tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64209085394039776322012-01-27T22:40:05.218-08:00Snippets of Wit & Wisdom embedded in information and observations about the Arts & Crafts Industry as noted by the "itinerant crafter".Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.comBlogger1931100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-19480685499298464112012-01-21T23:04:00.000-08:002012-01-22T06:12:27.193-08:00

I've seen tons of artwork lately featuring faces, so thought I'd pass on a little insight to those of you who might want to give it a try.  Drawing and painting faces is easy as long as you're not trying to create an exact portrait.  Use the camera for that.......  Here are some basic guidelines to get you started then it's just a matter of practicing. I created these steps on the computer, so

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-70495182996664602372012-01-08T20:55:00.000-08:002012-01-08T21:35:03.511-08:00

Over the past, dare I say, 20 years or so, I've been designing inspirational and technique based projects for manufacturers, books and magazines based on the products I've been given to work with.  I sincerely love what I do, but a few months ago someone asked me what I liked to do for me.  Surprisingly enough, I had to actually stop and think...........  and it was kind of an eye opener.  I like

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-46984694022963706922012-01-07T17:54:00.000-08:002012-01-07T17:54:59.700-08:00

January 6th is "Twelfth Night", the day we traditionally take down Christmas decorations in England.  It's also Epiphany and, like December 6th in some European countries, January 6th is the day children in Mexico and South American countries receive gifts acknowledging the day the 3 Kings arrived in Bethlehem with their gifts for the baby Jesus.  My mum always said it was bad luck to leave our

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-40457943558551987952012-01-03T14:56:00.000-08:002012-01-03T15:01:43.772-08:00

You can now watch the new series of Scrapbook Soup online starting this Saturday, January 7th, noon-5pm EST.  Check it out at www.scrapbooksouptv.com.  See ya there! Yours truly, Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-30541054953086298892012-01-02T09:26:00.000-08:002012-01-02T09:26:12.177-08:00

Designer Crafts Connection usually posts projects on the First Monday of each month.  Since today is January 2nd, we'll be posting next week instead.  Our theme is journaling.  Y'all come back now! Yours truly, Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-34001010137038849202011-12-31T20:47:00.000-08:002011-12-31T20:47:47.543-08:00

It's hard to believe that it's almost 2012.  2011 passed by so quickly, I'm still looking for the brake pedal.  The years are picking up way too much speed as they continue to fly by on a far too regular basis.  I've said for years, that we don't start to age until we have children then when grandchildren enter the picture, it's a definite wake up call.  I tend to take things day by day, but have

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-69546620387025730442011-12-28T08:45:00.000-08:002011-12-28T08:45:23.582-08:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas.  It's my favorite day of the year.  There's nothing better than getting together with friends and family to share good food and cheer.  We do the same things every year, so I suppose these would be our family Christmas traditions.  We always have turkey, brussels sprouts, dressing, mashed potatoes etc and Christmas crackers just like we did in

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-4355130547035275222011-12-19T08:51:00.000-08:002011-12-19T08:51:56.704-08:00

Christmas is traditionally a very "crafty" month, but it's also one of the busiest and I have to admit that I have actually bought Christmas ornaments, ready made decorations and cookies......  For some reason it makes me feel really guilty, but I'd rather be stress free to enjoy the fun than overwhelmed with SO much to do, because when all said and done, it's still my favourite time of year.

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-31702126627109649392011-12-11T22:10:00.000-08:002011-12-11T22:13:06.456-08:00

I love working with small wood shapes.  I love to draw and maybe that's why.....  everything is made up of basic shapes - circles, squares, hearts, ovals, etc and these can be combined into all sorts of things.  Check out these simple projects.  All you need are some basic wood shapes, acrylic paint, a paintbrush and some glue. You can find instructions for these projects and more at michaels.com

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-86991447368770949522011-12-07T17:00:00.000-08:002011-12-07T17:00:21.300-08:00

"In the meadow we can build a snowman....."   if we only had some snow. "I can fly, I can fly", if I only knew where the accelerator was....... Hmmm... not the kind of deer I was dreaming about..... I hope you noticed I now have a tulle skirt under my silver tutu.  I also do all my own stunts. Y'all come back now, Yours truly,Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-91723762367033729702011-12-05T00:06:00.000-08:002011-12-05T07:39:10.488-08:00

Can you believe it's already December and today is First Monday - time for another blog hop and giveaway!  This month's giveaway is sponsored by When Creativity Knocks an online craft TV show. As you hop thru the Designer Craft Connection blogs, you'll see we've been "monkeying" around this month.  Take a look at what my little monkey has been up to - obviously inspired by Christmas decorating

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-57127235147108870392011-11-28T15:53:00.000-08:002011-11-28T15:59:31.181-08:00

Just got back from a wonderful week in PA.  The weather was gorgeous and it was nice to just get away and be "uncrafty" for a while.  Most of the time anyway.  We helped my son and his wife decorate for Christmas; the guys did the outside and the girls took care of the inside.  We trimmed the staircase with garland then added these decorations between the swags.  Nothing new, I know - but

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-7035138950279557112011-11-20T21:03:00.000-08:002011-11-20T21:05:00.882-08:00

Visiting my son and his wife for Thanksgiving this year, so I've been tying up some loose ends this week, prepping a big job for when I come back and reminding myself that Christmas day is now only 5 weeks away!  Oh my.... it's a scary thought.  Not sure why it is, but I never feel "ready" for Christmas.  But it comes whether I'm ready or not and each year I try to slow down, so I can really

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-67052795636666092352011-11-15T10:18:00.000-08:002011-11-18T19:53:42.798-08:00

I started on my Christmas list early this year and right at the top is a Flip-Pal™ Mobile Scanner.  It's a small hand held, battery operated scanner that you take to your project!  I first saw this at the CHA Trade show over a year ago, then Flip-Pal sponsored a segment on "Scrapbook Soup", so I got to see it in use, up close and personal.  Check out this video:  <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-55553200827990480132011-11-08T15:14:00.000-08:002011-11-08T15:16:25.617-08:00

There are 40 designers linked in the Designer Crafts Blog Connection.  27 of us also participated in the Sizzix Fresh Vintage Blog Hop.  So, drum roll please Jengd   ANDPamela Jane  ANDScrappySuZQ  are all winners! Jengd guessed correctly, but one of our designers removed the Fresh Vintage hop logo from her blog, so Pamela Jane and ScrappySuZQ were also correct with 26.  I would like to send

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-4187902249490544622011-11-06T20:42:00.000-08:002011-11-07T19:46:08.575-08:00

It's "First Monday" and this month our theme is "Holidays".  Before I share my project, there's a couple of things you'll want to know:     1.  Check out my Scoreboard Die Caddy project.  There's a Giveaway and if you haven't already entered you can do so until midnight tonight, Nov 7th.  The winner will be announced tomorrow,  Nov 8th.     2.  Designer Crafts Connection now has a Facebook Page

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-63065189832778639412011-11-05T09:36:00.000-07:002011-11-05T09:47:11.211-07:00

Wow, November is a really busy month!  The first thing that comes to mind, of course, is Thanksgiving.  Thanksgiving is one of the holidays that is only celebrated in the US and Canada.  However, there are celebrations in different parts of the world to give thanks for a bountiful harvest, since this is the time of year when crops are harvested to provide food for the following months.  

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-26624256790547042602011-10-31T21:38:00.000-07:002011-11-01T07:02:19.298-07:00

A friend and fellow CHA Designer, Eileen Hull designs Scoreboard dies for Sizzix®.  These are specialty dies for cutting mat board.  Many of us are supporting her with a blog hop during October and November by creating projects to feature her 12 new designs which were introduced this summer.  I received the Caddy die to work with, plus Image Stamps designed by Lara Scott and Baker's Twine from

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-2723005197316856542011-10-24T20:34:00.000-07:002011-10-24T20:36:32.366-07:00

I'd forgotten how much fun it was to wield a sponge brush dipped in Mod Podge.  I've already given away the votives I made with napkins, so this time I thought I'd use orange tissue paper.  I cut strips long enough to go around the glass votive and about 2.25" wide - a little less than the height of the glass.   I adhered one strip around the glass with Mod Podge same as the instructions on my

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-70692733125840875472011-10-22T19:59:00.000-07:002011-10-22T20:06:36.968-07:00

Votive candles are a quick and easy way to add a warm glow to any room in the house, 365 days of the year.  Check out these Halloween votives - made in literally minutes. All you need are a few inexpensive glass votives, decorative napkins, a sponge brush and Mod Podge. Napkins come in 2 or 3 layers.  Cut away the part of the napkin design you want to use then separate the layers.  You will

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-47712400831531708742011-10-11T21:42:00.000-07:002011-10-11T21:55:34.922-07:00

Ghoulies and ghosties and long-legged beasties and things that go bump in the night!  It's almost Halloween which reminds of a rap I wrote for my children to perform in elementary school about 25 years ago.  This is a very condensed version; no idea what I did with the original, but that maybe a good thing: It's Halloween and party time, so I thought I'd write a little rhymeAbout pumpkins and

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-22836724070364095232011-10-02T22:07:00.000-07:002011-10-03T12:02:52.731-07:00

It's unbelievable how quickly the months are flying by.  Can you believe it's October already!  Our theme for First Monday projects should probably be Halloween, since it's just around the corner, but come back in a week or so, I'm sure we'll have some great project ideas to offer. This month the Designer Crafts Connection is participating in a manufacturer challenge.  Sponsored by Each of us

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-78805386947381730502011-09-26T09:07:00.000-07:002011-09-26T13:59:47.799-07:00

Back home today, swapping the cool sea mists and ocean waves for parched dirt, blue skies and the hot Texas sun.  But home is where we are and it makes being away so much more special. We collected a bunch of sea glass for Carole's jewelry pieces and I left with a bag full of shells.  I LOVE shells and have tins full of them from everywhere I've been where there was a beach....  I've used them

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-88579421473406580182011-09-23T20:12:00.000-07:002011-09-23T20:12:39.803-07:00

There's nothing more serene than watching the mists roll in off the ocean, covering the tops of the trees like a lightweight blanket.  There's the sound of a lonely bell chiming in the distance with the swell of the waves and the delicate swooshing noise as the touch the sand.  However nothing deters the intrepid Sea Glass hunters as they continue the hunt......  (we are Brits after all and

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-78311899963473343352011-09-21T07:49:00.000-07:002011-09-21T07:50:43.884-07:00

This is what I was looking at while drinking my morning cup of tea!  Now I'm off sea glass hunting with my sister. Y'all come back now......... Yours truly, Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-65504477932434275702011-09-19T22:50:00.000-07:002011-09-19T22:51:17.391-07:00

I'm going on holiday tomorrow and won't be back till Sunday.  I'll try to post pictures while I'm gone, but you'll have to excuse me if I don't - I think I'm going to give my eyes a rest and stay away from the computer for a while.  They deserve a holiday too..........  in the meantime here are some ideas to get you thinking about the December holidays!      I love all kinds of holidays!  So

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-18266250394628730662011-09-16T13:06:00.000-07:002011-09-16T13:17:01.538-07:00

A frame is pretty much always a frame, but it doesn't always have to have a photo.  This frame was découpaged with scraps of leftover paper then embellished with ribbon.  Even the center part was covered with ribbon, but, yes you could use paper for the center too.  I also glued gros grain ribbon around the outside edge to finish then glued a letter to the center!  Not bad for an EZPZ project! 

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-24724939384076695862011-09-14T21:37:00.000-07:002011-09-14T21:39:46.866-07:00

Margie from Chicagoland won this month's giveaway - a set of DVDs of the new TV show, Scrapbook Soup.  Now let's see what's coming up next month: October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and Westcott is challenging members of the Designer Crafts Connection to come up with something spectacular for their First Monday projects using Westcott tools and........... well, you'll just have to wait to

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-9108293583687901682011-09-11T07:00:00.000-07:002011-09-11T07:10:34.699-07:00

I'm loving all your comments about Scrapbook Soup and I know everyone is hoping to win the DVD set of this first series, BUT don't forget the requirements to enter.  You have to list the names of the Designer Craft Connection blogs where you see this logo You can visit all the blogs in our group by "hopping forward" from one to the other, wherever you see this logo in the sidebar of each blog.

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-6770131797136295792011-09-04T18:50:00.000-07:002011-09-04T19:13:40.509-07:00

Members of the Designer Crafts Connection Blog group post projects on the First Monday of each month and to celebrate we also have a giveaway!  The theme for the month of September is parties, baby showers, wedding showers, etc., basically anything to do with decorating for a celebration. We recently celebrated my granddaughter's 3rd birthday.  The party theme was a monumental decision.  Were we

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-2397613674013852022011-08-29T21:26:00.000-07:002011-08-29T21:41:32.105-07:00

What do you want to be when you grow up?  My sister always wanted to be a nurse; she never waivered.  Some people are born with a life plan all mapped out in their head and some of us still don't know what we want to be when we grow up.  Maybe we just don't want to grow up...... One thing was for sure, I was born with a pencil in one hand and a paintbrush in the other.  When I wasn't drawing or

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-24045870451173239632011-08-28T12:33:00.000-07:002011-08-29T06:45:38.424-07:00

I found samples of the bow and rose stencils before I cut them apart to put at the center of the mat.  This is what they look like after you have completed embossing and coloring steps 1 and 2 and piercing in step 3. The pink pearl mat was dry embossed on each corner using the Mini Scrapboss Stencil.  All the tools, stencils and parchment paper are included in the kit available at Craft Lane

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-50744713791316714392011-08-23T16:19:00.000-07:002011-08-23T16:21:15.355-07:00

Have you heard of Pergamano®?  This the trade name for a company that sells parchment craft supplies.  Parchment Craft is an old craft which is basically a combination of dry embossing and paper piercing (or pin pricking) on parchment paper.  Parchment paper is a very heavy vellum and these techniques yield the most amazingly beautiful and exquisite designs.  You only have to do a "Google" search

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-17254514768450810712011-08-21T17:55:00.000-07:002011-08-21T18:01:34.428-07:00

        Have you decided to do something then wondered why you were doing it and ultimately wished you hadn't?   Well it's been that kind of weekend, actually an extended weekend since I probably won't finish until tomorrow and I started last Thursday.  I blame the heat........  I haven't been out much because it's so hot and hanging around my craft room for so long really got to me.  It's always

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-3097071380143719342011-08-15T17:40:00.000-07:002011-08-16T16:57:18.941-07:00

The August giveaway winner is: jigglipuff7575 Congratulations!  Please e-mail your address to me julie@juliemcguffee.com by August 22nd and your punches will be on their way! There'll be another giveaway in September, so y'all come back now! Yours truly,Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-91539690571103676122011-08-13T19:29:00.000-07:002011-08-20T20:28:12.660-07:00

You may remember that a couple of months ago I mentioned that I was working on some decorative painting booklets for Deco Art.  It was during that time while I had all my paints and brushes out that I agreed to paint the Bavarian Wedding box for the lady from Kentucky.  Well, guess what - the booklets are back from the printers and here they are: You'll probably find the booklets in the same

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-10903825101769223982011-08-06T22:33:00.000-07:002011-08-08T18:27:26.838-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS JEAN ON YOUR NEW PROGRAM!        My friend Jean and I have been in the Arts & Crafts industry for over 20 years.  Before we became involved with the Craft & Hobby association, we were professional crafters.  Popular in the mid to late 80's we would design handmade items to sell at craft shows, craft malls and boutiques in the areas where we lived and in the 90's we were asked to

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-69155030911669439292011-07-31T18:14:00.000-07:002011-07-31T19:28:24.639-07:00

Does anyone remember Spirograph?  I think I still have a few pieces in a drawer somewhere.  My kids loved it and so did I!  We would make the most amazing patterns by just putting a colored pen in a hole in a clear plastic cog like disc and going round and round and round and round a larger disc. August 1st, is First Monday, when CHA designers in the Designer Crafts group post projects. 

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-83272868372167926322011-07-30T13:23:00.000-07:002011-07-30T13:25:12.676-07:00

Feeling punchy?  If you are you're gonna love the giveaway I have for August. These are great big punches!  Two embossed leaf punches and a tag shaped punch from Marvy Uchida, and two McGill button punches. The Designer Crafts Connection theme for August is all about our favourite crafting techniques.  Can't wait to see what everyone comes up with, so check back on First Monday, August 1st (

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-14272847360131475042011-07-28T13:17:00.000-07:002011-07-29T12:35:59.288-07:00

If you follow what is happening in the Arts & Crafts Industry, you'll know that Mixed Media is the latest trend.  The question on everyone's mind however, is "what's Mixed Media?"  Like any self respecting person living in the 21st century, I "googled" it and came up with these definitions:  Mixed Media (I think this was from Webster's dictionary):        <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-1770102908734161252011-07-23T21:58:00.000-07:002011-07-24T07:16:46.890-07:00

This is post #4, so you may want to read posts 1 thru 3 first.  It's the nature of the blog, that you always get to see the last post first............  In this post you'll see some individual projects in addition to project displays and new products.        New tools from Imaginisce, the d•stress and iPunch   The Prima booth continues to offer flowers and foliage, paper and

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-83687040603692535692011-07-23T19:59:00.000-07:002011-07-24T18:50:23.754-07:00

This is post #3, so you might want to read #1 and #2 first.  These are additional photos from the show: Amy Tangerine is a new line from American Crafts.      Jewels shows how creative you can be with wire! The Brilliant Bowmaker is an impressive product from Little Pink Ladybug.  This cool line of templates makes bow making easy for everyone.  Canvas and burlap are wonderful surfaces for

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-40940145986198104692011-07-23T13:05:00.000-07:002011-07-23T13:15:20.107-07:00

Back home in Texas!  It's still hot here, but nowhere near as humid as Chicago.  Even so, I think I'll spend the day inside to write more about CHA. It was an exciting show for Julie FF (Fei-Fan Balzer).  Not only did she wow the crowd with her samples of online videos at the Monday seminar,  she also débuted her new line of templates for The Crafters Workshop and, to top it all, drum roll

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-12086497986228966922011-07-21T21:39:00.000-07:002011-07-24T19:01:28.507-07:00

I've been in Chicago since Sunday for the Craft & Hobby show.   I was presenting a seminar and moderating a panel discussion on Monday so we arrived Sunday afternoon.  The seminar was all about how to design then present projects for TV.  I've been doing this for 13 years now, so there was lots of information to share.  Kathie Stull, owner of KS Productions which produces 9 craft shows for PBS

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-41392935831565862962011-07-13T13:37:00.000-07:002011-07-13T14:25:27.566-07:00

Every once in a while I come across a product that I just love!  As you know, or maybe not, I design Elmer's projects for the TV shows.  Project design is always about showcasing the manufacturer's product and for Elmer's it's all about adhesives.  They have a lot of new paper crafting adhesives to choose from, but my favorite technique was the one I developed to feature the new 3-D Pop Up Glue

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-60500402058125646012011-07-12T18:37:00.000-07:002011-07-12T18:37:22.259-07:00

Sponsored by Michaels Stores, Sakura, Elmer's, Spellbinders,Westcott, X-Acto and other industry manufacturers, the new series, Scrapbook Soup will start to air on PBS stations across the US on July 21st.  Please check with your local stations for days and times.  Each station chooses when to air the show.  We do not control which stations pick it up, but there is a station finder on the show

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-91671652579826533022011-07-06T14:53:00.000-07:002011-07-06T22:18:20.093-07:00

When organizing your photos, a lot will depend on how many photos you have and how long you've been taking them.   To start with, here's a clip from a short interview with Ellen Marden on the set of Scrapbook Memories a couple of years ago. Ellen had asked us how we organize our photos.  Beth replied that she uploaded her photos once per month to Shutterfly.  For better or for worse I have to

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-23908582780450156362011-06-30T19:00:00.000-07:002011-06-30T19:05:21.083-07:00

This month's projects feature a brand new product - Tulip Beads in a Bottle now available at your local craft stores.  Earlier this year 30 Designers in our group received samples to create projects to give you some great ideas on how you can use this new product.  The Giveaway this month is also sponsored by i Love to Create and you won't want to miss it - just look what you can win!   http://

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-87477678741350253212011-06-27T20:07:00.000-07:002011-06-27T20:19:31.913-07:00

A few weeks ago a lady from Kentucky called to ask if I would paint a Bavarian Wedding Box for her to give as a wedding gift.  She had seen one that I had painted in the October issue of Paintworks magazine - October 1998!!!  Apparently she is an elderly lady and doesn't have access to the internet, so she went to the local library and asked them to help her find my phone number. Some of you may

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-28563127173375906272011-06-24T10:55:00.000-07:002011-06-24T10:57:06.057-07:00

My nephew and his wife are expecting a baby next month, so, of course we've been talking about different ways to display and scrapbook baby pictures.  One of the projects we talked about was a chipboard album I designed for Elmer's for show 1407 of Scrapbook Memories.  Here's a recap of the segment. Enjoy! Don't forget to check back here on July 1st for our monthly giveaway.  It's a

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-2463129681473403322011-06-20T10:00:00.000-07:002011-06-20T12:55:19.910-07:00

"jengd"    Congratulations!  Please e-mail your address to me (julie@juliemcguffee.com) by June 30th and your books will be on their way! Our next giveaway will be on JULY 1st and is being provided by "iLovetoCreate".  You won't believe the fantastic assortment of product they are donating to a very lucky winner.  To support the giveaway, members of the Designer Crafts Connection blog group

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-24422346654497578752011-06-13T15:09:00.000-07:002011-06-13T18:54:20.473-07:00

Découpage has been around for a long time, but it's still a great way to accent lots of different surfaces and use up all those leftover scraps of scrapbook paper and wrapping paper!  I created this découpaged project for show 1512 on Scrapbook Memories.  You can find full instructions on our website. Don't forget to sign up for the Giveaway! (See below.) The winner will be announced on June

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-49277175981147714942011-06-11T19:59:00.000-07:002011-06-11T19:59:01.553-07:00

This is the first segment of the first show of the new TV series, Scrapbook Soup!  Enjoy! Yours truly, Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-79402432084889210852011-06-05T22:12:00.000-07:002011-06-05T22:18:11.172-07:00

This month's giveaway also falls on First Monday, the day we post Designer Craft Connection projects.  The theme for this months is patriotic, so don't forget to check them out then enter to win. I have two books to give away this month. The Big Book of Scrapbook Pages and Cherish by Jeanette R. Lynton.  At 256 pages, the first book features 500+ new designs for capturing all your memories. 

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-11845104143428340422011-06-05T21:55:00.000-07:002011-06-05T22:55:11.688-07:00

The Designer Crafts Connection theme for June is Patriotic so hop around for lots of ideas and inspiration for July 4th.  This project will make a great accent piece or a table decoration, but the technique is all about creating a "Rosette".  Once you get the hang of this you can make rosettes in any color for any occasion.  Add to banners, garlands, gift bags and more! 1.  Cut two, 2" wide

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-37162323612349407872011-05-28T11:35:00.000-07:002011-05-28T13:10:26.913-07:00

It's been a while since I posted...... eek.... sorry, but this month has been a tad crazier and busier than usual.  It started with a couple of booklets - projects, photography, art, instructions - the whole nine yards, but lots of fun.  They're for a paint company and, as some of you may remember, I'm a decorative painter at heart and welcome any opportunity to get out the paintbrush.  These are

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-47989028438978781282011-05-19T10:07:00.000-07:002011-05-19T10:07:59.220-07:00

TO:  BARBI Please e-mail your mailing address to me by May 26th:  julie@juliemcguffee.com and your present will be on its way. Next giveaway will be on 06/06, so y'all come back now. Yours truly,Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-76656709089193499522011-05-09T20:31:00.000-07:002011-05-09T20:31:33.518-07:00

Please share with your friends too!   Y'all come back now! Yours truly, Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-84141084552256300412011-05-04T22:16:00.000-07:002011-05-04T22:16:23.507-07:00

May 5th is a great day!  It's National Scrapbook day, Cinco de Mayo and it's my birthday!   So, for the month of May the giveaway is a  BIRTHDAY PRESENT - FOR YOU!     This month's winner will receive a box full of crafty products including some cool tools. To enter to win you must guess what at least 4 of these products will be.  To help with the guesswork, there is a different clue on 4 of

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-2342985157288438752011-05-01T20:07:00.000-07:002011-05-01T20:07:47.797-07:00

In a world of e-mailing and social networking, a handmade card with a handwritten note is in itself a special event.  It's Mothers' day this month, but it's also a month for birthdays, invitations, thank you notes, announcements and more - a plethora of reasons to create a hand made card with a handwritten note to make someone's day even more special.  Here are a few ideas.  Quick'n EZ to make,

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-31306516386982688002011-04-25T21:39:00.000-07:002011-04-26T09:56:18.355-07:00

  You can take a Brit out of England, but you can't take England out of a "Brit".  I haven't lived in England since the late 60's, but it was my whole world for the first 18 years of my life and it left an indelible mark.  I'm sure that everyone is aware of the upcoming wedding and I have to admit, that on Friday I will break my rule #1 and I'll be up before the sun, sitting in front of the

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-9273602919876260812011-04-20T20:25:00.000-07:002011-04-20T20:27:20.442-07:00

I was hoping to post some more Easter crafts for you this week, but unfortunately we had an untimely death in the family - my computer died most unexpectedly last Friday.  So sad :)   Luckily I can still access the hard drive with another computer and a Fire Wire cable, but I'll have to wait until my new one is delivered tomorrow to transfer applications and the Easter craft photos etc.  In the

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-71811164255096544492011-04-15T20:17:00.000-07:002011-04-15T20:39:59.432-07:00

Thank you all so much for your comments and insight into the shows you like to watch.  We have a winner for this month's giveaway,  but there will be another one on 0505 - National Scrapbook Day! Don't forget that DVD sets of past series of Scrapbook Memories are available on our show website, www.scrapbookmemoriestv.com.   If you're still looking for the "other" blog with the Scrapbook Memories

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-65889990182587599582011-04-13T20:34:00.000-07:002011-04-13T20:35:53.991-07:00

It's 0414 and we have a winner - is it you?    Go to the blog that features the Scrapbook Memories logo to find out who it is.  The Designer Crafts theme for this month is Easter/Spring, so don't forget to check out everyone's projects as you bunny hop around.  My projects are in the post below. The next giveaway will be on 0505, so y'all come back now................. it will be something very

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-31165735099403931902011-04-13T18:27:00.000-07:002011-04-13T19:33:58.044-07:00

A tisket a tasket let's make a Circle Basket™!   Not just for Easter, these baskets can be made for any occasion.  With or without a handle, they are easy to make from a 7" - 8" circle.  You can also make smaller ones for decorative accents.  Depending on the way the circle is folded, it can easily become a Circle Purse™.   Instructions can be found on a page tab below the header.  This

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-14799146280051373852011-04-09T07:29:00.000-07:002011-04-12T20:55:03.130-07:00

My watch says it's 9:15am (still set for Texas),  the clock in the room says it's only 7:15am, but my body is on EST  and I've been awake for over an hour!   Aaaargh...........  I flew to Phoenix from Cleveland yesterday, but my body still thinks it's on EST even though it went to bed on AZ time - I'll be due for a nap this afternoon I think...... Can't believe it's only Saturday.  I feel as if

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-89626918557376732332011-04-07T03:03:00.000-07:002011-04-07T03:25:29.775-07:00

  Today is the last day of taping for SCRAPBOOK SOUP.   The new show is a lot of new techniques, new ideas, new guests and old friends.  Julie Fei-Fan Balzer is hosting with me for this series and it was a blast.  Here's a couple of photos I can share, but you'll have to wait for the show to air in July to see the projects. I leave tomorrow to head back home then on to Phoenix - more

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-7872745961557890892011-04-03T19:39:00.000-07:002011-04-04T11:02:49.923-07:00

I'm in the studio this week taping a new show.  Yes, that's right, I said "new show".  Series 1600 was the last series of Scrapbook Memories  :(    After 8 years, it was time to update....  I have a feeling you're going to love the new show, Scrapbook Soup (for the creative soul).  So, our giveaway for this month will be a set of DVDs of the final series of Scrapbook Memories.  To enter to win,

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-63326025575604395632011-03-27T18:29:00.000-07:002011-03-27T18:30:41.438-07:00

It's hip to recycle, right - therefore, it's hip to craft.  Let me explain:  Before there were craft stores where we can buy all the supplies we need to make something, we used to "make things" from supplies we had around the house.  I remember creating a whole ensemble of chorus line dolls made from wooden beads, scraps of lace, ribbon and pipe cleaners.  Since it's no longer hip to smoke a

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-53264801389724921402011-03-21T11:59:00.000-07:002011-03-22T07:07:06.284-07:00

Can you believe that Winter has gone already and it's Spring! Before we know it it'll be Independence Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas all over again.   Isn't it nice that there are still some things in life that we can count on. We'll be having a new giveaway in 2 more weeks!  Giveaways will always be around the beginning of each month and the one for April will be on the 4th.  April is the 4th

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-88892512322744733442011-03-14T07:41:00.000-07:002011-03-14T07:41:31.960-07:00

Don't forget to check out the wedding projects on our blogs this week.  There are some beautiful and creative ideas for you to see.  Mine are below the giveaway winner announcement.  Don't forget we'll be having another giveaway on 0404 and the project theme is Spring/Easter.  Y'all come back now! Yours truly, Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-31173604411963102812011-03-13T13:12:00.000-07:002011-03-13T13:12:16.545-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS IVONNE!!   You are now the proud owner of a Cricut Expression.  Please e-mail your shipping address to me: julie@juliemcguffee.com by midnight, Wednesday, March 16th.   My heartfelt thanks to everyone else who left such wonderful comments and joined our treasure hunt.  You may not have won a Cricut Expression this time, but I'm sure you discovered all kinds of treasures on the

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-7413900235872006502011-03-12T21:16:00.000-08:002011-03-12T21:22:36.092-08:00

This weekend isn't exactly my favorite weekend of the year.  Time is precious and I intensely dislike the weekend when we set the clocks forward one hour.  I know we'll get the hour back in Fall, but it's small comfort when I get up at 7am only to find out that it's already 8am!  Tomorrow, however, is going to be an exciting day - it's my grandson's 5th birthday party!  It's also the day when

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-82897428286289357782011-03-06T09:50:00.000-08:002011-03-06T09:50:10.532-08:00

Most of the designers in our group update their blogs on a regular basis, so you may have to scroll down a ways to find "Cricut".  Check their entries for March 3rd.  Good luck and y'all come back now!  The winner will be announced on March 13th! Yours truly, Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-60895849250969660602011-03-03T21:23:00.000-08:002011-03-03T21:28:08.326-08:00

See the post below for details, but  DON'T FORGET    to enter the drawing you have to list the names of the blogs where you find this logo. There are at least 9.  List the names of the blogs in my "comments" section.  These comments will not be published.  Good luck! Yours truly,Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-22180167537797308172011-03-02T20:04:00.000-08:002011-03-02T20:15:05.090-08:00

This might be a long post, so grab a cup of tea, or a glass of wine, put your feet up and enjoy.  This is going to be fun and really worth reading!     Introducing the Designer Crafts Connection.................  Look for this logo on your favorite blogs.  You'll see it on my blog in the sidebar on the left.  Click the "hop forward" button and it will take you to another designer's blog. 

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-19578243753260019422011-03-02T07:58:00.000-08:002011-03-02T20:11:12.474-08:00

I'm kicking off National Craft Month with a very special giveaway!  If you haven't already heard, it's a Cricut Expression!  Details tomorrow - 03.03, so ya'll come back now! Yours truly, Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-10978970795687504412011-02-28T21:15:00.000-08:002011-02-28T21:15:41.684-08:00

The March wind doth blow, and we shall have snow And what will the robin do then, poor thing?He'll sit in a barn to keep himself warm,And hide his head under his wing, poor thing...... There are so many little sayings I remember from my childhood about March.  Another one is, that as soon as you wake up on March 1st, you should say "White Rabbit".  The first is from a child's poem, but I have

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-19762653349950202882011-02-26T16:57:00.000-08:002011-02-26T17:00:13.556-08:00

GIVEAWAY - Would you like a FREE Cricut?   Check back here on 03.03 (March 3rd) to find out how YOU can win! This could be coming your way!  Y'all come back now.... yours truly, Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-60894402520833308322011-02-19T20:43:00.000-08:002011-02-19T20:43:11.859-08:00

Trade shows are a time for manufacturers to show and promote their latest and greatest products.  CHA is no exception and each show a panel of judges votes on which product they think is the most innovative.  I was excited to be on the panel this year (that's me on the left)  together with (from left to right) Jenny Barnett Rohrs - Craft Test Dummies, Candi Spelling, Terri "O" - CHA Spokesperson

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-58631526592358634462011-02-14T20:57:00.000-08:002011-02-16T20:53:42.201-08:00

I hope you had a wonderful day today, surrounded by loving family and friends.  May we all be so lucky to be so blessed throughout every day of our lives. Yours truly, Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-24705171708292628322011-02-04T20:20:00.000-08:002011-02-04T20:21:25.692-08:00

Here are more photos from the show - can you believe these dresses were all made from paper!!!                Sample Zentangles and Vicki shows how easy it is to create your own photo books with Unibind. Trade shows are always so inspiring - the creativity on display is amazing.  Manufacturers consistently feature exciting new products and projects that industry designers

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-9352961936316146162011-02-04T07:09:00.000-08:002011-02-04T07:19:09.517-08:00

 Postcard from LA -  Having a wonderful time!  Wish you were here! For those of you who have wondered what it's like at these trade shows, here are some miscellaneous photos for you to enjoy.  You'll see a variety of manufacturers booths where they display their products in the most creative ways to delight and inspire.  There are Make It Take Its where retailers can sit and make a small project

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-37218892431384061462011-02-03T12:22:00.000-08:002011-02-03T12:22:32.525-08:00

I'm home!!!  At long last, my hubby was actually able to make it out of our neighborhood to get to the airport and we are now back home.  What a relief - it's supposed to snow again today and tomorrow then reach 52 on Saturday.  Go figure - this is Texas.  Now I have to unpack sort thru catalogs and notes and download photos from the show.  But first things first - definitely a good cup of tea

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-22464744806411332132011-02-03T07:55:00.000-08:002011-02-03T07:55:55.017-08:00

We made it to DFW airport last night, but now we're holed up at a hotel.  Hoping to get the Super Shuttle to take us to a hotel in FW later this morning - everything is full here because of Super Bowl weekend. Y'all come back now.... still hoping to get back too....  gotta run..... Yours truly, Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-88909485848156321672011-02-01T13:25:00.000-08:002011-02-01T13:27:44.539-08:00

It's not snowing here, but heard on the news this am that Dallas/Fort Worth airport is closed... so, we've had to change our flight to tomorrow.  Not sure the ice will be cleared up by then, so we may even end up having to stay till Thursday!!!!  Luckily we can keep the hotel room here - better than being stuck at the airport.... what a mess.  The airport isn't the real problem either.  The

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-57931249182613948802011-01-27T17:22:00.000-08:002011-01-27T17:22:47.462-08:00

Still trying to get everything together - today was not the day for my printer to go on the blink..... aaargh!  At least I'm not stuck in 19" of snow.......... I leave tomorrow for CHA (the Craft & Hobby trade show) in Los Angeles.  I always seem to be at the last minute, but - if it weren't for the last minute nothing would ever get done......  it can get stressful though.   I'll be taking lots

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-1479455885500783772011-01-22T08:14:00.000-08:002011-01-22T08:21:52.570-08:00

It's hard to believe, but next week at this time I'll be at the Craft & Hobby Winter trade show in Los Angeles (did I spell that right?  It looks weird).  This is always an exciting show since most of the manufacturers are there to present their latest and greatest products for the coming year.  I have a preview list, but I'll get back to you later on that.   One of the important events for this

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-16514406057356407722011-01-17T15:31:00.000-08:002011-01-17T15:31:30.765-08:00

Making dinner on Mondays is also a Quick'n EZ project at our house.  Here's something you can definitely whip up in about 30 mins: Make "Spanish Rice" according to directions on the Knorr package.  Microwave about half a packet of Sweet Baby Peas then add to the rice.  In the meantime grill smoked turkey sausage in an iron skillet in a little olive oil.  Slice sausage then mix with the rice and

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-89942422360123895412011-01-13T13:06:00.000-08:002011-01-13T13:18:33.360-08:00

Tomorrow is January 14th, one month away from Valentine's Day, so there's no time like the present to start a few crafty projects for this auspicious occasion - and, believe me, it's all about the "present".  You can get away with forgetting a birthday, but forgetting Valentine's Day is a definite "no, no".  Here are some ideas to get you started:  Mr & Mrs Valentine are easy to make. You will

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-44134321510017023672011-01-10T10:23:00.000-08:002011-01-10T10:25:58.811-08:00

See previous post! Yours truly,Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-90486146395204721612011-01-10T09:11:00.000-08:002011-01-10T09:11:45.809-08:00

I don't know what it is about Mondays, but whether you have a 9 to 5 job, or are retired, it's always a crazy day.  One of my biggest challenges is "what to cook for dinner" - and not just on Mondays.  Like a lot of my projects, meals have to be Quick'n EZ and tasty!  I'm sure I'm not the only one who is "menu impaired", so I thought I'd share some of my successes and maybe you'll share yours. 

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-91274361120921696992011-01-04T08:27:00.000-08:002011-01-04T08:27:09.956-08:00

Wow!  This year got off to a really quick start.  I can't believe it's already the 4th!  The holidays have flown by.  My son and his wife left New Year's day to go back East and my sister returned to Knoxville, so the house is relatively quiet once again.  Sort of,  I just heard the pitter patter of 4 yr old feet - a surprise visit from my grandson. Lots to do - projects for the upcoming CHA (

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-86245900410996509052010-12-31T19:24:00.000-08:002010-12-31T19:24:27.971-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR YA'LL!!! May you all have a very blessed and prosperous New Year..... Yours truly,Julie :)

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-211335078314367272010-12-24T06:53:00.000-08:002010-12-24T06:54:43.787-08:00

It's Christmas Eve and, as you can imagine, I am at the last minute with most things, like defrosting the turkey for tomorrow.....   it's still as hard as the proverbial rock.  A few hours under cold, running water should do the trick though.  In the midst of the hustle and bustle, however, I wanted to take a few minutes while I had my morning cuppa to wish all of you A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS! 

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-45275704820713825892010-12-15T21:57:00.000-08:002010-12-15T21:57:34.429-08:00

I hope you've enjoyed hopping from blog to blog over the past 6 weeks to see the amazing projects created by 60 talented Arts & Crafts designers - all using the same Sizzix die cut shapes.  I'm sure you've noticed that our designs are as varied as our personalities.  We've certainly enjoyed creating and sharing our designs with you and hope we've inspired you to do a little crafting of your own.

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-34652418055932655532010-12-15T20:37:00.000-08:002010-12-15T20:37:19.232-08:00

OMG - have to share!  I was walking the aisles at Michaels the other day and came across these adorable little glass jars in the Wedding dept.  They're meant for favors, but I think they're perfect for all kinds of small craft supplies and/or embellishments - buttons, brads, eyelets, flowers, etc.  There are 18 in a box and with my 40% off coupon, the price was unbeatable. There are also some

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-25402358331708931542010-12-08T21:24:00.000-08:002010-12-08T21:28:24.777-08:00

Thursday came far too quickly this week, even for a Quick'n Easy :(    So here's a photo from Sizzix.com showing how adorable the pieces from Brenda Pinnick's album die can be with just a little time and effort.  Rather than totally throw in the proverbial towel, I decided that I ought to be able to do something, so.......  I layered a few of the pieces added my initial to the center and a now

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-777510767599827382010-12-06T21:01:00.000-08:002010-12-06T21:03:17.889-08:00

December 6th is the day we honor St. Nicholas, a fourth century monk who used to leave gifts in the shoes which were left outside the home.  The date is a little more personal for me since it's our wedding anniversary - 36 years today and still counting.  I often joke that I left a pair of men's shoes outside my door and my husband was my gift from St. Nick..... I love traditions.  There's

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6420908539403977632.post-5131553440687565252010-12-01T21:04:00.000-08:002010-12-01T21:04:40.966-08:00

'Tis the season to think about sending Christmas cards, so here's an idea for you.  You can cut a letter size piece of cardstock in half to create two, 8.5" x 5.5", pieces which, when folded in half will each make a "Quarter Card", or look in the "dollar" bins at Michaels for a package of plain cards and envelopes!  It doesn't matter if there's something on the front, because this will be

Julie McGuffeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02091560096629892018noreply@blogger.com1