Sometimes it seems there simply aren't enough hours in the day - especially for fun things like scrapping! So this week we're going to showcase projects that you can make in a half hour or less, starting with a layout by Leslie Ashe:

SHE'S MY LIFE by Leslie Ashe

Supplies: Lunch Break Paper (35771) – Ready Set Go, 6x6 Paper Pad (35790)  - Ready Set Go, 5th & Frolic Large Decorative Tags (85599) – Bits, Vellum Stickers (85593) – Details, Cute Overload Puffy Stickers (42253) – Remarks, Ashley (42358) – Remarks, Borders & Phrases Stickers (42265) – Remarks, Accent & Phrase Sticker Book (42266) – Remarks, Feather (85605) – Details, Dear Lizzy Assorted Ribbon (89427) – Premium Ribbon, Today Roller Date Stamp (59220) – Stamps, Chestnut (62612) – Stamp Marker, Black Boho (53423) – Thickers

Pull out your supplies, set your stopwatch, and see what you can whip up in a half hour! We'd love to see what you come up with!

How is everyone doing with their albums?! I can officially say that mine is complete! I go through the 25th so I just finished mine up! I loved sharing my weeks with you and I hope they provided a bit of inspiration as you worked through yours.

The last "page" is our Christmas card that I just punched holes in! 

Supplies: Lighting Department Paper (35855) - Kringle and Co, Merry Mail Room Paper (35858) - Kringle & Co, Santa's Executive Office Paper (35867) - Kringle and Co, Red Suit Tailor Paper (35849) - Kringle and Co, Coal Mine Paper (35856) - Kringle and Co, Kringle Garden Paper (35846) - Kringle and Co, Pinsettia Greenhouse Paper (35850) - Kringle and Co, Daily Black (53388) - Thickers, Jingle Silver (53441) - Thickers, Jingle White (53438) - Thickers, Kringle Crimson (53435) - Thickers, Jingle Crimson (53439) - Thickers, Snowtoes Matte Puffy Stickers (42275) - Remarks, Iceplum Dimensional Stickers (42276) - Remarks, Sugarflake Dimensional Stickers (42278) - Remarks, Hollymint Borders Accent & Phrase Stickers (42272) - Remarks, Nippynose Decorative Layered Tags (85610) - Bits, 5th & Frolic Large Tags (85599) - Bits, Caramel (71045) - Cardstock, Granit (71721) - Cardstock, White (71081) - Cardstock, Foam Dots (61709) - This to That, 5th & Frolic Accent and Phrase Stickers (42266) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Printed Chipboard Shapes (85601) - Embellishments, 5th & Frolic Accent and Phrase Stickers (42265) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Letter Stickers (42267) - Remarks

Feel free to link to your albums in the comments! Thanks for following along with me this month. I hope you enjoyed it!

Wrapping up New Year week is Sophie Crespy with a layout and card:

HEY! 2013 CARD by Sophie Crespy

Supplies: Bowtie Boulevard Paper (35807) - 5th & Frolic, Cozy Court Paper (35814) - 5th & Frolic, Dreamy Drive Paper (35820) - 5th & Frolic, Lovely Lane Paper (35816) - 5th & Frolic, 5th & Frolic Epoxy Brads (85597) - Embellishments, 5th & Frolic Layered Embellishments (85605) - Details, Brown Sugar (AC-GT-96044) - Glitter Tape

MY 2012 LOVE LIST by Sophie Crespy

Supplies: Granite (710721) - Carstock, White (71081) - Cardstock, 6x6 Paper Pad (35841) - Soho Garden, Orchard Street Paper (35828) - Soho Garden, Canal Street Paper (35837) - Soho Garden, Bleeker Street Fabric Stickers (42272) - Remarks, Garment District (85606) - Details, Poppy District Borders, Accents & Phrases (42273) - Remarks, Midtown (42271) - Remarks, Hardcover Sleigh Ride (683091) - Thickers

Thanks for stopping by and have a magical weekend!

Ring in the New Year with a handmade card! Check out this trio of cards with a New Year theme made by Monika Glód:

NEW YEAR CARDS by Monika Glód

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2013 by Monika Glód

Supplies: Boho Gold (53422) - Thickers, Schmutz Letter Stickers (42267) - Remarks, Treasured Terrace Vellum (35822) - 5th & Frolic, Meadow Lark (71756) - POW Glitter Paper, Playtime Plaza Paper (35803) - 5th & Frolic, Oatmeal (71562) - Cardstock, Journal Black ( 53430) - Thickers

NEW YEAR 2013 by Monika Glód

Supplies: Schmutz Letter Stickers (42267) - Remarks, Treasured Terrace Vellum (35822) - 5th & Frolic, Meadow Lark (71756) - POW Glitter Paper, Dreamy Drive Paper (35820) - 5th & Frolic, Cartwheel Court Paper (35806) - 5th & Frolic, Oatmeal (71562) - Cardstock, Stargaze (71569) - Cardstock, Journal Nutmeg (53432) - Thickers

LET'S CELEBRATE 2013 by Monika Glód

Supplies: Schmutz Letter Stickers (42267) - Remarks, Treasured Terrace Vellum (35822) - 5th & Frolic, Meadow Lark (71756) - POW Glitter Paper, Dreamy Drive Paper (35820) - 5th & Frolic, Cartwheel Court Paper (35806) - 5th & Frolic, Oatmeal (71562) - Cardstock, Stargaze (71569) - Cardstock, Fox Gold (53414) - Thickers

 
Naomi Atkins is sure to inspire you with her plethora of New Year projects today!

Short bio: My name is Naomi Atkins, and I'm a wife to a wonderful husband Jonathan and mom to five amazing children: Katlyn, Elise, Everett, Weston, and Camille! I co-own the business Inspired and Enchanted Photography and I love it! It was a big career switch for me; I had spent the last eight years teaching legal research classes at a local college. I love photography so much and Niki and I have so much fun! We have a very unique vintage style and are always on the hunt for new props!

How did you get started scrapbooking? I started scrapbooking about eight years ago and absolutely fell in love! I never really submitted or posted things much because of a lack of time, but I started posting things this last February more on Studio Calico and things took off from there. My first layout to be published was on the cover of Scrapbook Trends in September, so that was awesome! I design for Freckled Fawn, Crate Paper, and the Gossamer Blue Kit Club.

What is your favorite American Crafts product? Thickers, Thickers!! I can never have too many! The best thing about Thickers is that they have JUST ENOUGH stick to them that they can easily be removed, but then they still stick after you remove them! They are amazing!

THANK YOU CARD by Naomi Atkins

I love the Soho Garden layered tags, they make card making a snap! I simply used the layered thank you tag and stitched some of the matching papers around the tag. I then stamped a small leaf onto the lower corner for a little something extra. Make sure to grab a pack of these tags if you are a card maker!!

Supplies: Mercer Street Decorative Tags (85607) - Bits, Grande Street Paper (35830) - Soho Garden, Canal Street Paper (35837) - Soho Garden, Dear Lizzy Acrylic Stamps (59163) - Stamps

ALL THINGS NEW by Naomi Atkins

I love this picture, right after the rain, and the fresh new smell and feel to the air. The water drops were still visible and the sun came out and I was able to catch a small rainbow in one of the drops. I used "POW" paper and cut out "New" from the Silhouette. The POW glitter paper is awesome for die cutting! I also die cut the petal backround and filled it with bits of paper and a few buttons and brads.

Supplies: Lounge Paper (35786) - Ready Set Go, Prime Time Paper (35769) - Ready Set Go, Laughter Lane Paper (35786) - 5th & Frolic, Grande Street Paper (35830) - Soho Garden, Park Avenue Paper (35834) - Soho Garden, 6th and Maple Paper (35809) - 5th & Frolic, Meadowlark (71756) - POW, Field House Paper Leaves (85592) - House, 5th & Frolic Decorative Flowers (77292) - Flower Shoppe, 5th & Frolic Acrylic Stamps (59163) - Stamps, 5th & Frolic Decorative Brads and Buttons (85598) - Elements, Daily Moss (53390) - Thickers, Weekender Truffle (53395) - Thickers

COOKIE LOVE by Naomi Atkins

I like to make "resolutions" at the beginning of the year, but the one thing that ALWAYS derails me in my healthy eating initiatives is chocolate chip cookies. Now my daughter bakes them all the time and I had to photograph a pile of freshly bakes ones and state that maybe "resolution" might be a bit strong of a word when it comes to cookies. The 5th & Frolic line fit perfectly to keep the muted colors and the focus on the cookies. I also used a variety of Thickers on top of the 5th & Frolic large tags. I then splattered some Mr. Huey's in white - it kind of reminds me of drops of milk!!

Supplies: 6th and Maple Paper (35809) - 5th & Frolic, Memory Lane Paper (35802) - 5th & Frolic, Extraordinary Avenue Paper (35818) - 5th & Frolic, Foxy Fairview Paper (35805) - 5th & Frolic, Sweet Street Paper (35845) - 5th & Frolic, Simplicity Circle Paper (35801) - 5th & Frolic, 5th & Frolic Large Tags (85599) - Bits, 5th & Frolic Fabric and Epoxy Brads (85597) - Embellishments, 5th & Frolic Roller Date Stamp (59162) - Stamps, 5th & Frolic Chipboard Shapes (85601) - Bits, Fox River Rock (53416) - Thickers, Fox White (53415) - Thickers, Everyday White (53392) - Thickers

A JOURNEY OF 1,000 MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP. by Naomi Atkins

I've always loved this quote by Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu and when I saw this photo of my daughter walking up our lane, I knew I had to use it! I can't wait to see what the New Year brings! I love chevron so I used the wood chevron paper for the backround then imitated the pattern with strips of paper and stitching at the bottom. I used Kinsey Wilson's chevron cut file to make it much easier! I cut the title out of my Silhouette and used Thickers as well.

Supplies: Charmed Paper (35780) - Ready Set Go, Coffee Break Paper (35678) - Ready Set Go, Nolita Paper (35835) - Soho Garden, Greenwich Village Paper (35838) - Soho Garden, Field House Paper Leaves (85592) - House, Midtown (42271) - Remarks, Metal Disc Mix (85590) - Flair, Prairie Kraft (732125) - Thickers

I wanted to make a grid of photographs indicating my goals for the year then I cut the little banners out of my Silhouette and used the positive and negative spaces, mixed up. I love the Soho Garden fabric stickers so I used those for the bases of the little black letters. I also love the bold vibrant colors of the collection to make a statement about the start of 2013 and what I'm going to aim for this year!

Supplies: Canal Street Paper (35837) - Soho Garden, Greenwhich Village Paper (35838) - Soho Garden, Grande Street Paper (84057) - Soho Garden, High Line Park Paper (35831) - Soho Garden, Nolita Paper (35835) - Soho Garden, Poppy District (42273) - Remarks, Mayfair Layered Stickers (85606) - Remarks, Bleeker St. Fabric Stickers (42272) - Remarks, Soho Garden Ribbon (89429) - Premium Ribbon, Daily Black (53388) - Thickers

Naomi has a stunning blog, make sure to stop by and say hi!

These family friendly New Year countdown bags were made by Jill Cornell and she's going to show us in a step-by-step tutorial how to make them for your own family!

NEW YEAR COUNTDOWN BAGS by Jill Cornell

Supplies: Pretty Parkway Paper (35800) - 5th & Frolic, Storytime Street Paper (35804) - 5th & Frolic, Cartwheel Court Paper (35806) - 5th & Frolic, Bowtie Boulevard Paper (35807) - 5th & Frolic, Little Moments Lane Paper (35808) - 5th & Frolic, Lark Lane Paper (35811) - 5th & Frolic, Dreamy Drive Paper (35820) - 5th & Frolic, Laughter Lane Paper (35821) - 5th & Frolic, Treasured Terrace Paper (35822) - 5th & Frolic, 5th & Frolic Printed Variety Tags (85599) - Bits, 5th & Frolic Scallop (93628) - Flutterbys, 5th & Frolic Pennant (93629) - Flutterbys, Fox Gold (53414) - Thickers, 5th & Frolic Ribbon Value 24 Pack (89427) - Premium Ribbon

1) Cut a piece of patterned paper to fit the front of a glassine or paper bag. Cut a strip of gold polka dot vellum and adhere it to the top of the bag. Cut 3-5 pieces of the stitched triangle or scallop banner Flutterbys and adhere them below the patterned paper.

2) Cut out a Polaroid from patterned paper and edge it with gold ink. Add Thickers numbers to the Polaroid then adhere it to the bag with foam adhesive.

3) Punch confetti from patterned paper and cardstock.

4) Add sequins to the confetti pile (a little confetti goes a long way!).

5) Place the confetti in the bag. Add patterned paper or cardstock to a tag with removable adhesive (this way you can reuse the tags on another project). Add a family activity to the tag. Tie ribbon in bow on top.

6) Place the tag in the bag and fold the top over. Punch two holes through the top of the bag and tie ribbon through in a bow.

7) Create as many bags and you want for your countdown and enjoy opening them up every hour!

Thanks for the fun, easy, and fabulous tutorial Jill!

Merry Christmas to you and yours from American Crafts!

With a New Year just a couple weeks away, we want to give you plenty of time to prep for this event and then give you some ideas of how to scrap your photos afterwards! Michiko Kato celebrates New Year Week with a layout and card:

HAPPY LITTLE LIFE by Michiko Kato

Supplies: Laughter Lane Paper (35821) - 5th & Frolic, Pretty Parkway Paper (35800) - 5th & Frolic, 5th & Frolic Accents & Phrases Stickers (42266) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Accents & Phrases Stickers (42265) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Fabric & Epoxy Brads (85597) - Embellishments

2013 by Michiko Kato

Supplies: 5th & Frolic Large Decorative Tags (85599) - Bits, 5th & Frolic Cardstock Die Cut Shapes (85600) - Bits, Treasured Terrace Vellum (35822) - 5th & Frolic, 6th & Main Paper (35819) - 5th & Frolic, Blossom Boulevard Paper (35844) - 5th & Frolic, Little Moments Lane Paper (35808) - 5th & Frolic, Sweet Street Paper (35845) - 5th & Frolic, Schmutz Letter Stickers (42267) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Fabric & Epoxy Brads (85597) - Elements, 5th & Frolic Accents & Phrases Stickers (42266) - Remarks, Everyday White (53392) - Thickers, Kringle and Co Value Ribbon 24 Pack (89430) - Premium Ribbon

We are almost there! Well, almost there if you stop at the 25th like I do. I hope you all are enjoying the process of forming your albums. Sometimes it can seem like a burden but it's so worth it when my kids pull out those albums again and again. They really love the smaller size of a mini album. This week I again mixed some 5th & Frolic with my Kringle and Co for some holiday as well as everyday moments.

Supplies:  Lighting Department Paper (35855) - Kringle and Co, Merry Mail Room Paper (35858) - Kringle and Co, Santa's Executive Office Paper (35867) - Kringle and Co, Red Suit Tailor Paper (35849) - Kringle and Co, Coal Mine Paper (35856) - Kringle and Co, Kringle Garden Paper (35846) - Kringle and Co, Pinsettia Greenhouse Paper (35850) - Kringle and Co,  Daily Black (53388) - Thickers, Jingle Silver (53441) - Thickers, Jingle White (53438) - Thickers, Kringle Crimson (53435) - Thickers, Jingle Crimson (53439) - Thickers, Snowtoes Matte Puffy Stickers (42275) - Remarks, Iceplum Dimensional Stickers (42276) - Remarks, Sugarflake Dimensional Stickers (42278) - Remarks, Hollymint Borders Accent & Phrase Stickers (42272) - Remarks, Nippynose Decorative Layered Tags (85610) - Bits, 5th & Frolic Large Tags (85599) - Bits, Caramel (71045) - Cardstock, Granit (71721) - Cardstock, White (71081) - Cardstock, Foam Dots (61709) - This to That, 5th & Frolic Accent and Phrase Stickers (42266) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Printed Chipboard Shapes (85601) - Bits, 5th & Frolic Accent and Phrase Stickers (42265) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Letter Stickers (42267) - Remarks

How are your albums coming along? Anyone put them all together at the end of December?

Congrats to the randomly selected winner, or rather, winnerS of her favorite current line, Charlotte Brochu and Lisa L. ( Lisa's Creative Niche):

Paige Evans and Patricia Roebuck finish Christmas week with a trio of festive layouts:

MERRY CHRISTMAS 2012 by Paige Evans

Supplies: Kringle and Co (35872) - Collection Pack, 6x6 Paper Pad (35843) - Kringle and Co, Kringle Crimson (53435) - Thickers, Holiberry (85611) - Bits, Snowtoes (42275) - Remarks, Hollymint (42274) - Remarks, Photo Op (96731) - Roller Date Stamp, .03 Black (62311) - Precision Pen, Dot Glue Runner (61713) - This to That; Other: Cameo by Silhouette, Ornament cut file: Artisan Pattern by Sophie Gallo, Design ID #19426

NAUGHTY OR NICE by Patricia Roebuck

Supplies: Accounting Paper (35869) - Kringle and Co, Beard Barber Shop Paper (35847) - Kringle and Co, Sleigh Shop Paper (35859) - Kringle and Co, Coal Mine Paper (35856) - Kringle and Co, Moss (AM710-54) - Cardstock, Cricket (AM710-60) - Cardstock, Hollymint Accents & Phrase Stickers (42274) - Remarks, Christmas Ribbon Spools (89430) - Premium Ribbon, Ivyfrost Fabric Stickers (42277) - Remarks, Mistlebow Acrylic Stamps (59167) - Stamps, Sugarflake Dimensional Stickers (42278) - Remarks, Cricket Embossing Powder (27142) - Zing!, Kringle Pine (53436) - Thickers, Holiberry Die Cut Cardstock Shapes (85611) - Bits, Foam Dots (61709) - This to That, Adhesive Dispenser (AM617-11) - This to That

SHINE by Patricia Roebuck

Supplies: Gift Wrapping Room Paper (35860) - Kringle and Co, Knittery Paper (35868) - Kringle and Co, Beard Barber Shop Paper (35847) - Kringle and Co, Reindeer Runway Paper (35857) - Kringle and Co, Chestnut (71048) - Cardstock, Hollymint Accents & Phrase Stickers(42274) - Remarks, Christmas Ribbon Spools (89430) - Premium Ribbon, Ivyfrost (42277) - Kringle and Co, Mistlebow (59167) - Acrylic Stamps, Jingle Moss (53440) - Thickers, Snowtoes Matte Puffy Accents (42275) - Remarks, Aqua Embossing Powder (27143) - Zing!, Foam Dots (61709) - This to That, Adhesive Dispenser (AM617-11) - This to That

Have a wonderful, happy, and fun-filled weekend!

Erin Stewart is the creator of these three magical Christmas cards and Kimberly Neddo is the creator of this cute gift card holder:

MERRY CHRISTMAS CARD by Erin Stewart

WISHING YOU A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS CARD by Erin Stewart

MERRY CHRISTMAS CARD by Erin Stewart

Supplies: Kringle and Co Value 18 Glitter Ribbon Pack (89431) - Premium Ribbon, Kringle and Co Value 24 Ribbon Pack (89430) - Premium Ribbon, Holiberry (85611) - Bits, Mistlebow (59167) - Clear Stamps, Sugarflake Dimensional Banner Phrases (42278) - Remarks, Ivyfrost Fabric Stickers (42277) - Remarks, Snowtoes Mini Puffy Stickers (42275) - Remarks, Lighting Department Paper (35855) - Kringle and Co, Reindeer Runway Paper (35857) - Kringle and Co, Merry Mail Room Paper (35858) - Kringle and Co, Shipping Department Paper (35862) - Kringle and Co, Elf Quarters Paper (35861) - Kringle and Co, Knittery Paper (35868) - Kringle and Co, Accounting Paper (35869) - Kringle and Co, Beard Barber Shop Paper (35847) - Kringle and Co

For these Card Holders, I cut a piece of paper 4 inches wide by 9 inches long. Then I used my scoring blade and lengthwise scored at 3 1/2 inches and at 7 inches and fold over. If you want to tie it all together with string, or ribbon like I did, you can either cut slices or punch a couple of holes so you can weave the ribbon/string through it. I used some photo corners to hold the cards on the inside, but you can use another piece of scrap paper and create a pocket too. Once you have that part done, you can start decorating with some fun embellishments to give yours just the right finishing touches. Have fun!

Supplies: Beard Barber Shop Paper (35847) - Kringle and Co, Accounting Paper (35869) - Kringle and Co, Sleigh Shop Paper (35859) - Kringle and Co, Santa's Executive Office Paper (35867) - Kringle and Co, Holiberry (85611) - Bits, Mistletoe (59167) - Clear Stamps

The two winners of her current favorite line will be chosen tomorrow so make sure you've scrolled down to Monday's intro to the theme of the week post to enter!

We want to welcome former American Crafts Design Team member Suzy Plantamura as our Christmas Week Guest Designer!

Short bio: Suzy Plantamura has been in the scrapbooking industry for over 10 years working for different manufacturers and Creating Keepsakes magazine. She recently got named as a Studio Calico Project Life Design Team member. She loves to doodling inspirational quotes and working on project life. She lives in sunny Southern California with her husband, three kids, and two doggies.

How did you get started scrapbooking? I have always scrapbooked in one form or another. I made some in high school, but they didn’t have photos. It just evolved over time to what it is today – a creative outlet as well as memory preservation.

What is your favorite American Crafts product? Thickers. I have so many packages I could never use them even if I wallpapered my house with them! They are just perfect for titles on every layout.

PEACE JOY LOVE by Suzy Plantamura

All three of my layouts follow a similar design/sketch. This layout shows highlighting one large photo with lots of paper and ribbon strips used to frame it. The teal color in the Kringle and Co line that I used as my background mixes so nicely with all of the traditional Christmas colors.

Supplies: Reindeer Runway Paper (35857) - Kringle and Co, Gift Wrapping Room Paper (35860) - Kringle and Co, Knittery Paper (35868) - Kringle and Co, Poinsettia Greenhouse Paper (35850) - Kringle and Co, Merry Mail Room Paper (35858) - Kringle and Co, 6x6 Paper Pad (35873) - Kringle and C., Snowtoes Accents (42275) - Remarks, Kringle Crimson (53435) - Thickers, Holiberry Die Cut Shapes (85611) - Bits, Hollymint Border, Accent, Phrase 2 Stickers (42274) - Remarks, Treasured Terrace Vellum (35822) - 5th & Frolic, 5th & Frolic Wood Buttons and Epoxy Accents (78073) - Elements

ENVELOPE TAGS by Suzy Plantamura

I loved the set of advent tags in this line, but I wanted to think of another way to use them. I covered the numbers on them with a round sticker and then punched a scalloped border to go around the edges using the papers. You can tuck a note or one of the cute die cut tags into the pocket to attach to your Christmas gifts with the beautiful ribbons included in this collection.

Supplies: Assembly Line Paper (35866) - Kringle and Co, 6x6 Paper Pad (35873) - Kringle and Co, Kringle adn Co Premium Ribbon Value Pack (89430) - Ribbon, Nippynose Number Envelope Tags (85610) - Bits, Holiberry Die Cut Shapes (85611) - Bits

A NEW iPOD by Suzy Plantamura

On this layout, I used a strip of photos with a white border to resemble a photobooth strip, although mine runs horizontal. The design is similar to the first layout, but I added glittery gold to give it more pizzazz. The gold dot vellum is cut from the inside of the piece used on the first layout – no reason to hide pretty paper under a photo!

Supplies: Reindeer Training Paper (35853) - Kringle and Co, Merry Mail Room Paper (35858) - Kringle and Co, Gift Wrapping Room Paper (35860) - Kringle and Co, Accounting Paper (35869) - Kringle and Co, Treasured Terrace Vellum (35822) - 5th & Frolic, Kringle and Co Value Pack Premium Ribbon (89430) - Ribbon, Nippynose Decorative Envelope Tags (85610) - Bits, Holiberry Die Cut Shapes (85611) - Bits, Snowtoes Accents (42275) - Remarks, Ivyfrost Fabric Stickers (42277) - Remarks, Hollymint Border, Accent, Phrase 2 Stickers (42274) – Remarks, Fox Gold (53414) - Thickers, 5th & Frolic Burlap and Fabric Bows (85602) - Embellishments, Decorative Glitter Flowers (77292) - Flower Shoppe, Dear Lizzy Neapolitan Carded Ribbon (58805) - Premium Ribbon

MERRY CHRISTMAS CARD by Suzy Plantamura

This card was made using a piece of double-sided paper with the paper strip showing along the bottom edge. I decorated the die cut wreath using glitter glue over all the berries which really dresses it up.

Supplies: Coal Mine Paper (35856) - Kringle and Co, Sugarflake Banner Phrases (42278) - Remarks, Iceplum Snowflakes (42276) - Remarks, Holiberry Die Cut Shapes (85611) - Bits, Kringle and Co Premium Ribbon Value Pack (89430) - Ribbon

ICY COLD SKATING by Suzy Plantamura

For my third layout, I used four 4x6 photos that are cropped and slightly overlapped so they all fit. I mixed different styles and colors of Thickers for an interesting title and used glitter over the die cut snowflakes to add sparkle.

Supplies: Kringle Garden Paper (35846) - Kringle and Co, Accounting Paper (35869) - Kringle and Co, Santa’s Executive Office Paper (35867) - Kringle and Co, Gift Wrapping Room Paper (35860) - Kringle and Co, Lark Lane Paper (35811) - 5th & Frolic, Extraordinary Avenue Paper (35818) - 5th & Frolic, 6th and Main Paper (35819) - 5th & Frolic, 6x6 Paper Pad (35873) - Kringle and Co, Sugarflake Banner Phrases (42278) - Remarks, Holiberry Die Cut Shapes (85611) - Bits, Iceplum Snowflakes (42276) - Remarks, Kringle Black (53434) - Thickers, Kringle Fountain (53437) - Thickers, Jingle Crimson (53439) - Thickers, Jingle Silver (53441) - Thickers, Kringle and Co Value Pack Premium Ribbon (89430) - Ribbon, Ivyfrost Fabric Stickers (42277) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Fabric and Epoxy Brads (85597) - Elements

Becky Williams made this adorable Christmas-y frame and she's going to show us step-by-step how to create one of your own!

KEEP CALM AND JINGLE ALL THE WAY FRAME by Becky Williams

Supplies: Gift Wrapping Room Paper (35860) - Kringle and Co, Woodshop Paper (35865) - Kringle and Co, Christmas (89430) - Ribbon, Iceplum Snowflakes Dimensional Stickers (42276) - Remarks, Holiberry Die Ccut Cardstock Shapes (85611) - Bits, Rocky Road (71516) - POW Glitter Paper, Evergreen (71514) - POW Glitter Paper, Moss Jingle (53440) - Thickers, Crimson Jingle (53439) - Thickers, Fox River Rock (53416) - Thickers, Boho Black (53423) - Thickers

"When I got this assignment I knew right away what I would do. I've seen so many "Stay Calm" posters around on Pinterest and other places and thought it would be fun to create one for Christmas. It was a relatively quick and easy project, which is perfect for me during the holiday season when there isn't a lot of time for crafting."

1. Find an old frame that you have hanging around at home or purchase one in the size you'd like to alter. This frame was one that used to hang in our baby's room but we've since updated some of the decorations.

2. Gather supplies. I used the Kringle and Co collection along with some POW glitter paper and other embellishments from the Kringle and Co line. Cut out die cut shapes that you'd like to use to accent your wall art. I cut the word "jingle" on my Silhouette Cameo and didn't end up using the stars on my finished project.

3. Using the frame as a guide, cut patterned paper for the background, accents from patterned paper, and place letter stickers for your desired sentiment.

4. Embellish the frame using your desired supplies. I used some baker's twine from the Kringle and Co line along with some paper scraps and a die cut from the same collection.

5. Embellish your frame once the wording and background are complete. I used the white glitter snowflakes from the Kringle and Co line and they worked perfectly to add just a little something to the frame.

6. The finished project took less than an hour to complete from start to finish and would make a great gift for someone else (or yourself - I am keeping this one!)

Just like the frame says: Keep calm and jingle all the way!

We have something exciting to announce and giveaway today! Northridge Publishing recently released Kelly Purkey’s new Signature Series book and we want to give away TWO copies! We are thrilled to see the creative new ways that Kelly incorporates American Crafts products into her projects. Her signature style and talent practically leap off the pages!

This inspiration-filled book could make a wonderful gift to your loved ones or yourself! The deadline to enter is Wednesday, December 19 at 11:59 p.m. EST. We will select two winners at random and announce them Thursday morning!

Christmas is only 9 days away! Are the stockings hung by the chimney with care? This week our Design Team will celebrate this holiday and showcase layouts, cards, and projects with a Christmas theme! Jen Chesnick made a pair of Christmas layouts using pictures of her oh-so-cute daughter:

SANTA'S COMING by Jen Chesnick

Supplies: Poinsettia Greenhouse Paper (35850) - Kringle & Co, Pine Tree Nursery Paper (35851) - Kringle & Co, Woodshop Paper (35865) - Kringle & Co, Snowtoes (42275) - Remarks, Ivyfrost (42277) - Remarks, Sugarflake (42278) - Remarks, Holiberry (85611) - Bits, Christmas Cardstock Pack (71257) - Cardstock

DO NOT OPEN TILL CHRISTMAS by Jen Chesnick

Supplies: Wreath Factory Paper (35852) - Kringle & Co, Holiberry (85611) - Bits, Snowtoes (42275) - Remarks,Treasured Terrace Vellum Paper (35822) - 5th & Frolic, Fox Gold (53414) - Thickers, Kraft (71464) - Cardstock

In the spirit of giving, we want to give two lucky readers the current line of her choosing!

Leave a comment on this post by Friday December 21st 2012 letting us know what you're asking Santa for for Christmas and we'll randomly select TWO winners to receive her favorite current line. The winners will be announced Friday. Good luck to all!

And just like that we are down another week in December! Just like previous years I seem to get SO busy this time of the month so my pages become a bit more simplified. I like the change and I love that I am still documenting it! I like little bits of everyday life in my December album because that's just how it is around here. Somedays we do nothing related to the holidays so every day moments it is!

Supplies:  Lighting Department Paper (35855) - Kringle and Co, Merry Mail Room Paper (35858) - Kringle and Co, Santa's Executive Office Paper (35867) - Kringle and Co, Red Suit Tailor Paper (35849) - Kringle and Co, Coal Mine Paper (35856) - Kringle and Co, Kringle Garden Paper (35846) - Kringle and Co, Pinsettia Greenhouse Paper (35850) - Kringle and Co, Daily Black (53388) - Thickers, Jingle Silver (53441) - Thickers, Jingle White (53438) - Thickers, Kringle Crimson (53435) - Thickers, Jingle Crimson (53439) - Thickers, Snowtoes Matte Puffy Stickers (42275) - Remarks, Iceplum Dimensional Stickers (42276) - Remarks, Sugarflake Dimensional Stickers (42278) - Remarks, Hollymint Borders Accent & Phrase Stickers (42272) - Remarks, Nippynose Decorative Layered Tags (85610) - Bits, 5th & Frolic Large Tags (85599) - Bits, Caramel (71045) - Cardstock, Granite (71721) - Cardstock, White (71081) - Cardstock, Foam Dots (61709) - This to That, 5th & Frolic Accent and Phrase Stickers (42266) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Printed Chipboard Shapes (85601) - Bits, 5th & Frolic Accent and Phrase Stickers (42265) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Letter Stickers (42267) - Remarks, Kringle Fountain (53437) - Thickers

This week I added quite a bit from 5th & Frolic to go along with my non-holidayish photos. I love that I can mix different lines together and they still look great! How are you coming along?!

Finishing up Ornaments Week is Heather Leopard with three more simple and fun creations:

ORNAMENTS by Heather Leopard

Supplies: Beard Barber Shop Paper (35847) - Kringle and Co, Reindeer Training Paper (35853) - Kringle and Co, Peppermint Parlor Paper (35863) - Kringle and Co, Kringle Garden Paper (35846) - Kringle and Co, Kringle and Co Value 24 Ribbon Pack (89430), Kringle and Co Glitter Ribbon (89431) - Premium Ribbon

The festivities continue next week! See you Monday!

These three amazing paper ornaments were made by Carina Lindholm:

ORNAMENT by Carina Lindholm
 
Supplies: Sleigh Shop Paper (35859) - Kringle and Co, Peppermint Parlor Paper (35863) - Kringle and Co, Hollymint (42274) - Remarks, Iceplum (42276) - Remarks, Kringle and Co Value Ribbon Pack (89430) - Premium Ribbon
 

ORNAMENT by Carina Lindholm
 
Supplies: Woodshop Paper (35865) - Kringle and Co, Iceplum (42276) - Remarks, Snowtoes (42275) - Remarks, Kringle and Co Value Ribbon Pack ( 89430) - Premium Ribbon
 

ORNAMENT by Carina Lindholm
 
Supplies: Mustard (71036) - Cardstock, Poinsettia Greenhouse Paper (35850) - Kringle and Co, Shipping Department Paper (35862) - Kringle and Co, Woodshop Paper (35865) - Kringle and Co, Snowtoes (42275) - Remarks, Kringle and Co Value Ribbon Pack (89430) - Premium Ribbon

A final post filled with ornaments is coming up tomorrow! Make sure you've entered the giveaway on Monday's post for a chance to win the entire Kringle and Co line!

Leah Farquharson has made a beautiful trio of trendy-colored ornaments embellished with lovely scrapbook supplies for today's enjoyment and inspiration:

ALTERED ORNAMENTS by Leah Farquharson

Supplies: 6x6 Paper Pad (35827) - 5th & Frolic, Fox River Rock (53416) - Thickers, Fox Gold (53414) - Thickers, 5th & Frolic Accents & Stickers (42266) - Remarks Books, 5th & Frolic Borders, Accents & Phrases Sticker Sheet (42265) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Leaf & Feather (85605) - Details, 5th & Frolic Fabric & Epoxy Brads (85597) - Embellishments, 5th & Frolic Printed Chipboard Shapes (85601) - Embellishments, 5th & Frolic Burlap Bows (85602) - Embellishments, 5th & Frolic Paper Flowers (77292) - Flower Shoppe, 5th & Frolic Value Ribbon 24 Pack (89427) - Premium Ribbon, Kringle and Co Value Ribbon 24 Pack (89430) - Premium Ribbon; Other supplies: plain glass ball ornaments, pearl paints, feathers

Three more ornaments are in store for tomorrow!

Andrea Budjack shows us in a step-by-step photo tutorial how to make this fun and fabulous ornament today:

MERRY CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT by Andrea Budjack

Supplies: Wreath Factory Paper (35852) - Kringle and Co, Sleigh Shop Paper (35859) - Kringle and Co, Reindeer Training Paper (35853) - Kringle and Co, Mistlebow (59167) - Acrylic Stamps, Kringle and Co Ribbon Value Pack (89430) - Premium Ribbon

1. Use a variety of chipboard pieces to create your ornament/tag. Cover each piece with cardstock or paper and trim the excess. Stitch over it to add texture.

2. Stamp a tree and "Merry Christmas" sentiment onto cardstock and cut them out. Add glitter to the tree and adhere it to the ornament first. Adhere the sentiment on top. Add adhesive pearls to embellish.

3. Punch a hole in top of the ornament and tie ribbon through. Add buttons on top of the bows. Punch a hole in the bottom of the ornament for adding a jewel, bell, etc.

Easy as pie!

We've teamed up with PaperCraft Inspirations for a Christmas Blog Party! Make sure to hop on over to the PaperCraft Inspirations Blog to check out all of the fabulous creations that we have made and also enter to win one of FIVE amazing bundles from American Crafts on their website!

There's still time to deck the halls and spice up your Christmas tree! This week we'll be showing off handmade ornaments, beginning with a trio of lovely paper ornaments by the talented Leslie Ashe:

MERRY CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT by Leslie Ashe

Supplies: Reindeer Training Paper (35853) – Kringle and Co, Accounting Paper (35869) – Kringle and Co, Sleigh Shop Paper (35859) – Kringle and Co, Lighting Department Paper (35855) – Kringle and Co, Pine Tree Nursery Paper (35851) – Kringle and Co, Elf Quarters Paper (35861) – Kringle and Co, Red Suit Tailor Paper (35849) – Kringle and Co, Candy Cane Forest Paper (35854) – Kringle and Co, Snow Toes (42275) – Remarks, Holiberry (85611) – Bits, Silver Jingle (53441) – Thickers, Kringle and Co Assorted Ribbon (89430) – Premium Ribbon

MR. SNOWMAN ORNAMENT by Leslie Ashe

Supplies: Snowflake Factory Paper (35864) – Kringle and Co, Kringle Garden Paper (35846) – Kringle and Co, Hollymint (42274) – Remarks, Ice plum (42276) – Remarks, Snow Toes (42275) – Remarks, Nippy Nose (85610) – Bits, Kringle and Co Assorted Ribbon (89430) – Premium Ribbon

MERRY MERRY ORNAMENT by Leslie Ashe

Supplies: Black (71082) – Cardstock, Coal Mine Paper (35856) – Kringle and Co, Beard Barber Shop Paper (35847) – Kringle and Co, Autumn (42296) – Remarks, Snow Toes (42275) – Remarks, Gold Fox (53414) – Thickers, Kringle and Co Assorted Ribbon (89430) – Premium Ribbon

To help with your handmade ornaments, we're giving away the entire Kringle and Co line to one lucky winner! Leave a comment on this post by Friday December 14th 2012 letting us know what your favorite kind of Christmas tree is and we'll randomly select the winner and announce them on Friday! Good luck!

1 week down! How did everyone do this week? Did you complete all your pages up until today? Are you doing them all at once? I tried to do pages here and there but I mostly assembled this week in one day. The printing of the photos always seems to slow me down! I like to keep my pages simple but fun.

I'm loving the Nippynose Decorative Layered Tags for putting in little bits of ephemera or journaling! Here's what I have so far:

Supplies: Lighting Department Paper (35855) - Kringle and Co, Merry Mail Room Paper (35858) - Kringle and Co, Santa's Executive Office Paper (35867) - Kringle and Co, Red Suit Tailor Paper (35849) - Kringle and Co, Coal Mine Paper (35856) - Kringle and Co, Kringle Garden Paper (35846) - Kringle and Co, Pinsettia Greenhouse Paper (35850) - Kringle and Co,  Daily Black (53388) - Thickers, Jingle Silver (53441) - Thickers, Jingle White (53438) - Thickers, Kringle Crimson (53435) - Thickers, Jingle Crimson (53439) - Thickers, Snowtoes Matte Puffy Stickers (42275) - Remarks, Iceplum Dimensional Stickers (42276) - Remarks, Sugarflake Dimensional Stickers (42278) - Remarks, Hollymint Borders Accents & Phrase Stickers (42272) - Remarks, Nippynose Decorative Layered Tags (85610) - Bits, 5th & Frolic Large Tags (85599) - Bits, Caramel (71045) - Cardstock, Granit (71721) - Cardstock, White (71081) - Cardstock, Foam Dots (61709) - This to That

I'd love to see how your albums are coming along!

Melissa Mann's large photo layouts will leave you inspired!

ONE OF MY FAVORITE PEOPLE by Melissa Mann

Supplies: Seafoam (71566) - Cardstock, Treasured Terrace Paper (35822) - 5th & Frolic, 6th & Main Paper (35819) - 5th & Frolic, 5th & Frolic Die Cut Cardstock Shapes (85600) - Bits, 5th & Frolic Large Tags (85599) - Bits, Fox Gold Glitter (53414) - Thickers, Splendid White(53295) - Thickers, Scene Silver Glitter (53340) - Thickers, 5th & Frolic Letter Stickers (42267) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Leaf & Feather (85605) - Details, 5th & Frolic Accent & Phrase Stickers (42265) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Accent & Phrase Stickers (42266) - Remarks

SWEET LITTLE GIRL by Melissa Mann

Supplies: Concrete (71474) - Cardstock, Bowtie Boulevard Paper (35807) - 5th & Frolic, 6th & Main Paper (35819) - 5th & Frolic, Memory Lane Paper (35602) - 5th & Frolic, Laughter Lane Paper (35821) - 5th & Frolic, Meadowlark Paper (71756) - 5th & Frolic, Treasured Terrace Paper (35822) - 5th & Frolic, Cartwheel Court Paper (35806) - 5th & Frolic, Fox River Rock (53416) - Thickers, 5th & Frolic Accent & Phrase Stickers (42266) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Decorative Flowers (77292) - Flower Shoppe, Serendipity White (53291) - Thickers, 5th & Frolic Accent & Phrase Stickers (42265) - Remarks

Have a wonderful Friday and upcoming weekend! See you back here bright and early Monday morn'!

Here is another large photo layout made by Angie Gutshall:

TOGETHER by Angie Gutshall

Supplies: Mustard (71036) - Cardstock, Greenwich Village Paper (35838) - Soho Garden, Canal Street Paper (35837) - Soho Garden, West Broadway Paper (35839) - Soho Garden, Park Avenue Paper (35834) - Soho Garden, Orchard Street Paper (35828) - Soho Garden, Soho Black (53423) - Thickers, Hudson Square Die Cut Shapes (85608) - Bits, Bleecker Street Fabric Stickers (42272) - Remarks, Mercer Street Layered Tags (85607) - Bits, Midtown Layered Chipboard Stickers (42271) - Remarks, Mayfair Layered Embellishments (85606) - Details, Soho Garden (89429) - Ribbon

Large Photos Week finished up tomorrow with a final pair of layouts!

Our Large Photos Guest Designer is the fabulous Megan Klauer!

Short bio: Hi, I'm Megan Klauer! Being a mom of 3, I love to escape to the world of creating and scrapbooking as often as possible. It's as much about relaxing and being creative as it is about capturing and sharing those stories for future generations. I strive to journal on my layouts as much as I can; even if it's just a short sentence or two. I work full time as the secretary of our family business and have my own photography business which keeps my weekends busy. When I find the time, I love to hunt and fish; anything to spend time outdoors with my family.

How did you get started scrapbooking? I've always loved art and drawing. It was my favorite subject in school. When I was pregnant with my oldest son (11 years ago) I went to an in-home scrapbooking party and have been hooked ever since!

What is your favorite American Crafts product? Oh, most defiantly Thickers. The variety and textures available provide endless creative opportunities.

LIFE ON THE FARM by Megan Klauer

This was one of those everyday moments that needed to be blown up to an oversized photo. The Ready Set Go collection translated from "city/travel" to "country" perfectly.

Supplies: Crawfish (710724) - Cardstock, Globetrotter Paper (35772) - Ready Set Go, Coffee Break Paper (35768) - Ready Set Go, Primetime Paper (35769) - Ready Set Go, Afternoon Delight Paper (35763) - Ready Set Go, Daily Crawfish (53389) - Thickers, Everyday Indigo (53391) - Thickers, Cute Overload Puffy Stickers (42253) - Remarks, Sure Thing Dimensional Stickers (42255) - Remarks, Oh Yes Fabric Stickers (42256) - Remarks, Photo Op Roller Date Stamp (96731) - Stamps, Vellum Stickers (85593) - Details, Baxter Pink & Yellow Letter Stickers (42257) - Remarks, True Story Paper (35775) - Ready Set Go, Delighted Accents & Phrases (42252) - Remarks, .05 Point Black (62321) - Precision Pen, Dispenser Tabs Adhesive (61712) - This to That

HELLO by Megan Klauer

I changed it up a bit with this sassy photo of my daughter by printing it directly onto white cardstock. It adds a fun element of texture to the page.

Supplies: White (71259) - Cardstock, Turf (710567) - Cardstock, Kraft (710464) - Cardstock, 5th & Frolic Fabric & Epoxy Brads (85597) - Elements, 5th & Frolic Large Decorative Tags (85599) - Bits, 5th & Frolic Chipboard Shapes (85601) - Bits, Foxy Fairview Paper (35805) - 5th & Frolic, Extraordinary Avenue Paper (35818) - 5th & Frolic, Sweet Street Paper (35845) - 5th & Frolic, 5th & Frolic Cardstock Die Cut Shapes (85600) - Bits, 5th & Frolic Burlap & Fabric Bows (85602) - Detailsc, 5th & Frolic Acrylic Stamps (59163) - Stamps, .05 Point Black (62321) - Precision Pen, Dispenser Tabs Adhesive (61712) - This to That

E & BABY MAE by Megan Klauer

The "white space" of a larger photo is the perfect place to layer the embellishments and title work of your design. The Soho Collection was the perfect match with this photo of my daughter.

Supplies: Park Avenue Paper (35834) - Soho Garden, Seafoam (710566) - Cardstock, Orchard Street Paper (35828) - Soho Garden, Tribeca Paper (35836) - Soho Garden, Bleeker Street Fabric Stickers (42272) - Remarks, Garden District (59164) - Acrylic Stamps, Garment District Layered Embellishments (85606) - Details, Mercer Street Layered Tags (85607) - Bits, Midtown Layered Chipboard (42271) - Remarks, Hudson Square Die Cut Shapes (85608) - Bits, Fox Gold (53414) - Thickers, Everyday White (53392) - Thickers, .05 Point Black (62321) - Precision Pen, Dispenser Tabs Adhesive (61712) - This to That, Today Roller Stamp (59220) - Stamps

Visit Megan's blog, Pinterest boards, and Instagram to become her newest fan and see what inspires her!

Corrie Jones is here today with a duo of layouts featuring large (and stunning!) photos:

SUNSET IN FT. MORGAN by Corrie Jones

Supplies: White (71081) - Cardstock, Little Moments Lane Paper (35808) - 5th & Frolic, 5th & Frolic (76249) - Daybook, 5th & Frolic Letter Stickers (42267) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Accent & Phrase Stickers (42265) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Accent & Phrase Stickers (42266) - Remarks, 5th & Frolic Acrylic Stamps (59163) - Stamps, 5th & Frolic Decorative Flowers (77292) - Flower Shoppe, 5th & Frolic Buttons & Accents (85598) - Elements, 5th & Frolic Brads (85597) - Elements, Fox Gold (53414) - Thickers

DREAM BIG SWEET GIRL by Corrie Jones

Happy December! We hope everyone had a great weekend! This week, photos are going to make an extra special (and extra big!) appearance. Some photos are just too great to scrap at the regular size, so we're making them large and in charge and showing you how to scrap 'em. First up is Kimberly Neddo with a layout:

YOU'RE MY FAVORITE by Kimberly Neddo

Supplies: Surrounded Paper (35781) - Ready Set Go, Cute Overload (42253) - Remarks, Baxter Transparent Letter Stickers (42254) - Remarks, Delighted Accents & Phrases Stickers (42252) - Remarks, Die Cut Cardstock Shapes (85589) - Bits, Stitched Ruffle Strips (85640) - Embellishments, 5th & Frolic Large Tags (85599) - Bits

A pair of fabulous layouts with enlarged photos is in the works for tomorrow! Stay tuned!

We have a new Design Team Gallery update filled to the brim with inspiring layouts, cards, and projects!

Click on the link to the Design Team Gallery on the left to see them all full-size!

It's officially December! Everyone have their cameras ready?! Don't forget to keep those coffee sleeves, receipts, and other memorabilia to add to your December album! Today I wanted to give you a few tips on prepping pages/inserts ahead of time. I personally don't do much. I like to do it all when I have the photos/ephemera from the day since so much of my layouts seem to depend on it. However, I know some people like to have as much as possible done ahead of time to increase their chances of finishing before the end of the year.

Here is an example of one page done ahead of time. I know that we'll have/be getting our tree on the first so I was able to do a little more on this page while still leaving room to add in items. I like the little number pocket for inserting a receipt! The smaller pocket with the tree can stay as is or hold lots of journaling on the back.

Some things that you can do to prepare your pages are:

• cut patterned paper/cardstock to size
• paint or mist pages or embellishments
• sew on your pages
• make confetti!
• cut ribbon
• make all of your day number pages (day 1, day 2, etc)

Supplies: Peppermint Parlor Paper (35863) - Kringle and Co, Woodshop Paper (35865) - Kringle and Co, Lighting Department Paper (35855) - Kringle and Co, Kringle Pine (53436) - Thickers, Daily Black (53388) - Thickers, Snowtoes Matte Puffy Stickers (42275) - Remarks, Nippynose Decorative Tags (85610) - Bits, Mistlebow (59167) - Acrylic Stamps

How do you handle your December Album? Do you prepare pages ahead of time or do them on the fly?