I heard it through the grapevine...

I heard it through the grapevine that the Hanna Montana and Spongebob cartridges have started shipping out from Provocraft. Did they really have to send these two out first? Gak.

50 4x6 Prints for $5 @ Walgreen's

You can't scrap 'em if you don't print 'em! Be sure to use coupon code SUMMER5. Click HERE to go there now.

Vinyl

Looking for vinyl? Check out the grand opening special at this new store by clicking HERE.

Layout: Sweet Caitlyn

I have been having some major scrapbook withdrawals lately so as soon as the grandbabies left today I hightailed it to my scrapbook room. This is my Sweet Caitlyn. The poppies, butterfly and title on this layout came from Storybook, what a fun cartridge!

 

Cupcake Cake

So not scrapbook related but I just had to share. Check out this cake pan! A giant cupcake!!! It comes with easy instructions on how to put the two pieces together. You can buy it HERE, HERE or HERE. How sweet is that!!

Where's the BLING?

Apparently Prima released their Build-A-Bauble stamps by IOD last year and I'm even seeing ad's for them in magazines like Scrapbook, Etc but for the life of me I can't find where to buy them. Anyone know?

Graphically Speaking Cheat Sheet

I had a request for a Graphically Speaking Cheat Sheet so here ya go. Download by clicking HERE.

Memorial Day 2009

And I'm proud to be an American,
where at least I know I'm free.
And I won't forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me.
-- Lee Greenwood

Get Organized!

End of the month things to do:

* Turn in any undeveloped rolls of film for processing, upload your digitals for processing, or if you print at home, get it done. Don't let pictures pile up.

* Sort through the embellishments on your workspace. Put like items together, even if they're different colors. Toss scraps of ribbon or fiber too small to work with. File stickers and die cuts away. Clean up those pesky little bits that clutter your workspace.

* Finally, sort and file your papers. Toss those smaller than a half sheet in size or use them now to make up a card.

Cards and Copic's

I have not as of yet got pulled into the Copic craze however this video by Kristina may just do the trick.

No More Burping!

Old news but still a good refresher course.

Home Decor Images

Click on the pictures for a better look-see.

Jubilee Images

Click on the pictures for a better look.

Foundation Key...who knew?

Simply Sweet & Stand And Salute

Here's a few images for the new Cricut cartridges Simply Sweet and Stand & Salute. (Click on the pictures for a better look). I've noticed in the comments below we're seeing alot of thumbs down for Simply Sweet (I agree...looks too much like a few of the other cartridges) and then several comments about the lack of whatever on Stand and Salute so I wanted to remind you guys that this is just the cover shot. Don't forget that for every creative feature that there is, is 50 more images. I can't wait to see what else is on this cartridge and will be doing a cheat sheet as soon as I get all the images. I personally think that it's going to be a "gotta have"! And not just for those wanting military or patriotic shapes, I'm thinking for little boy layouts too!! Yep, a gotta have!

Cricut Ticket Info

Click on the image for better reading.

Two New Cricut Cartridges to be released June 7th

According to Kim over at Cutterscreek, Provocraft is releasing 2 new cartridges. They are called Simply Sweet (font cartridge) and Stand & Salute (military themed shape cartridge). Release date is June 7. Screenshots to come.

***

Comments from the Cricut Message Board:

From HappyScrapperDiane:
I just got an email about some new cartridges that will be coming out July 1 is the day my distributor is reporting. They will be selling Jubilee, Simply Sweet. Stand and Salute and a solutions Home Decor. They will also be offering a promotion that the link is not working yet. I did not think they were releasing the ones that were offered for a special, but according to this email that is not the case. It was a big poster type email, but it is a preorder for me. I am very interested in the Stand and Salute, but would like to see some of the pictures. Just thought I would pass that along so you can be enabled!!!

From Rscowtown1:
the only wee pic i got from my supplier indicates july 1 as release, i can see the American flag on one box, fonts on 2 and the other is solutions.
jubilee, simply sweet, stand and salute and home decor are listed. the pics are less than 1" tall and i cannot copy them.

Slice Update - Worth Reading

Long but worth reading...looks like the Slice just may give Cricut a run for their money.

***

To Our Valued Slice Customers,
The build up and anticipation of the first Slice release has been one for the record books. In our company's nearly 15-year history, no product has been received with as much fanfare - and with as long of as a waiting list - as this one. While we've been thrilled with the initial frenzy, we're also aware that updates are necessary to ensure that the Slice performs consistently at the high levels you've come to expect from Making Memories.

One of the most exciting features about the Slice is the built-in ability to upgrade its performance and function by simply installing a new design-card firmware upgrade. It will be as simple as adding a new ring tone to your cell phone or a new song on your "iPod!"

Many of these upgrades will be provided to registered Slice owners as soon as our product team develops them! If you have a PC and do not already have an SD card reader, then you may consider purchasing one so you can easily download your Slice updates and upgrades from www.whyslice.com as soon as they're available. If you prefer, we'll certainly be able to help you access upgrades through other channels as well, such as through standard mail. As always, our real-person customer service team will be here to help you.

We are immediately offering the following updates:

CUTTING UPDATES

We have created a new calibration program that will help you "tune" your Slice into its ideal operational setting, to ensure your cuts match the images on your screen - even at the smallest sizes. This will eliminate "warps and wobbles" in some of the smaller cuts and sharpen up the image. Our team has created two ways that you will be able to access this new calibration feature:

Basic Shapes 1" Design Cards are now programmed with the new Calibration feature. These cards have shipped to all of our customers who registered their Slice on our www.WhySlice.com web site. If you have registered and have not received your replacement card, please email our customer service team (customerservice@makingmemories) so we can track your order and ensure your replacement arrives.

We also have created a downloadable software update for Slice, complete with the new Calibration feature. Currently, we have enlisted the help of consumers who are representing you as Beta Testers. They are testing the ease and reliability of this online feature. Once we have received their feedback and blessing, we will make this online option available to you, initially for PC's and eventually for Mac's.

JUST CHILLIN'
It has come to our attention that the Owl design on the Just Chillin' card creates an irregular cutting pattern. This shape has been re-programmed, and a downloadable update is being tested by our Beta Test team as we speak. If you would like to have us repair your Just Chillin' card before the online update becomes available or if you don't have access to a PC, please send your Just Chillin' Design Card in a padded envelope. Make sure to contact customer service at customerservice@makingmemories.com prior to sending your card back so they can provide you with the address and shipping details.

If you prefer, you can email us at customerservice@makingmemories.com and we'll send you a postage-paid envelope so you can send in your card for repair. We'll return your updated Just Chillin' Design Card within three business days after receiving your card, so you can get back to enjoying your design cuts.

Here is a sneak-peek of some other offerings that are coming shortly:

COMMUNICATIONS
We just released our first online message board live on www.WhySlice.com. Our dedicated Slice Message Board will keep you posted about the latest software updates, status reports, and best of all, new products that will make your Slice more useful and enjoyable than ever before.

FUTURE RELEASES
Speaking of new products, we have a number of exciting Slice accessories in the works - many of which have been inspired by your emails to us and your discussions on message boards. Among the new tools coming your way in 2009 are:

Drawing Tips: Anything your Slice will cut and emboss, it will also draw!
Image Mirroring: This will allow you to "flip" your image instead of your paper and will also be great for embossing, de-bossing, window-vinyl, quilting appliqué, and more.

Image Shadowing: You will be able to cut the shadow for every new image - Awesome!!

Multi-Cut: If you want to cut the same image multiple times, you will be able to cut up to four in one step!

Slice Speed Boost™: A Speed Updater will help your Slice complete cuts faster than ever before, allowing you more time to create.
Plus, we've got some top-secret functionality in the works that I can't wait to share with you! But I'll have to wait just a bit longer before the "big reveal."

Thank you for being the BEST customers ever! We know everything's not perfect, but we are moving at lightning speed to get there. Our goal is to make the Slice your "cordless drill and iPod" for creativity- compact, convenient, easy to use and FUN, FUN, FUN. With your help combined with Making Memories' great service and fast upgrades . . . we'll get there together!

Slice News and Embossing Announcement

Making Memories Reveals The Shape of Things to Come

No matter how you slice it, Making Memories’ most recent invention is living up to its promise of providing endless possibilities. This season, the artists behind the Slice Cordless Design Cutter are expanding the machine’s capabilities with the release of 12 new design cards, plus first-of-its-kind embossing tips.

“The Slice’s popularity has far exceeded any of our expectations,” explains Making Memories Director of Product Design Gail Pierce-Watne. “From the moment our Cordless Design Cutter hit the market, artists started posting unique applications on blogs, on YouTube, and in stores at a breathtaking pace. Customers are clamoring for yet more designs so they can further unleash their creativity. We’re so delighted to deliver literally thousands of new possibilities to these enthusiastic artists.”

Beginning in Spring 2009, Making Memories will ship design cards to national craft and independent scrapbooking stores in 12 new themes, including:

Wedding
Just Chillin’ Teen (Based on a new Making Memories Program)
Tag Maker (with cut designs that fit into pre-crafted Making Memories tag rims)
Travel USA & Travel International
Spring
Words & Expressions
Calendar
Studio Essentials
Fonts
Sports
Big Kids

In addition, Making Memories is releasing first-of-its-kind embossing tips, which attach where the Slice’s rotating blade normally would appear. The rotating tip enables designers to emboss the many card designs directly onto the paper’s surface, without cutting all the way through. The embossing tips are sold in kits, each containing three different sized tips, plus a 6” x 6” embossing mat.

For more information about Making Memories’ new collection of design cards (MRSP: $39.99) for the Slice Cordless Design Cutter, or to learn more about the company’s new embossing tips (MSRP: $12.99), visit www.whyslice.com.

Girls Crafts Kits

How cute is this! A monthly kit for girls between the ages of 7-12. And afforable too! For more details click HERE.

***

Personal Shopper Girls Cre8 Craft Club

Our newest kit!

Creativity. Education. And quality time with a daughter, niece or granddaughter. Crafting with kids isn’t just fun—it’s the best gift you can give!

Personal Shopper Girls Cre8 Craft Club is designed to inspire, challenge and encourage girls ages 7-12 with top-quality craft kits. While the crafting part is loads of fun, Girls Cre8 also helps kids master things like measuring, reading comprehension, hand-eye coordination and following written instructions. And there’s the benefit of stepping away from the TV, computer, video games and iPod to make something by hand—it’s a huge boost to a girl’s self-esteem!

Each month, she’ll receive a package bursting with supplies and instructions for creating two handmade craft projects, from scrapbook pages and papercrafted gifts to holiday ornaments.

She’ll get a superfun assortment of girl-tested (and approved!) craft supplies, with complete instructions and photos—delivered to her door. The cost each month is just $9.99 plus shipping. You can cancel at any time…but we think you’ll love the creativity, education and special attention this gives to the girl in your life.

(Even better: She’ll get a free 8”x8” scrapbook album just for becoming a member of Girls Cre8 Craft Club! It’s hers to keep, no matter what.)

Come join us—we’d love to have you as part of the Personal Shopper family!

Organizing Tips

Need to get organized? Take a few tips from the Paper Wishes design team on how to stash your stuff—and still be able to find it!

Embellishment storage: I keep my embellishments in plastic containers with individual compartments. I’ve added labels to the ends of the containers so I can see on the shelf which container has which embellishments. —Laura

Template storage: I keep all my templates in a 3-ring binder—this way they’re easy to find, organized, and don’t get bent or damaged. —Susan

Another template storage option: When storing templates, keep them from bowing by hanging them from the punched hole at the top. I put mine on a binding ring to keep them all together and it makes a great hanger. —LeNae

Stamp storage: Because my craft room has a lot of natural light, I make sure to store my wood-mounted stamps with the rubber side away from the window, as sunlight can really damage them. I also keep my clear acrylic stamps in a covered container, away from the sunlight. And because my tiny craft room is also the laundry room, I make sure to keep the door open when the dryer is running so it doesn’t get too warm—extreme heat and cold can also damage stamps. —Sara

Tool storage: I keep a piece of pegboard on the wall next to my worktable to hang supplies. You can pick up pegboard at any home or garden center, and you can even spray paint it a fun coordinating color or the same color as your crafting space wall. It’s great for hanging spools of ribbon, templates, stamp packages and tools. —LeNae

Paper storage: I keep my cardstock organized by color schemes in vertical paper storage containers. This makes it easy to see what I have and easy to pull out what I need. —Laura

Copied from http://www.paperwishes.com/articles/id/69290/

Cutting Fabric with your Cricut

Click HERE for a bunch of good info on cutting fabric with your Cricut. You'll need this stuff.

TGIF

It's Friday Ya'll! Have a great weekend!!

I'm getting Miffed!

Registration for the Summer CHA 2009 (Craft and Hobby Association Summer Convention and Trade Show) has opened. No, I'm not miffed at CHA. I'm miffed because ProvoCraft will be introducing new product releases at Summer CHA 2009.

Now why would that miff me? BECAUSE THE STUFF THAT WAS RELEASED AT WINTER CHA STILL HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED!!!!

What is the deal with that?? When are we going to see these cartridges on the store shelves?? Where is A Child's Year or Ashlyn's Alphabet or European Decor or Stamping Solutions or Kitchen & Bath Decor or Sponge Bob (gag me...sorry) or Hanna Montana (rolling my eyes...sorry)?

I know. Yes. I do realize that they told us before hand that these cartridges wouldn't be released until somewhere around 'April - June' but stinkin' jeepers!! Why even tell us about them??

How wonderful is this!

Great impromptu piano duet by a 90-year-old couple in the Mayo Clinic lobby.

QVC.com

Creating Keepsakes Magazine - Paper Crafting
Thu 5/7/2009
5 PM - 6 PM ET

Preserve your memories with archival quality scrapbooks and accessories brought to us by author, entrepreneur and founding editor of Creating Keepsakes scrapbooking magazine, Lisa Bearnson. Tune in as Lisa brings us inventive ideas from some of the leading manufacturers in the industry for creating unusual scrapbooks and memory albums that you'll cherish for years to come.

KFC Coupon

This has absolutely nothing to do with scrapbooking but I thought I'd share anyway. Click HERE, print and have lunch on me...ok, have lunch on KFC...regardless, it's free just be sure to redeem before May 19th.

Cricut Rewards

Hmmm, Provocraft is trying to save-face big time! What 'cha think.