Wednesday, June 25, 2025

PLAYING WITH STENCILS - A SIMPLE TAG!

Hello, Crafty Creators!

I had so much fun creating this little tag. I was reviewing a set of diamond/harlequin stencils and wanted to make a quick project video to accompany the review.  I was unsure of where I was going with this, but I am pleased with the results!


I actually used two promotional items on this project. The tag cards come in a box of 100. They are the perfect size for tags, ATCs, and other small projects!

The floral focal was created using pearl-tipped flower stems and a leaf and button in my stash.

I used my diamond/harlequin stencils to create the background. I was afraid that blending the Worn Lipstick, Seedless Preserves, and Lost Shadow would result in a muddy background, but, to my surprise, they blended beautifully!




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Challenges Entered:

THINKING OF YOU - GENERAL GREETING CARD!

 Hello, Crafty Creators!

I keep my desk covered with newsprint. It is cheaper and more convenient, so I can test my markers, dab my blending brushes, and accomplish many other tasks that once required copier paper or paper towels.   

Last week, while recording one of my Amazon Favorites videos, I reviewed a diamond and checkerboard stencil set. My original plan was to stencil a few shapes on my newsprint. But, as often happens in crafting, I couldn't stop there. I liked my design so well that I used it to create a card. Newsprint is a 22 - 24lb paper, so I glued it to 60lb cardstock and trimmed it down!

This project also allowed me to use one of my old Martha Stewart punches. I had forgotten that these punched borders can be so pretty!


I used my MS punch to decorate the top of my note panel inside.
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Challenges Entered:


Wednesday, June 4, 2025

A PLACE TO START - RECYCLE - BROWN PAPER CARNATION

 Hello, Crafty Makers!

This is my second project for A Place to Start!  

I created a carnation using brown shipping paper! I have a ton of this stuff. It helps me craft, and it is helpful in our compost! Twelve years ago, I started making these little carnations when flower dies were not as ubiquitous. I still prefer them to die-cut flowers with white borders.


Now that I have decided to get back to the basics of card making, I am revisiting basic techniques that don't require purchasing anything.  Metal dies were already way too expensive for my taste, and with the tariffs on aluminum and other metals reinstated, I can only imagine.

BROWN PAPER CARNATION

My favorite part of creating the mixed-media background for these flowers is incorporating colors from the other design elements on the project. I also enjoy creating unexpected textures.

My Favorite skin care product is packaged in these cute containers.  I am repurposing this one to give my daughter a couple of small bottles of Essential Oils to use on her Wool Dryer Balls.




Brown Paper Flowers Tutorial


Thanks For Stopping By!
Hugz,
Chana Malkah

Monday, June 2, 2025

A PLACE TO START - JUNE 2025 - ANYTHING GOES w/Optional Twist: RECYCLE

 Hello, Crafty People!

It feels good to be back at my craft table! 
Welcome to another month of fun at 

A Place to Start!

In addition to your fabulous ATG projects this month, we would love to see projects that incorporate or feature UPCYCLED OR RECYCLED items. (For example: recycle embellishments that you pulled off a failed project.) Put your own spin on it and amaze us.  You always do!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY - APTS JUNE 2025
ANYTHING GOES PROJECT

I recently realized that I spend too much time trying to create "unique" projects. I am returning to the basic cardmaking that has always brought me joy!

This simple, straightforward birthday card was created for my daughter.    She is a minimalist of the first water, so I am sure she will like it.


I created my focal point using a very simple floral die set. The sentiment is also from a very basic set. Both were promotional items from Amazon.  I have little faith in the tariff fiasco in D.C., so I am holding on to my pennies.  I do without if I can't find what I want in my Amazon box.  So far, I have been fortunate, and my crafting supply bins are well-stocked.  The Swiss Dot EF has been in my stash for years.  I decided to use the debossed side.  I liked the effect.














Distress Oxide Inks



                  




 










































Thanks for stopping by!
Hugz, 
Chana Malkah