Congrats and another Tim Holtz idea!

Congratulations go to Lyn Ohlensehlen for winning the Ornament drawing! She got a gift certificate to spend at the store! Way to go Lyn!!

If you made an ornament for our tree, Thank You! If you would like to keep your ornament, please feel free to come and take it home with you!


And I know that the holidays are over, and we may not be at all interested in next year's holidays, but I just HAD to share this idea!! I saw it too late to share it (Tim only posted it on Christmas Eve!!) but we still have quite a few of these dies left so maybe you want to get one now before they are gone in preparation for next year!

If you want to see how to make this simple garland (you could also use it for cards!) go to Tim Holtz' blog post on how to make these, click here!


And if you own the paper rosette die, he has this great idea for making the rosettes in different sizes (and rosettes are useful for any season!):

Wishing You...

A Joyful Holiday!  

From all of us at Scrapaganza, may you have a happy and wonderful weekend celebrating according to your family traditions! If you or your families are traveling, may everyone go to and fro in safety!

NEW We R Memory Keepers Family Keepsake

We have the March line of Exclusive We R Memory Keepers papers and embellishments in stock already!

The line includes 2 stitched sheets of cardstock including this sheet with the stitched word "Family"!

The other stitched sheet has an adorable house on it!  All the papers are so cute! The colors are fabulous! The line is very versatile, just about any style scrapbooker would love it!  And of course, the wonderful embellishments that WRM is famous for including with their product lines. Coordinating cardstock pad, stamps, tags, borders, stickers, layered chipboard embellishments and more!

I'm thinking many of you will be getting gift certificates this weekend! You may want to come check this line from WRM out! Just like all our previous shipments, it will sell quickly!

Imaginisce tools back in!

The Imaginisce Petal Roller and the 3-D roses and flowers were immensely popular the first time we got them in! So we had to re-order!

Check out this video to see just how easy and FABULOUS these flowers are to work with!


And take a closer look at THIS fabulous card that Pinky made! It really shows how awesome these look on a layout, card or project!
(And there is some i-rock action on this card too!)

We have more of these in stock too! Got someone in the family that still needs a last-minute gift idea for you? Send them our way to pick these up! Before they are gone again!

We still had a couple of the Imaginisce i-rock tools left today, if you've been considering it. Another great gift idea for the scrapping buddy who has almost everything. It's a hot item! We keep selling out!

Don't forget, we will be open on Christmas Eve, 10am to 2pm! Enough time for that last minute shopping!

Movers and Shapers

Have you bought some of the Tim Holtz Alterations Movers and Shapers magnetic dies? There are many to choose from. We still have in stock the Keyhole magnetic dies, which allow you to put a keyhole in any of the shapes in Tim Holtz' Alterations line of dies.

 

What you may not know is that some of these movers and shapers dies need to have the magnetic base tray in order to function correctly.  Did you know we have a few of these trays still in stock?

There is still time to send your spouse or adult kids over to get you one of these for a last minute gift! Or give us a call to hold it for the next time you are in!

Did you know we will be open Friday, Christmas Eve from 10am till 2pm?  Send your family in for those last minute gifts you want!

Be safe!

Thank You Cards Class

 

Do you send out thank you cards after the holidays or is your card stash a little light on thank you cards? We are here to help!  We've added a Thank You card class to our calendar to help you with these very important cards. Make 2 cards of 4 designs - a total of 8 cards! - for only $20.  

Classes are:

Wednesday, December 29th, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Wednesday, January 5th, 10:15am - 12:15pm

Wednesday, January 5th, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Call 563-391-0099 or come in to register! Spaces are limited!

Martha Stewart "Punch All Over the Page" punches IN STOCK!

HURRY! These will NOT last! They are the hottest thing going right now, and hard to find!
Get in and get them NOW! :)

This punch is made with a very strong magnet. When the "notched" corner of the punch top and base are lined up, it is strong enough to hold the punch in place ANYWHERE on the page! In the middle, 3 inches in... not restricted like other punches!

This is the layout I made using the punch (SHHHHH-I am not suppose to show this one yet! It is using the January The Story Matters Kit! Don't Tell! )I pop dotted the patterned paper I used behind the punch, so to give dimension!
Hurry in!! Many shapes to choose from!

Last minute shopping?

Are you worried that you aren't finished with your shopping? Got a few folks you still need to buy for? Maybe they aren't scrapbookers but you could consider some items at our store like:

We have many albums in stock right now. Some of them you can purchase 4x6 photo pages so that you can use them as photo albums instead of scrapbook albums. This could be the perfect gift for that hard-to-shop-for person on your list!

We always have gift certificates, available in any amount you choose! We would also be quite willing to help you shop for the perfect gift.

Do you have little kids on your list? We have American Girls stickers and craft items, perfect for stocking stuffers as well!  Pick up a package or two of Sticko stickers for those kiddie stockings, we have all sorts of themes!

Are you still working on handmade gifts for the special people in your life, but find it difficult to get them finished? Maybe you need to get away from the distractions at home and come to our Cropaganza on friday night! This friday is the last Cropaganza of the year, your last chance to get some serious crafting done. It's only $5 and you get a drink/snacks and 15% off anything you purchase that night. Call today to reserve your spot!

Sizzix "Die of the Month" Class!

Do you have a Sizzix Big Shot? Do you know about our Sizzix Die of the Month class yet? Well you should! :)  Our Design Divas design 3 projects with a Sizzix die every month, and if you sign up for the class you get the die and get to do 3 projects, all for only $24.99!!! The die itself retail price for $19.99 so it's a real bargain!

You'll be making the Snowflake wreath above, as well as this beautiful layout and a card. 


Don't miss out on this class, limited space and only TWO spaces left!

Preserve the Past 7

Oh scrappers! Have you been taking Design Diva Alisa's Preserve the Past Class series? If you haven't, you really need to check this class out! And if you have been taking the class, you are going to LOVE the layouts she has for you this month!  Look at the quilt-like page above with the beautiful roses!

This page uses a vintage bedspread to make the flower!

I am so in love with this one. This photo does not do the colors justice. You really need to see it in person. Just stunning.

Preserve the past is only $25 and classes are on Wednesday December 15th, 5:30pm-8pm and Saturday December 18, 10:15am to 12:30pm. Sign up soon as kits are limited!

Think OUTSIDE the Box!

Isn't this lovely!  What is this you ask?  It is one of Tim Holtz Configurations boxes that we carry, but this artist came up with an idea OUTSIDE the box!  That's right, instead of putting all the little boxes inside the main box they came in, she attached them all outside, after decorating them.  Imagine putting your own family photo in the main box and decorating it with keepsakes of your family, your kid's school year or your latest family vacation?
The artist is Laura and her blog is The Paper Trail. 

Here are a few other examples that she did with boxes from the Configurations. I especially like these little ornament ideas with single boxes!

We still have Configurations boxes available! You still have time if you are thinking about using them for holiday decorations or gifts! Come in now to get yours!

New line of Breast Cancer Paper/Stickers!

You've been asking, and we heard!  We have a new line of Breast Cancer awareness paper and embellishments in just this week!  The line is from Melissa Frances and it's just lovely!

There are 5 sheets of printed cardstock. 2 Different sheets of stickers and a pad of tickets and journaling cards.

Stop in soon!

Imaginisce Holiday layouts Class!!!

Design Diva Penny is ready to show you how to make these BEAUTIFUL Holiday layouts!

You can take this class THIS Saturday, December 11th from 1pm to 3pm for just $20!  TWO 2-Page layouts and a 1 page layout! Wow, what a deal!  
We also have an alternate class date on Tuesday, December 21, 3-5pm.

All three layouts are made with New Imaginisce product which is provided. Just bring your basic scrapbooking supplies (trimmer, scissors, tape adhesive, glue, xyron sticker maker if you have one!). Design Diva Penny is on the Imaginisce Design Team, and can show you all the latest fabulousness from Imaginisce!


Sign up NOW!  Come in or call 563-391-0099 to register!

The Story Matters December!

This is a FABULOUS kit you do NOT want to miss!
Custom buttons by Charlene's Button Box,
custom journaling cards from etsy, FAB new product...
(There is the most AWESOME little journaling pen this month!)
Limited quantities, so come get your December The Story Matters Kit TODAY!
Just $24.99!!
And do not miss visiting The Story Matters blog for all the designers FANTASTIC layouts and projects!

There are challenges EACH week, "card day" twice a month, and a ton of FABULOUS inspiration!

So come join us! Because YOUR story matters!

Holiday Ideas HERE!

WOW!  Did you make it to the Holiday Open House today?  If you didn't, we're leaving everything out so you can come see it on Sunday too! Because we had SO many wonderful things to share with you, we want to be sure you all have a chance to come see it!


And we want to THANK you, our awesome customers, for your generosity!  Look at this! Full and OVERFLOWING! We feel the love! The Toys for Tots was an astounding success!  

And we've drawn the WINNER of the $100 Gift Certificate!

CONGRATULATIONS PHYLLIS OLSON!

Happy Shopping to you! 


And now, please enjoy this little slide-show of some of the many holiday ideas we have for you at Scrapaganza!

Kudos to Vikki Tucker & Linda Cain!

It's not just Design Divas that are getting published! Scrapaganza Friends are getting published too!  In the Winter edition of Somerset Studio, Vikki Tucker and Linda Cain are featured with fabulous projects!

Vikki Tucker has a FOUR PAGE spread with this stunning vintage hanky book. You really need to check this out! It's fabulous!  Congratulations Vikki, we are in AWE!

Linda Cain, who has taught classes at Scrapaganza, has this beautiful mini-book in the magazine. I just love this, some of my favorite colors. Just stunning!  Congratulations Linda!


If you are looking for this magazine, we currently do not carry this at Scrapaganza, but Barnes & Noble down the street has it in their magazine department. Go check it out!


Don't forget!!! Our Holiday Open House is SATURDAY, 10am! Bring your Scrapaganza bag for 40% off one item!

New We R Memory Keepers!

I know, right! Valentine's stuff already!  This is the new line from We R Memory Keepers, called Be My Valentine. GORGEOUS papers!  You really must check out the sheet of white stitched paper, it says "true love" in stitching!  The die cut sheets are adorable. There are many papers in this line suitable for non-valentine layouts or paper crafts, so don't dismiss this line if you aren't into Valentine's Day. The stamps are ADORABLE and the tags too! I really like the white flocked paper "lace". It looks like stems perhaps... and I think would look cute on Christmas layouts as well (no rules you can't use embellishments with other lines of paper!)

Just to show you that it doesn't have to be all about the valentines, here's a layout from Design Diva Michele using this line for a page that has nothing to do with valentines!

Happy Shopping!

The Story Matters-stamping tutorial...

Do NOT miss the information on the open house below!

You do NOT want to miss coming this Saturday!!
Classes, Ideas, chocolate, and FUN!

AND the 40% off with your Scrapaganza Bag! YAY!

OK, I just wanted to point out a technique we are sharing on The Story Matters.
If you are like me, you have a TON of stamps!
Well this technique gives you more mileage from that collection of yours!
Come check it out! (click Here)
December The Story Matters is launching on December 5th! Do NOT miss out!

Holiday Open House!

Join us on Saturday, 

December 4th from 10am to 6pm for our annual 

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE!

.

We will have amazing gift ideas, classes and kits available for you to sign up for or purchase!

. 

We will also have snacks, drinks and of course...

CHOCOLATE!

.  

Don't forget your TOYS FOR TOTS unwrapped gift!

We will have the drawing for a $100 

Scrapaganza Gift Certificate at 4pm!

. 

Also, bring in a handmade ornament for our Scrapaganza Christmas Tree and be entered to win a $50 gift certificate to be awarded on Sunday, December 19th at 5pm.

. 

Are you a Scrapaganza bag owner? Bring your bag on Saturday and get 40% off one item!

. 

See you Saturday!

I know. Not AGAIN! (And a Challenge!)

Design Diva Penny here! I would like to share with you my current layout in December's Scrapbook Trends! This is one of my favorite layouts this year.
Why? Because it was simple, and because in one page I was able to show some of the highlights of the year. I am sure to treasure this glimpse into 2009!

So I challenge you... do a layout in review of your year! It can be a 2 pager, if you'd prefer.
Get them to us by link in the comments, or email ME @ pennyscrapbooks@aol.com!
I will be picking one of the challenge winners to a prize pack on January 1st! I have a TON of great stuff, having just gone through my scrap room! Let's say to start, it will have a pack/stack of Coordinations Cardstock! OK, let's see those layouts!!

And don't forget to come get a copy of Scrapbook Trends at the store!
AND come by and sign up for one of my two classes in December! They will be available for viewing at Scrapaganza's Holiday Open House THIS Saturday!

Shop till you DROP Monday!

Don't forget, Mondays are always Shop till you Drop!  Bring in your Scrapaganza bag for 10% off everything you buy!  Forget to pick something up at Scrapaganza this weekend or were you just too busy shopping or being with family? Monday is the perfect time to get those necessities like adhesive, cardstock or inks. Especially now, if you are putting together last minute holiday cards!


Don't have a Scrapaganza bag yet? You can buy one for $10. That will qualify you for all bag sales that we have! 


Keep an eye on the blog this week for information about our Holiday Open House, new product and upcoming sales!

Adorn Our Tree!

Oh my! Just LOOK at this poor, forlorn tree! It's NAKED!


Please help us decorate this poor naked tree! Bring us a handmade ornament for our tree, and we'll add your name to a drawing for a Scrapaganza Gift Certificate! For every ornament you bring, you get another chance in the drawing!  We'll put names in through December 19th, so don't forget!


There is still time to bring in a brand new toy for the Toys for Tots drive. If you bring in a toy, we'll put your name in for a drawing for a $100 gift certificate for the store as well. For every toy you bring, we'll your name in the drawing! This contest ends on December 4th, so hurry!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

 From all of us, to you and yours, we wish you a Happy and Bountiful Thanksgiving! 

Petaloo!

We have new flowers in stock! We saw these lovelies from Petaloo while we were at the Craft and Hobby Association trade show in the summer.  Now some of these you won't be able to find in the big box stores. Petaloo made some of them exclusive to the smaller stores like Scrapaganza. So come check them out while they are in stock!

We've also restocked many items! Some just in time for our Black Friday sales! Albums are restocked! Lots of colors to choose from! So if you plan to buy, get to the store early! We open at 11am on Friday!

Only a couple spots left for our Black Friday Crop! Call right away if you want to get in!

SEW EASY - Product Review

We have a totally new product in for you to try! It is the Sew Easy Paper Piercing Tool and it's accessories! The manufacturer is We R Memory Keepers, makers of the lovely monthly paper lines we get every month and the beautiful leather albums that are a favorite of many customers.


The store received our shipment of Sew Easy product on Friday, and I thought I'd take a spin with them to try them out and review them for you!  Many of our customers have expressed how they love the look of sewing on scrapbook pages and cards, but they don't want to use a sewing machine to achieve the look. A paper piercer is fine for straight lines or circles with a template, but it's difficult to achieve a more complicated pattern to mimic the zig zag or other stitches available on machines.  Well, We R Memory Keepers has solved that problem for you!


The paper piercing tool retails for $7.99 and comes with the handle, a straight line piercer and a needle (when you open the package, watch out for that needle making a leap for freedom!).  The piercer head comes off, just give it a little twist and pull, and you can switch it out for one of 6 other piercing heads in different patterns. There is also a mat available so that as you roll the piercer over your paper, the mat protects your work surface as well as providing the give necessary for the piercer to poke the paper. The piercing heads come in 6 patterns as I said, for example: a scallop border, zig zag, a "star" or "snowflake" and others. The back of the piercing head package gives 3 examples of how you can change the sewing pattern to make it look different, so save your package back! You can also come up with different sewing patterns on your own if you like, so  these tools are very versatile!


Now for my review! I bought everything so I could give it a good try out. However, one of the first questions I got on friday from customers was: Do you really have to buy the mat?  So to answer that question, I got out a self-healing mat, a piece of spongy foam packing, a mouse pad and two widths of corrugated cardboard (very thin and standard width).  Using scrap bazzill cardstock, I tested each one with the straight piercer head. The only one of those items that worked was the corrugated cardboard, and only if you went along the "grain" of the corrugations. HOWEVER: I then tested the "star" or "snowflake" pattern on those items and it did not work at all. So, my conclusion is that if all you ever use is the straight piercing head, you could use corrugated cardboard as your mat. But if you use the other patterned piercing heads, you really NEED a paper piercing mat under your paper.  If you already have the Bazzill In Stitches mat, I'm sure that one will work just fine.


Here are some cards I made using the Sew Easy tools, and a few tips I learned and will pass along!

I just love scallops, don't you? I had to use the scallop border. Now, here I used the scallop AND the straight piercers. The first thing I learned is that the piercer probably won't go entirely through cardstock unless you press really hard on it, BUT you do NOT want to press really hard or you risk ripping the cardstock. When I practiced with the piercer, I found that it seemed the intent was to lay down a pattern as a guide for you to stitch through. The very tips of the piercer usually pierced the cardstock but you don't get big holes, so you do have to actually poke your needle through. Also, the piercer cannot poke through two layers of cardstock. You can use it on 2 layers but you will only get a pattern as a guide, which was fine for me doing this project, but you should be aware of it!


Also, the floss that is available from this product line would probably work better if you separate the floss... don't use all 6 strands. Use 3 or 2. The thicker your thread and needle, the greater risk you run of ripping through the paper or cardstock you are sewing through, especially the more intricate patterns (see my comments below). On these cards, I used string, and it was a bit too thick for my tastes. I'd rather have had 2 strands of the floss instead, but I didn't want to break open a package just for 2 cards.  Otherwise, I *loved* this tool. Frankly, piercing one hole at a time with a template takes almost as long as the sewing... I'd rather do the piercing with these piercers any day, and save my time for the sewing! Which did not really take me that long by the way.

On the bottom there is the pattern "star" or "snowflake". It's called "Burst" on the package. I love it! But here's what I learned using it:
Definitely you need thinner floss than the string I used or the full strand of floss. Split the floss, it will definitely look better!
I stitched only through one layer of paper, and it was thick cardstock. It cracked easily. My mistake! Use this pattern on thinner cardstock or paper. And don't press really hard as you roll it over the paper. (practice with scraps) I found with this pattern and the thick cardstock and thick string that it was almost too much for the cardstock and there was some ripping between the pierced holes. I fixed this easily by putting some scotch tape over the bursts after I'd sewn them, as I had two bursts start to come apart. You can't tell though once I put the tape on the back to hold them. I think if I'd used thinner floss that this whole project would have looked better. 


You can see the Sew Easy products in the store now! Take a look at the cards, they are with the product. If you've been looking for an easier way to pierce patterns quickly, and a more portable, easier to use tool than a sewing machine, the Sew Easy tools are it! I highly recommend them!