and Baby Girl Bright".

Feel free to change any of the settings to get the desired look. The below settings are just to give you an idea of how to use different filters together.

The stitching is from the CM free'bies, if you don't have them email me and I will let you know where you can get them.

Create the receiving blanket effect:

My samples show this look for the background paper, the letters and each of the baby elements.

With the element selected from the “FORMAT” menu choose “SURFACES” -> on the 5th row; last option, choose “TERRI” and change the “SCALE TEXTURE” on 2. Do this with each of the elements you want to look like a receiving blanket.

Also you can create this look for all of the elements at one time by selecting each element and holding your shift key.

Create the fuzzy blanket effect:

My sample shows the white background with the stitching to look like a fuzzy blanket.

To get this look fill the element with white.
With the element selected from the “FORMAT” menu choose “SURFACES” -> on the 3rd row; last option, choose “FUZZY”.

3D effect:

With the element selected from the “FORMAT” menu choose “FILTERS” -> then “3D EDGE” -> amount = 80, softness = 100, width = 30, direction = 45.

Depending on the size of the element you can select the width setting from 30 to 50.

Drop Shadow effect:

With the background paper locked press the “CTRL + A” on your keyboard to select all elements.

Click the down arrow just under the “SHADOW” option from the "FORMAT". In the “HEAVY SHADOWS” choose the center one. This makes and even shadow fully around each element.

Template ~ Family Tree

2010-03-19T17:34:00.028-07:00

Hope you enjoy this template.

Feel free to change any of the settings to get the desired look. The below settings are just to give you an idea of how to use different filters together. I cut the tree out using the tools in CM. The top of the tree is just the cloud shapes resized and rotated. Buttons and thread in the buttons are from the CM freebies page.

You will see color swatches in the upper right part of the template. You can use the color swatches if you want to have your tree the same colors as mine or fill with a different color or fill with paper.

Fill each element with a solid color using the color swatches:

With the element selected from the “COLOR & FILL” menu -> click the down arrow just under the “COLOR” option -> click the “SAMPLE COLOR” dropper then click on the color swatch for that element -> click the “OK” button.

Fill each element with paper:

With the element selected from the “CONTENT” tab select “PAPERS’ find the paper you want to fill the element -> right mouse click on your paper –> select “FILL SELECTED SHAPE”

Create the felted look:

With the element selected from the “FORMAT” menu choose “SURFACES” -> on the 3rd row; last option choose “FUZZY”.

Soften each edge:

With the element selected from the “FORMAT” menu choose “FILTERS” -> then “SOFTEN EDGE” = 20

3D Effect:

With the element selected from the “FORMAT” menu choose “FILTERS” -> then “3D EDGE” -> amount = 90, softness = 80, width = 50

Drop shadow:

With all of the tree elements selected from the “FORMAT” menu click the down arrow just under the “SHADOW” option choose the middle one in the 2nd row of the heavy shadows option.

Resize or move the entire Tree:

Single click while holding the shift key to select all of the tree elements -> right mouse click -> choose “GROUPING” then “GROUP”
Then resize the tree
When you are all done resizing or moving the tree; right mouse click on the tree and select “GROUPING” then “UNGROUP”

Template ~ Blocks

2010-02-19T20:24:00.022-07:00

With this template you can add blocks or remove blocks ~ fill with pictures or fill with paper ~ enlarge the blocks or reduce the blocks ~ flatten them once you have added a picture or paper then add a 3d filter.

Be sure to read through all the instructions. It will make this template so much easier to use.

For an extra touch when you are all done adding your pictures or papers, put a 3d filter on the blocks and a drop shadow to give it more depth.

If you want to move the entire block arrangement without moving each piece:

lock the background paper

with all of the other elements unlocked -> press the CTRL and the A button on your keyboard -> this will select each piece of each block all at the same time

right mouse click the block arrangement and select GROUP

move the block arrangement where you want it

when done moving them -> with the blocks all selected -> right mouse click and select UNGROUP

If you want to move one block set:

holding your shift key -> click each section that forms one block set to select them

right mouse click and select GROUP

move, copy, change size, etc

when you are done -> right mouse click the grouped block and select UNGROUP

If you want to fill one block set with paper:

holding your shift key -> click each section that forms one block set to select them

right mouse click and select FLATTEN

right mouse click your paper choice -> select FILL SELECTED SHAPE

Add a 3D filter

with the block or block set selected from the menu

select FORMAT -> FILTERS -> select 3D EDGE -> AMOUNT = 80 to 100; SOFTNESS 50 to 80; WIDTH 30 to 50

play around with these settings until you get the desired look

I created this template, but wanted to be sure to give Saundra Engle the designer of this awesome layout design credit. She has done some great instruction sheets. Click on her name to check them out.

Template - 4 Tags w/ Flowers

2010-02-09T20:53:00.016-07:00

Tags have got to be my all time favorite fun thing in traditional scrapbooking as well as digital. Hope you enjoy this template.

Here are some extra tips on how I added some fun looks to the template.

The solid back layer of the flowers are from the Black & White Digital Power Palette. I changed the color by using the “Color Wash” from the “Color” menu.

The design front layer of the flower is from the Delight Digital Power Palette. They are filled with paper and applied a 3d filter by using the “Filters” from the “Format” menu. Settings: Amount = 80, Softness = 70, Width = 20, Direction = 45

The center of the flower is filled with White then a 3d filter by using the “Filters” from the “Format” menu. Settings: Amount = 80, Softness = 70, Width = 20, Direction = 45

The tags are all filled with a solid color and a 3d filter by using the “Filters” from the “Format” menu. Settings: Amount = 80, Softness = 70, Width = 20, Direction = 90

The large ring is filled with a solid color and a 3d filter by using the “Filters” from the “Format” menu. Settings: Amount = 80, Softness = 70, Width = 20, Direction = 90

For a more fun look, you can add your title with your favorite font > right mouse click the title to flatten it > fill with a solid color or paper and add the 3d filter to it. Really makes the title pop.

Images ~ Framed Word Art

2010-01-23T00:08:00.011-07:00

Do you like word art as much as I do?

I created these Framed Images so you can create your own unique framed word art projects. You will want to download the "BrendaMc Frame Square" and "BrendaMc Frame Rectangle" for this project.

Template ~ School House

2010-01-15T13:48:00.020-07:00

I bet you can think of some School pictures to put in this template? Maybe your kids pictures? Maybe some of your own pictures?

SUGGESTION: You may want to center the School House and contents once you have all the papers filled. From the Arrange menu option select all pieces of the school house. See screen shot below for more details.

Template ~ Year in Review

2010-01-03T18:47:00.021-07:00

The Photo Reel image was designed by Charlotte Gardunia of Srappity.blogspot.com. I modified the "Photo Reel" image to be a Creative Memories template with Charlotte's permission. If you use this template, please be sure to give credit to Charlotte.

Hope you enjoy my version of the photo reel template!..

Template ~ Snowglobe

2010-01-02T11:02:00.022-07:00

This is a re-do of the 12x12 Creative Memories template created by me. Loving the 3D feature in Creative Memories and the Bling.

This is how I created this:

Download the "BrendaMc CM Template Snowglobe 12x12" template and the "BrendaMc CM Template Snowglobe Elements" from the link below

Import the template and elements into Creative Memories. Instructions if you are not sure how.

fill the Globe and Base with the glitter paper provided in the Elements zip file; use the image below as a guide

to get the 3D effect > select the image > from the Format ribbon > in the Effects select Filters > select 3D Edge with the following settings > Amount = 50; Softness = 50; Width = 50

Please send me an email requesting the template.

Template ~ File Folder

2009-12-30T20:32:00.019-07:00

This as a 12x12 Creative Memories template created by me. Please leave me a comment if you like these:-)

I had posted this template in 11x8.5 prior on my blog. Had a few people request the template in 12x12. Funny thing is I actually like what I did with this version better. Now I have to go back and modify my Alaska Cruise scrapbook. They kind of look like epoxy images. I am so loving the 3D effects. I may have to go back and re-do the others.

There are 2 templates, 2 sample images shown below and 2 fonts included in the zip file. You will find instructions on my blog how to get all from the zip file to your Creative Memories program.

To get the 3d look ~ play around with the settings until you get the desired look

select the image you want to 3D

from the Format ribbon

select Filters

choose 3D edge

for the Flowers: select Amount =100, Softness = 20, Width = 20

everything else: select Amount = 100, Softness = 50, Width = 50

Then add a shadow from the Format - Shadow ribbon. Select the one you like until you get the desired look.

Creating Word Art

2009-12-29T13:29:00.002-07:00

Would you like to know how to create your own word art?

1st word art image ~ if you want to fill the word art with paper

From the "Insert" menu option > select "Place an empty text box on page" > click "create"
Double click in the text box to bring up the font menu
For this example I am going to use the font "Ransom" at size 56 or select any chunky font you have, don't worry too much about the size at this point. You will be able to resize the image when you are done.
Leave the font what ever color you have it
At this point if you want multiple words, you would start at step 1 until you have all the words created, then continue from here
Right mouse click the font and select "Flatten"
At this point you can select any paper you like > with the font image you just created > select right mouse click on your paper > select "Fill selected shape"
With the font image selected, from the "Format" menu option select the shadow you like

2nd word art image ~ if you want the word are a solid color

Create another wordart except use the font "Artistamp Medium" or any chunky font you may have
From the "Format Text" menu option change the font color to white size 56 or what ever size you like
From the "Arrange" menu option rotate the image to the right
With the font image selected, from the "Format" menu option select the shadow you like

The LOVE image below is from the Creative Memories website FREEBIE.
The HAPPINESS image I created using several fonts by using the 1st image word art instructions above.
The JACOBA FONT image is a sample of how I created the happiness image along with some of my favorite font names.

Template ~ Snowglobe

2009-12-20T21:32:00.015-07:00

This is a 12x12 Creative Memories template created by me. The 1st image is the actual template with no papers. The 2nd image is the same template with the papers I selected.

The snowflakes and ribbon are from the CM free'bies. If you don't have them email me and I will let you know where you can get them.

Template ~ Birthday Cake

2009-12-16T17:59:00.015-07:00

This is a 12x12 Creative Memories template created by me. Not sure what I am going to do with this template just yet. But thought it turned out pretty cute:-)
Please be sure to give me credit if you use my template.