One of the things I love to do when making cards or gift tags is to use embossing powder and a heat gun for almost-instant texture and glitz. It is a fairly simple process, but gives professional results. If you are a crafter, you may already know how, or have heard of Embossing. Here is a quick tutorial on how to do it.
Stamps are nice, but what can I do with them? How about a super simple DIY that is easy, fast and can be done in about 15 minutes. Make your own wrapping paper and wow your friends. Is there anything nicer then when they exclaim "it's too pretty to open!?"
Being a Los Angeles native, real encounters with the movie industry are not uncommon. Celebrity sightings, friends in the biz, and long conversations about lighting and sound happen on a regular basis. I have always loved the movies, the splashier the better (Moulin Rouge was basically made for me). So, using that as a jumping off point I am starting a series of posts based on film (and television) that have inspired and moved me in some way. Each post will have a specifically designed invite and elements of decor based on the look and feel of that movie. Think of it as if I was planning a theme party for based on a favorite film.
Ok, so I am a bit late on the whole wax seal bandwagon. I know it has been done for centuries as a way of insuring an unopened correspondence. Take a look at some of my favorite examples below. Up until VERY recently, I thought it was a little old fashioned. Then I tried it.
Eight and a half years ago when we got married we were looking to save money on the cost of the wedding. One of the ways was to make the invitations ourselves. Rather than spend the money on printing the return addresses and RSVP envelopes we decided to get a rubber stamp that could be used for both. Not only did we have the stamp for the invites, but now we had a cute stamp for our thank you notes and all future correspondence. If by chance you are having the RSVP's go to your parents address, they will have a sweet little bonus gift to use in to the future as well.
When wrapping a gift, I try to consider the best way to attach a card or envelope. Should I add a cute tag? Or simply tape down the sealed envelope and risk it popping off? And though I am crafty, I don't always want to pull a Martha. Here is an easy tip. It so simple that I can't believe it took me this long to think of.
When I started doing calligraphy in 2004, there were only a handful of people doing what I would call "modern calligraphy." Now there are hundreds (thousands?) doing beautiful work all over the world. There have always been people doing beautiful traditional work, and those that have played with the medium for the joy of letter-making.