Sonja's Scrapbook Spot

Sugar Hoarder?

2012-01-29T14:42:00.000-08:00

Funny thing when you start packing to move. You find all sorts of things. Like the hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of sweetener packets I found in the back room. Four years of crops and coffee...and this is what you get. I figure since I'm now unemployed, I'll use these to barter for next few cups of Starbucks.

Thankful

2012-01-24T14:19:00.000-08:00

My decision to close the shop is still so surreal. I really thought I'd be embarking an a new journey by moving the shop. Still I am at peace with my decision. As I look back over the last 4 years, I have so much to be thankful for! Here are just a few of my musings...

At the crazy age of 29, I got to follow a crazy
dream of opening a scrapbook store.

I have been surrounded by the most loving
and supportive family and friends a girl could ask for.

My faith in God assures me that this is not the end,

but the beginning of something wonderful and new.

I've been privileged to meet some amazing and remarkable

people at the shop and count some of them as my dearest friends!

I've learned so much and am so much

stronger than I ever thought I could be.

Thanks,
Sonja

Love is in the Air

2012-01-11T16:00:00.000-08:00

Join me for this lovely banner class

Thursday, February 2nd; 6-8pm

More details TBA

Sonja

The First 3 Hours....

2012-01-11T15:54:00.000-08:00

Here's a couple snaps from the first layouts of our Done in 15 class. This class starts a week from today and runs for 5 weeks! During that time you'll complete and entire scrapbook and pick up lots of tips, tricks and new techniques along the way.

Wednesday nights starting January 18th

7-10pm; $100/5 sessions

Call 310-410-7272 to register.

Done in 15

2012-01-04T13:25:00.000-08:00

Can you spare 15 hours over 5 weeks? How about 3 hours every Wednesday? I'm launching a new scrapbook class series with the aim of finishing an entire album in 15 hours! Can it be done? Yes, it can!

Join me for 5 Wednesdays as we work through an SEI album kit. We'll complete 2 double page spreads during each class. Plus, I'll be putting my own creative spin on each layout teaching you plenty of tips and tricks along the way. This is a great class for those of you who have never scrapped before or veteran scrappers who are looking to finish a project!!!

Scrapbook Album Class $100/5 sessions

That's $20 a session!

Class series includes the Fresh Cut Scrapbook Album Kit from SEI a $35 value,

with hundreds of items to work with.

Plus, you'll learn how to personalize your layouts with handmade embellishments, stamping, stitching, antiquing and various layering techniques.

Wednesday, January 18th; 7-10pm

Wednesday, January 25th; 7-10pm

Wednesday, February 1st; 7-10pm

Wednesday, February 8th;7-10pm

Wednesday, February 15th; 7-10pm

This first person to register for this class will receive 50 free 4x6" photo prints!

This One Has Nothing To Do With the Holidays...

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Just a quick class announcement!

Monika Thomas is coming to teach this nifty recipe book

featuring materials from Canvas Corp!

Tuesday, January 17th; 6-8pm; $30*.

Call to sign up

310-410-7272

*cash or check payable to Monika Thomas.

Last Minute Treats

2011-12-21T15:51:00.000-08:00

If you're needing last minute treats, check out the tubes from SRM Press. Their popular tube now comes in two additional variations...the wand and the mini. The wand is perfect for m & m's (yummy!) and the mini is actually perfect as a place card holder. So here are some festive ideas featuring stickers from SRM, also!

The tube and the wand are $1 each (sorry, candy and card not included) and the mini is 75 cents!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-21T14:27:00.000-08:00

I did it! I actually made Christmas Cards this year. Now the trick is getting them addressed and posted in time. I'd love to send each and every one of you a card, but this post will just have to do.

I found the tree pattern in a craft book of my moms. Its basically a half circle folded on itself a couple times. I used prints from Crate Paper's Peppermint Collection!

I accented with red Pearl Pens from Viva Decor and tinsel from my stash of stuff!

Happy Holidays to you and yours!

Much love,

Sonja

Happy Hanukkah!

2011-12-20T13:35:00.000-08:00

Can I tell you a funny story? This one has nothing to do with scrapbooking but it does involve the theme of today's layouts. Yesterday I was at Trader Joe's and an older couple was arguing in the baked goods section about whether or not certain items were kosher. It was getting to be a pretty heated discussion and everyone was backing away and giving them their space. Finally the husband walks off in a huff and says, "Fine, let's just bring them a ham." It was one of the funnier moments I've had at TJs!

Ok, back to scrapping....here's some Hanukkah inspiration for you for the first day of the Festival of Lights! I loved layering the new Hanukkah paper from Karen Foster with other prints around the shop, including a navy houndstooth that is found on the reverse side of a My Mind's Eye print and a distressed solid from Crate Paper's Random collection. The ruffle couldn't have been easier! I added double stick tape along the perimeter of the paper and formed the ruffle by hand. No sewing involved! Love it! Of course, you can't go wrong with torn or sanded edges.

Be sure to set out some time to shop our Hanukkah selection, its the best one we've ever had!

Sonja

Cousins' Christmas with Jingle from Lily Bee

2011-12-14T18:52:00.000-08:00

Remember I said that I got to scrapbook with my own photos last weekend? Well, here's another layout featuring the Jingle Collection from Lily Bee Design. It's not quite done yet. Need to journal a bit about our special cousins' Christmas gathering, but I think there's enough here so you get the idea.

I combined the cardstock & alphabet stickers for the custom title banner. The layout itself is a patchwork featuring the collection's Index Journaling Cards.

Come on in and check out this collection...you'll love it!

Progressive Holiday Banner Class

2011-12-14T17:55:00.000-08:00

Join us the weekend for our first joint class with Stampin' from the Heart. For this progressive class you'll complete half of the banner at my shop and half at Karen's shop.

We've designed two different banners so you can create one for $12 or both for $20. You can also start either project at either store so the options are endless!

Winter Believe Banner featuring Winter Twig by Little Yellow Bicycle

Christmas Believe Banner featuring Wonder Wishes from Little Yellow Bicycle.

I'll be matching my hours with Karen during this project

Friday 11am - 8pm

Saturday 10am - 6pm (or 10 pm if I have a crop)

This class is drop in style, anytime Friday & Saturday!

And, of course, yummy spiced cider and treats will be served,

as well as an opportunity to save 15%, 25% or 35% storewide.

Christmas Kitty with Canvas Corp

2011-12-11T18:10:00.001-08:00

I hope you are sitting down, because not only did I scrapbook with real photos this weekend but I scrapbooked with my photos! I actually made pages for my own scrapbook! Once you have recovered from your dizzy spell take a look at "Christmas Kitty" with Canvas Corp papers.

I accented the layout with canvas fringe ($2/yard)

and a canvas star shape ($2/3)!

The layout is also accented with Candy Cane twine from the Twinery and

custom buttons from Epiphany Craft Studio!

But wait, there's more. I have another layout to show you. You'll see later this week!

Best, Sonja

Holiday Workshop Preview #5

2011-12-01T12:36:00.001-08:00

I am always telling people that I am going to take up jewelry making in my spare time. These people generally look at me with a giant question mark....what spare time? But I am keeping the faith alive. One day, jewelry making will be my hobby. Too kick things off, I have our first Patera make 'n' take. Patera combines two of my favorite things....paper and jewelry. Choose to make either charm for only $5. You can wear your creation, give as a gift or use it to embellish your favorite paper craft! Supplies are limited for this project...I only have a total of 10 charms.

If Patera looks like something you're interested in learning more about, let me know! I'm looking in to starting regular Patera classes next year. Let's learn together!

Sonja

Holiday Workshop Preview #4

2011-11-30T12:09:00.001-08:00

I'm so excited to that Donna from Sparkle N Sprinkle is joining us on Saturday from 10am - noon during our Holiday Workshop. She's offering a free demo of some of their wonderful stamps and techniques as well as bringing holiday sets of their products to sell! You definitely won't want to miss her visit!

Holiday Workshop Preview #3

2011-11-21T12:30:00.000-08:00

Here's another one of our Holiday Workshop projects. Make this adorable Christmas Stocking Card featuring paper from Cosmo Cricket for only $5. (Picture it with a candy cane...I refuse to by them until December) (Also, picture with a jingle bell attached....if I can find them in the back room from last year)

This is also a perfect for gift cards and other tiny presents!

This project will be available drop in style on Saturday, December 3rd from 10am - 4pm. You'll also receive a stocking pattern so you can recreate at home!

More previews to come!

Holiday Workshop Preview #2

2011-11-20T13:50:00.001-08:00

Check out one of the FREE DEMOS during our Holiday Workshop on December 3rd. Learn how to turn ribbon and Glubers into beautiful flowers. These handmade accents will add something special to any of your holiday projects.

Gluber Demo will be hosted between Noon - 4pm.

Our Holiday workshop is drop in all day on the 3rd, but projects will be available on a first come, first serve basis. Check back soon for more workshop previews!

Holiday Workshop Preview #1

2011-11-08T16:46:00.000-08:00

The holidays are rapidly approaching! Save the date to join us for our Holiday Workshop on Saturday, December 3rd from 10am - 4pm. Here's a sneak peak at one of our projects, an Envelope Mini Album featuring the Peppermint Collection from Crate Paper for only $10

This mini album can be stuffed with 6x6 mini pages or make an interactive card for the holidays. Fill the pockets with family photos, your favorite cookie recipe or craft idea and send it out with your Holiday greetings.

Kits will be available on a first come, first serve basis during our workshop, or you can reserve yours in advance for $10.

More previews to come!

Sonja

Act Local

2011-11-02T17:08:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite quotes is "Think Global, Act Local." It's been a business model for Coca Cola and has been inspirational to me throughout my years in non-profit work. Now as a business woman it takes on a whole new meaning, especially with the unique economy I've faced in my almost 4 years in business.

There are lots of easy, local ways you can help support your local economy and provide much needed stimulus to your favorite local businesses. Small acts of support have a tremendous impact on us and you really can make a big difference.

#1 Commit in a tangible way to buy local programs. Here are two of my favorites:

The 3/50 Project has been a tremendous grassroots movement emphasizing how support of local independents stimulates both the local & national economy. Their message is simple. Pick 3 local stores, restaurants, service providers that you can't live without and spend $50 a month among those stores. (You don't have to spend $50 at each store, just among the 3 stores). They even have an app for that!

I've got my personal 3 stores I support as well as 3 independent manufactures I support with my business.

American Express has jumped on the small business train by sponsoring Small Business Saturday, the first Saturday after Thanksgiving. To encourage you to shop small, they're giving you a one time $25 credit on your AmEx statement when you spend $25 or more at an independent on November 26th. You will have to register your card in advance. Visit their website or facebook page for more details!

And there is this funny, friendly reminder from Rachel at Perfect Day Scapbooking in Huntington Beach:

#2 Pay with Cash or Check

I did so much research and strategic planning before opening the shop and forgot one teeny, tiny thing. Credit cards cost money! I was shocked at how much I was paying in fees every month for accepting credit card transactions. I pay per swipe, plus a percentage of the total sale. OUCH! You can help your favorite independent by paying with cash or check. Not only will that help us with our fees, but it improves our cash flow. Often it takes 5 days to receive the funds from credit card transactions. I know this is a tough one, I rarely carry cash myself so I know that this requires some advance planning. But if you can remember cash, especially for purchases under $20, you will really help your favorite indy.

#3 Occupy...the Workshop

So this is a big buzz word right now, but what I really mean is you can show your support by simply showing up for a crop, class or even our free workshop time. A full shop is a happy shop! Whenever people are working here, there is a natural draw. People want to come in and find out what's going on. Some people discover their own crafty passions. So even if you're not in the mood to go shopping you can show your support by filling our workshop with the sounds of paper trimmers, scissors, eyelet setters and most importantly laughter!

#4 Bring Your Own Bags

We're scrapbookers so we never seem to be in shortage of bags. Bringing your own bags when you shop with your favorite independent is not only good for our environment but helps a business owner with their bottom line. Imagine how many cool scrapbook supplies I could buy for the shop if I didn't have to spend so much money on bags!

#5 Spread the Word

An independents most powerful marketing tool is YOU!!! Spread the word and share your personal experience. Why are they so special to you. Share your heartfelt experience. Your personal recommendations go a long way towards promoting a local business!

Yelp is one of the best ways to review our shop. It's got a great reputation for business reviews. Whether you take the time to tell your friends, review us on Yelp, follow us on Facebook or Twitter, you are my most powerful marketing voice!

Thank you for all of your tremendous support! Love you!
Sonja

Christmas Cards with Alice

2011-11-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

Last minute class just added for Tuesday, December 20th; 5-7pm!

***WARNING: If you take this class you probably won't want to send these cards out for the holidays....that's how much you love them!***

Alice Carman has been sharing her card making talents with us over the last year and we LOVE her! I'm sure it helps that she brings us freshly baked treats and passes our scrap goodies like candy!

These are her latest designs using the NEW Peppermint Collection from Crate Paper. This collection is adorable and we have already sold out of many of their items!

Alice is teaching 2 class sessions

Sunday, November 13th &

Sunday, December 4th

2-5pm; $35

Spots will go quickly so be sure to reserve soon with cash or a check payable to Alice Carman. Sorry, credit cards payments are not accepted for this class.

If you think you will be interested in additional class kits (so you'll have a set to send and a set to keep) please let us know prior to the class so we can have one ready for you!

SUPPLY LIST

3D foam tape or dot

Fine tip scissors

Tape adhesive

Scor-tape/ high tacky tape (red tape is ok)

White/Brown/Silver chalk ink

White Pen

Paper poker

Sew Easy System (optional)

Needle and white thread (optional if you plan to sew using the sew easy system)

Thankfulness Cubed

2011-11-01T17:00:00.000-07:00

It sure does feel great to craft again! I whipped out this project on Saturday during our annual Costume Crop. (Here's the gang....we had soooooo much fun!)

So like I said, I have so much to be thankful for and it just so happens this is the season to have an attitude of gratitude. So I've designed this project to be a reflective, inspirational and creative piece. Set it on your coffee table at home or incorporate it as a centerpiece at Thanksgiving. This class is designed to be your own personal reflection so you'll be personalizing each side with your own photos, quotes, verses or anything at all!

Here's a better look!

This class features the family of Glimmer Mist paints, the Summer's End collection from Fancy Pants Designs and several other embellishments. I only have 6 kits available for the class ($25) or for purchase ($45 - includes all the paint products as well).

DATE CHANGE:

In the previous post I mentioned the date of November 20th. Due to scheduling difficulties I am changing the class time to November 17th. Drop in any time from 2-6pm or make arrangements to come in after hours. The project will take 2-3 hours.

SUPPLY LIST:

Bring your thankfulness items, wet adhesive such as Zip Dry, sanding tool, ink such as Chestnut Roan Cat Eye or Vintage Photo Distress Ink, 3d adhesive, scissors and paper trimmer.

See you soon!

Sonja

Thankful

2011-10-29T15:00:00.000-07:00

My heart is overflowing with Thankfulness these days. Today's the first day I've really crafted since my accident and I'm putting together a mixed media home decor project for a November class. There will only be 6 kits available so save the date for Sunday, November 20th! More details TBA.

A Bit of Scrap Therapy

2011-10-25T15:37:00.000-07:00

Wow, can't believe it's been two months since I blogged. Things were a bit crazy for my after my car accident and broken wrist, and learning how to depend on public transit until I can drive again. I hope to get together some crafty project to share with you this week, but before then, I want to take the time to share with you about an the awesome CRAFT retreat.

But I need to preface it with a story first. I began scrapping in high school with Creative Memories as a school project and immediately fell in love with it. I loved the creative expression involved. I loved telling the story with my photos. I loved all the scrap stuff...although back then there wasn't much to choose from. Then came college and even though I was super busy, still kept up with my beloved hobby. But during graduate school and the start of my professional career I found myself moving farther away from the things that had given me so much joy. That, combined with many other stressors in my life created a very painful and dark place in my soul. I began to struggle with depression... hopelessness and a strong sense that I had lost my way. One day, I started scrapping again. I started with a pile of childhood photos and one by one began to reflect on my life. And then I was able to see the truth about my life. I was not a mess. My life had been good. I had been happy once...and I would be happy again.

To me, there is a unique quality about scrapping that allows us to process the great, the ordinary and the downright ugly part of our lives. So I am so excited about the CRAFT retreat that my friend Rachel is hosting.

Rachel is the owner of Scrapbooking from the Inside Out that blends our favorite craft with soul exploration. At CRAFT - Creating Reflective Art for Transformation, you’ll spend a magical weekend focused on embracing who you truly are and gaining the skills, techniques and tools to use our craft to understand yourself more deeply on an ongoing basis. The teachers, classes, and sponsors are PHENOMENAL! I am honored to provide a mini store for the retreat, and I hope you can join us for this super special weekend!

Here are just a couple sneak peeks from CRAFT!

See you there!

Sonja

Craft and Run with Amy Tangerine

2011-08-27T16:34:00.000-07:00

The most important thing I needed to get done today, beside leaving plenty of food and water for the cat, was birthday cards for the 3 family birthdays I'm celebrating this weekend in San Francisco! Thankfully the brand new Amy Tangerine collection from American Crafts really got the juices flowing. No pun intended =)

"You are Delightful" is for my mom who celebrates her birthday today. I used paper from the Amy Tangerine collection as the base and made the accordion flower from a strip of the fabric paper. And I'm so excited to use Glubers from Cosmo Cricket for the first time. Other accents on the card are fabric stickers from Amy Tangerine and Tiny Type from Cosmo Cricket.

"Wishing You a Slice of the Good Life" is for my bother-in-law who also celebrates his birthday today. I layered two Amy Tangerine pages as the base as well as a block of her self adhesive fabric paper. The fabric sticker sentiment is pop off of the card with foam tape. And since I tend to scrapbook backwards, the jumbo brads, also from American Crafts were an afterthought. So I snipped off the metal prongs with a junk pair of scissors (never, ever use your good scissors for this) and glued them on. Another fabric sticker accents one of the brads. And again, Tiny Type from Cosmo.

And "Smiles All Around" is for my sister who's birthday is next week. I layered a stitched paper from Amy's collection with another page and cut out the accent from the fabric paper. I used a leftover strip from the fabric paper to make a mini accordion flower and a jumbo brad for the center. The fabric sticker sentiment is also layered with the foam tape.

Have fun in the heat wave. Mom reminded me to pack a sweater...San Fran's natural AC is at work!

Scraptacular Scrapbooking

2011-08-14T14:39:00.000-07:00

Here's a look back at Summer School! I had so much fun teaching at Marlborough. It was truly a privilege to share the fun of scrapbooking with the young ladies. Here's a few snaps, but I didn't get to take too many pictures....too busy!

This was my classroom...before moving all of the scrapbook stuff in.

Just a few of the student kits stacked up.

Every morning I brought my briefcase to class with me,

then back to the shop to help customers.

Our bulletin board featured a few of the techniques I taught the students...flower making, handmade embellishments, gimmer mist, stitching, cricutting, just to name a few.

The royal couple stayed just a couple blocks away...

it was so fun to see this banner on the corner of the campus.

During the last week of class, I asked the students

to make pages for my scrapbook! They were so cute!

I'm planning to adapt the Scraptacular Scrapbooking course for use at the shop...either for kids as an after school club or for adults. If you're interested, please take this survey to help me structure the class for the shop.

Click here to take survey

Sonja

Kapkumka (thanks) Heather!

2011-08-13T16:00:00.000-07:00

Shop Hop would not have been complete without the help of my friend Heather who is living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, working with kids at risk in the red light district. She found my Thai bottle caps and shipped them without delay! I am so thankful for her help in making our Shop Hop so successful!

Heather is working with TawSaeng. I wanted to let her share more about what they are doing in case you are interested in helping support them. With the money I would have spent on bottle caps, I was able to donate to their important work in Thailand.

Also, we've purposefully chosen these photos to post because the identities of the kids are obscured, protecting them.

*****

Taw Saeng is a ministry working with children in the heart of the red light district of Chiang Mai, Thailand. We currently have 33 children between the ages of 3 and 18 in our after school program. 98% of the kids we work with have either been abused or propositioned in this unsavory part of town.

The goal of our program is to emphasize education and family unity while keeping the kids in a safe environment after school so they are not wandering the streets unaccompanied. One way we do this is by helping families pay for their children’s school fees. As the kids get older, their education becomes more expensive, so often parents feel it is easier to pull their kids out of school and have them sell things on the streets.

Our Thai staff do an amazing job of working with the families to keep kids in school, in homes with their families and away from potentially harmful situations. Please consider supporting our ministry by either a one time or recurring donation! We are also working on setting up an educational sponsorship program to ensure every family we work with can afford to send their children to school. If you would like to sponsor a child please let us know

Visit us at www.tawsaeng.org

*****

Heather just shared with me that they are hoping to take the older kids to a sleep away camp in October and they are hoping to receive enough donations to make this possible.

Also, you can follow Heather's Blog www.thethaisthatbind.blogspot.com for more about her day to day work.

Kapkumka (Thanks)!

Sonja

Elephant Dung Journals

2011-08-07T08:30:00.000-07:00

Looking for a home for all of your fantastic Shop Hop Make 'n' Takes? Check out these fantastic Elephant Dung Journals, available by special order only.

The smaller journal measures Approximately 6 3/4" x 8", has 18 pages which is room for approximately 36 make 'n' takes. It also features elephant dung photo corners. Reserve yours for $18.00

The larger journal measures approximately 9"x11" and has

30 pages which is room for 60 make 'n' takes. Reserve yours for $25.00.

Sorry, shop hop discounts do not apply to these items. Also, color choices are not available. I am sent whatever is in stock with the US distributor and colors will be available on a first come, first serve basis.

If you are interested in a book, please contact me by September 1st. All orders must be pre-paid.

A portion of all sales of Elephant Dung products supports elephant conservation in Thailand.

Sonja

Thai Roasted Peanuts

2011-08-06T18:04:00.001-07:00

The Thai Roasted Peanuts have been a huge hit and lots of you have requested the recipe so I snapped a few photos this morning as I cooked a fresh batch. The great thing about this recipe is you can make it as spicy or sweet as you like. Just adjust the amount of honey or red chilis. I rarely use measurements...sorry. But it's pretty hard to mess this one up. Cooking time is approximately 10 minutes. Click on each photo to enlarge and see more detail. Any questions, just leave a comment or email sonja@sonjasscrapbookspot.com

Same Same But Different

2011-08-05T08:30:00.000-07:00

A really popular Thai phrase is "Same Same But Different." It's another way of saying similar when comparing something. You might say "is Core-dinations cardstock the same as Bazzill?" and I'd say...same same...but different. "Starbucks and Coffee Bean" Same same...but different. "Facebook and Twitter" Same same...but different. Got it?

When I saw this collection from Creative Imaginations it screamed Thailand. I expected it to be called Siam or Bangkok or Sawadeeka. But it wasn't. It's called Marrakesh which is in Morocco. So I have concluded that Marrakesh must be same same but different.

Also we'll do a 2nd run of our t-shirts at the end of Shop Hop by pre-paid, pre-order only. Use this sign up sheet to pick your size then call in to pay. Sorry, no shop hop discount on the shirts.

Elephant What???

2011-08-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

That's exactly what I said when I first heard about Elephant Dung Paper. I couldn't believe it. They couldn't possibly be serious. But they were and on a whim I ordered if for Shop Hop. I wasn't sure what to expect, but it sure has been a hit!

The paper comes in 16 colors, in sizes 12x12 and 8 1/2 x 11. In addition to it's rich colors and unique lightweight texture, the paper features flecks of straw.

Fun Dung Facts....(from www.elephantdungpaper.com)

One elephant will produce enough dung for 115 sheets of paper!
Mr Wanchai started making the paper in his kitchen with a food processor.
Elephant Dung Paper is 100% bacteria free and doesn't smell.

For more info on the poop to paper process check out their website. Or, you can check out this article.

I have reordered the paper 3 times and have cleaned out the US Distributor. So if you're out and about on Shop Hop, or just think this is way to cool to miss, stop by soon, because this last batch is going to go quickly!

Sonja

Shop Hop Make 'n' Takes

2011-07-31T17:27:00.000-07:00

Sawadeeka! Thanks so much for taking the time to visit our store during shop hop. It is so wonderful to meet all of you. I hope you enjoyed the little bit of Thailand that I brought to the shop.

Here are the photos of our two make 'n' take pages featuring the Thai Saa Paper.

The pages are pretty straight forward, but here are some guidelines for helping complete them:

1) Adhesive....since this is a fibrous paper, tape runners won't work. They'll just pull the top layer of paper off. Instead, use Glue Dots or your favorite liquid glue, like Zip Dry.

2) Pop, Pop, Pop....I believe everything looks better on a 3D dot, so use those to layer your bamboo, elephant and palm tree.

3) Texture with Tearing....tear the edges of your photo mat for extra dimension.

4) Umbrella....open them fully, then fold them in half. Adhere with a liquid glue.

Enjoy!

Sonja

Driving My Toyota To Honda

2011-06-15T14:50:00.000-07:00

About twice a year I drive my Camry down to Honda Corp in Torrance and teach the wonderful ladies of the scrapbook club! This year we created a fun summer inspired layout using my two favorite colors of Bazzil paper (kraft and natural), printed paper from My Mind's Eye and stickers from Heidi Swapp. I still have stickers available for only $1 sheet if you want to recreate this layout at home!

Thanks for having me! I'll see you in November!

Sonja

Halloween in June

2011-06-03T12:23:00.000-07:00

If we can have Christmas in July, why not have Halloween in June? So I created this layout last night with the fantastic Best Creations Halloween line, their glitter paper and glitter dot paper.

Tanja is always reminding me about texture. So I added a strip of gold tinsel on the bottom.

This weekend only...50% off all Halloween items in stock.
Sale ends Sunday, June 5th.

Happy Spookbooking!
Sonja

146 Pages Later....

2011-05-28T12:21:00.001-07:00

It has been quite a month for custom work here at the shop! Today I tallied up the pages....146 pages for three different clients. So much fun! Although, I definitely got to a point this last week where I was certain I had lost my ability to cut a straight line. Unfortunately due to scrapbooker/client privilege I can't show you much of my work, but with permission, here are a few samples.

If you follow me on facebook you'll know that I promised you some speed scrapper tips after the 50 pages I power laid out for a friend. This was a really unique experience for me becuase I focused on the base of the layouts rather than the photos or the finishing touches. So here was my process....

1) Pick gorgeous papers and a matching solid

2) Identify your base paper (usually for me it was the solid paper)

3) Layer the other sheets in easy patterns...blocks, sqaures, sidebar borders etc.

4) Focus on texture...ripping the edges of the paper is my favorite "new" technique. Of course, inking is also a must and everything looks better popped up with foam tape.

5) Finish with ribbon, brads or a handmade embellishment. Of course, this step can wait until you are ready to add your photos.

The trick to this being speed scrapbooking is to turn off the overly analytical part of your brain. I know....gasp...I am asking you to not be critical of your own work and to relax. First of all, the companies have done a fantastic job of pairing papers that match, so let them do the work for you. Secondly, don't worry about your layouts all looking the same, because they won't. Once you have added your photos and other embellishments they will take on a life of their own. Some of the layouts can even be flipped and used with a different orientation, making them stand out from crowd. So have a blast....and just tear through it...pun intended.

*****

So my first project was great inspiration for my second project, an ancestry album for a graduation present. This family spent hours and hours collecting stories, memories and interviews with relatives as well as scanning family photos. Such a labor of LOVE and a terrific reminder to make this happen; to tell your family story! So here are some snaps of that project!

*****

So I can't show you my last project, but here I am hand delivering it today. Although this project was a lot simpler in style with very few patterned papers and embellishements, I was reminded that simple is still super classy! Everything was double matted with solid cardstock and mounted with foam tape. Clean lines and basic layouts are still the way to go when you want a stunning presentation!

Have fun!

Sonja

What's Hoppining at SRM?

2011-04-06T13:15:00.000-07:00

SRM always has the cutest ideas!!! So I thought I'd hop on over to her blog and pick out some super cute ideas to share with you. If you like what you see and need to order any of the stickers, tubes or wands please let me know by April 13th! Wands and tubes are $1 each and can be ordered in bulk quantities for your Easter parties!

Easter Egg Carton - ADORABLE!!!
Read the full post here.

Easter Wands - love the tag!
Read the full post here

Easter Egg Tubes....Love the sparkly eggs!
Read the full post here

Just a few of the stickers used!

Layout of the Month

2011-03-16T12:56:00.000-07:00

I've been tinkering with this layout for weeks. Then I said to myself, "enough already, post the stinkin' layout!" So here's our latest layout of the month, featuring the Mix & Mend collection from Sassafras Lass.

I wanted to focus on working with paper that is already super detailed. How can you make the most of the detail, add your own texture and twist and still add pictures? We'll I never made it to the pictures part...but there is space for them on this layout...one 5x7" & two 4x6". Here are more details of the project.

Learn how to make this layout on Sunday, March 27th or Tuesday, March 29th.
Drop - In, Anytime, All day; $20

Please bring your basic tool kit!

Anniversary Crop Scraptacular!

2011-03-15T15:55:00.000-07:00

We had a FANTASTIC time celebrating the shop's third year anniversary with a 3 day Scraptacular Crop. Here's are just a few snaps...

Julia snuck in some scrapbook time in amid Words with Friends and National Pi Day! Thanks for the pie!

Donice choosing her favorite ribbon embellishments.

Sandra enlisted her kids to help her move in for all 3 days. Thanks for sharing all of your cricut cartridges!

Everybody in scrap-action

Of course there were lots of yummy treats to be found.

Even Linda's new dog Miss Vivien spent some time with us!

Thanks to everyone for such a fantastic anniversary weekend and don't forget...our next 3 day crop is in honor of National Scrapbook Day and will be held May 13th - 15th (one week later because of Mother's Day). Reserve your seat now because space always goes fast!

310-410-7272

National Craft Month Make 'n' Take

2011-03-12T14:10:00.000-08:00

In honor of National Craft Month, I'm hosting a week long drop-in Make 'n' Take. Learn how to make this adorable mini box complete with mini cards. Once you see how easy it is to make this box, you'll want to make many more so you'll receive detailed take home instructions.

Drop In Anytime Saturday March 19th - 25th
Noon - 6pm; $10

Thanks to SRM Press for this adorable project idea! We'll use their stickers and papers from My Mind's Eye.

Spring is in the Air

2011-02-24T12:44:00.000-08:00

Spring is in air! Its lighter later, tissues are in hand and the urge to clean is among us. I simply could not wait to show you this super cute acrylic spring banner that we'll be making at the shop on March 31st for $30. Isn't it adorable? Monika will be teaching the class and kits will be available if you can't make it that day.

Rusty Pickle Classes With Lance This Sunday

2011-02-23T11:45:00.000-08:00

Don't let your scrapbook skills get rusty....or maybe rusty is a good thing? Join Lance Anderson from Rusty Pickle for these super creative class this Sunday....

Rustic Journey Altered Tag Mini Album
Sunday the 27th from 11am - 2pm; $45

Please bring a stapler, hole punch, wet adhesive or glue stick, red tape, & Brown or black ink in addition to your basic tool kit.

*****

Timeless Love Mini Album
Sunday the 27th - 3-5pm; $40

Please bring brown ink, scissors, trimmer, adhesive -
including wet or a glue stick for the chipboard and a hole punch

Local Love ...

2011-02-09T11:38:00.001-08:00

Every once and a while I like to highlight The 350 Project because they are doing such a great job of raising awareness of the importance of supporting independents, like yours truly, because it just makes more sense economically.

But it also make sense emotionally...the Locals Love you more because it's true. I do what I do out of love. Love for scrapbooking, love for crafters and love for the friends I've made along the way. When the going gets tough...and believe me, it gets really tough, I hang in here because I do love you more!

So if you're looking for some local love this Valentine's day I have a couple goodies for you to consider.

Ribbon Cups make a terrific Valentine for your crafty friends. Each is unique and contains several yards of ribbon plus flower embellishments for just $5.

For a sweeter treat, consider our Candy Gram Tubes complete with candy and a mini handmade card. They're just $3 and you can't beat the ease. Or if you'd like to make your own, the empty tubes are just $1.

Last but certainly not least, we have gorgeous handmade Valentine Cards for sale for just $5.

And as always, we'll have our drop in Valentine Card workshop this weekend for just $5 so you can create your own Valentine, too!

Love ya,
Sonja

February Layout of the Month Class

2011-02-05T13:37:00.000-08:00

This year I want to get back to the basics and focus more on layouts...hence the last several posts. So I want to make sure there is a layout class for you each month. Classes are designed for anyone who wants to learn how to scrapbook or anyone who wants to try new tips and techniques...and everyone in between.

Here's this month's layout...featuring Scarlett from Glitz Design.
Click on the photo for a larger version!

We'll play with stamping, frames, glossy accents and even cover some Cricut basics. And you'll see how fun it is to scrapbook with smaller photos!

I'm offering this class twice:
Thursday, February 24th & Sunday, February 27th

It's drop-in style, anytime on those days, but please
do me a favor and let me know you're coming =)

The class fee is $20 and please bring your basic tool kit and own bottle of Glossy Accents or purchase it here at the shop. We'll be using lots of it!

This class really works better if you come with photos,
so please bring at least 6 photos print wallet size.

Off to work on March's layout!
Sonja

In Love with Lost & Found

2011-02-04T17:41:00.000-08:00

The Lost & Found Collection from My Mind's Eye has inspired a lot of romance around here. The french inspired motifs and glitter accents are fantastic to work with. Here are four layouts to share!

There are lots and lots and lots of layers on this layout, which seems to be my favorite style right now. Here 2 papers are layered for a mat, plus a distress background rub on from Glitz Design. Imagine a photo or two on top of that shabby damask pattern. Next I accordion folded a border and added a rose ribbon border on top of that! The title is popped up on top of it all....simply perfect.

*****

I played with layering a bit different on this page...creating a bit of a shadowbox effect by taking the center out of the pink stripe paper and popped it up over the background paper. I double matted my photo mats and cut slits in the background paper to tuck pieces under elements like the bird cage, etc. The rose bouquet from ZVA is an easy way to add texture.

*****

I have to admit this one took me hours, but only because I kept trying tons of different ribbons until I found the exact right one. But that's all done for you so this layout will be easy as pie. Trim roughly 3" of the right side of the die cut paper and that will be the left part of your corset. After you add the eyelets for lasing, mount both pieces of the corset to the background page with foam mounting tape. Then lace your ribbon through. Take your left over ribbon pieces to make photo corners for your mats.

****

Cant' leave the boys out. This super cute cowboy motif is found in the "blue" collection of Lost & Found. I added a chipboard piece as one of the photo mats and layered ribbon under my paper layers for extra definition. Tanja had the brilliant idea to use silver photo corners to pick up the silver glitter accents! It all works!

Have fun creating!

Love in Bloom

2011-02-02T17:41:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I wish inspiration wasn't so slow to come. Then I could have shared this fantastic idea with you a lot sooner. As it is, there is still time to come in and make this adorable "Love in Bloom" home decor piece and have it on display before Valentine's Day. The tree stands about 3 feet tall and your kit includes a bud vase. This is a perfect mommy & me project since it's super kid friendly!

Love in Bloom

Tuesday, February 8th; $25
Anytime, All Day

Please reserve your kit in advance!

And here's a look at some of the lovely papers used in this project from Best Creation! They're all in stock now, but won't be for long, so hurry in!

Wedded Bliss

2011-01-30T16:06:00.000-08:00

For a single lady I'm extremely picky about wedding paper. And there isn't much out there that I love which means there isn't much here at the shop. But when I saw the Anna Griffin winter line last fall I knew I had to have it....for Christmas and for wedding. It comes in two tones, silver and gold and either collection is perfect for your special occasion.

Here's a single page spread I created during the 4 day crop.

I started by layering lots and lots of patterns and textures. First the base paper then another layer on the diagonal. Then a pearl lining border. The photo mats are double matted with a 3rd print, a solid and photo corners. To give them extra dimension they are popped up with foam tape.

The layout still needed a focal point so I started playing with the triangles of paper cut from my 2nd layer. It resulted in a flower...I have step by step instructions below. The center is a Bling Brad from Bazzill.

*****

So here's how to make the flower...

1. Start with a triangle...

(I cut my 4 triangles in half for a total of 8 to make the flower)

2. Fold one side of the triangle up at the center point

3. Fold the other side of the triangle up at the center point.

4. Flip and fluff. Use your finger to open the center area up to give it extra dimension. Repeat for all 8 piece and layer for a flower!

*****

If you haven't seen the winter layout yet, here it is again!

I combined 4 prints from both the gold and silver collections, plus mats from the Creative Imagination's Real Wood Collection.

I added dimension with popped up die cut and tinsel from Melissa Frances.

Enjoy, Enjoy!
Sonja

More Layouts with Dear Lizzy

2011-01-25T13:35:00.000-08:00

Here are more layouts from my marathon last week. These two feature papers from Dear Lizzy 2 from American Crafts. Aren't the colors fantastic for spring?

The pleated flower is accented with a vintage crystal button from Bazzill.

I also added a swatch of from a Hambly Transparency overlay and one of the super cute (but hard to know what to do with) pom poms from Glitz design.

The 2nd layout features overlapping strips that are 3" wide with rounded corners. I don't know what the rounded corners make such a difference, but it really does. I really wanted to feature the lace paper which is gorgeous but again, harder to know what to do with. Here's it's peaking out from under a layer, making it easier to adhere. I used a scrap of lace from Melissa Frances to finish the layout.

This design is easily transferable to a card, courtesy of Linda Tucker.

Ps....the background for both layouts with the white dotted swiss from Bazzill.

Happy crafting,

Sonja

No, I have not fallen off the face of the earth....

2011-01-19T12:20:00.000-08:00

...I have just not been scrapbooking! There were of course the endless holiday preparations last month and a long and not fun to - do list greeting the new year. But during our 4 day crop....yes....Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday, I scrapped a dozen layouts to share with you. So here are the first few featuring the Alphabet Soup collection from My Mind's Eye.

This collection is so much fun and has a bright, kid-friendly color scheme. It also features a unique embellishment...playing cards. Here I sanded the cards and added them as an extra background layer on the layout. Aren't they cute?

For the "girl layout" I strung together several cards to form a banner accented by crystal embellishments from Melissa Frances.

And finally, there are some fun prints for Valentine's Day, like this argyle heart pattern. I red ribbon as an accent. Remember....colors don't have to be matchy matchy to be look good. They can be the same hue...just a stronger tone as in this layout. Colors should compliment, not clash. And I used the backside of the playing cards to add another heart element to the page. The weaving was super easy....just cut one inch strips and inch apart from one another.

Hope this inspires some creativity for you in the new year. I'll share more layouts soon!

Sonja

Kid's Crafts this Week

2010-12-19T16:27:00.000-08:00

Looking for something to do with the kids during the holiday break? Come on in for our kids craft workshop all week! Choose one project or all of them! Best of all, you can drop in on your own schedule. And they're not just for kids, anyone can come in and work on them.

Bonus treat...I'll have cookies to decorate...leave the mess to me!

Christmas Cards. $5 each

Christmas Stocking; $5

Chipboard Album; $15 (other shapes available, too)

Gingerbread Magnet, $1

Plus, we still have plenty of Tube Treats to make for $2 each or our "December Drop-in" book for $15.

Please bring your basic tool kit!
Please note I will not be open Monday the 20th or Christmas Eve!

Blog Hop Blond Moment

2010-12-11T11:38:00.001-08:00

So it turns out I wasn't signed up for the Paper Secrets Holiday Blog Hop this weekend...blond moment! I sure have been out of it lately. Oh well. I've still been crafty and here are two layouts with Holly Jolly Collection from My Mind's Eye.

The tree is made up of curled strips of paper...3/4" by 3".

I used the round chipboard backdrops from Melissa Frances as giant ornaments!

Gift Book

2010-12-02T13:12:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for a quick and easy Handmade Book this Holiday? Drop in anytime in December to make my favorite gift book featuring the I Believe collection from My Mind's Eye. This is a simple project to make (I plan to finish 5 of them for family this year) and will dazzle your friends and family. Stop by anytime this month (unless a regularly scheduled class or crop is planned) and create yours for only $15. Please plan to bring your basic tool kit with you!

Cookie Jar Santa Book with Nancy Evans

2010-11-22T13:32:00.000-08:00

You cannot miss this class!

Join Nancy for this terrific mini album...

perfect for your holiday photos or your favorite cookie recipes!

Saturday, November 27th; 10am - 6pm; $65

Please call 310-410-7272 to reserve your spot!

Encore Class

Saturday, January 22nd 10am - 6pm; $65

Small Business Saturday

2010-11-22T12:23:00.000-08:00

American Express if offering you terrific incentives to shop small on Saturday the 27th! And I'll have special "Shop Small" Specials for you. Register click on the photo for more details!

Christmas Cards with Alice

2010-11-11T12:17:00.000-08:00

Alice is a super talented card maker who has moved to LA so now we get to enjoy her classes, too! Join her at Sonja's Scrapbook Spot & learn how to make these 5 awesome cards & embellishments!

Sunday, December 5, 2010

2-5pm; $35

Encore Class

Sunday December 19th, 2-5pm; $35

In addition to your basic tool kit, please bring:

score tape (1/4")

Tape Adhesive

Foam tape/dots/squares

gingerbread tsukineko ink (light brown is fine, too)

Scissors for fine detail cutting

clear liquid adhesive

paper piercer

white pen

Please reserve your space at 310-410-7272

Banners are BIG!

2010-11-09T16:57:00.000-08:00

Banners are super popular right now! You see them all over the magazine and in the paper prints. This month we'll make your choice of a Hanukkah or Christmas banner! Both projects feature paper & embellishments from Lost & Found by MME.

These keepsake banners are made out of chipboard so they'll last year after year! They're accented with Crepe paper rosettes, tinsel, buttons and brads.

Classes will be held Sunday, November 21st or a special MONDAY class, November 22nd.

Please reserve your kit in advance and allow 4 hours for this class!

310-410-7272

FREE Holiday Idea Book Download!

2010-10-21T11:25:00.000-07:00

FREE Holiday Idea Book Download!

Judie's Story aka Cancer Sucks!

2010-10-20T12:14:00.000-07:00

Since drafting this blog post last week another good friend is facing her own cancer fight again. Whether it's childhood cancer like the one precocious Daisy has been fighting or breast cancer or skin cancer or any cancer....CANCER SUCKS.... Let's not be numb to the C-word, let's keep fighting and supporting those around us who fight! Now back to the previously planned blog...

If you're a regular at Sonja's you're bound to have met Judie, an avid cropper, wife, and mom of two boys, & baker extraordinaire among everything else. I'd like to share her story (with her permission)

*****

This is National Breast Cancer Month...And here is my story…..

I had my yearly check in May and 3 weeks later I found a lump in my breast during my self exam. I went for a mammogram, ultrasound & biopsy. Saw a specialist who sent me for MRI. Then back to the doctor to review my MRI.

They found a shadow on MRI so I had another ultrasound & biopsy July 1, and then surgery on the 2 spots. The 1st was fine, but the 2nd was LCIS (Lobular carcinoma in situ pre-cancer cells). Mine however is invasive & w/ my family history I will be having double mastectomy next month.

The reason I am telling this is neither spot would have been picked up on a mammogram if I hadn’t done self exam. Gals check yourself every month.

*****

We all know someone who has been affected by Breast Cancer and what moves me about Judie's story is how quickly the lumps developed and how she found it herself. We can't underestimate knowing our own bodies and advocating for our own health.

Here is an excellent resource for breast self exams
http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp145.cfm

Now meet Vicki...she's a survivor and founder of Pink Link!

Vicki is gerously donating one Breast Self Exam kit to one of our readers. The kit is featured in this video.

Please leave a comment on the blog to if you'd like to opportunity to receive one of these kits. I'll choose at random on November 2nd...Judie's surgery date!

If you'd like to purchase this kit, please visit the Pink Link website!

Hug someone you love today!

Sonja

Blackbird Kits

2010-10-19T14:30:00.000-07:00

I've had lots of request for kits and here is my first one! It features the Blackbird Collection from My Mind's Eye and includes over $20 worth of products to create a double page spread, chipboard wall hanging and greeting cards! (click on image to enlarge)

Kits include

Blackbird Brads, Chipboard Piece, Die Cuts & 5 sheets of paper

Glimmer Misted Chipboard Round

Four pre-cut card bases from Bazzill

Fibers

I only have supplies for 10 kits to be sure to order yours soon.

Introductory price: $25.00

But That's Not the Paper I Work With....

2010-10-18T09:57:00.000-07:00

First, a BIG THANK YOU to all of the Spooky Blog Haunt Participants. Your comments over the weekend have really encouraged me since of late I've been feeling like the little girl in this classic ME card. So thanks for reminding me that owning a store is still about the creative process and I don't have the let the stuff get me down.

Here's some of that other stuff. Can I just comiserate for a moment?

I am at the shop on Monday, my one day off so that one of my walls can be ripped to shreds to handle the neverending leaks from my neighbor that shall not be named becuase I have nothing good to say about them! Maybe, just maybe this 18 month ordeal will be over with soon? Here's hoping!

And then, there's the paper....no, not this paper....

....this paper. It's a bit out of hand, don't you think? I always joke that this isn't the paper I work with. But I am going to at least sort it into months today....since I'm here anyway....grrr.

On the bright side, I did some creative work over the weekend and have put together my first kit project. I've had lots of requests and I can't promise how often I'll be able to design them (since I have all this other paper to deal with) but I'll get them out as often as I can. This kit will feature a double page spread, a wall hanging and a card assortment designed by me and feauring the Blackbird Collection from My Mind's Eye.

Ta ta for now,
Sonja

Spooky Blog Haunt...Haunted Chipboard Book

2010-10-15T10:00:00.000-07:00

Howl-oo! Welcome to the 29th stop on the Spooky Blog Haunt. I made this chipboard album to share with you with papers from My Mind's Eye's Haunted collection. I cut each chipboard piece in half, added holes with my crop-a-dile and covered each in paper (zip dry, exacto knife & filing set are a must for this!). Then I accented the book with ink, thickers, glimmer mist, rose ribbon & misc fibers, crystals from ZVA and of course, the flocked stickers also from My Mind's Eye.

Prizes

Remember to leave a comment on all 31 blog posts for a chance to win 1 of the 3 prizes from Paper Secrets.

If you are or become a follower of my blog and leave a comment you will also be entered to win a prize from me; the paper pack and flocked stickers I used for this project! Shipping to the US and Canada, only.

Next Stop

Your next stop is Barb's Blog at http://www.supermamascraps.blogspot.com/

If you get lost you can find a full list of blog haunters at

Happy Spook-booking!

Sonja

Spooky Blog Haunt Preview

2010-10-07T13:08:00.001-07:00

Ideas have been brewing in my head ever since I signed up for the Spookly Blog Haunt, but last night I actually got to sit down and work on my project! Its always a magical moment when the ideas in your head acutally look as good in real life as you thought they would!

Here's sneak peak at my project.

To see the completed project come back next week during the Spooky Blog Haunt.

Here's how the blog haunt/hop works.

Start at the home site where there will be instructions for visiting the first blog. The first blog will then have the instructions for the 2nd, and so on!
If you visit all 31 blogs and leave a comment at each, you'll be entered to win a prize package from Paper Secrets.
Some blogs might offer their own prizes for visiting their blog who comment or become followers. They'll put details in their own posts.
You have Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday October 15th - 18th to particpate!

Ok, I'm getting back to work!
Sonja

Halloween Altered Folder Album Class

2010-09-30T13:48:00.000-07:00

Monika's designed this super unique Halloween Book useing the NEW Tattered Angel's Fascination Folders, Tattered Angel's Chalk & Glimmer sprays & Glam paint medium. Combined with that we'll use Crafty Secrets vintage scraps & Magenta chipboard, plus charms, trim & more!

Tuesday, October 26th 2-5pm; $38

Say Cheese!

2010-09-21T17:41:00.001-07:00

We've been bit by the shutter bug here at Sonja's Scrapbook Spot! Look at all of these eager photographers from Sunday's free photo workshop!

In October we'll be kicking off a 6 week photography series.
There are 3 classe you can choose from and each will also feature a scrapbooking component.

Basic Photo Composition $125

Learn the basic ruls of photo composition. You'll need a camera...film or digital. Sorry no Camera Phones.

Picture Your Kids $125

Learn how to use your SLR or DSLR to take better photos of babies and children. Covers composition, finding the perfect exposure, basic lighting and how to stop taking blurry photos.

Back to Basics $125

Learn SLR or DSLR photography in black and white. Get out of program or auto mode. Learn the basics: f-stop, iso, speed, exposure, light, stopping action and more. Bonus: darkroom techniques for use in Photoshop.

Classes will start Thursday, October 14th @ 7pm. Please call me at 310-410-7272 for more information!

8 down...a lot more to go....

2010-09-16T17:29:00.001-07:00

Technically, 9 sample cards are made but for the life of me I can't find #9...a beautiful fall card. Maybe it blew away. But here are a couple more samples for our Cards Mega Class next week.

Mr. Snowman featuring various scraps and of couse a sticker from SRM

Bloom featuring new American Crafts paper from the 2nd Dear Lizzy Collection, Hambly overlay and sticker from SRM.

Another spring card featuring paper from My Mind's Eye, Crepe Paper from Melissa France and...you guessed it sticker from SRM

Trick or Treat featuring paper from American Crafts, trim from Bazzill and SRM Stickers

I'll be hard at work on more samples this weekend. The Cards Mega class is Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday next week...25 cards for $50 or 2 of any 12 designs. Drop in anytime at your leisure, but please call ahead to reserve a kit so I can prepare one for you!

Sonja

From Shop Hop to Blog Hop

2010-09-16T12:07:00.000-07:00

Whoop, Whoop! I'm participating in my first blog hop....

More details to come!

Cards Mega Class...25 Seasonal Cards

2010-09-15T11:16:00.001-07:00

I don't even want to talk about how fast September is going. The 15th? Really? Next you know we'll be trick or treating, stuffing our faces with turkey and handing out holiday gifts. Ack!

Take a time out this month and come in for our Cards Mega Class. This time we'll focus on a card for all seasons and I'm busy working on 25 different seasonal designs. You can choose to make all 25 cards or 2 of any 12 designs. Here are just a few...

Back to School / Teacher Appreciation featuring Sassafras Lass & SRM Press

Halloween featuring American Crafts, Hambly & SRM Press

Holiday wishes featuring Real Wood from CI and stickers from SRM Press.

Happy New Year featuring stamps from Glitz Design.

Reserve your kit and come in anytime

Tuesday September 21st - Thursday September 23rd

$50 for 25 cards...that's just $2 a cards. Beat that Hallmark!

What the Heck is an Ephemera?!?

2010-09-01T11:06:00.000-07:00

Ok, back to that mysterious bag I refferred to earlier. Sorry to string this out...I've been swamped. Did I mentioned I moved again? Not the shop, just me and the pepster. Between that, shop hop, custom work and new orders coming in, blogging has sunk into the blackhole of cyber space.

So, what the heck is an Ephemera? I first saw this word in a Melissa Frances catalog and they looked cute, but if I don't know what it is....how can I tell you what it is! At the mini vendor fair I sat next to Melissa at her make n take and decided to be brave and ask. As she's passing out the Ephemera kits, I say....so what exactly is Ephemera anyhow?

Graciously she answered....it's paper and paper products that were intened to have a one time use and then be thrown away.

What does that translate to for crafters? A bunch of really cool stuff you can make stuff with. Think collage.

So here's what I made with my Ephemera kit:

I'm so excited to learn a new flower making technique with the crepe paper (top center). We also used the Chandelier Drops & Vintage Transfers to complete the project. Sorry, crepe paper, drops & rub ons aren't in the kit....but look at how much stuff is left over!

I'm also super excited to recieve Kitchy Kitchen kits and nifty chipboard backs handy for all sorts of projects. Check out more Melissa Frances goodies on her blog!

Monsterville Smashes It's Way In

2010-08-26T17:58:00.000-07:00

Monsterville is brand new from SEI and smashed it's way into the shop this week. Not only is it the cutest monster scrapbook paper arount but it has awesome stripes & and polka dots that you can use for ANYTHING!

And I love the embellishments that come with this line...googly eyes & die cut monsters with eyeball & monster part stickers. These make great activities for kids!

If you're like Meghan, you may be looking for something to do with the kids before school starts. Bring them in and build-a-monster!

Now, take a very close look at the name of this monster...

Kid's are the best!!!

Back to the Mysterious Bag

2010-08-18T13:11:00.001-07:00

August is always so much fun becuase of Shop Hop of course, and the fact that companies start showing off their mid-year releases. So every August, one of my super fab sales reps, Monika hosts a mini tradeshow and make 'n' take day. I brought home lots of fun things to share with you. At first they were all stuffed in my purse, including my basic tools, catalogs and order forms. Eventually I upgraded to the Trader Joe's bag. Not that I have a million totes in my back roon or anything....

So of course we have to start with Tattered Angels...cuz they're my favorites!

This make n take focused on playing with the new Tattered Angels' mediums in combination with a variety of materials that are glimmerable!

These two cards showcase the Glam (on the right) and Glaze (on the left). Glam is chunkier and has bits of glitter. Glaze is glossier and thiner. Both are applied with a brush. Super fun. My order arrives next week!

I also glimmered the Mistables crepe paper and created a flower & ruffle accent. Love working with that stuff. And the keys from the Tattered Trinkets collections are a classic!

This tag features Glimmer Mist from the Chalkboard collection...which has a more subtle opaque base. One of the flowers I misted stuck to the board which created a great watermark effect!

Combining Glimmer Mist with flocked paper is a stroke of genius!

This is one of many cool tags Tattered is producing full of their signature style. Some even have die cut edges! To create a blend like the one shown in this picture, spray your paper with 3 different colors, starting with the lightest on the top and the darkest on the bottom. Then drag a paper towel down through the glimmer...blending them seamlessly!

Another fun technique is to create your own "resist" element by rubbing a candle over the embossed chipboard. The wax will prevent the glimmer mist or any other medium from sticking to those areas, creating nice definition on the embossed areas!

And last but not least, Tattered Angels has plenty of embellishments that have clear resist details or foil resist accents.

I'll show you more tomorrow!

Forget About the Bag...

2010-08-11T12:21:00.000-07:00

This is way more cool!

I've just booked this incredible class!

It's a multi-media chipboard album that will defy your imagination! I've never seen anything like it!

The Woody rolls into town

Sunday, October 3rd

10am - 6pm

(yes, you read that right...it's an 8 hour class)

The cost is only $65 for this priceless piece of creativity!

All of the creative materials are provided for you and the kits come with everything pre-cut!

Book your space soon because this class is sure to sell out!

I'll share about my brown paper bag tomorrow!

Can't Wait....

2010-08-10T11:15:00.001-07:00

to show you what's in this bag. Hint...it's not from Trader Joe's!

Scrap in the City - Pt 4

2010-08-03T18:41:00.000-07:00

Sex and the City has inspired a lot of creativity around here. First, here are my two make 'n' take pages for Shop Hop. I couldn't decide on a design so I made two. They're available while supplies last!

A big THANKS to Paperhouse for the donated mini photo die cuts & to My Mind's Eye for donating the paper for the layouts! Layouts are also embellished with stamped images from Unity, bling from Zva, Bazzill Cardstock and ribbons from MME's Lush Collection.

And we've had some great entries for our Design Challenge. Take a look at these from Linda T.

Mr. & Mr. from Stanford's Point of View

Adventure from Miranda's Point of View

Hot Mom in the City from Charlottes Point of View.

Design Challenges are due the final day of Shop Hop, August 22nd and winners will recieve a $25 gift certificate to Sonja's Scrapbook Spot. Click here for the details!

Sonja

Scrap in the City - Part 3!

2010-07-31T10:24:00.000-07:00

Whoo Hoo! Shop Hop 2010 is less than 1 week away! We kicked off Shop Hop last night with Mocktails and Make 'n' Takes at the Shop last night. So much fun!

If you're planning to come to Sonja's Scrapbook Spot during Shop Hop I wanted to let you know about some really cool things we have going on during the Shop. Also, I've included info about the best places to park at our mall and updates on store hours!

Special Events During Shop Hop

FREE Quick Cards Make N Take
With Susan McShirley, owner of SRM Stickers

Susan will be joing us Saturday, August 7th from 10am - noon for a special bonus make 'n' take, free for Shop Hoppers ($5 for everyone else)! You'll also recieve a free Hollywood Sticker from Susan. I'll have coffee and muffins available. What a great way to kick off Shop Hop!

Tattered Traveler Class with Monika Thomas
Thursday, August 19th 2-5pm or 6-9pm; $45

Monika is coming to the shop to teach this popular summer classes. It will be one of her last teaching stop so if you've missed the class at other stores, come by and take it at ours! Sorry, I can't discount the cost of the class, but it will count towards your Shop Hop purchases, qualifying you for the make n take and store charm! Reservations must be made in advance!

Special Products at Sonja's Scrapbook Spot

We're pleased to offer one of the widest selections of My Mind's Eye collections at our Shop, including Breaking Free, Abbey Road, Quite Contrary, So Sophie and the extremely popular Lush collection! Plus a fresh selection of papers from Dove of the East just arrived! And we couldn't do Sex and the City without bling! A new order from ZVA Creative just arrived, our largest selection yet and it's going quickly! Last but not least, I just recieved the latest releases from Fiskars, awesome punches and stamp rollers! You won't want to miss these!

Also....

Scrap in the City T-Shirts! $15.00
Our theme, Sex in the City inspired these shirts and we're celebrating being the only scrapbook store for the City of LA! T-shirts are available for purchase during Shop Hop. Once again, I can't offer a discount on them, but I will count it towards your Shop Hop purchases!

My Mini Memories - Mini Photo Album $15
These nifty photo albums are truly unique! Check out our website for more details. If you're insterested in ordering one you can email me your photos and I'll have the book ready for you when you arrive for Shop Hop. Or if you order 3 or more books during Shop Hop, I will ship them to you for FREE! Once again, I'm not able to offer the Shop Hop discount on these items, but I will count it towards your Shop Hop purchases!

Shop Hop Parking Tips & Tricks

We're located in a shopping mall, the Promenade at Howard Hughes Center. Parking is available in our parking structure. There are great places to eat here, making it an excellent pit stop on your Shop Hop.

Depending on the day & time you arrive you will be asked to pay before leaving or upon entering the structure. During the day, your first half hour is free, your first hour is $1 and 2-4 hours is $2. After 4pm and during the weekend, parking is a flat rate of $2. However, if you ask the parking attendant to note the time on your parking ticket and you leave within a short time they will offer you a refund! Please note, I cannot validate and these are only general observations for our parking stucture.

Public restrooms are located at Center Court. I don't have a restroom at the shop. If you come during the day and you see a sign that says be back in five...you'll know where I am =).

If you're on your way to the shop and don't think you can make it on time, feel free to call me. I'll make every effort to stay open later for you!

Also, I have 3 crops planned during Shop Hop which means later shopping hours for you!

Friday, August 6th...open until Midnight!
Saturday, August 14th....open until 10pm!
Saturday, August 21st....open until 10pm!

Phew! I think that covers it! If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call!
Sonja
310-410-7272

Max, Whiskers, & Pepper

2010-07-17T12:42:00.000-07:00

Finally had a chance to play with the Basic Grey collection Max & Wiskers and scrapbooked a recent photo of the Pepster! I combined different prints from the collection, felt border from Queen & Co, paw print twill ribbon, brads from American Crafts and Mini Alphas from My Little Shoebox.

Happy Crafting!

Scrappettes!

2010-07-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

Better late than never, I've planned several kid's crafts for all of the scrappettes out there! I'll be hosting these classes Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday of the last week of July, the first week of August and the last full week of August! Classes are drop in, any time during the scheduled days, but reserving a kit in advance is highly recommended!

Option #1 HeatWave Beach Mini Album, $20

Option #2 Road Trip Quad Book; $20

Option #3 Quick Cards Combo; $15

Lots of styles to choose from

Frame-Ups Pop Up Frame; $15

Lots of styles to choose from

I'm planning at least two more projects!

All creative materials are provided but please bring your own basic tool kit, including adhesive and don't forget your photos!

Projects are for kids of all ages, and parents are encouraged to particpate with children under 8 years.

Summer Days

2010-07-15T14:02:00.000-07:00

Well the heat is finally here. I have a love/hate relationship with the warmer temps. Being from San Fran and all, I'm used to foggy summers. I love the sun but hate the heat. But it does feel like summer finally!

Here are a couple layouts that capture the mood.

The first is from So Sophie and I layered lots of vibrant colors and prints, including the ornate paper frame and sheer transparencies.

This one features paper from Basic Grey, Embellishments from Scribble Scrabble & Rose Ribbon from American Crafts. It was fun playing with different shades of yellow!

Enjoy you weekend!

On the Road Again

2010-07-10T15:19:00.000-07:00

One of the things the drew me to So Sophie was the beautiful hues that would compliment any travel album! I combined these papers with those from the Life Stories collection, also from My Mind's Eye!

Close-up of the journaling area, great for the start of your travel album!

The compass really spins!

I layered stickers on a transparency frame for extra pop!

Scrap in the City Pt 2 - Design Challenge

2010-07-07T18:37:00.001-07:00

So, I was pretty late to the whole Sex and the City phenomenon mostly becuase I was in the dark ages and didn't have cabel tv until 2008....I know....gasp, how did I survive?

I caught the series on syndication on KTLA and quickly understood what all of the fuss was about! What a brilliant comedy and celebration of womanhood!

To top it off, every episode brought such a sense of style and design into our homes! I saw fashions I could only dream of and was always amazed at what items could be combined for such a great sense of design. If you saw the sequel movie, think back to Carrie in the marketplace rockin a t-shirt and poofy ballroom skirt and of course the heels! Only Carrie could pull that off!

It got me thinking...2 things really....

First, embrace your own style! Find what works for you, love it and ROCK it! For me, it's earrings...I have tons and tons of them, won't go out of the house without then and funny thing it...usually get the most compliments on my Target finds! We may not all have the bodies we want or the shoes budget we want but embrace your beauty, your style and strut your stuff!

Secondly, how woud Carrie and the crew scrapbook? How would their own style come through in their albums, on the their layouts. So in the interest of pre Shop Hop hooplah, I'm challenging you to "Scrap in the City!" Pick any main character from the series or movie and scrapbookin in their style!

The deadline for submissions will be the final day of Shop Hop, August 22nd. Mail your layout, bring it with you on the hop or send me a photo! Along with your submission, make sure I have your name, contact info and the character you're scrapping as!

Prize package to be announced!

Sonja

New Layouts

2010-07-07T18:20:00.000-07:00

What to do when you're working and have a massive headache...update the blog! I tinkered a lot with the blog today, primarily adding tags to the sidebar so you can find past posts by topic. I hope that makes finding creative ideas much easier.

The I looked around and noticed that a lot of the new layouts I've been working on aren't here on the blog. So they've all been photographed and I'll more this week.

These two layouts are inspired by the Heidi Swapp Collections from Glimmer Mist which are kind of an urban/grunge/rocker/chic look. Kind of hard to describe, but here's what I came up with!

This first layout plays with layering different screens with the glimmer mist to get both positive and negative frames. I had to practice a couple of times before I got the look I was imagining. Then I used several of the Heidi Swapp "ir-Resitable" embellisments to accent the layout.

There's a stamped border (also from the Heidi Swapp collection) under the ruffled border, made out of...you guessed it....paper towels. The rose is from paper towels, too! And if you've glimmer misted, you know you have plenty of beautiful paper towels to play with!

This layout features Meadowlark from My Mind's Eye and I used the Heidi Swapp screen to trace my crest mat. I also accented with more of the glimmer misted ir-resitable chips. The ribbon is from Lush, also My Mind's Eye. I was going for a "Twilight" look, but alas I haven't read the books or watched the series. How did I do? Be honest...it's ok!

More tomorrow!

Sonja

Cards, Cards, Cards, Pt 4

2010-06-29T18:03:00.000-07:00

Here are some ideas for babies....Baby Showers and Baby Birthdays!

This first set features paper and embellishments from the Quite Contrary Line from My Mind's Eye. I samped and hand wrote on the umbrella and pop dotted it on the invitation. It's also backed with coordinating paper so you don't see the upc code. To clean up the edges, sand first with your precision filing set, then ink.

The inside of the card is accented with coordinating cardstock and ivory photo corners. The vellum insert with information on the shower overlays on the polka dots, fitting into the corners.

The invite and the matching place card is finished off with tulle from Bazzill Basics!

*****

Linda T. made this adorable card for a friends' daughter's first birthday. She modified the design of our Father's Day Card, also using paper from Quite Contrary. Inside, she mounted a photo collage of the cutie and added vellum with the event details. The card is finished with a rose from the fabulous Flower ribbon from American Crafts!

If you're looking for something simple & sweet, this will do the trick. It's a paper from GCD Studios Chic Bebe collection, folded over at the top and mounted on Bazzill Bling Cardstock. Imagine a vellum overlay. The the whole thing is held together with the tulle.

Happy Crafting,

Sonja

The Happenin' on Shop Hoppin'

2010-06-26T13:10:00.000-07:00

August marks the 4th Annual So Cal Shop Hop and we have the most participants our shop has ever had!

Still, I know some of you are wondering what all of the hooplah is about.

Shop Hop is a collaboration between several local scrapbook & stamping stores. This year 35 stores are participating...the most ever!

The Basic Shop Hop Package is $5 and features the Shop Hop Passport which your guide to all of the participtating stores and your contest entry form. The Passport entitles you to a 15% discount at all of the participating stores during the Shop Hop.

The Hollywood (Deluxe) Package is $14.99 and contains the Passport and Commemorative Charm Bracelet. It gives you a 20% discount at all of the stores during the Hop.

Besides shopping & saving there are lots of other fun things to do during Shop Hop. Each store features a 6x6 Make 'n' Take (or Take 'n' Make) Scrapbook Page. This is free with a minimum $10 purchase or can be purchased for $2.50. Each store will also have a charm to add to your charm bracelet. The charm is free with a minimum $20 purchase or can be purchased for $8.99.

This year's Hollywood/Movie theme is going to be super fun!!! Every store has picked a different movie theme. Our's is Sex and the City so watch out for some fabulous Scrap in the City goodies! We're also planning at least two limo tours to several of the Shop Hop Stores...so you don't have to drive!

Last year Irene went to all of the stores! She shared her passport, make 'n' take and lanyard with us! Come on in and check it out! Plus, I just have a 3 Packages left so you'll want to register before they're all gone!

Sonja

A Break from Cards

2010-06-26T11:35:00.000-07:00

I taught this week at the Honda Scrapbook Club again...always so much fun! It's an accordion book featuring the Savvy Line from My Mind's Eye's So Sophie.

I have plenty of kits left over so I'm offering you the same deal as the scrapbook club...a $10 class/kit. Such a deal. Come on in and pick yours up before they're all gone! Offer good while supplies last.

These make awesome hostess gifts for your summer activities!

Sonja

Cards, Cards, Cards, pt 3

2010-06-22T19:11:00.000-07:00

Are you getting ready for all of your rah! rah! 4th celebrations.

Here are some card/invitaion ideas for you.

Irene was in the shop last week and hit a creative wall so I asked her to come up with a 4th of July sample and this is her amazing creation! She made the grill out of simple shapes...circle, rectangle & strips. Buttons for wheels, stickles for embers and tinsel for flair...I mean smoke! Plus, did you know you can add rub-ons to ribbon? We used the giant yellow ric rac for the base of our greeting! The plaid paper is from Love Me Do by My Mind's Eye!

Here's my creation. I used a base from Breaking Free from My Mind's Eye and created a flag with ric rac on a white card. Run your ribbon through your Xyron X for easy adhesive!

Here's another fun one from Irene...but I messed up the stickles....oopps, sorry!

Cards, Cards, Cards, Pt 2

2010-06-20T16:52:00.000-07:00

The So Sophie Line "Savvy" from My Mind's Eye has some great

hues for any of your summer parties!

This card has a simple "double door" design with a handmade flower a it's accent (remember the May flowers class?) The inside of the card, aka the other side of the paper has a ledger design making it easy to add your invited details. I accented key words in the invite with Mini Alphas from My Little Shoebox and hand wrote the rest. Don't be afraid of your own writing!

I found this stamp while I was cleaning and while I'm on slightly less caffeine these days thanks to my pesky doctor ;-) I still love the stuff! The card is also accented with ribbon from American Crafts. Love it!

More simple invites and color combos. Did you know with the single card style you can make 6 invites from a single sheet of 12x12 paper.

Last, but not least, here's another card featuring the Savvy collection. I think I made this one around Mother's Day. These prints show off the more elegant side to Savvy.

Patriotic Cards tomorrow for your 4th Celebrations!

Cards, Cards, Cards, pt1

2010-06-20T16:36:00.000-07:00

I've been on a card kick this week! I'll post one (or more) each day on the blog to show what I...and others have been up to.

Here's the first...featuring Glittered Basics Paper from Best Creations as the base and Birthday paper from Creative Imaginations cut as a wedge of cake. I used Quick Card Stickers from SRM for "happy," cupcake, and sentiment on the inside (which I took a photo of but it was blurry and the camera died....)

I also used a bit of Quite Contrary from My Mind's Eye to accent with the tag and finished with Mini Alpha stickers from My Little Shoebox and a brad from American Crafts Elements. Phew! I think that's it!

I'm filing all of my cards in a box so I always have one on hand. That's the thing. When people know you're crafty they expect something handmade everytime. Now I have some on hand!

See you Tuesday with more ideas!

Sonja

Set 'em Up Cardtender!

2010-06-01T14:58:00.001-07:00

These are just a few of the fabulous cards you can make this Thursday, June 3rd from 2-7pm when Monika brings her make 'n' take Card Bar and Trunk Show to the shop.

Choose any 5 cards to make for only $10!

It's also a great time to learn stamping basics...Monika's been stamping longer than she's been scrapbooking!

Hope you can come!

Sonja

Scrap in the City, Pt 1

2010-05-29T11:36:00.001-07:00

What Prada did for Carrie and the girls, scrapping has done for Sonja and the girls. We are bonded through creativity and community! We share our stories and our scraps, our advice and our brads, our joy & our pain, our hopes and our dreams! We are richer for knowing each woman and sharing life with her!

That's just one of the reasons I'm so excited to use this movie as the theme for this year's Shop Hop as we Scrap in the City. And it's got me wondering...how would Carrie and the girls scrapbook? Keep an eye open for an upcoming scrapbook design challenge.

That's all for now!

Sonja

Hit the Beach

2010-05-25T13:45:00.000-07:00

All of the Tattered Angels' Seaside Collection came on Friday and I couldn't wait to play with it! Here's what I came up with!

I combined the Under the Sea screens, Glimmer Glass and Seaside Colors for this "snorkle view" layout!

Heat the Glimmer Glass and watch it curl!

I combined the On the Shore Screens, Coastal Breeze Stamps and Glimmer Chips for this beach layout! I love the different layers of color!

Both of these layout will be available as class June 22nd or 24th.

Choose one or both! Anytime, All Day; $25.

Kit contains a full pack of Glimmer Chips or Glimmer Glass

which is a $12 value!

And you won't want to miss Monika's Seaside Album class July 8th.

2-5pm or 6-9pm' $45

Here are some of my faves from her book!

Flower Power!

2010-05-16T13:22:00.001-07:00

We had a super fun time Saturday with the first seating of the May Flowers class. Even up until Firday night, I was adding more design ideas to the class! The count is up to over 15 different types of flowers and everyone, even the kids are having a blast! Conner, 6 exclaimed that this was even better than the La Brea Tar Pits!; high praise indeed! There are two more class sessions...Tuesday May 18th and Thursday, May 27th; anytime all day! Kid's kits are availbale for $15, regular kits are $30.

Bland is the New Bling

2010-05-12T12:34:00.000-07:00

In a papercrafting world full of color, these new goodies are a crafters's staple and are anything but boring!

First, Petaloo has launched a line call "Color Me Crazy" full of flowers and other embellishments that are perfect of inking, dying, stamping and glimmering.

Bulk flowers start at just 10 cents a piece!

"Color Me Crazy" also come in pre-packs with gorgeous jewel centers.

I'll be adding to this line so keep an eye out for more!

Bazzill has also joined the basics bandwagon! These are their new Cardstock with an Edge Minis and are perfect for cardmaking or journaling on your scrapbook page at 50 cents each. They have also introduced a new cardstock perfect for Glimmering...120# weight for $1.

My Mind's Eye has also released a gorgeous new black & white collection called Meadowlark. I kept it basic here, but this paper can easily be colored with glimmer, ink or gel pens from American Crafts!

You can barely see it here, but I accented the page with a rhinestone oval from Zva Creations. I also added pom-pom trim from Bazzil and the new Chandelier Drops from Melissa Frances.

Thanks Irene for the title!

Happy Crafting!

How It All Started...

2010-05-11T13:46:00.000-07:00

...my love affair with Starbucks. It was the Frappuccino that started it all! (I started scrapping around the same time...conicidence? I don't think so!) I could be seen even on the coldest days in San Francisco sipping it's icy cool goodness. I spent one summer on a quest for the best iced coffee drink ever and in the end Starbucks beat out the competion. My favorite flavor of all time was the Limited Ed. Rhumba Frappuccino circa 1999 and was delighted to find it again in Thailand in 2006. I wish they'd bring it back!

Hope you enjoy a Frappuccino during Happy Hour, now until the 16th at your local Starbucks, 3-5pm

The Belle of the Ball

2010-05-09T16:44:00.000-07:00

Isabelle from Anna Griffin is stunning with hot hues of pink and lime. Paper accented with glitter and stitching. Perfect for spring, and perfect for all you AKA's!!! Thanks Linda T. for another fun idea!

Short and sweet today...back to Mother's Day treats!

Real Cool with Real Wood!

2010-05-06T19:15:00.000-07:00

Granted, all paper is made from wood, but the new Real Wood paper from CI is in a whole other class! It's craftable cherry and birch in 2 different thicknesses & 3 different sizes.

Linda T. made these chic cards during National Scrapbook Weekend, die cutting the Real Wood with her Slice.

The twig embellishment is also from the Real Wood collection and are "bug free and sanitized."

Real Wood can be die cut, printed on your home printer and embossed. Also fun stamped and glimmered. Lots of possibilities with this one!

Plus, Real Wood products support the growth of trees in our National Forests!

Sophie's Anatomy

2010-05-05T11:48:00.000-07:00

The new release from My Mind's Eye So Sophie is So Sophisticated and So Simple! It's a great combination of luxurious prints and simple staples. Plus there are few new things in the collection. I've labled the layout below...but bear with me...the tags are hard to see.

First of all...Double Sided Die Cut paper, twice the fun, same great price! I layered the bold coral print on the more basic graph paper print for the base of the layout. Also new is the built in border on the upc strip. Normaly this little tag of paper is sent to the circular file. But now a coordinating border is printed on the bottom and EASY to cut out. I used mine, the pink polks dot fancy border on the left side of the layout.

Also, I love the 3-D printing effects of the paper frames in the collection. They add so much texture to the layout!

Here's a close up of my transparency journaling pocket. Truth be told, I never really know what to do with these transparencies!

And, I could resist adding a handmade paper flower to the layout. Want to learn how to do the same? Sign up for the flower techniques class next week!

And yes, that is my Mom, my younger sister and myself in the photo...circa 1987. But shhh! It's a gift for mom for Mother's Day!!!

And here's a sneak peak of another layout I'm working on featuring So Sophie and Real Wood from Creative Imaginations!

Don't forget that I have a Free make 'n' take with only a $10 purchase from this great line. Your only problem is deciding which great peices to buy!

See you soon,
Sonja

The Top 10 Things Heard Over The National Scrapbook Weekend Crop

2010-05-01T20:50:00.001-07:00

#10 Can We Stay An Extra Hour Sonja?
#9 Here's a contribution for the Pepper Cat Food Fund
#8 I FINISHED A PAGE!!!
#7 Oh! Oh! Quick! Look out the window!
#6 We're going to Starbucks, Sonja, can we get you another?!?
#5 Isn't all paper made from "Real Wood"
#4 Can I get the Donice discount?
#3 Put it on my tab!!!
#2 Oh Hell-to-the-No!

and finally, the number one thing heard at Sonja's Scrapbook Spot this weekend...

#1 Hey, whatever happened to Tracy Chapman?

Hope you had as great a time scrapbooking this weekend as we did!
Sonja

Simply Fabulous in Sour Apple

2010-04-22T15:46:00.001-07:00

This is just too fantastic...have to share it with you! Ceci S. came in a few weeks ago looking for apple green cardstock and dark brown accents for a shower. We found the right colors in "Sour Apple" from Bazzill and the lovely flocked brown paper in the Lush Collection from My Mind's Eye. I made her promise to take photos so we could share with you.

The monograms are printed on Bazzil Cardstock first and then cut into 8.5" circles. I believe they used a laser printer and the texture to the cardstock wasn't an issue at all. It looks professionally printed...I have a sample in the shop!

Notice the simple green and brown band on the favor box? So simple, so chic!

If you're thinking this looks like something straight from a magzine, you're partially right. Ceci and her sister borrowed the concept from a magazine but personalized it for their own event.

Thanks for sharing Ceci!

Sonja

April Showers & May Flowers

2010-04-15T11:11:00.000-07:00

Handmade flowers are a HOT trend right now. I'm seeing them everwhere in magazines and blogs. In March, I taught a class that involved making ribbon flowers and it was such a hit that I'm doing a flowers technique class in May! I'm still gathering unique ideas and making samples but I wanted to share a few sneak peaks with you! We'll learn at least a dozen different flower projects that require few to no special tools or dies!

May Flowers Class

Tuesday, May 11th and Saturday May 15th.

Anytime All Day

Class cost TBA!

Eggstra Uses For Glimmer Mist

2010-04-01T12:54:00.000-07:00

This morning, I'm cooking breakfast, super excited about our Tattered Angels' class today and wondered, can I dye eggs with Glimmer Mist? So I washed out my shells, bagged 'em up and brought them to the shop. Answer? Yes, you can Glimmer Egg shells! So if you're looking for a creative way to decorate eggs this weekend, stop on by, pick up some glimmer mist and you'll have the sparkliest eggs around!

Crafting Treasures Await You at Our 1st Trunk Show

2010-03-24T11:57:00.000-07:00

There are no jokes here! April 1st is going to be such a fun day at the shop. Not only is Monika Thomas coming to teach us a fabulous Tattered Angels Class, but she's bringing us a trunk show. What does that mean? You're going to have the opportunity to shop from some amazing brands that I don't currently carry at the shop....such as Unity Stamp Company.

Check out the sample that Monika made with Unity Stamps!

Other companies in our Trunk Show...
Magenta

Earth Art Stamps

Petaloo

Plus, I'm going to have a full reorder in of classic Tattered Angels products. Remember, new CHA releases are not shipping yet...but I'll let you know when I have them in!

Here are some answers to some questions I've been hearing:

1. Can I come to the Trunk Show even if I can't take the class?

Absolutely! We'll have the Trunk Show set up between 2pm & 8pm on the 1st so swing on by even if you can't stay for the class.

2. If I shop the Trunk Show am I taking sales away from Sonja's Scrapbook Spot?

So loyal & kind of you to ask, but no worries there. Trunk show sales are still treated like regular sales for me, so there is no competition there!

3. Will there be a Trunk Show Discount?

Class participants will recieve their regular class discount of 10% even on Trunk Show items, but no other discounts will be offered or honored during the show. However, if these are companies you regularly mail order from; you'll be saving on shipping!

4. Can I still sign up for the Tattered Angel's Nature Book Class?

Class kits are currently SOLD OUT, but I may be able to get them for you if you let me know no later than Thursday, Marhc 25th.

Hope to see you on the 1st!

Sonja

Sometimes....

2010-03-20T13:37:00.000-07:00

...It's just easier to start over!

This was...and still will be our fourth March My Mind's Eye Madness Class...an album featuring Lush. I'm just going a new direction!

Class is planned for March 28th or 30th; Anytime All Day. Cost TBA.

Hopefully I can finish the sample this time!