Artistic Extras

'Still Playing After All These Years

2011-09-18T19:25:00.000-04:00

It has been ages since I have posted. Grand Funk Railroad had nothing on me. My funks can last a very long time! But theirs sounds much better.

I thought I would start sharing some of the items that I customize for sale. I won't be doing fancy pictures and write-ups just the items themselves. If you are interested or have questions feel free to write. imcindycade@gmail.com
Thanks!

The first item is a light that I made for my husbands family reunion. They always have an auction and this was my donation. He says it was a hit. :-)

I can make these in any theme (wedding, sports, icons) etc. If you have an idea I LOVE to make designs customized to your interests!

Earring Frames

2011-04-01T22:03:00.000-04:00

Two of my recent projects are featured today at: 365 Days of Crafts

Fun and easy too.

Creatively,
Cindy Cade

Loving Make the Cut!

2011-03-10T14:51:00.000-05:00

I have been playing with Make the Cut software which you can use to design and cut from several machines including my eCraft, the Gazelle, the Cougar, and the Cricut.
I have two files I thought I would share with you today.

I plan to use this one on some glass mugs as well as tumblers. Too fun!
Then there is this one which I created to go with Tim Holtz's Umbrella man. He seemed like he needed a friend. ;-)

If you click on the pictures they should take you to my website where you can download the MTC files.
I look forward to your feedback and am happy to get back to creating and (ahem) blogging once again.

Another Rosette for you!

2010-08-30T22:45:00.003-04:00

I got plenty of emails about the rosette and it seems many of you love them as much as I do. So I decided to try another today. One tip on this one, flatten down between the petals after assembling. It seems to give a fuller look. You can get the free WPC and WPC14 files here.

One more thing, if you know of another free host for cutting files that you find easier to work with please let me know at imcindycade@gmail.com

Thanks and God bless you and yours.

Rosette WPC file

2010-08-27T13:19:00.005-04:00

Ahh the kids are back in school and I got to play! I love TH's (you all know who he is right?) new rosette die. Unfortunately I don't have it and further I want to make them in different sizes. I created a very similar wpc file and it cut beautifully, yay!

You can get it here: http://www.4shared.com/file/ZXohfnWl/Like_TH_Rose_by_CindyC.htmlIf I am doing this right I should soon have lots more files to share.
God bless!

Converting SVG files to WPC Inkscape link

2010-04-10T18:50:00.003-04:00

I found a direct download link (thanks to Yahoo search) Inkscape-0.45-1.win32
I even downloaded it to be sure. I have Vista on my computer and it works fine fine with it.
I did not install this one (since it is already installed but it has the exact same name and 21,938 kb so I feel that is pretty certain. I also have Kapersky and it came up clean. Smile.
Hopefully this will end the frustration for many of you too.
Creatively...

Converting SVG files to WPC

2010-04-10T10:48:00.002-04:00

After converting tons of files with Inkscape I found that many did not work well in Funtime. Why? One thing I have found is that the newer vesion of Inkscape does not convert SVG to DXF very well. I searched on the web and found the 0.45 version of Inkscape and it does a great job! What a relief it was to find the right product.

My process for converting to Funtime for my Gazelle is:
1. Open the SVG file in my 0.45 version of Inkscape. Make sure it is all grouped and then save as a DXF file.
2. Import the DXF file into Funtime 2010. Group (resize as needed) and save as a WPC file.
3. Add to blue book while there. I love the blue book!

"About a Girl" Featuring Faerie Song Art Stamps!

2010-03-31T03:08:00.004-04:00

Project 2 of a "metal art" blog hop feature by Rubber Road Adventures and Faerie Song Art Stamps .

About a Girl
By Cindy Cade

Crafty Cruisers
Intermediate Stamping Team Designer

I have several different sized tins that hold smaller tins for storage. This is one of them. I think it made a lovely keepsake Christmas gift box for my little girl, don’t you? It was perfect for a necklace I made for her too.

Supplies:
FSVW-3BL Basket of Love (Faerie Song Art Stamps)
Classic Scalloped Rectangles Megabilities (Spellbinders Paper Arts)
Dahlia Nestabilities (Spellbinders Paper Arts)
Beige embossing silicone mat (Spellbinders Paper Arts)
Big Shot (Sizzix)
Memento tuxedo Black ink pad (Tsukineko)
Heat-It craft tool (Ranger Industries)
Stazon Blazing Red (Tsukineko)
Sharpie Markers
Galaxy Marker Milky Way White (American Crafts)
Matte Finish 1311 (Krylon)
Aluminum Pop Can
Metal (Hardware)
Xyron 850 Create a Sticker (Xyron)
Foam Tape
Paper fastener
Paper piercing tool

Instructions:

Clean your pop cans and carefully trim. Edges can be sharp! Flatten.

2. Stamp Faerie Song Art Stamps’ “Basket of Love” with black ink and heat set.

3. Color with Sharpie markers. Try to stay away from the black stamped lines as they can bleed.

4. Color white areas with Galaxy Milky Way White. Dry.

5. Seal with Krylon Matte Finish.
6. Cut with the second largest Megabilities scalloped rectangle. Run through again with silicone mat (per instructions) to emboss edge. Before removing from die, take your Sharpie marker and trace the inside of scalloped edge.

7. Bow: Cut three floral shapes using the second, third and fourth largest Dahlia shapes. Run through with grill metal and tan mat to emboss.

8. Add blue marker to bottom flower by rubbing color on your finger (or cosmetic sponge) and quickly spreading from center of flower to the outside petals.

9. Cut slits in between flower petals and roll back with pencil to give a bit of an under-curl. Pinch the tips of the largest flower.

10. Punch hole in centers (I used a paper piercing tool) and add a paper fastener.

11. Tin: Lay the grill metal over your tin and use as a stencil. Dab Stazon ink in the centers. Edge tin with Stazon masking as necessary and heat set.

12. Run stamped piece through Xyron and adhere to tin.

13. Attach bow with foam tape.
For more go to:
Etha's Fairies Tin
Judy's Decorative Clock
Peggie's Music Box

Visit Faerie Song Art Stamps to see their full line of wonderful stamps!

For all your die cutting needs (and more) check out Terryfictimes! Beverly is a doll of a vendor. :-)

What a Puzzle! Featuring Faerie Art Song Stamps

2010-03-31T02:22:00.008-04:00

A "metal art" blog hop feature by Rubber Road Adventures and Faerie Song Art Stamps.

What a Puzzle!

By Cindy Cade

Crafty Cruisers
Intermediate Stamping Team Designer

Cat lovers; either we know one or we are one. Here’s a little gift that’s sure to bring a smile.

Supplies:
FSVW-1KF Kitty Fae (Faerie Song Art Stamps)
FS-11CIP - A Cat Is a Puzzle (Faerie Song Art Stamps)
Cuttlebug A2 D'vine Swirl embossing folder (Provocraft)
Cat die (Spellbinders Paper Arts)
Beige embossing silicone mat (Spellbinders)
Puzzle Maker Die (Sizzix)
Big Shot (Sizzix)
Vellex Craft Ribbon (Berwick Industries LLC)
White and yellow ochre cardstock (Hollos)
Background paper (Spellbinders)
Decorating Chalks (Craft-T Products)
Dove Blender (Dove Brushes)
Round It All ½” (Zutter Innovative Products)
Memento tuxedo Black ink pad (Tsukineko)
Adirondack Expresso ink pad (Ranger Industries)
Xyron 850 Create a Sticker (Xyron)
Computer, scanner and Printer

Instructions:

1. Stamp Kitty Fae on white card stock with black ink. Dry.

2. Color with Craft-T chalks using a Dove Blender. The blender will make the colors pop and set them as well.

3. Copy image and bring into any program to resize. Mine is 1.96 inches wide. I also mirrored the image to make it just a tad more challenging for matching the easy puzzle. Print on plain copy paper and trim.

4. Cut background paper to fit your tin. Round corners and adhere the small Kitty Fae as shown. Stamp your saying. Dry. Run through Xyron. Remove clear plastic protective top but leave backing on. Emboss with D'vine Swirl embossing folder in the die cut machine. Remove protective backing and attach to top of tin.

5. Cut background paper to fit to side of tin. Stamp randomly with Expresso to create a pattern for visual interest and continuity. Run through Xyron and attach.

6. For Puzzle: Run stamped image through Big Shot with embossing folder.

7. Adhere (Xyron) the now embossed stamped Kitty Fae to heavy duty cardstock. I used a cover weight duplex with white on front and black on the back. Cut with Puzzle die.

8. Cut the two cats, one from white cardstock the other from the ribbon. Ink your embossing folder and run the cardstock die through your machine. Adhere to background paper to fit inside top of tin. Then attach to tin.

9. Place one piece of puzzle in bottom of tin. Add a trimmed piece of paper to fit tin and fold the rest of the puzzle within. Now they will be missing a piece which, of course they will find when the look further. (Wink)

Now give it to your cat loving friend and make their day!

Creatively,
Cindy Cade

For more go to:

Etha's Fairies Tin

Judy's Decorative Clock

Peggie's Music Box

Also visit Faerie Song Art Stamps to see their full line of wonderful stamps!

I Have a New Hero!

2010-03-22T10:51:00.002-04:00

And her name is Stephanie. Why do you ask? Well I am going to tell you! I have been converting files the LOOOOOOOOONG way with only marginal success. Ms. Stephanie, my new bff, has a fabulous article on converting those cutting files.
Where do you say? Why here of course! Scrapncreations.
This is the first time I just had to hit the tip jar. Woohoo!

How Exciting This Gazelle Is!

2010-03-16T10:41:00.005-04:00

I have learned a few things along the way. First, there is so much information available it can be confusing where to start. So, when you get your Gazelle, first things first, join the Bosskut forum. It has beginning steps and boy have they made my journey clearer. Thank you!

Next thing I learned, the blades for deep cutting and for regular cutting look the same. Read the envelope. LOL! I was using the wrong blade. I changed it, followed instructions and then took to cutting.

Remember how I said that I needed to make the mats stickier? I mixed Aleene’s Tack-It Over with a ratio of 60% glue to 40% water and “painted” it on the mat. Let it dry and it works very well! So then it was time to cut.

First here is a heart doily that is 7 ¼” square. It came out great on the first try. The only problem was when I pulled it off I ripped it a bit. So lesson learned, Cindy be patient and go slowly! Next I decided to just go for the intricate. Hey, that is a big reason why I purchased my Gazelle. I love those lacy designs!

This picture shows the projects ready to be cut. Quite detailed aren't they?

This shows the cutting settings I used. I know some of you are novices like my self.

This shows the cut items with just the outside removed.

Now to pull off the delicate cut pieces; yes, I had some tiny parts to remove but most stayed on my mat. Yay!

Aren’t they beautiful? By the way, I used cardstock that was not overly thick. One of the tutorials at the forum suggests using a “30” as the knife offset when doing small details.

I am a happy camper! I believe I got most of these designs from the Funtime Yahoo group and/or the Bosskut site.

Well the adventure has begun. My Gazelle came Friday evening. Yay!

2010-03-07T22:28:00.005-05:00

Those of you who loved Barbie in the 60’s will love the color of the Gazelle. It is white, hot pink and orange. I must confess mine will be altered soon. ;-) Everything is in the box, the usb cord, power cord, dongle, book, and software. It was a little confusing for me to understand how to get it all going but I managed. One big problem for me is the size of the text in the book. My eyes are old they (the fonts not my eyes) need to be bigger. I am hoping there is an online version I can just download and read on my computer more comfortably.

My next hurdle was to see if I could get all of my wonderful svg files converted to use with my Gazelle. Nope, after all those hours saving to dxf, they were all blank! I followed the instructions to the letter but maybe it is my 64 bit computer? Or my Vista? Who knows but working with Inkscape and saving it to dxf and then bringing into my Funtime 2010 isn’t working for me. After that I decided to take a break until last night.

So I decided to pull in less complicated files to see what I could do to use them. You would think I would just use one of the many wpc files freely offered on the Funtime group wouldn’t you? No, I am too advanced for that. (Yea right)! I finally had some success when I opened a file from Paulo’s site of a heart border in my Inkscape. I then changed it to black and resized it to 8.5 inches wide. I then copied the file and pasted it in my Funtime program. I used the Auto Vecto feature. I then had to close the side of the top border. Even for a beginner that was easy enough to do. I held my tongue just right and sent it to my Gazelle to cut. Success! Both the upper and the lower cut! See here they are. I saved that file as a wpc. Yippee!
I thought I had best do this again just to see if I can. So I grabbed a lace border again one from Paulo’s site. I went through the same steps but decided I only wanted the top layer. Look, even with all of those little holes, I have it! Okay it may not be perfect but it is close enough for now.

Tomorrow, I will play more with files. I will also get a shelf liner under my machine to see if it will quiet it down a bit.

All in all, for a complete beginner, I am feeling pretty good right now. My only real wish? Is there anyone who knows how I can easily convert those svg files to wpc? You would be my hero!

Creatively…

Gazelle Files and Delivery

2010-03-05T14:22:00.002-05:00

I had hoped that it would be here for the weekend but that's okay. I have been busy snagging cutting files and converting them for use with the Gazelle.

There are some wonderful folks around the web. I have started a new "Favorite Cutting Sites" links group in the right column. Penny and Paulo offer wonderful and free .svg files. I will add more links as I find them.

Now I had to find how I could use these in my machine so I wrote to Bosskut. I had heard they have great customer support and I got a reply back the very next day:

"To convert your svg files, you will not need any additional programs.
Open the svg file in inkscape, make sure everything is ungrouped, then select everything and "save as" a dxf file.
The dxf file will import into funtime...
Thanks! Terri (Gazelle Tech' Support)"

BTW, Inkscape is a free program you can get online. So many new things to learn! It is a great program and I am sure we will be doing things with it in the future as well. Penny included tutorials as well as cutting files on her site and she is one talented lady. So, take a look around, let me know what cutting sites you find and let's get ready to play!

creatively...

Coming Soon: The Gazelle Adventure!

2010-03-02T10:13:00.004-05:00

Well I did it. I ordered the Gazelle and I am quite excited I have to tell you. The creative possibilities are like Manna to my spirit!

I will learn to design my own die cut patterns or take any stamped image or clip art image and make a die cut from those. Maybe use someone else’s shared template. No more waiting and hoping that some of my favorite die companies will produce the die I am longing for.

I will be making rhinestone patterns, pop-ups, my 3D pop-outs, favors, banners, and who knows what!

Perhaps you are already on this road. Maybe you are thinking about taking the plunge yourself. Either way, I hope you will take this journey with me and share your ideas, techniques, and knowledge.
From the fabulous finds to the hurdles, I plan to share it all. Care to join me? As soon as I know the shipment date I will share it here. Please let everyone know about this adventure so they can join in too.

Creatively…

Design Team Thoughts

2010-02-17T09:23:00.003-05:00

Design Team Thoughts

Isn’t it time someone spoke up? I think so. Those of you who sponsor design teams do you really consider your designers as valuable? I wonder.

A good designer will do their best work (not just CASE others). They will promote your company everywhere they go. Each card, altered item, layout, or what have you has taken hours if not days to imagine, work out details and complete with all to be in pristine condition. On top of that the designer is usually asked to photograph and edit their items, upload the scans on more than one venue, and be available to answer all questions about the technique and/or item. They will be required to name products used in the card and often include a tutorial. Then there are the “blog hops” which add more, yup you guessed it, time from the designer.

Often we are required to send the actual objects to the company which require proper packaging, more time spent, and shipping costs. We may be asked or required to send to stores and conventions as well. Did you note the shipping costs? Many expect us to pay them without recompense!

If the designer, like me, loves to think outside the box and find new ways to use the product, that takes more time along with the possible use of outside products.

Now for all of this what does the design team member get in return?

Lately, without naming names, I have seen companies that will give you perhaps $50.00 in product (I wonder is that retail or wholesale?) per month. Some may give a single sheet of rubber stamps. That’s it. Everything else comes out of our pocket. Does this really sound fair to you? They get away with it because some folks just want to be able to claim they are on a design team. Whatever happened to RESPECT? Appreciation?

I have had the pleasure to work with some wonderful companies as a designer. They treated me like a star. I was given plenty of product to work with. Most let me choose which products and projects I would prefer and not try to mold me into a certain style. They reimbursed me for my shipping costs and covered my travel fees if I chose to be a demo for them. If I chose to submit to magazines I was well compensated for those published as well. I cherish these companies. They usually sent me a LOT of product when I began as well so I had plenty to work with and choose from. Why? because they know that we designers may feel like doing something artsy today and cute tomorrow. But if we only have, one style of images to work with, it will limit our creativity. This is not good for the company or the artist.

Companies: Please give credit to your designers for the hard work they do. Compensate them fairly and if you can generously. In the long run you will be glad you did. The designer will never forget you and will continue to “advertise” for you long after her/his term is over if you do.

Designers: Do your very best at all times. Live up to your obligations. Give praise when due. Be quiet when you should.

We all make mistakes, I have made far too many in my life I know. We all are still learning how to better create, communicate, and even handle our own struggles. So let’s give some leeway when we can. It is more fun to lift up then to tear down.

I must give a huge shout out to some of the companies who were beyond the best to work with: Spellbinders, Hearts in Touch, Red Castle, Inc., Innovative Stamp Creations, Enchanted Ink, Terryfic Times, Marco’s Paper. THANK YOU! And to all of the other companies I have worked with, thank you as well. I have been blessed!

Creatively,

Cindy Cade

http://artisticextras.blogspot.com

3D Pop-Out Tutorial can be seen at:

2010-02-15T17:55:00.002-05:00

My RubberRoadAdventures blog page. I would love to see how you use it too.

A Valentine

2010-02-13T11:39:00.003-05:00

This is a valentine I made for an article at RubberRoadAdventures Newsletter. Again it features my 3D Pop Up technique. It should be up soon so keep checking if you are curious about its details.

Creatively,

Everyone seems to be into 3D these days so...

2010-02-08T20:10:00.003-05:00

I had to join in. Now I don't get to see most films in 3D, according to the experts I have no depth perception, but really that means my perception is just different than yours. Different isn't always bad now is it? I did once experience a 3d movie, because the screen is so huge at Disney World and the glasses are a better quality, I actually got to see what you all do all the time. I was probably the most excited kid the room (I was only in my 40's after all)!

Lately I have had so many creative ideas storm my brain that I feel I am about to burst. Finally I just told myself to let the other stuff in my life go and get back to what I like to do; Play! I am very glad I listen to my own advice.

Oh yea, back to the 3D, oh how I can ramble... Here is my project of today. I only wish I could get a better picture. Do you see the dimension? I mean how can you miss it? No this isn't a bunch of flowers stacked on each other, well not completely.

I have seen pretty punches that are dimensional in that you can pull up the butterfly's wings, or the sides of a heart. They are nice but they are a little too subtle for me. I love bold! So enter my 3D Pop-Out technique. Hey how'd you do that you ask? Well, it shouldn't be too long before the entire tute is up at Rubber Road Adventures I am working on it now.So keep checking. I will tell you it involves those wonderful dies from Spellbinders!

Here is a more sideways view. Notice how the petals are still attached to the base layer?

You all have to do me a favor and write to Spellbinders and tell them that we need nesting daisy dies, for starters. I have others in mind too and since I know they make these all so well where else would we go?

Don''t forget most of my work is now being shared at Rubber Road Adventures where I am on both the stamping teams and the fairly new Hot Diggity Die Cut Diner. Food and crafting? Hey sounds made just for me right? LOL

Creatively,

Cindy Cade

Pop Star Instructions

2009-11-30T09:23:00.003-05:00

Here is how I did my stars:

Carefully cut your pop cans so you can get as large a flat piece as possible. Be careful as edges can be sharp.

Cut the pieces using your Sizzix 5 point star die in your die cut machine of choice. I got two pieces from each can.

Run the pieces through again embossing with the Cuttlebug folders.

Color the pieces with alcohol ink and allow to dry or heat set.

Score the folding lines on the top of the pieces. Usually you do this on the back side but with the aluminum this won't work as well.

Assemble the stars. I found that using a small stapler very near the score lines worked pretty well.

Punch a hole to hang or tape a loop to the back.

How fun was that?
Creatively...

Pop Stars

2009-11-29T19:48:00.005-05:00

Have you ever felt that you could create a pop star? Well, I have no doubt that you can. I mean if I can do it you can too. Now I am not talking about the next American Idol, oh no, far cooler than that. Do people still say cool?

Anyway, using a Sizzix Bigz 5 point star die, a few Cuttlebug folders, some Adirondack inks by Ranger Industries, your trusty small stapler and a little patience you can have one too.

(Backside)

Oh yes, you need aluminum pop cans. ;-)

They are about 8 1/4" inch tall.

Until next time...

Creatively,

Cindy cade

Seasons of Life part 3 of 3

2009-11-15T20:19:00.004-05:00

Summer/Autumn

I have tried to get decent pictures but to no avail. I will have to make do with these. This just goes to show it isn't the cost of the camera it's the operator. (Blush)

I took 2 full size pieces of cover weight cardstock and used the largest scalloped rectangle die to cut the windows of my luminary. I then taped in the stamped images and backed with white cardstock so the inside is finished as well. I only had to tape two sides as I folded the two sheets in half.

Winter/Spring

I am very pleased with the results.

These stamps by Stamps Happen are simply gorgeous!

Seasons of Life part 2 of 3

2009-11-15T16:45:00.006-05:00

Last time I showed you the images all stamped, embossed and colored. The next step is complete. I have added faux flowers. The scans don't show the dimension well but they are beautiful! You can find directions to make the faux flower soft on this video by Holly Young. I added from one to 4 drops per baggie of regular die reinkers (Ranger and Marvy).

One more step to finish my project!

Winter with snow:

Spring with cherry blossoms:

Summer with flowers and leaves:

Autumn with colorful foliage:

Seasons of Life

2009-11-14T20:04:00.012-05:00

I have been playing, joyfully!

I was so blessed to get my hands on these beautiful, collector quality, Stamps Happen stamps from Janlynn Corporation.

Today I stamped and embossed them on vellum.

I then colored them with markers, inks and Galaxy Markers.

What will I do with them next? Stay tuned!

Please note that these scans simply do not do the images justice.

They totally pop!

80242 Winter lingers

80270 Spring is Coming

80252 A Summer Song

80251 When Autumn Comes

Rubber Road Adventures Newletter

2009-08-17T12:04:00.003-04:00

I found out something wonderful for all of you super busy yet in the know artists; The RRA Blog! Just scroll down in the right column to subscribe to your choice of readers, etc.

For those of you who can be more involved do join RRA where you will find tons of inspiration, diverse artsy groups, as well as a community of like minded souls!

New projects are added constantly and it is a fabulous place for you to showcase your art as well.

Creatively....

2 New tutes (Sneak Peek)

2009-08-15T21:41:00.004-04:00

Rubbing plates, oil pencils, stamps, fabric, gift giving, bright apparel, fun. So what could all these things have in common?

You will have to see for your self. :-)

Tutorial 1

I am removing the second tutorial. There were problems with the inks. I will be redoing the project and updating. So stay tuned.

My suggestion: Do not use Rangers Adirondack Color Wash inks for wearable fabrics. This is the second time I have done this (though I used natural fibers this time and thought that made it safe) and had the ink bleed.

Creatively,
Cindy Cade

Give God Thanks Wall Banner

2009-08-11T12:22:00.009-04:00

Last October I did a Sizzix wall banner. I have another to share with you today. I apologize that my scanner cannot fit the entire width. My old graphic programs (which include things like stitching) will not work with my new Vista computer. :-( But you will get the idea.

For instructions just go back to my Dare to Dream banner.

And to see lots of fun new art (yes I will have some up soon as well) go to:

Rubber Road Adventures!

Great Candy!

2009-08-11T10:57:00.001-04:00

All the Things I Love is having a fabulous candy prize. Don't miss your chance. :-)

News, I am coming out of retirement....

2009-06-25T21:03:00.002-04:00

Life has been chaotic as usual. Hey, at least I know I am alive!

I have joined Rubber Road Adventures ezine and will be creating new projects and tutorials along with many other creative artists! If you have not checked them out yet, do! I know you will be energized!

To quote Lizabeth:

"Did you know that we published about 60 Art Tutorials in May for the Spring Edition? Did you know that we have published about 80 Art Tutorials in June for the Summer Edition? That's an incredible record of about 140 Art Tutorials in just 6 weeks here on our new Network!!!The Elite Design Professionals, the Rubber Roadies, are dedicated to our readers, Valued Vendors, and the industry. Come mingle with us; ask any questions, share your thoughts with us, take a look at our art projects, and share your artwork, too! We are here for YOU! It's time for you to take the plunge and come over:http://RubberRoadAdventures.ning.com/ "

This is not only an ezine, btw, it is a fun network with tons of tutorials, special interest groups, chat features (hmm does this mean I will be doing live classes again soon? Maybe) and so much more!

So, look for me in the August issue. Now I am off to give two of my latest ideas life! They keep kicking at me begging to come out and play. :-)

Creatively,
Cindy Cade

A favorite blog of mine

2008-11-15T21:56:00.003-05:00

Do you go there too? They have such great tips and share the best of mom-prenurer sites. With spare time so limited these days, I am lucky to get in a few moments with some of my favorite friends blogs and this one. Oh, they have such great give-a-ways too. One of these days I am going to win, I mean, it could happen right?

Check out the Mom-preneur Shop-a-thon going on right now! Gorgeous purses are up today!

You just got to love a site like that!

As promised, New Art!

2008-10-07T23:26:00.009-04:00

When I first got my Bigz Scallop Card die (Sizzix) from Terryfic Times, I knew it was really a banner in disguise. I have been wanting to make this ever since! I already have several backgrounds ready to go for new sayings. They will go to a craft bazaar.

As you can see, I didn't have much luck at photographing it. But the scanner didn't do too bad. You still can't really see just how much this pops, or the glitter from the Stardust pen adding just the right touch but you should get an idea.....

These are cut from cardboard and white glossy card stock, then glued together for stability.

Once the backgrounds are created, I stamp the flourishes and main images in White, dry, then off stamp again in black.

I dry the inks then seal first with a U.V. sealer, then with a couple of coats of glossy.

Now to add the details, lots of Souffle pen work, Stardust pen work, adding the eyelets and "jump rings" (which are really tiny slinky type rings)!

Add the flowers, and ribbons, and anything else that suits your fancy, and what a gift! Well, at least I think so. :-)

By the way, the letters are Indulgence by Spellbinders.

So, do please leave a comment, share the URL, and if you make some, let me see!

Creatively,
Cindy Cade

Selling off artsty extras

2008-10-07T12:57:00.003-04:00

Hi all,

Yes, I still exist. :-) I am still doing a lot of catching up. Yep, my life's mantra! LOL! This week I will be spending most of my time painting one of our rentals. Pray we get good renters so I have money to spend! We are good landlords (though I really hate that term).

Now, on to the meat of this post. As time goes by I am going to be uploading items for sale on my picture trail. I will send notes about them here too. Most of these are either duplicates in my studio or left over from my store "Artistic Extras." I prefer PayPal as I think it is easier for us all but a certified or personal check will also do. I cannot ship until funds have been cleared. Shipping will be actual and I suggest getting insurance if you are spending enough to be concerned. Once it leaves my door I cannot be responsible, Okay?

I have been working on a pretty cool project. I will be posting it in a day or few. So do check back. I think you will like it! It uses my die cut machine, dies, stamps and well you shall see!

If you have any questions write to me at: cjcmlc@horizonview.net

You can see the sale items (more will be added as time allows and removed when sold) at: http://www.picturetrail.com/sfx/album/view/20698804

There is even a brand new in package Big Shot kit! I love my die cut machines and dies but this is the one I use most, it is just so easy.

Okay, I have to get to work. Hugs all!

It has been awhile but....

2008-09-13T00:39:00.003-04:00

I am getting closer!

I have lost 25#s and can't believe that just a few short months ago I was wheel-chaired through the Creation Museum because my legs wouldn't carry me that distance. Now, I could do it with no problem! Woohoo!

I have had my third day without a catastrophe (though this computer is still putting up some good fights). I am getting a few things caught up and have lots of plans and ideas running through my brain. I am so ready to play.

Also, you may notice a new button on the top right of my blog. For those of you who sell items online, be they homemade, retail or digital, here is a group that let's you trade with other web mom and pop shops. How cool is that?

Now, I know I closed my store several months back. I am not planning (at least not at this point) on going back to retail but I am going to be sharing some of my art for sale online. I have too many ideas to let sit idle so why not? Christmas is coming, as are birthdays, Sundays, I made it out of bed days, and so many other just reasons (like we really need one) to shop, right? I love the idea of supporting each other. Handmade from the hART is always best in my opinion!

OK, off to bed with me. I have plans for tomorrow.

Hugs you all and thanks for taking time to comment. It is so fun to read. BTW, miss LH, and you know who you are, it was really difficult only getting to have one name drawn. I wanted to hand pick winners. But then, I would have had to pick them all. :-)

Creatively....

Today I am thankful for...

2008-08-21T08:43:00.004-04:00

My church. I have a pastor who preaches the Word of God without comprimise. He isn't afraid to call sin, sin. He will tell you that only by believing on Jesus Christ can one be saved. Yes, saved. I don't share this to offend anyone but if your church doesn't do these two minor things you may want to pray about what you should do.

Our congregation is small. Let's face it churches who only give motivational talks are a lot more popular.

I want my church to love me enough to point out my faults as well as my good points and to do so in love.

"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires;"
"and will turn away their ears from the truth, and will turn aside to myths." (2 Tim 4:3-4 NASB)

Cheers!

Hope is a great word....

2008-08-21T08:17:00.003-04:00

I am 16#s lighter and I think it all must be from the weight on my heart!
You see I have not been able to muster up the strength to even begin a diet for years, but I recently dropped my depression medicine and my blood pressure medicine (yes I weened off of them both) as they made me tired. I am also convinced they have made me obese! What an ugly word! Actually morbidly obese. Now that is downright scary but fitting.

I joined Sparkpeople (I am continuing to totally love this site) and it has all the tools and support one could ever want or need. Amazing that it is free, God bless them everyone!

Since then I have found that I am ADHD. Some of you probably already guessed this just by the way I write. I do it the same way I think. I mean have you ever known anyone who used "( )" so often? That is my mind wandering. I know I should just incorporate a new sentence but being queen of something is better than nought right?

Why would I share this find about myself? Because it is again a source of hope for me. After decades of knowing I am "wired" differently than the rest of the world it is nice to have it medically confirmed. It explains my disorganized thought processes, same with my lifestyle, why I can't listen to someone intently if there is any other sound in the room or motion for that matter. One other thing about us ADD folks, we are usually very creative. Hmm, anyone out there relating? Maybe you should do a study.

My pastor loaned me a book entitled "Driven to Distraction" and it was like someone peered inside my brain and took notes. In all my life I have never had a proper diagnosis. I have begun medicine to help. This could take awhile to get right. I am also learning how to better organize my life. That is hard because I am a "now" person. If it takes long term obligation and a lot of steps I will have to push myself. This is also typical of ADD/ADHD.

Now, I have two great things to add to my new found hope list.

First, since beginning my diet my blood pressure is in the good zone! No kidding! I haven't even lost a lot of weight (yet) but I did drop all the soda (pop) as well as candy, doughnuts, etc.

Second, the medicine they put me on has a certain side effect that can work for me, it is supposed to oppress the appetite! Hopefully that will prove true when they up my meds. I am on too low a dose at the moment to feel anything. BUT I have hope!

I now believe that I will get my studio organized again, get the garage emptied, and perhaps even get the kids back on track in their own rooms. My boy has ADD too, which is how I actually found out that I do.

I am expecting great changes.

Hey, btw, for those who know me almost too well, I quit demoing for the last couple of years because I kept breaking out in sweats. It was embarrassing to say the least. For the first time in a decade I was able to wear layers to church last Sunday without being overheated. Woohoo!

Look out world, Cindy is coming back and will be better than ever!

Winner of my first ever blog candy is.....

2008-08-15T21:19:00.002-04:00

Ms Brenda aka Dragonlady! Here is her post...

Dragonlady said...
WOW, am I glad I stumbled on your blog from another one....I love the Bamboo purses, they are incredible....and Beautiful....I posted to my blog and I added you to the links...I want it....Brenda

I went to see your site and it looks as though the random generator chose someone who will have fun with this kit. I can't wait to see what you do with it!

Congratulations! BTW, have you seen the Google search title this week? You will love it!

Thank you everyone for playing. Keep checking back because I will be having more candy soon.

What a week, well what goes down must come up right???

2008-08-13T00:40:00.003-04:00

Tell me I am right! Well, I do have my computer running. Yay for that! Got my Internet back, and am able to receive my email. I lost so much! Passwords, tutorials, pictures, all of my documents! Sigh. But, I am back and that is a good place to start. It's a brand new day, right?

Reminder, my blog candy contest ends on the 15th. If you haven't left a comment on that post, please do. You never know, you could be showing off your own stamped version of my bamboo purse.

I have some catching up to do but my brain is overflowing with ideas. Hey Suze, two of them I think you are going to love but I am not telling yet. (It is possible that what I see in my head won't work in reality right)?

I went to Stampaway over the weekend. It was nice to spend time with other adults especially who think like I do. We are a peculiar bunch aren't we? LOL!

I have decided that I hate Mary Jo, ('course she knows that I really love her) but she had to make those Copics impossible to resist. As soon as budget allows I am going to have to get some I suppose. Oh, speaking of mary jo, she gave me her card with her blog addy on it. How did I not have this one in my arsenal? I am going to check it out. If you haven't you best do it too. You don't want me to know something you don't yet right? She is so honest and down to earth. If she says it she means it. I like that in a person!

Okay, it is late for me and I need to try and get some sleep. I promise it won't all be chatter.

Creatively......

Today I am thankful for...

2008-08-05T13:30:00.001-04:00

My computer. Yes, it can drive me crazy but it is such a blessing to my life. Hmm, that sounds like my kids....

Life can be challenging... computer problems

2008-08-05T13:14:00.004-04:00

So I started having trouble getting to my blog. I do all the things suggested here at Google, but none worked. So I try to find the problem, it must be my spyware right? I did change some settings there.... guess what, it won't let me change them. So I try to log on at an earlier date setting... no help there. I still can't get to my blogs (which by the way they had even sent me a new password for and then told me there was nothing else they could do for privacy purposes). I was on my own. That is not a good thing. I drive these things but am not savvy enough to fix them.

Oh, one thing I am inserting here, some folks are saying they had problems because of their page counters so I have removed mine just in case.

So how is it that I am here today? Since my main computer is nutso (so bad now that I can't even get it started, says I am missing a certain .dll file which I need to install before it can load. Umm, how do you load a file when your computer won't load? I mean there was a time when I could maybe have done this at the computer prompt but since that isn't even a choice, well, this poor (literally) woman is just plain stuck! Oh yea, how I am here, I hooked up an old computer of mine. It has vision problems, kink of like looking at the print during a wind blown rain. But at least I can get here and to my banking, my Google reader, my email and groups and Sparkpeople where I keep track of my calories and so much more. Hey I believe the computer has an umbilical cord connected straight to me! Yep, I have been dying.

So now the next step for me in the frustrating saga? I need to find the box that has the original computer disks to reload on my other computer. I have gone through at least 30 to 40 boxes that are yet unpacked and no luck thus far. I am also going to check my portable zip drive and see if that file is there. I may find someone who can tell me how to get it on my other 'puter right? Maybe?

So, I will not be crafting for awhile it seems. I won't bother you all with my sad story until it is resolved. If you are wise to my problems and leave a comment of advice I intend to check here to see. It would be most appreciated.

Frankly if you read this you must be one of my most sincere friends and God bless you!

Creatively until next blog.....

Shout Outs! Brad tute, Amazing help dieters...

2008-08-02T17:04:00.003-04:00

Okay, I have to tell you that I recently began my "new life style" aka diet. LOL! I am thrilled to announce that I have hit the 10# mark! Now to repeat that 9 more times.... anyway, I want to share the website that is super for tracking what you eat, finding the help you need to get and (I hope) keep you motivated and so much more! It's called Sparkpeople and you can find the link at the right of my blog. Did I mention the entire thing is free?
Oh, they even have a Sparkgroup for rubberstampers, yea it was the first one I added myself too. LOL!

Now, for the other shout out. For a long time I have been wanting to put together a tutorial on dressing up brads. I don't have to anymore because at Mel Stampz you will find a wonderful article with great inspirational pictures to boot! If you don't have her site in your google reader (Okay I snuck another shout in but this is where I keep up with all the blogs I love so easily) add it!

Have you ever noticed my writing meanders just like my mind???

Leafing It to Autumn

2008-08-01T12:29:00.024-04:00

So much to learn and do and so little time! I bet you can relate to that statement too right?

While at the Artists of the Round Table bash recently, one of the attendees taught us a couple types of marbling. The first sample uses the easiest form aka Suminagashi.

Autumn is my favorite season of the year and tonight’s class utilizes three main dies by Spellbinders that have leaves on them. I am not going to go into how to use the Wizard the instructions are on a DVD you now get with the machine. The three dies are:
S4076 Assorted Leaves
S4011 Harvest 2 Leaves
S3092 Foliage

In this first sample I cut three leaves from the Suminagashi paper I made. I spent an entire day watching all of season five of Smallville and made papers what fun! I have a nice stash ready. I made them in card size.

Encaustic wax technique.

I used regular and pearl crayons on black glossy for this one. The next few show different samples I prepared. I like how when I ran it through it kind of took a little off the edge so I pulled some off the veins on purpose.

This is another easy and fun tech. You will also note I used the oval dies to make the window and one of my new textures to add the dimension to the layered piece. Cindyc loves her textures!!!

This scan looks messy but the card is gorgeous. After cutting out the leaves, I used the discarded paper with the leaf shape holes as a stencil and chalked on color using my Judi-Kins Color Dusters.

I then traced with a Stardust pen. You can't see it in the picture but it is stunning!

You know how Northwoods always has glitter cards that stop everyone in their tracks? They are just the right light touch of glitter. Well this is that look without the hassle! Just trace and you get just a perfect hint of sparkle. They will be great with the new snowflake dies too!

TIP: If you cut your shape from thin craft foam you could use paste for a thick design.

On to 4:
Now Spellbinders does have a nice slim doll type die that they carry but those who know me wouldn't recognize me trim... giggle. So I used the child doll die for me. Much better!

If you looked ahead you will see what I used for her clothes and wings. In this case it was Kroger’s version of Dr. Pepper cans. Yes, pop cans! The thin aluminum in most soda cans works fine. I would guess most beer cans too but can't say for sure. Just cut & emboss like paper in your Wizard. I then added Adirondack alcohol inks.

The doll was stamped and the background made using the polish stone technique then stamped too with a leaf stamp from HIT.

Notice the pop cans in the next pic and then the following pic shows the embossed cans before coloring. A pretty look all by itself.

On to 5!

Now this one is a bit more complicated as I couldn't stop myself. First notice the following pic; it is a scrap piece of butcher paper left over when I made my scarf with the Adirondack color sprays. I have a lot of it and it is gorgeous! Lol

First I die cut some Harvest 2 leaves from fun foam aka craft foam. I then used them as stamps. I decided I wanted some dimension so I traced the leaves with an embossing marker and poured on Ranger Distress Powders and heated. Remember with Ranger Distress Powders you shake, pour on, heat, and rub off excess to get the “grains” out.

Once the leaves were done I added the flowers. Then it needed something down at the bottom. I chose a thin metal charm that comes in a silver color. This one says “create.” I usually use these to emboss into aluminum foil tape.

I wanted color and texture so I used one of my new textures and ran through. It gives it a lot of angles to catch the light. I then did the polish stone technique on it as well.

See that big yellow circle in the large flower? It is a Great Big Brads! The brads are about the size of a nickel and come in colors and metallic! I plan to emboss those.

Ok, see 6:

Just to throw more ideas at you…. Here the leaves and acorns from the Harvest 2 die are cut from wall paper (via free books). After dry embossing I added more color to the veins by brayering ink on. ‘So simple! I then cut strips from the paper for borders to complete the card.

See 7: What do you see?

I’ll tell ya a Dominos pizza ad! Yes, Scoutdogs, I cut a pizza. Lol! Don’t toss those glossy ads... very handy and aren't the colors perfect?

Ok, on 8: I used a technique I had forgotten about, the lost Burnt bag technique! I used cereal cardboard instead of brown bag. After cutting your shapes smear white school glue all over. Then heat the glue over a hot candle or fire starter. Put it in the fire and keep moving. It will get very sooty. Then set aside to be sure glue is dry. Once dry and cool gently wipe off the soot.

You will get a shiny surface that is very cool. Leave as is or add metallic rub-ons or… take it a step further and add the butterscotch Adirondack alcohol ink. It is super yummy! These would make great hair barrettes or other embellishments.

Try it you will be surprised!

TIP: Keep a tub of water handy just in case. Safety first!

See 9:

I made this for CHA (Spellbinders) a couple of years ago. The leaves on the box are copper that have been heated for color. I think Stacey hauled that box everywhere for about a year. It has been places I will never get to, lucky box. Ü

See 10:

The leaves here were done the same way. The bottle caps were flattened in the Wizard and the polished stone letters are from the Vintage font aka spellbinders! (Two fonts in one). The turkey was colored with chalk

See 11:

“Boo” and the “ghosts” were done with vellum, perfect for this. The pumpkins were transferred in the Wizard using an inkjet printer and “Stewart Superior Transfer Medium” to muslin.

The frame was cut and textured in Wizard too.

Samples as well as instructions are copyrighted and may not be used without the owners permission. Thank you.

Today I am Thankful For..."

2008-08-01T11:34:00.002-04:00

The amazing friends I have made over the years thanks to stamping and the web. YOU all know who you are. You have enriched my life in so many ways. I only wish I could meet and create with you all!

2008-07-29T11:43:00.008-04:00

By Cindy Cade

SUPPLIES:

Scot-It Board
Movable Parts “Just Cats”
Fishing Line or nylon thread
Glue
Tape
Heart template
Copper Tooling Foil
Stylus
Scissors
10 pieces of cardstock cut to 6” by 10” (five for the back of the pages and 5 for the fronts)
Stewart Superior Memories Chestnut Brown ink pad
Ranger Industries Library Green Dye ink pad
“Hearts” and “Cupid” dies by Sizzix
Wizard Die Cut Machine by Spellbinders
Alphabet Stamps
You can find most of these items available at Terryfic Times great prices and service!

DIRECTIONS:
PAGE BACKS:

I chose to use different colors for the fronts and backs. This is optional.
Simply score in the centers (five inches) fold and flatten with your score tool or bone folder.
TUNNEL PAGES:

Score every two and ½ inches producing two mountain folds and one valley fold. Fold and flatten with your score tool or bone folder.
HEART TEMPLATE:

Free cut a heart shape that is approximately 3 ½” wide by 3” tall. Fold in half and use this to score your heart shape on the tunnel pages.

Simply fold the page in half and lay the heart over the fold and trace the template with your stylus or light pencil. If using a pencil it is best to score on the back of the page. Cut out your heart. Now use this first page as your template for your other tunnel pages. Unfold and lay on top of each page and score. You will get the same placement this way.

HEART CHARMS:

I used a Sizzix die to cut out my hearts. I ran it through my Wizard twice producing 8 hearts. I also used the Sizzix Cupid die cutting two.

Use a strong adhesive (I used my 3m tape in my ATG runner) on the back side of four hearts and one cupid. Add your nylon thread and sandwich the matching shape to the back. Now take the hearts to your Scor-It Board and texture.

Tape these to the back center fold of your tunnel pages just above the cut out so the charm dangles freely in the center of the opening.

ASSEMBLY:

Choose the order you would like your charm pages to be and assemble as shown. Take your time to do this right. I used my ATG runner for this.

COVERS:

I simply cut some brown craft paper to layer on the front and the back and taped in place. Score one of the cut out hearts and add chalk to highlight. Adhere to cover.
Now is the time to add those adorable cats. I used my Xyron to make them stick.
On the back page, I used the “Just Cats” card as a stencil and colored with Chestnut Brown Memories Ink. It makes a great stencil!

Finally, I made a little bag to put my book in. With all of those charms wanting to dangle outside the book you couldn’t use a simple enclosure. Besides how fun it is to say; the cat’s in the bag!

If you wish to make a bag simply wrap paper around your book. To avoid having to measure, I just creased the sides where they would fit around the book, took the paper to my Scor-It Board and scored. Then wrap around your book again and tape to form the bag. Slip a box inside and fold the bottom edge as you would a present. Cut the top with pinking shears and add the “Cats” word cut again from the piece that you cats came on.

You are done.

My tip for you!

If you use your Scor-It as much as I do you may find this helpful. Keep a block of beeswax nearby and rub the groove of your tool on the edge. It will now glide on your paper. Repeat as necessary.

Creatively,
Cindy Cade
cjcmlc@horizonview.net

Today I am Thankful For...

2008-07-29T11:00:00.003-04:00

A new addition to my blogs will be the "Today I am Thankful For..." comments. You are welcome to pop one of yours up in the comments section. I will be reading them.

You see, I have this problem with so much negativism in my world. I want to add more balance and joy to my life!

Naturally, as a Christian, I would be amiss not to say thank you to my Heavenly Father for sending His son Jesus, to bear my sins of disbelief and self will which are the sources of all other sin. Andre' Crouch used to sing in one of his songs. "He (meaning Jesus the Christ) looked beyond my faults and saw my need." That touched my heart and still does. No one is perfect, believe me, I never was and know I never will or can be in this world, but I am accepted and loved. What a great and liberating concept!

I am also grateful for my family, my faithful and loving husband, all of my children, my pets past and present and my parents, siblings and yes even in laws.

Don't worry future thankful blogs will be shorter! It may even be a simple word or sentence.

So, is there anything you are thankful for?

creatively,

Bamboo Purse Blanks aka Mats and a Great Source!

2008-07-28T16:23:00.004-04:00

I promised I would post if folks shared where they found the mats.

The best deal I found (Wow) is from Mrs. Lins Kitchen On sale for $4.25 each! I can't touch that price! And they have all the colors!

My buddy Laurie Hunt found them at Two Sticks for $9.00 each but they did not have the natural color.

I found a seller at EBAY that has them for $11.99

Another friend, Diane Adams, said she found some at her TJ Max.

And with that it is time for me to move on to new subjects on this blog. ;-)

Something good out there waits...

2008-07-26T18:59:00.003-04:00

Those who know me would tell you I am not a "cutesy" person. Lately I am being won over but some wonderfully sweet faces. What can I say, they remind me of my just turned 8 y/o dd and 9 y/o ds. Shh, don't tell okay? ;-)

Check out "All Things I Love" where Bev has lots for eye candy and a nice blog candy contest going on right now too! You have until August 9th on her blog!

Two more bamboo purses

2008-07-22T23:35:00.007-04:00

Another of my bamboo purses featuring Embossing Arts Stamps.

This one uses stamps by Evolving Images

These tiles were a bit larger.

My First Blog Candy!

2008-07-22T23:13:00.011-04:00

So you want to make your own Bamboo purse? Here are the two main ingredients needed. Yes, both the tile mat and purse liner could be yours if your name/number is called.

How do I win you wonder? It is simple!
Just add my Artistic Extras Blog link to your blog and leave a comment telling me where to see it.

Don't have a blog? Just leave a comment about my purse and promise to share my blog with at least 3 of you best artist friends.

Seeing as my blog is so new I will use a random generator to pick the winner on (or about) August 15th!

Bamboo Purse Tutorial

2008-07-22T18:56:00.012-04:00

By Cindy Cade©

This is probably my most popular tutorial. Should you decide to make one expect a lot of compliments and questions.

We begin with a simple bamboo tiled placemat. Do NOT take the mat apart. Depending on the size and shape of your mat you will fold in half either vertically or horizontally.
Some that are longer will not work out to even rows and will not have an actual flat bottom. The ones I carry are a bit smaller and you end up with an extra row at the bottom which is very handy!

Now depending on the color of your tiles, you will either clean them and stamp directly or put down a coat of paint to stamp on.
Once cleaned and dried we are ready.
First take a scan of your mat. You only need the amount of rows that will make up one side of your purse. Print. Take whatever stamps you think you might like in your layout and stamp them onto a piece of transparency. Cut the pieces out. You can move these stamped pieces around on your template to see if the stamps will work well on a tile
grid and where the best placement will be. If you happen to have a digital camera, I suggest taking a picture of the completed layout to use as a guide.

Now, ink up your unmounted stamp with a permanent ink. I chose Stewart Superior India Ink Black. Pick the inked stamp up carefully by the edges and lay on the bamboo tiles. Hold in place with one hand while gently pushing all over with the other until you feel you have transferred the entire image. Lift carefully. Most likely you will make a mistake or two along the way, they are quite slippery. If you do, quickly remove the spot
with a rag. If that doesn’t work use which ever ink remover is recommended for your brand of ink. Finally if it is already set into the bamboo you can sand.

(Side 2)
Heat set after every stamping so as to avoid smearing.
Now to ad color. You can use about anything, Versacraft inks, oil pencils, markers, dye inks, just be sure to dry and heat set. After coloring the images ad lots of color (well I do!) to the background by applying with your fingers. I used both Adirondacks dye and Archival inks.

Once the coloring is complete dry fully. Seal with several coats of Krylon UV protective matte sealer and a coat or two at the end with gloss if desired drying fully between coats.
To build the purse: This next step is very fortunate since my sewing machine is unreachable at the moment. The mats I use are the perfect size to combine with the child size tote bags found in the craft department at Walmart as your liner! They do make a nice size, not too big, not too small, purse too.

Personally I like the addition of fibers. To add them I punched holes in the liner and added eyelets to tie them through. See the picture.
Plan where the eyelets will line up with the spaces left between the tiles in the bag when inserting.
Lace up the side of the mat. I have used both organza ribbon and satin cording for this. Don’t lace too tight as you want to be able to open your purse! You may begin lacing from the top down or visa versa.
I added the fibers to match (ribbon/cording) and tied beads.
Finally, attach Velcro to the purse by cutting adhesive backed strips about the vertical length of the tiles. Attach them to the tiles with the scratchy side facing the tiles and the fuzzy soft side facing the liner. Remove the backing from the smooth side now and adhere to the inserted liner. This way they will line up perfectly. It is the Velcro that will carry the weight of the bamboo and hold the purse together.
I highly suggest that you sew the smooth side to your liner for extra strength.
Your purse is complete. Make a matching key ring if you happen to have bought extra mats.

All rubber stamp images used for this sample are the property of Hearts In Touch.

Random Thoughts

2008-07-22T12:03:00.005-04:00

Tutorials, techniques, tips, shortcuts, substitutions on a budget, yea I love all of these things.
As I figure out what all it is that I want to accomplish here I will be adding some of my tutes and finds from time past. If you are in a hurry for them feel free to join my CC's Tutes yahoo group. With this blog I may eventually just switch it all here. I am not sure just yet.

Flourished Windows

2008-07-20T22:43:00.009-04:00

What does one do when they don't have all the going trendy tools? Why they improvise of course! And so I have.

I wanted to use one of my Shakers and Movers die kits, the one with three windows. (I purchased mine from Terryfic Times). Now, I am sure I could have used the window die three times to get nine windows, but I like things easy and knew they would be a great investment so I purchased three of them. Bam, nine windows and the card cut in one run. If you think I am compulsive, you will be sure when I tell you I just ordered two more of these 3-window dies so I can make cards with 15 windows at once. LOL

Okay, on with the card. Having cut the windows, I stamped my chosen image (imagine it has windows too, I see a clear theme here....) called "Scripted Sculpture" from Diva Impressions on an orange/white cardstock. I then added more color with Marvy Matchables #5 yellow, #92 celery, and #9 pink.

Next I wanted some flourishes that are so popular right now stamped on the background but alas I have none. So I took my Sizzix Bigz Die - Decorative Accent w/Flower and cut a piece of fun foam. I slapped that baby on my acrylic block and a stamp was born. I stamped with Stewart Superior India Black. I also cut some doodles from the same die using Prismatics swatch book (also from Terryific Times).

I glued my pieces in place and backed the windows with yellow ochre cs.

Finally I doodled lots of white dots and stripes with my Ranger Opaque White pen.

Is this fun or what? LOL! It was a good Sunday.

Creatively.......

My House Dress

2008-07-16T23:42:00.006-04:00

I call this card "My House Dress" and I bet you can imagine why. This uses several inks on white glossy just smooshed. Then "paint" on bleach. That is the main background. The dotted one was done with a Cuttlebug folder then inked with black on the raised dots.

The dress: I stamped the Diva Impressions rubber stamp (very cool ya?) with Stewart Superior's India Black and heat set. I then stamped the music note image with Top Boss embossing ink and added clear embossing powder and heated. I then layered on color using Marvy dye inks. Finally I cut out the dress shape using my own designed template.

I doodled on some dots and stamped part of the "house" on to the top of the dress to give a finished look before layering it all.

The Diva Sisters

2008-07-16T23:27:00.006-04:00

It has been awhile, I know. This is all an experiment for now. I know I MUST blog, it is the accepted way to share these days, but shoot, those groups are so easy to do!

Let's play just a bit here and see:

Hmm, it is easy to add images! Hey I may just find I like this after all.

So, the main image is from Diva Impressions whom I happily stumbled upon recently. Pink and brown are so yummy together don't you think? Add some great organza ribbon and kapow!

Artistic Extras The Blog

2007-08-08T23:15:00.004-04:00

It is late, 11:16 pm and I have just created my new blog. Where does that word come from anyway? I don't know about you but it sounds too close to bog as in "I feel bogged down" and that is not what I want my on-line journal to mean.

It seems that I am beginning this adventure with some musings. You don't mind right?

For anyone interested, this seems a good place to write some of my tutorials for rubber stampers and other creative folks. So, that is what you may expect in the near future.

If you would like to see some of what I have done over the years I suggest checking out my PT at: http://www.picturetrail.com/cindyc

Until then, it is off to dream. We can all use our imaginations there.

Creatively,
Cindy Cade

Artistic Extras

'Still Playing After All These Years

Earring Frames

Loving Make the Cut!

Another Rosette for you!

Rosette WPC file

Converting SVG files to WPC Inkscape link

Converting SVG files to WPC

"About a Girl" Featuring Faerie Song Art Stamps!

What a Puzzle! Featuring Faerie Art Song Stamps

I Have a New Hero!

How Exciting This Gazelle Is!

Well the adventure has begun. My Gazelle came Friday evening. Yay!

Gazelle Files and Delivery

Coming Soon: The Gazelle Adventure!

Design Team Thoughts

3D Pop-Out Tutorial can be seen at:

A Valentine

Everyone seems to be into 3D these days so...

Pop Star Instructions

Pop Stars

Seasons of Life part 3 of 3

Seasons of Life part 2 of 3

Seasons of Life

Rubber Road Adventures Newletter

2 New tutes (Sneak Peek)

Give God Thanks Wall Banner

Great Candy!

News, I am coming out of retirement....

A favorite blog of mine

As promised, New Art!

Selling off artsty extras

It has been awhile but....

Today I am thankful for...

Hope is a great word....

Winner of my first ever blog candy is.....

What a week, well what goes down must come up right???

Today I am thankful for...

Life can be challenging... computer problems

Shout Outs! Brad tute, Amazing help dieters...

Leafing It to Autumn

Today I am Thankful For..."

The Cat's in the Bag©

Today I am Thankful For...

Bamboo Purse Blanks aka Mats and a Great Source!

Something good out there waits...

Two more bamboo purses

My First Blog Candy!

Bamboo Purse Tutorial

Random Thoughts

Flourished Windows

My House Dress

The Diva Sisters

Artistic Extras The Blog