What a Hoot!

Today I am featuring August's SOTM, which is What A Hoot because tomorrow is August 1st!

I just couldn't resist bundling this little guy up in some Snowhaven paper and Slate Diagonal Striped Ribbon for a scarf to wish you "happy owlidays".  I did some very careful cutting of the stamp set and then penned in the "idays" with our journaling pen.  I have a feeling he will be celebrating many occasions throughout the year.

 Now here might be a more traditional owl friend, out with the moon.  For this card I used the fabulous new Shin Han markers to color the owl and create highlights on the moon.  I stamped with the Archival Black Ink, and then used the new markers color body and wings in brown.  I then used the Shin Han "blending" pen to remove some color.  Removing the color from the wings allowed the cross hatch pattern to show.  I was surprised how well it worked!  The  Chalk It Up paper packet (brand new too) creates a starry night for this guy, highlighted with some new black epoxy stars.  (We have white ones too and you can color them with are markers to match any paper you like!)

More new product coming soon.  Contact me to see how you can receive your new Annual Inspirations Idea book 
 Michele

It's a Circus around here!

Spruce up your circus with this cute alphabet which is only available through July 31, 2014. 

I love the versatility, the option of upper and lower case, and the whimsical nature.  You can get this set for $17.95 or $5 with a qualifying purchase. 

Here are the two cards I created using this set.

Visit my website to purchase your set before it is gone.

Michele

Paper Fundamentals: A hidden secret

Close to My Heart hid these wonderful papers in the back of the book.  I have finally played with them and am excited that these are continuing on to the next idea book!  The set features 20 double sided sheets, 2 each of 10 designs, one side with contrast and one with a glossy pattern.  I created this card, kept it monochromatic, and let the Fundamental paper shine. 

Where can you find this paper?  Right here of course! 

The products I used include:

• Z1939 Paper fundamentals Basic
• A1150Charming Chevrons
• C1564  Stitch Wonder
• Z1935 Black and Grey Epoxy Bubbles
• X254 Card bases and envelopes 

 And, if you like contests, watch this and enter to win!  



Add a little glimmer or a classic subtle design to your project with the Paper Fundamentals Basic Assortment. Leave a comment before July 31, 2014,   Jeanette Lynton's blog and tell us your fundamental scrapbooking item for your chance to win a Paper Fundamentals Basic Assortment!
 
 
 

Artbooking Made Easy: Love is in the Air

I have been busy creating with new products for fall and winter workshops.  I am so happy that all the new workshops on the go feature layouts using the Artbooking Cricut Cartridge.  Every time I use this cartridge, I discover something fun and new!  You will start to see these layouts on my blog in August but until then, continue to enjoy these videos about how to create layouts, gifts, and mini albums using this fabulous cartridge.



Use Close To My Heart's Cricut® Artbooking cartridge to create striking scrapbook pages for your loved ones, from happy couples to loving families to cherub-like babies and so much more! Plus, learn how to create dramatic backgrounds to perfectly complement your love-struck photos.

You can purchase this and other cartridges here on my website OR ask me how you can get it for half price!   

 And here is the card I made using the same key! 

Enjoy!
Michele

Week in Review

I have had a fabulous week and it has come to a close with the celebration of Alli's 18th birthday.  She is an amazing girl and has great adventures planned for her future.  Can't wait to see how it all plays out.  But grab your favorite cuppa and lets review the creative part of this past week!

Skylark: Beautiful for all occasions.

We are saying good by to Skylark at the end of this month!  The Picture My Life kit will still be available but if you want full sheets of paper to coordinate with it, now is the time!  Shop here for your Skylark Products. 

 

Some of my favorite coordinating products that are also retiring include:  

Chocolate Woodgrain Washi Tape

Lagoon Zipper Ribbon

Lagoon Houndstooth Washi Tape

Mini Medley Accents Wooden 

Trinkets Wooden Shapes

Kraft Pocket Album

Marathon Results

I love hosting the 20 card Marathon with my downline Meredith!  It is fun to have 15 plus ladies over to create cards and fill up their stash for birthdays, thank you's, and any occasion cards.  You can see the cards we made when you click here, but I will add one here to start your "training" for our next one. 

My Artistic Adventure & A Contest

 The CTMH convention in June was a great celebration, good overdose of inspiration, and a fabulous connection with awesome people!  You can see the video in this post.   And you can win a WOTG of your choice from the new idea book when you "find me" and comment on the time stamp.  Kind of like a Where's Waldo!  And one photo to end the week of me at convention.

And who will join me next year for this fabulous adventure!  I promise CTMH and I will spoil you!

Enjoy your weekend.

Michele

An Artistic Adventure

I had a blast at the CTMH convention in June.  It is one of the highlights of my year, each year and this one was not a let down.  LOVED IT ALL!  Who wants to go to Disney with me next year?  Watch this video and feel yourself get excited about the possibilities.



Look for me!  When you find me, comment with the time stamp!  I found myself at least twice...  For every time stamp that I confirm, I will put your name in a drawing for a WOTG kit of your choice from the Annual Expressions, coming in August.  Drawing will be held July 31st.  The winner will see the idea book online and choose their prize!

I almost missed it!

Tonight I was at the farmer's market after a busy day with my girls.  I almost missed my post but I want to share with you the cards we made Friday night at the 20 Card Marathon.  It was so much fun!  Excuse the photo quality...love the ideas. 

 

Created By Meredith using the Stamp of the month Circus Alphabet.

 

Created by Meredith

 

Created by using a photo mat from the Artbooking Cricut Cartridge.

Used the Chevron Embossing Folder (new in the Annual Expressions!) and then sanded to expose the white core.  Then I sponged on some Hollyhock pin to add a two tone look to the texture. 

Created by Meredith using the Free to Be Me paper packet which was the Nat'l Scrapbook Month special.  I don't think I can tire of this!

One of my standard cards created with the stamp set from the Artiste Cricut Collection.  I adore cupcakes!

And because I love cupcakes, one more!

Have a great week,
Michele

Skylark: Beautiful for all occasions.

As we start the two final weeks of the Spring 2014 Idea Book, I wanted to share some photos of the Skylark paper packet.  As a reminder, we will also be saying goodbye to this set of gorgeous set of papers.  I have used them for beach scrapbook pages, home décor, and of course cards.  I love the versatility.  Have you used the Skylark paper packet?  If so, I would love to see a photo of your artwork. 

 

Don't forget to pick up your Skylark paper packet, complements or WOTG before the end of the month.  

Finally, when you place your order of $50 or more, you can get the Circus Alphabet for $5.  This cute set is also only available until the end of the month.  Here's a card that was created for the 20 Card Marathon last weekend.  So simple yet it will make the receiver happy when they see it.

Created by Meredith Nguyen

If you missed the blog hop for the stamp of the month and want to see more artwork.  You can start here and hop through!   

Michele

 

This week in review!

Saying good bye to Timberline at the end of July!  

Available while supplies last.  

Introducing Artfully Sent

The new Cricut Cartridge from Close to My Heart which will delight card-makers and their receivers both.  Sign up to be notified of the cartridge availability in August 2014.

Fun and Sun

I am loving the summer weather in Seattle and enjoyed the warmth at convention in Disney!  Use Artbooking to create titles and textures on your scrapbook pages.   Artbooking collection can be purchased for $99 or you can get it for half price.  Ask me how. 

Enjoy your weekend!

Michele

Are you having fun in the sun?

Capture the memories of your summer using the Artbooking Cricut cartridge, solid cardstock and simple patterns.  Add  a title and them some texture to complete a simple layout sharing your summer adventures. 

Want to learn how to create this layout and others like it?  Need help with your Cricut or Artbooking cartridge.  Contact me to set up a one on one session this fall and I will show you how!

You can purchase the Artbooking Cartridge on my website OR get it for half off when you host a gathering or catalog party.  Let me show you how!

Timberline: Celebrate the outdoors

Maybe it is because I am from the Pacific Northwest but I love the paper packet and the outdoor feel it brings.  The patterns accentuate the stories that I have shared through my scrapbooking and cards I have made both on the masculine and feminine side.   Close to My Heart is saying good bye to this paper packet at the end of July or "While supplies last."  If the outdoors "speaks" to you, add this to your paper repertoire before it is gone.

 Shop here for your selection.

Coordinating stamp sets will be available through July 2015.  

 

Michele

Card Makers Delight!

Updated July 10th

You won't believe what Close to My Heart has thought of next!  A new Cricut Cartridge that creates interactive dynamic cards for all occasions.  Five different card styles are featured:  Pop-up, Sentiment, Sleeve & Pocket, Scene, and Icons.

   

Want to learn more?  Take a look at this video:  This video was removed to wait until the cartridge is available.  Keep your eyes open for the announcement OR

Sign up today to be notified of the cartridge availability in August 2014.


Here are some screen shots of the some cards for a little tease. 

 Michele

You have a choice!

Just back from the Close to My Heart Convention in Disneyland and I have so much to share but before I get to those posts, let me share the best news of all.  You can join today with a kit specifically set up for you!  Scrapbooker?  Card maker?  You have a choice!

  

(Click on the photos to see larger view.)

Why should you choose today?  For every person who joins my team in July 2014, I will offer a free Workshop on the Go from the new Annual Inspirations Idea book, when you reach $300 in sales.  

Where do you fit?  There is a place for everyone at Close to My Heart!  Which position might fit you, your creative style, and your lifestyle?

• Business builder:  Looking to add a little or a lot of cash to your family budget?  CTMH provides the tools and training to create and support your own business.  Start your own business today, set your hours, be your boss, and enjoy the benefits of a great company!
• Creative coordinator:  Do you find yourself gathering together with friends for a crop time?  Planning fun nights out with friends?  Setting up  creative activities for a community group or church?  Close to My Heart offers products and workshops that make your planning easier than ever...and a 22% discount on the products (or commission for you.)
• Hobbyist:  Do you want a discount on your own personal products?  If you and a couple of friends really love the Close to My Heart products and spend around $100 per month on craft products, then this could be for you!  ($300 per quarter) You get a 22% discount and have access to the CTMH consultant website full of ideas and inspiration. 
• Independent consultant:  Have a dream of how you would like to earn money, get a discount, or play with paper?  As an independent consultant, you have the opportunity to make your dream come true. 

At Close to My Heart, there truly is a place for everyone!  I love what I do and I want to share the possibilities with you.  I am looking for people interested in all of these different positions.  I would love to support you as you find your place, whatever that might be! 

Contact me for questions or go online and sign up today!

Michele