The Shaker Box Blog

GREAT NEWS!!!!!

2010-08-13T22:31:00.000-04:00

Great news to all of our past customers and friends...The Shaker Box will be re-opening it's website/store and will cater to the frugal scrapbook and stamping shopper. We will have a grand re-opening celebration scheduled for Saturday, October 2, 2010. Be sure to follow our blog for future details. Please let your friends know about the exciting news and I can't wait to see everyone and meet some new friends as well. It's going to be a scrapping good time!

Hugs,
Linda

The Current and past DT Designers at The Shaker Box

2009-12-04T11:09:00.015-05:00

I would like to take a moment and thank all of the wonderfully talented ladies that were part of The Shaker Box Design Team this past year. These ladies rocked the scrap kits and card kits. I am so lucky to have had them work with the kits!
Thank you ladies!
Hugs,
Linda

DESIGN TEAM COORDINATOR: LESLIE MOZAK
March 09 - May 09 & October 09 - December 09
Guest Scrapkit Designer - June 09

Hey ladies….as most of you know, my name is Leslie Mozak and I am addicted to this pastime that we know as scrapbooking.
I have been married to my high school sweetheart for almost seventeen years and am “mom” to an almost 13 year old daughter and a ten year old son (which definitely makes life interesting).
I have always loved being artistic and when I moved to a new town seven years ago, I decided it was time to try something new…..enter scrapbooking. This hobby allows me to get some of my creativity out and, at the same time, document aspects of my family’s everyday life. I am definitely not a simple scrapper. Even when doing “white space” pages, I find ways to cluster tons of embellies to make my page mine! Oh, and I truly am addicted to flowers!
Anyways, I am so thankful to Linda for giving me the opportunity to play with her wonderful kits and I hope that my scrapwork inspires you to try something new!
Happy scrapping!

DECEMBER 09 GUEST SCRAPKIT DESIGNER:LAURA GILHULY

Hi! I'm Laura! I am a thirty something, happily married to a fabulous guy that is really supportive of my hobby. We celebrate our tenth wedding anniversary in August! Together we have two amazing, energetic, and wonderful boys that keep me on my toes! My life revolves around my family as does my scrapbooking. I started scrapping a few years ago, and I am truly addicted. I get to satisfy my creative side, have some much needed 'me' time, and record my family memories...there is nothing better than that! I love that scrapbooking fills so many parts of me.

CARD KIT DESIGN COORDINATOR: BRENDA DERBIN
December 08 - December 09

Hi! My Name is Brenda and I live in Northeast Ohio with my husband Ric and our three children... Logan 15, Lyric 11 and Lyssa 6. I have been scrapbooking since my son Lyric was born. A few years later I became addicted to stamping and card making. More cards roll out of my scrap studio than layout's these days. I have been designing cards for Linda's Card Kits since December and was thrilled when she asked me to be a guest project designer for March 09. I had fun creating the Princess Album for that month's special project.

DECEMBER 09 GUEST CARD KIT DESIGNER: Ria van Son

My name is Ria van Son and I live in the Netherlands. I share my life with Erwin for more then 25 years. I love to create cards and because I am SAHM to Seven, our 2 1/2year old English Cocker spaniel, I have plenty of time to play with my stamps and papers. I really love creating cards with cute stamps. I have a very active blog www.dragonmagic.nl/blog because I love to play at the challenge blogs.

NOVEMBER 09 SCRAPKIT GUEST DESIGNER: JENNIFER FRENCH
Design Team Coordinator: July - September 09

Hello! My name is Jennifer French. I live in SW Michigan with my 5 year old daughter, our 3 dogs and 2 cats. I started scrapbooking about 4 years ago, but became a complete addict when I discovered the online world 3 years ago. My daughter is the subject for most of my layouts, but I have been known to pull over and take a picture because it inspired me for a layout. When I am not scrapping, I am a full time substitute teacher. I absolutley love teaching and hope to have my own classroom soon. I am so excited to be designing for The Shaker Box!

NOVEMBER 09 GUEST CARD KIT DESIGNER: MARCIE MORGAN

Hi! My name is Marcie Morgan and I am a SAHM to three great kids ranging in ages from nine to sixteen. I have been married to my husband for ten years and we live in an older historical home in a small town in central Illinois. We also share our home with six cats and two dogs, and yes they all stay inside! Let's just say that I like to stay busy! I grew up not far from where I live now and have always been a country girl. I love the outdoors and country life.

I have been scrapbooking/paper crafting for about ten years and started out with the idea to do a simple baby book for my daughter, and have been obsessed ever since! I love to think outside the box and am always trying new things and new techniques! I have had the honor of being published numerous online and paper magazines, as well as serving on several design teams.

PAST SCRAPKIT GUEST DESIGNERS:

October 09 : Lisa Marie Mettman
September 09: Calia Yang

August 09: Mindy Gibson

July 09: Diane Pais

June 09: Leslie Mozak

May 09: Ellen Sosnoski

April 09: Mindy Gibson

March 09: Karrie Cook

PAST CARD KIT DESIGNERS:

October 09: Brenda Derbin and Jill Byler

September 09: Brenda Derbin and Linda Wiencek

August 09: Brenda Derbin and Linda Wiencek

July 09: Brenda Derbin and Linda Wiencek

June 09: Brenda Derbin, Jill Byler, and Linda Wiencek

May 09: Brenda Derbin, Jill Byler, and Margo Koroknay

April 09: Brenda Derbin, Jill Byler, and Amy Duff

March 09: Brenda Derbin, Jill Byler, and Linda Wiencek

February 09: Brenda Derbin, Jill Byler, and Amy Duff

January 09: Brenda Derbin, Jill Byler, and Amy Duff

Past Project Designers:

May: Cristal Hobbs (Pinky)- altered Maya Road house
April: Vicki Flitchum - altered chipboard tree album
March: Brenda Derbin - altered clear princess crown album

2009-04-08T18:59:00.003-04:00

April Guest Designers!!!

2009-04-08T17:35:00.005-04:00

Introducing our Guest DT for April...

April Guest Kit Club Designer: Mindy Gibson

I’m a Kentucky girl who has been married for over 25 years to a wonderful man. I was introduced to scrapbooking in 2004 as a simple hobby. Now it has become a passion! There are days when I barricade myself in my scraproom for hours. I love creating layouts for my nieces and nephew, making at least one album a year for each. Recently I started using this hobby to earn some extra money, creating personalized albums to order, altered items and more. I would define myself as a “clean and simple” scrapper but I always like to try something new. Currently I am focusing on improving my stamping techniques and am starting to create more cards.

Here's a sample of Mindy's Artwork:

April Guest Project Designer: Vicki Flinchum

I'm Vicki Flinchum. I'm a 45 year old Stay At Home Mom. I live in Central Texas with my husband of 7 years and our kids, a son, 5, and step daughter, 10. I retired from 17 years of government service to stay home and raise my children. I have been involved in arts and crafts since I was a child. More recently I owned a faux painting and home décor business and an online scrapbook store. I became involved in scrapbooking about three and a half years ago and was hooked. I love making altered projects and mini albums. I teach classes on a variety of topics from basic scrapbooking to complex technique heavy altered projects. I also teach students to use tools like Purple Cows Trimmers and Zutter Bind It All and DreamKuts. I host an annual crop for my daughter's Girl Scout troop. I love teaching people (young and old) to scrap, alter and create. I lost my Mom a few years ago and inherited a box of unmarked photos to chronicle my childhood. I think scrapbooking is important to preserve memories for future generations, something I wish my mother would have thought important too. I get my children involved in scrapping, making books and crafts, in general as often as possible. My DD used my scrappy tools, including my Cricut, to complete her science fair projects! I truly don't think there is anything you can't do with these hobbies. I've made books, altered doors, built clocks and altered furniture...all in the name of crafting and, of course, FUN.

My scrappy style is eclectic, at best! Some days my pages are neat and simple.....others, I throw on everything I can get my hands on. I have a special love of distressed items and ephemera.

Currently, I am on the following design teams:

Zutter Innovative Products
Purple Cows
The Shaker Box (April Project Kit Designer)
Scrapbooks N' Stickers Entourage

I am also a PrimaDonna: a Prima Endorsed Teacher and a Tattered Angels Educator.

Here's Vicki's Family Tree album:

This kit comes complete with step-by-step instructions and will be available in the store on April 15th for 24.99 !

Please check the gallery for larger images and more artwork from these fabulous designers!

HUGE CLEARANCE SALE!!!!

2009-03-27T14:58:00.000-04:00

HUGE CLEARANCE SALE AT THE SHAKER BOX!

Hurry in for the lowest prices and best selection. We have everything (except the subcriptions and the digi items) on sale for 50% off!! This clearance sale is effective today, March 27,2009 through March 31, 2009. Don't miss this sale!No other discounts/coupons will be accepted during this sale. If your shipping charges end up being too high, your paypal account will be credited when your items are ready to ship. Be sure to use coupon code CWNZHA when checking out. Items will begin shipping out on Monday, March 30th. Please pass this along to all of your scrapping and stamping buddies.Thanks and enjoy!

NEW PROJECT KIT DESIGNER and KIT!

2009-03-23T00:28:00.004-04:00

Hi! My Name is Brenda and I live in Northeast Ohio with my husband Ric and our three children... Logan 15, Lyric 11 and Lyssa 6. I have been scrapbooking since my son Lyric was born. A few years later I became addicted to stamping and card making. More cards roll out of my scrap studio than layout's these days. I have been designing cards for Linda's Card Kits since December and was thrilled when she asked me to be a guest designer for March. I had fun creating this Princess Album, I hope you enjoy it!

Princess Album Kit - 24.99

This album comes complete with everything needed to re-create the entire album, along with step by step instructions. These will be avaialble on a first come, first serve basis starting March 30th, 2009. Be sure to check the store then!

2009-03-04T23:51:00.003-05:00

SHAKIN' IT UP AGAIN CROP

2009-03-04T23:44:00.000-05:00

Join us for The Shaker Box "Shakin' It Up Again Crop" and Guest DT call on
Friday March 6th at 6:00 pm EST through Sunday, March 8th Midnight EST.

As part of our grand re-opening celebration, we are hosting a fabulous online weekend crop with something for everyone. Whether you are a paper scrapper, digi/hybrid scrapper, or card maker you are sure to find something that sparks your creativity here. Great prizes and raks throughout the weekend!
We are also looking for a few Guest Designers to work with our monthly scrap, project, and card kits. For more information, please register with our site before the crop if possible at www.theshakerbox.com . The DT call specifics will be announced at the crop on Friday. Check us out, I am sure if nothing else, you'll have fun!
For further information, please contact us at kits@theshakerbox.com

MEET OUR SCRAPKIT DESIGNERS!

2009-02-28T22:19:00.005-05:00

Leslie Mozak - Design Team Coordinator

Hey ladies….as most of you know, my name is Leslie Mozak and I am addicted to this pastime that we know as scrapbooking.
I have been married to my high school sweetheart for almost seventeen years and am “mom” to an almost 13 year old daughter and a ten year old son (which definitely makes life interesting).
I have always loved being artistic and when I moved to a new town seven years ago, I decided it was time to try something new…..enter scrapbooking. This hobby allows me to get some of my creativity out and, at the same time, document aspects of my family’s everyday life. I am definitely not a simple scrapper. Even when doing “white space” pages, I find ways to cluster tons of embellies to make my page mine! Oh, and I truly am addicted to flowers!
Anyways, I am so thankful to Linda for giving me the opportunity to play with her wonderful kits and I hope that my scrapwork inspires you to try something new!
Happy scrapping!

Karrie Cook - March Guest Designer

Karrie Cook lives in Columbus, Ohio with her husband of 20 years, Robert, and their two boys Kemper age 11 and Griffin age 7. Before she was a SAHM, Karrie spent 11 years in the investment industry and owned a home meal assembly store. Karrie began scrapbooking when her first son was born and has enjoyed the progression of scrapbooking and stamping trends over the years. Karrie enjoys dabbling in graphic design, interior design and is a true do-it-yourselfer.

The Shaker Box Forums Are back up!

2009-01-19T11:49:00.002-05:00

It's been awhile , but we are back! Our forums have re-opened and I would love for you to join us for some great challenges, artwork, and friendship. We will be having a Grand Re-opening Crop on March 6, 7, and 8. We will run a guest DT call at that time as well.m Don't miss out on all of the fun! You must be registered to view the forums, so walk - don't run to www.theshakerbox.com and click on community to join us. We can't wait to meet you!
Hugs,
Linda

HAPPY NEW YEAR and SALE!!!!!

2009-01-01T19:07:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year everyone! I don't know about you, but I am looking forward to this new year. I really believe things will become so much better this year with a recovering economy, a hopeful safe return of our soldiers from Iraq, and new opportunites for all. I also know that with growth and change comes sacrifice. In order for me to accomplish the growth necessary to keep up The Shaker Box, I need to get rid of the old before I can introduce the new. In the spirit of the new year, here's a sale.....40% off everything (except digi and recent kits)! Also , as with other sales, I will refund your shipping via paypal if your order is over 50.00 after coupons and before shipping. Please use the coupon code JPVVKM during check-out in order to receive your discount! Sale ends on January 04 at 11:59pm EST.

Hugs,
Linda

ON THE 12TH SHOPPING DAY OF CHRISTMAS, THE SHAKER BOX GAVE TO ME.....

2008-12-17T22:36:00.003-05:00

FREE Thickers (styles vary - my choice) with any order over $10.00 (excludes digi items, subscriptions, and current monthly kits). Just put the word "Thickers" in the comments section when you check out. Only valid on 12/18/2008 from 12:01am EST to 11:59pm EST. This is the final sale for the 12 Shopping Days of Christmas. The Shaker Box will be closed for a holiday break from Saturday, December 20, 2008 through Friday, December 26, 2008. We will re-open on Saturday, December 27, 2008. All orders placed during the holiday break will ship out on Monday-December 29, 2008. Thank you for your business and have a wonderful and blessed holiday!
Hugs,
Linda

ON THE 11TH SHOPPING DAY OF CHRISTMAS, THE SHAKER BOX GAVE TO ME.....

2008-12-16T21:37:00.003-05:00

$10.00 off of orders over $50.00 - excludes digi items, subscriptions, and current monthly kits. Please use coupon code MNC2X4 during your checkout. Offer good only 12/17/2008 from 12:01am EST through 11:59pm EST. Remember all orders over $25.00 will receive free shipping(refunded via paypal).
Hugs,
Linda

ON THE 10TH SHOPPING DAY OF CHRISTMAS, THE SHAKER BOX GAVE TO ME.....

2008-12-16T00:30:00.002-05:00

25% off of all items in the Chipboard category in the store. Please use coupon code XJDAC when checking out . Don't forget that you get free shipping on orders over 25.00 (current kits and subscriptions do not count toward free shipping). Shipping charges on orders over 25.00 will be refunded through paypal. Offer valid on 12/16/2008 from 12:00am EST until 11:59pm EST.
Hugs,Linda

ON THE 9TH SHOPPING DAY OF CHRISTMAS, THE SHAKER BOX GAVE TO ME.....

2008-12-14T21:56:00.002-05:00

40% off of all individual patterned paper. Please use coupon code 8YB5AT when checking out . Don't forget that you get free shipping on orders over 25.00 (current kits and subscriptions do not count toward free shipping). Offer valid on 12/15/2008 from 12:00am EST until 11:59pm EST.
Hugs,
Linda

ON THE 8TH SHOPPING DAY OF CHRISTMAS, THE SHAKER BOX GAVE TO ME.....

2008-12-13T23:40:00.002-05:00

35% off of any one item in the store. Please use coupon code GNXG5 during your checkout to qualify. Offer excludes current kits and digi items. Valid on 12/14/08 only from 12:01 am EST until 11:59 pm EST. Free shipping on orders over $25.00 included with this sale. I will adjust the shipping charges after the sale (refund through paypal). Enjoy!
Hugs,
Linda

ON THE 7TH SHOPPING DAY OF CHRISTMAS, THE SHAKER BOX GAVE TO ME.....

2008-12-12T21:50:00.001-05:00

25% off on all paper collections! Offer good from 12:01am EST until 11:59pm EST on Saturday, December 13, 2008 only. Free shipping on orders over $25.00 (will be refunded after checking out). Don't forget to use coupon code HLLG2U during the check out to get the discount! Happy Holidays!

ON THE 6TH SHOPPING DAY OF CHRISTMAS, THE SHAKER BOX GAVE TO ME.....

2008-12-12T00:22:00.001-05:00

40% off all items in the following categories:

FALL/THANKSGIVING
HALLOWEEN
SCHOOL
Please use coupon code ZTTB54 during the checkout. Happy Shopping!

Hugs,Linda

ON THE 5TH SHOPPING DAY OF CHRISTMAS, THE SHAKER BOX GAVE TO ME.....

2008-12-11T00:13:00.003-05:00

FREE SHIPPING on all orders over $10.00 (US only) This offer is good one day only- Thursday, December 11, 2008 from 12:01 am EST -11:59pm EST. Stay tuned to see what's next!
Hugs,
Linda

ON THE 4TH SHOPPING DAY OF CHRISTMAS THE SHAKER BOX GAVE TO ME...

2008-12-10T00:04:00.002-05:00

20% off all alterables! Get those Holiday mini gift albums, houses, gift card holders, etc. at a great discount and receive free shipping (I will refund the shipping charges after you check out) on orders over 25.00! Run, don't walk to The Shaker Box as there are limited quantities!!! Use coupon code UBYVV at checkout in the comments section.
Hugs,
Linda

ON THE 3RD SHOPPING DAY OF CHRISTMAS THE SHAKER BOX GAVE TO ME....

2008-12-08T23:51:00.004-05:00

A Scrapkit subscription special!!! Sign up for a 6 month subscription and get your 7th month kit FREE- just pay shipping!! You will need to put "free kit" in the comments section when you check out. Would you like to buy a 6 month subscription for someone else? Have the 7th month kit shipped to you! Current subscribers can extend their memberships to take advantage of this offer - just email me at kits@theshakerbox.com and tell me to extend your subscription for the free kit. If the current kit sells out, your subscription will begin the following month. Offer good Tuesday December 9, 2008 only. Happy holiday shopping!
Hugs,
Linda

ON THE 2ND SHOPPING DAY OF CHRISTMAS, THE SHAKER BOX GAVE TO ME...

2008-12-07T21:49:00.002-05:00

25% off of all cricut and cuttlebug items in stock!!! Please use coupon code 6R3B9D at checkout. I will also be refunding shipping on orders over 25.00. Offer good on Monday, December 8, 2008.
Hugs,
Linda

Altered Gift Card Holder by Carole House

2008-12-07T03:13:00.009-05:00

Carole House made this wonderful gift card holder using the Bare Elements gift card holder available at The Shaker Box store - www.theshakerbox.com/store. Thank you Carole for the wonderful job you did. Here's her tutorial:

ALTERED GIFT CARD HOLDER

by CAROLE HOUSE

I created this gift card holder using the Fancy Pants Happy Holidays collection, Stampendous stamps, ribbon, gold cord, black ink pad, markers from Stampin' Up!, small hole punch, liquid adhesive, ice stickles glitter glue, and adhesive runner. First, I measured the front and back of the gift card holder, cut the patterned paper , and then glued it down using adhesive.

I cut a piece of pink paper , wadded it up using my hands, unfolding it and inking the edges with black ink. Then I created two ornaments to hang on the the Happy Holidays tag on the front using some gold cord.

I stamped the images and colored them in using the Stampin' Up! markers. I cut out the ornaments and added the ice stickles glitter glue.

Next, I measured the inside of the gift card holder and the cut out for the gift card. I cut the pink patterned paper and glue it down using adhesive.

After completing the outside cover and the inside of the gift card holder , I added some more patterned paper, ribbon, tree cutouts from one of the sheets of paper, and glued on some chipboard cutouts. It was a very simple project to complete.

I hope you enjoy it!

Carole

LET'S CELEBRATE THE LAST 12 SHOPPING DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

2008-12-06T22:34:00.004-05:00

I know alot of stores are celebrating the 12 days of Christmas. I thought I would do something similar, but not the same. There are approximately 12 shopping days of Christmas left in order to have your purchases shipped with enough time to wrap up your gifts and have them ready for your friends and family. Starting Sunday, December 7, 2008, I will post a daily sale for the remaining 12 shopping days till Christmas. There will be free shipping on all orders over 25.00 - which excludes all of the December kits. If you would like to have multiple items shipped to take advantange of the 12 days of sales, you would go through the check out and in the comments section put "Hold for Sale". When you accumulate over 25.00 in merchandise, your shipping will be reimbursed. Are you ready to shop??? Starting tomorrow use coupon code 2ALL7D to save 20% off of all stamps!

CYBER MONDAY SALE

2008-11-28T12:22:00.004-05:00

CYBER MONDAY SALE - MONDAY DECEMBER 1st

The Shaker Box is having a HUGE sale on Cyber Monday. Use coupon code F56BNQ All store items, except memberships current kits, and gift certificates are on sale for 30% off!!!!!! Now's the time to stock up or send out those Secret Santa gifts! Speaking of Secret Santa and Holiday gifts, if you are sending a gift for at least 20.00 from The Shaker Box, I will ship to your gift recipient for free - complete with gift wrapping and a homemade card. Make sure that you put the ship to address in the comments section when you check out and I will take care of the rest. Happy shopping!!!
Linda :o)

SOLD OUT!!!!!!!

2008-11-21T15:06:00.002-05:00

What a GREAT feeling! The November Shakin' Card Kit and the November Scrapkit have SOLD OUT! The card kits keep growing in popularity and I am trying to keep up with the demand by making more kits! Don't forget to check out our terrific digi add -on kits. They coordinate with our monthly scrapkits! Make sure to check the store at http://www.theshakerbox.com/store and sign up for your memberships - they are limited. The Gallery is now open for artwork done with the sponsor items and kits. Please feel free to post your work done with our fabulous kits. I will also be sharing artwork done with various store product, so stay tuned.
Hugs,
Linda

November 08 Scrapkit- "Thanks For The Memories"

2008-10-30T22:29:00.001-04:00

Here's the newest Scrapkit pic.

2008-10-20T05:55:00.004-04:00

Simple Photo Layout - Do It Digi Wednesday 10/15/08

2008-10-15T18:05:00.004-04:00

Lisa on the Digi Creative Team here with today's Do It Digi Wednesday.

Create a simple layout. Find a picture without a person in it and create that layout with journaling to challenge the reader's thoughts.

Here's my layout.........thanks for looking in advance.

Credit-Cinda right here at The Shaker Box- September 08 Digi Kit:Spring, Summer, FallSpring, Summer, Fall

Make sure you post your layout in the Shakin' Challenges HERE with a link back to the forum HERE.

Do It Digi Challenge for Oct. 8th, 2008

2008-10-13T17:05:00.002-04:00

Ok, you'll have to forgive me! I'm still getting used to using this blog so I'm a little late posting this! This week's challenge is pretty easy.

October is known as Halloween month in my household. But, it's also Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In honor of this, pull out your pink supplies and colors and make a layout using as much of that color as you can. Bonus points if it's a non-girl layout!

Have fun and remember to post in the gallery so we can leave some love for you!

Tip: Title Placement on a Hybrid Layout

2008-10-12T21:28:00.007-04:00

Hi everyone! I wanted to share a technique I use when placing letter stickers on a layout to create a title. I save the used tape from my tape runners and place the letters on the tape. Then I place the title on my layout and pull the tape. It is so easy and it keeps things lined up!

Sunday Sketch 10/12/08

2008-10-12T13:58:00.002-04:00

This weeks sketch comes to us from Julie Bonner who is helping us to scrap throughout the year by providing us a sketch a week.

This is her #40 sketch for the year. Stop by and show her some love and let her know that we are out here scrapping out little hearts out using her inspiration. She can be found at: http://juliebonner.typepad.com/52_sketches_52_weeks/

It's Thursday again!!

2008-10-09T11:31:00.004-04:00

There is a LOT happening over at the Shaker forums! There are weekly challenges, daily challenges, and some BIG plans in the making!!

Be sure to check out the Inspire Me Thursday Challenge for this week!! Go to http://www.theshakerbox.com/bb/viewtopic.php?p=168806#168806

Inspire Me ... ummm Friday!!

2008-10-03T08:55:00.002-04:00

Sorry this is late everyone!! My Internet server was having issues yesterday and although it seemed that I was signed in, I actually wasn't here most of the day! I just HATE when that happens!!

So, for this week, I thought we'd try something different! Go to the Shaker forums and check out our Inspire Me! Challenge for the week!! Here's the link, just so you won't have to look for it... hehe... http://www.theshakerbox.com/bb/viewtopic.php?p=168230#168230

I can't WAIT to see what everyone comes up with! There is inspiration all around, sometimes we just forget to utilize it!

DO IT DIGI WED - JOURNALING BLOCK ON BLURRED PHOTO

2008-10-01T06:00:00.001-04:00

Your challenge this week is to create a journaling block on a blurred area of a photo. Sometimes (this happens to me a lot - LOL), the blurred area is already there on my photo, but sometimes I have a crisp photo with extra areas that are just begging to be blurred and used as a journaling or title block.

I followed a tutorial by Jessica Sprague. Her step-by-step instructions were so easy to follow for Photoshop Elements, but I'm sure the directions could be easily converted to your digital program of choice. Check it out here: JESSICA SPRAGUE TUTORIAL

This is the page that I made following the technique.

Make sure to post your layout in the Shakin' Challenges Gallery HERE and link back to the forum so we make sure we see your creation!

Sunday Sketch - 9/28/08

2008-09-29T00:02:00.001-04:00

This weeks sketch comes to us from Pencil Lines. It is sketch #102 and Christine Middlecamp is the creator. You can check them out at www.pencillines.com.

Be sure to check them out and leave them some Shaker love along with a link to your layout. Link back here so we can leave you some love too!

Converting Black and White Photos

2008-09-28T20:58:00.005-04:00

Have you ever wanted to use some photos on a layout, but couldn't because the colors in the photo didn't go with the colors of the paper and embellishments? Have you ever considered converting your photos to black and white? I did when I created the layout below using the Little Boy Blue Scrapbook Kit from Picture it Made. Although the company is no longer in business, I wanted to share some directions on converting a photo to black and white.

I wanted to use the original photo for this layout, but the original had colors in it that didn't work well with the kit. So I decided to convert it to black and white. This can be done in most editing software programs. I converted mine using Adobe Photoshop Elements 5. Here are the steps below:

Photoshop Elements 5

Open Photoshop Elements.

Click on Edit and Enhance.

Click on File, then open, and choose the photo you want to edit.

Once the photo is opened, click on enhance.

Click on convert to black and white.

Click save as and type a name for your black and white photo.

Then you are ready to print your photo.

Microsoft Word
You can also use Microsoft Word to convert your photo to black and white.
Open Microsoft Word.
Insert your picture through the Insert Menu/Picture/From File.
Select the picture with one click.
Choose the Format Menu.
Select Picture.
Select the Picture Tab.
Choose the color drop down arrow from Image Control.
Select Grayscale.
Click on OK.

Give it a try on your next layout!

Inspire Me Thursday - 9/26/08

2008-09-26T14:16:00.001-04:00

Think about how many "hats" you wear during your week. I know that mine is "mom, wife, driver, cook, problem solver, etc".

My challenge is to you is to let the hat above inspire you to create a layout featuring your many "hats" that you wear during the week.

Have You Ever Tried a Digital Hybrid Layout?

2008-09-21T20:25:00.005-04:00

I created this over the weekend using the September digital add on kit created by Jenn and Linda’s September kit. If you haven’t tried Linda’s kits you just have to. They are packed full of paper and embellishments for several layouts. I started out with a simple digital layout I created in Photoshop Elements 6.0 using the September Add on created by Jenn.

Then I printed it on matte photo paper. I used some cardstock from the September kit, corrugated cardboard, black paint from Making Memories, and my daughter’s trucks to make the tire tracks. After creating the tire tracks I let it dry and then placed the print out of the digital layout on the brown cardstock. Next I placed the elements on the page using adhesive. Embellishments were also used from the September kit. I created the arrow using cardstock from the kit. I also thought the corrugated paper would go well with this. Digital Hybrid Scrapbooking is very easy. You can start with a simple layout and use all kinds of materials to finish it. It is absolutely the best of both worlds!

Challenge: Try creating a digital hybrid layout. You will definitely be surprised at how easy it is.

Sunday Sketch - 9/21/08

2008-09-21T11:15:00.003-04:00

This weeks sketch comes to us from Allison Cope at So Sketchy! You can find her at www.sosketchy.blogspot.com.

Be sure to drop in to tell her "hello" and then link your layouts back so that we can leave you Shaker love!

Inspiration Challenge - 9/18/08

2008-09-18T10:50:00.001-04:00

As I rejoin the real world...I want color, flowers, things that make me happy. No more gray, brown and blah...for me.

This week for my Inspiration Challenge - I am posting an ad from the magazine the gym I belong to sends out. I know that I have summer photos that are waiting to scrap that has all these colors, then I have my roses that I am very grateful that made it thru the storm (I already have a rose-deformed but I have one and its beautiful) that can be represented thru the flowers and the rainbow that gives us hope that it really will be okay and we will find that pot of gold one day if we haven't already.

9/7/08 - Sunday Sketch Challenge

2008-09-07T11:56:00.003-04:00

This sketch is from Julie Bonner @ 52 Sketches. Every week she posts an original sketch and everyone who submits their layout gets put into a drawing for some great prizes!

You can check her out at: http://www.juliebonner.typepad.com/52_sketches_52_weeks/

Link your layouts back to here and then also send her a link to your layout to show your Shaker love.

09/04/08 - Inspire Me Challenge

2008-09-05T14:29:00.000-04:00

I ran across this the other day on http://www.dphotojournal.com/ and I love the way the colors all work together even though they are at different times during the day, how it is a layout from someone who isn't a necessarily a scrapper and how it is something that we see everyday.

How does this inspire you? Is it the colors, the placement of the photos, or the photos in general?

Link your layouts back to here and tell in what way this inspired you and your name will go in the hat for a RAK from me. The drawing will be held on September 10th in the evening.

Blending ~ Do It Digi Challenge 9/3/08

2008-09-03T06:00:00.000-04:00

This week's challenge is to incorporate blending into your layouts. You can focus on blending with your photograph, papers or elements.

In the following page, you will see that I blended my photographs in two separate ways. I've set one photograph to overlay and made it a larger accent for the background, and the smaller photo I converted to black and white and then blended with a blue background paper, using the overlay and color burn options for layers. In addition to that, I blended two background papers in the center to make the colors pop a little bit more. I didn't do it on this particular layout, but sometimes I'll duplicate layers, like the birds and the leaves and then set to overlay to make the colors more vivid.

Experiment with your digi program, and let's see some blending this week. Be sure to post your layout to the Shakin' Challenges Gallery and link back here so we can ooh and aah over your page!

CLICK here FOR layout CREDITS

Sneak Peak at the September Kit - Digital Add On!

2008-09-01T07:54:00.004-04:00

I just finished playing with the digital add on created by Stacey for the September kit and I just had to share what I created! Every month there are 3 digital add ons created by our own designers.

I am fairly new at this hybrid scrapbooking but it is so fun and easy to do! Try one of the digital add ons with your next kit! You can print the patterned paper and paper elements on your printer. Then incorporate it in your next layout, card, or project. If you have any questions please ask in the forum. There are plenty of people willing to share their ideas!
Carole

Sunday Sketch 8/31/08

2008-08-31T11:14:00.003-04:00

This week for our Sunday Sketch - Cheri from Sketches-R-Us has graciously let us use her creations for our inspiration. You can find her at http://sketches-r-us.blogspot.com/. Stop by, check her out and show her some Shaker love!

Here is the sketch of the week:

Make sure to link your photos back to the post on the boards so we can all show you love too!

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK TWENTY-FOUR

2008-08-30T06:00:00.000-04:00

This week's prompt is: REMEMBER WHEN.

Choose a random memory that you have not scrapped about OR start your journaling with "Remember when . . . " or "I remember when . . .."

There are so many memories, you may have a hard time picking one - that's okay - make more than one card if you need to or REMEMBER, these prompts are great for layouts as well!

You can see Emily Falconbridge's card HERE.

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery with a link back to this forum.

Have fun and happy scrapping!

August CREATION of the MONTH!!!

2008-08-28T19:40:00.002-04:00

Congrats to ANGELA for this month's creation of the month!!!!!

Would you like to be honored with winning the CREATION of the MONTH??? Each Monday, we chose a Creation of the Week!!! Then at the end of the month the Design teams vote for Creation of the Month!!!! POST your beautiful creations in the gallery so YOU have a chance!!!!!

Thursday's Inspire Me Challenge 8/28

2008-08-28T13:28:00.004-04:00

Do you need a little inspiration?? Come join us for Thursday's Inspire me Challenge! This weeks challenge is brought to us by a wonderfully talented women that goes by BoHo Girl.

This woman is the most amazing photographer ever! Her work is just amazing. I could just read her blog over and over again. I found this photo of hers at her Etsy Shop :

So what do you see? The colors? A change of season, which is just right around the corner? Maybe a black and white photo with color papers? Its up to you. So don't be shy! Come join in the fun and inspiration!

New Digi Add-on Designer

2008-08-18T08:43:00.003-04:00

This month Stacey Sansom premiers her first digi add-on at The Shaker Box!

Two new Digi Add-ons in the store for you!

2008-08-08T20:24:00.004-04:00

Unique digital kits at a great price and they coordinate with The Shaker Box August kit! Perfect for all of you hybrid or bi-scrappers!

Check them out at The Shaker Box!

Exciting Digi Stuff at The Shaker Box!

2008-08-04T09:20:00.004-04:00

We are welcoming two new digital Creative Team members this month - Ella and Christy. Come on over to The Shaker Box and check out their work!

We are also welcoming a new digital Creative Team coordinator! Jenny will be taking over September 1st.

Our hybrid Design Team call is still open - don't be shy!

August Digi Add-ons will be in the store soon!

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK TWENTY-THREE

2008-08-02T01:22:00.001-04:00

This week's prompt is: RIGHT NOW!

I won't be in exactly the same place I am right now . . . and neither are you. What's going on with you RIGHT NOW that you want to remember? Are you having a big life moment (a career change, a house move, a new baby)? Or is your RIGHT NOW filled with all the little things that seem so little right now, but will be big when you look back - IF you remember what they were (and you will, 'cause you're gonna make a card!).

REMEMBER, these prompts are great for layouts as well . . .

You can see Emily Falconbridge's card HERE.

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery with a link back to the forum.

Have fun and happy scrapping!

Digi Happenings at The Shaker Box

2008-07-28T09:56:00.003-04:00

This month the digital creative team has been scrapping using Kris Myer's designs from Plain Digital Wrapper. Check out the layouts in the gallery!

Next month the team will be scrapping using products from She's Full of Scrap at Gotta Pixel!

The Shaker Box digital CT is so much fun because there is a new designer every month, plus the opportunity to work with the kit club's digi add-ons!

There is an open call for The Shaker Box CT going on now - don't hesitate to apply - the team ranges from new digi scrappers to layout goddesses!

Designers - inquire about sponsoring the team for a month in 2009 - it's great advertising!

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK TWENTY-TWO

2008-07-26T14:33:00.000-04:00

This week's prompt is: WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN?

I want to learn to be more proficient with my camera, I want to learn how to manage my time more wisely and I want to learn more about my local history. What about you? What would you like to learn?

You can see Emily Falconbridge's card HERE.

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery with a link back to the forum.

Have fun and happy scrapping!

FILLING TYPE, DO IT DIGI WEDNESDAY 7/23/08

2008-07-23T18:52:00.001-04:00

Hi everyone!

Ready for a new digi challenge?

There are some incredible alphas out there ready to use, but sometimes a layout needs that little punch of something extra. This week, I'm challenging you to use a font "filled" with paper (patterned or solid), something that really coordinates with your photo and the papers and elements you've so carefully chosen to tell your story.

Jessica Sprague has a tutorial HERE, but you can also use a clipping mask if you want to quickly merge the font and paper together without the stroke edge on the paper filled font.

You hybrid gals or traditional scrapbookers can take advantage of this technique as well. Let's see what you can do!

Remember to post your layouts in the Shakin' Challenges Gallery with a link back to this thread so we can leave you some luvin'!

Digi Shakers Creative Team Call

2008-07-21T08:38:00.007-04:00

It's time for a Shaker CT call! We would like to add some new members to the crew here...

Requirements are simple.

Activity on the boards.

2 layouts per month per sponsor product.

Support of the sites designers through optional CT layouts.

Compensation is product from site dig sponsors and designers.

To apply, register in the forums and upload 3 of your creations to the gallery (http://www.theshakerbox.com/gallery/showgallery.php/cat/706/password/)

Email your name and a link to that gallery, along with the following: a link to your best online gallery; sites where you're active; how long have you been digi scrapping & what program you use; list of other CT's you're currently on or have been on to ShakerCT@gmail.com

Feel free to add anything else you think would be relevant.

This call will close on 7/31, however we may choose to extend that deadline.

Thanks and good luck to all who apply!

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK TWENTY-ONE

2008-07-20T00:28:00.000-04:00

This week's prompt is: YOUR REDEEMING QUALITIES/QUALITIES YOU ASPIRE TOWARD.

Yes, you have my full permission to brag on yourself! Share as much as you can fit on the card (remember you can use both sides - LOL).

You can see Emily Falconbridge's card HERE.

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery with a link back to the forum.

Have fun and happy scrapping!

Kit Club Design Team Call

2008-07-15T07:53:00.002-04:00

If you're interested in being a part of our wonderful Kit Club Design Team, here’s your chance. We need one more Design Team member for our Kit Club Team!

Step One: If you don't have an account with us, please go and register at www.theshakerbox.com.

Step Two: Once you have an account, fill up your gallery with your best, original (no direct scraplifts) layouts and projects. A minimum of five layouts/projects must be featured in your portfolio. We are looking for someone to work with our fabulous kits! Pease make sure that at least three of your portfolio uploads showcase actual scrapbooking layouts, (at least 6x6 and with at least one photo).

Step Three: Email a link to your portfolio to carrie@theshakerbox.com by July 31st , 2008 at 9pm PST. You can also email us a link to another gallery of your choice, in addition to the 5 items you upload to TSB. Our panel of judges will view your submissions and let you know if you've been selected.

*All DT/CT members at The Shaker Box are expected to participate in our forum. Chatting, posting challenges and praising other members work on a regular basis is required. Also, meeting the Kit Club deadlines, attending monthy on-line meetings and coming up with newsletter ideas.
In addition, you will have projects to produce with the kit that is provided to you. We have a rotating team, so the requirments vary from month to month. You will either receive a full kit, half kit, or no kit...with discounts to buy in the months you do not get a full kit. (Any specific questions, please email me at carrie@theshakerbox.com)

Good luck everyone!

Winner will be announced on August 5th, 2008. Addition to the team is immediate, assignments start for September.

More inspiration than I've got time for!

2008-07-14T11:22:00.009-04:00

There have been so many great chalenges at The Shaker Box during the New Beginnings crop! Just one more day to get those challenges posted to be eligible to win some of the great prizes.

I think my favorite challenge was the photo swap! Here is the layout that I did for Cheryl (aka gonewiththewind):

Being a mom to boys, it was refreshing to do a girlie layout!

Here is what Cheryl did with the photo that I sent her:

So much fun and inspiration! Head over to The Shaker Box today (you'll find complete credits for these layouts in the gallery).

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK TWENTY

2008-07-12T01:43:00.001-04:00

This week's prompt is: CHANGE.

Arthur Schopenhauer said, "Change alone is eternal, perpetual, immortal." Change is going to happen . . . but it's how we deal with it. So how about you? How do you feel about change? How do you deal with change when it comes? Do you seek out change? Have you made big or little changes in your life recently?

You can see Emily Falconbridge's card HERE.

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery with a link back to the challenge thread in the forum.

Have fun and happy scrapping!

Things are shaking!

2008-07-07T08:10:00.003-04:00

The Shaker Box crop is in full swing and we are having so much fun! The gallery is really shaking! This is just day seven of the crop and we are already on challenge number 19! And that doesn't include our regular weekly challenges! Personally I have completed a magazine scraplift challenge, a flashback challenge (back to the year 2004, when The Shaker Box started), an art challenge, a red, white & blue challenge and a define it challenge.

I am looking forward to checking out Carrie's "Something you would never do" challenge - it's up today!

On Thursday we will be chatting with this month's digital creative team sponsor, Kris Myers (Plain Digital Wrapper). Be sure to join us at 3 pm PST, 4 pm MST, 5 pm CST and 6 pm EST... Kris will be giving away a freebie so you don't want to miss it! I am excited to see what our team creates this month with all of Kris' fabulous designs!

Have a great week!

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK NINETEEN

2008-07-05T01:36:00.002-04:00

This week's prompt is: SURPRISE!

Do you have a good story about being surprised? Do you like surprises? What was your favorite surprise? This can go all the way back into your childhood or can be something current - so long as it is about you.

You can see Emily Falconbridge's card HERE.

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery with a link back to the forum.

Have fun and happy scrapping!

This not enough of a challenge for you? Pop on over and check out our New Beginnings Crop just full of encouragement and inspiration to help you get your memories scrapped!

Wow!

2008-06-30T08:53:00.011-04:00

Can you believe it is the last day of June? It has been such a whirl wind for my family with sports camps, a road trip for a graduation, vacation bible school and family staying with us. I feel like I can catch my breath now! It's been a similar whirl wind at The Shaker Box! Michele is stepping down from running the site to spend more time scrapping and making memories with her beautiful daughter. Linda is taking over the reins and has been busy getting all of our teams reorganized. I can tell you that we are going to be running like a well oiled machine!

Tomorrow kicks off an exciting two week crop where we are celebrating new beginnings! Get ready for games, challenges, chats, prizes and freebies. There will be something for every kind of scrapper - paper - digital - hybrid - just getting started - been scrapping for years...

If you are a digital scrapper like myself (or even a hybrid scrapper), be sure to stop by The Shaker Box online store on July 4th to grab my Celebrate Freebie. Complete a celebration layout with the mini kit, post it in the New Beginnings Crop gallery at The Shaker Box and link it back to my challenge in The Shaker Box forum to a chance to win your choice of one of my kits in The Shaker Box online store!

Here is a sneak peek of my upcoming July kit!

And if that is not enough excitement for you, The Shaker Box will be having calls for Kit DT, Digi CT and Hybrid DT! It's a great time to be a part of The Shaker Box!

DO IT DIGI WEDNESDAY - DROP SHADOWS ON ACRYLIC

2008-06-28T02:48:00.004-04:00

Digital acrylic alphas and elements are HOT right now and Jessica Sprague has a great PSE tutorial for adding drop shadows to those elements.

Here is the link to her tutorial: http://spraguelab.squarespace.com/blog/2008/4/21/photoshop-friday-on-mondayd-dropshadows-on-acrylic-d.html. When you follow the link, you will notice that there is another link in the tutorial to download an acrylic alpha made by Meredith Fenwick. If you don't already have an acrylic alpha or elements, this would be good to grab as it's so cute - and makes it easy to follow along with the tutorial.

So your challenge this week is to create a page using an acrylic alpha or element . . . try out that tutorial on drop shadows, too!

Here are a couple of pages I've done recently using acrylic elements and alphas:

LINK TO THE SHAKER BOX GALLERY FOR LAYOUT CREDITS

LINK TO THE SHAKER BOX GALLERY FOR LAYOUT CREDITS

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK EIGHTEEN

2008-06-28T02:32:00.001-04:00

This week's prompt is: NATURE.

What nature surrounds you that you just love? Is it the type of leaf on the tree outside your window? Is it a flower that just makes you smile? Do you love to see the grass all green and stretching out like a carpet in front of you? These are just a few ideas to get you started . . . but anything that focuses on NATURE will do the trick this week!

You can see Emily Falconbridge's card HERE.

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery with a link back to the forum.

Have fun and happy scrapping!

Inspiration Thursday!

2008-06-26T07:48:00.002-04:00

I was inspired by a card that I bought in a local charity shop! See the original and my example below. I'd love to see what inspiration you get from it, so be sure to post back to The Shaker Box Gallery!

Also, don't miss our big New Beginnings Crop and Sale! There is a sale going on in the Shaker Box Store RIGHT NOW! The crop begins on July 1st and runs until July 15th! You can jump in any time you need a challenge, want to play a game, learn something new! There will be prizes!

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK SEVENTEEN

2008-06-26T00:10:00.003-04:00

Okay, okay, slap my hands already. I should have posted this Saturday morning and I totally forgot. But I'm here now. I'll post Week Eighteen this weekend, and then we'll take a couple of weeks off while the New Beginnings Crop is rockin' and rollin' The Shaker Box!

So here it is . . . this week's prompt is: YOUR BEDROOM.

Your current sleeping space, your childhood room, your perfect teenage hangout . . . document your bedroom. Display a miniature picture, include some journaling in a cute vellum envelope like Emily Falconbridge did about your childhood bedroom, write about your dream space. Let's see your bedroom!

You can see Emily Falconbridge's card HERE.

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery with a link back to the Weekly Challenges Forum thread.

Have fun and happy scrapping!

It's a CROP and a SALE!!!

2008-06-24T17:22:00.002-04:00

The Shaker Box is welcoming our new owner in GRAND, SHAKER fashion.....with a HUGE 2 week crop and a sale in the store!!!!

Come join the fun....we have over 30 challenges planned, as well as games and LOTS of prizes! You won't want to miss the fun!!!!! Stop by and grab your seat at the table today!

Victorian Grunge - Hotel Lakeside

2008-06-23T08:14:00.010-04:00

Here is a peek of the newest digi add-on in The Shaker Box online store!

And look what our resident layout goddess, Cheryl (aka gonewiththewind) did with it!

Thanks Cheryl! You rock!

Inspiration Thursday

2008-06-19T04:46:00.002-04:00

Inspiration is everywhere, but today I found it in my scrap bin! I just hate cutting into a beautiful full piece of 12x12 paper to make a card! So, out came the pre-folded cards and my scrap bin! It is getting rather out of hand, so I am on a mission to make all of my cards from scraps!

Here is one of the cards I made:

I ended up with about 6 this session! Let me see what beautiful cards you can make with just scraps!! Be sure to post them in our gallery!

Oh, and there are lots of exciting things happening over at The Shaker Box. We have a new owner, Linda. There is going to be a big sale in the store, AND a fabulous New Beginnings Crop from July 1st through the 15th...with lots of fun challenges, tutorials, and prizes!

Click on the links above to be transported to the site!!

Two Quick Freebies at The Shaker Box

2008-06-09T06:02:00.007-04:00

First, a Father's Day Starbucks Tumbler Template (photo not included - use your own).

This was created with my Stone Washed mini kit available at The Shaker Box. And the "chain mail" frame from an earlier freebie (found on my freebies blog), inspired by Prince Caspian.

Secondly, a God's Art Quick Page (again, photo not included).

This one was created using my Arts & Crafts mini kit, also at The Shaker Box.

You can pick up both freebies at The Shaker Box. You will need to sign in and "check-out" to download.

While picking up your freebies, don't forget to check out the great digi add-ons to The Shaker Box monthly kit club! Jen has a really cute Farm Fresh kit!

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK SIXTEEN

2008-06-07T06:00:00.000-04:00

This week's prompt is: GET SOMEONE ELSE TO CONTRIBUTE.

Have someone sign your card, give you a little something to put on the card, share an idea for a quote or color scheme . . . this is a great one to get the hubby involved in or the children. It could just be a word someone shared with you this week - I'm not looking to make this hard . . . any little thing will do!

You can see Emily Falconbridge's card HERE.

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery with a link back to this forum.

Have fun and happy scrapping!

Inspire Me Thursday

2008-06-05T16:10:00.003-04:00

Thursday....almost the end of the week! I had a busy day shopping in London, but came across this layout and fell in love with it! So, it is our inspiration piece for today! She has managed to include a lot of items, but the layout is still so clean!!

School's Out for Summer!

2008-06-02T09:38:00.018-04:00

At my house it's the official start of summer vacation! I am excited, but pray for my sanity!

With a new month at The Shaker Box it means a new digital sponsor for our Creative Team! This month we are creating for Rikkiscraps. Our team is quite efficient and the layouts are already rolling in! Here is one of mine:

Rikkiscraps, Left of Center. (I love this paper and frame)! The color swatch was so cute I had to use it too - I just added a little bevel to the circles. Fonts are Dirty Ego and DC Recess. Actions used were Atomic Cupcake Rubon and Traci Murphy's drop shadows.

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK FIFTEEN

2008-05-31T06:00:00.000-04:00

This week's prompt is: YOUR PARENT/PARENTS.

Take one thing about your parents that pops into your head and scrap that on your card this week. My parents divorced when I was young, and I spent some time with my mother and some time with my father. I'm sure there are lots of varied circumstances out there . . . you might be adopted or spent your time in foster care or had to be raised by family members other than your biological parents. So it's who dedicated and spent time investing themselves in your life . . .

You can see Emily Falconbridge's card here.

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery with a link back to this forum.

Have fun and happy scrapping!

What Inspires YOU?

2008-05-29T02:27:00.001-04:00

Normally I would post something that I hope inspires us all, but with my impending move back to the U.S. and a quick holiday...I have come up a bit short this week! So, I was wondering...

WHAT INSPIRES YOU? Post your answers in our forum here:

http://www.theshakerbox.com/bb/viewtopic.php?p=156215#156215

CROPPING PHOTOS AT ANGLES - DO IT DIGI WED 5/28/08

2008-05-28T06:00:00.000-04:00

This week we are going to focus on our photos. The beauty of digi scrapping is that we can do all kinds of photo editing and enhancements. Everyday photos can take on the attributes of extraordinary photography with different techniques, and a really cool way to do that is to crop your photo at an angle.

Here is a great tutorial for taking a regular photo and making it into a cropped photo at an angle: http://spraguelab.squarespace.com/blog/2007/3/11/photoshop-fridayish.html

Here is my original photo that I started with:
And here is my layout with the cropped photo at an angle (which I did by following the above tutorial):
I really feel like the focus of the photo completely changed when I first cropped the photo, but when I cropped it with the angle . . . it just added an additional element of fun.

Let's see what you can do this week with this technique. Traditional paper scrappers could find that this method would be effective with manual turning and cutting of photos as well - so join with us!

Make sure to post your layouts in the Shakin' Challenges Gallery HERE with a link back to the thread in the forum.

Have fun!

Celebrate!

2008-05-26T08:46:00.003-04:00

Happy Memorial Day to all of my American friends!

I want to shout out that my co-coordinator for The Shaker Box Creative Team, Chris Greiser has moved on to the final round in So You Think You Can Design over at Scrap Orchard! We are celebrating at The Shaker Box and cheering her on! I can't wait to check out all of the free kit designs on Friday! Don't forget that digital kits are available at The Shaker Box (including designs by Chris).

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK FOURTEEN

2008-05-24T00:46:00.002-04:00

This week's prompt is: BIRDS.

Birds are showing up in a big way in digital designs . . . let 'em show up on your Deck of Me card for this week. What do the images of birds inspire in you? Do you see the magic of the freedom of flight or the fragileness of a broken wing?

Remember, you can join in at any time . . . if you fall behind (like me), you can do the cards you can and play catch-up later. ALSO, these prompts could very well serve as inspiration for a bigger layout instead of card. So come on, show me whatcha got!

You can check out Emily Falconbridge's card for this week HERE.

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery with a link back to this forum.

Have fun and happy scrapping!

Here we grow again!

2008-05-19T08:13:00.018-04:00

We are out growing our server over at The Shaker Box! Due to that, I need to practice patience with getting a couple of things that I have designed into the store. I am posting a teaser here and then you will have to be patient right along with me! LOL! Hopefully we will make an easy transition to our new server and get the latest digi add-ons in the store shortly.

Have you seen this month's Shaker kit? I know it tempted one of our digi members so much that she ordered a subscription to the club! For me, I can't go back to paper, but I love seeing the coordinating digi mini kits!

Coming soon to The Shaker Box online store:

A quick page freebie using my Arts & Crafts digi add-on from last month (you'll have to add your own picture)!

My Stone Washed digi add-on for this month is my favorite thus far! Just in time for Father's Day!

Here is a layout I recently did with it:

Additional credits include: Turtle Mama template, Atomic Cupcake frayed action, Christine Smith, Nothing Girly (frame, eyelets & string) , DJB Cinda Cursive and Traci Murphy drop shadow actions.

Have a great week and hopefully I'll be back next week telling you to run to the online store at The Shaker Box!

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK THIRTEEN

2008-05-17T06:00:00.005-04:00

This week's prompt is: WHAT'S ON YOUR MIND?

So that could be a lot of things . . . just remember, we're a family friendly site, so don't let all the skeletons out of the closet at one time . . . LOL. But seriously, what's on your mind? Is it politics, with the upcoming election so much in the news? Is it something in your local community that has become important to you? Is it a family member that you're often thinking about? Is it something that you're going to be doing in the near future? Is it something that you've done in the past that just keeps sticking around in your mind?

I'm interested to see where the prompt is going to take you this week.

Remember, you can join in at any time . . . if you fall behind (like me), you can do the cards you can and play catch-up later. ALSO, these prompts could very well serve as inspiration for a bigger layout instead of card. So come on, show me whatcha got!

You can check out Emily Falconbridge's card for this week HERE.

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery with a link back to the forum.

Have fun and happy scrapping!

Inspire Me Thursday - May 15th

2008-05-15T08:49:00.002-04:00

I was inspired by an article in the UK magazine "Scrapbook Inspirations" written by Cheryl Johnson. The article is making page accents that are truly unique and individual.
Here is the page that I took my example from:

Here is my example:

Go and check out this and our other challenges at The Shaker Box to keep you motivated!

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK TWELVE

2008-05-09T21:28:00.002-04:00

Short and sweet . . . here's your prompt for this week . . . I BELIEVE.

It can be something really big or something really small, but unleash your creativity and let's see what y'all come up with!

You can check out Emily Falconbridge's card for this week HERE.

Please make sure to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges/Deck of Me Gallery HERE.

I've got some catching up to do for the past couple of weeks, but I went ahead and completed my cards for this week. Here they are:

CLICK HERE FOR CREDITS

Inspire Me Challenge May 8, 2008

2008-05-08T08:23:00.000-04:00

I saw this in the May/June Scrapbooks Etc. It is a layout by Vicki Boutin, and it is based on a sketch. There are a couple of things I love about the layout.

First, how she sliced her paper and slide the other paper through! My brain just doesn't work like this! I love the idea though...and plan to use it!

Second, the stamping in the corners and the homemade flowers.

Let's see what inspiration you can pull from this beautiful layout!

It's National Scrapbooking Day!!!

2008-05-03T15:34:00.010-04:00

and we are joining in the blog hop for Scrapbook Dimensions Magazine!

Scrapbookdimensions.ning.com is a site hosted by Scrapbook Dimensions Magazine. We are the first and only magazine dedicated 100% to hybrid which is Scrapbooking with a Techno Twist (the best of digital and traditional methods combined). This is your destination for meeting like-minded scrappers for daily fellowship and inspiration. Join our community of over 800 scrappers.

Visit these blogs to get your free card sketch/template:

List of {Inter}National Blog Party Peeps:

http://jshahin.blogspot.com/
http://everydaydigitalscrapbooking.blogspot.com/
http://mphoinix.blogspot.com/
http://sarahpspdevotee.blogspot.com/
http://angeltown.typepad.com/
http://www.bitsofivory.com/wordpress
http://www.scrapevangel.blogspot.com/
http://karensdreamingbig.blogspot.com/
http://www.michellesink.com
http://www.digiscrapchat.com
http://angiehinksman.typepad.com/time_on_my_hands/
http://myfrogprince-and-i.blogspot.com/
http://cactusmango.blogspot.com/
http://www.thejulianablog.com/
http://www.elementalscraps.com/blog/
http://theshakerkitclub.blogspot.com - YOU ARE HERE
http://www.scrapwords.com/
http://www.flutterinbygirl.blogspot.com/
http://www.just-jana.blogspot.com/
http://www.scrapbook-trends.com/
http://countrylivs.blogspot.com/
http://bunnykissd.blogspot.com

So are you ready to get creative?? Well let's see what you can come up by using this template!

This is for those hybrid scrapbookers who like to stretch their creativity. Here is a preview of what you get when downloading. You can use any of your digital papers with this template.

If you do upload a creation using this template, please post it here and you will be entered to win a little scrappy something!

Get your template here. Hurry though this link won't be active after National Scrapbooking weekend!

Enjoy!

Inspiration Thursday!

2008-05-01T11:10:00.001-04:00

This week...I want you to take direction from your paper. Here I have added some bling to the polka-dots in my paper! Look through your paper and find something you can "pull out" of it with some bling!! Glitter, gems, anything blingy!

Here I put Stickles in the dots on just one line of the pink polka-dot paper...and sequins on some of the dots on the blue paper!

Time for a Little Digi

2008-04-30T07:24:00.006-04:00

The April kit is GORGEOUS and there are two coordinating digi add-ons to help you increase the versitility of your kit!

Here is Arts & Crafts

It's time for another Do-it Digi Challenge. No "paper look" with this challenge - that means no layered paper, frames, ribbons, eyelets, flowers etc. Just your photo(s) - maybe blended into your background - maybe some brushwork and text. Let your photo(s) really shine! Be creative and have fun with it! Be sure to share your layout in the gallery at The Shaker Box - yours just might be our next Layout of the Day!

Just wait until you see who our digital sponsor is for the month of May!!!

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK ELEVEN

2008-04-25T12:30:00.001-04:00

I'm posting this week's Deck of Me a little early . . . I have a concert tonight and a conference all day tomorrow, and didn't want to leave y'all hanging until Sunday!

So here's your prompt: YOUR INITIAL. The letter that represents you, your name.

There aren't any more requirements other than to have your initial on the card. How you express the letter from that point is up to YOU!

You can view Emily Falconbridge's card for this week HERE.

Remember to post your cards in the gallery HERE.

Inspiration Thursday

2008-04-24T01:53:00.002-04:00

I have seen this done lots of times, but I always seem to stick to the safe side and punch out items with plain cardstock. I don't know why!! Today, I want you to "go wild" and punch items out of patterned paper! I used up some scraps here! Be sure to link your creations to the Shaker Box gallery!

GOING GREEN - DO IT DIGI WEDNESDAY 4/23/08

2008-04-23T15:24:00.000-04:00

So yesterday was the official Earth Day . . . and there's been lots of buzz about conserving not only energy but resources and coming up with clever ways to recycle and reuse. We can see the trend in scrapbooking with digi scrappers and traditional scrappers alike looking to hybrid projects and reworking lots of regular items into a new and beautiful purpose.

So my question is: what are you doing now, in your home, with your family in your community organizations or churches, in the school systems, to make "going green" a reality? I have to admit, this isn't my strong point. However, our family has a little garden plot and have planted peppers and tomatoes. We repurposed some older lumber to create our garden box, and while that doesn't seem like much, knowing that we were able to make it with materials we already have, and that we will have an abundant crop of FREE fresh produce that we like to eat frequently is just another wonderful bonus.

I know, I'm long-winded today. What I'm looking for this week is for you to scrap a layout about the efforts you are making - big or small . . . or showing off a hybrid project . . . or for the traditional scrappers who join in with us, using up products that they already have in their scrapping collection. I'm leaving this open to interpretation - just go play, and post your project in the Shakin' Challenges/Do It Digi Challenges part of the gallery.

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK TEN

2008-04-19T01:28:00.001-04:00

Our prompt for this week is: NOTE TO SELF.

Is there something that you need to do for you, and just keep pushing it aside? What little thing about yourself do you need to be reminded of?

Take some time and write a little note just to you! When you look back, you just might be surprised what you had to say.

I'll be back later to post my own card, but in the meantime, you can view Emily Falconbridge's card HERE.

Make sure you post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery HERE.

Warm & Fuzzy Inspire Me Challenge

2008-04-17T09:20:00.003-04:00

I saw this in a UK craft magazine recently and thought it was a cute idea! It was really easy to do! I taped the end of the fiber to the back of the chipboard and covered the front with glue! Then I just wrapped it around!!

Do-it Digi at The Shaker!

2008-04-16T10:55:00.008-04:00

For this challenge I want you to blend at least one of your photographs into your background paper.

Look for a paper that blends with the background of your photo or recolor your photo to blend with a paper. You might try playing with the blending modes or the opacity on your photo. You might also want to use a soft or grungy brush as an eraser to blend the edges of your photo into the paper.

Here is one of my recent examples:

See The Shaker Box gallery for credits.

Have fun with this! I can't wait to see what artwork you create!

Speaking of digi, don't forget the exclusives this month at The Shaker Box from Mad Scrapper Designs, Robin Blankenship! There is her gorgeous In the Garden kit (our Creative Team has had lots of fun with this one)! There is also a quick cards freebie that Robin created with her In the Garden kit. Grab it while you can!

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK 9

2008-04-12T01:23:00.002-04:00

This week's prompt is what inspires you?

There are several things that inspire me . . . ranging from my children to the colors around me to how I feel.

This is my card for this week:

LINK TO GALLERY FOR CREDITS

You can also view Emily Falconbridge's card HERE.

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges Deck of Me Gallery (you can find it by CLICKING HERE).

Inspire Me Challenge April 10, 2008

2008-04-10T07:02:00.003-04:00

Chipboard! I want you to dress up your chipboard. Not just with paint or paper....try something new!!

I used my Cropadile and punched holes in mine, then attached them to my card with brads!

Let's see what you can do! Register at The Shaker Box and let us see your work. The link is to your left!!

DO IT DIGI WEDNESDAY - GLOWING PHOTOS

2008-04-09T12:12:00.004-04:00

There are numerous actions available to alter your photos before placing them on your layouts. I found a great tutorial by Jessica Sprague and I thought it would be fun to try enhancing a photo (or photos) today! This will be great for traditional scrappers to add a little something extra to their paper pages as well.

Here is the tutorial: JESSICA SPRAGUE'S PHOTOSHOP FRIDAY. I'm not familiar with other software programs to provide additional directions, but I hope that an Internet search or other digi scrappers here can provide additional assistance to those using other programs.

This is my layout:
LINK TO THE SHAKER BOX GALLERY FOR LAYOUT CREDITS

I followed the instructions in the tutorial, but what I ended up with was a combination of the medium and dramatic effects. I just kept adjusting until the photo "looked right" to me.

I hope you have fun . . . remember to post your layouts in the Shakin' Challenges Gallery HERE.

DECK OF ME CHALLENGE, WEEK 8

2008-04-06T23:09:00.003-04:00

Well, here we are: Week 8 of the Deck of Me Challenge.

This week's prompt is to write about someone or something you miss. I've often thought about some memories that I have about watching The Lawrence Welk Show with my cousin at my grandparents' home. During the show, there would always be a commercial for a lotion called Rose Milk. At the time, they offered the lotion as a cream in a small glass jar. I went on a search and could only find a picture of the product as it is being sold currently. It's the same picture on the bottle, but I really miss that little fat jar! My aunt always had a jar, and I would put on the lotion and watch the commercial and the whole Lawrence Welk show with my aunt and her parents (my grandparents). It seems like a really silly thing to miss . . . and I suppose I'm missing much more than the jar or the smell. Alas, my seven-year-old self will not return, nor will that little jar held by my aunt with that sweet smelling lotion.
You can view credits for my card HERE and you can view Emily Falconbridge's blog entry and card HERE.

So think about it: who are what are you missing right now?

Remember to post your cards in the Shakin' Challenges, Deck of Me Gallery HERE.

Wow Wednesday!

2008-04-02T08:04:00.006-04:00

So much going on at The Shaker Box! Where to I begin?!

We have just introduced four new members to our Creative Team - stop by and welcome Gina, Amber, Dee and Lisamarie!

As if there aren't already enough challenges with our Spring Fling crop, it's time for Wednesday's Do-it Digi challenge! Some of you were having a good time yesterday with April Fools jokes. Share a good April Fools joke, about your April Fools day in general, about your favorite jokester or just a funny story. Make the layout full of fun embellishments so it helps tell the story. Laughter is good medicine! I can't wait to see your layouts in The Shaker Box gallery!

Our digital sponsor this month is Robin Blankenship, Mad Scrapper Designs and I love the colors of her In the Garden kit - EXCLUSIVELY AT THE SHAKER BOX!

This week you can get the chance to chat with Robin at The Shaker Box - today at 1:00 PM EST and tomorrow at 9:00 PM EST. I hope you can join us!

Layout of the Week

2008-03-31T10:15:00.002-04:00

Congrats ScrappingAndrea!!!! This is an amazing layout!!! Thanks so much for being part of the Shaker Box!!!

Still not to late to come join the fun of our Spring Fling Crop!!!!! Stop by and check out the challenges, tutorials and fun!!!!!!!