Delicate Paper Snowflakes

These 26 paper snowflakes were created to honor the staff and students of Sandy Hook school. The PTA had put out a call for snowlfakes so that they could transform the new school that students of Sandy Hook will be attending in January into a Winter Wonderland. I believe they have accomplished their goal, as today when I went to the web site to retrieve the address to ship my snowflakes, they had a new note stating that with regret they had to close this project for further donations of snowflakes as they have been overwhelmed with donations. So, my little snowflakes will be donated instead here at home to a project involving children or schools. So, if you too are like myself, I encourage you to visit this site to find out other ways your snowflakes can be used to honor the community of people at Sandy Hook school and help others. http://www.ctpta.org/SANDY-HOOK-FUND.html

If you wish to create snowflakes like the ones shown above for your own creative projects -- ornaments, tags, gift packaging, or cards.  Here are some brief instructions:
1.  Cut out snowflake of choice by hand or using a punch or cutting system. The snowflakes shown here have been created using a Spellbinder'sTM template.
2.  Next cut a scallop shape, one that has an even number of scallops, this scallop circle is 1 3/8-inches. Tape metallic thread to back, wrap thread through the valley of one scallop, count 7 valleys to the right and wrap thread through this valley. Wrap thread around back of shape and to the right of the first wrap. Continue wrapping in this manner until two threads appear in each valley. Adhere thread to the back and trim. Place an adhesive rhinestone to the center. Adhere to one side of the snowflake. Complete an additional thread wrap scallop and adhere to the opposite side of the snowflake.
3.  Finish the snowflake by applying Stickles glitter glue randomly to the snowflake.

As a new year is quickly approaching I would like to take this time to wish you and yours all the best and may 2013 be filled with good health and happiness. Life is as delicate as snowflakes, and just like snowflakes, each persons life and path is different.  I do hope the common denominator will be kindness and compassion. Have a safe and happy New Year!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Holidays & New Iris Folding Book!

Where did the month of December go? Unfortunately, between a lingering month long cold and some personal and family commitment's I blinked my eyes and December had marched on without me. As I truly enjoy this time of year it was my hope to post and provide lots of inspiration for cards, favors, packaging etc. Alas, this was not in life's plans for me this year. That being said I do truly count my blessings of which I have many, and my heart and prayers go out to all who are experiencing hardship, loss and difficulties at this time. 
I hope that however you celebrate the holidays that you were able to wrap yourself in some precious moments spent with family and friends! 
I know you stopped here to experience something creative so I thought I would share with you a sneak peek of the cover of my most recent book, scheduled to be released in February. It is a collection of Iris Folded Cards celebrating Life's Special Moments. Watch for more info in the future.


Book & images ©Annie's

As we are approaching a new year I would like to extend my Best Wishes to each of you and it is my hope in this coming year to provide you with regular inspiration through these posts. Lets hope that 2013 is a great year and one filled with kindness, compassion, good health and happiness!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Quick & Easy Christmas Card!

Project design © Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

If you are madly finishing up your Christmas Cards and looking for a quick and easy design, this card is it. Simply layer decorative paper onto the card front, add a punched border strip at left side followed by some rich velvet ribbon and a sheer ribbon accent at the top. The main focus is the beautiful layered snowflake - a SpellbindersTM snowflake die, they have quite a few to choose from. A sparkling rhinestone accents the center of the snowflake and then pick one of your favorite greetings to convey your message.


The inside does have a pocket created from the same papers as used on the front. This pocket is great for a gift card, money, or the annual family Christmas letter. You can always skip the pocket for a simple greeting. Hope you like this design and look for future posts on Christmas tags, decor and party favors using your paper crafting supplies.

Creatively Yours,

Sharon



 



Christmas Cards & Inspiration!

Project designs ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

I would like to invite you to head over to Cardmaker Magazine's most recent newsletter. I am sharing some Christmas card designs as well as how to take inspiration from one design to create other items such as party favors, packaging, ornaments, etc. The newsletter is a free resource that if you sign up will go directly to your inbox every three weeks. Hope you like it!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Christmas Angel Ornament

Thought I would stray from cards for this post and share an angel ornament. These ornaments are a breeze to make and great for use as ornaments, gift package decor or even as a beautiful accent on a bottle of wine or sparkling juice.
To begin, purchase the felt ornaments from Michaels (3 for 1.50). Then create an accordion rosette, for this rosette the Tim Holtz die was used. Layer a plastic glittered snowflake on top and then finish with a word accent in the center. Dec. 25th was punched from printed cardstock and layered in the center of the plastic snowflake. To cover the glued area on the back, punch a 1 1/2-inch cardstock circle and adhere to the back. To assemble most of these pieces together I found the use of a hot glue gun made for a quick fix. This ornament could also double as a card by temporarily attaching to a card front. Hope you like it!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Christmas Card Inspiration!

Project design ©Sharon M. Reinhart

As promised, here is my card inspired by the Festive Decor Piece shown on the left and posted on November 1st. Instead of re-inventing the wheel I chose elements from the original canvas piece for use on my card. The die-cut letters on the card were inspired by the wooden JOY element (covered with printed cardstock) on the canvas. I used the tea bag fold medallion to represent the O in the word Joy and layered it onto a die-cut shape. The corner motif was accented further with the same glitter glue used on the brads in the center of the tea-bag folded medallions. The final element is the stamped word. So if you find yourself scrambling for design ideas for cards, take a look at some of the other pieces you have made and use elements of it on your cards. My next CardMaker newsletter which goes live on November 26th is all about Christmas Cards and Decor and encouraging you to get more mileage from you designs by using elements of one design to create something else.  I hope you will head to CardMaker magazine and sign up for the free newsletter. The current issue is by Kimber McGray and its all about adding texture to your cards. Check back soon for more holiday creations!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Lest We Forget

Festive Decor!

Project design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

Where does time go! Sorry for my absence. Life was a bit topsy turvy for awhile. Hopefully we are back on track. Onwards and upwards! Also, to all, whose lives have been affected by the horrific storm - Sandy, my thoughts and prayers are with you!
To bring some cheer to the day I thought I would share this festive canvas decor. Initially the wooden JOY piece was going to be an ornament or piece that could be hung on the wall and then I decided to incorporate a small canvas into the picture. These canvases are perfect for this type of decor, it is one of those Can Do Art childrens canvas that has a pre-printed picture on it. Once its painted or paper has been adhered you don't even know. The wooden word has been covered with an Echo Park paper (I don't believe it is still available.) There are however a variety of music score papers out right now that would work wonderfully, some are on cream backgrounds but you could easily change that with the use of sprays or light washes of watercolor or thinned acrylic paint. Yes, that is a tea bag folded medallion in the center created using the basic circle technique. If you would like to learn more about paper folding check out the free previews for my Fabulous Paper Folds online class! Add a stamped word, a bit of ribbon and some pretty corner die-cut pieces placed together (Heartfelt Creations/Spellbinders) and you are done. If you are looking for card inspiration I challenge you to use this piece somewhat like a card sketch or inspiration piece and create a card.  I will work on this challenge as well, be sure to check out my next post to see what I have come up with. Enjoy!
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Card Making using Acrylic Paints!

Project Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart
 

Yes! Acrylic paints! If you would like to learn how to create these projects above, see complete views of each project, and learn more about using acrylic paints in your card making adventures, I encourage you to visit my most recent CardMaker online newsletter. It is a free service, once you sign up it goes directly to your inbox every three weeks. Kimber McGray and myself are the editors and alternate the writing of these newsletter issues. We would love for you to join us on our adventures through card making!
Products used are from Quietfire Design, Globecraft Memories & PiccoloTM, Stampendous, Spellbinder's Paper ArtsTM, Stamp Barn/Frogs Whiskers, Folk Art acrylic paints, ProvoCraft Cuttlebug.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Christmas Gift Card Holder

Project Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart

Happy World Cardmaking Day!  To celebrate, I have chosen to share this quick and easy gift card holder with you.  Hope you like it!
I have used the following materials: ivory pearl and gold cardstocks, green and brown cardstock, Hero Arts sentiment stamp, Chalk ink olive pastel and chestnut roan, Wonderfil thread, EK Success star punch, Cuttlebug embossing folder, SpellbindersTM Lacey Pennant and Labels One die sets, Standard Circle die or circle punch, scissors, double-sided tape, foam mounting tape, bone folder, die-cutting system.
The base card is created from a 4 x 10-inch piece of cardstock. Score at 3-7/8, 5 and 6-1/8 inches.   Fold in half. Use label die placed partially on center fold approx. 1/4-inch, cut following manufacturer's directions. Apply double-sided tape between the two remaining score lines but not on the edges that have been die-cut, adhere. This area will serve as the gift card holder.  Emboss front cover using embossing folder. 

Die-cut scallop triangle shape using pennant die. Cut a small slit in the valleys between the scallops at the bottom left and right. Working from the spool of thread, tape thread to the back. Carry thread around to the front through one of the previously cut slits. Wrap thread diagonally up one side of the tree (pennant shape), cross at the top and wrap diagonally working down the tree. Finish by wrapping thread through the remaining previously cut slit, secure with tape at the back. Cut a small rectangle from brown cardstock, adhere to the back at center bottom to create the trunk. Punch star and adhere to the top of the tree. Stamp sentiment and punch or die cut. Edge with ink. Adhere sentiment to card using foam mounting tape. Don't forgt to insert desired gift card, money, bookmark, coupon or whatever you want to include.  Stickles glitter glue is a nice finishing touch on some of the embossed designs (not shown in this photo).  Hope you will explore the World Cardmaking Day blog tour, click on the link below.  If you are a new visitor to this blog don't forget to check out the Fabulous Paper Folds online class using the link at the right side!  Thanks for visiting!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

World Card Making Day!

click on the link above

World Card Making Day is quickly approaching - Saturday October 6, 2012 and they are having a huge blog tour to celebrate.  Head on over to the Blog Tour to check it out or add your blog. My blog is #179 - told you it was a huge tour. I will have a Christmas gift card holder with complete instructions on my Saturday October 6th post in order to celebrate!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Birthday Step Card

Project design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

Thought I would share this little step or staircase card that I made for my daughter's birthday. My favorite part is the medallion/rosette on the front. I just love the Tilda Swirl Memory Box die and for the accordion rosette I used a Tim Holtz die. This combination would also be beautiful for Christmas cards or ornaments. The stamps used are from a variety of companies - Party is from Unity (it has 3 or 4 of the word party stacked on top of each other, I only used one. Birthday Wishes is from Gina K.  Love in the center of the accordion rosette is an old Hero Arts stamp and Lots of Hugs (which is not fully visible) I believe is a Ditto stamp??. I will be sure to share some of the Christmas themed projects that were inspired by this card in a future post. There are many different staircase or step cards out there in the craft world, do a google search and you will find center step cards, etc.
Enjoy!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Cards - Back to School style



Project designs ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

I wanted to share with you the topic of my last Cardmaker newsletter - using school supplies to create cards! Can you guess what the circular pattern on the wish card was created with?  How were the blooms created? Head on over to the Cardmaker's September 3rd, 2012 issue to find out and learn more about these fun cards. This newsletter is a free resource, so sign up while you are there in order to have this wonderful resource go straight to your inbox. The next newsletter coming out is by Kimber McGray on September 24th. There is a new issue every three weeks - Kimber and myself are the editors of the newsletter and alternate the writing. There is also an archive of past newsletters packed full of useful and inspiring samples, free projects and information. The stamps used in these cards above are from Quietfire Design, Dyan Reavely, Invoke Arts and Unity Stamp Company.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

 

PIA Creative Arts Convention!

I recently had the opportunity to teach at the Paint In Alberta Creative Arts Convention. What a talented group - instructors and participants! I had the pleasure of teaching two classes and conducting a demo as well. My class participants were fantastic! Thank you ladies! I truly enjoyed sharing my projects with you. Unfortunately, I did not get to take complete group photos, several participants are missing from this one, if you are one of the MIA - my apologies.

A big thanks to Quietfire Design for providing the checkerboard corner stamp which was used in the Take Time mixed media class - the participants loved it and loved the fact that it is unmounted and perfect for working on canvases or paper crafts! I encourage you to check out the wonderful product line that the talented Suzanne Cannon has created at Quietfire Design!
Also, a big thanks to Pat Secrist from Globecraft Memories for providing the great scalloped chipboard oval for the Joy card/home decor class - wonderful quality of product.  Globecraft has a wide product line from acrylic domes to delicate die-cut shapes perfect for a variety of crafts, you will definitely want to visit Globecraft Memories site for lots of inspiration! 
What a wonderful way to spend a weekend, surrounded by creativity and creative people!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Creative Arts Convention!

 

Project Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart
Class # 228 Note: letters will be cardstock

Project Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart
Class #339



The excitement is building! The Paint In Alberta Creative Arts Convention is just around the corner, September 12th thru the 16th at the Deerfoot Inn and Casino in Calgary, Alberta. I am thrilled to be teaching two classes at this event - Joy Card/Home Decor and Take Time Mixed Media Canvas. There are many talented instructors offering some wonderful classes! A wide variety of classes are available, from painting to Zen Tangles® and everything in between. I encourage you to take a look and register to be a part of this exciting event. There are even day passes so head to Paint In Alberta for further information. The photos in this post are the classes that I am teaching, as well I will be doing a demonstration "Technique Buffet" on Saturday September 15th, techniques that would be suitable for card crafting, scrapbooking, home decor projects and even gift packaging.  Hope to see you there!

Creatively Yours,

Sharon



 


The Winner Is ...

Online class project & image ©Annie's

Another fun card!  You can learn the technique in the online Fabulous Paper Folds video class and also download the complete instructions for this card!
Thanks to those who have left comments here and also to those who have liked, pinned, or shared in some fashion the info about the Fabulous Paper Folds class through Annies. Also, a big thanks to those I have heard from who have purchased the class. I hope you enjoy it and are inspired to create!  Remember, if you have any questions you do have access to the instructor -- that's a feature of the classes. If you have not seen the previews just use this link to Annie's online classes - while you are there you can also like or pin the class as well.
Now onto the winner! After a random drawing the winner of a signed copy of Tea Bag Folding Through The Seasons is ... Sheryl H.   Sheryl please email me so that I may get your shipping info. Congratulations!  and again thanks to everyone for the comments and just sharing the news!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Fabulous Paper Folds!

It's so exciting! A new page is up at Annie's online classes which allows viewers to preview and learn more about the new online classes available. To celebrate this, if you head to Annie's and then return here and leave a comment about the online class page and classes I am going to draw one lucky name randomly and the winner will receive a signed copy of my book Tea Bag Folding Through The Seasons. The opportunity to enter your comment and name will stay open until midnight (MDT) Saturday September 8th. The name will be drawn and announced on Sunday September 9th. The photo I am sharing today is a group photo of some of the projects that are available as downloads in this class. The techniques to complete the folds on these cards is shared within the video. Don't forget you have access to each instructor if you need further assistance. I sure hope you will head on over to Annie's online classes and check this exciting new resource out!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Online Class Inspiration!

Project and image ©Annie's

As September 1st is the scheduled launch of Annie's online classes I will be providing a few sneak peeks of some of the projects that can be created using the techniques taught in my Fabulous Paper Folds class (yes, that is now the official title) This creation also involves a tea bag folding technique that can be used on cards, scrapbook pages, canvases, gift packaging and tags.  You could even use the tea bag folded tree as ornaments on a full size tree.  The possibilities are endless!  For more info on the Fabulous Paper Folds class head on over to Annie's online classes.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Countdown to Fabulous Paper Folds - Annie's

Project image ©Annie's

Well, we are on countdown mode for the launch of this exciting new feature that Annie's is bringing your way. Again, I am so thrilled to have been asked to be a part of this new creative adventure!  My class is called Fabulous Paper Folds and in this class we cover tea-bag folding, iris folding and some specialty fun folds which I am sure you will love! This class is packed full of techniques and then there are also 16 cards that utilize these techniques. As part of your class you can download the complete instructions. The other great thing, is a special feature of this class - you will have access to the instructor if you have any questions about the class or projects, its like we will actually be in class together! I am thrilled to share a sneak peek with you of one of the card projects that involves the tea bag folding technique - yes! you will learn this tea bag fold and how to assemble the medallion! I encourage you to head on over to Annie's online classes and sign up for the free email alerts on these exciting new classes!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Online classes with Annie's and Sharon!

I have some exciting news to share with you today! Annie'sTM (the same company that produces CardMaker Magazine, publisher of my books about Iris & Tea Bag Folding as well as many other wonderful magazines, books and products) is getting set to launch their online classes! I would like to invite you to sign up today to be one of the first to get email alerts, limited-time discount for a class and to be notified when new classes are available. This sign up for information about the classes is free. There are presently 10 different classes available that cover a variety of crafting techniques and mediums. Guess what (you might have guessed it by the photo above) I am so thrilled to announce that one of those classes is mine! The Fabulous Paper Folds class. Happy dance time! Yes, I have had to keep this info from you for awhile but have just been given the go ahead to invite you to this first stop at Annie'sTM.  Now, please keep in mind the previews are not yet available but you can be first in line to be notified by visiting the site using the Annie'sTM link above.

I hope this now explains somewhat why I haven't been posting quite as regularly as I would like to. Between the online video class, my book, the CardMaker newsletter, other projects and life responsibilities, time has been somewhat limited - but I have enjoyed all of these projects and the video was a great experience! The video crew was comprised of some very talented, professional and wonderful people! Everybody at Annie's has been a true pleasure to work with. My heartfelt thanks to all of the Annie's team! I will share more info about this exciting new resource and my connection in future posts.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Thanks!

Project design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

I find that Thankyou cards are ones that I should create a bunch of and have on hand.  It never fails that I need one and often on a need it now basis and I don't have one. So like some of you do with Christmas cards I think Thankyou cards assembly line fashion could also be a great project. Now, I know it is sometimes hard to keep making the same card over and over, so keep in mind that assembly line does not have to be all one card. Create a couple designs or use the same materials and switch it up just a little bit. Often by just changing the card size/orientation or placement of elements it breaths new life into a design. This delicate card is simple to make, it uses tea-bag folding techniques, layering of papers, a Fiskars border punch, bit of bling and the sentiment is created with an embossing folder. There is a fair amount of white space but I am not adverse to that, at times it is refreshing and relaxing.
And speaking of Thanks - I want to thank each of you who visit my blog/website, purchase my books and attend my classes and events! Your support is truly appreciated!!
I am on countdown mode - finishing up my next book and I should be able to announce some exciting news on Monday August 13 as long as I receive the go ahead. Fingers crossed!
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Adding Ribbon to Cards

My newest edition of the Cardmaker Newsletter went live today and I invite you to take a look. We are talking about adding ribbon to cards and this edition includes a new resource to the newsletters -- video tutorials! Included in this issue is a wonderful video tutorial by Robin Arnold on how to create a faux bow, it is a great resource for paper crafters! Head on over to Cardmaker's newsletter! While you are there don't forget to sign up so that it automatically goes to your inbox. It's a free resource and there are two of us alternating the writing of the newsletters. This issue is by yours truly and the next one will be written by Kimber McGray. I am sure you will enjoy this wonderful info and inspiration resource!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Cheery Card with Special Folds!

I love these dies from Spellbinder's TM (Shapeabilities® Cut, Fold & Tuck) - it definitely saves time and labor. Not so long ago I was cutting each area by hand using a metal template and craft knife. If you have not tried these dies you are going to love them! Thought I would share this cheery card with you, it includes two great card making techniques, the cut, fold & tuck technique using these great dies, and tea bag folding. I think they work wonderfully together! This looks like a time consuming card, but it's not. The printed paper from Echo Park is beautiful paired with the Stardreams lagoon text weight paper and the pearl brad from American Crafts is the perfect finishing accent. I hope you like it!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Mini Canvas Decor

My apologies for being gone so long. I will have exciting news to share soon, that will explain my absence. In the meantime I thought I would share these mini canvases. I have these on display in my family room. So if you decide to create them, choose a color that compliments your decor or the recipient's decor. These were created with a stencil effect at the right and a rubber stamp at the left.  Some embossed metal (actually a pizza pan) that has been distressed with craft paint, word rubber stamps from magnetic poetry and some chipboard letters. They look better displayed in one row accordion style but for the photo I thought this worked. The canvas are approximately 5" square - I used kids canvases from Michaels with the drawings on them, jut paint over it! The stamp was an architectural style of stamp and further lines were created with the edge of an ink pad. Many of these techniques would work equally as well on cards and paper crafts. This was a fun project and at one time was being considered by a company for product development but alas that did not become a reality -- oh well, I still enjoy them in my home. Hope you do as well.

Cardmaking with Alcohol Inks

Project Designs ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

My apologies for not posting more frequently -- I am on some major deadlines recently. Working on my next book and some other exciting projects! Will fill you in on the other exciting projects when I have been given the go ahead to do so. So for todays quick post I would like to invite you to try working with alcohol inks if you haven't done so before and maybe you have but they are now collecting dust. Well pull them out, dust them off and have some creative fun. My most recent e-newsletter with Cardmaker Magazine went live on June 11th, it's all about alcohol inks! There is also one card in the article that would be perfect for Father's Day! The creations above are from that issue and for more info please use this link and head on over to CardMaker magazine -- it's a free resource so why not use it!
Have a great day!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Mixed Media Class



Project Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

                 

I am so excited to share this news with you! I am scheduled to teach two classes at the Paint In Alberta Creative Arts Convention being held at the Deerfoot Inn & Casino  in Calgary, September 13 to 16, 2012. I know its a bit early but I thought I would get you thinking about it.

This event has an exhibition attached to it as well, therefore there are also day rates which allow access into see the exhibits, demonstrations, make and takes & cash and carry classes. You must register for the event in order to register for classes that are listed in the catalogue. There is a one day or a two day registration which allows unlimited access to the exhibit hall.There are some wonderful classes and some truly amazing talent!

Here is the link to my Friday class -- Joy Greeting Card or Wall Decor #228, scroll to bottom of page(please note cardstock letters will be used in this project rather than metal letters)

http://www.c2cevents.com/Conventions/pia_2012/classfri.htm

and my Saturday class -- Take Time Mixed Media Decor #339, scroll to middle of page

http://www.c2cevents.com/Conventions/pia_2012/classsat.htm

I have linked two other helpful pages as well:

General info

http://www.c2cevents.com/Conventions/pia_2012/general.htm

Registration Form

http://www.c2cevents.com/Conventions/pia_2012/regform.htm



Project Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

I hope to see many of you that have been asking about my classes at this event. If you require any further info please do not hesitate to leave me a comment on this blog and I will be sure to answer.

Until next time have a great day!

Creatively Yours,

Sharon

Gratitude Card

I must apologize, I just realized that a recent post, (which has now been deleted) was a card I already shared with you. So to make up for it here is a card created with heat embossing, vellum and tombow markers.  the floral stamp is from Hero Arts and the lovely layers of course are created with Spellbinders TM dies. It was part of the trio for my April 30 issue of the CardMaker online newsletter. Just a quick post today -- life is spinning fast.
Creatively yours,
Sharon

Mother's Day Gift Inspiration!

Project Design based on project seen in Exquisite Embellishments for Paper Crafting published by Annies'Attic

Okay, I promise this is the last post for a bit about this new publication (Exquisite Embellishments for Paper Crafting), I so much wanted to share a project that did not get into the book, however the other three pieces of this ensemble did. You have seen the wood tote box (which is included in the book) however this journal is not included in the book. That takes me to the topic of using one design to inspire you to create other things. Somewhat like one card five ways, taking the same set of supplies and creating other things. Sometimes our creative well needs replenshing and this is one way to accomplish it. This little journal would make a perfect Mother's Day gift and card at the same time. Open it up and write your thoughts and wishes to your mom on the first page. Or, take inspiration from the design to make a square card. Most of the techniques needed to complete this journal are in the book. (sorry I am unable to share that info) For further info on this publication and to see more inspiring photos click on this link to Annie's Attic.
Wishing all the moms and moms-to-be a wonderful Mother's Day! May it be filled with happiness and sunshine! I know this wish is early, but I too plan on having a wonderful weekend and spending some quality time with my family, I hope you are blessed with the same!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

The Winners Are!

The Exquisite Embellishment blog hop has wrapped up. Thanks to all who stopped by and left your wonderful comments - you are the best! Keri (author) has announced the three winners on her blog which were chosen randomly, drumroll, the winners are: from Keri's blog Stephenie Smith, from Nina B's and Tami Mayberry's blogs Carole & Hawaiian Librarian.
Congratulations ladies!! Hope you enjoy the books!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Exquisite Embellishments Blog Hop!

Today is the launch of a wonderful new book published by Annie's Attic - Exquisite Embellishments for Paper Crafts TM.

This book is filled with beautiful projects created by some very talented designers, I am thrilled to be amongst their company. I was so pleased to see one of my projects on the cover, the decorated wood tote on the right, which by the way is from a three piece ensemble. The other two beautiful cover projects were created by Sherry Wright and Kandis Smith. Thanks Keri and Tanya for including my work in this beautiful publication!

As seen in Exquisite Embellishments for Paper Crafts published by Annie's Attic

Please join us for the Exquisite Embellishments blog hop and be sure to leave your comments at each stop, as three lucky winners will be drawn at random to receive a copy of this new publication! Comments will be left open from Friday through Monday and the draw for the winners will take place on Tuesday May 8, 2012. To order a copy of your own or as a wonderful gift, click on this link to Annie's Attic.

Keri Lee - http://www.pinklemonade.typepad.com

Linda - http://lovelylindascraftcentral.blogspot.com.au/
Sherry - www.sherrywright.typepad.com

Lori - http://www.loricraig.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com

Heidi - http://embellished-dreams.blogspot.com/

Kandis - www.mycreativetreasury.blogspot.com

Nina - http://ninabdesigns.blogspot.com/

Sharon - smrdesigns.blogspot.com  (you are presently here)

Melissa - lilybeanpaperie.typepad.com

Jessica - http://iembellish.blogspot.com/

Tami - http://tamimayberry.blogspot.com/

Teresa - http://paperieblooms.blogspot.com/

Jing Jing - http://thislittleartofmine.blogspot.com/
Thanks for stopping by!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Heat Embossed Cards

Project designs ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

I would like to invite you to head on over to Cardmaker's online newsletter, my most recent issue all about heat embossing went live on Monday April 30th. The photo above is just a little peak. Just a quick post today -- stay tuned though, exciting news tomorrow (Friday May 4th) and an opportunity to win a prize.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Tag Art for Mom!

Project Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

I thought I would share this tag that is beautiful on its own or would make a wonderful card. With Mother's Day quickly approaching this would be a great way to show Mom just how much you care. I created this tag as kits that I will be offering for sale at a fundraising crop that I am participating in. I donated my time and supplies to create a make and take with the ladies. This is not the make and take - still working on that one, guess I better hurry up and get it done. This project is created with a shipping style tag. The Sizzix postage stamp die paired with coaster board was used for the frame and book print paper for the flower which has been die cut with a Spellbinders die.  The music score background from Stampendous was stamped onto kraft color tissue paper and then layered onto the tag. Some brown and copper craft acrylic paint distressing and wire tendrils were added along with a stamped mini domino.  Three different styles of fibers are the finishing touch. Hope you like it!

Creatively Yours,

Sharon

A Card for the Guys!

Well I think I am getting ahead of myself. This is the card that I made for my DH for our anniversary. After taking a second look it would also be great for a Father's Day card which is the part I am getting ahead on-- posting Dad's day cards before Mom's day cards. I assure you that Mother's Day card samples will come, I promise.
This guys card uses metal duct tape that has been attached to cardstock and then embossed with this masculine embossing folder (gears and things). From there acrylic craft paint was applied and once dry the panel was lightly sanded. 
Just a quick post today - hope you like the card.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Always & Forever Wedding Card

Project design ©Sharon M. Reinhart

Sharing another card that we created in the wedding inspiration class. This one combines the ease of pressure embossing using a Cuttlebug embossing folder and thread wrapping techniques. The scalloped hearts were cut using the Spellbinders Nestabilities classic scalloped heart. The beautiful metallic thread is from Wonderfil. The use of embossing folders and die templates on assembly line style cards makes the process a whole lot quicker. The thread wrapping is not difficult at all -- you could put the entire wedding party to work on these, both the guys and the gals! For the thread wrapping be sure to work from the spool of thread if you cut a length of thread it will be tangled in no time. Tape the end of the thread to the back of the scallop shape. Wrap thread around the front just right of center then across the front and between the scallops at the bottom just left of center. Continue wrapping the thread in a clockwise manner until complete. Cut the thread from spool and adhere to back of piece.  Adhere one of the hearts with double sided tape to the card front and the other with foam mounting tape - two of my favorites are the Scotch foam mounting squares and the Tombow power tabs. I find that both of these products allow for my designs to have dimension but usually do not interfere with the mailing process. This card is a great style for a wedding invitation, shower invitation or an anniversary. Enjoy!
Creatiely Yours,
Sharon

Pocket Style Cards

Project Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

I recently taught a class to a group of ladies who were looking for ideas and inspiration for different styles of wedding/shower invitations. This pocket card is one of the cards we created. The pocket style enables you to generate the information on a seperate piece and insert it into the pocket. Or, it could be used as a Thankyou card as shown here.  Just stamp, write or computer-generate your sentiment or note on the insert piece. Two pocket bases can be created from one 12 inch piece of paper. The beautiful sentiment stamp is by the ever so talented Suzanne Cannon of Quietfire Design. She has many wonderful quotes and sayings completed beautifully with calligraphy as well as other images such as flourishes along with a variety of paper-crafting supplies.  I encourage you to check out her web site.  The roses were created using the spiral technique, you can find some step out photos in my CardMaker newsletter about creating flowers. The leaves were created using a Martha Stewart punch. As you can see this style of card is very versatile and would be perfect for thankyou notes, wedding invitations and save the dates, shower invites both wedding and baby, baby announcements, Sweet 16, and for almost any reason or season!
Enjoy!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Tea Bag Folded - Thankyou Card

I would like to invite you to take a look at my most recent CardMaker newsletter - it's about Tea-Bag Folding! These three cards were created using tea-bag folding techniques.  The top left card makes use of punched or die cut circles, the top right card is created by using a rubber stamp to create the papers and the bottom left card makes use of printed squares of paper folded and then layered onto a border punched square.  If you are interested in further designs please check out my book Tea Bag Folding Through the Seasons.

Here is a little design tip for varying sentiment images.  Simply pierce through the word to give a stitching effect.  I use a foam mouse pad for my piercing pad and I really like the Tonic retractable piercing tool.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Happy Birthday Card

Project Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

With the official first day of Spring right around the corner (March 20th) I thought this birthday card full of flowers would be great to share with you today. Unfortunately, I do not remember what company the paper is from - it is absolutely beautiful and actually inspired the card itself. A notched piece of turquoise paper is placed vertically and then a tag shape was cut from the printed paper and layered horizontally followed by all of the beautiful flowers layered on top. Some of the flowers were cut directly from the printed paper and the white flowers were stamped and thermal embossed with white on vellum/parchment (parchment is heavier than vellum) and then cut and layered.  I love to work with parchment paper due to the fact that it is heavier. It is great for pressure or thermal embossing techniques. White thermal embossing on the white parchment is quite striking, it almost gives a Pergamano® effect, a craft technique that is quite beautiful. The beautiful white flower is a stamp from Outlines. Flowers and a card all in one - these flowers do not require watering and will not wilt. The delicate greeting is from Stampin Up. I hope this inspires you to create something today, especially since the month of March is national crafting month.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Delicate Layers & Tea Bag Fold Card

I think the amount of snow we received the past couple days was the inspiration for this card. The snow glistens as if it has been dusted by glitter thus the glitter on this piece. The layers are like the layers of snow we now have and the finished piece could resemble a snowflake as well. This card is created by using the Fleur De Lis  Pendant die by SpellbindersTM, however any pendant die would work. Then the final part is a tea-bag fold creation in the center followed by a pretty pink brad. A couple of sparkling rhinestones can also be found here and there. To build the layers just use a dimensional tape in between, I do like to use the foam mounting tape or squares by 3M. The tea-bag folded rosette was created using a basic fold with circle shapes and then progressing on with a final fold back of the top layer. The basic fold is to fold the circle in half and then again into quarters. Unfold all, re-crease on both lines so very pliable. Holding the circle with the folds in an x shape, push center pieces under and into center to collapse into a pie shape. Fold back top layer aligning with edges (refer to photo).  You need 8 pieces to create one rosette. Then assemble by placing a small piece of tape on the back on one side (stay consistent to the same side), sandwiching one piece between the other. My favorite tape to use for this is the 1/8" wide Scor-tape. For more tea-bag folding projects and instructions please check out my book Tea Bag Folding Through the Seasons.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Paper Flower Favor



Project Design ©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

A quick post today to share one of my most favorite dies. It's the Spellbinders TM  Shapeabilities® Anemone die set! This project was originally for Valentine's  Day but it would also make a wonderful wedding or shower favor. It started with a silver tin that was dry brushed with white acrylic paint. Then two layers of the same size Anemone die followed by the petal style die (in the same set) and then the final layer a stamped letter. Be sure to curl the flower petals gently using a bone folder or wooden skewer. Hope you like it!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Butterfly Wishes All Occasion Card

©Sharon M. Reinhart 2012

My sincere apologies for being absent for so long! The road of life all of a sudden merged without notice from four lanes into one. I am sure many of you can relate.
To get back in to action here I have chosen to share a card that was inspired by the paper itself. This beautiful paper from Pink Paislee inspired the use of the Beautiful Wings Embosslits from Stampin Up and the Tim Holtz dress form die from Sizzix. The Cuttlebug Swiss Dots embossing folder by Provocraft added a beautiful texture to the dress form as well as mimicked the pattern in the paper layered beneath. The beautiful rhinestone flourishes that are so popular were the perfect compliment to the neckline on the dress form as well as for use on the butterflies. White crepe paper slightly gathered became the skirt along with a paper waistband complete with a butterfly embellishment. I purposely did not include a sentiment on the front of this card as I felt that it could be used for a variety of occasions and I wanted the design on the front to be the focus. Once chosen for a specific occasion I will include the sentiment on the inside.
Hope you like this project!
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Same Supplies three Valentines Cards!

I wanted to invite you to come on over to CardMakers online newsletter where I am sharing info on creating these three valentines from the same set of supplies. This is a great way to kick start the creative process. Choose a set of supplies and by changing the orientation, color layers, and placement of images, see how many different designs you can come up with. I know with life on fast forward at times we all need a method to create our greetings quickly and in an orderly fashion. I often have a difficult time with assembly line cards because I like to change it up, this method allows me to do that but also keeps my creative wanderings under control so that I may complete more cards in less time. So give it a try and head over to CardMaker magazine online newsletter February 6th issue for the how to on the cards shown in this post.
Creatively Yours,
Sharon

Back from CHA!

For those of you who are not familiar with CHA it stands for the Craft and Hobby Association. Twice yearly, Winter and Summer a huge trade show and conference is held. This winter the show returned to Anaheim, my favorite location. There is always a buzz around these shows, partly due to all of the new product launches but also the wonderful demonstrations, classes and displays that can be found. It truly is a creative feast. so my apologies for being MIA, I was madly preparing my designer showcase for CHA and then attending the show.

Dyan Reavely - Ranger CHA

Dyan Reaveley journal page in progress

One of my favorite demonstrations was by Dyan Reaveley a signature designer with Ranger. Her line with ranger is called Dylusions and it includes, spray inks, stamps and stencils. Art journaling has become very popular and Dyan makes it look so easy. Within minutes she created beautiful layers and textures in her moleskin art journal, however she says she uses any type of paper. Her demo was interesting, inspiring, educational and fun! Thanks Dyan, I have been inspired to create! Until next time I hope your adventures are creative as well! Creatively yours, Sharon.