Liquid Glass: The answer for everything crafty and more!

I love Liquid Glass.  I have used it to add dimension to artwork, as a glue for ribbon and other embellishments and a "super" glue for eye glasses in an emergency.  And for just $6.95, this bottle of wonder will last a long time. 

Click on the photo above to enlarge and you can see how I added liquid glass to the HO and the rest of the title not seen.  Element on the scrapbook page is the title for the complements and was a little "flat" compared to the other embellishments.  The touch of liquid glass help create dimension and shine to help it stand out. 

 This photo shows the new Base and Bling collection from the Spring/Summer 2014 idea book.  It is easy to personalize your pendant with stamps and pigment inks.  Then the glass covering is added and sealed with liquid glass, creating a solid and secure bond.

Doodles are "in" and Close to My Heart has two new stamp sets that make doodling so much fun.  Oodles of Doodles is available for $6.95 here. and the set I used, a new Hostess stamp, Oodle signs is available for $4 using hostess rewards only.  Enjoy the video below that highlights some fun stamping with these new Oodles of Doodles stamp sets.

It's New, It's Fantastic

And it is one of my features in my Valentine 14 day celebration because I love everything about it!

Picture My Life!  The simplicity and versatility of Close to My Heart's Picture My Life™ scrapbooking programs are perfect for those who are not interested in traditional scrapbooking or who have limited time! With just one program, a paper trimmer, corner rounder and journaling pen, you can create countless unique scrapbook pages, mixing and matching your photos with colorful, artistic cards. It’s the perfect fit for those with lots of photos or little time!  Eight different styles to choose from!

 Two new album covers will be available March 1st in both post bound and ring binder.  They can be seen in this introductory video.  Let me know if you would like to see Picture My Life in person.  I would be happy to get together with you to share this new, unique product.

I am not Wishy Washy about Washi tape!

When I first heard about this embellishment, I wasn't sure what to do with it.  Do you ever see something that is "in" but don't know how or where to use it?

After going to album retreat, visiting some of my favorite blogs and looking on Pinterest, I have discovered LOTS of ways to use it.  And it is so much fun!

This light weight "tape" can be used on it own to add a background on a card or layout. 

If I want the actual color of the washi tape to be highlighted, I will mount it on white cardstock and then add it to my artwork.  Create the affect that an item is casually taped to your artwork.

Don't have the right color of washi tape?  You can use a background/texture stamp to create the look of washi tape.

We offer several different styles of washi tape.  Each roll contains 15 yards and is between $4.95-$7.95 depending on the width.  You can see some of the designs in the photos below. Shop on my website for your favorite.

A tool that I can't live without!

It's day three of my Valentine posts, celebrating products I love.   This tool set comes in handy for many different uses.  I have three of them...

First, I use it to poke holes through layers of paper when I am adding a brad embellishment.  It make a quick and clean hole for easier embellishing.  I make sure I have the pad behind my paper to protect the surface I am working on.

Second, I use it to pick up, transfer and place smaller, self adhesive embellishments such as sparkles or pearls.  By carefully sliding the point of the tool under the item like a sparkle, it will stick to the point and remove from its carrier sheet.  Then I move the point to the area I want to place the sparkle, set it on the paper and then hold the sparkle in place with a finger from my other hand and slide the point out and it sticks...right where I want it!

Third, if I want to stitch on my paper or just add a design of faux stitching, I use the paper piercer with the ruler or stitch guide to to pre-poke the holes creating my design.  Then I use a journaling pen to "connect the dots" for faux stitching or thread and needle to complete the design.  I have also just left the pattern of holes as a design itself. 

Fourth, I am sure I have left out some my the uses for this tool as I grab it often for assistance in my creating.  What would you use it for?

I Love Sparkle!

It brings a smile to my face every time is see a little shimmer!  Don't get me wrong, I don't like to go hog wild with glitter...but I do like a little bit of sparkle that catches my eye and brightens my day!

Close to My Heart offers sparkle in two different ways.  You can get full sheets of glitter paper in 4 different color schemes OR self-adhesive shimmer trim in 6 different colors.

Gold glitter paper cut on the Cricut using the Art Philosophy Cartridge.

Silver glitter paper cut on the Cricut using the Artiste cartridge (heart with the top trimmed off.)

 Silver Shimmer trim accent

New Teal Shimmer Trim

The glitter paper comes in packages of 3 12x12 sheets with various shades of a single color.  It cuts like butter on the Cricut and I adjust my settings to be High pressure, High speed (lower if the design ins more intricate), and I will also Multi-Cut 2.  I use the light purple Cricut mat with the glitter side up for easy cutting and removal of the paper afterwards. 

The shimmer trim is 13/8 inch wide (photos are not accurate to size) and there are 5 yards on each roll.  The purple is new to the Spring/Summer 2014 idea book as is the teal which was previewed in the Cloud Nine Card Kit in January. 

In Love with Close to My Heart! 14 Days of Valentines And a Give Away!

I was listening to the Christian Music station on my way to church the other day and they were talking about "loving things of value" or "creating value by loving."  Got me reflecting.  What has added value to my life because I love it.  Among my family and friends, I have found a great value and love through Close to My Heart.  It's not just the products but the people and the relationships; people I have met who have become friends, those who have mentored me to make my dreams come true, and the nurturing creativity that feeds my soul.

As I celebrate the value of Close to My Heart in my life, I also want to celebrate some of the little things I love from CTMH.  Join me in celebrating the products, ideas, and inspiration that help nurture my soul and creativity. 

Let's start with Cricut!  I am in love with this machine and the Close to My Heart cartridges.  Filled with 700 images each, stamp sets that coordinate and videos of inspiration from CTMH, my mind spins with ideas every time I head to the studio.  Below is just a small sample of artwork. 

CTMH Cartridge Feature:  Cricut cut hearts with coordinating stamp. 

 Artbooking Cartridge Feature:  Photo mats and titles can be used for cards and scrapbooking.

 Artbooking Cartridge Feature:  Overlays create an element on interest and design on cards and layouts.  

 

Art Philosophy

 

 Artiste

   Artbooking  

Click on the photos for larger view. 

GIVE AWAY
How would you like to get one of these cartridges for half price?  When you place an order of $25 or more between Feb 1 - 10, I will put your name in a drawing!  I will draw the winner Tuesday Feb 11 and notify you via email.  You must message me your choice by 4 p.m. Tuesday evening or I will draw another winner. 

How do you place an order?  Visit my website at www.mrowley.ctmh.com or contact me by email with your order and payment.

Looking forward to continuing to share the Close to My Heart Love over the next 13 days of Valentines.

Michele

Embossing is Boss!

During the month of February,  can qualify to receive a free embossing folder for every 2 packs of bulk single color or combo cardstock you purchase. Pick from our 5 new embossing folder designs—dot, chevron, quatrefoil, damask, or stripe—with your qualifying order. Every 2 packs of cardstock you purchase qualify you for an additional embossing folder. Make sure you act fast—designs are available only while supplies last!

Visit my website to order yours now!  

Dates: Offer valid February 1–28, 2014 or while supplies last. 

Close to My Heart single color cardstocks come in packages of 24 sheets or you can purchase coordinated color families, 2 of each of 10 different colors.  The cardstock has a white core which allows you to create different textures with distressing such as sanding, crinkling and embossing.  It cuts beautifully on the Cricut as well.  

The White Daisy, Colonial White, Kraft and Fundamental paper packets are not included in this special. 

February Calendar of Events

Feb 1st 

Emboss is Boss February special.  When you purchase 2 packages of card stock, either single color packs OR combo packs, you can choose an embossing folder for free!

Wild About Love Stamp of the Month.  This adorable den of foxes is bound to make you smile as you create a special card or layout.  One of a kind set from Close to My Heart and it is only available during the month of February.  Purchase for $5 with an order of $50 or more or pay full price, $17.95.

Half Price Special!  I have two half price products to give away February 10.  Place a $25 order  between Feb 1st and Feb 10th and you qualify to be entered in a drawing for one of the two half price bundles.  Order here or contact me to place your order. 

• Bundle 1.   Cricut Cartridge (Retail Value $99 but you pay $49.50 plus tax)
• Bundle 2.   My Legacy album (choose from 5 different colors) and a Picture My Life Pocket Scrapbook Kit (choose from 8 different themes).  (Retail Value $49.90 but you pay $24.95 plus tax)

Fine print:  This special is being offered only through Michele Rowley, CTMH Independent consultant. 

February 7th, Friday, 9:30 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. 

Open crop and workshop time.  Bring your project, sack lunch and join us.  This is your time to work on the project of your choice.  I will be teaching a short scrapbooking workshop using Proplayer but will also be available to help you with your projects. 

February 7th, Friday, 7 p.m. 
Card workshop.  Come create 5 cards for $15.  This month we will do a couple more Valentines, a “cityscape” and a cut post it note holder.  Bring a friend to this workshop and you both get a $5 discount! 

February 18th, Tuesday, 10:30 a.m.

Card Class at the Sultan Senior Center.  Get together with these wonderful ladies and create 3 cards for $5.  If you want to carpool from the Bothell area, let me know.  You can also enjoy a hot lunch at the center for an additional fee.  RSVP by Feb 14th. 

February 28th, Friday 10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Lollydoodle scrapbook workshop.  This is a new whimsical paper packet from the Spring idea book.  We will create 3 double page layouts using a full paper packet, stick ease, and the Lollydoodle assortment.  Place your order no later than February 18th.  You can order on my website OR contact me by email. 

Open crop and workshop time.  Bring your project, sack lunch and join us.  This is your time to work on the project of your choice.  I will be available to assist you after the scrapbook workshop earlier in the day. 

February 28th, Friday 6:30 p.m. 

20 card Marathon!  Fill up you card stash with 5 different card designs, 4 of each.  Birthday, Thank You, Thinking of You and blank designs you can add your own sentiment.  This workshop is FREE with a $25 order placed at the evening of the workshop.  Can’t attend?  I can create a kit for you with instructions for assembly.  If you are local, you can pick up the kit and place your $25 order.  If you are out of the area, place a $25 minimum order on my website and then email me and for $5, I will ship your kit.  Bring a friend!  When you bring a new friend and they place a $25 order, you will both be entered in a drawing to win a Workshop on the Go Card Kit, Lollydoodle or Ivy Lane, retail value ($24.95). Space is limited so RSVP  soon to reserve your place. 

March 1st, Saturday 10 a.m.

Sip, See, and Tea

Introducing the Spring/Summer Idea book and much of its new product in person!  I am busy creating samples showcasing the new paper packets, Picture My Life Kits, and Base/Bling Jewelry Kits.  Come sip some tea, have a scone, and browse through the new book and samples.  For every $5 in order you place that day, you will receive a studio dollar and be able to shop in my studio clearance sale.  Stamp sets, embellishments, sample cards, scrapbook layouts and home decor.  Bring a new friend and receive 5 extra studio dollars to spend.  Carpool with a friend and everyone in the car receives a studio dollar to spend.  RSVP by February 25th.

May 1-4

Log Cabin Scrapbook Retreat

I have found a beautiful location in Duvall, with 6 feet of table space for each of 10 participants, and a potential of 76 hours of scrapbooking (although I do recommend a little bit of sleep here and there). 

The cost of lodging for the weekend is $140.  To keep the cost low, I am proposing that participants divide into meal teams and provide one meal for the group during the weekend. 

In addition, I will offer optional workshops with supply fees and if we have enough interest, a massage therapist for a little relaxation during your weekend.  Fees to be determined by the therapist.  

I am requiring a $70 deposit by Feb 20th, 2014 with the additional $70 payment due April 1st, 2014. 

These 10 spaces will fill up fast so share this information with a friend or two, make plans to attend and contact me with your information. 

Contact me for information on where to send your payment. 

On Cloud Nine with a bonus!

You can be on cloud nine too! It is National Paper Crafting  month and Close to My Heart is celebrating with this fun card kit. 

How can you get this kit?  The exclusive Cloud Nine cardmaking kit is $15 (retail value $46) with a qualifying purchase of $35 (excluding tax and shipping) during January in celebration of National Papercrafting Month. 

And I am adding a bonus:  one sheet of Laughing Lola paper, additional cutting guide and one sheet of extra die cuts for the stamps.  You will have plenty of lagoon cardstock, gold washi tape and teal shimmer trim to create 10 more cards.  (See photo below.)  AND  I will add a new Spring/Summer 2014 idea book.  This will be shipped to you separately. 

These items will support making the kit and additional cards with the Cloud Nine stamp set and total $35.90, a qualifying order:

• X254 White cards and envelopes Value Pack  (50)    $14.95
• Z2195 Lagoon ink pad     $5.25
• Z2191 Sunset Ink pad      $5.25
• Z1151 3-D Foam Tape     $5.95
• Z553 Glue Pen                 $4.50 

If you do not have blocks, you may want to substitute in the following: 

• Y1010  2" × 6½"  $9.95

• Y1006  3" × 3" $8.50

  And, when you place a qualifying order of $35 and get the kit for $15, you will automatically be eligible for the January Stamp of the Month for $5.  Your savings is $43.95.

  You can shop two ways:

  Go directly to my website www.mrowley.ctmh.com and place your order OR

  Email me.  

  Either way, I will send you the extra paper, die cuts and Idea Book separately.  

  Remember this special is while supplies last or through January 31st, 2014.   

  

   Thanks to Jean Johnson and Pam Jarrett, fellow consultants, for their inspiration.