Magic Stamp

I know the last posting said next up would be Spellbinders, but I am going to talk about a new to me tool that I wanted to let you know about.  I recently tried the Magic Stamp from Clearsnap and was pleasantly surprised to find out it truly is a "magic stamp".

The retailer description is:  
CLEARSNAP-Magic Stamp Moldable Foam Stamps. Mold and remold this foam pieces into an endless variety of textures and objects. Just Heat; Mold; Cut; and Stamp! Your molded image will remain until you reheat your shape. Great for stamping or stenciling on paper; fabric; and wood. This package contains eight 4x3x1 inch foam blocks. Made in USA.

I had the Magic Stamp in the house for less than a week when I decided I just had to try it,  My 2 sons and I decided to incorporate it into our craft time.  I grabbed my heat gun, magic stamp, a couple of different colors of ink to prepare for our activity.  I then told my sons to randomly choose a couple of items for us to try the Magic stamp on. 

We started with a seashell.  I heated the foam stamp by slowly moving the heat gun over the foam for about 30 seconds.  I then set a seashell on the table and pressed the heated side of the foam into the shell and held it firmly in place for 15-20 seconds.  The seashell impression was well detailed and when we added ink to the foam we discovered we had in fact created a beautiful stamp.  

We also used various other objects including  coins, which we discovered that when you overlap coins and put their impression in the foam they actually looked like bubbles.  With the coins we played around and I was a little disappointed to see the impression on the coins was only minimally visible.

My youngest son decided to go outside and get a leaf so we could try it,  The leaf was beautiful especially when I used both red and brown ink on the stamp.  We played around with the leaf, and saw the depth and clarity of the impression was dependant on the amount of pressure used.  The deeper the impression the longer it takes to reheat the foam to have it return to its original form.

We also tried a rock, a toy figurine, and a plastic baby fork.  The plastic baby fork worked really well but the figurine left a weak unimpressive impression.  I have read that if you make an impression of another stamp (eg a wood mounted stamp) the impression of the stamp will be different then the original impression the stamp would normally make,  I did not test this yet but plan to the next time I play with the magic stamp...tomorrow maybe,

Clearsnap was smart to not just create a block form of the foam stamp but also offers packages of sheet stock so that you can cut the size you need.  Being able to cut to size gives you endless possibilities for your stamp creations.  I must say I do love this product.  I know the Magic Stamp is not new, it has actually been on the market for a few months, but I just recently learned about it and wanted to try it,  So my opinion is that this is a really fun tool that enables your creativity to flow.  My kids loved finding different things to make impressions with and of course like all kids getting dirty is always fun.  I did not let them touch the heat gun but the rest they can do.

I have one warning for everyone...it says on the packaging to keep the heat gun moving as you can melt the foam and oh boy, they are 100% correct.  I was distracted by something happening around me and held the gun still for less than 3 seconds and sure enough the foam melted a bit.  So if you are heating the block be careful to keep the heat moving across the foam and do not accidentally get too close to the foam.

You can utilize both sides of the block  making 2 distinct stamps.  If you like the stamp you create you can leave the impression in the foam to use again.  However if you want to erase your stamp to make another you simply reheat the foam gently gliding the heat gun over the impression until it is completely removed.  Just remember to keep the heat 

The magic stamp is now available at Loonie4scrapbooking for $7.79 + tax for the 8 pack of blocks.  We also carry the foam sheets which enable you to cut the size of foam you need.  The packs of sheet stock contain three 8x10 inch foam sheets in varying thicknesses ranging from 1/8 inch to 3/8 inch.  A third form of the magic stamp is the Geometric shapes pack. This package contains ten foam blocks in assorted shapes; sizes; and colors.  The sheets and geometric shapes packs each cost $6.79 + tax.

The above video will show you the basics,  Use your imagination and have fun!  

Loonscrapper

Distinguishing between the Spellbinder "ABILITIES"

Spellbinders dies-  distinguishing between the –ABILITIES

If you are new to Spellbinder dies you may wonder what the difference is from one category of die to another.  I figured that if I didn’t know the difference there is a good likelihood others out there don’t know either,  I hope some find it helpful.

Nestabilities have been around since 2007.  They are various die cut shapes at 1/4th and 1/8th inch increments that create beautiful scrapbooking pages. Like many die cut templates they are metal wafer thin dies that allow you to cut, emboss, and stencil all in one. One of the major differences is that with nesting dies you have about 6 or 7 that come in a package that are great for stacking to create a 3-D nesting effect at an affordable price. They are universal and work in most die cutting machines..

Grand Nestabilities die templates are a super sized version of our flagship Spellbinders Nestabilities dies. Incrementing up from our regular sized sets, mix and match with each other or coordinate with original sized Nestabilities dies. 

Shapeabilities dies offer the most cutting and embossing detail in dies available in the market today.   They offer every look from ”sophisticated to whimsical. “

Enhanceabilities offer the versatility to add your own creative flair to everything you create! 
Enjoy our latest offering with the Pop-Up die designs, bringing dimension & detail with delicate butterfly wings & playful hearts, perfect for cards, layouts, invitations and more!

From decorative corners to accent pieces each unique die template has been specifically designed to pop up and add dimension to any project. 

Edgeabilities:  Mix and match the cutting Edge with a cutting and embossing Decorative Insert to create custom, beautifully detailed edges for cards, scrapbook pages and mixed media projects. Designed with one inch repeating patterns, mix and match between sets to create more than 72 combinations with the introduction of the first six sets.

Borderabilities are designed to create decorative edges and strips for cards or scrapbook pages, Spellbinders Borderabilities® dies are available in a two sizes and a variety of designs. Grand Borderabilities are 12” and ideal for scrapbooking layouts. The versatile Borderabilities Petite are 5½” long and sold in coordinating sets of borders and decorative strips.

Frameabilities die templates are the easy way to cut and emboss perfect, delightfully detailed frames. Each Spellbinders Frameabilities set includes two nested frames and coordinating accent pieces. They are great for frames, windows and more on cards, scrapbook pages 

M-Bossabilities Folders - Two Designs. Twice the Value.
Double your creativity with the new Spellbinders M-Bossabilities folders. Unique reversible embossing folders give you twice the value and more design options for detailed embossing and letterpress creations. 20 embossing folders flip around to create two different looks! Spellbinders M-Bossabilities folders come in 2 sizes for all your paper crafting needs. Each folder has two designs - one on each side -  for more versatility and value.

Impressabilities are flexible metal templates for embossing your craft project. Use them to emboss the pattern, apply ink to letterpress, stencil through the pattern, or cut apart to embellish with pieces of the pattern. Add the details that make your project special with Spellbinders Impressabilities templates.

With Spellbinders Grand Impressabilities, emboss with Spellbinders Grand Nestabilities dies to create texture on a grand scale.  Add embossed detail to your work.

Cardmakers and scrapbookers alike love Spellbinders “abilities” for the versatility (mix and match) and value or these dies.   I also like that they work on all the leading manual die cutting machines.  I use Spellbinders on my Cuttlebug.  There are a large variety available and we can’t carry them all but if there is one you know you want let us know and we will do our best to get it for you and as always we promise to offer you the lowest price. 

....next up...........

the new Spellbinder Majestic Elements

WASHI????

If you are a papercrafter you have likely heard about (or at the very least will soon hear about) Washi tape. This product is invading the crafting world with a vengeance.

Washi tape is basically a pretty, high quality masking tape.
You can tear it, stick it, reposition it, write on it...and so much more. The low tack adhesive makes it extremely easy to use (and reuse).

Washi tape originated in Japan and is commonly made using fibers from the bark of the gampi tree, the mitsumata shrub (Edgeworthia papyrifera), or the paper mulberry, but also can be made using bamboo, hemp, rice, and wheat. Washi comes from wa meaning Japanese and shi meaning paper.

Numerous companies in the crafting world now make Washi tape (or their version of it seeing as its not actually made in Japan). Bella Blvd, We R MK, Studio Calico, 7 Gypsies, Cosmo Cricket, Crate Paper, Queen and Company, and Heidi Swapp all joined the Washi takeover. Tim Holtz has a tissue tape and Little Yellow Bicycle released a vellum tape to compliment their Splash Collection.

Each tape is unique. They have varying colors (neutrals/darks/lights/pastels/neon), designs (polka dots/ wood grain/flowers etc) sizes and themes (birthday/halloween xmas). Some come 2 rolls in a pack, others 3 in a pack, some just a single roll. Some are thick and have a paper backing, some are thin and transparent. The options are endless.

Here is some info about each of the main companies that manufacture Washi tape.

7 Gypsies tape: package of 3, not transparent, thicker than regular Washi tape, removeable/repositionable, good for stamping on, also have fabric tape available, low tack

Prima canvas tape: package of 3, not transparent,low tack

Tim Holtz tissue tape: set of 2, transparent, very low tack (does not stick well),

K& Co. Smash tape: somewhat transparent, midway between a masking tape and a Washi tape, low tack,

Hambley: great for beginners, 2 smaller rolls and 1 larger roll in a package, wood grain, doiley, script, low tack, can be layered for effect,

American Crafts decorative tape: thicker than Washi, low tack

American Crafts and Amy Tangerine teamed up: this is good starter set, neutral colors, wood grain,ruler,

Martha Stewart paper tapes: holiday tapes, most are not transparent, thin, low tack,4 different sizes in a package,

Real "Washi Tape":

MT brand or Kamoi: available through Etsy

It is important to look at the size of the roll to ensure you are getting your moneys worth. Most of the main brands have lots on there rolls but a couple of companies provide significantly less.

At Loonie4scrapbooking we currently have some We R MK Washi tape in stock for $3.79 + tax. The package contains 2 rolls each with 26 feet (52 feet total). One roll is 15mm wide; the other is 10mm wide.  


We are also able to get the following brands of Washi tape:

Cosmo Cricket: Ruler or Hello for $8.79 each+ tax
Contains two rolls each with 16 yards of washi tape. Acid and lignin free. Imported.

Cashmere Dame Washi Tape by Glitz: 33 Feet for $3.49 each + tax. Available in Chevron or Cherry

October Afternoon: OCTOBER AFTERNOON-9 To 5 Collection or Woodland Park or Cakewalk: Washi Tape. This paper tape is great for borders; layering; and collages and can be written or stamped on for added flair. This package contains one 8-yard roll of Washi Tape. Available in several designs (each sold separately). Imported.

HEIDI SWAPP-Day Glow: Neon Tapes. These assorted brightly colored tapes are the perfect accent to your paper crafts! The intense pop of color add excitement and energy to any piece! Package contains 4 tapes in assorted widths. Each tape is 5 meters long. Acid and lignin free. Imported.
$6.79 + tax

There is also more coming available for preorder.

Hope you find this useful and if you want to learn more I invite you to look at some videos on YouTube or better yet grab yourself some Washi and have fun experimenting...I know I will! Have fun!!

An interesting week!

It has been an interesting week thus far.  I cancelled my upcoming crop on Sunday May 1st due to a lack of comittment but then had 2 more people that wanted to attend, so I extended the deadline for another 24 hour period.  Hard to believe that people don't want to come to a crop just outside of Ottawa that costs only $10 per person.  The last crop was a wonderful success and we all had a great time.  We had a potluck which is what we were doing this time also and everyone left with a full tummy and a smile on their face.  I truly hope it is just bad timing but I am definitely going to be disappointed if it needs to be cancelled.  If you are in the Ottawa area (the venue is located between Kemptville and North Gower) it is a short drive for a fun day.  Two of the people that want to attend are from the Brockville area which even farther from the venue than Ottawa is.

Another interesting thing that happened this week was Loonie4scrapbooking had its first International order.  The order came in from Great Britain and it felt really good to be seeked out from that far away.  We are more than willing to ship internationally but do require clients to pay the actual shipping charges associated with the order,  We ask that anyone wishing to have orders shipped internationally contact us prior to arranging payment to ensure they know the appropriate shipping cost to their area based on weight of the order.

If you have been on the site lately you will notice that we are still adding new stock,  This week we are expecting some new piercer attachments from Sew Easy!  Keep an eye on the Facebook group page
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=134496253257152  for updates.
As well we are in the process of preparing for our upcoming Spring Cleanout Sale!!!!

I would also like to bring your attention to 2 pages that may be of interest to you:
http://gabryroad.blogspot.com/           Gabry Road- handmade goodness buying and selling
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Creative-Kuts/130937843644274    Creative Kuts- Patterns you can buy to make your own embellishments.

Happy scrapping!

It has been an interesting week thus far.  I cancelled my upcoming crop on Sunday May 1st due to a lack of comittment but then had 2 more people that wanted to attend, so I extended the deadline for another 24 hour period.  Hard to believe that people don't want to come to a crop just outside of Ottawa that costs only $10 per person.  The last crop was a wonderful success and we all had a great time.  We had a potluck which is what we were doing this time also and everyone left with a full tummy and a smile on their face.  I truly hope it is just bad timing but I am definitely going to be disappointed if it needs to be cancelled.  If you are in the Ottawa area (the venue is located between Kemptville and North Gower) it is a short drive for a fun day.  Two of the people that want to attend are from the Brockville area which even farther from the venue than Ottawa is.

Another interesting thing that happened this week was Loonie4scrapbooking had its first International order.  The order came in from Great Britain and it felt really good to be seeked out from that far away.  We are more than willing to ship internationally but do require clients to pay the actual shipping charges associated with the order,  We ask that anyone wishing to have orders shipped internationally contact us prior to arranging payment to ensure they know the appropriate shipping cost to their area based on weight of the order.

If you have been on the site lately you will notice that we are still adding new stock,  This week we are expecting some new piercer attachments from Sew Easy!  Keep an eye on the Facebook group page
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=134496253257152  for updates.
As well we are in the process of preparing for our upcoming Spring Cleanout Sale!!!!

I would also like to bring your attention to 2 pages that may be of interest to you:
http://gabryroad.blogspot.com/           Gabry Road- handmade goodness buying and selling
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Creative-Kuts/130937843644274    Creative Kuts- Patterns you can buy to make your own embellishments.

Happy scrapping!

Happy Easter!

Happy Easter everyone!  Hope the Easter Bunny made a good effort to leave a little something for everyone.  Remember to click lots of photos of the little ones as they go on their hunt for eggs.  Remember too to have a little extra patience today with the little ones as all that extra sugar today will definitely affect their energy levels today.  I know my kids (ok and so did I) indulged in a little ummm sample of chocolate for breakfast today,

When you have all those photos developed and are looking for a unique scrapbooking idea then come take a peek at our Easter themed Ezee Pzee  lazer cut designs containing eggs, a bunny etc.  If you are more interested in the origin of Easter and want to scrapbook the more religious aspect of it then you may be interested in this Ezee Pzee package of Easter crosses.

Whatever your preference we have you covered at http://www.loonie4scrapbooking.ca Until next time...happy easter and happy scrapping!
Remember Jesus Christ gave his life to give us everything we have...don't take life for granted!
'

Ezee Pzee

Ezee Pzee by Engravit...Canadian company specializing in lazer cut designs!  Loonie4scrapbooking is thrilled to now be carrying the Ezee Pzee product line including various themes such as outdoors, Canadian, holidays, shapes, the birdhouse kit, heart keys etc.  Here I will show you some of the stuff I am currently carrying at http://www.loonie4scrapbooking.ca/  The stuff I have on hand is only about half of the available product and more will be added as the stuff catches on.

I must say I was hopeful the product was going to be as good as it looked in pictures and read about, but I must say I was definitely pleasantly surprised at how much I liked it when it actually arrived and was in my hands.  The heart keys are a favorite of mine, and before I even got anything online I had already sold a set of dragons, birthday themed set and a gone fishing set.

There's a sneak peek to wet your appetite.  I will add more shortly.  In the meantime, go to the site and take a peek for yourself.  The sets retail between $7 and $8 except the birdhouse kit which is $13.99.  Stay tuned for more info in the next couple of days.

Loonscrapper