Friends Greeting Card

©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011



I thought I would share one more card from my most recent CardMaker online newsletter -- it's all about using border punches. If you haven't used your punches in awhile, take them out and dust them off. They are perfect for creating greeting cards and if you go to my newsletter at CardMaker Magazine you will be able to get a few different ideas to try. While you are there, sign up, it's free! For those of you wondering, yes, I stitched each bead onto the front of this card. At least I know they will be there for years to come. Speaking of years, as we say farewell to 2011 and welcome 2012, I wish each and everyone of you all the best! May the coming year be filled with warm and wonderful moments full of joy and may the paths that you choose to follow treat you kindly.
Until next year take care!
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Celebrations!

©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Well Christmas has come and gone and a new year approaches. I hope each of you were blessed with the joy of the Christmas season! I was blessed to be able to spend some warm and wonderful moments with family and also to reflect on and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.
As a new year approaches I would like to thank each of you who has touched my life in various ways throughout this past year! I truly appreciate the support given to me through attending my classes, book signings and the purchase of my books. I also appreciate the stores who have stocked and promoted my publications, two of the local ones are Paper Pastimes and Scrapbooker's Paradise - heartfelt thanks! I encourage you to visit these local stores (Calgary, Alberta), I am sure you will be pleased with what they have to offer! I enjoy reading the feedback from readers of the CardMaker Magazine online newsletter -- keep your thoughts coming! I look forward to helping to inspire you to create in the coming year.
If you are looking for some inspiration on border punches please check out my most recent edition of the CardMaker online newsletter. In case you are not familiar with this newsletter I am co-editor along with Kimber McGray. It is a free newsletter that you can sign up for and then it comes directly to your inbox. My most recent issue went out on December 26th and it is about using border punches. So please check it out -- CardMaker Newsletter. The card shown in this post is one that is shared in the newsletter. Hope you enjoy it!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Merry Christmas!

©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Merry Christmas! I thought this would be the perfect time to share this canvas wall or tabletop decor with you. It makes use of some beautiful printed paper along with snowflake die cuts using Spellbinder's dies, Technique Tuesday Believe stamp, Christmas foliage, Magnetic Poetry stamps, EK Success snowflake punch, Martha Stewart glitter, Starform glitter dots and Tea Bag Folding techniques. For more info on tea bag folding techniques check out my book Tea Bag Folding Through The Seasons by clicking on the cover at the right.
May each of you experience the joy of this season and be wrapped in warm moments spent with family and friends!
Sharon

Gift Card Holder

As promised, here is the inside view of the greeting card posted yesterday. To create the base card simply cut cardstock 5 1/2" x 11", score at 4 1/4", 5 1/2" and 6 3/4".  Fold on the 5 1/2" score line and use a label die or die/punch of choice to cut an opening on the fold for the gift card. To finish, fold on the remaining score lines creating the 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" card. Adhere, sandwiching middle panel on inside of card. Narrow double-sided tape such as the 1/8" Sookwang tape works perfectly, allowing enough space for the gift card itself. I have often used these style of cards for movie passes as well, the type that you can get at Costco - I just fold them and insert.  They would work equally as well for a monetary gift.  Hope this helps with your gift giving!
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Ivory Snowflake Christmas Card

Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Well two weeks and counting!  If you are looking for a quick Christmas card in non traditional colors here you go. This one uses brown and a beautiful ivory with a pearlescent golden glow (which is probably lost on screen). Simply cut a layer panel from snowflake print, wrap with ivory ribbon and add an additional touch of sheer brown ribbon. Die cut and layer snowflake (this one is Spellbinder's Create a Flake One), slightly fold the one snowflake upwards to create some dimension add a pretty brad (love these ones from Michaels wedding section) and you are done. This card is a gift card holder on the inside, so I will share the info on that in my next post.
I wanted to send my sincere thanks to all of the staff at Scrapbooker's Paradise north store for their assistance with yesterday's make and take and booksigning! It was a great event and I met some wonderful ladies who I believe have now caught the tea-bag folding bug!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Christmas Card Make & Take!

Hope those of you that are in the Calgary area will join me at Scrapbooker's Paradise North store (Crowfoot Crossing - 45 Crowfoot Terrace NW) for a greeting card make and take and booksigning on Saturday December 10th from 11 am to 3 pm. The cost for the make and take is $2.00 and it is a Christmas themed greeting card using tea bag folding techniques, beautiful die-cuts from Spellbinder's and great texture created with a pretty Sizzix embossing folder.
In case you have not heard about tea bag folding it began in Holland with a lady named Tiny Van Der Plaas who used a pretty tea bag envelope to fold into shapes to create a card. In North America we do not have the pretty printed envelopes but we certainly do have lots of other pretty papers! I will have some of the original card samples from my books Tea Bag Folding Through The Seasons and Iris Folding For Christmas on display as well. I hope to see you!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Christmas Card & Gift Set

This ensemble (the card was posted previously) is a perfect way to extend your appreciation to those people who make a difference in your life. Possibly you have a snow angel - a wonderful person who shovels your walk just because, or a teacher/coach who goes above and beyond and as a result has made a difference in you or your child's life. Or for a hostess who has opened her home to you and made you feel welcome. We all or I hope we do, I know I am blessed to have many people that make a difference in my life. So put your papercrafting supplies and skills to good use.  This ensemble makes use of a purchased journal and door hanger. For more ideas head to CardMaker Magazine's online newsletter, the November issue is all about tokens of appreciation. I hope you enjoy!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Quickie Christmas Card

Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Well with less than a month until Christmas I thought another quickie Christmas card would be in order. Can't believe where the time has gone -- sorry I have been absent for a bit.
This card utilizes a rub on transfer for the sentiment a die cut frame, tag and ornament shape, a splash of ribbon and of course a little sparkle with Stickles. Hope it helps for those of you who may be like me, way behind. Oh well, it always comes together, so don't forget to take time and enjoy your preparations.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Sparkling Flake Christmas Card

Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Well in honor of the snow we received today I thought I would share this sparkling greeting, created with pretty paper and die cut snowflakes. If you find yourself behind on your Christmas card creations, this one is fairly quick. Add a greeting on the front if desired or place the greeting inside. This creation could also double for a winter birthday card.
I would like to invite anybody in the Calgary area to a craft fair that I am participating in on Saturday November 19th from 10 am to 3 pm. The location is the Edgemont Community Center 33 Edgevalley Circle N.W. Calgary, Alberta. I will have some handmade creations for sale along with my books Iris Folding for Christmas and Tea Bag Folding Through The Seasons. I will happily sign any books purchased. Hope to see you, I hear there are some wonderful vendors at this event! Purchases will be on a cash only basis.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Snowflake Tea-Bag Fold Card

Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart November 2011

I had a great time participating in the Calgary Critter Crop organized by Sandra L. in support of the Calgary Humane Society yesterday. What a great group of ladies! I donated a make and take to the event and taught a tea-bag folding technique. They all did a great job and I could see that many had caught the tea-bag folding bug, as there were quite a few busy fingers folding circle shapes. This is one of the kits that was available for purchase. This card makes use of a Magenta rubber stamp to create the tea-bag folding papers, Memories midnight blue ink, Spellbinder's Create a Flake one for the snowflake, clear sugar beads to accent the snowflake, Sizzix embossing folder for the card base along with metallic rub-on creme to accent the raised embossing. This fold begins with the basic triangle fold and then continues on by folding the top layer up and under to the center fold at left and right sides. For further ideas and inspiration please check out my most recent book Tea Bag Folding Through The Seasons by clicking the cover at right. I will share the actual make and take project with you in an upcoming post. Enjoy!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Lest We Forget

Christmas Iris Fold Card

Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart November 2011

Wanted to share this card with you and let you know that if you are in the Calgary, Alberta area I will be teaching a card class at Scrapbooker's Bliss on November 8th & 16th, please use the link for further information. The class will consist of this card and two others. The second one will also be using the iris folding technique and the third will make use of beautiful metallic threads using die-cut shapes and thread wrapping techniques. Hope you can join us. If you are not in the area and would like more inspiriation on iris folding please take a look at my book Iris Folding for Christmas by clicking on the cover at right. The book is available at Scrapbooker's Bliss, Scrapbooker's Paradise, Annie's Attic and through myself, just leave me a message through the feedback form.
Hope this card inspires you to create!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Gift Card Holder

Project Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

My apologies for being absent for so long. I have been dealing with some family health emergencies that thankfully now seem to be improving somewhat.
As the holidays are quickly approaching and because I have not had an opportunity to do much in the creative arena lately I thought I would share this quick gift card holder that I featured in a CardMaker e-letter about gift card holders. Be sure to check out the article for more ideas and inspiration.
This particular project makes use of an RSVP envelope sealed and cut to size to create the pocket.  Add some decorative papers, stamp a greeting (this one is from Hero Arts), and layer onto a pretty die-cut lacey circle (Spellbinder's). Add some ribbon and an adhesive pearl, finish by layering onto cardstock or a card and of course remember to insert the gift card of your choice.
Hope you like it!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Thread Wrapped Card

Card design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

I must say that I truly love beautiful threads, fibres and fabric but I do not sew. So instead I use these beautiful products within my card and papercrating projects. This thread wrap is a Spirelli technique using Wonderfil metallic threads on Spellbinder's pinking circles dies. I love the effect! The metallic bar at the bottom was colored with a copper leafing pen and then lightly sanded to reveal the word joy in silver. If you love thread wrapping, check out my article That's A Wrap at Cardmaker's on line newsletter.  Enjoy!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Tea Bag Folding Class

Class designed for Scrapbooker's Bliss ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Hi there! For all of you in the Calgary area there is still time to get in on the Christmas Card Class featuring Tea Bag folding techniques. This is a new date Thursday October 13th 6:30 - 8:30 pm.  I did a class last week with a great group of ladies and I think they caught the tea bag folding bug! I will have the original cards from my book Tea Bag Folding Through The Seasons with me to share during class and if you purchase a book and you want it signed we have the technology. For more info call Scrapbooker's Bliss at 403-217-9827. Hope to see you!! If you miss out on Thursday's class be sure to give the store a call as there is another class on the schedule for Saturday October 15th.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Quick Change Christmas Card!

Design © Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

As promised, here is the leaves card from my last post transformed into a Christmas Card! A few rhinestone berries, gold foliage puched using a Martha Stewart punch, a bit of red ribbon and a splash of red cardstock and voila!. Quick Change Christmas Card!  This little exercise was done to encourage you to multipurpose your designs, its like a personal challenge and definitely helps kick start the creative process -- hope your like it and give it a try! 

Creatively yours,

Sharon

 

Quick Any Occasion Card



Card Design © Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

This simple card is an example of using what you have on hand. If you do not have co-ordinating brads - make your own. Simply apply a strong double sided liner tape to the brad and trim excess. Place a square of printed card stock onto exposed adhesive (it's good to start with a slightly larger square), trim excess cardstock. To give the designer brad an epoxy or lacquer effect apply Glossy Accents or similar clear dimensional medium and let dry. The die cut leaves (Sizzix die) have a thin coat of the dimensional medium as well. The decorative mat is created using a Spellbinder's die. Now you can co-ordinate your brads to any card! The space at the bottom right corner would be perfect for a small greeting like the words thanks, thankful or grateful. On that note, as this weekend is the Canadian Thanksgiving I would like to extend my best wishes to all of you celebrating Thanksgiving, may you share some warm and wonderful moments with family and friends. I know I will be counting my blessings I hope you will too! Be sure to watch for my next post where this design will be transformed into a Christmas Card! 
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Congratulations! Greeting Card

Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Congratulations! What a wonderful word! One that can be used for a multitude of occasions. Wedding, Engagement, New Baby, New Job, Promotion, and Graduation are just a few of those most wonderful moments we are blessed to be able to celebrate. This card makes use of one of my favorite techniques - making handmade flowers using scallop style dies and beautiful papers. The dies used on this card are from Spellbinder's. The card is one that I shared in a CardMaker online newsletter about wedding and shower cards. This particular card was given to a wonderful person in celebration of the new career she is embarking on. The delicate nature of this design suited the individual perfectly! Hope you like it!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Creating Cards with Stencils

Just want to give you a sneak peek at what is coming up in my next CardMaker Magazine online newsletter. Its about creating cards using stencils! If you have not signed up for this free newsletter head on over to CardMaker now, once there, scroll down and you will find the free sign up at the bottom left. My next issue goes live on Monday October 3rd, so that means if you sign up now it will go straight to your in box.  While you are there be sure to check out the archives. Kimber McGray and myself are the editors for this newsletter, hope you enjoy!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Christmas Card Class

Please excuse this photo - I grabbed a quick one before the cards were put on display, unfortunately they were already in the protective envelopes and the original cards are on display at Scrapbooker's Bliss. I think it gives you a good idea though on the type of cards we will be creating at my upcoming classes at Scrapbooker's Bliss. There are three dates to choose from Monday evening October 3rd, Wednesday daytime October 5th and Saturday daytime October 15th. Give Bliss a call at 403-217-9827 for further information. We had these cards on display at the Scrapbooker's Bliss booth this past weekend at the Great Canadian Scrapbooking Carnival put on by Canadian Scrapbooker and they were well received. It was great to see so many of you that I have had the pleasure of meeting previously in my classes and at other paper-crafting events and also to meet so many new people that our paths have not previously crossed. Hope you all had a great weekend! If you want to learn how to do tea bag folding or you just want some more ideas for Christmas cards, this is the class for you. By the way, the cards are hanging from a pant hanger, great way to hang scrapbook pages, cards, etc.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

The Great Canadian Scrapbook Carnival!

Don't forget to come by and see us at Scrapbooker's Bliss at MacEwan Hall University of Calgary!  Parking lots may be accessed easily from the 32nd Avenue entrance.

Halloween Card

Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Wow! Two posts in one day! As my last post did not include a card to possibly inspire you I thought I would share this Halloween invitation. I typically do not work on a great deal of Halloween designs but this paper inspired me to create. This is an invitation but could easily be changed into a greeting card just by changing the sentiment. The polka dot paper I believe is an older one from K and Company but it just spoke Halloween to me. Or, it would be a great paper for a Birthday card. The stamp is from the bins at Michaels.  Stamps very well, by the way. To bring more texture to the design, once the spider webb was stamped I stitched on seed beads and attached a black brad to become the spiders body, then layered it onto coaster board. A die cut label shape from Spellbinder's was sponged with orange ink and layered under the spider webb square. Add a bit of ribbon, a few rhinestones and a sentiment and you are done. A quick card or invitation, to make it even quicker you could opt to glue the beads on.
Hope you like it!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Lot's of Inspiration & Shopping!

Just want to invite you to participate in the Great Canadian Scrapbook Carnival organized by Canadian Scrapbooker Magazine. This event is a wonderful opportunity to crop, take classes, gain inspiration, have fun and of course shop! This years event is being held at MacEwan Conference & Events Centre on the U of C Campus, 402 Collegiate Boulevard N.W. on Friday, September 23rd from noon to 9 pm and Saturday September 24th from 9 am to 5 pm. 
I will be doing a booksigning and demonstration of some of the techniques in my most recent book Tea Bag Folding Through The Seasons as well as demonstrations of a variety of other products and techniques. So please come by and see me at the Scrapbooker's Bliss booth on Saturday between 10:30 to 12:30 and 1:30 to 3:30.  Hope to see you!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Christmas Tea Bag Fold Card

Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Design © Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

As promised, here is the Christmas card based on the design shown in yesterday's post. So if you need a little creative nudge just look to previous designs that you have made and make simple changes by choosing different papers, greetings and embellishments. It's a wonderful way to get more mileage in your card making adventures. It's also a great way to be able to make further use of those designs we really love. Just switch it up a bit! This design utilizes printed papers for the tea bag fold but you could always stamp your own. It's like using your previous designs as sketches, as you can see here, same design two different cards for different occasions. Enjoy!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Tea Bag Folded Card

Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

A quick post tonight to share a tea bag folded card that was showcased in my May 30, 2011 Vol. 5 No. 8 issue of CardMaker's online newsletter. The article was on wedding and shower cards but to show you how you can use a design for different occasions I am sharing this photo and then in my next post I will share the same basic design but created for a different occasion - possibly Christmas.  So stay tuned!
This tea bag fold is a non traditional design as it uses circle shapes rather than the traditional square shapes. It is an easy one to create and can be used for many applications.  Hope you like it!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

More Card Inspiration & Techniques!

Hi All!  Just wanted to share some info on a new special interest publication from CardMaker Magazine that is set to hit the newstands and Annie's Attic soon. This 114 page publication is packed with a variety of cardmaking techniques by various designers. I am thrilled to see one of my own projects on the cover - "Thanks" Spotlight Technique bottom left. Can't wait to get my copy!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Artist Trading Cards

Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

In case you have not been introduced to Artist Trading Cards, in brief form, they are 2 1/2" x 3 1/2" miniature pieces of art work that can be created using almost any medium and are traded and never sold. I thought I would let you know that my most recent newsletter, the August 22, 2011 issue, is all about Artist Trading Cards so for further information and inspiration head on over to CardMaker Magazine's online newsletter by clicking on the link. Here is a sneak peak! Enjoy!
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Tea Bag Fold Card

Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

It seems that many people enjoy the simple but elegant style of card. I have chosen to share this card because it truly is simple.  People assume that tea bag folding is difficult and truly it is not.  Once you have the basic folds and do a couple practice folds you are good to go. This card incorporates a basic triangle fold with an extra fold to create the square shape that becomes the dimensional piece. If you don't have a clue about tea bag folding and you would like to learn more please check out my book Tea Bag Folding Through the Seasons by clicking on the cover shot above right, it has step by step instructions, outlines the basic folds and there are lots of diagrams. Of course if you have a question you can always leave me a comment here. 
This card was finished by layering the folded medallion onto printed script style paper and then a layer of the gold paper. The greeting is a Stampin' Up greeting and then simply punched out.  This is a card that could be used for multiple reasons and seasons, perhaps even a Christmas greeting. Watch for Christmas inspiration coming soon! Hope you like the simplicity of this card. 
Creatively yours,
Sharon

From Card to Home Decor!

Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Two areas of paper crafting that I really enjoy are cardmaking and home decor projects. Well for this project I made use of a card that I had created for a recent CardMaker newsletter article -- From Trash to Treasured Cards, not only were the flowers created using an old phone book, Spellbinders scallop dies and inks, but now I have also repurposed the card into a home decor piece. I layered the card onto beautiful embossed daisy paper and then placed the project into an Ikea frame. So, go take a look at your collection of cards, maybe some of them would make a perfect home decor piece. Time and time again I look at wall decor pieces in the store and say "I can make that" and I never take the time out to do it, so this was a step in the right direction. There is hope for me yet!  Enjoy!
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Stamped card with Background Technique

Card Design © Sharon M. Reinhart

Hi All! Well I am working with my stamps and inks again and I love this background technique it is super simple. All you need is an acrylic block, the type used with cling and/or clear stamps, distress inks, mister with water and white cardstock. Apply the distress inks direct to the clear block from the ink pad. Dab and swoosh the inks (technical terms of course). Apply inks from lightest to darkest in order to minimize color contamination of your ink pads. The colors used on this card are peeled paint, faded jeans and vintage photo. Spritz the ink with water, then press it onto white cardstock. This technique works wonderfully on watercolor paper as well! A quick and easy water-color or direct to paper background! The stamp image is from Crafty Individuals (Magenta). For the flowers, I learned this trick from a friend, thanks Nancy for sharing! Purchase the flowers from the wedding section from Michaels and then to custom color simply use your Bic Mark It pens, Tombows or Copics, or even inks and sprays, it's as easy as that. The Bic Mark It pens were used in this card. Hope you enjoy this creation!
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Happy Birthday Card



Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Happy Birthday to all of you born on 8/8 and those born on 8/8/88 like my youngest daughter for whom this card was created. Yes, back to handmade flowers, (cannot get enough of them) however using a different die. This time I used the pinked circles die from Spellbinder's, it worked beautifully, creating a carnation style flower. The leaves are from ProvoCraft - love them, I think this one had three different dies in the set. The border was created with a Fiskars border punch.
Quick post today - some simple inspiration!
Enjoy!
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Elegant Wedding Congrats Card!



It is that time of year where many of us find ourselves in need of wedding or shower cards. I have chosen to share this one as it is quick and easy and utilizes an inexpensive object found at a dollar store. Which object do you think that is? You may have guessed it, the wire heart. But do you know what its intended purpose is? It along with its partner used to be earrings. Yes, I could have wire wrapped my own piece and usually do make alot of my embellishments by hand, but this time it really was more feasible to use this embellishment. Just remove the earring wire and insert a crystal brad. Of course the beautiful papers in this card also add to the elegance. The base card is charcoal shimmer card stock. The congrats was die cut and adhered to the card then the card front was embossed using an embossing folder. Beautiful printed chiyogami papers from the Japanese Paper Place were used on a square of coaster board for added dimension, then the embellishment was layered on top. To finish the design the panel was then layered onto a die cut label from Spellbinder's. I love the color pallette in this card and the Chiyogami paper - so much so that I used this color combination and papers to create a tea bag folded design in my most recent book Tea Bag Folding Through The Seasons, just click on the photo at the top right for access to view some of the designs in this book. If you are in the Calgary area, Paper Pastimes carries a wide variety of beautiful Chiyogami papers that I am sure you will love!  Hope you like this card!
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Stamping Inspiration!

I was sorting through some things and came across this card from my past. I remember making this card for a class and I just loved how it turned out. When I first started making cards I started as a rubber stamping enthusiast, I still have a love for rubber stamping but for many other techniques and mediums as well. This particular card utilized vellum, chiyogami paper, pearl paper, threads and of course a rubber stamp. The image was stamped on vellum with permanent ink (Memories Artprint Brown) and then stamped again on pearl card stock and heat embossed with gold. The color of the cardstock on the embossed image was removed in specific areas by painting bleach onto the surface. The image was trimmed around and adhered onto the scroll using foam mounting tape. Paper beads made with the same Chiyogami paper that is layered on the card, adorn the edges of a wooden skewer  at top left and right and another bead with threads at the center bottom. The reason I am sharing this card with you is that it was one of my favorites but also because some techniques and cards are timeless. It can also be a useful tool to revisit some of the techniques you have used in the past especially if you are in need of some inspiration. Hope this card inspires you to create!
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Tea Bag Folded Recycled Treasure!



Card Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Well, I am at it again - recycling that is!  I used one of my favorite papers to create this tea bag folded medallion - the inside of security envelopes!  They have a variety of patterns and colors.  This tea bag folded medallion also has another twist.  I have used a squash fold and then to give a bit more dimension I gently curled the points on the top layer - just like you would curl a ribbon.  The layers are created using Spellbinder's Labels Twenty One die set and also the Stampin' Up Square Lattice embossing folder.  This folder creates a wonderful textured card stock out of regular card stock - it looks quite substantial.  A glitter brad and a few rhinestones as well as the Inspirational Words Border stamp from Crafty Individuals (Magenta) and my card is complete.  If you would like to learn more about Tea Bag folding check out my most recent book Tea Bag Folding Through the Seasons by clicking on the cover shot at the top right.  Also if you would like to add recycling techniques to your card making please visit the Cardmaker online newsletter From Trash to Treasured Cards July 11, 2011 issue - it's free, sign up today.
That's all for this post - Enjoy!
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Congrats! Iris Fold Card

Card Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Congratulations is one of those multi purpose greetings that can be used for a variety of special occasions. I created this card for a couple who were recently married in Mexico - hope they like it!  However, this card would also be perfect for a shower, birth of a child, new job, and graduation to name a few. The card was created using an Iris Folding Technique however instead of folding the strips in the traditional way I simply cut them into half inch strips, the solid color strip is a quilling strip. If you are looking for further info on Iris Folding please check out my second book Iris Folding For Christmas by clicking on the photo to the right.  Keep in mind although the designs in this book are Christmas designs it is easy to create cards for other occasions by simply using different papers.
I created the flourish on the corners by die-cutting a fancy tag and then cut it in half and attached it over the corners on the frame. So if you are into using what you have - most people are, use printed papers that coordinate and for the texture on the white frame I cut two pieces of plastic canvas and placed my frame in between then ran it through my Big Shot Machine to emboss.
The materials used in creating this card are a Frame die by Sizzix (I use this one often), Fancy Tags Die Three & Petite Oval Small Die by Spellbinder's, printed papers by Black Market Paper Society (sorry I am not sure that this paper is current I was using leftovers today), brown cardstock, white pearl cardstock, rubber stamp by My Sentiment's Exactly, Chestnut Roan Fluid Chalk ink by Clearsnap and the final touch are a few rhinestones. If you have not tried Iris Folding I encourage you to give it a go.  It truly is not as complicated as it looks. If you are looking for classes or interested in purchasing further design instructions please leave me a comment.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Life - Home Decor Project

I find myself drawn to sayings and quotes and often I like to create home decor projects with some of my favorites.  This little home decor project is quick to put together.  The frame is a wood block frame from Michaels which has ben painted and then printed cardstock adhered to the front. There are a couple of ways to adhere the paper.  One is to cut the paper in a square the same size as the frame, adhere it to the frame with a strong adhesive, craft glue or red liner tape. Then cut out the middle section using a craft knife or scissors. The other method is to place the frame right side down onto the wrong side of the paper, trace the outside and inside, cut out and then adhere. I always like to sand all the edges lightly then apply ink to the edges. In this project I have used Tim Holtz Vintage Photo distress ink by Ranger.
The quote is a pre printed quote on vellum (not sure if this exact one is still available) that has been layered onto solid color card stock. Embellish as desired. I have used metal letters, glass mosaic tiles, ribbon, a silk flower and a brad. This is a quick project that would be a perfect gift as well.  Enjoy!
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Recycled and Repurposed Cards!

 Design by Sharon M. Reinhart

Here is a peek at one of the cards you can find in my most recent newsletter for Cardmaker Magazine. If you are looking for inspiration and ideas for ways to recycle and repurpose within your own cardcrafting adventures head on over to CardMaker magazine's July 11th online newsletter. Bet you can't guess what the flowers are made from - its a wonderful resource and a definite way to recycle, check out the newsletter for the answer.
Another new item that I have used in this card is a scallop chipboard frame from a company called Globecraft Memories. I love the quality of the chipboard, it is sturdy and takes inks and paints beautifully. 
Until next time,
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Evermore Thanks Card

Card Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Thanks for sticking with me, I know it has been awhile. I hope you enjoy this creation made with Pink Paislee's Butterfly Garden - Nature Sancturary Paper. It is a beautiful print and perfect for the addition of handmade flowers. The flowers have been created with the Pink Paislee printed cardstock along with fancy ivory paper from The Paper Company. I love making my own handcrafted flowers - can you tell, they keep appearing on my creations. Simply die cut scallop shapes, I used the Spellbinder's Big Scalloped Circles SM die #2 (#1 being the smallest). Lightly mist the scallop circles and then gently crumple and unfold.  From there stack the layers together (anywhere from 5 - 7 layers if creating with papers and cardstocks and not tissue). Pierce the center, insert brad and fold back prongs. One layer at a time crumple up and inwards to create a tight bud. Lightly mist with water or you might like to try the new Fireworks! craft ink sprays from Tsukineko. I completed a designer challenge project for the Be Inspired event (which is now sold out) for the CHA summer show in Chicago in which these sprays were used - loved them. They have beautiful color as well as shimmer. Once the tight bud has dried, gently manipulate the petals open until you have achieved your desired effect then sponge edge of petals with ink. The greeting on this card is a Penny Black stamp.

If you are looking for inspiration on how to recycle and repurpose within your card crafting check out the CardMaker Magazine online newsletter going live on July 11th. It is a free newsletter, so sign up and it will be delivered to your inbox. Hope you gather some new ideas from it. Also look for the Card Making Around The House feature in the magazine available at newstands or by download.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Challenge Yourself to Create!

©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Today I challenged myself to create just because - without a specific job or individual in mind. The other challenge I gave myself was to create and use some of the many papers I now have in a pile with the sign "for personal use only, may not be current". These are still beautiful papers but they are not the latest and greatest and editors really want us to use whats available to the readers and rightly so. It's too bad that product lines have to change because some of the papers I have fallen in love with over the years are no longer available.  Alas, we must be open to change.  So here we go.  I created this journal using a lined journal from the bins at Michaels, the flourish was cut using a Sizzix Tim Holtz die using cardboard from an oatmeal box and then colored with ink.  The sentiment is a preprinted one on vellum however you could print your own using the computer.  Or perhaps use one of the lovely sentiment stamps from Quietfire Design - Suzanne is a very talented calligrapher, I encourage you to take a look at her product line.  I used the lacey oval and sunflower set from Spellbinder's to create the sentiment frame and sunflower.  The handmade flower in the center of the brown sunflower was created using the jumbo scallop small circle dies.  Add a little bling and Voila!  I think this would make a great token of appreciation for someone special, or perhaps I have just created my first Christmas or hostess gift!  It's always nice to be ahead of the game.  Now if you don't wish to make a journal, use this design as inspiration or a sketch so to speak for a square card.  Hope you like it!  I challenge you to challenge yourself today!
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Paper Napkins for Cards

©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Hi All!  I am posting part of this card again here as I neglected to tell you how it was made. The images look like they were stamped and then colored beautifully with markers. Well I cannot take credit for the coloring, the images are from a beautiful printed paper napkin. Begin by removing the extra ply from the napkin, sometimes there are two extra layers so be sure to remove them. To get it started you might want to try using a straight pin - be patient, it will work. From there I apply my chosen section to a sticker or label sheet. Then I adhered the panel to a piece of coaster board and trim into tile shapes. Voila!  It's that simple. The branch style embossing was creating using an embossing folder on Coredinations cardstock and then sanded. If you haven't tried this technique I encourage you to.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Thanks So Much!

Happy Father's Day to all the Dad's out there!  Enjoy your day! 

©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

I want to extend my sincere appreciation to the staff at Scrapbooker's Paradise, we had a wonderful event yesterday!  It is also days like yesterday that remind me of how truly blessd I am.  I was so pleased to see so many of you who have participated in many of my classes over the years come out yesterday to participate in our make and take and book signing.  Heartfelt thanks!  Your support and enthusiasm is truly appreciated!  Also, to the ladies who I had the opportunity of meeting for the first time yesterday - it was a pleasure!  For those of you who purchased my book I hope you get many hours of enjoyment from creating the projects and for those of you who were unable to purchase a copy because we sold out please check back with Scrapbooker's on the status of their order. Until next time ...
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Multiply your Card Designs!



©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

Sometimes we find ourselves in need of a design for a card and the ideas just don't seem to be flowing. Keep in mind that you do not have to re-invent the wheel each time.Often, all it takes is to choose a previous design and change it slightly by switching the papers, using a different color combination or altering the greeting. This can be seen in the design which I will be teaching at a complimentary make and take session at the Calgary Scrapbooker's Paradise south store on June 18th from 11 am to 3 pm in promotion of my newest book Tea Bag Folding Through the Seasons. 

©Sharon M. Reinhart 2011

The red and green card is the one that will be offered on Saturday, however, the green and yellow design is the same design just different papers and a different greeting. So the next time you are in need of a creative nudge, look to some of your past creations and allow them to inspire you. Hope to see you at my book signing and make and take on Saturday.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Dad's Day!

Project Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart & Globecraft Memories

Father's Day is just around the corner - Sunday June 19th actually. With that in mind I thought I would share a project that I have been working on. I have been working with products from Globecraft Memories, their products consist of layered globe frames perfect for displaying treasures, artwork and photos. The quality of the product is superb and I have been having fun working on a variety of themes. This one shown here is in honor of all the Dad's out there, past, present & future! We love you and thank-you for all that you are and do! 
Two of the chipboard frames have been covered with beautiful papers from My Minds Eye and the middle frame has been painted with antique gold acrylic paint. I added a photo from years gone by along with a pocket watch treasure and metallic stickers to accent the corners. This is a perfect system to use when creating items to honor our loved ones or the different milestones in our lives. However, I am also going to use it to showcase some tea bag folding designs - no more dusting layers of papers and tiny fingers won't be able to change my design - perfect. I will be sure to post a photo when it is done.  Until next time ...
Creatively yours,
Sharon