In Any CASE...with Melinda & Melissa

Join us twice a month as we CASE, “Copy And Selectively Edit”, artwork created by the Art Department of Close To My Heart as showcased in the current Idea Books and our Make It From Your Heart How-To Books.

On the 2^nd and 4^th Thursday of each month, at 7 pm CST, we will direct you towards a piece of art and recreate it using the exact products or others that compliment its initial design. Tips, techniques and assembly directions will be shared in detail to help you recreate them on your own.

As you reproduce the items we have shared, post them on social media using the hashtag #ctmhinanycase. We will randomly search that hashtag and reward those who CASE our items. Winners will be announced on our blogs so be sure to follow us!

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Today I am showcasing this perfect card that was pretty quick and simple to create! I did have to make some adjustments, based on what papers I had available, but that's what CASEing is all about, right?! Copying and Selectively Editing?! That's exactly what I did!

I really found this card super simple to make that I think I will consider making a few more! They are totally fun AND that sentiment... Can you think of some people to whom it applies? I can!

A few things I switched out:

* I used a piece of striped (discontinued) Vellum Paper since it appears I am out of our regular vellum. Sounds like it's time to reorder! When you stamp on Vellum use our Archival Black Ink Pad. It's' the one that will dry completely and your images will never smear.

* I was unable to use the exact Zip Strips used in the original artwork. Just two strips of ANY paper, measuring 1/2" x 4 1/4", are perfect for this card!

This is the stamp set I used which comes with the Thin Cuts - Documented. No fussy-cutting for me! That definitely saved some time!

Details:

• The vellum measures 2 1/2" x 4 1/4".
• The bottom Zip Strip is placed 1 1/4" from the bottom of the card. 
• BEFORE placing the other "strip" (of cardstock), glue down the vellum paper flush to the grey piece so it helps hold it in place. Doing so allows a 1 1/4" margin at the top. 

These are what the images looked like just after using the Thin Cuts and Cuttlebug:

This was after I "roughly" applied some color with Watercolor Pencils (we have new ones coming out September 1st!):

And the finished flowers...after applying some color with the Waterbrush Pen:

Aren't they fun?! And I didn't have to be "artsy" to generate this look! Gotta love that!

It's time for you to head over to Melinda's Blog where she is showcasing the bookmarks shown in this image!

We appreciate you tuning in each week and look forward to seeing you again on the 26th! We love to read your comments AND better yet, we give away prizes when you follow our CASEing and tag us on your social media sites - #ctmhinanycase! Let us know when you create something fun!

Have an awesome day!

In Any Case...with Melinda & Melissa

I'm thrilled to have you here for this evening's episode of...

Join us twice a month as we CASE, “Copy And Selectively Edit”, artwork created by the Art Department of Close To My Heart as showcased in the current Idea Books and our Make It From Your Heart How-To Books.

On the 2^nd and 4^th Thursday of each month, at 7 pm CST, we will direct you towards a piece of art and recreate it using the exact products or others that compliment its initial design. Tips, techniques and assembly directions will be shared in detail to help you recreate them on your own.

As you reproduce the items we have shared, post them on social media using the hashtag #ctmhinanycase. We will randomly search that hashtag and reward those who CASE our items. Winners will be announced on our blogs so be sure to follow us!

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If you haven't already heard (or seen), we have a new Seasonal Expressions Idea Book that was released on May 1st. This is the cover of that beauty with plenty of new products and artwork samples showcased inside. While I've already identified quite a few must-haves, I decided to highlight a NEW Thin Cut that is completely fun! (If you would like to view the contents of the Idea Book, virtually, you can click here. Want a hard copy to physically flip through the pages? It is included FREE with every order placed on my website or you can contact me directly if you want me to mail you one.)

Don't forget, my partner in CASEing is Melinda Everitt and she has a fun product to share with you as well. Be sure to read to the bottom of this post and then follow the link.

First of all, doesn't this image just make you happy? I love the beautiful colors and fun favors perfect for birthdays or other celebrations. Today I am CASEing the image used as a decor' item, the "It's Your Day" frame (arrow is pointing to it), in this image. 

Let's first examine the Thin Cut I used called, "It's Your Day". It measures 3 3/4" x 5", also perfect for placing on a card front as I did with my creation. It is a thin metal die that cut easily using a Cuttlebug. To get the look of the artwork sample, I took it through the diecut machine four times:

• Espresso Cardstock - base (I used it rather than Black)
• White Daisy Cardstock - letters and apostrophe
• Tangerine Cardstock - flame
• Beautiful Friendship Paper Packet - candles (polka dot pattern)

Then, I trimmed the needed pieces, in the respective paper, and glued them on top of the main frame as intended. This is called paper-piecing. 

To adhere the pieces easily, I used the Bonding Memories Glue Pen. It has a small tip that is perfect for small pieces. 

Here's a closeup so you can better see the detail.

I totally love how it came out and have already created another sample with this Thin Cut. In fact, there is a similar one that says, "A Big Thank You". It can be used in a similar way so be sure to check it out.

Now it's time to check out the wonderful card that Melinda is highlighting. It is the one in the middle of this image. Isn't it beautiful? When you head to her blog, she'll share information on how she recreated it and you'll want to be sure to head over there by clicking this link.

Thank you so much for stopping by! We'll be back in two weeks for the next CASE! See you then!

In Any CASE...with Melinda & Melissa

Join us twice a month as we CASE, “Copy And Selectively Edit”, artwork created by the Art Department of Close To My Heart as showcased in the current Idea Books and our Make It From Your Heart How-To Books.

On the 2^nd and 4^th Thursday of each month, at 7 pm CST, we will direct you towards a piece of art and recreate it using the exact products or others that compliment its initial design. Tips, techniques and assembly directions will be shared in detail to help you recreate them on your own.

As you reproduce the items we have shared, post them on social media using the hashtag #ctmhinanycase. We will randomly search that hashtag and reward those who CASE our items. Winners will be announced on our blogs so be sure to follow us!

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Today I am highlighting this fun treat bag from page 33 of the Seasonal Expressions 1 Idea Book, as shown here. One of the things that attracted me to papercrafting many moons ago (about 22 years) was the ability to create fun and inexpensive goodies for my students, co-workers, friends and family members. It's THAT which has kept me on this fun journey that brings me a lot of joy!

I also used one of the Thin Cuts, Basic Tags, that is on sale this month. You can save up to 30% on some of the packages through this month, while supplies last. It's a DIE-NAMITE SALE! Click this link to go find out the details!

While I took the above photo as a source of inspiration, I decided to change it up a bit (partly because I have no idea what I did with the stamp set used in the artwork created by the CTMH Art Department LOL).

This High Five stamp set, along with the Stargazer paper pack and coordinating embellishments, was used to quickly create this fun goodie.

Details are provided in this video, including dimensions. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Supplies used:

• G1147 Stargazer Workshops Your Way Scrapbooking Kit (includes ribbon and Dots)
• C1711 High Five
• Z2843 Canary Ink Pad
• Z2848 Sapphire Ink Pad
• Z3344 Thin Cuts - Basic Tags (used for both creations)
• 1772 Glue Dots (used for both creations)
• Z3372 Adhesive Runner (used for both creations)

Because I couldn't pass up the pastel M&Ms, perfect for this time of the year, I decided to alter it a bit for an Easter treat! This was created using the Gimme Some Sugar product line and a sentiment from the Easter Animals stamp set (shown below). It's cute, huh?

Supplies used:

• X7228B Gimme Some Sugar Paper Packet
• Z4145 Light Grey Ribbon
• Z2805 Black Ink Pad

Melinda is highlighting our Gift Card Box Thin Cut, which is on sale this month. Be sure to head over to her blog to see her box and processes for creating.

And don't forget to get on the CASE with us, following our lead by using Close To My Heart artwork as a source of inspiration. When you do, post it on social media with the hashtag #ctmhinanycase. We're always looking for some participants and who knows? You may just win a prize!

Wishing you a great end to your week and a weekend of creativity, if you so choose!

In Any CASE...with Melinda & Melissa

Join us twice a month as we CASE, “Copy And Selectively Edit”, artwork created by the Art Department of Close To My Heart as showcased in the current Idea Books and our Make It From Your Heart How-To Books.

On the 2^nd and 4^th Thursday of each month, at 7 pm CST, we will direct you towards a piece of art and recreate it using the exact products or others that compliment its initial design. Tips, techniques and assembly directions will be shared in detail to help you recreate them on your own.

As you reproduce the items we have shared, post them on social media using the hashtag #ctmhinanycase. We will randomly search that hashtag and reward those who CASE our items. Winners will be announced on our blogs so be sure to follow us!

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This week, I am highlighting this card showcased on page 38 of the Seasonal Expressions 1 Idea Book. If you do not have a hard copy of the book - which I guarantee you will enjoy - you can place an order on my website or contact me directly to obtain one. The products are available through the end of April, as long as supplies last. You can view the online Idea Book through the link.

My partner in CASEing, Melinda, is highlighting a fun technique on her blog. More details are provided below so be sure to stop by her blog when you are finished here. 

I love, that with stamps and inks, you can create any background of your choice - any design and any color scheme. That is what was done on this card, making your possibilities endless. While I tend to stay away from masculine artwork, for no specific reason, I am totally loving the Stargazer product line. And the stamp set is super fun!

The rocket ship was stamped on the main cardstock piece in Pebble Ink. Tip: I should have instead used Linen, or second-generation stamping, for a more subtle pattern as seen in the original card.

To assist you in CASEing this card sketch or a similar design of your own, here are the dimensions I used to create my card.

Supplies:

X7229B Stargazer Paper Packet

X7229D Stargazer Coordinating Cardstock

Z4143 Stargazer Dots

Z4145 Light Grey Ribbon

Z4157 Stargazer Cardmaking Stamp + Thin Cuts

Thank you so much for stopping by my blog today. Take a moment to check out my partner in CASEing, Melinda's Blog. She is highlighting the bottom card shown in this visual, with the bird, which includes multi-level stamping. You'll want to be sure to check it out

In Any CASE...with Melinda & Melissa

Join us twice a month as we CASE, “Copy And Selectively Edit”, artwork created by the Art Department of Close To My Heart as showcased in the current Idea Books and our Make It From Your Heart How-To Books.

On the 2^nd and 4^th Thursday of each month, at 7 pm CST, we will direct you towards a piece of art and recreate it using the exact products or others that compliment its initial design. Tips, techniques and assembly directions will be shared in detail to help you recreate them on your own.

As you reproduce the items we have shared, post them on social media using the hashtag #ctmhinanycase. We will randomly search that hashtag and reward those who CASE our items. Winners will be announced on our blogs so be sure to follow us!

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For this episode of "In Any CASE", I am copying this "Sending you prayers" card on the right. It incorporates a super fun technique using our Rose Embossing Folder and I can't wait to show you how it's done! 

This card is showcased in the current Annual Inspirations Idea Book on page 99. You can view the digital version online. If you want a copy of our current idea book(s), the other which Melinda is highlighting this week, you can place an order on my website or contact me directly.

Melinda is showcasing a beautiful card from the Seasonal Expressions Idea Book. I'll share more about that below. 

There were a few things I selectively edited on this card, including the sentiment. I love and appreciate the result of the layered stamp images that make my artwork look artsy, with minimal effort.

You might be wondering how I achieved that background image, using an embossing folder. It doesn't look embossed...it's not! Watch this brief but informative video on what I did to achieve this desired effect. It's super easy and fun, adding more value to your embossing folders!

So what do you think? Easy to duplicate? You bet! I hope you'll give it a try!

For your convenience in using this card pattern, I have provided a sketch based on my CASEing the artwork from Close To My Heart.

Products used:

• Z3384 Beautiful You Stamp + Thin Cuts
• B1536 All the Thanks (CTMH used B1563 Sending Prayers)
• Z3343 Rose Embossing Folder
• Z3370 White Pearls
• Z726 Sponge Dauber
• Cardstock: X5954 Pewter, X5974 Raspberry, 1385 White Daisy
• Inks: Z2810 Blossom, Z2812 Raspberry, Z2850 Fern, Z3835 New England Ivy, Z2848 Sapphire

Because some of the products I used are on sale this month for the "Pretty in Pink" special, I have highlighted them for your convenience. You can get them at 25% off (or more)! Click on the link for details.

Be sure to check out my partner in CASEing, Melinda's Blog, for details on how to create the beautiful "thanks" card shown on the left in this image. You're sure to be inspired by her artwork.

Tune in again, on February 22nd, for the next episode and be sure to CASE one/all of the artwork we highlight and tag it #ctmhinanycase on social media. We'll come looking for you and you may be a prize winner! 

Wishing you a great end to your week and a wonderful weekend! 

In Any CASE...with Melinda and Melissa

Join us twice a month as we CASE, “Copy And Selectively Edit”, artwork created by the Art Department of Close To My Heart as showcased in the current Idea Books and our Make It From Your Heart How-To Books.

On the 2^nd and 4^th Thursday of each month, at 7 pm CST, we will direct you towards a piece of art and recreate it using the exact products or others that compliment its initial design. Tips, techniques and assembly directions will be shared in detail to help you recreate them on your own.

As you reproduce the items we have shared, post them on social media using the hashtag #ctmhinanycase. We will randomly search that hashtag and reward those who CASE our items. Winners will be announced on our blogs so be sure to follow us!

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This week I am creating the "This Girl Can" card featured on page 58 of the BRAND NEW Seasonal Expressions Idea Book. (You can view it online, receive one FREE when you place an order, or contact me to mail you a copy.) Melinda will be sharing "Boy Wonder" with you.

The card was made with this "Super Girl" stamp set. Isn't it SUPER fun?! The Thin Cuts (pictured on the magnetic mat) make is really easy to get a diecut image that eliminates fussy-cutting for some images. I can envision other cards made with this stamp set and can't wait to do so real soon.

I had a blast recreating this card. Each element contributed to a happy card and the Super Girl...for real! ADORABLE! 

It's fun that two paper lines were used on this design, Chelsea Gardens and Stargazer. Who would have thought they would come together as well as they did?

I colored in the image with our Watercolor Paints and love that I get automatic shading since I have limited artistic abilities. LOL

VIDEO
Sit back, relax, and check out this video that shows you how I assembled this card.

I hope the video gives you some insight so you can create a similar card to share with us! We love seeing what you create and will be searching #ctmhinanycase soon. Use the card sketch or sample card to create something of your own. JOIN THE FUN!

Here is a digital sketch representative of the dimensions of this 5 1/2" x 4 1/4" card, reducing the need for much thought. #ctmhinanycase

Supply List:

• B1582 Super Girl Stamp + Thin Cuts
• X7229C Stargazer Complements
• Z4143 Stargazer Dots
• Z3216 White Twine
• Z3132 Watercolor Paints
• Z3224 Waterbrush - Small Round
• Z2060 Thin 3-D Foam Tape
• X7230B Gardens Paper Pack
• X7229B Stargazer Paper Pack
• Z1836 Non-stick Micro-tip Scissors
• Z1279 VersaMat
• Z3372 Adhesive Runner
• Z1204 Bone Folder

Be sure to visit Melinda's Blog to see what she has CASEd. See you again on January 25, 2018 for the next episode of "In Any CASE..."!