How to Make a Pop Up Card

When I think of a pop up card, I must admit, a completely different image pops into my mind, but I’m not the one who came up with the name, so…

Anyway, today I wanted to teach you how to make one of these bad boys. Are you ready?

For your base paper, you are going to want to choose a heavy duty card stock (are you noticing a trend yet?!). I chose an 8 ½ x 11 inch sheet and created a mark at 2 inches, 6 inches, and again at 8 inches, both vertically and horizontally with my trusty ruler and pencil. I then joined my marks to create a grid of sorts. I cut off the excess paper and threw it into my scrap pile for future projects; frugal to the core baby!

The center of your pop up card is going to measure 4 inches x 4 inches, and is going to be surrounded by 2 inch x 4 inch rectangles on the top, bottom, and on both sides of your center square; it will resemble an addition sign. On the top edge of your center square, you are going to want to measure over 2 inches to find the center point on your line. Once you discover your midpoint, you are going to use your compass (yep, dig out that old relic from high school baby!) to create an arch like so…

Repeat this process on all sides and then cut off the edges.

All that’s left to do now is to crease your lines and decorate. I have found that the easiest way to prepare your decorative paper is to simply use your “base” as a stencil. Trace along the edges on the back of your chosen patterned paper, cut it out, and then take ½ cm to ¾ cm off the edges. You are welcome to distress the edges with an ink pad, but it’s not required. Grab your favorite sticky substance and slap her on (allow to dry if applicable). From there you can add your sentiments, doodles, photographs, or stamped images to the card. AND, that’s all she wrote!

Let’s go over those dimensions and instructions just once more for those in a rush:

• 1-8 ½ x 11 inch heavy duty card stock-Mark at 2 inches, 6 inches, and 8 inches horizontally and vertically-cut out
• Measure over 2 inches to find your midpoint and then create an arch with your compass. Cut off the excess edges.
• Use your “base” card as a stencil to measure out your patterned paper for decoration. Trim anywhere from ½ cm to ¾ cm from the edges
• Add any extra details you would like

Well, there you go. Super simple, huh?! If you missed my other posts on card techniques, make sure to pop over and take a peek…

Never Ending Card

Squash Card

So, 3 creative installments…Which has been your favorite so far?

How to Make a Squash Card

Are you ready to learn another really cool card technique? As with the last one, this is super easy to make. It can serve as a stand alone card, or you can pair it with a standard greeting card.  You can also include it inside of an explosion/surprise box, or you can place it inside of a pop up card like I am doing. There is no right or wrong way to make it. So, let’s get to it, shall we?

You are going to need a minimum of 2-7 inch x 7 inch heavy duty card stock squares (you are welcome to make as many as you would like depending upon your needs). As with the Never Ending Card, you are going to want to enhance the life of the card by using a sturdy “base” paper. Once you have your squares prepared, you are going to grab either a ruler or your scoring board. Then, with a stylus or your bone folder, you are going to score your squares at 3.5 inches vertically and again at 3.5 inches horizontally.  You are going to fold your top right and your bottom left in like so:

Repeat this process for each square. Now, you are going to adhere your squares together.

Using your double sided tape, glue stick, tacky glue, or whichever sticky substance you prefer, you are going to apply it to the top left corner of your square. You are then going to take another of your prepared squares and place the bottom right corner on top of the sticky corner from your first square. Make sure that your edges line up and then press to create a tight seal. Repeat this step for each additional square that you choose to use.

Once you have constructed your squash card, it is time to decorate. If you choose to use a pattern scrapbook paper, you are going to want to create 4-3 1/4 inch x 3 1/4 inch squares, 2 of which you are going to slice in half diagonally (I folded mine and then measured about 3/4 cm from the edge to create a slight gap between them) per how ever many squares you decided to create. You can use the same pattern for all, or you can shake it up; completely up to you! I chose to ink the edges of my pattern paper (and base paper) to give the distressed illusion. Taking the time to do this just really seems to make it pop off the page! You also have the option to color/paint/doodle on your base squares as opposed to using paper. It all depends on the project that you have in mind.

Once your decorating session is complete, it’s time to place it in it’s new home (if you so choose). Like I said, you could throw it in a greeting card, a pop up card, an explosion/surprise box, or in a gift bag/box. It could stand alone as a stocking stuffer, tuck it in your kids’ lunchbox, or it could serve as a fun little “note” to leave under your BFF/honey’s windshield wipers. Fill it with photos, expressions of your love, or little doodles to brighten their day. Share the love without breaking the bank. It’s a win-win all the way around!

For those of you in a hurry that are just looking for the dimensions, here they are again:

• A Minimum of 2- 7 inch x 7 inch squares-Score at 3.5 inch (vertically and horizontally)
• For Decorative Paper: 4 pieces of 3 1/4 inch x 3 1/4 inch squares per each “base” square that you create

So, moment of truth…

How did you like this tutorial? Have you ever made a squash card before? Do you think this is a DIY project that you’ll tackle? If you decide to, I would love to see how it turns out!

How to Make a Never Ending Card

So, I’m sure that you’ve seen those wicked cool cards that flip, and flip, and flip, and…

Yeah, those. How cool are they, right?! So, I finally ran across a tutorial on YouTube that explains, step by step, how to create one, so I took notes (on dimensions) and discovered just how super easy they really are to make. To see the video, click HERE.

A lot of people draw on them or throw some pics on them and give them to their special someone for Valentine’s Day. Me? I grabbed some patterned scrapbook paper and inked up the edges to give a distressed look, and will include them in my exploding boxes. A little something extra for that overall “WOW!” factor that I’m going after. Here are some pics of where I’m at with them right now. I’m sure that I’ll do something more to them before it’s all said and done.

Well, let’s get to those dimensions so you can throw a few together for yourself. If you have any questions, throw them my way; I love helping others out!

First, know that you will have 4 sides to display whatever you choose. For the “base” of the never ending card, you are going to need 2 squares that measure 4 inches x 4 inches (or bigger/smaller depending on your needs). I used a heavy duty Kraft card stock from Hobby Lobby. I don’t want a dinky piece of paper that will rip after only a few uses! Once you have these, you are going to want to score both squares vertically at 1 inch and again at 3 inches. Crease these in both directions with a brayer or bone folder to ensure flexibility within the card. Once you’re happy, you are going to cut both squares in half (at the 2 inch mark). NOTE: You are cutting horizontally-NOT between your score lines; you want those on all 4 of your new 2 inch x 4 inch rectangles.

Once you are good to go, I want you to place your new rectangles like this  in front of you.

Next, grab your choice of adhesive-most folks use their double sided tape dispensers (a.k.a. snails), but I opted to use a little tacky glue instead to prolong the life of the card-it’s a good thing my “practice” one had tape on it though, as I adhered too many sides together and it wasn’t working properly, so pay close attention to this next part…

You are going to add a small corner’s worth of adhesive:

Now, lining up the corners, place your “landscape” rectangles on top of your “portrait” rectangles like so…

and apply pressure.

If using glue, allow to dry. Now, you’re going to want to make sure that she works properly. Open and turn, open and turn, open and turn, open and turn. How cool is that?! AND, the best part is that YOU created it!

All that’s left now is to decorate. If you choose to use scrapbook paper, you are going to need:

• 8-2 inch x 2 inch squares
• 8-1 inch x 2 inch rectangles
• 8-1 inch x 1 inch squares

NOTE: Make sure that you plan where each of them go if you are using multiple styles of paper to ensure that they coordinate properly.

For those of you who are in a hurry and just looking for the dimensions, here they are again:

• Base Paper-4 inch x 4 inch (2 squares)
• Optional Scrapbook Paper:
  • (8 squares) 2 inch x 2 inch
  • (8 rectangles) 1 inch x 2 inch
  • (8 squares) 1 inch x 1 inch

Well, that just about does it. What did you think of this project? Have you ever made these before? Do you think you’ll try it out? If so, I’d love to see it! Drop me a line…

How to Make a Quilted Rag Bag

I realize that there are already a TON of videos/tutorials that cater to this particular project, but I felt that you would enjoy seeing what I have been working on for the past couple of weeks.

When I was stuck in bed recovering from an upper respiratory infection, I decided that this would be a fun and relaxing creation to take on. Even when I feel as though I’m on death’s bed, I cannot manage to just sit still; thus, the birth of my rag bag.

I had to hit the pharmacy anyway, so I decided to choose a few new items for my project. I found 3 corresponding fat quarters and a roll of fabric remnant that looked fabulous together. I purchased these items and headed home to my trusty wooden board (my art table).

I ironed my fabric and then began cutting it into 54-5 inch squares (this would be SO much easier if my rotary cutter were sharp!), 2-3  by 27 inch strips for my straps, and 1 strip of fabric which measured 2 by 12 inches for my closure strap. Then I realized that because this was a “quilted” project that I would need some batting and interfacing to pad each square and strap with; items that I was fresh out of. Next best solution…fleece fabric. I cut 27-3 ½ inch squares, and 2-1 ½ by 25 inch strips for my straps.

I took my fleece squares and placed them in the center of my 2 “exterior” fabric squares and dabbed a bit of glue in the center to hold it in place. I then pinned the squares together in each corner for just a bit more slide prevention.

After repeating this process for all “27” squares, I headed to the sewing machine. I stitched an X on top of each square and then started pinning each square together based on rows. I made sure to have the edges tucked on the “outside” of my bag and made my way to the machine once again. Once each row was complete, I stitched the rows together to start forming my bag shape.

Once that step was complete, I added the straps, making sure to tuck them between the “outer” squares on the top row on both sides of the bag. I then added and stitched in my closure strap. Finally, I went through and started cutting “strips” on the edges of each of the squares to allow for fraying. Final step…wash and ruffle the fray.

NOTE: When sewing squares together, there is about ½ inch left open for fraying. Make sure that you DO NOT cut into your stitching! This will seriously jack up your bag! For my straps, I stitched about 1/8 of an inch on each edge, and then did a center seam to hold my fleece strip in place. Plus, it creates a pretty final look.

So, there you have it. Not the ideal tutorial, but like cooking, I just do whatever works best for me. I’m not a precise measurements kind of girl; I just go with it until I’m pleased with the final result.

Have you ever made a Rag Bag before? I would love to hear about your experience!

How to create your VERY OWN Business Binder

Hey Guys! Are you ready to learn how I manage to keep all of my ducks in a row???

I am SO excited to finally be sharing with you how I created my Business Binder! I’ve mentioned several times in the past how much this book has been a life saver for me, and I’m hoping that it can become just as valuable for you! If you have any additional questions, please shoot them my way. I love to help out in any way that I can!

During the “research” phase of my blog, I ran across a post talking about how important it was to create a “Blog Binder.” Not only does it keep your thought process organized, but it also allows you to stay ahead of the game. It was advised to have at least 2-3 months worth of material available at ALL times to prevent scrambling at that very last second to get your post put together. I implemented that in the beginning, but VERY quickly went through my material. I now try to work on posts 1-2 weeks in advance, and this works out well for me. But, with all things, there are just some posts which end up taking a bit longer. I actually have 2 posts that I have been putting together for the past several months; looking forward to their release! So, let’s get to the meat of the matter….

What is a “Blog/Business Binder,” and what do you need to make one? Well, the binder is a compilation of all things blog/business related. I have my post ideas, my research, ideas for my creations, a calendar filled with posts that I want to release on certain days, and so on. I will give you a breakdown of mine a little further down, so don’t go anywhere just yet.

When it comes to creating one, you can make it as “inexpensive” or “elaborate” as you choose. Since money was tight when I first put mine together, I went down the cheap route. I rummaged through my supplies and found a 1 inch binder, some white copy paper, and a hole punch. I then designed my own calendar, punched holes in all the pages, and secured them all inside. I also tried out the color-coded post-it notes, but passed on those pretty quickly. Basically, you choose several different colors/patterns and those will represent the different topics/categories that you will write about. That way, at a glance, you can see whether you have a good “balance” for your posting schedule. Fantastic concept, but a bit more work than I needed in my life.

While a lot of people choose to use colored markers/sharpies to create a fun and colorful binder, I prefer having the option to erase, as my mind changes so often. I can’t tell you how many times I have had to throw my post ideas back onto the idea list, because one, I just didn’t have the time to devote to that particular topic, or two, because I just wasn’t feeling it. It’s so much easier just to re-write and erase as opposed to filling in a new calendar. But, as the old saying goes, “whatever floats your boat.”

In my post, Implementing 5 Changes for a Successful Year, I stated that I have decided on a new direction for my blog, as well as for my Etsy shop. I am in Year 3 of my 5 Year Plan, and the time has come to shake things up a bit! I have been watching a TON of marketing videos, and have decided that I need to be a bit more strategic in my planning. In saying this, I am beginning to realize that it’s about time to invest in a larger binder. That 1 inch just doesn’t seem to be cutting it anymore! My ideas are LITERALLY busting at the seams

A few weeks back I decided to bite the bullet and re-organize my binder, and while I liked the new changes, it still just wasn’t quite right. Thus, I decided to change things up yet again. While my Etsy shop and my blog are certainly 2 separate entities, when it comes down to it, they are really one in the same, as they work hand in hand towards the same ultimate goal. So, I had to figure out a way to join the two within my binder. I put a lot of thought into it, and the breakdown below is what I came up with.

I still find myself struggling to remember where I have put everything, but in time, I believe that this new configuration will make my business run a bit more efficiently.

MY BUSINESS BINDER

Broadscope:

• Krista Kemp Designs-My creations-packaging ideas-shopping wish list-chart of my goals and deadlines
• From Food Stamps to a Future-My mission statement-the direction that I want to take my blog-chart of my goals and deadlines

Idea Bank:
My creation ideas broken down by category-future product lines-possible post ideas-upcoming events and collaborations

Logistics:

• Blog Editorial Calendar-my post lineup-month at a glance
• Product Launch Schedule-a list of each item in my newest product line (broken down by color, pattern, and price), my anticipated launch date, and a checklist for my promotion schedule
• My Social Media Calendar-Sucking miserably in this area!!! Need to get more involved. Each platform is broken down by section, and will allow me to fill in what type of post/promotion/video I will include at each destination
• Local Selling and Promotion-a “4 month at a glance” breakdown of what I’ve got going on around town; from advertising my shop and blog, to teaching classes, to selling creations at different venues; planning to add some local media advertisement to that list.

Food for Thought:
Upcoming Events (in person and online)-my TO DO checklist

Research and Marketing Strategies:
A safe place for all of my super important notes-a vault of knowledge for numerous upcoming adventures

So, there you have it. Pretty simple concept, huh?! If you have a blog/business/editorial calendar/binder, I would LOVE to hear how YOU have it organized!

How to Create your Own Stencils

In case you haven’t noticed by now, I am ALL about pinching pennies and stretching each dollar as far as it will possibly go. A few years back, I got super psyched about art journaling and mixed media. I was on the hunt for a multitude of new supplies, and when I started pricing stencils, my heart skipped a beat! I was appalled at how much they were charging for these flimsy little sheets with designs punched out of them. So, I came up with a DIY way to create my own stencils.

First, I scoured the internet looking for fun “stencil designs.” Then I printed these designs out onto a thick card stock paper, and taped them onto a semi-transparent plastic school folder (you can also use those page divider sheets, but they’re a little more expensive). Then I placed this on top of my self-healing cutting mat (you can also use a cutting board if you don’t own a craft mat) and using a new x-acto blade, I began very S-L-O-W-L-Y cutting out my design. My tip for you is to invest in a pencil grip that you can slide onto your x-acto knife. After a while, the metal REALLY starts to hurt! Once your design is cut out, clean up your work area, and try out your new stencil.

I have found (if using paints) that the very best way to clean your stencil during a creation is to wipe it down with a baby wipe. Once you are done with your piece, you can properly clean your stencils with soap and water.

Well, there you have it; fun DIY stencils. Do you have any ideas, tips, or tricks to add?

How to Crochet-Granny Stitch Tutorial

As I’ve mentioned before, I taught myself to crochet with the aid of some fantastic tutorials on YouTube. Before you attempt to learn different stitches and techniques, you need to have the general understanding of what a slip stitch, a chain stitch, and a single, double, and triple crochet stitch is. Until you understand these, all the rest will throw you for a loop.

I have created several projects using the single, double, and triple crochet stitch. I decided that it was time to learn a new technique for a baby blanket that I had in mind. I searched different Etsy shops, and discovered a Granny Stitch blanket that was beyond adorable! I knew that this was the technique that I wanted to learn. I went in search of Granny Stitch tutorials on YouTube, only to discover that the majority of the videos catered to the Granny Square…so NOT what I wanted!

I finally ran across one, on like page 14. I practiced, and practiced, and practiced until I had it just right. I created a gorgeous white and gray oversized baby blanket (shown below) using this stitch, which I have for sale on my Etsy shop. Click on the picture for my tutorial on how I created this super cozy blanket. I hope you enjoy.

Granny Stitch Tutorial-CLICK photo to watch…

If you have any questions, please ask. I will do my best to explain.

What is your favorite crochet stitch?