Thursday, February 27, 2014

Blog Anniversary Celebration Winding Up


Friday marks the end of February and the end of my 6th Anniversary Blog Celebration.  I have enjoyed the fun of collecting things for the boxes and reading your comments each day.  Today I have a quick recap of the contents of the boxes - I bet you have already forgotten about some of the early additions.

Here they are by day - if the item in each box is not identical there will be a photo of three similar items and one of them will be in each box.

12 x 12 20 sheet pack of Core'dinations Core Couture glitter cardstock

heart patterned washi tape

Garnet and Peridot Martha Stewart glitter embossing powder

Martha Stewart Hearts and Flowers Stamp set
all of the pieces needed to make this card (one card kit has a starfish instead of this fish)
also a full sheet and a cut up sheet of this printed cardstock
one of these three sets of special German gift paper for making wreaths (and other things)
Fabric Flower Florettes by Webster's Pages

a set of winter sparkles and...
...one of these sequin butterflies
Three yards of each of these three ribbons, ladybugs, gingham and birthday balloons

No photo yet (my machine should arrive on Friday) but the next item is a selection of scalloped shapes cut by my new Explore - I want to test out these circles and scallops!

http://joytracey.ctmh.com/

This Friend stamp was added by my friend Joy - you can check out her blog, Obsessed with Scrapbooking HERE and her CTMH website HERE


some pretty charms from my local antique shop


Martha Stewart Birthday Brads
Five little muslin bags

a set of five bags and a sheet of the Square1 Iron on printable fabric (oh and a spare bit of ribbon tying up the bags!)

pink and blue baby borders for pages or cards

a sheet of Graphic 45 Christmas Emporium chipboard shapes


a dozen vintage look 2  1/2 x 3 1/2 inch cards and

one of these 2 1/2 x 3 1/2 inch matchbook notebooks by TIm Holtz

Today I am adding a paper album kit.  These were sold by Creative Memories and they are a lot of fun to put together.  You can use the paper album as an elaborate card for someone.


The kit comes with an envelope if you decide to mail it to a friend or family member.  All of these papers, die cuts and stickers are included.


I have also included a brand new mini tape runner so all you will need to make the album is some photos and a pen.


The album cover is printed with a shiny pattern - it show up more noticeably in bright light.


Yes, those boxes look pretty full - there will be one final little goodie on Friday.

I didn't receive my new Explore machine today but it is scheduled for delivery sometime tomorrow.  I had a quick look around at the Design Space and I will share my thoughts on that as soon as I can test a few things.

If you have a new Explore and have questions about it, be sure to see the very detailed and helpful FAQs on the Cricut.com site - you can find them HERE.


 How do you play along in the blog celebration giveaway?

To enter for a chance to win one of the three boxes - see all of the details on the first blog celebration post HERE.  Then come back and get your comments in on this post.  Remember, if you sign up for the new newsletter (see the box at the top right of the page) I will be choosing one person from the subscribers as a box winner (you don't need to leave a comment here since I can see that list).

Today's question to answer in your comment is:

Do you prefer to create a project "from scratch" - choosing and assembling a variety of bits and pieces to create a unique result or do you prefer to have most of the decisions made for you and work from a kit or a set of detailed instructions.  Some people relax by having the creative freedom to "do their own thing" while others enjoy the process much more when they have a firm guide to lead them to the finished project.  Would you rather attend a class that taught you techniques that you could use on any project or one that takes you step by step through the creation of a really great piece of art?  No right or wrong answer - the whole point is to have your crafting time be enjoyable for you!

Subscribe to Capadia Designs if you would like to have new posts delivered directly to your email. 

This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product using the link I may receive a commission. I only participate in affiliate programs for products that I use or can recommend without reservation.

73 comments:

  1. Wow...what a basket full of goodies!!! Most of my work is pulling out different 'whatevers' and putting together something that I think works. I start with an image in my mind, but then run with it. Say I see an image in my mind of a card with a flower pot and flowers..Ok, but now I look at what I can use for flowers, embellishments, style, etc. I never know where it's going, but I seem to have a 'plan'..lol I like learning techniques rather than doing one project. I don't mind learning and working on a project if it's something that I could use, but not much into paper 3D projects that are cute, but for me not functional; like a one time table decoration.

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  2. The only way to answer that is I like both. I have taken classes where you make a whole project and loved it and I have taken classes to learn new techniques. Both are fun and I wish I had time to do more. At home I prefer to make things from scratch usually using elements from a collection or kit with my own creativity thrown in.

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  3. Diane, I have a comment about the new Cricut machine and design software. It's my understanding that in order to use the machine and software with the images on the cartridges I already own, I have to pay more money. Is that correct? Or am I able to "link" my cartridges as I do on my Gypsy and Cricut Craft Room?

    Thanks for clarifying.
    Evelyn

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  4. Don't know why I always get your newsletter a day later. This is Friday here now for me and your date says Thursday. Oh, well at least I receive your email newsletter even if I'm behind .
    Me, I like to do things from scratch most of the time but there are times when detailed instructions are nice but I still end up putting my own spin on things.
    Want to thank you for this Blog Anniversary Celebration. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
    Have an enjoyable weekend.
    ColleenB,
    Texas

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  5. I enjoy the "thrill of the hunt" and mostly make my own creations. I think I would enjoy trying a kit, but haven't had the chance, yet. Your boxes look wonderful, and whoever wins will surely have great fun with them. Thank you for all the ideas that you provide. BethAnn M.

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  6. I like most of the decisions made for me. I'm not the most creative person and am always fascinated by what other create :)

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  7. Wow, so many goodies! Thanks for the fun. Enjoyed looking through the comments. I work from scratch, but like to be inspired by final products and demos of techniques. I tend to find videos harder to follow and am better with written details.

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  8. Wow! The boxes look so awesome. It depends on my time whether I create my own design or kit. I love classes that teach techniques, but I also enjoy specific project classes. It depends on the project, some just aren't my style so I don't have interest in the project. Thanks for putting the boxes together. I hope your explore comes today! Curious how the sketch and cut works. Is there a trace feature?

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  9. I prefer to create my projects from scratch, but if I do use a kit I almost always change it up a little to make it my own. I also would rather attend a technique class instead of one that would create a finished project.

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  10. It has been fun each day answering your questions and seeing what goody you would be putting in the boxes. I am not a kit person. I don't want my project to look like it came ot of a kit, I like to have choices. I do enjoy classes where I walk out with a finished project. I usually end up taking it apart in the end, but I liked the process of having a finished project.

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  11. I have created from scratch and created from kits and enjoy both. Lately I seem to create more from kits though! I would rather take a class on a specific finished project knowing that I can adapt things I learn into other projects. Those boxes sure are getting full! Thank you for doing this, it's awfully kind of you!

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  12. I like to be creative and make all the elements myself or most of them. I would love to take classes to learn hands-on but, there are none to be found around me and I have no one to go with. So, I go up in my craft room and scribble out an idea and then get on my computer and go for it. Sometimes it works and sometime a few things need a little more work. I love the creative process. It's so much fun to see the finished pieces. The biggest thing I've learned is to walk away for a bit and come back. Your project will be better for it. WOW those boxes are getting so full. So exciting! Thank you!
    Kathy U:)

    kathy21361(at)yahoo(dot)come

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  13. I generally create my projects from scratch, unless it's something that I feel it is more complicated than I have the patience for. I love taking technique classes - if I had only focused on what the end result looked like I would have missed a lot of fun and excellent learning opportunities. Thank you so much for the fun anniversary month - I read all your posts, but it's been fun playing along!

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  14. Diane, first let me thank you for an entertaining Blogaversary event. You are very generous.
    I prefer to create my cards from "scratch". When I use a kit, even though the project turns out beautifully, I don't feel like I made the card. As for classes, I enjoy both types.

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  15. Wow quite the loot bags! I usually start with an idea for my scrapbook pages and work all kinds of ideas onto it. However I have worked with kits and also love the end results. Some of my favorite kits are from CTMH. Thank you Diane for this fun time. I learned a lot from others responses. And.... HAPPY ANNIVERSARY. love your informative blog. And I look forward to seeing pics of your lovely garden, especially after this long and cold winter. I also decided to wait for your comments on the Explore. Thanks for the fun and good luck to all these fine gals.

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  16. I like where they teach a techniques that can be used several ways. I prefer to see an idea and then see and use what I have in my supplies. Congrats on your 6th anniversary and for the opportunity to win one or those super boxes.

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  17. Kits r fun but I much rather come up with my own ideas and color schemes.I love to take classes to learn new techniques and do use them over and over on my pages or cards. Thanks for the opportunity of participating in this blog. It has been fun.

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  18. I prefer to do my own thing, and I love to learn new techniques that I can apply to my own projects!

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  19. I like to piece things together to see what I come up with. I have heard you mention that you don't like to throw large scraps away. I don't either, and I add other stuff I've made extra of. Sometimes though, I need a bunch of one thing, like a sympathy card or something, and I will usually look for a pattern and copy it.

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  20. Hi Diane. Wow! The boxes have some serious goodies!!! You are so sweet to do this.
    I guess I like to get ideas and inspiration from products, kits and websites etc and then do my own thing. I always say that my crafting is "my therapy" and it really is. I enjoy the process as much as the final product.
    I enjoy a class that teaches techniques and then I like to try them in my own way. I did the TH Chem 101 and 102 classes and found them to be really inspiring. I get a lot of inspiration from you!!
    Who ever wins the boxes will really enjoy! Happy Anniversary!
    Marilyn
    mrtooke@yahoo.com

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  21. I love to start from scratch! But it depends on how much time I have . thanks--great prizes- millierose6512aol.com

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  22. In all of the many years I have been crafting, from Cross Stitch to Plastic Canvas and even with my Cricut...I have ALWAYS altered something on the design, to make it my own....I even dream some designs...lol scary sometimes...I am anxiously waiting for my Explore to be delivered today!!! So many ideas are floating around in my head...The design Space is amazing !!! Thanks so very much for this chance to win these amazing products!!~~~~Sincerely!

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  23. I prefer to work from scratch using something as an inspiration. Sometimes its the paper, an image or just an idea that came to my head that starts my project. It may also be an online challenge that gets me going.

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  24. I prefer to create my projects from scratch, but usually have something I use as an inspiration. As for a class, I much prefer learning a project from beginning to end and having a final product because then I can use all the techniques from that project and apply them to other scratch projects.

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  25. What a wonderful box of goodies! I'm so happy to join your blog anniversary celebration.
    I like to work from a picture. I don't usually use a kit, but sometimes written instructions are helpful.
    I like technique classes as long as I have something finished at the end, perhaps a greeting card or scrapbook page. I really can't fit another canvas 'work of art' in my space (but I DID take a technique class in which the instructor gessoed over an unwanted project -- THAT'S an idea!).
    Thanks for all the blog posts - I enjoy every one.
    --ScrapperQ llwyman[dot]310[at]gmail[dot]com

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  26. Since I don't consider myself really creative, I like to have some direction. Whenever I an at a crop, I try to take the classes offered for scrapbook layouts that I can use later. However, I must admit that after looking at my early scrapbooks and some current ones, that I have come a long way.

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  27. Wow that is quite a line up of goodies in that box. I love to scrap or make a card from scratch with materials I have on hand. It make take me a long time to make a card bit I love it,

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  28. That is a tough question. Sometimes I like to "not think" and just assemble cards from a kit. Othertimes I have an idea in my head that I have to get out on paper. Can I pick both?
    marilyn2222 @ hotmail dot com
    follower

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  29. Depends on my mood for the day and how tired I am. If I've had a rough week, I like to just be shown what to do and do it. If I've had a good week, I really like the freedom of doing my own thing using a new technique I learned at a class.
    Wow! Those are some wonderful prizes in your boxes!!! Thanks so much for the chance to win!

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  30. First let me say that I am glad you see you will be using the Cricut designs again :-)

    I like to do both. I often start with a pattern, and then move on to the next project with my creative juices flowing and do it using bits and pieces. I got lots of ideas from the bits and pieces in your boxes. Thanks for providing such a fun giveaway and happy Blogaversary! :-)

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  31. I like a variety of doings things and I like to learn new things, so I can't say I have a favorite. The boxes are great! Wow, you are so generous. I particularly like the friend stamp. It is so pretty.

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  32. I prefer to work from scratch and let the pictures tell me how to scrap them. I also loving new techniques. I do find that I will try most of them but only keep a few that I do quite often.
    Great goodies that you are sending to some lucky people and i will send out my congrats to those winners - least I forget.
    I have so enjoyed the past days answering your great questions. So much nicer than having to submit something or go to lots of different places to enter. Hope you do something like this again even w/o the give away. Loved reading what others had to say.
    I am also looking forward to seeing how you like the explore. I have checked out Designspace and found that I will stay with my cameo and software as it will do it all right now and not have to wait. I do miss my carts though.
    Thanks again!

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  33. I prefer to work from scratch. Often I use a picture for inspiration. I like learning new techniques such as the ones I've learned from The Scrapbook Coach series. Love those boxes!

    Cassie

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  34. I prefer to start from scratch. I envision an idea, get to work, and hopefully, looks like I envisioned it. I also love to to learn new techniques that I can use in all my crafting. I attend classes in person and online, as well as search the blogs.

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  35. I've never had a kit to work from so I don't know how I would like that . I do like having lots of instructions on how a process is done so I don't have to guess at what I did wrong when it doesn't turn out right ! :)
    Thanks for all the great things you have put into this box. I have enjoyed seeing it all and reading peoples different tips !
    Anna N.
    ann2236(at)juno(dot)com

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  36. Nice goodie box. I would like to win one but I haven't been too lucky. oh well ,lol. I enjoy all the ways of crafting. My dream retirement was to take classes different media. The stamping store near me offers great classes I find it allows me to be more creative while learning to use other product. I haven't taken a class in quite a while. In fact I haven't been out of the house in quite a while. Like I said I like rto do thigs from scratch and preplanned classes. Slowly attacking craft room to make it more user friendly for myself. I have quite a bit of stuff I want to sell. This would make room for the Explore, if I decide to buy it. As each day feeling better gets me one step closer to a new way of life. DawnRI.

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  37. First I get inspired by looking at projects on pinterest. Many times mine sorta looks like the design I'm using and sometimes not even close. Pinterest is a great way for me to get my creative juices flowing. I went into the Design Studio yesterday. More videos on how to use it would be great.
    I've taken classes on techniques and also on projects. I enjoyed both. I do like to have videos on the computer where I can go back several times to review how to do something. I am always learning something new even with my cricut which I have been using for 4 years.
    My latest venture is layer stamping flowers. I love the look but just don't seem to have it down. Wondering if I need to buy one of those stamp guides? Do you use one and if so which one do you like? I'm also learning stamps and inks are not all created equal. 2 of my favorite stamps are CTMH and Stampin up. My problem is I get in the middle of a project and need a certain stamp or ink and off to Michael's I go as they are 10 minutes from me. Learned the hard way that the inks I buy there dry out very quickly and the stamps don't stamp like CTMH stamps. I am now looking for a doily die. Trying to decide if I should buy a cartridge with some on it or get a die set. Any suggestions
    So excited for those boxes to be received. 3 very special people will have Christmas in March. How fun...... and I do hope one is me. Not being selfish or anything. ha ha
    Have a fabulous day.
    Thank you so very much
    Linda in Stanwood

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  38. I have the utmost respect for people, like yourself, who can look at a piece of paper or other object and be inspired to create something new. I, however, prefer to follow the directions with my projects. I often find that I take a kit and add something to make it my own; bling, dimensionals, buttons, etc. I've taken many classes and find enjoy both types you describe. I'm always open to learning new techniques, provided they can be "dummy'd down" to my level. I'm not overly creative, but I enjoy the challenge of expanding upon an already-created project.

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  39. I don't have too many ideas on my own so I watch a lot of videos to get my ideas and learn new techniques. When I see a card I like I try to turn it into my own as best as I can. You have really stuffed those boxes with some great items. Once again, happy blog anniversary Diane and here's to many more. Keep your ideas coming. I've learned so much from you over the years.

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  40. The boxes are fabulous and the lucky winners will be so blessed to have one. I definitely prefer to create from scratch or at least take an idea or inspiration from someone and tweak it to make it mine, I purchased the Anna Griffin Christmas card kit last year, and as much as I admire her work and talents, I felt as though I was less than honest in sending them out as if I had made them myself. Does that make sense? I added glitter, gems and personal touches but it still didn't feel right taking the credit. Have fun with your Explore, I am eagerly waiting for your first impression comments. Stay warm!

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  41. I really like coordinated kits and sometimes even pre designed layouts. For classes, I've taken both types.

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  42. I never work from a kit or matching papers and matching embellishments. It would sure make things easier to do it that way. I prefer to spend my money on tools, like Spellbinders. I prefer to learn techniques in classes rather than do a project. Like when I go to a vendor's fair, I will watch the demo, buy the products, take it home, and FORGET HOW TO USE IT OR WHAT IT IS SUPPOSED TO BE USED WITH. I need a photographic recall memory. Ha!

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  43. Diane, thank you so much for a wonderful blog anniversary. Thank you for being so generous in your giveaway. There are many items in the boxes that I have never seen before. I also was looking on your blog and I was checking out the cricut projects that you did, they are wonderful. I like to create from scratch and I also like kits. I like to learn techniques, then take it from there. Are you going to be doing more projects with cricut cartidges?

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  44. I usually design from scratch, because the cards I make are designed for a specific person. That said, however, I've been know to scrap-lift pretty directly, if a card I like fits the person I'm thinking of ; - ) I do duplicate myself, esp. if I'm in a hurry on things like anniversary cards, because they tend to be a bit more generic ;- ) I always underestimate the amount of time it actually takes me to put it all together >.< Have a great week, Diane!

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  45. This has been fun the last couple of weeks, I usually look through magazines or the web to much time looking for ideas and not enough time creating. I think I must have jumped the creativity line because I have none so I do a lot of looking and then tweeking ideas that I do fine. Oh only to have a creative mind would be wonderful. Oh well :).

    Roxanna
    roxxscott at g mail dot com

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  46. your anniversary boxes are great! I prefer starting from scratch, often inspired by leftover paper from another project; really enjoy classes of all kinds, learning new techniques and ways to get projects finished. should be getting my Explore anytime now today..or I'll have to wait until Monday :(!!

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  47. I get inspired by a lot of different things but not by items in a kit. I've only purchased one and that was because I liked the stamp set included and it was only a little more to get all the papers with it. I like classes that teach techniques to use on my cards with the products I already own. I've taken a number of online card classes and really enjoy them.

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  48. I like to do my own creative thing but sometimes it is great to just "veg out" and let someone else do all the creativity for you. Both ways have value and when I am not in the mood to be creative a pre-planned project is just perfect.

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  49. I love projects but do not like the tiny pieces. Love taking classes that show me something different, Also depends on how I am feeling at the moment.

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  50. I like to start from scratch! If I could take a course I would like it to show a technique I could use for a lot of projects.

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  51. Being a control freak I like to do "from scratch". Thank you Diane for the chance to win one of these great goodies boxes you have put together. It was fun to read what other thought about from your daily questions…makes one think outside the box.

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  52. It all depends on what sort of a deadline I have. If I need it done in a hurry I kike the kits. If I have plenty of time I like to pick my own supplies. I like to learn new techniques from a class But I also like to scrap set projects as part of a scrap group.

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  53. I like to look at ideas then modify them for me. I'm not very big on kits although I have received several as freebie gifts from crops I've gone to, then just used the items in the kit for something different. I prefer to attend classes that teaches me techniques to use on any project and could be modified if I wanted to. I know there are times when I needed to get a project completed (like a last minute card of some sort) that I ended up using a from a kit and put together as instructed because I was too tired, lazy or ran out of time. But I love to look at something then put my own spin on it. I have actually done that with some of your card ideas that you posted in the past. I love your work and have a book full of your posts.

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  54. What a great box of all the nice crafting items. Thank you for a chance to win. I prefer to start from scratch but do get a lot of ideas from all different blogs I follow. I usually change some of the ideas but am not a very creative person. I also have gotten some ideas from your site.

    Kathy

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  55. I prefer step by step. I have very little imagination. I would rather follow a sketch or directions that someone else has already perfected. Thanks for all the giveaways and for the questions. You really made me think.

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  56. Oh my...those boxes look "delicious!"
    I do use sketches or instructions as "jumping off points" and for inspiration. I will usually tweak the original idea to totally make it my own. I really like learning techniques that I can adapt in many different areas, even home decor! :)

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  57. I do some from scratch, but I can scrapbook much quicker when I work from a kit.

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  58. I like using both kits and from scratch. Since I live in the country I take classes on line. I take their instructions and change them to suit my supplies. I love reading your blog especially about new items that you review. It would really make my day to win one of those awesome boxes.

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  59. I love the step-by-step approach. I love to watch videos on how to do things. I also love to scraplift and then add my own touch to the project that I have scraplifted.

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  60. Those boxes have some awesome stuff in them ! Thanks for the chance to win your Blog Anniv give away. I like to work from scratch and kits for different reasons. Kits are quick and easy so when I am pressed for time , kits, pinterest and books give me quick and easy pages to get my albums completed. When I have more time I am daring and spend hours creating new things from techniques I have learn or ideas that are stuck and my head and need to come alive. Classes are a great way to learn new techniques or pick up tips I may not know and of course reading your awesome blogs day to day. Thanks for inspiring me to try new things.

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  61. Our wireless internet has been on the fritz all day and I'm just now getting to comment on today's post. Wow, those boxes are full! You've been so nice to share so many things with three lucky winners. Keeping my fingers crossed! I think it depends on what frame of mind I'm in on whether to work from scratch or a kit. Both options are nice. I'm taking a card making class and love it. I've been going to it for three or four years now and am always amazed at how creative our instructor is. I enjoy having it all in a packet and making each card--we make four in every class. It also helps spark my imagination in making my own paper projects here at home. Thanks so much for such a fun blog anniversary. Love your blog and the inspiration you give to all of us.

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  62. I make most of my cards using sketches, that seems to work best for me.

    Hugs, Jenn

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  63. I LOVE doing things from scratch. Love to create.
    Time really flies when I'm creating; and I have discover that I have a need to create on a regular basis (I know now because I injured my elbow and have been unable to craft). I like learning techniques so I can then apply them to my liking.
    Thanks again for all the goodies that you are willing to share with us.

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  64. I prefer just doing my own thing. for me, half the fun is going thru my supplies and experimenting. I like to learn techniques that I can use on any project.

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  65. I like making projects from scratch, but sometimes it's relaxing to take directions from a kit or even a magazine. As for the classes, I would rather learn a technique and how to use that technique in different ways or for different effects. I think I'd be better able to hang on to what I've learned and retain it in my own arsenal of ideas for my cardmaking.

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  66. I love making things from scratch. I think it is so fun to mix and match different papers, supplies, and techniques to create something very special!

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  67. Love starting from scratch, but sometimes I use kits!!

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  68. I love to create from scratch but like to look at kits to get ideas.

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  69. As I scrolled through the pictures of the box contents, I realize that I have missed seeing some of them. These are certainly treasure boxes! I can see using a number of the items as a starting point for the way I craft. I create from scratch, usually with a photo or an occasion as the inspiration. From that starting point, I choose my color scheme and then the "hunt" is on for coordinating papers and embellishments. I rarely stay with one manufacturer or paper package. For me, "the hunt" is a huge part of the pleasure I get from crafting. The classes I have taken usually are project specific, but ones that do teach techniques that I use on future projects. Often the colors used in the classes are not my taste, but it is the technique that I want to learn. Having the finished example helps me with the future recreations. It really makes my day when some of my crafty friends recognize a gift or card I give them as using a technique we learned together in a class.
    Shellee srobisonatbrown-straussdotcom

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  70. Sometimes I try to emulate a photo of a craft or card I see. But my best designs come from thinking of the recipient, what he or she would like and creating something for them on the fly. I really think I live up to the last touch I put on everything I make - a stamp that says "handmade with love by Sunny".

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  71. Sometimes I use a kit, which makes it really easy because everything is there for you all coordinated. Although, most of the time I make a card from scratch. I am grateful for the many bloggers that post their ideas and instructions online, as I feel I don't have much of an imagination. I have learned so much from you Diane. You even designed a card for me using DS, I can't thank you enough.

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  72. It is not very often that I use a kit, it depends on the degree of the project. I am an "attention to detail" person. This is a good and bad trait. I always like the end result, but sometimes I have to think, think and then think some more before it comes together. I need to get over that!

    Thank you for this great give-a-way and congrats on your anniversary !

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