Accordion mini album

This album is really easy to make.  I found the instructions on Pinterest to create an accordion album.    I used these instructions. The only thing I changed was using additional pieces of card stock to cover the backside of the thin cardboard I used for the front and back cover.  This would be a personal preference.  I think it gives it a more finished look to not be able to see the cardboard when you open up the album.  It will stick out a little since the covers are cut bigger.  I just used a cereal box for the cardboard.  This album uses the Documented paper pack.  It's a great way to create a small brag book or gift for someone.  

Supplies used to create this project are:

Documented paper

Documented complements

Liquid glass

Bone folder

Quotable Words (D1786)

Whisper thick twine

If you have any questions on creating this feel free to comment below.  Also would you prefer if I take photos while creating in addition to the finished project?  Please comment and let me know that too.  Thanks!

~Justine

Hanging photo frame

Ever have a project that you’ve had in your stash for years just waiting to put together?  Me neither!  In all seriousness I have so many ideas and this happens to be the year I’m making time for me and actually getting them done.  My hope is that this inspires you and lets you release some of the guilt from buying said project(s) so that you can enjoy the creative process!

I purchased this kit so long ago I have no idea where I got it but I’m sure these are still available at a craft store.  I had liked the project but wasn’t crazy about the papers and ribbons that were included.  So instead I used the Beautiful Friendship paper, complements, white pearls, white enamel dots, bashful enamel dots, white twine, light grey ribbon, clear shimmer brush, and fresh air shapes.

How to books

  Today's topic, are the how-to books from Close to My Heart.  There are four volumes, with three and four being the most recently released within the last year.  Volumes three and four are packaged differently than the older volumes.  You slip these volumes into an Everyday Life album.  They're a convenient size and lay flat or could be propped up to easily view the instructions.  So why would someone consider purchasing one of these books when there's Pinterest?  I love Pinterest just as much as the next girl and enjoy pinning beautiful artwork that inspires me.  However it's easy to get lost down that rabbit hole and lose a lot of your time.  Your time is valuable and most people say I don't have time to be creative.  Or I could never make something like that because I'm just not a creative person.  I'm going to let you in on a secret, even creative people experience a block every now and again.  Well these books are there to help you move past that!

 

  So let's move into the details of these books and why they could help you.  Volume three has 36 two-page layout patterns for standard photo sizes.  As well as artwork that shows you how to include Pocket Plus pages.  The measurements are included and easy to read to create the layouts.  They also have two different completed layouts pictured so that you can see how the layouts can be used for any theme.  Each one also features creative tips on how to create special features on a layout.  Using standard photo sizes (4x6, 3x3, 3x4,...) are what takes your layout up a notch.  It provides a more cohesive look to your layout.  But sometimes you happen to take a lot of pictures at an event and would like to include them all in the one layout.  That's where the Pocket Plus pages come in!  There are multiple sizes and photo configurations available.  *So here's a tip:  if you are looking to print a 3x4 photo in landscape or portrait.  Download the Project Life App from the App Store.  It was only $2.99!  In the app you can fit two 3x4 pictures on a 4x6 layout, then you save it and have it printed wherever you purchase your prints.  This also helps to cut down on the cost of printing.*

  Volume four has 24 patterns to create cards for any occasion in the standard 4 1/4"x5 1/2"size.  Again there are two artwork samples and creative tips for each card shown too.  Cards don't come as naturally to me so having this is such a valuable tool.  The measurements are listed for the cards too.  I don't have a large amount of cards on hand but I can say that my stock has come through on several occasions.  When you realize that you forgot to pick up a card or you have a last minute thank you to mail out it can be annoying to have to drive back to the store just for that item.  It's nice to have them all ready to go, an added bonus is that being homemade adds a personal touch.

  I hope that you find this helpful to take a closer look at what's inside these How-to books.  Having a creative outlet is a great way to relax and have fun with your friends and having the right tools can help you with that.  If you have any questions please let me know!  

Sincerely,

Justine