For The Luv of Art

An Introduction.....

2012-01-28T18:43:00.002-06:00

Hello to you all! I am super excited to finally get a chance to post on here and introduce myself. My name is Sherrie Suttles and I am the new owner of For The Luv of Art.

I live in the great state of Ohio with my husband Brian and our two dogs, Reba & Max. I also have two step kids, Kaitlynn 21 and Matthew 18. I began scrapbooking in 2000 after my family took our first trip to Disney. I went to a Creative Memories party shortly after we got back because my sister had signed up to be a consultant. I immediately fell in love with scrapbooking and have continued making albums, cards, home decor items, and altered art ever since. After a few years I began to think about how amazing it would be to someday own my own scrapbook store, but based on where we live and the fact that we already have an LSS close by I knew it probably would not work to own a traditional brick-n-mortar store. So when the opportunity presented itself to purchase an online store, I jumped at the opportunity. After lots of phone calls and emails, Brian and I drove to Indiana last weekend to meet Norma and her family and take ownership of the store. I quickly realized how hard this decision to sell was for her because she put so much of herself in the store, forum, and blog. I just hope that I will be able to run them as well as she did. But don't worry, Norma isn't going to disappear totally from For The Luv of Art. She plans on staying around and participating in the forum and gallery. You can find out a little more about me by visiting my personal blog, Each Days Memories, and seeing some of my work. I can't wait to get this place hopping again!

Thanks for stopping by,

Sherrie!

It's the "I {Heart} Pinterest Crop!

2011-11-12T11:20:00.001-06:00

We are having some fun over on the For The Luv of Art Forum! We are having our "I {Heart} Pinterest Crop". It started yesterday and you have the whole week to finish the challenges....so, it's not too late to join us!

Here's just a few of the fun projects we are working on:

Ellen has a fun treat box challenge for you! How cute would these be at each place setting for your Thanksgiving dinner?

Renee has a fun recipe challenge that involves finding a recipe on Pinterest, making it, then creating a layout about it! How fun is that? We all love Pinterest for the wonderful recipes we find!

Then I have a challenge posted for some decoupage pumpkins! Planning on using these for our Thanksgiving dinner decor! So easy and so fun. You can personalize with whatever color and pattern you choose!

There are a lot more projects and inspiration on the board so be sure you check it out!

Now for the fun....PRIZES!!!!

Norma has hooked us up with some great prizes to be won during the crop!

How about some beautiful Glitz Designs and some other embellies to go with them?

This is such a great prize for boys pages!

And who doesn't love Core'dinations? Up for grabs is this gorgeous cardstock pack with the Pink Paislee designs!

(Hey, I think I want that! lol)

This is just a taste of what's going on, so please hop over to the forum and check out the other fun projects and how you can win one of these great prizes! Remember you have until November 20th to complete and upload your projects so you still have plenty of time to play along! Make sure when you're at the Pinterest Crop category on the forum that you go to the "Check In" thread and let us know you're participating. That's also where you'll keep track of your virtual tickets for the prize drawings! If you just click on the links provided, they'll take you right there! Easy peasy!

So, really, come on over and join the fun! We'd love to have you join us! Who knows? You just might make some new friends and win a prize in the process!

Pinterest Crop!

2011-11-06T17:42:00.000-06:00

We have some exciting news for you! We have a fun event coming up at FTLOA and we want you to be a part!

Head over to the FTLOA forum to get involved! We guarantee you lots of fun and inspiration!

Glitz in the store!

2011-10-14T23:32:00.005-05:00

We have some great new additions of some gorgeous Glitz products now available in the store!

Teeny Alphas

Some gorgeous papers...

Love these "What Nots"

And this gorgeous chipboard album is amazing!

So if you haven't been recently, make sure you head over now to check out some of our newest additions to the store!

It's World Card Making Day!!!

2011-09-30T09:21:00.003-05:00

Ok so maybe it's not actually today! But we are getting started early! What are you doing this weekend? Here at FTLOA, we thought it would be fun to play the whole weekend! That's right! To celebrate, we are have a weekend crop! The theme is "We Are Family" and we are doing way more than cards!

We have challenges being posted all day. There are make-n-takes tomorrow, and they are fun!!! We have lots of great prizes and RAK's up for grabs!

And Norma has been nice enough to include a free mini hybrid kit for participants, so you don't want to miss that! Just look at this....

Free "Friends" Digital Hybrid Mini Album kit

For all crop participants

We will also be giving away some fantastic prizes...

Check out the forum here for all the details! We have a great group of people on the forum and we love making new friends! I promise, you will feel welcomed and loved!

So, come and join us!

Let's do the Twist!

2011-09-23T13:51:00.001-05:00

The My Minds Eye Twist, that is! I am loving the new MME Lime Twist now available in the store! I mean, just look at these gorgeous papers!

Totally loving these tags and journaling spots!

And to bring it all together, these adorable alphas!

And how great would these acrylic flowers coordinate with the MME products? These flowers are

new to the store and they pack a punch. They are nicely sized as you can see in the example of the card Ellen made below.

See...not so teeny huh! They come in a variety of colors too!

If you have been to the store recently, you need to pop in and check out some of the great products available!

Also, don't forget our "We Are Family" crop is on schedule for next weekend! Begins Friday, September 30! You can find out more info here. While you're there, check in on the message board and say hi! We'd love to meet you if you're new and catch up with you if you're not!

Have a great weekend!

"We Are Family" Crop...

2011-09-14T09:25:00.000-05:00

You don't want to miss this!

Mark your calendar now so you can participate in this fun crop.

As always, there are prizes involved!

Yay! Who doesn't like prizes?

Not only that, it gets your creative juices flowing and we have lots of fun!

Come join us...meet some new friends!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!!

Labor Day Inspiration

2011-09-05T10:23:00.000-05:00

Hope you are enjoying your holiday weekend! We thought we'd share a little inspiration with you today. DT'er, Ellen has created a few gorgeous projects with some of the new store products so we thought we'd give you a peek!

Wow! Such gorgeous projects! Thanks Ellen! You can find all of the supplies Ellen used by browsing through our "New Arrivals" section at the FTLOA Store!

And don't forget, we still have that great Labor Day Special going on too! Not only is there a sale, but with your $35 purchase you will be getting a free kit that Norma has put together! It includes 19 double sided papers, 1 alpha sheet, and 1 die-cut sheet! (While quantities last).

And if that wasn't enough, you can also get $5 off your order of $40 or more by using coupon code "labordaysale". But hurry, sale ends 9/11!

Have a great Labor Day!!!

Labor Day Sale

2011-09-03T00:51:00.000-05:00

Announcing More Super-Awesome Stuff

For The Luv Of Art.com Labor Day Sale
We've just released a slew of awesome new products on our site, and it's on Sale!
I am also offering a Beautiful Kit Pack for free with every $35 order.
This kit includes 19 double sided Pattern Paper, 1 Diecut Sheet & 1 Alpha
(Will Ship With Order, While Quantities Last, Items May Be Substituted From Those Pictured)

Ok, here is another treat. Ontop of the Sale and Free Kit here is a $5 off Coupon for Orders Over $40
Enter this code at Check Out ---> labordaysale
Sale Good till 9/11

Make sure to check out our large selection of Clearenced Items in the shop!

buy now »	buy now »	buy now »
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TC World Traveler

2011-08-28T19:25:00.000-05:00

Let me just say, you are going to LOVE this! We have in the store now the brand new Teresa Collins' World Traveler line! This is a gorgeous line. It's great for travel but is so versatile with the beautiful patterned papers and embellishments.

You can grab the collection pack, which would be my choice, so you can get some of it all!

This die cut sheet is so perfect! I love it even for just everyday layouts!

Gorgeous brads!

Some really great chipboard pieces...

And some gorgeous stickers....be still my heart! That flag banner sticker is so great!

And lastly, some beautiful trims!

We have it all in the store right now! And if you prefer, we have the paper sold also by the sheet so you can pick and choose your favorites! But don't wait....I know you'll want to get your hands on these now while they are still available!

Also, don't forget to stop by our forum and introduce yourself. We love meeting new people and making new friends....and we have a lot of fun there too!

Need some inspiration?

2011-08-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

Summer is quickly coming to a close and I don't know about you, but the summer left me in a tailspin of activity, leaving little creative time.

If you're finding yourself a little low on the creative juices flowing, it's time to get your mojo back again! If you didn't know, you can find daily, yes we said DAILY, challenges available on the forum. It's a great way to get back in the groove of creating after a long hot summer! Not only will it get you creating again, but there are prizes too! Go check it out on the forum here.

This was our first challenge of the month by Renee of our DT....

A layout without a photo....

...And here's another challenge by DT'er, Ellen

Just look at that great masking technique!

And then here's a challenge that I issued this month.

Create a layout using a visual triangle in your design.

Can you pick mine out? There's a couple of them actually.

And along with the creating, you'll find a great group of people who love to make new friends and have a great time! So, please come and join us on the forum! Guarantee, you'll have a great time! See you there!

More new product has just arrived!

2011-08-15T09:12:00.000-05:00

As our long hot summer is winding down, it's time to start thinking about.....yes, fall! Can you believe it? I didn't think it would ever get here but I have to say I am ready!

And you can get ready too with all those great projects you'll want to have ready to go when the fall season is here. We have, brand new in the store, the Mischievous line from My Mind's Eye! It is the cutest line with some gorgeous patters and fun embellishments!

Take a look!

6x6 Patterned paper pad

12x12 Paper pack with accessories

"What A Hoot"

"Bewitching"

"Creepy Celebration"

"Darkest Dot"

Chipboard Accessories

Accessory Sheet

Decorative Brads

Isn't it just the cutest line for Fall and Halloween! Eeek, I'm so excited! And right now, not only are these on sale, but for a limited time, you can take an additional $5.00 of your order of $40.00! That's right! Not only a sale but also and additional coupon! That's crazy!!! Just use the code "highfive" when you check out!

And don't forget, our Card-A-Palooza is wrapping up today but you can still get in on the fun! You have until the 17th to upload your completed cards! And if you don't feel you can complete them all, that's fine! At least pick the ones you know you can complete and upload them to that day's thread in the forum. You could still win a great prize!

MME Lost & Found 2 with a coupon!

2011-08-12T10:33:00.004-05:00

We have some brand new product just listed in the store!

My Minds Eye Lost and Found 2 is NOW AVAILABLE!!!!

"Sunshine"

"Rosy"

"Blush"

"Breeze"

Oh my! I am just giddy just posting them all! There are so many more goodies to this line that we can post here so you must go over to the FTLOA store and take a look!

AND....not only are these items all on sale but for a limited time you can get another $5.00 off your purchase of $40.00 or more! How's that for a deal? Just use coupon code "highfive" at checkout! Better hurry because these items are hot!!!

We have more product to share check back right here tomorrow!!!

We're halfway there!

2011-08-08T14:13:00.001-05:00

Our Card-A-Palooza is in full swing! We are currently on day 8 but it's not too late to get in on the fun! You have until Wednesday, August 17th at midnight PST to post your cards! There are some great prizes up for grabs!

Here's a few examples from our message board of the great cards being created....

Day 2 ~ Monochromatic scheme

SylviaB

RebeccaK

Day 3 ~ Create a card using ONLY patterned paper

Simplyamom3

Day 4 ~ Create a card with a window cutout

Melonie

Day 5 ~ Create a card using primary colors

BrendaB

Day 6 ~ It's all amount mini cards! Create two mini cards...

Creativelyme

Day 7 ~ Create a card that looks wrapped like a present

SherryC

RebeccaK

Day 8 ~ Scraplift a card from the cover of Kimber Gray's book that we are giving away!

We are already getting some great submissions for today's challenge!

See what I mean about the great inspiration? Head over to the FTLOA forum to see all the challenges and submissons! You can find the Card-A-Palooza under the "Everything Cardmaking" thread. And sign in to play along.....after you're finished, you'll have a stash of cards just ready to go.....just add the sentiment!

It's Card-A-Palooza baby!!!

2011-08-02T09:25:00.000-05:00

Welcome to day 2 of Card-A-Palooza! If you don't know what I'm talking about, check it out here!

We are off and running and boy, do we ever have some mad card-making skills going on!

The first challenge was issued yesterday and it is this....

Challenge 1....

Use your diecuts...

Yes, it's that simple! We all have them....you know, tucked away in those little spots, saving them for something...
Well, now is the time to use them!

Here's DT Ellen's example.....

Isn't that great? Now remember, these are all cards with no sentiments so that you can just pull one and add a sentiment when you need a card. So, just leave a little room to place your sentiment later, if you choose. Or if you just want the card without a sentiment, that's fine too!

We already have some great submissions posted.....here are a few from the FTLOA gallery.....

Ashjoy

SylviaB

Sherry C

Simplyamom3

Melonie

Tracy F

Brenda B

Mom2twinsplus1

Even owner, Norma Kennedy got in on the action!

See what I mean? Wouldn't you love to have a stash of these great cards just sitting and waiting for you when you need them? It's not too late to get in on the action! Check out the thread on the message board for Day 1 here.

Day 2 Challenge has already been issued! You can check that out on the message board here.

We invite you to come join the fun! If you're new, you're welcome to participate and if you've been lurking around, come on out of the shadows and play along! We're having so much fun and did I mention.....PRIZES are involved!!!!

See you there!

Layout with no photo???

2011-08-01T09:53:00.001-05:00

It's time to introduce our August challenge here at FTLOA. Are you ready?

I don't know about you, but when I get ready to do a layout, the first thing I start with is a photo. Everything else builds from there. Well, this month, Creative Team Member, Renee, has issued the challenge....to create a layout WITHOUT a photo. Sometimes just words can speak volumes! And that's our challenge for this month.....

August Challenge

Create a layout without a photo...

Here's Renee's layout.....

See what I mean? That's an amazing layout and not one photo is on the page. Just journaling!

So, let us see what you've got! Create your layout and upload it to the FTLOA Forum here. We can't wait to see what you do!

Are you ready for this? It's Card-a-Palooza!

2011-07-25T12:38:00.002-05:00

The always amazing Kimber Gray has a new book out that has given us a wonderful idea! How fun would it be to have a card-making frenzy going on so you always have that right card for each occasion!

For The Luv of Art presents a fun event you'll want to be a part of....

....have you seen Kimber's new book? It's amazing!

A big thank you to Kimber for donating a copy for our giveaway!

So, to be involved just head over to the FTLOA Community where you'll meet a great group of people who love to craft and you'll have lots of fun....we promise!

This week's challenge

2011-05-13T12:12:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone! This is Sheri. Are you ready for this week's challenge? I think it's a fairly easy one, technique-wise, but may be a bit more "out of your box" type of challenge!

Here's my challenge layout:

Wanna know the challenge part? (hee hee) Here it is:

1. Create a layout using a color combination that is not one you typically use or gravitate to. For me, it's the green and yellow combo. I like yellow, but I am not a green person at all, let alone, those two colors together.

2. On the same layout, use a circular effect for your title. I think this is the first layout I have ever done (that I can remember) using a circular title. I see it done a lot, but just never tried it.

That's it!!! Easy peasy but I know both things may be out of the box for some of us (it was for me!).

Make sure you're head over to the forum on this thread, and post your layout. Remember, if you participate, your name will go into a random drawing for the month, and you could win a store gift card! But you have to post it in the forum thread!

Have a great Thursday!

Back to the Basics Challenge

2011-05-07T13:02:00.000-05:00

Good afternoon! Hope you're enjoying your scrappy day so far! This is Sheri with another challenge. This challenge is a "Back to the Basics" challenge. Here's a hint....

Now head over to the forum for more details.

Prize this hour will be a Pink Paislee Daily Junque giveaway that you don't want to miss! Go check it out!

It's Game Time!!!

2011-05-07T09:02:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone! This is Sheri with a fun game for this hour! We're going to see how well you know your favorite manufacturers!

Head on over to the forum now because the games have begun! Up for grabs this hour is a fun Pink Paislee Daily Junque prize pack. But in order to be eligible you must be playing on the forum!

See you there!!!!

Join Us For National Sprapbook Day

2011-05-07T07:57:00.000-05:00

We are so excited and have so many FUN challenges and Games planned in the Forum for you today. The prize packs are fantastic .....giveaways you won't want to miss out on !!!!

Everything in the Store is 20% off , this even includes all of our digital products...... wooohooooo

Here are just a few sneak peeks of the giveaways and or RAKS:

We are even giving away Store Gift Certificates. The way to find out how
you can win is by heading over to the Forum. I sure hope you will join us !!!!

Norma ♥

Come Join Us!!!!

2011-05-06T10:56:00.001-05:00

Stop by tomorrow and join us!!!

We look forward to seeing you!!

Thursday Challenge - 5/5/2011

2011-05-05T10:14:00.000-05:00

Happy Cinco De Mayo everyone! Renee Lamb here with this week's Thursday Challenge. I'm not sure about the rest of you, but I was completely thrown of kilter with Mother's Day being so early this year, but here it is already!! And if your Mother is anything like MY mother, than she is very hard to shop for. So one of the things I love to do is put my creativity to use and make a gift. Except, now that I'm older, they are less macaroni art and more useful items and one of my favorite projects to make as gifts are framed pictures. It's just framing a scrapbook page. So that is my challenge for you to today. I want you to create a layout that can fit in a frame and be displayed proudly.

It can be any size and any theme. 4x6, 5x7, 8x10, 12x12. You decide.

For mine, I chose to scrap this picture I took of me and my family when I was home in January. This picture means a lot to us because this picture was taken the day before my Grandma went into heart surgery. It's been a long road back to recovery with blood clots and strokes but, luckily, she is mending well. The photo is a 5x7 trimmed to about 3.5x7. The layout itself measure 8x10 to fit into the same size frame. I wanted something that would be easily displayed on a table or mantle somewhere. I used the Echo Park - For the Record line for this.

You can find the Echo Park For the Record line here in the For the Luv of Art store!

So get to scrapping those framed layouts! And let me know if you made it for yourself or for someone else!
Hope everyone has a great and safe Cinco de Mayo and a very special and loving Mother's Day!

~ Renee Lamb

Thursday Sketch Challenge

2011-04-28T08:30:00.014-05:00

This weeks challenge is to use this sketch to create a layout. The layout can be any size you'd like and you can modify the sketch however you choose to make it work for you! Have fun!
Here's my take on the sketch!

Supplies used:
Pink Paislee "Hometown Summer" Border Stickers Pack
Pink Paislee "Hometown Summer" 6x6 Petite Pattern Paper
Pink Paislee "Hometown Summer" Punchouts
Pink Paislee Hometown Summer "Summer Fun" 12x12 Paper
Pink Paislee Hometown Summer "Sunnyside Lane" 12x12 Paper
Pink Paislee Hometown Summer "Neighborhood Pool" 12x12 Paper
Pink Paislee Hometown Summer "Heat Wave" 12x12 Paper

**Remember, if you participate in the weekly challenges throughout the month, you are eligible to win a store gift card in the random drawing at the end of each month. To participate, simply play along with the challenge and post your completed design in the appropriate week's thread**

Welcome To Our Blog Hop Featuring Pink Paislee

2011-04-22T06:11:00.004-05:00

Yay welcome to our Blog Hop. We have a ton of inspiration for you all and a bunch of free goodies.

All you have to do is simply visit each blog today and leave a comment and it will add your name to the drawing on each Blog.

Here is the list of Blogs to visit:
Carrie Ferrier : http://carrieferrier.blogspot.com/
Sheri Twing: http://auntierere.blogspot.com/
Jaime Warren: http://jaimewarren.typepad.com/
Lisa Day: http://lisaday.typepad.com
Renee Dezember: http://reneedezember.blogspot.com/
Renee Lamb: http://reneelamb.wordpress.com/
Norma Kennedy: http://redrediris.blogspot.com/

We have a wonderful selection of products in the SHOP but I want to make mention of Pink Paislee. There designs are Gorgeous and they offer a variety of embellishments that are perfect for every style !

Home Town is one of my favorite lines and I can't wait to show you what I created on my Blog using it so make sure to swing by !!!!

their other new releases are:
Soiree, Butterfly Garden & Daily Junque...... all AMAZING lines !

Also just for Today I am offering for my Blog Hoppers a discount code that will take $10 off ur total of $45 (just enter : bloghop <---- at checkout) ... woohooo so HAPPY Shopping !!!!

Have a Blessed Day, Norma ♥

It's All About The Circles!

2011-04-21T09:00:00.001-05:00

I love scrapping with shapes - butterflies, stars and especially circles. I love how using circles on my layouts allows me to use a variety of patterned papers that would normally be too busy to use in larger amounts. I also love how I can use one line of patterned papers from one company all on one layout - that way I don't have to pick and choose which patterns to use! When I received my Pink Paislee goodies I couldn't wait to dig in! I immediately knew I wanted to use circles so that I could incooperate as many of the gorgeous patterns and colors as possible.

Here is what I came up with!

I simply used a stencil and cut out different sized circles - some I kept whole and some I cut in half! I also cut some circles from the circle patterned paper.

So, here is my challenge for you - go crazy with the circles! Layer them, pop them up with pop dots - get creative! Maybe make a flower out of several different sizes of circles! I can't wait to see what you come up with - be sure to share a link to your project in the comments section!

XOXO - Jaime Warren

Pink Paislee Inspiration Coming Soon

2011-04-20T20:59:00.002-05:00

Click On Image to Enlarge and see Details

Scrap Your Childhood Pics!

2011-04-07T12:44:00.004-05:00

This week's challenge was inspired by an experience I had a few weeks ago when I was looking through old photos of my grandparents. There was a box of amazing photos of picnics, closeup shots of cousins, and fun everyday shots. The problem with this box of photos was that no one knew who 50% of the people in the photos were.

It made me sad ... all these amazing everyday life photos needed to belong to someone. Someone's granddaughter or great granddaughter needed to have these precious memories ... but we didn't know who the people in the picture were, so we don't know who to give the photos to. Big dilemia!

That's when I made a serious mental note to get my own childhood photos, my hubby's photos {and my parents childhood photos that I have} in some kind of order. I got busy, and so far I've put all my old photos in a photo album and all photos are labeled. If they stay in the photo album forever, and never get put on scrapbook pages, that'll be ok ... at least I know they are clearly labeled for my grandchildren, and great grandchildren to enjoy and claim as a part of their family history.

Sooooo..... back to this week's challenge. {sorry, i got on a roll for a minute there}

This week's challenge is simple ... grab some of your favorite baby/childhood photos, and scrap them.

Using the delicious new Glitz line {found in our For the Luv of Art store}, I created this page using a couple baby pictures of myself.

{Click on images to see larger}

3/31 Thursday Challenge Something Hybrid :)

2011-04-03T21:41:00.006-05:00

...Hi there it's me Renee'... This week's challenge is all about channeling your inner digi self! You DO have it in you! It's time to make a project...either a LO, card or even an altered project we aren't limiting you to one certain thing...but it MUST use a hybrid element somehow. You can download some amazing digital papers or even digital stamps...but the key is to MIX it with what you feel already comfortable with...PAPER! Here's my card... I used a digital stamp by Jane Beljo and the 6x6 Petite paper pack Hometown Summer, along with some of their diecuts...I added some ribbon and a SRM Sticker sentiment and Ta-Da an adorable "Miss You" card. I can't wait to see what everyone comes up with...time to get busy and don't stress out about the whole digi thing...have fun...I know you will be surprised with jusy how FUN it really is! **Don't forget, if you participate in the weekly challenges throughout the month, you are eligible to win a store gift card in the random drawing at the end of each month. To participate, simply play along with the challenge and post your completed design in the appropriate week's thread**

3/24 Spring Challenge

2011-03-24T05:57:00.004-06:00

Hey there, this is Lisa. It's officially spring! Although in Michigan you wouldn't know it. We got hit with a major ice storm yesterday. Fun! But, last weekend we did have a beautiful spring weekend. I decided to do this weeks challenge to celebrate what spring is like in your area.

For this challenge create a layout that celebrate what spring is like for you. If it's still winter(ish) in your area see if you have any pictures from previous years that you can use for your layout.

The Studio Calico Countryside collection has some beautiful patterns and colors that are perfect for spring layouts! My favorite is the Barn Swallow paper. The return of the birds is the first sign of spring to me! Love listening to their chirps first thing in the morning!

**Remember, if you participate in the weekly challenges throughout the month, you are eligible to win a store gift card in the random drawing at the end of each month. To participate, simply play along with the challenge and post your completed design in the appropriate week's thread**

3/17 **Ad Inspiration Challenge

2011-03-17T08:30:00.000-06:00

Happy Thursday everyone! This is Sheri and I'm so excited to share this week's challenge with you!

I thought it would be fun to use inspiration from an ad for our challenge. I love looking at ads for ideas! Companies spend thousands, if not, millions of dollars on advertising, so why not put that to work for us. I love getting color combinations, page layouts, and even typeface ideas from magazines, ads, and even store displays.

Here's my inspiration ad for this week's layout.
I chose a page layout from an Anthropologie catalog.

I love the look of this...the random placing of the photos and the spots of text where I would put journaling. This is out of my box and not what I would typically do on a layout so this was a challenge for me as well!

And here is my layout based on the inspiration page:

My layout uses several of the new Studio Calico patterned papers now available in the FTLOA store!

Studio Calico Barn Swallow

Studio Calico Harvest

Studio Calico Countryside Wildflower

Studio Calico Mister Huey's Color Mist in Lemonade

So, here's the challenge for you.....

Create your layout or project using an ad for inspiration. You can either use the same ad I used for mine or you can use your own choice. If you use your own choice, please make sure you share that with your layout/project when you post it in the forum.

**Remember, if you participate in the weekly challenges throughout the month, you are eligible to win a store gift card in the random drawing at the end of each month. To participate, simply play along with the challenge and post your completed design in the appropriate week's thread**

So, come on....show us what you've got!!!!

3.10.11 Thursday Challenge -- I heart St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-10T01:00:00.001-06:00

The wearin' of the green is coming next week. While I'm not Irish, I did marry a McGray. So by default, I *must* celebrate St. Patrick's Day. ;)

Many times I go to make a card for St. Patrick's Day but, I don't have any clovers. I have a stamp or two but nothing more. So how to make or use a shamrock on my cards? Grab a handy dandy heart punch or die cut and group them to make a shamrock. Easy peasy! Right?!

Check it out!

So Lucky card by Kimber McGray

Cardstock: Kraft and Core'dinations

Pattern paper: My Mind's Eye Stella Rose and more...

Alphas: Jillibean Soup

Brads: My Mind's Eye

Sticker: My Mind's Eye

Ribbon: American Crafts

Punches: Stampin' Up!, Marvy, Creative Memories and EK Success

Give it a try!

-kimber

3-3 Challenge .. Pattern Papers Galore!

2011-03-03T11:03:00.000-06:00

Happy Thursday! Time for another weekly challenge!

I don't think I'm alone in my love for pattern papers. I can't think of a scrapper out there who doesn't own stacks and stacks of delicious pattern papers!

This week's challenge is all about those pattern papers in your stash!

Challenge: Create a layout using at least FOUR different pattern papers.

Here is what I created using some of the beautiful new MME Stella Rose collection of papers & chipboard.

{click on images to see larger}

**The entire collection of MME Stella Rose is available now in the For the Luv of Art store! http://www.fortheluvofart.com/search.aspx?manufacturer=69

Thursday Challenge 2.24.11

2011-02-24T07:00:00.000-06:00

Good Thursday! Kimber here with this week's challenge. Even though Valentine's Day is over, don't put away those doilies. I had a few sitting on my desk staring at me. I'm not so much a doily person but, I wanted to use them some way. I decided to see if I could make some flowers out of them.

1st up, I made a spiral paper flower. It's pretty simple, 1st just cut the doily in a spiral pattern from the outside to the center.

For this flower, I then started to roll it from the inside to the outside so the scalloped edge was showing out the outer edges.

Then I glued it onto a punched circle and put a pretty pearl brad through the center.

Doily flower card by Kimber McGray

All Supplies from the For the Luv of Art store

Cardstock: Red Shimmer

Pattern Paper: American Crafts

Pearl Brad: American Crafts

Doily

Brown and White twine

Next up I started with with 3 doilies and cut them in half to end up with 6 pieces.

Fold each piece into a cone and secure the corners to create a cone.

Glue the pointed tips to a punched circle. Fluff the open ends of the cone.

Simple!

All Supplies from The Luv of Art store:

Cardstock: Glimmer Red and Core'dinations Whitewash

Pattern Paper: American Crafts

Sticker: American Crafts

Ribbon: May Arts

Pins

Doily

Now I challenge you to go grab those doilies and make some pretty flowers for your cards and layouts! Load them up in the gallery too for all of us to see!

Have a great one!

-kimber

Thursday Challenge - February 10

2011-02-10T09:22:00.001-06:00

Happy Thursday to ya! Renee Lamb here bringing you another challenge this week!

With Valentines Day quickly approaching (in case you haven't noticed all the pinks, reds, cupids and hearts everywhere) it's this coming Monday. So, in celebration of this romantic day filled with some of my favorite colors and elements I am basing this weeks challenge on creating a project, layout, or card using a Valentine's Day staple.

It can be the color combo of red, white, and pink or it can be using hearts, a cupid, love in your title. Ideas are endless so just let your heart lead you and have fun! Can't wait to see what you create. Just be sure to share with us in the Challenge section on the forums and in the Gallery!

Here's my example (which all products used can be found here at the FTLOA Store):

Supplies are listed below with direct links to product.

Supplies:

American Crafts Delights "Eternal" Embellishment Flowers

Making Memories Je t'adore Collection "Heart Doily Diecut" 12x12 Pattern Paper

For The Love of Art 4-ply 15 yards "Baker's Twine" Your Choice

Zva Creative "Taupe" Self Adhesive 12" Double Pearl Chains

For The Love of Art Red Small "Paper Flowers" Bundle

For The Love of Art Pink Medium "Paper Flowers" Bundle

American Crafts Remarks "Irresistable" Phrase Stickers

Thursday, 2/3 Challenge

2011-02-03T04:00:00.002-06:00

Hi everyone, I am thrilled to be here with my first post as part of the amazing new team at For The Luv of Art. I knew I wanted my first challenge to be a sketch challenge, because I am a HUGE sketch fan, so this is what I created...

Then I took my sketch and made this, which I love...

Here are a couple closeups...

Norma sent me the most wonderful items form the store to work with this month, and the only things I added from my stash were the light blue cardstock and some mists. I cut out snowflakes uning my Cricut, and there you have it.

I can't wait to see what you create with this sketch!!

Introducing our new HeArt Challenges!

2011-02-02T13:56:00.003-06:00

Hi girls I am here to introduce to you a new monthly challenge......"HeART" Challenges

I hope that you all will participate and tell all of your friends about it !!!!! Carrie and I are

super excited and hope that you will be too !!!!

Also keep an eye out for our New Improved Blog that will be coming really soon.

Here is a link to the forum where you can get more information on this challenge:
FORUM
Click on the image to see a zoomed copy.

1-27 and 1-20 Thursday Challenges!

2011-01-27T13:18:00.000-06:00

How about a couple fun challenges to boost your mojo this week?

Last week's Weekly challenge was to use office supply on your page.

Go ahead, raid your office supply drawers and see what fun things you can add to your scrapbook page!

Here's my take on the challenge:

{paper clips, desk calendar page, small notepad paper, and the inside of a security envelope}

{click on images to see them larger}

And this week's Weekly challenge is to all about COLOR!

The challenge is to use handstitching, and the Green and Blue color combo on your page.

{click on images to see them larger}

Happy Creating! To be eligible to win a store gift certificate at the end of the month, post an image of your completed challenge project in the appropriate week's thread in the CHALLENGE FORUM.

Design with Packaging!!!

2011-01-13T17:37:00.000-06:00

Happy Thursday! I'm excited to give this week's challenge.

I'm sure I'm not the only one who has noticed that some of our scrappy supplies are sold in gorgeous packaging. You know what I mean .. the little cardboard packaging that your Basic Grey, Prima, Studio Calico {and many more} goodies come in.

I have a confession ... I save that beautiful packaging. My stack of packaging has actually become another "embellishment" for me.

So, you guessed it ... this week's challenge is to: use scrapbook product packaging on your layout/card.

I used this pretty packaging from some of my Studio Calico rub-ons

And created this page using the packaging: {click on images for a larger/closer look}

Just a reminder, if you participate in the Weekly Challenges, and post your image in the appropriate Weekly Challenge thread in the Challenge Forum, you are eligible to win a store gift card at the end of the month. I randomly choose a winner at the end of each month from all that month's participants.

I look forward to seeing how you use your scrappy packaging!

~by carrie~

Tuesday Challenge 12-28

2010-12-28T13:52:00.000-06:00

This week's challenge is all about scrap lifting. Below I have posted a layout from each of our FTLOA designers. Your challenge is to scrap lift one of the designs below. {click on the image to see it larger}

1. Choose a layout to scrap lift.
2. Create your take on the chosen design.
3. Post an image of your design here in this thread, along with letting us know which design you chose to scrap lift.

Choice #1 to Scraplift: Carrie's Layout

Choice #2 to Scraplift: Brianne's Layout

Choice #3 to Scraplift: Ellen's Layout

Choice #4 to Scraplift: Jessi's layout

Choice #5 to Scraplift: Julie Ann's Layout

Choice #6 to Scraplift: Renee's Layout

Choice #7 to Scraplift: Norma's Layout

Have Fun Creating! Remember to post your completed challenge work HERE. We'd LOVE to see what you create ... and it makes you eligible to win a store gift card at the end of the month.

~by Carrie

Tuesday Challenge! 12/21

2010-12-21T12:03:00.001-06:00

Since things might be a little crazy this week, I thought a photo challenge would be fun! So, I made a photo scavenger hunt as your challenge for this week.

How it works: You need to take a new and original photo of each of the following. Come back here and start a new post add the photos. There is a little tree image in the upper right hand corner of the post you can use to add them to the post. Feel free to start a post and edit it as you take them.

1. Your Christmas Tree. Let's see 'em!

2. YOU. Take a photo of yourself. You and only you. No family, no pets. Just you.

3. Your favorite thing right now (sky's the limit)

4. Your Scrapbooking Table/Desk RIGHT NOW!

5. Someone you love in a Santa hat.

6. Your favorite project you created within the last 3 months.

7. A favorite decoration or ornament.

8. Freebie--> any photo you want to share..make sure you tell us why!

Have fun!!! :) :) :)

Click here to get to the Challenge forum.

D.I.Y. Make Your Own Christmas Wrapping Paper and Gift Bag

2010-12-18T04:00:00.004-06:00

It's Julie Ann here with another Handmade Holiday project idea for you. Making your own Christmas Wrapping Paper and Gift Bags is an absolutely beautiful way to envelop those handmade items you're giving to family and friends. Why not show off your creativity from beginning to end? There are countless ways to make your own wrapping paper, I chose to use basic kraft paper, paint, foam stamps, and glitter. Then I used some left-overs of my handmade wrapping paper to trim a handmade gift bag, and for a handmade card as well.


Handmade wrapping paper by Julie Ann Shahin


Handmade Wrapping Paper, Handmade Gift Bag, and Handmade Card by Julie Ann Shahin

I used one of my tag punches to make gift tags for the presents.


Gift Bag by Julie Ann Shahin


Holiday Card by Julie Ann Shahin

Here is the template that I used for the gift bag from about.com

Gift Bag Template - keep the proportions of the bag the same and you can make a gift bag of any size. This gift bag is quick and simple to make and can be decorated with rubber stamps and other embellishments.

Additional Ideas and Resources

How to Make Creative Gift Wrapping Paper with Kid
How To: Make Typographic Gift Wrap
How to Make Beautiful Homemade Gift Wrapping Paper: Gift Wrapping Paper with Natural Prints
Homemade wrapping paper
stitched gift wrap

I hope you are inspired to make your own wrapping paper this holiday season! Be sure to share your creations in our Gallery!!!

xoxo,
julie ann shahin

Friday Member of the Week 12-17

2010-12-17T07:58:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday!!!

I'm happy to announce that Debsunshine is this week's Member of the Week!

I actually met Deb several years ago at a weekend crop that the local scrapbook store here in my town was holding. She traveled from Michigan for the crop. The thing that stood out to me as I saw Deb's scrapping style back then, and still see today, is the way she showcases the 'here and now' of her family and their daily lives. I love the way Deb often enlarges her photos to keep the focus on the photo. I also absolutely am impressed with how she makes journaling a big part of her designs.

This is a fabulous example of Deb's journaling style. {click on the image to see it larger}

Congratulations for being this week's showcased member of the week Deb!!! And thank you so much for inspiring us with your work!

Go HERE to see Deb's entire gallery.

~by Carrie

Tuesday Challenge - December 14

2010-12-14T09:37:00.001-06:00

Can you believe there is only 11 more days till Christmas! Where has the time gone and if you're a procrastinator like me, you're starting to get real nervous about finding the perfect gift for that special someone. Not to mention trying to be frugal and not break the budget. It seems the list for presents grows longer and longer each year. Between teachers, coaches, babysitters, siblings, parents, nieces, nephews, grandparents, or anyone who plays a significant role in your life - where does it end? This is where the gift of your creative talents plays a role. Why not put that little more love into your gift by making one for them? Think of all the things in your home that with a little paint, glue, paper, or embellies could transform trash to a treasured gift?

Today's challenge is to make an altered item to use a gift.

It can be a home decor item, picture frame, recipe box, or how about using empty tins for handmade note pad holder? Or how about the handmade ornaments that Julie Ann shared with us last Tuesday? There are endless ideas and think of the gratitude and appreciation from the recipient!!! **Just a warning though - you may be tempted to keep it for yourself but remember - it's a gift! LOL**

Here is a tree that I altered from a piece of wood. (I am lucky enough to have Shanna Vineyard who owns a scroll saw and is awesome with her woodworking skills - not to mention her very fun patterns who cut this adorable little tree for me). And I have to apologize - I do have the pattern for this tree to share with you but will have to add it later. The tree measures 12'' tall. Perfect size to cover with a normal 12 x 12 sheet of paper. The damask pieces and polka paper in the star is MME - So Sophie which can be found here in our store here. If you don't have the ability to cut your own pattern from wood - just remember to get creative. Cardboard works just as well too and think of all those boxes that you'd be recylcing!

So get to creating that perfect gift for someone! And be sure to share with us in the gallery and in the Challenge forum! Merry Christmas!!! ~ Renee

Products in the Store:

This Week's Member of the Week!!!

2010-12-11T17:38:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to our member, BethM, for being this week's member of the week!!!

I learned that Beth lives in Indiana, just like I do. In fact I learned that Beth lives only a short hour and 1/2 from me. This absolutely BEAUTIFUL wintery project by Beth jumped out at me as I was going through the gallery. It is so very fitting for us gals living in Indiana, because baby, it is cccooollldd out there right now!

{click on the image to view it larger}

Thank you for inspiring us with your beautiful work Beth!!! We're so glad you are a part of the For the Luv of Art family.

~by Carrie~

Twin Bows and SRM Stickers

2010-12-08T01:45:00.002-06:00

Good Morning!

Ellen Sosnoski here and I wanted to share a quick and easy way to add pizazz to twine bows. It is super simple and fun. Also, I added a fun SRM Sticker to this card and they are available here in the FTLOA store.

First, cut your twin twice as long as you normally would for your bow. And fold in half.

How tie a bow...you will see it has an extra loop.

Just trim that third loop and you have a nice even bow.

Voila!

Here is the finished Card....

Have a creative day!

Tuesday Challenge 12/6 - Make An Ornament

2010-12-06T02:09:00.173-06:00

It's Julie Ann here with a brand new challenge for you all! Make An Ornament. Be sure to post your creation in the gallery and on the Tuesday Challenge thread in the Challenge forum. Also check out Renee's thread for a Handmade Ornament/Card Exchange.

Here's my examples for the challenge. I made paper Butterfly Ornaments, a Paper Flower that turned out to be the Tree Topper (I'm giving it away as a Christmas gift), and a Butterfly Garland. Don't they look fabulous on my feather tree?

Instructions:
For the paper flower, I cut 2" strips, and glued the ends together to form petals. Then I glued the petals together. Next, I cut two strips of patterned paper, used a punch on along one edge. Then folded the strips accordian-style. I glued them together to form a circle. I punch two more circles, and attached them over the tinsel-trim. To make smaller flowers, cut 1" strips instead.

The butterfly ornaments were traced from butterfly patterns. Some of them I edged in glitter. Some of them I attached two shapes in the center with pop-dots for a 3-D effect. You can get the butterfly patterns here.

Products Used To Create My Ornaments:

My Mind's Eye "Sisters" So Sophie Graceful 12x12 Circular Bliss

1. Paper Ornaments - Stacked, 2. Vintage Paper Christmas Ornaments, 3. Crepe Paper Ornament, 4. DIY Angel Fairy 3D Paper Ornament, 5. House ornaments, 6. Snowflake Ornament, 7. Little Red House Ornament - Altered Domino - Stocking Stuffer - Gift Decoration, 8. ice skates, 9. kusudama flowers, 10. Aqua Naughty or Nice, 11. full ornament, 12. Miss Silver Snowflake Ornament

I hope to see the gallery filled with lots of fun handmade ornaments! xoxo, julie ann

Friday Member of the Week - Suzanne (Lousyananut)

2010-12-03T09:25:00.000-06:00

I love perusing the gallery at For the Luv of Art and soaking in the amazing talent that is shared in there. And each week it gets better and better and, holey schmoley, I could choose each and every one of you talented ladies to spotlight!

Today's special lady not only has an eye for layers and art but she makes the boards fun with her spunk and amazing sense of humor!

Please join me in congratulation Suzanne (lousyananut) for being this weeks Member of the Week! You can check out her gallery here: lousyananut.

This layout she created really caught my eye with her use of layers, distressing and multiple photos. She managed to artfully make this page cohesive and pleasing to the eye with her design and textiles.

CONGRATULATIONS Suzanne and thank you for being such a great part to our For the Luv of Art family!

REMEMBER - keep submitting your work because you never know when your turn will be to be our Member of the Week! Happy Friday!

New Digital Designs, Christmas Cards, Christmas Albums, Freebies and more !

2010-12-03T08:35:00.013-06:00

Hello , I just wanted to give a quick shout out to our FABULOUS Graphic Artist. They have been hard at work creating so fantastic goodies.

I will also let you all in a little secret ...shshhhh they are working hard to bring you some FUN days with gifts that every one will love. Coming real soon !!!!

Angel Hartline's latest addition is this sweet Ornament Hybrid Album Kit. Ohhhh the possibilities for gifts this Holiday Season ! Imagine your loved one opening this gift....How Special !!!!
I simply Adore these Recipe Cards that Laura Burger created. Another great gift that won' take much time at all. You can simply print a few of these, tie a ribbon around them or you add your favorite recipe.......and you will be giving truly the gift that keeps on giving !

Theresa Hernandez truly makes some of the most GORGEOUS patterns I have ever seen. How about a special layout that you can frame as a gift using her Pattern Papers !

Looking for an easy way to collage multiple pictures? Well Amy Teets puts a simple tool into your hands that takes all the guess work out of it for you. Her collages are perfect for printing or even for showing off your multiple pics on your Blog.

Make sure to check out Janet Carr's section. She has created a variety of the most BEAUTIFUL Gratitude Cards. These cards you can use over and over again by simply dragging in your photo and you have a quick, amazingly stunning card to send to a loved one !

I have also created a Few Holiday/Christmas Digital Cards along with a Krafty Winter Kit. How about printing your own cards this year at home? It is soooo easy by simply dragging in your photo and voila you have an Amazing card to mail. Also take a moment to check out all the envelopes and the many colors and textures we offer in the store !
My Digital Store

We also have a GREAT freebie section so make sure to check that out !

Mini Recipe Albums

2010-12-01T11:16:00.000-06:00

With the Holiday Season in full gear and your ovens and stoves working overload, this months kit is packed with everything you need to gift those hand baked/cooked goodies! I am going to share with you a mini Recipe Album I made using this months kit. Not only would this be stylish showcased in my kitchen but handy. I can keep my favorite recipes tucked into the pocket and just pull the recipe tag out when ready for use! Versatile, cute and useful - and would even make a great gift on it's own for your favorite cook! Who can ask for more in a mini album??!!! -

You will notice I used the wax goody bags as my pocket to hold my recipe cards. I also made my own recipe cards by using blank index cards that I picked up from walmart for .44 cents and the stamps in the kit. They are the perfect size and embellishment to create my own recipe card! You can purchase the kit in the store here to make your own mini recipe album or make one as a gift! The great thing with mini albums is once you get your theme down - just follow it through each page. Quick and Easy! Have fun creating your handmade gifts and Happy Holidays everyone!

November 26/Member of the Week

2010-11-26T14:00:00.000-06:00

It's that time again. For the Friday Member of the Week. Do you want to be spotlighted as our member of the week. If so, it is very simple...just load your creations to the For the Luv of Art Gallery!! That's all there is to it. Every week, we go through the gallery and see everyone's beautiful creations, and then we try to make a very tough decision to spotlight one Beautiful Member and their work!! See how easy that is.

On to this week's Member of the Week, which is PATTI!!!
This layout of Patti's caught my eye. I know what you are thinking...because of my obsession with banners!!! But actually the first thing that caught my eye on this one was the beautiful photos...aren't they great???

And of course, I love the banner:):) Plus, Sugarland's Stuck Like Glue is a favorite song around here. Lucas and Isabelle sing it all the time. The colors are also just so gorgeous together.

And, Patti is also a wonderful card maker. I just love this autumn card she made. So perfect!!!

Thank you so much for sharing your lovely work with us Patti. I can't wait to see more!
Love, Jess

MEMBER OF THE WEEK!

2010-11-20T17:28:00.000-06:00

Hello. My name is SLACKER. Otherwise Known as Jessi:):) I am here to post the member of the week. A day late, and I am sorry about that! I always have such a hard time picking a member of the week too, because there is always such great pieces in the gallery. I just happen to see these cards earlier and they really caught my eye. They are so CUTE!!!
So this week the member of the week is.................Rebecca Keppel. Aren't these cards adorable???!!!

And here are some layouts that I really love by Rebecca:

I just love the design on this one...and all the little elements work so perfectly together.

By now, I think you all probably know me enough to know why I love this...the BANNER! heehee. and i love for anyone to do pages about themselves. This is how the future generations will know about us.

Please visit Rebecca's blog here to see more great stuff:

http://www.rebeccakeppel.blogspot.com/

Thanks Rebecca for sharing your wonderful work with us!
Love, Jess

Therapy.

2010-11-17T08:24:00.000-06:00

As most of you know, I have been having a very rough couple of weeks. First I want to thank all of you for all of your thoughts and prayers! It really means a lot to me. The great thing about this hobby is the ability it has to bring such great creative minds together, and i have found some of the most supportive, caring women through For the Luv of Art. I am truly grateful for that today.

Yesterday I needed to keep my mind busy, so I scrapbooked. A form of therapy for me. While I was scrapbooking I was listening to my new Sugarland C.D. called The Incredible Machine. It is a metaphor for the heart. I'd like to share some lines that are especially meaningful right now to me...

"A heart that beats
An incredible machine
made of blood and love
and hope and lust and steam." ~Sugarland

Isn't the human heart amazing? It has the capacity to feel and deal with so many emotions. Love. Hurt. Pain. Happiness and Joy. Unbelievable Sadness. And yet it keeps beating and coming back just as strong if not stronger. I'm keeping this in mind as my heart is hurting right now, and it keeps me moving and going. It's a struggle when anyone loses a family member, and everyone grieves in their own way. Right now, part of my grieving process is scrapbooking about Mammaw Sadie because it helps me to smile and remember those great moments we had with her.

I know the November Kit was meant for gift-giving, and I will be using some of it for that, but right now I needed to make layouts with it. These are both made with the November Kit, and I just love this kit. It reminds me so much of Mammaw, with the chickens and all the kitchen and food goodies. Some of the best memories I have are in her kitchen. I guess the kitchen is the heart of the home. Although I didn't have a lot of pictures of her printed out in her kitchen I still found this kit beautiful for the pics I did have. The first one is her and Isabelle when she was just born. They had such a special bond from Day One, and it's funny but a lot of times when we took the kids down to see her, Isabelle and Mammaw would have on the same colors!! I made the little heartstrings banner using a doily and twine from the November kit with Stamps of Norma's too. I used the Heartstrings stamp and the heart stamp from a past kit.

While we mostly scrapbook because it makes us happy, don't forget that sometimes it really can help you. It can provide you with a therapy like no other. It can help you work through things in your own way. Thanks for stopping by and thanks again for everything!
Love, Jess

Tuesday Challenge - 11/16

2010-11-16T08:00:00.003-06:00

It's Tuesday and with that brings on another fun challenge! Be sure to post your creation in the gallery and on the Tuesday Challenge thread in the Challenge board. I hope you play along!

This week's challenge is to create a layout with NO PHOTOS! Yes, I am breaking the rule that all layouts must contain a picture! So not true! Some of the best stories, memories or life happenings are best documented by focusing on the journaling itself! Whether you choose to make a list (see Ellen's post about the 5 things you are thankful for) or you choose to tell a story, just focus on what you what to tell! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------->>> NO PHOTOS!

Here's my example. I chose to tell a story about where I saw my life 15 years ago, to where it is today and how who knows what the future will hold! I used some scraps leftover from September kit and found some older lined paper to really take advantage of the space with my journaling.

Can't wait to see what y'all come up with! Thanks!

Giving Thanks

2010-11-15T11:49:00.004-06:00

I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder. ~G.K. Chesterton

From the QuoteGarden.com

I thought with Thanksgiving approaching it would be nice to post some things I am thankful for. Please share your lists with us. I love reading these kinds of things and it is important we take time to do this.

1. My family and their health.
2. My Friends. I have the best friends a girl can ask for. And when I thought I couldn't possibly be blessed anymore, I found FTLOA and made even more friends for life.
3. Second Chances.
4. The sun, the moon, the stars, the earth...and that so many people care about her today.
5. That I love my job. I know so many people work everyday at a place they cannot call home and I am so thankful I can do that.

Have a great week everyone. And let's make sure we do this EVERY Day! :)

Ellen

11/12/10 Member of the Week!!!

2010-11-12T15:04:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to a fabulously creative and inspiring scrapbooker and mixed media artist, Amy Baldwin aka curlyqmosaics, for being this week's Member of the Week at For the Luv of Art!!!

Her work is always intriguing and sometimes takes my breath away! This is a card she posted this week in the gallery....and she has a tutorial for this amazing card on her blog.

As I mentioned her mixed media work, here is one from our gallery that is just so inspiring ....

And she makes different styles of perpetual calendars, but this Prima one is my favorite! What a great gift idea!!!

Thanks for checking out Amy's work with me. Please let her know you appreciate her creativity with a comment or two!!! Have an awesome weekend, enjoy those Sales including our own, see coupon below from the newsletter:

Coupon for $4.00 off of $75.00: SWEETTREAT good till November 20th

Teresa Collins

2010-11-11T01:54:00.000-06:00

Hi Everyone!

Ellen Sosnoski here and I wanted to share with you a layout that I created mixing and matching some of the Teresa Collins Lines that Norma has in the For the Luv of Art store.

I combined the new Celebrate line with some of the Journal It Notes from the double sided 12x12 paper. I just love how these papers are double sided so if you don't want to use all the journal notes, you can flip over your paper and use the backside.

Have a great day!!!

Buttons and Shapes and Ribbons ... Oh My!

2010-11-09T10:32:00.005-06:00

Happy Tuesday weekly challenge day!
Dig out your button stash, your shaped paper stash, and your ribbon stash for this week's challenge. The challenge is simple; create a layout or a card using the combination of buttons, shaped paper, and ribbon.

Here is what I created using the button/shaped paper/ribbon combo...{click on images to see them larger}

Did you know just by participating in the weekly challenges you are eligible to win a For the Luv of Art store gift card? Yep! At the end of each month I randomly choose a winner from a list of all the members who participated in completing any of the weekly challenges. To qualify, it's simple ... just complete your challenge project and upload an image of your work in the appropriate week's challenge thread in THIS forum.
Go for it!! I'd love to see your creations for this, and other weeks', challenges!

11-05 Friday Member of the Week

2010-11-05T06:01:00.003-06:00

Happy Friday everyone!

Ellen here with this weeks Member of the Week. I have known Kristen Simmonds for a long time and have always admired her creative abilities. She is one of the hardest working people I know, too. I LOVE seeing her awesome projects in the gallery! Check out her gallery here.

LOVE the design on this one...and the colors and all the fun embellishments!

Having two boys myself, I am always a sucker for a great boy layout and this one is no exception:

AND...did you know that Kristen was the big winner of our Shimmerz contest???? Check this beauty out...

Have a great weekend! Keep uploading those projects and you might see yourself here next Friday!

Stamping Fun

2010-11-04T18:05:00.004-06:00

Scrapbooking started for me back in 1999. I will admit, since 1999 I've collected some pretty darling stamps/stamp sets. And I will confess that until recently I've been a 'collector' of darling stamps; meaning I didn't use them, I just displayed them in my scrapbook room and admired them.

Those days are gone. Now, I will also admit that I'm not the type of stamper who colors between the lines and creates masterpieces with my stamping; I think that is an art form all on its own. An art form that I haven't mastered yet.

But I AM having an absolute ball using my stamps in a way that suits me to a 'T'. Ways that are fun for me, ways that are "me", and ways that I find incredibly easy and pleasing to my eye when I look at my pages.

On the layout I designed today, I used some of the stamps in the gorgeous For the Luv of Art 'La Mode' stamp set, as well as a fun high heels stamp set by Hero Arts.

I have used my 'La Mode' stamp set over and over the past couple months. There are still some left in the store. Go HERE to get yourself a set! Have fun with them ... I'd love to see your stamping creations in the gallery!!

Weekly Challenge 11/2/10 -- Tiny Greetings

2010-11-03T11:19:00.001-06:00

Hi everyone!! It's Leslie here, with another weekly challenge.

Hope you're ready, here we go!

tiny things are just so CUTE. they make you say..."aww!" lots!
SO....I want you to:

Create, in any you choose....
small "greetings" to send to friends, family....anyone! Or keep for yourself..but not your normal, every day size.

here's my examples for you:
(I used the October kit for my greetings, adding a few things from my stash)

happy creating!!

xoxo,

Leslie Ashe

Happy Halloween!!!

2010-10-31T10:24:00.001-06:00

Happy Halloween everyone!! Are you getting ready to take your kids trick or treating or did y'all go last night? Here, our city had trick or treat last night so this post may be a day late and dollar short but in the chance you have little spooksters running the hood tonight be sure to check out some safety ideas and have a Happy and Safe Halloween!!

Also be sure to check the For the Luv of Art store out to get everything you need in order to scrap all your favorite Halloween memories!! My Mind's Eye, Pink Paislee and don't forget the awesome SRM Stickers! Be sure to check it out - I can't WAIT to get to scrapping my little ghouls this year!!!

And as a special Halloween treat to you Norma is offering a $5 off coupon with a purchase of $25 or more - just enter highfive at checkout!!! There is so much to choose from so be sure to check out everything new in the store here: http://www.fortheluvofart.com/anewproductslatestuploads.aspx

A few safety tips from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission can protect children who plan to go trick-or-treating this Halloween.

Treats: Warn children not to eat any treats before an adult has carefully examined them for evidence of tampering.
Flame Resistant Costumes: When purchasing a costume, masks, beards, and wigs, look for the label Flame Resistant. Although this label does not mean these items won't catch fire, it does indicate the items will resist burning and should extinguish quickly once removed from the ignition source. To minimize the risk of contact with candles or other sources of ignition, avoid costumes made with flimsy materials and outfits with big, baggy sleeves or billowing skirts.
Costume Designs: Purchase or make costumes that are light and bright enough to be clearly visible to motorists.

For greater visibility during dusk and darkness, decorate or trim costumes with reflective tape that will glow in the beam of a car's headlights. Bags or sacks should also be light colored or decorated with reflective tape. Reflective tape is usually available in hardware, bicycle, and sporting goods stores.

To easily see and be seen, children should also carry flashlights.

Costumes should be short enough to prevent children from tripping and falling.

Children should wear well-fitting, sturdy shoes . Mother' s high heels are not a good idea for safe walking.

Hats and scarfs should be tied securely to prevent them from slipping over children's eyes.

Apply a natural mask of cosmetics rather than have a child wear a loose-fitting mask that might restrict breathing or obscure vision. If a mask is used, however, make sure it fits securely and has eyeholes large enough to allow full vision.

Swords, knives, and similar costume accessories should be of soft and flexible material.

Pedestrian Safety: Young children should always be accompanied by an adult or an older, responsible child. All children should WALK, not run from house to house and use the sidewalk if available, rather than walk in the street. Children should be cautioned against running out from between parked cars, or across lawns and yards where ornaments, furniture, or clotheslines present dangers.
Choosing Safe Houses: Children should go only to homes where the residents are known and have outside lights on as a sign of welcome.

Children should not enter homes or apartments unless they are accompanied by an adult.

People expecting trick-or-treaters should remove anything that could be an obstacle from lawns, steps and porches. Candlelit jack-o'-lanterns should be kept away from landings and doorsteps where costumes could brush against the flame. Indoor jack-o'-lanterns should be kept away from curtains, decorations, and other furnishings that could be ignited.

Happy Halloween!!!

10-29 Friday Member of the Week

2010-10-29T10:08:00.006-05:00

Congratuations to the fabulously talented member, Anna Sigga, for being this week's featured Member of the Week!

Anna's style always inspires me. Her work is always full of soft touches and amazing photos. Check out one of Anna's designs that she posted in our gallery this week.

And here is another one of Anna's gorgeous designs she posted awhile back...

To be inspired by more of Anna's designs go HERE.

Don't forget, if you would like to be featured as one of our Members of the Week, all you have to do is upload to our galleries. The design is always on the look out for inspiration that pops off the page at us!!

My Mind's Eye Alphabet Soup

2010-10-27T14:09:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone! Ellen here and today I wanted to share with you a fun project I loaded into the gallery last week with some MME Alphabet Soup. I just loove this line and it is surprisingly versatile. You might think that you can only do kid and baby projects with it but that's not true.

Here is a little box that I altered. I love Laughing Cow cheese and I am recycling these all the time and the one day, I just pulled off the label and thought that I could salvage it.

SO! out came the Glimmer Mists and Shimmerz and I went to town. The material was really pourus so I sprayed a lot. Next I use my Spellbinders and cut some scalloped circles, made a bow from the Pink Paislee trim. Finally, no gift box is finished without a tag and a bow ;) Check out the May Arts Ribbon Norma has in the store!!!

The cute little guy is from the 12x12 Sheet of die cuts. I LOOOVE die cuts so much. They make life just so much easier ;)

Here is the box after I ripped off the label:

Next, I sprayed and Sprayed a mix of Glimmer Mists and Shimmerz. Both are available in tehe FTLOA store.

Add your die cuts and ribbon and you are done! The trim is some Pink Paislee trim that I just turned into a flower.

10/25/10 weekly challenge

2010-10-26T13:34:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone, Jessi here. Since Halloween is this week I thought I would do the challenge based on the colors associated with Halloween. However, the catch is to use Black and Orange on a non-Halloween Layout or card. Here is my example:

Have fun with it and let's see what you can create!!!
Love, Jess

Friday Member of the Week

2010-10-22T21:09:00.000-05:00

It's Friday and time for the Member of the Week!!! This week as I was looking through the gallery and browsing the blogs of our members I was struck by the work of one of our long time members. She is always such a great presence on the forums and one of the friendliest girls I've come across online! This week LEIGH's work really caught my eye.

Don't you just love the colors on this and the whole design is great!!
And this one...

They say you admire in others' work what you are lacking in your own. I know this must be true, because I absolutely love Leigh's ability to use multiple photos on a layout and make it gorgeous. I have always struggled with that! And I am probably supposed to stick to layouts to showcase, but I cannot end this post without showing a different side of Leigh's creativity....this Halloween outfit she made for her daughter has me amazed!!! It is SO ADORABLE!!! I don't feel comfortable posting a pic of her little girl on here without first asking her permission, so please go take a look at the outfit
HERE HERE HERE if you haven't seen it and give her some love:)

I also saw another Beautiful layout on her blog too. This girl is Super Talented and we are so lucky to have her as a part of the community at For the Luv of Art!!!

Go visit her blog, To the Full

where you will find endless inspiration!

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend:)
Love, Jess

Tuesday Challenge

2010-10-19T16:54:00.008-05:00

Tuesday is here ... time for another weekly challenge!!!
Alot of people shy away from using stickers on their pages. Some even consider stickers to be 'old school' and not 'in' anymore. I don't happen to be one of those people. I use stickers alot on my pages.

So here's the scoop on this week's challenge. Dig out your stickers. Be creative, think outside the box and use at least THREE stickers on your layout/card.

Here is an example of how I used some of my fav clear stickers from SRM on my page.

...And another example...

I'm pretty much addicted to using clear stickers. Click HERE to see the entire 17 pages of SRM clear stickers in the store.

10/15 Member of the Week!!

2010-10-16T00:30:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to Melissa Elsner for being this week's Member of the Week spotlight!

Melissa has been busy creating some amazing designs and sharing them with us in the gallery this week. Each and every time I opened up one of her creations I was inspired. Melissa uses photos that are special to her, and mixes them with fun groups of embellishments to 'tell her story'. Her pages warmed my heart. And she's a darn good card maker as well!

Here are just 2 of her pages that she loaded to her gallery this week.

To see the rest of Melissa's gallery, go HERE.
THANK YOU Melissa for being an active member of our gallery and for inspiring us with your work!

Feeling the need for Dimension on your projects?

2010-10-13T07:34:00.009-05:00

Well, if you have been in the forum or in my gallery lately, you will know that I have a new love....Ranger's Dimensional Pearls. Norma picked some of these for the store and you need to try some. They are the perfect accent to any project.

Here is a close up of how you can use Dimensionals as small accent dots on your projects...

For this journal, I used the dimensionals on Chimney and colored it in...Can you see how the light picks up the yellow accents? SO COOL!

And here I used it as the center to the butterfly. You can see on this one it isn't as raised as the others. Sometimes they dots get a bit pointy. You may want it more "rounded". To do this, let it dry a few minutes and then wet a paintbrush and pinch off the excess water. Then tap the paintbrush in the dot and it will pat it down a bit for you. Again, make sure you let it dry a bit and the brush isn't very wet.

Have a GREAT day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tuesday Challenge 10/12/10

2010-10-12T08:00:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone! Renee here. I'm excited to bring the challenge to you this week because it came to me while I was working on the FABULOUS kit for October!

Have you ever worked with papers that have such beautiful patterns you want to do more with it than just cover it up? Yeah, me too. Hence the reason for today's challenge.

Look at the papers Norma and Amy created exclusively in this months kit:

Don't they just get your creative wheels rolling? The FIRST thing I wanted to do when I tore open this paper pad was individually fussy cut the patterns from some of the sheets of paper! This is probably one thing I do ALL. THE. TIME. I love to fussy cut patterns from paper to use as free and quick embellishments.

Take a look at a couple projects I did by cutting one of the black scroll frames from the 8x8 sheet of paper, the dress form from another sheet and the big blue flower is from yet another sheet. I created these projects by just using mostly fussy cut embellishments from the 8x8 paper pad. With a little stamping I had quick, easy and super cute projects done!

My challenge to you is to create a card, altered project, layout by fussy cutting the pattern from a sheet of patterned paper and using it as some sort of embellishment!

So go through your papers and start looking at them as possible embellishments! Be sure to upload your project to the Challenge thread here: and also to the gallery! Look forward to seeing what you come up with!

October Kit Reveal "La Mode"

2010-10-11T03:00:00.003-05:00

Introducing "La Mode" October Kit:


You can grab your Kit Here: http://www.fortheluvofart.com/OctoberKitLaModeTheYellowBagKitClub.aspx It is being sold at Willow Traders & I have a feeling it is going to sell out fast ! Norma also created a link that every month will display some items that will make GREAT Add-on to go along with your kit. Here is the link: http://www.fortheluvofart.com/monthlykitadd-on.aspx

Now for the DT layouts..............!!!!


Layout by DT Member Renee Lamb

Card by DT Member Renee Lamb


Layout by DT Co-ordinator Carrie Ferrier


Project by Julie Ann Shahin: Glassine Envelopes Attached with Metal Rings. Glassine Envelopes, and most Ribbons from the For the Luv of Art store. Glitter Ribbon, Baker's Twine, and Background Paper from the October Kit. Other: Vintage Lace, Vintage Photos, House of Three Frames, Word Art, and Brushes.

Layout by Julie Ann Shahin: Everything from October Kit except for Sisters Tag , Prima Flowers (both from FTLOA Shop); Pink Butterfly Paper, Vintage Pin, Journaling Stamped Tag, , and Tim Holtz Frame.

Layout by Julie Ann Shahin: Everything from October Kit except for Silver Butterfly and Shimmerz Paint (which are from the FTLOA Shop)

More layouts coming soon.............
Hope you like!

Shop Now

Mrs. Skull Tutorial - Home Decor Featuring My Mind's Eye Haunted Flocked

2010-10-10T12:21:00.001-05:00

Cue Halloween music: "This is Halloween" to get you in the seasonal spirit!

Don't you just LOVEEEEEEEEEEE what My Mind's Eye did with Kraft and Flocking this year for Halloween?

My Mind's Eye Haunted "Paper & Accessories Kit" Flocked Halloween

My Mind's Eye Haunted "Harlequin" Flocked 12x12 Kraft Pattern Paper

My Mind's Eye Haunted "Cardstock Accessories" 12x12 Sheet

I found it totally irresistible. Here's what I made for home decor combining it with a skull shape from Say It With Letters.com., and next my tutorial.

TUTORIAL

Step 1. On the back of your paper, place shape face down and trace lightly.

________________________________________________

Step 2. Cut out the tracing with scissors or your craft knife.

________________________________________________

Step 3. Cut the eyes & nose out. Cut slits for the mouth and teeth. Then, holding the paper and shape in place, face up, press the mouth and teeth paper in, and crease where it needs to be cut.

________________________________________________

Step 4. Repeat the above step for the side slits. Adhere the paper to the wood shape. Then embellish and hang.

________________________________________________

I finished her off with a ribbon bow, chandelier earrings, prima flower eyes, and misted a white feather silver! Almost everything can be found in the For the Luv of Art Shop!!! :)
Thanks to DT Member Brianne for the color combo inspiration!!!!

Happy Halloween!

xoxo,

julie ann shahin

Friday Member of the Week!

2010-10-08T08:00:00.044-05:00

Happy Friday everyone! It's finally FRIDAY! And that means I have the honor today to recognize and highlight a very special and talented lady!

Please join me in congratulating Sherry C for being our Friday Member of the Week!

Here are a couple projects that really caught my eye this week:

I love her use of texture with the mix of fabric and corrugated cardboard and letters on the layout (and how cute that she put the photos in the windows of the house!) and love the embossing and inking on the card mixed with the written pattern paper!

Sherry is not only creative with her inspiring work but I love how her personality just shines through the forums. She is uplifting, funny and witty and is always there to encourage her peers. We are so happy to have her as part of the For the Luv of Art family!

Be sure to check out her gallery for more inspiring work! Sherry's Gallery

Congrats girl! ♥

October Kit Sneak Peeks from the Design Team (updated with Kit Introduction)

2010-10-08T00:27:00.001-05:00

This is one fabulous and amazing kit - a great value for your money! It is absolutely versatile, you can use it for your Halloween photos or it works as a non-Halloween kit as well. Here are a few peeks to hold you over the weekend.........update (ETA: Norma has introduced the kit on the forum early HERE as it is also being sold as Willow Traders and it might sell out early, be sure to get yours!!!)


Layout by Julie Ann Shahin - all items from October Kit except for Silver Butterfly


Layout by Julie Ann Shahin: all items in October Kit except for Vintage Pin, Pink Butterfly Paper, and the Tag below the Vintage Pin


Project by Julie Ann Shahin: Glitter Ribbon, twine, and background paper from October Kit; Glassine Envelopes and additional ribbons from the For the Luv of Art store; Vintage crochet lace and seam binding from personal stash

In case you missed the posts on the message board, here are the kit sneak peeks posted by Norma....

Woohooo I am really getting excited about the 10th !!!!!

Here are the first 2 sneaks:

and your third sneek.
It will be an 8x8 paper pad.... a collaboration with the super TALENTED Amy Teets ....wooohoooo!!!!!!

Are you excited now?
xoxo,
julie ann shahin

Tuesday Challenge!

2010-10-05T06:30:00.000-05:00

Good Morning! Happy Tuesday!

Today's challenge is posted in the Forum so head over there to check out more details. This week's challenge is to bring out that inner animal in you! Yes, we are scrapbooking a photo that has an animal in it. It can be a photo of a pet, a critter you found outside or it can be like mine where the animal is a prop. Sky is the limit, just make sure it's an animal IN THE PHOTO. Here is my take on it using some My Little Shoebox goodies from the FTLOA store. They are from the Happy Valley line.

I used the journaling spots that come on the 12x12 to create a landscape scene along the bottom.

Have fun! Make sure you get your layout posted in the gallery and link it up in the forum.

Halloween Garland Tutorial

2010-10-04T00:01:00.001-05:00

This month you will be seeing a lot of orange and black, and kiddies getting ready for trick or treating. I love Halloween...the dressing up, the candy, and decorating...probably one of my favorite Holiday's to decorate for(besides Christmas of course). Today I want to show you how I made a Halloween garland to help spice up my house and decorations. It is so easy to make, which is a definite plus for me:)

First, you need to gather your supplies.....

1.) double sided cardstock or paper: I chose My Mind's Eye double sided cardstock in the Blackbird collection. Can be found HERE.
2.) a circle punch of your choice...you could actually use any shape you like.
3.)thread and sewing machine

STEP ONE:
Punch out all of your circles....

Don't forget to save your negatives from punching your circles...they can always be used on other projects or masking:):) Reduce, Recycle, Reuse!!

STEP TWO:

Layer two circles together...repeat until all of your circles are paired up.

STEP 3: Sew down through the middle of your circles. Remember to leave enough thread at the beginning so you can tie up somewhere if you would like.

Little tip: It always helps if you slightly stick out your tongue while working....helps me concentrate a lot better!!

STEP FOUR: Continue feeding each of your paired up circles into the machine...this should be how it is coming along so far....

Keep in mind that you want to keep sewing in between circles....I usually sew about three stitches in between circles.

STEP FIVE:

After sewing through the middle of all of your circles, be sure to leave some thread at the end too. Then open up all of your circles.

Repeat until all circles are open, and you are done!! You should end up with something similar to this:

You can do these as long as you would like. I have made a couple and one was closer to six feet...one was 8 1/2 feet long. The length is completely up to you.

There you have it, easy as pie!!! And speaking of pie, if you want to make up a little pumpkin pie while you are creating these, please let me know and I'll be glad to come over and help;)

Love, Jess

October 1 - Friday Member of the Week

2010-10-01T12:47:00.004-05:00

Happy Friday. And happy October 1st!
I'm happy to annouce this week's For the Luv of Art member of the week.
Congratulations to Lori Mancini {aka llmancini in our forums}.

Lori's beautiful work in the gallery this week really caught my eye. Her use of texture, rich colors, excellent design, and beautiful photos, work together to create eye catching, warm and inviting pages. Her designs inspired me. I'm sure they'll inspire you too. Here are a few pages that Lori loaded to our gallery this week.

Not only did Lori's work in our gallery inspire me, but as I read through pages of her blog, it too inspired me. Click here to see her blog: Lori's Blog
Congratulation Lori, and thank you for inspiring us!!!

A New Tuesday Challenge

2010-09-28T09:58:00.000-05:00

HAPPY TUESDAY everyone!

The new Tuesday Challenge is UP at the forum - CLICK HERE to view it (that is also the place to link up your challenge projects!)

I recently had to move my cupboard where I store all my craft stuff cause we got our floors redone.

SOOOO, EVERYTHING had to come out. Funny how much stuff you forget you have

Flashing back to 2004 or so....when everyone I knew HAD to have a paper crimper. I caved. And it sits in my cupboard, lonely, rejected, the once loved tool of the year.

Well for this challenge, I'm BRINGIN' IT BACK. BABY!

THE CHALLENGE: Use your neglected paper crimper OR find some crimped paper to add to your project. Peeling the top layer off some cardboard is a great option

Here's a card I did using my crimper - the paper I crimped is THIS awesome stuff from the store.
http://www.fortheluvofart.com/KraftNatural8.5x11ChipboardCardstock.aspx
It's heavy weight, but not TOO heavy so you can't cut it...I just LOVE it.

Have fun - can't wait to see what you come up with

Friday Member of the Week!

2010-09-24T13:20:00.005-05:00

Happy Friday! Congratulations goes out to this week's member of the week: our Oklahoma gal, Nancola!!

I was amazed and awed by her beautiful vintage layout in the gallery this week! Check it out...

I went over and visited Nancola's blog. Let's just say I was inspired by her beautiful blog design, as well as her beautiful entries. http://justaboutthedetails.com/

If you would love to be featured as Friday member of the week, make sure you upload your creations in our gallery. We love to see, and be inspired by, all your work!!!

O Mojo, Mojo,Wherefore Art Thou Mojo?

2010-09-23T09:12:00.000-05:00

It seems that this time of the year I slip into a funk. And it appears I am not alone as so many conversations have started about missing mojo lately. Maybe it's the transition of summer into fall and schedules getting full with school and activities again. Or maybe it's the longing for cooler weather. Whatever it is, it seems to kidnap my mojo every time. So what do you do to revive your creativity?

I have a list of things I do when I get into a creative funk.
-attempt to reorganize my space. Sometimes going through my stash stirs up the juices.
-browse online galleries and blogs. All it takes is one good piece of inspiration. And if you're new to For the Luv of Art - the gallery here is stocked full of amazing talent. Check it out HERE.
- peruse through scrappy magazines
-create a card. It's quick and gives instant gratification.
-But one thing I found that really gets me moving is a good challenge. It gives me a starting point and an avenue to follow. And it gets me actively playing on the boards.

And there are so many challenge blogs and sketch sites out there that you are bound to find one that suits you. The greatest thing is you have challenges and contests right here at For the Luv of Art!!
We have the Weekly Card Challenges in the Everything Cardmaking forum, Tuesday Challenges in the Challenges Forum and the Monthly Contests in the Contests Forum.
And if you play along - there are usually prizes for the winner.

Check out the current challenges going on:
Weekly Card Challenge - 9/20-9/24 - The more times you play in the month - the higher the chance of winning the RAK at the end of the month!
Tuesday Challenge - 9/21 - Be sure to check this out! Julie Ann also gives a bonus tutorial!
Sept. Contest - Ends 9/27 - Shimmerz contest! If chosen as a winner you can win a $20 gift card to the FTLOA store!

We also have some other fun things being planned out for the month of October that's coming soon! So be sure to play along! Not only will your mojo appreciate the push but we would love to see your participation! Even if some of the challenges are out of your comfort zone - push those limits! That's why they are called CHALLENGES! :)

See you on the boards! :)

Tuesday Challenge with a Tutorial!

2010-09-21T01:21:00.002-05:00

Mixed Media Altered Book by Julie Ann Shahin

Hello Friends! The Tuesday Challenge this week is to create Mixed Media! It's easy actually and you've probably done it and not realized it before. Mixed media means that you use more than one type of material to create your project. An artist combines paint, sprays, ink, ephemera, found objects, etc. If using paint, and sprays, each layer must dry for integrity before the next layer is added. I use a heat gun because I am impatient! :)

Examples of Mixed Media include ATC's, altered items such as the altered book I am working on above, assemblage art, collage, and digital mixed media. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mixed_media) . Here are three books that I've added to my personal library that I can recommend as excellent references on mixed media:

Let me show you how I created this altered book page above.....

MIXED MEDIA TUTORIAL

Step One

Step One.
I am using a vintage dictionary. The theme of my altered book has to do with dance, so I turned to the D's and found the word "dance", and I outlined it in light pink as you can see above. I also drew a heart shape in pencil that I will be cutting into the book with my x-acto knife.

Step Two

Step Two
Next I took masking tape, stuck it on my pants to make it less sticky, then put it over the word "dance" to make a mask. There may be other methods to make a mask as well.

Steps Three and Four

Step 3.
I painted "pool blue" stripes across the pages, and then purple stripes across the pages....letting the paint be thin enough that I could still see the text through the paint. I left large areas unpainted.

Step 4.
Next I sprayed almost the whole area with Glimmermist. I used my heat gun to dry the pages.

Painted Page, paint covers masking tape

Step Five

Step Five.
I carefully and gently removed the masking tape from the page.

Step Six

Step Six.
Using an X-acto Knife, I carefully cut along the pencil lines the heart shape, into the book creating a niche.

Step Seven

Step Seven.

Adhere vintage book illustrations with Regular Gel (Matte) by Golden. Apply the gel first to the page, then lay the illustration down, and brush the gel over the illustration and allow to dry. It will dry clear. You can read more about the use of gel mediums at the Golden website.

Step Eight

Step Eight.
I stamped music notes using Stayz-On ink onto the page. I used my personal favorite stamps designed by Norma, which happen to be called For The Love of Art "My Favorite Things" Stamp Set. Notice that I let it be messy and free. Mixed media is an art form that allows for a looser and free expression of self, in my opinion.

My Favorite Things Stamp Set

Step Nine

Step Nine.
Now that my ephemera has dried, I want it to blend into my page. I have mixed a tiny bit of my paint with some Regular Gel (Semi-Gloss). By mixing the paint into the Gel medium, it will become transparent, and thus my image will show underneath the paint. You can see above as pointed out by the arrows where I painted over the book illustrations and the paint/gel combination remained transparent.

Step Ten

Step Ten.
I backed the bottom layer of the heart with vintage wallpaper, and adhered a gold foil heart border. Then I adhered a ballerina ornament. I will need to adhere all the layers of pages together with watered down PVA glue, I have yet to do that.

I finished it off with trims and embellishments and some journaling! You can see what my cover looks like in the FTLOA gallery right here, which I had made about a year ago.

I hope you enjoyed my tutorial, and are feeling inspired to explore mixed media! I had fun and I know you will too!!! Please share your projects in the For the Luv of Art Gallery!

Here are some more resources for getting started:

Collaged Board Page Tutorial by

xoxo,
julie ann shahin

Friday Member of the Week!

2010-09-17T06:00:00.001-05:00

Today I am beyond excited to share our Member of the Week!

Katie Berberich is a FABULOUS designer from the Netherlands.

She is a very talented card artist,

photographer,

and a complete delight to have on our forums!

Congratulations Katie!

Thank you so much for being a part of our

community and I look forward to seeing more

of your great work!!

For The Luv of Art

An Introduction.....

It's the "I {Heart} Pinterest Crop!

Pinterest Crop!

Glitz in the store!

It's World Card Making Day!!!

Let's do the Twist!

"We Are Family" Crop...

Labor Day Inspiration

Labor Day Sale

Announcing More Super-Awesome Stuff

TC World Traveler

Need some inspiration?

More new product has just arrived!

MME Lost & Found 2 with a coupon!

We're halfway there!

It's Card-A-Palooza baby!!!

Layout with no photo???

Are you ready for this? It's Card-a-Palooza!

This week's challenge

Back to the Basics Challenge

It's Game Time!!!

Join Us For National Sprapbook Day

Come Join Us!!!!

Thursday Challenge - 5/5/2011

Thursday Sketch Challenge

Welcome To Our Blog Hop Featuring Pink Paislee

It's All About The Circles!

Pink Paislee Inspiration Coming Soon

Scrap Your Childhood Pics!

3/31 Thursday Challenge Something Hybrid :)

3/24 Spring Challenge

3/17 **Ad Inspiration Challenge

3.10.11 Thursday Challenge -- I *heart* St. Patrick's Day

3-3 Challenge .. Pattern Papers Galore!

Thursday Challenge 2.24.11

Thursday Challenge - February 10

Thursday, 2/3 Challenge

Introducing our new HeArt Challenges!

1-27 and 1-20 Thursday Challenges!

Design with Packaging!!!

Tuesday Challenge 12-28

Tuesday Challenge! 12/21

D.I.Y. Make Your Own Christmas Wrapping Paper and Gift Bag

Friday Member of the Week 12-17

Tuesday Challenge - December 14

This Week's Member of the Week!!!

Twin Bows and SRM Stickers

Tuesday Challenge 12/6 - Make An Ornament

Friday Member of the Week - Suzanne (Lousyananut)

New Digital Designs, Christmas Cards, Christmas Albums, Freebies and more !

Mini Recipe Albums

November 26/Member of the Week

MEMBER OF THE WEEK!

Therapy.

Tuesday Challenge - 11/16

Giving Thanks

11/12/10 Member of the Week!!!

Teresa Collins

Buttons and Shapes and Ribbons ... Oh My!

11-05 Friday Member of the Week

Stamping Fun

Weekly Challenge 11/2/10 -- Tiny Greetings

Happy Halloween!!!

10-29 Friday Member of the Week

My Mind's Eye Alphabet Soup

10/25/10 weekly challenge

Friday Member of the Week

Tuesday Challenge

10/15 Member of the Week!!

Feeling the need for Dimension on your projects?

Tuesday Challenge 10/12/10

October Kit Reveal "La Mode"

Mrs. Skull Tutorial - Home Decor Featuring My Mind's Eye Haunted Flocked

I found it totally irresistible. Here's what I made for home decor combining it with a skull shape from Say It With Letters.com., and next my tutorial.

TUTORIAL

Friday Member of the Week!

October Kit Sneak Peeks from the Design Team (updated with Kit Introduction)

Tuesday Challenge!

Halloween Garland Tutorial

3.10.11 Thursday Challenge -- I heart St. Patrick's Day