Let's start with a couple of basics.
I am sure you have all read how a lot of stampers use Neenah 110# weight paper. I myself use this paper. HOWEVER, recently I was informed by a fellow stamper [Kimberly - thanks] about Reflections 110# weight from MICHAELS!! Yep, folks I am here to tell you this paper ROCKS!! I love using this weight of paper for my card bases. (It makes them feel like a quality card). I used a 50% off coupon so a ream, 250 sheets, cut in half = 500 card bases, I purchased for only $7.00. Seven bucks that's it! Take it one step further, take your ream to Office Depot and they will cut it for you for about $1. Card bases all ready to go! Awesome. On a side note, this weight of paper is fabulous for die cutting too - nice and thick cuts.
Okay, on to my first project. Sitting in front of my computer, I am always needing paper to write notes, whether it is challenges I want to play in, or bills I want to pay. It seems there is never a tablet convenient. Well, I have solved my problem.
I scored on 3 cases of copier paper from Office Depot for $26.00 over the holidays. [cha-ching] Since I have an abundant amount of copy paper now, I cut a stack of copy paper into note size squares, and made a 4" box to hold them in. Perfect - this box now sits by my computer, and I have note paper to use! If I run out, I will just cut more note sheets and fill up the box again. So convenient~
Last week, I got an email from Ellen Hutson's Classroom, with Julia Stainton's awesome mini album that she made. I'll be honest, I popped over to buy the adorable little file folders and that fun Tim Holtz Binder Punch that Julia used - then, my 2015 motto ran through my head; Make It Work. So, I did!
I pulled out my PTI Desktop File dies and went to work. I cut out 4 of each die and then I stamped each page using various PTI images, and finally sponged the edges with Distress Tea Dye ink. I punched a hole using my crop-a-dile and put the pages on a key ring.
I decorated the front cover the same way [stamped and distressed], and added some chipboard I found in my drawer.
I am using this book for techniques that I like to do [but always forget about].
I am writing down the technique, including a sample, [if I have room] on the pages, and now, all my favorite techniques are in a convenient book! The whole point to this is that I Made It Work by using what I had, to make a project using items I almost bought.
Bottom line, I just saved $12.00 plus shipping! Works for me.
Bottom line, I just saved $12.00 plus shipping! Works for me.
I am liking my motto!
Thanks for stopping by~ If you have a question, please leave an email so I can answer you :)
12 comments:
What super ideas (and motto) Vicki. My new year's resolution is much the same. Use what I have. Great project ideas and thanks for the Michaels tip...I didn't know they had 110 paper.
I love your projects and the tip on the paper too! However, I don't have those stores near me. So I am bummed! But I am happy you scored big with those purchases.
Oh boy, Vicki, what would I give to have a MICHAELS near to me!!!! (We don't have them in SA - pity, pity, pity!!!!!) From what I've seen and heard about Michaels they must surely be THE shop for any card-maker or scrapbooker to visit!!!! I can imagine spending hours (and dollars by the dozen!!!!) there having everything we crafters dream about at your fingertips!!!! If I ever win the lotto Michaels will be the first on my list for overseas visits!!!! (I'll come and pick you up so that we can spend a whole day there, shopping!!!!!! How awesome would that be!!! Nothing wrong with dreaming, hey!!!?? LOL!!!! Have to remember to play the lotto next time!!!)
I love your motto for the new year, Vicki!!! And I love your neat box for your note sheets (think I need one of those desperately as my notes sheets are forever lying all over the place!!!) And how clever and super cute your technique book is!!!! Great idea!!!
OK, I'm off!!! Have a super day!!!!
You are really blowing me away with all this creativity, Vicki! I use Staples 110 lb. CS (250 to a pkg), so this makes 500 card bases! Works great for card bases, in the Vagabond and for stamped images too. I cut in half and fold myself, a ream at a time!
Wowzers Vicki, that is one superb booklet! A wonderful keepsake that is! Wish we had Michael's in my country, too! Thanks for your lovely comment on my blog, take care, Ira x
Ira’s Crea Corner
Gorgeous work here Vicki, love everything you made ;) Viv xx
It is so easy to get sucked into buying the new trendy goodies. Love this little book. Can't wait to see what else I have missed.
Yes, I buy this white paper too! I used to exclusively use PTI white and this has replaced it! It's all I use now.
Awesome post...love your technique book!
Thanks for the paper tip Vicki! And what a cute little book you made for your techniques, great idea!
Way to go, Vicki! Love the idea, the book and how you saved money!
Vicki, I just heard about Michael's 110 lb cardstock from a friend yesterday. I plan to get some today. Your little album is so clever. So is your idea for note paper. You are rocking the ideas!
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