Hi Bloggers --

Because we've had a ton of spam comments on this blog, we're trying a TypePad Blog instead.  We've moved some of our more popular posts to the new site.

Please start following our new blog at:

http://www.scrappersedge.typepad.com/

I'm not quite sure how I can be so tired, but so energized at the same time!  Getting ready for our upcoming sale has been exhasting, but fun.  Want to learn more?  Read on . . .




You may have already received a letter that was mass-mailed to over 5,000 customers in the area announcing our Huge Inventory Liquidation Sale that starts Thursday, September 10th.

PRICES will be SLASHED on EVERY SINGLE ITEM of merchandise in our store from 10 - 75% OFF our already-low prices during the HUGE SALES event!!!

As part of our Sale we have a Fantastic Prize Contest.  To get you started toward winning - simply  print this email and bring it to the store on Thursday, September 10th and we'll award you 5,000 Bonus Prize Dollars.  Be sure to visit the contest desk for details and see these great prizes on display.

On Thursday, Arrive early for the best selection.  Our opening is on Thursday, September 10th at 10am sharp. 

This sale is initiated only after careful consideration.  It is our way of thanking you for your business over the last five years.  Please be assured -- WE ARE NOT CLOSING.  We're simply thanking our customers for five great years in business.

As I was searching for just the right papers for the September "Get the Edge" kits, I stumbled across a great line from AdornIt, a line I haven't ever carried in our store before.  I liked the designs.  I liked the colors.  And, then I noticed the name of the line, "Nancy Jane."  Well, all I can say is SOLD.  Nancy Jane happens to be my mom's first and middle names.  How perfect is that?!?!?!?

Amy worked hard today getting all the kits sorted and bagged.  And, tonite, I had the pleasure of creating sample scrapbook pages.  Here's a sneak preview:





Subscribe today!!!   http://www.scrappersedge.net/Monthly_Kit_Club.html

--Sondra

After teaching four "Distress to Impress" classes over the last two months, it's fun to reflect back on how much fun each class was!  I was truely blessed by enthusiastic students willing to learn new, creative technqiues with the Ranger's Distress lines of products -- inks, embossing powders, crackle paint, etc.  I think the biggest surprise is how valuable the Inkssentials Non-Stock Craft Sheet is when blending inks!

Two students completed their Grungeboard Distress Quilts -- Amy and Pat -- check out their pictures below!




Since the distress techniques were so well received and so much fun, I'm incorporating distress technques in the September Cardmaking Class.  Join us on Wednesday, September 2nd from 5:30-7:30pm.  The class is only $15; please call 707-445-9686 to sign up.  Please bring scissors, adhesive, and a heat gun!  Here's the sample cards:




Well, its time to stop typing and clean up my craft table!  

                                                                                                --Sondra

Just sharing some pictures from the "Distress to Impress" class last week!  These students took their distressing skills very seriously!  (See below!)  In each of the two classes, I taught 6 techniques that I learned at Ranger U from Tim Holtz.  After learning all the technqiues, the participants started their grungeboard quilts!

A huge thanks goes out to Raven, Vonel, Suzette, Gerrie, Natalie, Charlotte, Vicky & Saundra for being such enthusiastic students!!



The next Distress to Impress classes will be August 5th & August 19th.

Check out all our fabulous classes at:    http://www.scrappersedge.net/Classes.html

--Sondra

I had SO MUCH fun creating the layout samples for our August "Get the Edge" kits!

Check them out:

   

Here's the card sample



This kit features papers from the Bo Bunny Calypso line, which feature very yummy summer colors!  We've also added a Basic Grey red lasercut doilie, Bazzill cardstock, American Crafts Thickers & Ribbon, and a gel pen! 

Subscribe today!!!

http://www.scrappersedge.net/Monthly_Kit_Club.html

Happy Scrappin'!!!

--Sondra

We're working hard fulfilling all our monthly kit subscription orders today!  And, this is my favorite kit so far!  I just love the picture I took of the kit.  Check it out:



This kit features papers & embellishments from Jenni Bowlin as well as Bazzill cardstock, Stickles glitter glue, Pebblies chipboard shapes and Doodlebug Sugar Coated brads.

Marcie designed two impressive page samples:

We often have a few kits available for non-subscribers every month.  However, if you want to make sure you get one every month, please subscribe.  We'd hate for you to miss out.  Most of the items in each kit ARE NOT available in the store to purchase so the only way you can get all the supplies is by getting a kit.

For more information and to subscribe, visit:
http://www.scrappersedge.net/Monthly_Kit_Club.html

Happy Paper Crafting!
--Sondra

We're very excited to announce to upcoming classes called "Distress to Impress" which are inspired by Tim Holtz and Sondra's recent Ranger U experience. 

Tuesday, July 14th
5:15-7:45pm
Distress to Impress #1
$22 (or $20 if you sign up & pay for the 7/28 class too)

If you'd like to create an aged look on papers, fibers, photos and more, you won't want to miss this class.  Sondra will be teaching techniques that she learned directly from Tim Holtz!  In each class you'll learn SIX technqiues that you'll practice and adhere to your detailed instruction sheets.  Then, you'll get to perfect your new skills on grungeboard, which you'll use to create a special 8x8" distressed grungeboard quilt, suitable for hanging on your wall.  Take just this class or take Distress to Impress #2 on July 28th too!  Please bring adhesive, scissors, heat gun, and a few of your favorite rubberstamps (if you have any).  Also, if you have a Craft Iron, Tidy Tray any any Tim Holtz Distress products (embossing powder, ink pads, crackle paint & stickles), please bring them.

Tuesday, July 28th
5:15-7:45pm
Distress to Impress #2
$22 (or $20 if you attend the 7/14 class too!)

It's time to Distress to Impress again!  Take just this class or combine it with the July 14th class to learn an entire collection of distress techniques.  As in Distress #1, Sondra will be teaching technqiues that she learned directly from Tim Holtz!  You'll learn SIX techniques that you'll practice and adhere to your detailed instruction sheets.  Then, you'll get to perfect your new skills on grungeboard, which you'll use to create a special 8x8" distresses grungeboard quilt.  Please bring adhesive, scissors, heat gun, and a few of your favorite rubberstamps (if you have any).  Also, if you have a Craft Iron, Tidy Tray and any Tim Holtz Distress products (embossingpowder, ink pads, crackle paint & stickles(, please bring them.

Please Note:  You will not be able to finish the quilt wall hanging in one class, so you're encouraged to take both classes!!!  If you take both classes, you will get enough supplies to complete two grungeboard quilts but will probably only finish one. 

Class size is limited to 12 students, so sign up NOW!!! 



Sondra Kirtley
Certified Ranger Educator

What's a mask?  Think of it as the opposite of a stencil!

Masks are available commercially from Tattered Angels, Tim Holtz and Heidi Swapp.  Sometimes, however, you may not be able to find the image you’d like to use.  It’s easy to make your own masks with transparency material (often called acetate) and a Cricut diecut machine.

 When cutting transparency material with your Cricut, use these settings:

                 Pressure = high
                 Speed = high or medium
                 Blade Depth = 5 or 6

Home-made masks are not tacky on one side, so it’s beneficial to use them with repositionable adhesive so they don’t slip when you’re spraying or inking over them.

Today, I made masks for my cardmaking class that's Wednesday night.

Here's pictures of the basic steps:

1.  Cut transparency material with Cricut:



2.  Remove the "mask" from the Cricut cutting mat:


By the way, if you have a Cricut you MUST have a Cricut Spatula too!  It will make your life so much easier when getting your diecuts off the cutting mat!

3.  Place the mask on cardstock with repositionable adhesive.  Spray the glimmer mist and pat dry as you go:



4.  Remove the mask and enjoy what you've created:




Regarding the Tattered Angels Glimmer Mists:

Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist is a fun product to use.   Glimmer Mists are water-based, shimmery dyes that work beautifully with paper crafts, as well as with wood, clay, ceramics and fabric.  Please remember to shake well before use!  When you spray you can get a spotty look, which you may like.  If not, blot with a paper towel frequently when spraying.

 If you don't have any Glimmer Mist handy, make your own!  Mix water and Perfect Pearls in a mini-mister and spray! 

About my work surface:

I always work on a Ranger Craft Sheet, which is a reusable sheet that protects your surface, that nothing sticks to, that is heat resistant, and that makes clean-up easy.  In fact, I have two Craft Sheets that I have taped together to cover a larger area.  And, if you have to go somewhere, you can simply roll them up, put them back in the box they came in, and go!

I've had a wonderful, crafty, Sunday afternoon and I hope what I shared insprires your creativity as well!

--Sondra

Day 3 of Ranger U was five days ago and I'm now home and have finally caught up on my sleep.  So, I'm finaly energized enough to report on Day 3, the final day of Ranger U.

Day 3 was all about the Adirondack products -- inks, pens, dimensional pearls, color wash, alcohol inks and dabbers.   Tim was our only instructor and must have been exhausted by the end of the day!  He is such a terrific teacher!  He's organized, he's funny, he's encouraging and he has mad skills!!!!  At the end of our long day of twenty six different techniques, we were honored with our "Certified Ranger Educator" certificates!  What an honor!  And, best of all, we were able to pack up a box of all of the supplies we used during the 3-day course that Ranger shipped home for us.

It was honestly hard to say goodbye to Tim.  I am so appreciative of the opportunity that he and Ranger provided, it was difficult and extremely emotional to attempt to say "thank you" in an adequate way.  Ranger is truely a top-notch company that excels at what they do.  I have not encountered another company in this industry that partners with retailers, educators, manufacturers, designers and authors the way Ranger does.  

This is a picture of the Ranger classroom:

   
I took this picture during our lunch break.  Each table was shared by 4 people.  I had the BEST tablemates -- Lori, Linda & Ann.  The entire Ranger U experience wouldn't have been nearly as enjoyable without these three fun, talented ladies. 

In the classroom, there are quite a few sample boards, such as this one:



Now, I have to share my favorite picture.  No explanation necessary!



At Ranger U, we learned over 80 technqiues.  I've already started planning classes from what I learned while there.  I have 14 classes tentatively planned and am going to start fine-tuning my ideas tomorrow for my July classes.  So, stay tuned for details!!!

This was another invigorating day at Ranger U.  We started with Claudine Hellmuth, who did an overview of techniques with her line of Ranger products -- which included:

• Paint Etching
• Gesso Texture
• Image Transfer
• Peeled Paper
• Multi Medium Resist
• Watermark Resist
• Embossing Resist
• Masking Tape Texture/Water Glaze
• Acrylic Watercolor
• Dry Brush/Color Mixing

Her acrylic paints, gesso and mediums are like no other that I've ever used.  They have such a smooth texture and conistency.  In fact, the quality is incredible!  Plus, she has this sticky back canvas that is super fun and very versatile to use.  I love, love, love her products!

After learning about her wonderful product line and her techniques, we were given a box to decorate -- and had only an hour to decorate it.  Here's what I created:





Then, we had a Distress Workshop with Tim Holtz.  The first product Tim helped develop at Ranger was the Distress ink pads.  I don't think they ever expected the incredible response they received from those first ink pads, and now he has added so many things.  It was fun to hear about the product development process, especially his work with the chemists.  And, it's wonderful how receptive Ranger has been to his ideas!




In Tim's class this afternoon, he covered:

• Distress Powder/Distress Embossing Ink
• Distress Crackle Paint
• Distress Crackle Paint Crackled Resist
• Distress Ink Rusted Enamel
• Distress Ink Nostalgic Batik
• Distress Ink Wrinkled
• Distress Ink Wrinkle Free
• Distress Ink Burnt Edge
• Distress Ink Spritz & Flick Mask
• Distress Ink Pearlized Distress
• Distress Ink Photo Tinting
• Distress Stickles

The distress techniques have been my favorite so far because these are the types of things I enjoy doing with my creations.  Plus, it's been fantastic to learn tips and tricks directly from Tim!  These are a few samples that I created in class:




Tomorrow is our third and final day of Ranger U.  We'll be working with Adirondack Dye Inks, Pigment inks, Color Wash, Alcohol Inks, and Dabbers.  I'm looking forward to another action-packed, creative day!

Take the time to check out the blogs of our wonderful Ranger U instructors:

http://claudinehellmuth.blogspot.com/

http://suzeweinberg.typepad.com/

http://www.timholtz.typepad.com/

Wow, how do I even begin to describe the first day of Ranger U?  Stimulating, exciting, action-packed, creative, fun, inspiring . . . the list goes on.  We started with a factory tour which was amazing.  While you'd expect everything to be ultra-automated, not everything is.  Their hands-on involvement and quality control is impressive!  I even got to keep a bottle of Stickles and Alcohol Ink mixative that I watched being manufactured.

These are the subjects we covered with Tim Holtz before lunch:

• Perfect Pearls Dusting
• Perfect Pearls Lifting
• Perfect Pearls Doodling
• Perfect Pearls Mist
• Perfect Pearls Painting
• Perfect Pearls on Peel-offs
• Perfect Pearls Faux Suede
• Clear, Super Fine Detail Clear and UTEE embossing powders
• Adirondack embossing posder / opaque vs. clear
• Embossing Antiquities
• Holographic embossing powder
• Powder manipulation

We mounted each technique sample on a tag so I have a great ring filled with samples from these wonderful techniques.  As I learned each new technique, my head was spinning with ideas for classes!  I had so many ideas after the first 1/2 of day one.  Can you imagine how I'll feel after these three days are over?  Holy moly; I cannot even tell you how excited I am!



The completed tags are shown above.  Here are a few more close-up views:

(Below L to R:  Painting with Perfect Pearls, Perfect Pearls on Peel-off stickers, and Faux Suede using Perfect Pearls)




So, after lunch, we had the pleasure of learning from Suze Weinberg:

• Image Transfer with Beeswax
• Beeswax Fusion
• Beeswax To Dye For
• Image Transfer with UTEE
• Textured Framed UTEE
• Faux Soldering with UTEE
• Amazing Agates with UTEE
• Mold n' Pour Basics
• Cloisonne with UTEE
• Stamp and Pour with UTEE

To finish, she had us create our own special framed "Melt Art Mosaic Frames."  It was such a terrific way to showcase what we learned. 




I honestly cannot say enough positive things about Tim, Suze and the entire Ranger staff.  After class, we had a barbeque right at the Ranger facility.  It was so fun to socialize and network with the wide range of Ranger staff and Ranger U attendees.  I should be exhausted from a full day of travel yesterday followed by 11+ hours at Ranger today but I'm so far from tired.  I'm eager and anxious for Day 2!

For more photos, visit:  http://photos.scrappersedge.net/   I have 2 albums -- "Ranger Samples" which includes samples that are displayed in the Ranger Classroom -- and "Ranger U" which are pictures that I took of my personal experiences.

Tomorrow will include a "Claudine Hellmuth Studio" Overview with Claudine Hellmuth AND "Distress Overview" with Tim Holtz. 

Stay tuned!

I just designed the card for my upcoming Cardmaking Class on June 17th.

Here's the picture:




First, we'll be using butterfly screens that I custom made with the Cricut, using the Indie Cartridge.  After placing the screens on the peach-colored cardstock, we'll simply spray the Glitter Mist and pat dry with a paper towel.  What a fun background these steps will create!  (We have lots of screens and masks in stock by Tattered Angels, Tim Holtz and Heidi Swapp so you don't have to make your own!)

Other things we'll use, include:

• VersaMark Dazzle watermark stamp pad
• Cuttlebug embossing template
• Rubber stamps
• Craft-T metallic rub-ons
• Brads
• Punches
• and more!

We're making a set of 6 for only $25.  For more information, visit:  http://www.scrappersedge.net/Classes.html

Class size will be limted to 10 people so sign up early!!!

So, are you one of those people who loves font?

Check out this site:

www.kevinandamanda.com

You'll find a ton of fun fonts that are FREE to download.   Many of them look like handwriting which can make your scrapbook journaling not only fun, but more visually interesting!

By the way, thanks Kristen S. for sharing this website with us. 

 At our National Scrapbook Day Crop, my mom made three delicious soups.  The Taco Soup was a HUGE hit and I've been asked for the recipe by everyone attending the Crop that night.  I thought it only appropriate to share it with everyone!!!  It's so easy to make and so yummy.                          

                                                        Enjoy!
                                                            Sondra

Cropper's Delight
TACO SOUP
as featured at the Scrapper's Edge 2009 National Scrapbook Day Celebration

Ingredients:

1 lb hamburger
1 large union chopped
3 cans Mexican-style chili beans undrained
1 15oz can whole kernel corn undrained
1 15oz can tomato sauce
1 14oz can chopped green chilies
1 1-oz envelope of rancy-style dressing mix
1 1-oz envelope taco seasoning mix
1 1/2 cups of water


Directions:

Cook beef & onions
Stir in beans & next 8 ingredients
Bring to boil.  Reduce heat.  Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.


Toppings:  (this is the fun part)

Corn chips
Shredded Lettuce
Chopped Tomatoes
Sour Cream
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Olives
Onions

Enjoy!

One of our favorite customers is attending an out-of-town scrapbooking retreat the end of this month and asked me today for advise on what to bring.  (There won't be any supplies available for purchase there.)

I always suggest that people "pre plan" if they can by putting together the pictures with the papers they want to use.  Stacking them in a box or using envelopes to organize them works really well.  I ALWAYS do this when going to a retreat and it saves so much time.  I also will add any titles or special embellishments that go with each grouping.  While this isn't easy for everyone to do, it helps you from having to feel like you have to take every single piece of paper you have!!!    

I also suggested that she not forget "the obvious" which I've seen people do at almost every retreat.  (pictures, scissors, trimmer)

Other than that, I suggested she stock up on commonly used supplies, such as:

• adhesive
• trimmer blades

The great thing about a retreat is that people share!  So, whatever you do, remember you're going to have a terrific time.  Don't stress trying to prepare!

Anyone else have suggestions on "must take" items for a retreat?

Oh dear -- what a kick the team contest was tonite at our National Scrapbook Day Crop.  The Croppers broke into 6 teams of 3 or 4 people each and were given an hour to decorate a 3 foot high paper doll.  What a hoot!  One team (Debbi, Gerrie, Gleanda & Lisa) decided to "dress" their doll exactly like me -- including my funky purple-pigtail headband!  Check out the dolls:

I am SO excited about National Scrapbook Day, which is tomorrow, May 2nd.  We have fun classes planned all day, along with product demonstrations.  Then, we'll conclude with  the Crop of all Crops in the evening.  We have a delicious soup and salad dinner planned for the Croppers.

During the day, there will be discounts on EVERY item -- even items already on sale.  And, we're having a super raffle with 23 incredible prizes.  One of the best prizes is the Karen Foster rolling tote!

And, best of all -- we're featuring 3 new lines by My Minds Eye -- Breaking Free, Pretty Please and Andrea Victoria.  Breaking Free has over 40 new papers -- some with a fun, beach theme including surf boards and tropical flowers.  Pretty Please has great bright colors.  And, Andrea Victoria is the opposite of the first two; it has more muted, earthy colors -- great for heritage pictures.  The Breaking Free line has embellishments so unique -- you've got to check them out!  (see below)

The part I'm really looking forward to is the games during the Crop.  I have a team game planned that nobody will expect.  I've kept the game a secret from EVERYBODY -- my employees don't even know about it.  It will be incredibly fun for everyone.  The creative juices will really be flowing during this game!

Well, I have more to do to prepare for tomorrow.  I hope you can stop by and join in the fun!

At the CHA convention, I was extremely impressed with Tim Holtz.  (If you've read previous blog posts you'll understand!)  So, I decided to apply for Ranger University, which is a 3-day learning opportunity at the Ranger facility in New Jersey.  In addition to completing an application, I sent pictures of some of my creations.  Well, I never dreamed that I would be accepted.  However, I just got the email from Tim Holtz --  I was accepted!  Yipee!  They only accept 24 people so I'm thrilled. 

It will be taught by Tim Holtz, Claudine Hellmuth and Suze Weinberg.

I had to stop jumping up and down long enough to type this message.  Gotta go  . . .  got some more jumping up and down to do.

For more information about Ranger products, visit:
http://www.rangerink.com/

For more information about Ranger University, visit:
http://www.rangerink.com/rangeruniversity.htm

We've had such a terrific response to our Cricut classes and new cartridges, that we've decided that we're going to . . .

GET CRICUT CRAZY in May!

We're going to have a Cricut Class each Wednesday Night in May.  Here's the tentative plan:

Wednesday, May 6th:      Beginning Cricut
Wednesday, May 13th:    Design Studio
Wednesday, May 20th:    Cutting Vinyl
Wednesday, May 27th:    Cutting the Cuttlebug Embossing Folders with your Cricut

So stay tuned.  Marcie, the Instructor, is starting to plan these fabulous classes!

Remember, if you have an idea for a class or have a technique you'd like to learn, let us know!

Ever since we received the new Graphic 45 vintage-inspired papers, I've wanted to "create" with them.  So, today I finally had a chance!  They are so beautiful -- and two sided!  What a bonus!

Along with the Graphic 45 paper and tags, I used Bazzill cardstock, Prima flowers, Tim Holtz stamps, Tim Holtz snaps, ric rac, twill .. . and more!  I absolutely love these cards!  We'll cut, punch, tear & crumple paper into these three great cards!

Join us for the April 8th Class!  It's only $12!  707-445-9686

Tim Holtz has some fabulous new demo videos on his website.  Check it out:

http://www.timholtz.com/demos.html

He even shows the new alcohol ink pens -- that should be arriving this month!

Tim is really fun to watch because he has such a great personality and has so much knowledge to share.  Enjoy!

Check out page 14 of The Northcoast Journal's 2009 Wedding Guide:

http://ncjwedding.journalgraphicsdigital.com/pubs/ncjwedding/current/

About a month ago, I was interviewed by Judy Hodgson, the Publisher of the Northcoast Journal about trends in wedding invitations.  I shared recent trends and showed her invitations that I've designed and printed as well as invitation samples that I made by hand.  We also talked about creative save-the-date cards and other creative wedding ideas.

I really enjoyed talking with Judy.  I didn't really know what she was planning for the article.  I just figured that she'd use a couple of ideas that I mentioned in the article and use a few pictures of the samples I gave her.  Wow, was I wrong.  The article is entitled, "Sondra Kirtley.  One Crafty Lady."  I was in shock.  She really did a nice job writing the article.  I'm very flattered.   One of my customers even asked me to autograph the article!  (How cute was that!?!?!?!?)

So, check out the link above!

We're putting together the March Kits today!  How exciting!  They feature the "Hoopla" collection from We R Memory Keepers!

Check out this sample page:

The kit not only includes terrific papers, but fun flock, dimensional paint, ribbon, self-adhesive pearls, brads and more!

Oh my goodness -- we just received the new custom papers & embellishments for most of our local high schools:  Eureka, Arcata, Fortuna, McKinleyville & Ferndale.  For each school, we have 4 custom papers as well as laser diecuts, brads, stickers and chipboard embellishments.  And, if that wasn't enough, we received custom album kits for Eureka, Arcata & Fortuna high schools.  Each album kits contains an album, papers & embellishments for only $44.99.

If we haven't received your school yet, don't worry.  We're starting with these 5 and will add more later.  Please let us know which schools you'd like us to carry.  We may even do some of the grade and middle schools, as well as the colleges.

This is just a start -- and a very good one!!!!

See you soon . . .   G O     T E A M !!!

I am so excited about our upcoming March 11th Cardmaking Class!  Each student will be making EIGHT notecards with their custom monograms.  We're using the new JustRite interchangeable stamp system (Curlz Monogram Kit).  In addition, we'll be using the Marvy southwestern corner edger, Craft-T metallic rub-on chalk, the Cuttlebug, rhinestones, ribbon, and more!

Each participant will even get a clear acrylic box to put their set of notecards in!  What a great thing to either make for yourself, or for a gift!

If you're interested, sign up early!  Call us at 707-445-9686.  Space will be limited.  The class is only $20 and includes all supplies, including envelopes.  Please bring your basic tool kit:  trimmer, scissors & adhesive.

We have a great promotion  . . . while supplies last!  Get he  FREE GIFT pictured below with purchase of 10 American Crafts Scrapbook papers and 2 packages of Thickers stickers.



Congratulations, Raven, on being the first person to receive the FREE GIFT today!  Hurry in . . .  these won't last long!

Today was the highlight of CHA.  First of all, I completed a TON of orders.  I'll tell you later about those!

But, more exciting, was that I went to see what was going on at the Ranger booth and Tim Holtz was doing Make & Takes! 

I was in heaven.  Using the new Inkssentials Memory Capsules along with various Tim Holtz Idea-ology products, hammer, Glossy Accents, Memory Frames & distress inks -- we made a great little framed piece of art.  At one point, Tim looked at what I was doing and said, "Nice!"  I was definitely in heaven.  Why wouldn't I be?  Tim Holtz just complimented my work.  I kind of had a out-of-body experience -- it was like I was floating in the air.  Then reality surfaced -- I heard him say "Nice" to someone else too.

He is so warm, funny, and calm.  And he explains things so well.  I've actually had instructors at my store that act like Divas.  I then compare and contrast these self-proclaimed "divas" to Tim and find he's just the opposite.  He's amazingly humble and willing to share his expertise.  He was actually at the Ranger booth doing demonstrations and make & takes MORE than he was even scheduled for.  I think that speaks highly of him!

So, here it is.  My Tim Holtz inspired masterpiece:



Pretty cool, huh!?!??!?!

--Sondra

Get ready to get organized!  I found a great system for unmounted stamps and Cricut Cartridges!  Oh, it also works for other things too, like embellishments . . .  it's the ScrapOnizer.  (I've seen their ads in magazines and trad journals but didn't quite "get it" until I saw them in person!  The Cricut cartridge storage solution is what sold me on this company!!!


This first picture is from their webiste.  The 2nd picture I took with the Cricut cartridges in it.  Shown above is 4 cartridges along with 4 books & keypads in a very thin 8.5x11" clear organizer.  This is definitely what I'm going to do with my cartridges.  I don't have a good picture of their organizers that work well with unmounted stamps, but check out their website at www.scraponizer.com


I found three incredible paper lines:

Graphic 45:  http://www.g45papers.com
Their papers have a great vintage look!


Webster 's Pages:  http://www.websterspages.com/
Very pretty papers!

Bella Blvd:  http://www.bellablvd.net/
This is a very new company with fun, bright papers!

Check out these links! 

While Tim Holtz and the new Ranger products were impressive, other booths that caught my eye today, include:

• JustRite Stamps -- what a great, interchangeable system where you can mix and match various fonts, borders & centers.  Check out www.justritestampers.com  I've never seen anything like this! 
• Rubber Stamp Concepts -- very unique unmounted stamps.  Check out www.rubberstampconcepts.com
• Glitz Design --  I love their bold paper patterns, especially Audrey, Glam & GiGi.  They also just started doing clear stamps that are pretty impressive.  Check out www.glitzitnow.com
• GCD Studios -- They claim that "we make luxury affordable" and they're not kidding.  I used their "Whoop De Do" line in one of our monthly kits and was extremely impressed.  Now, I'm even more impressed.  They've added glitter, foil, and shimmer to their papers.  And, they're even making some diecut papers.  Check out www.gcdstudios.com

Here's a picture of the JustRite stamp system:

This is the Make & Take my mom did at the JustRite booth:



I have other samples from the JustRite booth at:  http://photos.scrappersedge.net/

We're not suppose to take pictures inside the show, but some of the exhibitors don't mind.  I'll try to post even more pictures tomorrow.

Happy Scrapping!

CHA today has been absolutely terrific.  We were there all day and probably only made it through 1/3 of the show.  Yes, it's that huge!

My favorite part of the day was at the Ranger booth.  Tim Holtz was doing demonstrations.  I watched, listened, and learned in amazement.  He's so kind, comical and talented.  Here's the product highlights:

• There are 24 new Ranger Alcohol Inks in Lights and Brights palette.  The colors are amazing!
• There is now a Alcohol Inks Fillable Pen.  This is my all-time favorite new Ranger product!  You can create custome alcohol ink markers with this fillable pen and your favorite alcohol inks.  This dual-tipped dry pen can be filled by using just a few drops of your favorite color of alcohol ink.  (You can also fill one with the blending solution!)  You can draw, doodle, journal, write, outline and color using it.  It works great on glossy papers, glass, metal & plastic.  It will be available March 2009.   For all of you alcohol ink lovers, this is a "must have."
• Ranger is making Inkssentials Memory Capsules -- an exciting extension to their memory glass, frames and foil products.  You can use Memory Capsules to hold small 3-D mementos, glitter, charms, beads and more inside the Ranger Memory Frames.  These, too, will be available March 2009.
• Tim Holtz has great additions to his Idea-ology embellishment line.  My favorite are the "foliage" -- metal flowers & leaves.  Tim added alcohol ink, bent, and distressed them and added them to inked & stamped art that he did.  They were incredible.  My 2nd favorite Idea-ology product were the new metal corners!  They're fabulous.

Tim not only let me take his picture, but he also let my mom have one of his art pieces that he made while we were watching.  I don't think my mom understood what a big deal that was.  I tried to explain to her that he's sort of like the "Rock Star" of paper crafting!  Here's the picture of him and the picture of the art that he made that I now have:

 

I keep losing my internet connection here at the hotel.  So, I'm going to conclude this post and start another soon!  I don't want to lose this entry . . .  so stay tuned!

--Sondra

         

I'm here!  I've arrived!  And, I must admit, I am so darn excited.

The show starts tomorrow.  We were able to get our name badges (required for entry each day) and attend a Opening Reception tonite.  After peaking in the exhibit hall, I'm not sure I'll be able to sleep tonite.

Cameras are not allowed in the exhibit hall but I'll see what I can do to somehow, someway take pictures tomorrow so I can upload them tomorrow night!

Stay tuned!  And, happy crafting!

--Sondra

I'm so excited -- I worked really hard this weekend re-designing the website and it's finally "up." 

Check it out:  www.ScrappersEdge.net

I'll be adding more content (both fun and informative) soon.

What's really cool is that it has links to our blog, Facebook, YouTube, Quotes of the Day . . .  and more!  Check it out and let me  know what you think.

Thanks,
Sondra

I love words.  I love fonts.  I love shapes.  And, to my amazement, I just found a great website that plays with my love of these things.

Check it out:

www.wordle.net

First, I had it obtain words from this blog and make a random pattern:



Fun, huh? 

Next, I typed in words related to Scrapper's Edge.  Check this out:



And, if you don't like what they create, you simply press a button and it will re-design your words.  They use different shapes, colors, fonts, backgrounds.  It's really neat.

And, you can print them to use them on cards, scrapbook pages or other works of art.  Instead of printing them on paper, I "printed" them to an Adobe PDF converter and then converted them to JPG files so I could share them here with you.  By doing so, I can resize and re-color them easily in various programs, such as Adobe Photoshop.

Check it out and enjoy!!!!

If you're like me, you try to avoid making New Year's Resolutions.  Why set yourself up like that, huh?

This year is no exception.  I didn't make the "weight loss" or "eat healthier" or "excercise more" resolutions that I usually do.  However, I did make ONE resolution.  I resolve to BLOG MORE. 

I always think of things to blog about when I'm driving down the road, laying in bed, or taking a shower.  These are obviously not convenient times to pull out the 'ole laptop and start typing away.  And, look, it's already January 15th and I'm only now just doing my first entry for the year.  Am I doomed to fail at this resolution, too?  I hope not!

I'm going to do my best to blog more.  I have so much to share!

What's your New Year's Resolution?

As I was getting ready for work this morning, I noticed a box of glue dots on my dresser.  Not something typically on a person's dresser, huh?  I actually had used the glue dots about a week ago to put a temporary hem in a pair of pants!  It was quick and easy -- and, most importantly, effective!

 I've been thinking about the other "alternative" uses that I've found for my scrapbooking supplies.  Once, I used a photo mounting square to repair a crack in my nail; I was at a Crop and wasn't going to let a cracked nail slow me down!  I often use my tape runner ot wrap presents.

What type of creative, non-traditional uses have you found for your craft supplies?

Two of our regular monthly "Get the Edge" kit subscribers were in class Tuesday night and asked about our upcoming December Kit.  (Thanks Raven and Kris for asking about it and for being so enthusiastic!)  The only thing I told them was, "Believe that it will be amazing!"

So, now, I'll share more . . .

The December Kit will include:

• Bo Bunny "Believe" papers (5)
• Bo Bunny "Beleive" stickers & cut-outs
• Bo Bynnt Double Dot cadstock - wine & evergreen
• My Little Yellow Bycile Fleur Edge paper
• Bazzill bling and standard cardstock
• Queen & Company red and green pearls
• Creative Impressions gold and silver spiral clips
• KaiserCraft "Beleive" rhinestone word
• Bo Bunny ribbon, Quickie glue, and more!

The kits should be ready around December 1st.  To ensure you get a kit each month, subscribe at www.ScrappersEdge.net

Here'a a sneak peak of the December kit:

Thursday I had a meeting with two local radio reps.  They wanted to know what's "new" at the store so they can help promote the things we do!  For about 45 minutes, they asked questions about different products, services, classes and specials . . . and it was really good for not only them, but me!  Sometimes I get so busy working on the business that I forget to sit back and reflect on all the great products, services, and classes we provide!  It often takes an "outside" person to make me realize how unique my business is.

We do the radio station's printing so they knew all about our printing services . . .  and now they realize how much we really have to offer! 

Not only do we carry scrapbooking supplies, but we have other art and craft supplies too --  altered art, rubberstamping, polymer clay, kids' crafts, Pergamano, painting, beading, and more.  In addition, we have stationery, picture frames and office supplies. 

Our class offerings are varied -- scrapbooking, cardmaking, rubberstamping, altered art, Pergamanom, Cricut, polymer clay, and more.  We also have "Crops" where customers bring in whatever they want to work on.  Each cropper gets 6 feet of table space, full access to the classroom tools, and visits while enjoying their projects and the food we provide. 

Plus, we offer our classroom to groups for private classes or other events. 

I think the radio representatives were most impressed with two of our current promotions.  First, we're now offering a "Gobble Gobble" buck for every $25 a person spends on merchandise.  These bucks can be redeemed like cash right after Thanksgiving.  Another ongoing promotion is our Purple Scrap Strong bracelet.  The bracelet is free with any purchase and those who wear it into the store can take advantage of daily specials we have ONLY for bracelet wearers. 

We do all this . . .  while getting new products in every week, offering our products at a discount, and taking pride into getting to know our customers.

I couldn't be more pleased with how the business has developed over the past 4+ years and, more importantly, I couldn't be more pleased with all the great friends I've made.

Thanks to all our customers for supporting Scrapper's Edge!!!!!

Check out our November Kit!

They're ready NOW for all subscribers.  If you're not a subscriber, there will be more kits ready next week.  (It's smart to subscribe to ensure you get a kit!  While we try to make extra kits every month, we can only guarantee that we'll have enough for our subscribers.)

To subscribe, visit:  www.ScrappersEdge.net

This kit includes products from Making Memories, Scenic Route, Bazzill, Heidi Swapp and 7 Gypsies -- all coordinated to make your paper art projects fun and easy!

Many people have either looked at or used the Masks by Heidi Swapp.  Now, with Heidi's stamp of approval, paper artist Tim Holtz has his own line of Masks. 

Tim's are unique.  Not only are the designs very different from Heidi's, but his masks are clear allowing the user to see exactly where they're placed and what outcome he or she is achieving.

If you haven't heard of a mask, think of it as a stencil in reverse.  You place the mask on your paper or other object and ink, chalk or paint around it.

To learn more, check out this outstanding video by Tim Holtz:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cpswkp9_npM

By the way, when you're on You Tube, search "Tim Holtz" and see his wide variety of technique videos and get inspired!

Last night we had a fabulous group of students at the Beginning Scrapbook Class.  Thanks Cindy, Natalie, Tiffany, Brenda & Judy for attending and being so fun!  It's always inspiring to be around new scrapbookers who are just discovering how fun and rewarding scrapbooking is!

Cindy had a great idea -- about having a Scrapbook Night every Tuesday.  So, I'm considering starting a Tuesday Night Crop from 5:30-8:30 every Tuesday OR every other Tuesday starting on October 14th.   The fee would be $5.

What do you think????  Are you interested?  If so, would you prefer EVERY Tuesday or EVERY OTHER Tuesday?

Let me know!

I just finished ordering all the "ingredients" for our October "Get the Edge" Monthly Kit.  For October, each kit will include:

• 12 Double-Sided papers from the GCD Studios "Whoop De Do" line
• 5 yards of GCD Studios designer ribbon
• GCD Studios die cut chipboard shapes
• GCD Studios rub-ons
• GCD Stuidios epoxy Stickers
• Making Memories tiny alpha brown stickers
• Paper Accents cream tags (25)
• Craft-T Chalk in light brown, dark brown & blue
• Tsukineko Coloring tools (2)
• My Minds Eye cardstock embellishments

This is going to be an incredible kit and an incredible value!  All this for only $24.99  . . . available for pick up or delivery.

Interested?  Read more about it at our website at www.ScrappersEdge.net

You can even subscribe online!

Here's a sneak peak of the papers:



And, here's some of the embellishments:

              

I love crops.  I love the energy and creativity in the room.  I love how we learn from one another.

I must admit, however, that there's one thing that always stresses me out about the crops -- the seating arrangement.  When assigning tables, my first consideration is always grouping friends together.  That's the easy part.  Then, I actually have people who request specific tables.  And, I even have people who request NOT to sit by a specific person or persons.  The next think I must consider is electrical outlets for those with Cricuts or other electronic devices.  And, lastly, when people are "solo" and not coming with friends -- I try to put them next to people I think they'll enjoy.  This all equates to one huge puzzle.

In the end, everyone gets along.  Everyone enjoys themselves.  And, I guess I worry too much about pleasing everyone. 

Maybe next time I shouldn't assign seats and just see what happens . . . what do you think?

After researching and planning for a few months -- we're finally excited to announce the launch of the  . . .

    Scrapper's Edge Monthly "Get the Edge" Kit Club

This kit is great!  Every month we'll feature great papers and embellishments coordinated and ready for you to get your creative juices flowing.  You can either pick it up at the store (if you're local) or we can ship it to you.  The kit is only $24.99 and shipping is generally $6-$8 depending on where you live.

Kits will ship out (or be ready for pick up) the first 1/2 of each month!!!

The first one features:

• Cloud 9 "Sunrise Smoothie" papers and embellishments
• Making Memories "Noteworthy" diecut papers, blossoms & letters
• Bazzill cardstock
• Ranger "Stickles" glitter glue
• Assorted ribbon
  

Some of the contents are shown below:




Someone recently told me that my blogs are "cute" because I include the word "Yipee" at the end of each of them.  How funny!  I didn't even realize it!  Oh well -- I just can't help but show my enthusiasm for my store, our products & services, and most of all, our customers!

Horraaaayyyyyy!   

I couldn't be more excited!  ProvoCraft is coming out with great new products for the Cricut.  This is what I just ordered:

New Cartridges:  Hello Kitty, Hello Kitty Font, Basketball, Christmas, Wild Card and Sans Serif

New Accessories:  Magnet Material, Stencil Material, Heat Transfer Flock Material, Deep Cut Blade Housing & Blades, Embossing Folder Kit, AND Stamp Kit.

Could this be any more exciting?  Wow!  I cannot imagine scrapbooking without the Cricut and all these new materials and cartridges just make the Cricut even more versatile!

Yipee!!!!!!!!!!!

I couldn't be more excited!  ProvoCraft is coming out with great new products for the Cricut.  This is what I just ordered:

New Cartridges:  Hello Kitty, Hello Kitty Font, Basketball, Christmas, Wild Card and Sans Serif

New Accessories:  Magnet Material, Stencil Material, Heat Transfer Flock Material, Deep Cut Blade Housing & Blades, Embossing Folder Kit, AND Stamp Kit.

Could this be any more exciting?  Wow!  I cannot imagine scrapbooking without the Cricut and all these new materials and cartridges just make the Cricut even more versatile!

Yipee!!!!!!!!!!!1

If you're like me, you love Stickles glitter glue -- it comes in a wide-variety of colors AND is so easy to use.

We just received a display with 30 colors! 

Let your art "sparkle" with acid free, non-settling Stickles™ glitter glue! Easily write, dot, dash, draw and embellish on paper and rubber stamping projects, candles, memory album covers and more! Available in .5 oz. fine point applicator tip bottles.

• Acid free
• Non-toxic
• Non-settling
• Easy-flow tip
• Water wash-off

If you do craft projects awayf rom home at classes, crops, conventions, or friend get-togethers, you know what it's like . . .  at least one person arrives with so much stuff that you wonder if she left anythng at all at home.  Then there's that person who walks in with a single, well-organized tote and a calm look on her face.  You wonder, "what's her secret?"  Well, her secret is that she planned ahead!

So .   . .    let's help each other out . . .

Please post your favorite tip for planning ahead for crops and other get togethers! 

Hey Cricut Lovers -- are you eady to add a cool new accessory to your Cricut machine: the Cricut Jukebox™ cartridge station.????

This brilliant new device makes working with multiple Cricut cartridges a snap! Simply insert the Cricut Jukebox plug into the cartridge slot of your Cricut machine. Insert up to 6 cartridges into the Cricut Jukebox core unit. Then press the button on the core unit to select the cartridge you’d like to work with, and make your cutting selection like usual. When you want to switch to another cartridge, instead of going through the whole swapping process you can just press another button to select the next cartridge. Done and done!

This handy little device is a dream come true when working with the Cricut DesignStudio software! If you’re like me and you’re only content designing a cut with the software that uses 5 different cartridges, then you can cut it out a whole heck of a lot faster with this timesaving unit.

Do you know what else is great? You can connect up to three different core units so you have 18 cartridges at your fingertips (literally!). Then stack up the core units to make a power tower of your cartridge collection. You can even store the handbooks and overlays of the 6 cartridges you’re using in the base of the core unit. So you save both space and time… now this is an accessory that really sparkles!

The Cricut Jukebox cartridge station also works with all Cricut machines and all Cricut cartridges. You can get the Cricut Jukebox cartridge station in July for around $89.99 (just the price of a cartridge).

We already have these ordered!  Call us if you want to call you when they arrive!!!

Also arriving soon:  the Cricut Cartridge storage binders!

These binders can hold up to 8 cartridges and overlays. They are designed to sit on your shelf next to your other Cricut binders, with blue trim for shape cartridges and peach trim for font cartridges. Each binder set also includes labels to identify the binders.

While these are meant to be an optional storage device for the Cricut Solutions cartridges, you better believe these are a great option for all of your cartridges.

Again, let us know if you want us to call you when they arrive here at Scrapper's Edge!

If you're like me, you're a magazine junkie!  I just love the ideas I get from them.  Plus, it helps me "get in the mood" to scrapbook or to do other paper craft projects.

At class one night last week, one of the students had a great idea for organzing magazines.  Instead of organizing them in date order, year after year, she groups them in seasons.  For example, all the Winter-month magazines are in the same area no matter what year.  So, when she needs a Christmas or Winer layout idea, she just grabs that section of magazines. 

Doesn't this make sense?

Thanks, Raven, for the great idea!  And keep sharing those helpful tips!

Happy Crafting everyone!

I just love this time of year!  Everyone is more relaxed.  People are enjoying our better weather.  And, best of all, we get the opportunity to chat with tourists from all over the word.

Yesterday, we had a lady from Provo, Utah that was extremely impressed with our large selection.  That was quite nice to hear considering Provo is the unofficial scrapbook capitol of the world. 

During the week we even had visitors from Australia and Ireland not to mention various other states. 

Today, we've assisted even more tourists traveling through Redwood Country during this long Memorial Day weekend. 

The comment we hear most from tourists is, "I wish we had a store like this where we live."  So, for all of you thinking that, we plan to start developing monthly paper craft kits that we'll be shipping all over!  Stay "tuned" for details!  And, if you have any suggestions, let us know! 

After having the regular, original Cricut die cut machine for a year now, I'm SO excited -- I've decided to get the larger Cricut Expression.  It cuts much larger items so I'm looking forward to cutting my own scalloped paper, large circles, and more!!!!

By the way, we have the Cricut Expression back in stock for only $329.99. 

No need to order online and pay freight -- when we have the Cricuts in stock and very low prices!

The regular Cricut is only $199.99.

So for all your Cricut needs -- machines, cartridges, ink pens, cutting mats, Classes and more -- visit Scrapper's Edge!

Hey everyone -- Undu is back!

Hurry in while supplies last!

By the way, I plan to blog more often.  However, if you need a question answered quickly, please email us directly rather than post a question on the blog!

Thanks,

Sondra

 

I am SO excited about the new Cricut Cartridges that we have discount priced at only $45.99

• Home Accent
• Campout
• Wedding
• Street Sign

Also, TWO new DISNEY cartridges just arrived:

• Pooh & Friends
• Pooh Font

We also have back in stock:

• Jasmine
• Beyond Birthdays
• Stretch Your Imagination

I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my Cricut.  I cannot imagine scrapbooking without it. 

 

Many of us have been saddened by the loss of the wonderful product Un-du.  So, I emailed the manufacturer of the product to see if it will be available again!  Good news, crafters!  Read below:

-------------------------------

Mark your calendar for National Scrapbook Day -- Saturday, May 3rd.

It's going to be SO much fun!

We're going to do short, 1-hour classes during the day followed by a fun-filled Crop starting at 4 or 5pm 'til Midnight.  We're also going to do product demonstrations. 

The schedule should be available by April 10th so check the website and your emails often!

--Sondra

I am So excited about the Paper Craft Rummage Sale we're having today at the store.  (Saturday, February 23rd)

It's from 10am-4pm.

There will be 15 tables overflowing with great deals!

It should be a ton of fun.

Saundra J's Cricut Project, the Love Post-It Holder, made the Cricut CHIRP online newsletter! 

Check it out:

http://www.cricut.com/messageboard/tm.aspx?m=1529909

Saundra J is definitely our resident Cricut Expert and we're so excited to have her talent showcased in such a wonderful way!

I am SO excited about the addition of Anne Igou as an instructor here at Scrapper' Edge.  Anne is a self-taught, award-winnng artist who has been creating and teaching polymer clay for 15 years.  As a published artist and designer, she is in great demand for both her signature masks and jewelry desings.  In addition to work as a professional demonstrator and desighter, Anne has been featured as a regular guest on HGTV's Carol Duvall Show and both DIY Network Shows, Jewelry Making and Craft Lab.

Tonite she's teaching her first class here!  We'll be making a special match box valentine!

Next month she's doing a clay book mark class on February 28th from 5:30-8:00pm.  It's only $24.  She's featuring a technique called Mokume Gane.  Mokum Gane is a Japanese Metalworking technique which dates back to the 1900s.  In recent years, this technique has been developed for use iwth Polymner Clay.  Polymer Clay Mokume Gane is the process of layering clay with other colors of clay, metal leaf, paing and other materials and maniuplating the layers to create dimensional characeristics.

Stop by to see the book mark examples and to SIGN UP for Anne's next class!

Love an upcoming class but can't make it to class?

For most classes, you can get a class kit.  It's the SAME price as the class.

If you attend a class and want an extra kit, some teachers offer a discount for multiple kits purchased by the same person -- just ask!

Wait 'til you see the Pull-EZ Ribbon Organizer!  First, you'll think to yourself, "why didn't I think of that?"  Then you'll say, "wow, I need one for all my ribbon!"

Stop by and check them out!

I am absolutely amazed at how quickly our Weekend Crops are filling up!

The March weekend crop has been full for a month.  And, I just announced the date for the May weekend crop on Friday and it's already full.  Isn't that crazy.

Don't forget, we also have Super Saturday Crops from 10am-10pm and Friday Night Live Crops from 3pm-Midnight.  In fact, we'll have a Super Saturday on February 16th and a Friday Night Live on April 18th. 

Today I had four people ask to be put on the list for the July weekend crop and I don't even have the date set.  Incredible!  While we will take names and numbers of people who are interested in the July weekend crop, we're NOT guaranteeing any spots.  We'll send out an email and call those who asked to be notified and spots will be filled on a  1st respond / 1st serve basis.

While it's great that our crops are in such demand, it's also stressful because it is SO hard to please everyone.  We're doing are best and we appreciate your business!

Sometimes people call and ask us the strangest questions.  Since we just received one of those calls, I thought I'd share my favorites:

• What do you pay for scrap metal? 
• Do you carry scrapbook albums?
• Do you stock stickers?

Too funny!

Hey everyone --  I'd like your opinions on the weekend crops.

Would you rather have them:

A.  Friday (3pm-Midnight) & Saturday (10am-Midnight) OR
B.  Friday (3pm-Midnight), Saturday (10am-10pm), Sunday (10am-3pm)

Both options are a bit different than what we've done for the past year.  Option A cuts out Sunday entirely.  Option B is the same except we end 2 hours earlier on Saturday!

Please let me know what you think!

Thanks,
Sondra

P.S.  We had one of the BEST weekend crops ever this last weekend.  Everyone was so fun and enthusiastic.  The things people were working on were incredible.  In fact, Cindra's album she made for her dad (a cancer survivor) was so touching; she documented their participation in the Relay for Life in a very special way!

I had a lady ask me yesterday if we accept Michael's and Joanne's % Off Coupons.  I explained that we don't because in order to do so, we'd have to raise our prices as high as theirs.  She was a first time shopper and didn't realize that our prices are generally at least 10% lower than the national chain stores EVERYDAY.  No gimmicks.  No inflated prices.  Just good everyday low prices!!!

Plus, a dollar spent at a locally owned store is usually spent 6 to 15 times before it leaves the community.  From $1, you create $5 to $14 in value within that community.  However, spend $1 at a national chain store and 80% of it leaves town immediately!  (Source:  Tim Mitchell, first cited in E Magazine, article available through the Northwest Earth Institute's Choices for Sustainable Living discussion course book.)

To Our Customers:  "Thank you for supporting Scrapper's Edge, enjoying our everyday low prices and contributing to a sustainable economy within our community."

Last month we were blessed to add 2 people to our team -- Natalie & Kodi.

This month, we added one more -- Saundra.  (Yes, there is now a Sondra and a Saundra!  We'll try our best not to confuse you!)

Well, Natalie, Saundra and I (Sondra) spent the last 2 days re-arranging our "big wall."  For your convenience, we've added new categories:
--Paint & Inks
--Technqiue Tuesday
--Bling
--Flowers
--Decorative Rub-Ons
--Words

Stop by and check it out!  We think you'll find our new organization methods helpful!

--Sondra

I requested that the City put a 12-minute green zone in front of my store to help customers that need to get in and out rather quickly.

On Monday I received a phone call from the City inviting me to their Parking Space Commission meeting, which was yesterday.  (Yes, they actually have a special commission for parking space issues!)

And, they approved my request.  So, in 3 weeks or less, we will have a 12-minute parking space in front of our store, making it easier for our customers to get in and out!

Yipee!  I am SO excited.

Last night's Beginning Scrapbooking Class was a blast!!!  Thank you to everyone who attended -- Donna D, Alexandra, Daniel, Donna B, Connie, Susan & Esmerelda!  Your energy was fabulous.

None of them had ever done a scrapbook page before -- and they each left with such wonderful pages.  I was so impressed with their creativity!!!!

Not only did they enjoy the class and learn how easy & fun it can be to create pages, but it energized me to continue sharing this wonderful hobby with people.  There's nothing as rewarding as sharing scrapbooking with others -- so remember that when you're around people who haven't been bit with the craze yet!!!  Even those who think they're not creative, can benefit from preserving memories in such a special way.

Thanks, again, to the 7 of you in class last nite.  You made my night!

--Sondra

I'm writing this at 9:35 Saturday, May 19th at our 10am-10pm Super Saturday Crop -- and we're having SO much fun!

Have you used the Technique Tuesday white chipboard shapes yet?  They're fabulous.  I used them for the 1st time tonite.  I chalked them, then stamped over them, then inked the edges -- and they're fabulous!  Plus, they're easy to cut using a regular personal paper trimmer.

Another new favorite is the white sharpie markers -- have you used them yet?  Oh my goodness -- it's the only white pen that you shouldn't be without.  They work wonderfully!

The very, very best thing about the crop tonite was first-time Cropper, Connie.  She couldn't believe how fast the 12 hours have gone by.  Every once in a while we hear a squeel from her while she lets us know how many hours we have left!  It's so darn cute.  I love her enthusiasm.

Today was so terrific!  Thanks ladies:  Katrina, Emma, Lynne, Connie, Debbi, Gerrie, Cassie, Dona, Sona & Barbara!

--Sondra

Don't forget --

This Saturday, May 5th, is National Scrapbook Day!

There are a few spaces that just opened up in the Crop.  We need payments by Tuesday for both the Crop and the Classes.

There will be Make & Takes from 10am-Noon.  So far we have planned:
-- Making a Gift Bag from a Brown Paper Bag!
-- Cutting your Name with the Cricut Die Cut Machine!
-- Using a Heidi Swapp Mask to make a 12x12 Page Background!
-- Using a Doodling Template!

If there's any special requests, I'm going to be doing further Make & Take planning tomorrow -- so I'd love to hear your suggestions!!!!!!

See you soon!

Pictured here is me getting the Crop Goody Bags together!  Aren't they cute???


See you soon!

--Sondra

We just had a terrific time at our weekend crop.  However, 2 things came up that I haven't had to encounter before that I'd like everyone's input on.

First, one lady brought a baby rat in a cage and set it on her table for the weekend.  There were ladies who complained, mainly due to their fear of rats. 

Also, someone "babysat" 2 kids for an our or two here in the crop room.  Again, I had complaints.  On person even requested to move to another table due to this.

So, my question is -- should I have a "NO ANIMALS" and "NO KIDS" rule for our crops.  It's never been an issue before. 

I'd appreciate any and all imput.

Have you seen the Doodling Templates from Chatterbox?  They are SO cool!  I'm still not so sure that we can call it doodling if we're actually using a template, but that's another topic all together!  : )

We also have a book called Oodles of Doodles that's been a huge hit.  It sold out in 2 days when we had it in the first time -- we now have more back in!

So, does anyone remember when we scrapbooked 10 years ago and we had to doodle because there wasn't enough cool paper and embellishments to use on our pages?  Well, now it's actually in style!  Maybe our old pages aren't so bad after all!  : )

Happy Doodling!

--Sondra

The new Disney Cricut cartridges just arrived.  I'm so darn excited!  One has shapes and the other has the Disney Font.  They make me want to go to Disney Land so I have an excuse to use them!!!

Also back in stock is Going Places, Opposites Attract, and Alphalicious.  And, we have the actual Cricuts back in stock as well!

Happy Scrappin'

--Sondra

Wow -- what a response -- we're accepting 22 people for our May 5th Crop on National Scrapbook Day -- and we already have 13 ladies signed up!

So, there are 9 spots left -- first come, first serve!  Call right away to reserve your spot!

It's going to be SO much fun!  I ordered the flower-shaped pinata and decorations already and I absolutely cannot wait!  A HUGE thanks goes out to Karin, Jana & Amanda for all their help!!!

We've just finished our plans for National Scrapbook Day, which is Saturday, May 5th.

10am-11am - Kids' Class-- Mini Album Class - $5
Noon-12:30pm- Cardmaking Class - Mother's Day - $5
12:30-1pm-Mini Brag Book Class - $5
1pm-1:15pm-7 Gypsie's Bracelet Class - $10
1:15-2:15pm - Paper Bag Album Class - $8
2:15-3:00pm - Scrapbook Page Class - $8
3:00-3:45pm - Scrapbook Page Class - $8

4pm-Midnight - CROP - $25

For more details on the classes, visit our website at www.ScrappersEdge.net

The Classes & Crop must be pre-registered and paid for by April 28th!  Space is limited so sign up early!

This Saturday, May 24th, will feature another great special -- 15% off Magazines and Books!

(excluding those already on "Clearance")

Stop by Saturday from 10am-4pm and SAVE!!!

Every Saturday (if I remember) we have a Special.  Tomorrow's Special is:
10% OFF Wood-Mounted Rubber Stamps!

Hurry in!  We'll be open 10am-4pm!

March 17th

15% off to Natalie, Nancy, Pam, Jana, Gerrie, Cindra & Cathy J<< MORE >>

Our UPS Driver, Mike, brought 2 big boxes today -- March 14th --  The highlights of the 2nd box are listed below:

-- tags are back in stock -- extra small, small, medium, large - white, ivory & kraft
-- additional Craft Mates Locking Caddys arrived -- the best storage solution for small embellishments!!!
-- Transparent Liquid Beadz  -- (MaryAnn was asking for these -- here at Scrapper's Edge if you ask, you often receive!)
--more Doodlebug silk flowers & posies
--Harley albums
--NEW Making Memories Spring foam stamps & Butterfly grommets

See what "Brown" (aka UPS) does for us?  They bring products to ensure our continued creativity!

-- Just arrived -- March 14th -- 

"Oodles of Doodles" Idea Book (hurry in, we only received 4)
Hardcover Sketcbooks 4x6"
4 New Cardmaking Kits
More Lumiere Acrylic Paints

We're going to have a huge event on National Scrapbook Day, May 5th ---  Make & Takes, Product Demonstrations, Classes, Crops, Special Prize Drawings, and more!  Mark your calendar! 

If you have any ideas for National Scrapbook Day -- like which products you'd like to see demonstrated -- please post your comments here!  We appreciate any and all input!

Monday, March 12th, we recieved the 4 new Basic Grey lines -- Scarlet Letter, Pheobe, Perhaps & Stella.  It's now 2 days later and Scarlet Letter is already gone!  Amazing!  Basic Grey papers are always so popular but I really think they've outdone themselves this time!

What's your favorite line of Basic Grey?

Scrapper's Edge is going to be part of an international event -- Scrap Pink -- September 28 th & 29th.  Among other things, part of the proceeds from the Crop will have will go to Breast Cancer Research!

Stay tuned for more details as the date gets closer!

This is my first entry in the new Scrapper's Edge BLOG!  How exciting!  On our website, I enter the highlights of new products that come in which most customers find helpful.  But, I just wanted to be able to post more -- like great ideas, products that have been out of stock that are back in, special events, etc.  So, here's our blog which will allow us to do that!

Thanks for reading the first entry!