Paper Studio

Valentine Sale: 30% OFF!

2012-02-02T05:29:00.002-06:00

What a sweet deal! Take 30% off of all items in the "Love Struck" Collection. Choose from papers, stickers, clear stamp sets, brads, card kits, cardstock pads, embossed die cuts, jumbo brads, and...

Even the cute decorative "bottle caps" are 30% off...

Stop in soon to get what you need to complete your Valentine's Day creations, or stock up on the papers and embellishments in this collection (great reds, pinks, teals, polka-dots and stripes) that work well for any layout, card, or altered art projects.

Storage, Storage, Storage

2012-02-01T05:23:00.001-06:00

Yes, we have them: The 72 piece Copic Wallet (empty and ready for all your Copic Markers) and the Tim Holtz Stamp Binder. Check them out in the pics below, then stop in and pick one or two up!

72 Piece Wallet

Tim Holtz Unmounted Stamp Binder

Color Tip for Scrapbooking

2012-01-31T09:06:00.004-06:00

We've been focusing on new colors for 2012 lately. Sometimes the basics are helpful to even the most experienced paper artisit. This video shares some very simple tips that can really make a big difference in your scapbook layouts -- for the novice and experienced scrapper alike!

February's Six Card Class

2012-01-30T11:26:00.000-06:00

I am very happy with the projects for February's Six Card Class! I love the cheerful, bright colors in this collection and the different combos you can use them in. This class is good for all card making levels and for those who would like to learn how to use the Spellbinders in their die cutting machine. Call soon for a spot in the class.

See you soon,
~~Deanna~~

Here are the details:

What:

Deanna's February Card Class features two cards of three designs The class fee includes instruction, materials for the cards, envelopes and a clear storage box. Keep the cards for your own use or give them as a gift. February's Cards feature the "Cotton Tail" paper line from We R Memory Keepers and Spellbinders Nestabilities Label 18.
When:
Saturday, February 11 at 11:00am, ~or~
Sunday, February 19 at 1:00pm
Length:
Allow about 1-1/2 to 2 hours to complete all 6 cards
Cost:
$25.00
Bring:
Your favorite Double-sided tape, 1/8" SuperTape or Zips, Zots or Glue Dots, Foam Adhesive
Instructor:
Deanna

Sunday Card Sketch

2012-01-29T09:15:00.000-06:00

Visit the MFT Blog for cool ideas for cards using this sketch.

The Last Pencil Lines Sketch

2012-01-28T12:12:00.000-06:00

We are said to report that Anna Bowkis is saying good bye to her Pencil Lines Blog and will be devoting her time to photography. She provided so much inspiration to our scrapbooking! You can still visit her blog for PDF's of past sketches. We hope you find inspiration with this sketch. Have a layout to share? We would love to see what you do with this sketch...bring it to Paper Studio or post a photo of it on our Facebook Wall.

Salmon Croquettes

2012-01-27T10:08:00.000-06:00

Trying to eat more fish? Salmon is a very healthy choice. My family and I really like it. I buy more Salmon than I need and poach or grill it. I use the leftovers in patties (or croquettes if you like). This recipe is very tasty and not too difficult. This recipe is from Sandra Lee for the Food Network. I hop you like it ~Micaela.

Ingredients

Remoulade:

• 1 1/4 cups mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon capers
• 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning (recommended: Old Bay)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed garlic
• 2 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1 scallion, finely chopped

Croquettes:

• 2 pre-cooked salmon fillets, about 1/2-pound
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 3/4 cup fish fry coating mix, plus more for coating (recommended: Kraft)
• 6 dashes hot sauce
• 1/4 cup remoulade sauce
• Canola oil, for frying

For Remoulade:
Combine all the remoulade ingredients, except scallions in a bowl and stir together with a fork to help break up the capers. Mix in scallion and set aside.

For Croquettes:
Using a fork flake the salmon meat away from the skin. Discard skin.

In a medium bowl, beat egg. To the egg, add the fish fry mix, salmon, hot sauce, and 1/4 cup of remoulade sauce. Mix well to combine. Form into 8 patties. Pour the remaining fish fry mix into a pie dish or onto a dish. Coat the patties in the remaining fish fry mix and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat a thin layer of oil over medium to medium-high heat. Without crowding pan, cook patties until golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.

Serve Croquettes hot with remaining remoulade sauce.

Thursday Challenge: Share Your Work

2012-01-26T06:22:00.000-06:00

What are you making? Cards, layouts, altered art projects? Have a new way to use a favorite tool, ribbon, or embellishment? We would love to see it. Visit Paper Studio, Inc. on Facebook and share your latest and greatest project. Even better, upload a photo of your beautiful creation. Not a member of Facebook? Visit Facebook and sign up, then "like" Paper Studio, Inc. and you can post your photos and comments on our Facebook Page. Our Facebook friends find out about sales, new product and see photos of our latest Make and Takes on our Facebook Page. We also offer special give-a-ways and contests on Facebook. You can share and comment and see what your Paper Studio, Inc. Friends are working on too!

Product Spotlight: Fiskars 3-in-1 Squeeze Punch

2012-01-25T11:16:00.000-06:00

We love the Fiskars 3-in-1 Corner Squeeze Punch. Shown here is the "Starlets" Punch. You get three (yes three!) different corner punches from just one easy to use tool. How cool is that? Getting three punches in one saves space and offers more for your money. We share Fiskars Video (below) showing the punch in use. Try it out yourself at Paper Studio this week. The "Starlets" 3-in-1 Corner Squeeze Punch is featured in our new Make and Take Card. Happy Crafting Everyone!

Copic Markers: Medium Blond Hair Tutorial

2012-01-24T09:07:00.000-06:00

You can achieve realistic blond hair on your stamped images using Copic Markers. This video shows the artist using just three Copic Colors to get a nice look with very little effort. We hope you find this tutorial helpful. Visit us for the colors shown in the tutorial. Happy stamping and creating from all your friends at Paper Studio in Minocqua, Wisconsin.

Class Highlight: Cupcake Basket

2012-01-23T13:16:00.000-06:00

Detail of the front of the Cupcake Basket

Join Micaela and make this adorable Cupcake Basket that is her original design. The finished basket measures 8-1/2" Tall by 6-1/2" Wide and is 4" Deep. The interior of the basket (perfect for holding cookies, candies or a special gift) measures 4"x4"x4". The class fee of $20.00 includes instruction, embellishments and papers. Please bring Super Tape and Regular Double Sided Tape to class. This fun class is offered on three different dates in February. Choose from Tuesday, February 7 at 1:00pm; or Wednesday, February 22 at 1:00pm; or Tuesday, February 28 at 1:00pm. Call us at 715-356-6464 to register.

Overall view of the Cupcake Basket

Detail of the side of the Cupcake Basket

Sunday Card Sketch

2012-01-22T11:35:00.000-06:00

Let's start the week with this wonderful sketch from the talented team at Card Positioning Systems. This sketch may appear to be very simple...but the possibilities are anything but plain! We would love to see what you do with this sketch. Please share your creations with us on our Face Book page. Have a creative week everyone!

Saturday Scrapbook Sketch and Contest

2012-01-21T11:14:00.000-06:00

Becky Fleck created this sketch for the Page Maps Blog. You have so many design possibilities with this sketch! Becky's sketches are so much fun to create with. Visit the Page Maps Blog for information on her contest based on this sketch. Enter your completed layout by February 5. But, visit her blog for all the details and information on the prize. Good luck everyone!

Cherry Chocolate Cake

2012-01-20T06:44:00.000-06:00

Cherry Chocolate Cake Pictured In The Top Right Corner

We served Cherry Chocolate Cake at our Copic Workshop this week. This is one of the easiest desserts I make. We decided to feature it as this week's recipe because so many of you asked for the recipe. (This is so easy, I am not sure you could really call this a recipe!) I hope your family enjoys it ~Micaela

Easy Cherry Chocolate Cake

Prepare one Box-Mix Chocolate Cake Mix (as package directs) in a 9"x13" pan.
Right after you remove the cake from the oven, punch a number of wholes in the cake (leave in the pan) with handle of a wooden spoon.
Spread about one full and one half of canned cherry pie filling over the cake while still warm.
Let the cake cool.
Spread a large tub of Cool Whip Topping over the cherry pie filling.
Enjoy!

Challenge: Enter your Card in MFT Weekly Challenge

2012-01-19T11:59:00.001-06:00

My Favorite Things Stamps has a weekly stamp club each Wednesday that challenges you to create a card based on their sketch. Above we share their sketch from January 18, 2012. Below is a card made by Angela Rivera. Angela is MFT's guest designer this month. Click here to see more cards based on this sketch and for information on how to participate in their weekly challenge.

Copic Workshop Fun

2012-01-18T16:58:00.001-06:00

Thank you to everyone who made today's Copic Workshop a success. It was fun visiting and creating with all of you. Just wanted to share a few photos taken at the start of the workshop...

Certified Instructor and Paper Studio Designer Deanna Dark

demonstrates the Copic Air-Brush System.

A view of the demo workspace.

Yummy treats were served.

Even the over spray on Deanna's blotter was beautiful!

Zero Calorie Paper Lollipops!

2012-01-17T10:12:00.000-06:00

"Sweet" Paper Lollipops, designed and created by Micaela Inman

Want to make a sweet treat for Valentine's Day that is free of calories? Look no further than these Paper Lollipops! I used the basic paper rosette and turned it into a lollipop. (Scroll down for a video tutorial on how to make the basic rosette.) Here are a few tips to make the gluing easier and suggestions on turning the basic rosette in to a lollipop:

Punch out two circles for the front and back of the rosette.
Place a Jumbo Zots Glue Dot (by Therm O Web) on the bottom circle and push the center of the rosette into the Jumbo Zot...not a little square as show in the video...Jumbo Zot is much easier.
Adhere a cake pop or lollipop stick to the back circle and cover with another circle.
Decorate the front with another circle and layer any punched shapes or letters, as you wish.
Tie a variety of bows and ribbon lengths to the sticks for a little extra wow.

Sunday Card Sketch from MFT

2012-01-15T03:37:00.000-06:00

The talented group at My Favorite Things Stamps came up with the great sketch. We would love to see the card you make based on this sketch. Share it with us in person or on Facebook.

Saturday 12x12 Scrapbook Sketch

2012-01-14T14:58:00.000-06:00

Many thanks to the talented group at PageMaps for this sweet 12x12 scrapbook sketch. What will you do with it?

King Cake: Good Luck on Friday the Thirteenth!

2012-01-13T10:40:00.000-06:00

Let's forget about today being unlucky and think of luck and good fortune in the new year. Today's recipe is King Cake. (I've featured Sandra Lee's version...so it is easy!) This cake is usually a Mardi Gras Tradition and is decorated with Mardi Gras colored sugars. This cake is also a feature of Three King's Day and Epiphany celebrations in some countries and religions. Traditionally a trinket (usually a small plastic baby) is baked inside the cake. The lucky one who has the baby in her piece of cake receives great fortune and luck in the new year AND also has to host the next year's King Cake Party! I hope you have little fun with this recipe and have good luck this Friday the Thirteenth ~Micaela

Ingredients

1 (13.9-ounce) can bread sticks (recommended: Pillsbury)
1 (1-inch) heat proof plastic baby
1 (12-ounce) can whipped cream cheese frosting (recommended: Pillsbury)
1/4 cup heavy cream
Green sanding sugar
Purple sanding sugar
Gold (yellow) sanding sugar

Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.

Open bread sticks. Press together the ends of 2 of the sticks to make 1 long stick. Repeat with the remaining bread sticks giving you 6 long sticks. Taking 3 at a time, loosely braid together. Repeat with remaining dough. Pinch the braids together end to end.

Leaving a 3-inch hole in the middle, loosely coil braids around one another on prepared baking sheet. Press ends together.

Bake in preheated oven for 16 to 20 minutes or until completely golden brown. Remove from oven and cool completely. Carefully insert the baby into the cake in between the seams of the braid.

In a medium pot combine the cream cheese frosting and heavy cream. Heat over low heat until warm and smooth, stirring constantly. Pour glaze over cake and sprinkle with sanding sugars.

Thusday Challenge: Color Challenge

2012-01-12T08:40:00.002-06:00

Need some inspiration? Try finding it in catalogs, photos, online store websites.... You get the idea.

Here is a picture from Pottery Barn's website.

Daisy Pillow Cover

What will you be inspired to create?

Make sure to share it with us on our Facebook page!

Product Spotlight: We R Memory Keepers Cotton Tail

2012-01-11T10:40:00.000-06:00

We have a new collection in the Studio from We R Memory Keepers.

Here are a few photos from the manufacturer to whet your appetite for this fun Spring/Baby/Easter collection!

Very nice pastels in this collection.

You may just want the entire collection! Hurry in before these are gone!

In the meadow

Color me Plaid

In the Meadow

These crochet doilies are a keeper!

You"ll love the stamp sets in this collection. Isn't that a cute bee?

For a quick double layout, get the Page Kit! It's a breeze to put together.

This collection is practically flying out of the store, so come in soon for this great paper collection!

Tuesday Tutorial: Copic Elements

2012-01-10T17:58:00.000-06:00

Here's a tutorial for altering elements and embellishments with your markers.

Enjoy!

Friday Recipe: Try these for breakfast this weekend!

2012-01-06T15:41:00.000-06:00

I can hear your tummies rumbling!

Pioneer Woman has another(aren't all of them?) awesome recipe!

Hope you can enjoy this over the weekend with your family!

Lemon Blueberry Pancakes

Prep Time: 10 Minutes
Cook Time: 10 Minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4

Ingredients
1-1/2 cup Cake Flour
1 Tablespoon (additional) Cake Flour
1/4 teaspoon Salt
1 Tablespoon (heaping) Baking Powder
3 Tablespoons Sugar
1-1/2 cup Evaporated Milk (more If Needed)
1 whole Lemon (more If Needed)
1 whole Large Egg
1-1/2 teaspoon Vanilla
2 Tablespoons Butter, Melted
Zest From 1 Lemon
1 cup Heaping Blueberries
Extra Butter
Maple Or Pancake Syrup

Preparation Instructions
Heat heavy skillet or grill over medium low heat.

In a medium bowl, mix flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, mix evaporated milk, juice of 1 lemon (more if lemon isn't very juicy), and lemon zest.

Allow to sit for five minutes, then add egg, vanilla, and melted butter. Mix to combine.

Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients. Stir gently to combine. Splash in more evaporated milk if mixture is overly thick.

Stir in blueberries.

Again, check to make sure mixture isn't overly thick.

Melt butter in heated skillet.

Drop batter by 1/4 cup measures and fry pancakes on both sides until golden.

Serve with softened butter and warm syrup.

Have a great weekend and remember to stop and take some time to do what you love!

See you soon!

Thursday Challenge: Make a Holiday Mini Album

2012-01-05T08:00:00.002-06:00

Now that you are back into a normal routine, why not make a quick Mini-Album of those special moments you shared with your family and friends over the holidays?
Here's what you need to do:

Decide on 4-6 of your favorite photos
Pick out your Cardstock and Designer Paper
Cut your Chipboard into the shape you want(come in and purchase your Chipboard and use our Accu-Cut Die Cutting Machine and Dies will work for your Cardstock and Designer Paper as well)
Put it together using a glue stick and double-sided tape
Add photos and journaling
Punch your holes and add Binder Rings
Decorate front with Holiday "Bling" and Ribbon

Here is one option of the Album Die Cuts we have available:

Just a reminder that we currently have our Christmas Products at 50% off. Come in soon for the best selection!

Product Spotlight: Fiskars Everywhere Punch

2012-01-04T08:00:00.002-06:00

The Fiskars Everywhere Punch is a great punch for so many projects.

Here is what Fiskars has to say about this product:

The Everywhere Punch™ Window System is the only punch system on the market that makes it easy for creative crafters to punch perfect windows anywhere on the page — even the middle! With this portable, battery-free punch system, creating window cards, adding special effects to scrapbook pages and personalizing paper craft projects has never been easier. The secret to its versatile punching power is in the unique three-piece punch system:

*Easy-to-use, clear placement tool positions the punch on the paper
*Magnetic base slides under the paper and locks the placement tool down
*Top locks onto the placement tool and punches the paper with a push of the button

The Everywhere Punch™ Window System starter set includes a square punch. Add the circle, scalloped square and scalloped circle punch designs to take creative crafting to the next level. Best of all, switching out the punch design is completely intuitive and takes just moments. Limited-lifetime warranty.

We currently have the entire line in stock at Paper Studio.

Below are the newest cartridges also in stock.

Burst

Frame

Tuesday Tutorial: Copic Air Brushing

2012-01-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

Today's tutorial come from a demo done at Winter CHA 2010 using the Air Brush System (ABS).

We will have the ABS-1 system in the Studio to demonstrate it for our Copic Party on January 18th from 1:00pm-4:00pm. Make sure to call and reserve your spot for this special free event!

Class Highlight: Six Card Class

2012-01-02T08:00:00.000-06:00

Waterfall, Joy Fold, Tri-Shutter Fold Cards

January's Six Card Class features a couple favorites from our One Card Wonder Series(the Waterfall Card and the Tri-Shutter Fold Card) and a new special folded card(Joy Fold). These cards have a "wow" factor, not just because they are different from the standard cards, but also because of the colors. These cards will brighten anyone's day during the long winter!

Here are the details:

Deanna's January Card Class features two cards of three designs The class fee includes instruction, materials for the cards, envelopes and a clear storage box. Keep the cards for your own use or give them as a gift. January's cards include a tri-fold shutter card, a waterfall card, and a new special folded design.

When:
Tuesday, January 10 at 1:00pm --or--
Thursday, January 26 at 11:00am
Length:
Allow about 2-1/2 to 3 hours to complete all 6 cards
Cost: $25.00
Bring:
Double sided tape.

Call us at 715-356-6464 to pre-register for class.

Reminder on Special Hours

2011-12-31T08:00:00.002-06:00

We want to take this opportunity to thank our customers for a great 2011! We appreciate your business and your friendship.

Without your support we would not be able to bring you new and exciting products.

Have a safe weekend and we will see next year!

December 31st 10:00am-3:00pm

January 1st Closed

January 2nd Regular Business Hours Resume

Friday Recipe: The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Tortilla Soup

2011-12-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

Today's recipe is from The Pioneer Woman's blog. It looks delicious! For pictures for every step, go here.

Ingredients

■2 whole Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
■1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
■1-1/2 teaspoon Cumin
■1 teaspoon Chili Powder
■1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
■1/2 teaspoon Salt
■1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
■1 cup Diced Onion
■1/4 cup Diced Green Bell Pepper
■1/4 cup Red Bell Pepper
■3 cloves Garlic, Minced
■1 can (10 Oz. Can) Rotel Tomatoes And Green Chilies
■32 ounces, fluid Low Sodium Chicken Stock
■3 Tablespoons Tomato Paste
■4 cups Hot Water
■2 cans (15 Oz. Can) Black Beans, Drained
■3 Tablespoons Cornmeal Or Masa
■5 whole Corn Tortillas, Cut Into Uniform Strips Around 2 To 3 Inches

■FOR THE GARNISHES:
■Sour Cream
■Diced Avocado
■Diced Red Onion
■Salsa Or Pico De Gallo
■Grated Monterey Jack Cheese
■Cilantro

Preparation Instructions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Mix cumin, chili pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil on chicken breasts, then sprinkle a small amount of spice mix on both sides. Set aside the rest of the spice mix.

Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until chicken is done. Use two forks to shred chicken. Set aside.

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pot over medium high heat. Add onions, red pepper, green pepper, and minced garlic. Stir and begin cooking, then add the rest of the spice mix. Stir to combine, then add shredded chicken and stir.

Pour in Rotel, chicken stock, tomato paste, water, and black beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer for 45 minutes, uncovered.

Mix cornmeal with a small amount of water. Pour into the soup, then simmer for an additional 30 minutes. Check seasonings, adding more if needed---add more chili powder if it needs more spice, and be sure not to undersalt. Turn off heat and allow to sit for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Five minutes before serving, gently stir in tortilla strips.

Ladle into bowls, then top with sour cream, diced red onion, diced avocado, pico de gallo, and grated cheese, if you have it! (The garnishes really make the soup delicious.)

Thursday Challenge: Make those Valentine Cards

2011-12-29T08:00:00.003-06:00

We know the new year hasn't started yet, but now that Christmas is over, it's time to make those Valentine's!

Short on time? Why not come in for one of the "Love Struck" card kits?

We also have that Valentine Card Class in January! Click here for details.

Product Spotlight: Love Struck and a lot of Pictures!

2011-12-28T08:00:00.001-06:00

We have three new lines of We R Memory Keepers Collections.

Take a look at "Love Struck".

Complete Collection

Here's a close-up of some of the cards on top of the display:

Cards made by Designer Joanna Carlson

Close-up of Joanna's card

Cards made by Designers Misty Valadez and Joanna Carlson

Close-up of Misty's card

Inside of Misty's card

Every now and then our customer's share their work with us. We love what Denise Taddey did with this collection.

Cards made by customer Denise Taddey

Close-up of card closed

Close-up of card opening

Close-up of card opened

We know you will be "Love Struck" with this collection.

Tuesday Tutorial: Copic Feather Blending

2011-12-27T08:00:00.003-06:00

This is a wonderful video on how to do "flicking" or "feathering" with your Copics from makeupartistkatie's Youtube channel. Doesn't she make this look easy?

The key to using Copics is practice, practice, practice! Come in for a large selection of Sketch Marker Colors.

Special Holiday Hours

2011-12-24T08:00:00.005-06:00

We know how important family is! We see it in our customer's beautiful creations you share with us!

We will have special "Holiday" hours the following days in order to spend time with our families.

December 24th 10:00am-3:00pm

December 25th CLOSED

December 26th CLOSED
December 31st 10:00am-3:00pm
January 1st CLOSED

Friday Recipe: Breakfast the Night Before

2011-12-23T08:00:00.001-06:00

Here's a quick recipe from allrecipes.com you can throw together the night before a special occasion so you can enjoy your company first thing in the morning while it cooks up! Enjoy!

Ingredients

1 pound bulk, fresh pork sausage, seasoned as desired
8 slices bread, cubed
2 cups cubed Cheddar cheese
4 eggs
2 1/2 cups milk
3/4 teaspoon dry mustard
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed or golden cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk

Directions
1.Cook sausage in large skillet until brown, breaking up with wooden spoon; drain. Pat sausage dry with paper towels. Grease 9x13-inch baking dish. Place bread cubes in baking dish. Sprinkle cubed Cheddar cheese over bread. Sprinkle sausage over cheese. Combine eggs, 2 1/2 cups milk and dry mustard in medium bowl; beat with rotary beater or fork until well mixed. Pour egg mixture over layered mixture in baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 8-24 hours.

2.Heat oven to 300 degrees F. Stir together cream of mushroom soup and 1/2 cup milk in small bowl. Pour over mixture in baking dish. Place baking dish on baking sheet. Bake, uncovered, about 1 1/2 hours or until center is set when baking dish is slightly jiggled. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Thursday Challenge: Emboss Resist

2011-12-22T08:00:00.002-06:00

Joanna's Demo was such a hit with our customers,

that it seemed appropriate to challenge you to Emboss Resist.

Need some help with the process? Click here for a tutorial on how to use the Distress Inks and Tools and then you can use that information to do it over your embossed image.

Still have questions? Stop in the Studio and we would be happy to demo the process to you in person!

Hero Arts Stamping Party Highlights

2011-12-21T11:01:00.000-06:00

Has a week already passed since our Hero Arts Party?? We had such a good time, we thought we would share some highlights!

Micaela did a wonderful job with the refreshments again! We had a Cranberry Punch to sip on while making free make and takes and of course snacks....fruit, hummus, cheese dip, pita chips, crackers and every one's favorite mocha cookie bars!

Joanna did a demo on how to make an awesome card with one of the new HA/Sizzix sets. We have the sample on display in the studio with a list of everything you need to reproduce it. See photos below.

Enjoy the photos and look for our next party on Wednesday, January 18th, 2012! We will be having a COPIC Party! Details to follow!

Customers Mary and Arlene making free make n takes while Marlene looks through the new HA Catalog.

Pam is enjoying refreshments while looking at the new catalog.

Denise stopped in as well to see what was new.

And now here are some photos of Joanna and her demo:

Joanna with her project

Joanna explaining the products used for her project

Joanna demonstrating how to get that watercolor look on her embossed image

Thank you to all our party attendees for making a GREAT party and we will see you soon for our next one!

Faux Letterpress Tutorial by Hero Arts

2011-12-20T13:14:00.000-06:00

We've been busy at Paper Studio demonstrating all the fun tools we have...including the Big Kick Die Roller Machine and the new Hero Arts/Sizzix Stamp and Embossing Sets. Check out this video that demonstrates a fun and new (new to us) way to ink the embossing folder for a letterpress type double inking look. Woo Hoo! We love to have a new way to use our tools. Hope you enjoy it ~ Micaela

Class Highlight: Valentine Cards

2011-12-19T17:39:00.002-06:00

Well you may be thinking it's still December and Paper Studio is offering a Valentine Class?! Yes we are...the January Class Schedule is finished! We want to help you get a jump on making Valentine Cards by offering this card class in January. Choose the date: Thursday, January 12 at 1:00pm or Tuesday, January 17 at 1:00pm. You will make two cards of each of the three designs shown above. I had so much fun designing and creating these cards and hop you will have fun with me in class making them for your friends and family.

This is a close up of the tri-fold card. I used papers from the new Valentine Collection by We R Memory Keepers. We will use an inking technique in class to shade the die cut used to highlight the butterfly.

How about this "Cute Cupcake" Card? You will be able to try out the new Sizzix/Hero Arts Stamp and Die set in class to make the cupcake that decorates this card.

I'm always hearing from customers and friends that they want to make a card for a special boy or guy in the family...and pink and lovey-dovey just won't do! So Monsters to the rescue with the "i only have eyes for you" card. We will have fun making this card and learn how to create a Center Step Card too.

Want to learn more? Click on Class Details Above for more details. Or call us at 715-356-6464. Register soon, we have limited supplies for this class. I hope you will join me for some Valentine fun ~ Micaela

Hero Arts Stamping Party

2011-12-12T10:46:00.001-06:00

Free Stamping Party

Wednesday, December 14

Stop In Between 1:00pm - 7:30pm

All In-Stock Hero Arts Products are 20% Off

All Pre-Paid Hero Arts Catalog Orders are 10% Off

Free Make and Takes | Free Gifts

Prize Drawings | Refreshments

Saturday Scrapbook Sketch and Layout

2011-12-10T08:00:00.001-06:00

Today's sketch is from Pencil Lines.

Here is what Deanna came up with:

Have a scrappy day!

Friday Recipe: Hot Chocolate

2011-12-09T10:00:00.001-06:00

Whew! Need a little break from winter? This is the time of year that I think is a good time for a home-made cup of hot Chocolate. This recipe is from All Recipe. It is close to my mother's. She always put vanilla ice cream in our cups...much more fun than half and half! I hope you enjoy a cup this weekend ~ Micaela

Ingredients
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 cup white sugar
1 pinch salt
1/3 cup boiling water
3 1/2 cups milk
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup half-and-half cream

Directions
1.Combine the cocoa, sugar and pinch of salt in a saucepan. Blend in the boiling water. Bring this mixture to an easy boil while you stir. Simmer and stir for about 2 minutes. Watch that it doesn't scorch. Stir in 3 1/2 cups of milk and heat until very hot, but do not boil! Remove from heat and add vanilla. Divide between 4 mugs. Add the cream to the mugs of cocoa to cool it to drinking temperature.

Tutorial: Pocket Card

2011-12-06T07:04:00.000-06:00

Many thanks to Shari Carroll (on the Hero Arts Site) for providing this week's clever tutorial. She shows us how to use one sheet of 8-1/2"x11" cardstock to create a unique pocket card. At the end of the tutorial she shows two variations on the original idea. Not crazy about all that stamping? This card also works well with patterned paper and simple stamping. How cute is the border punch she uses? You will find the newest Bubble Border Punch from Fiskars at Paper Studio, along with a nice variety of stamps, Distress Inks, and papers for your gift card creating.

Sunday Card Sketch New Card Maps

2011-12-04T05:44:00.000-06:00

Pagemaps inspires us for making scrapbook pages, but they also have card sketches to inspire us every now and then. This month we have new inspiration for both! Check out the cardmaps here.

Take a look at this beautiful and unique sketch:

We would love to see what you come up with! Share your creations with us on our Facebook page!

Holiday Wishes Open House

2011-12-01T16:10:00.000-06:00

Friday, December 2nd from 4:30pm to 7:30pm

Saturday, December 3rd from noon to 3:00pm

Enjoy home baked cookies and hot apple cider while you shop.

20% Off

All Fiskars Tools, Punches and Stamps

40% Off

All Brands of Christmas Stamps, Dies,

Embossing Folders and Punches!

The first 50 customers who make a purchase receive a free gift.

Need help telling your Santa what you really want for Christmas? Fill out a Holiday Wishes Form AND we will send your Santa an email letting him know what you've been admiring, wrap his selection for free, AND enter your name in a drawing for a
$25.00 Paper Studio Gift Certificate.

Limited Edition Fall Distress Ink

2011-11-30T13:39:00.000-06:00

We have a limited supply of Tim Holtz Fall 2011 Distress Ink Sets. These wonderful inks are released by Ranger Ink in limited quantities. They are sold as a set for $17.99. Ranger Ink will not be offering re-inkers, nor will they repeat this limited edition set...so stop in soon and get yours! (They also make a wonderful gift for your crafting friends!)

Tutorial: Liquid Pearls

2011-11-29T04:42:00.003-06:00

We love using Liquid Pearls and hope you will find new ways to incorporate them in your creative projects after viewing this wonderful tutorial from Ranger.

Class Highlight: Mini Memory Album

2011-11-28T10:00:00.014-06:00

Join me in making this small keepsake album that you will put together using designer paper and cardstock. I created the template for this book after some experimentation using a scoring tool, a paper trimmer, and various papers including a page of journaling cards. My original design resulted in a tiny book that was only 4" by 3"! For this class I've "upgraded" the size to 5" by 4" in order to allow the designer paper to show as a border around the photos and cards.

The great variety of colors and patterns in the Year-O-Graphy paper collection from Simple Stories works well for this project, and you'll be using all of the paper shown above, along with a full page of 4" by 3" journaling cards that coordinate. Your personal album will be one of a kind because you'll choose the layout of the pages and cards. Once your album is finished, fill its fold-out pages with photos, then jot down dates and other memories on the journaling cards. Keep it for yourself or give it to someone as a special handmade gift!

The cost of the class is $25 plus tax, and it is suitable for any level. Please bring along your favorite adhesive. To register please give us a call at 715-356-6464. I look forward to seeing you on one of the following dates:

Saturday, December 10th at 11:00am

Friday, December 30th at 1:00pm

Happy Crafting ~Joanna

Sunday Card Inspiration

2011-11-27T04:08:00.003-06:00

Christiane Muller designed and created this card for BoBunny's Website using a paper called "Noel Cut Outs" from the BoBunny "Noel" Collection. You will find this paper and other from the "Noel" Collection at Paper Studio. Stop in for more inspiration for your Christmas Card and Tag Making.

Saturday Scrapbook Inspiration

2011-11-26T04:31:00.000-06:00

Many thanks to the talented BoBunny Design Team Member Robbie Herring for this week's inspiring scrapbook layouts. We love the way she used papers and embellishments from the "Learning Curve" Collection. You will find this collection in stock and ready for you at Paper Studio. So why not do a little school scrapping or make a few cards with the fun papers in this collection?

Super Sale Starts Today!

2011-11-25T04:01:00.001-06:00

40% Sizzix

Dies, embossing folders, Ink-its, Big Shot, Big Kick, Sizzix for Hero Arts Sets, Tim Holtz Sizzix Items, Accessories, and cutting Pads.

Paper Sale 4 for $1.00

Choose from old favorites and a large variety of papers, die cut sheets, sticker sheets, glitter paper and more in our special sale section.

Embellishments only $0.99 Each

You'll find stickers, brads, journaling cards, rub-ons, layered chipboard, and flowers in our special sale section.

Friday 10-6 | Saturday 10-5 | Sunday 10-4

Happy Thanksgving

2011-11-24T03:55:00.000-06:00

From all of us at Paper Studio, Happy Thanksgiving!

We are closed today to visit with family. Paper Studio will open be open at 10:00am this Friday for our First Ever After Thanksgiving Sale. Enjoy a large selection of papers, 12"x12" sticker sheets, glitter and die cut papers at only 4 for $1.00. Choose from some old favorites and a variety of paper collections new to Paper Studio. Shop early for best selection. See you Friday!

After Thanksgiving Sale

2011-11-23T04:50:00.002-06:00

Our first ever After Thanksgiving Sale starts this Friday.

Join us for Super Savings.

All Sizzix Brand Items are 40% Off.

Huge Sale Section of Papers at 4 for $1.00

Great Variety of Embellishments for only $0.99

Turkey Tutorial

2011-11-22T04:37:00.001-06:00

Time for a little Thanksgiving Paper Fun: Make an Origami Turkey (or just admire this one!)

December's One Card Wonder: Bargello

2011-11-21T04:53:00.017-06:00

What is Bargello? Here is how Merriam-Webster's Online Dictionary defines it, "a needlework stitch that produces a zigzag pattern."

We will be using the rich, warm patterns from Simple Stories "Year-o-graphy" paper collection to complete this "cozy" project. Very few things warm my heart more than to cuddle up into my favorite quilt (the one my great-grandmother made using left over material from my grandmother's homemade dresses during her early school years) with a book when it is snowing outside. This card reminds me of a nice homemade quilt....and why not include a recommended "favorite books to read in the winter" list on the inside of the card with a gift card for that special person who would love to receive this project?

You will love how easy this is to make and will have a new way to use all those scraps I KNOW you all save from your favorite papers. Join me on either Friday, December 9 at 1:00pm or on Thursday, December 29 at 11:00am for this class. The class fee is only $5.00. Please call us at 715-356-6464 to register. Have a great week ~Deanna

Sunday Tag Sketch

2011-11-20T05:11:00.000-06:00

Did you know that in addition to card and scrapbook sketches that PageMaps has sketches for tags? How cool is that? You may have your Christmas Cards finished or well on their way to completion. So why not get going on gift tags? Stop in and make this fun snowman gift tag created and designed by Paper Studio Designer Joanna Carlson. She used the Fiskars Clear Set "Tis the Season" (an awesome 8"x8" large set with a great variety of sentiments, borders, winter and Christmas images). The tag is our featured make and take starting today. Say that you saw it online and you can make it for free. Stop in soon...make and take supplies are limited. If you love it, we can show you the ink, stickles, stamps and dies (in stock at Paper Studio) that Joanna used in creating the tag.

Saturday Sport Sketch

2011-11-19T15:02:00.000-06:00

Becky Fleck for PageMaps provides this week's double page sketch. We love what the PageMaps crew did with it and are inspired to do our own layout using papers and embellishments from the SEI "I'm an Athlete" collection available now at Paper Studio.

Pecan Pie Anyone?

2011-11-18T05:06:00.001-06:00

Yesterday morning Mr. Food featured this recipe on the Channel 12 Early Morning News Show. While I usually do not get too excited about his recipes, this one caught my attention. So I visited his website to get the recipe and a picture so I could share it. I have not had time to bake it. But, I hope it tastes as good as it looks. Let me know what you think ~Micaela

This is the recipe, copied completely from Mr. Food's website:

Even our Test Kitchen team can’t figure out how the layers of our Four-Layer Pecan Pie magically come together...but they do...and the result is a contrast of creamy filling, crunchy pecans, and a flaky refrigerated pie crust. (Serves: 8; Preparation Time: 15 min; Chilling Time: 4 hr; Cooking Time: 40 min)

Ingredients
1 refrigerated rolled pie crust (from a 15-ounce package)
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar, divided
2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
4 eggs
1 cup corn syrup
1 1/4 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Unroll pie crust and place in a 9-inch deep dish pie plate, pressing crust firmly into plate.

2.In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 egg. Beat at low speed until smooth; set aside.

3.In another medium bowl, beat 3 eggs. Add remaining sugar, the corn syrup, and remaining vanilla; mix well.

4.Spread cream cheese mixture in pie crust. Sprinkle with pecans and slowly pour corn syrup mixture over pecans.

5.Bake 40 to 45 minutes, or until center is set. Let cool, then refrigerate 4 hours or until ready to serve.

Tutorial: Stamping with Paper-Piecing

2011-11-16T17:05:00.000-06:00

Paper piecing is a fun way to add dimension and pattern to your stamping. This tutorial offers some good suggestions to remove some of the frustration from "fussy" cutting. I also found that I achieved a better result after following this tutorial. Have fun creating, ~Micaela

December Copic Technique Class

2011-11-14T16:52:00.002-06:00

I have a new project this month featuring the Colorless Blender and atyou Spica pens! This is such a neat card and project! You will be making the card below but I will share with you a very simple technique to add depth to your project and make your background look like snow flurries using your Colorless Blender. Then we will add some "sparkle" to it with atyou Spica Glitter Pens. You'll also get to try some of the other colors in the atyou Spica collection.

The information I will share in this class has to do with a few questions that come up quite often; "Which papers can I use and what inks?" We briefly discussed this last month. You will learn how to test any paper and ink in this month's class.

After the informational part of the class, we will get down to coloring! We will use a stamp from My Favorite Things called "Scarf for Three" as well as the following Copic Markers and atyou Spica pens. You will be given the paper and envelope to finish your project at home.

From our first class, please bring your Colorless Blender, R29 Lipstick Red and E15 Dark Suntan.
You will need to also bring, or purchase before attending class, the following: B00 Frost Blue, BG09 Blue Green, V09 Violet, E59 Walnut, and atyou Spica 00 Clear. Optional colors used on the project will be: E13 Light Suntan, YG 67 Moss, Y08 Acid Yellow,
atyou Spica 04 Orange and atyou Spica 23 Pitch Black.

I hope you can make it to class on any of the following days:

Wednesday, December 7th at 1:00pm, or
Friday, December 16th at 1:00pm, or
Wednesday, December 28th at 11:00am

Class fee is $5.00.

~~Deanna

Sunday Card Sketch My Favorite Things

2011-11-13T08:00:00.002-06:00

My Favorite Things just had their November Release and we have some new stamps in the studio including the one MFT Design Team Member, Karen Motz used for this sketch:

Come in soon for the best selection of the new releases from My Favorite Things! We also have some of the new Die-namics seen on the card! Fun stuff!

Saturday Scrapbook Sketch

2011-11-12T12:26:00.000-06:00

Here is a sketch from November's PageMaps....

Have fun with this sketch and be sure to share your interpretation of it on our Facebook page!

Welcome Winter Joy by Bo Bunny

2011-11-10T15:35:00.000-06:00

Yippee! We are having fun with the Bo Bunny Winter Joy Collection. Visit us and take a look at the papers in this collection...the purples, greens, and whimsical designs will inspire your winter and holiday layouts, paper projects and cards.

Check out coordinating stamps, gems and ribbons we've selected just for this collection. We are thinking this collection will make a fun and festive start album. What will you do with it?

Tutorial: Rosette (or Fan Fold) Flowers

2011-11-08T16:09:00.000-06:00

You may have noticed, we are having fun with fan fold flowers! They dress up a scrapbook layout, finish a card, make home decor items extra special, and create wonderful awards for children's events (think blue ribbon type awards.) This tutorial is very helpful. HOWEVER: Please use Super Tape to hold the scored piece together. AND: Please use a ThermoWeb Brand Jumbo Zots Glue Dot on the punched, round cardstock to hold the "fan" to the "base". That Jumbo Zots Glue Dot and Super Tape will take the frustration out of making this flower. Have fun creating!

Sunday Card Sketch

2011-11-06T08:00:00.001-06:00

Thank you to the ladies at Sketch Support for this weeks sketch.

Take a look at "Be Thankful" by Janice Daquila-Pardo, Guest Designer:

I love what she did with We R Memory Keepers "Autumn Splendor"!

We still have this paper line at the studio, but it is going fast....come in soon for the best selection.

Saturday Scrapbook Sketch from Pencil Lines

2011-11-05T12:41:00.000-05:00

Pencil Lines recently had a design call using this sketch....although the deadline has passed, I thought it was to great to not share it with all our Scrapbooking Friends!

Take a look:

What do you think? We would love to see what you come up with!

Friday Recipe: Cider Punch

2011-11-04T09:40:00.000-05:00

This recipe from Food Network is good hot or cold...with or without brandy. I plan to sip a little hot cider punch while I watch the Packer win again on Sunday. ~Micaela
Directions
Combine 4 cups apple cider, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 whole cloves and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Halve 1 orange; squeeze the juice into the pan and add the peels. Bring to a simmer, then remove from the heat and let steep 10 to 15 minutes. Strain into a pitcher and add 3/4 cup apple brandy or bourbon. Chill at least 2 hours or overnight. Serve in tall glasses on the rocks or reheat and serve warm in punch mugs. Garnish with orange slices.

Thursday Challenge: Free Stuff on Facebook!

2011-11-03T10:11:00.000-05:00

Visit us on Facebook and follow the instructions in the post to have a chance to win free stuff! You have until Monday to enter. Winner announced on Facebook on Tuesday. Not a Paper Studio Friend on Facebook? Friend us know so you can enter and learn about stuff before anyone else!

Product Spotlight: Magnetic Discs

2011-11-02T13:59:00.000-05:00

Basic Grey Magnetic Discs are back in stock! We love them for bookmark cards, wallet cards, and just about any project that benefits from a little hidden closure. They are super slim and have their own adhesive. Visit us soon to pick up your package!

This is the magnetic disc set in action on the wallet card project we featured as a class in October.

The discs are so slim they "disappear" under patterned paper.

Video for Three Bows

2011-11-01T06:57:00.000-05:00

This is a really helpful tutorial on three different bows. Shari Carroll (for Hero Arts Videos) shares ways to easily make these bows. I like using my stitching piercer pad instead of the foam scrap. The Bazzill or In Stitches piercing pads have a larger work surface and have grid lines to keep your bows even.

Stop in and I will show you an easier way to trim the ends of your ribbon (as in the third bow)to get an even "v" shape on the the tails. All in all this is a great video tutorial to help with bow making. ~Micaela

Card Sketch and Card

2011-10-30T16:06:00.000-05:00

Many thanks to the talented designers at My Favorite Things for this week's card sketch.

Don't you love what design team member Michele did with the sketch using a stamp from their Pure Innocence Line of Stamps? We do! You will find this MFT stamp set (and many others) along will all the Copic Markers you will need to complete the card in stock and waiting for you at Paper Studio.

Saturday Scrapbook Sketch and Simple Stories Layout

2011-10-29T11:25:00.000-05:00

The ladies over at Sketch Support have been playing with Simple Stories! Looks like they are having a lot of fun!

This is the sketch they used this week:

Here is just one of the many samples from design team member Jill Sarginson:

I love the calendars in the background!

We are currently carrying two of Simple Stories lines. "Baby Steps" and their newest line "Year-o-graphy".

Come on in and see what we have, you will be delighted with this companies paper lines...we sure are!

New Arrival: Christmas Treasures Stamp Set

2011-10-27T16:05:00.000-05:00

Today we received more stamps! Stop in and take a look at the "Christmas Treasures" clear stamp set from Penny Black, Inc. Think of all the classic cards, tags and gift bags you can decorate with these stamps. The two projects shown below are from the Penny Black, Inc. Design Team.

Double Bow Tutorial by Deanna

2011-10-25T10:02:00.001-05:00

The following tutorial is taken from one of our private online classrooms. You will only need one 18" length of ribbon for your project, unless you want to make numerous bows.~~Deanna

Welcome to the Double Bow Tutorial!

The directions and photos in this tutorial will help you create a double bow. If you need a demonstration or help, call or come in and Deanna will be happy to show you how to do this in person.

Cut a length of ribbon into three pieces measuring approximately 18 inches long each.

With your plastic fork, you will start by putting the ribbon around the concave part of the fork, or with the prongs facing you. Make sure the longer part of the ribbon is behind (as shown).

To make this bow a double bow, you will wrap the long strand around the fork an addition time.

Take the end of the longer strand (the back one) and bringing it under the front short strand put the end through the center fork prong, pulling it through, then up through the top center and back through the bottom center.

Now take the front strand that was shorter and pull it through the TOP center of the fork. Turn the fork upside down and tie the two ends into a tight knot.

Get a Glue dot to put on the bow before you slide it off the fork.

Pull the bow tails down and put the glue dot on the knot/tails. This will help to keep the tails going the right direction without a lot of fussing.

Slide your bow off your fork.

The loops of the bow will need to be separated by gently pulling the inside loops out of the top loop.

Your bow is now ready for your project. Adhere to your project and trim the ends. Viola! You are done!

Sunday Card Sketch and Two Cards

2011-10-23T10:53:00.000-05:00

This week we are featuring a sketch from My Favorite Things Wednesday Sketch Club. Did you know that each Wednesday they post a sketch and links to their design team members' finished cards? And that if you enter their challenge you could win a prize? Use the link above to check it out!

I just loved what MFT Design Team Member Barbara Anders did with the sketch.

And I like they way she used one of the sentiments from the "Inspired by Autumn" stamp set on the inside of the card...how clever!

You will find this stamp set and all the Copic Sketch markers you need to add Autumn color to your stamping projects ready for you at Paper Studio in Minocqua, Wisconsin.

Add a little whimsy to your Autumn stamping projects with the new MFT ala mode "Sweetest Pumpkin" stamp set. Jesse Knightrone (MFT Design Team Member) created the adorable card show above based on the weekly featured sketch.

This set is great for your Autumn Card needs...girlfriend, Thanks Giving, Thank You, and more. Stop in soon and see all of the new stamps and stamp sets that just arrived at Paper Studio. Have a great week stamping and crafting everyone -- Micaela

Caramel Puffs

2011-10-21T06:07:00.001-05:00

How about a treat for some of your little (or grown up) monsters? I must admit that I have not (as of yet) made this recipe. But it seems pretty simple. I am sorry that the Food Network did not list amounts...So I will just melt a small amount of caramels and chocolate and wing it! Hope you have fun with this treat and that it is not too tricky -- Micaela

Directions
Dip marshmallows halfway into the warm caramel. Let the excess drip off, then dip in crushed pretzels and place on a lightly oiled parchment-lined baking sheet until set. Drizzle with melted chocolate.

Photograph by Karl Juengel for Food Network

Challenge: Search Out Good News

2011-10-20T17:52:00.000-05:00

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

It seems that bad or depressing news is all around us. Our challenge this Thursday is to look for good news. I found this video story from MSNBC on a website dedicated to good news. Visit happynews.com for more good news. Let's start a trend and share some good news.

Have a great Thursday everyone --Micaela

Product Spotlight: atyou Spica Pens

2011-10-19T17:35:00.000-05:00

This week we got in the Set A and Set B of the atyou Spica Glitter Pens.

Here is what Copic has to say about these "sparkly" pens:

The atyou Spica Glitter Pens come in 24 transparent colors, and contain pigment based, archival, non-toxic, and acid-free ink. Best of all this pen has a no-clog nib and will write for over 360 yards – twice the length of other writing pens.

The sets are going fast, so come in soon to get yours!

Set A 12 colors: Lavender, Pink, Red, Orange, Lemon, Melon, Olive, Turquoise, Sky Blue, Black, Gold, and Silver

Set B 12 colors: Lilac, Blossom, Peach, Buttermilk, Mint, Baby Blue, Sand, Chocolate, Lipstick, Garnet, Pitch Black, and Clear

We also have open stock of Clear for just $2.99.

Class Highlight: Six Cards for October

2011-10-17T05:06:00.004-05:00

I know I am not alone when I say that the We R Memory Keepers "Autumn Splendor" Collection is a favorite! We are finding many ways to use these papers, stamps and stickers in cards, layouts and altered art projects. Our friends and family members are loving it too.

So it should be no surprise that I decided to use some of the "Autumn Splendor" papers in my Six Card Class for October. I love how the designs came together. What I like best is the warmness of these cards. They certainly make you think of the changing seasons.

Join me for class on Wednesday, October 26th at 1:00pm to make two of each of the three designs shown above. Click on the Current Class Details Tab (above, right) for more information on this class and others offered in October.~~Deanna

P.S. The class fee includes materials, instruction, envelopes and a clear box perfect for storing these cards. Call us at 715-356-6464 to register.

Sunday Card Sketch and Card

2011-10-16T04:47:00.000-05:00

The talented group at Card Positioning Systems came up with this card sketch. Visit their blog for more inspiration and card making ideas. What will you do with this sketch? We like to use a sketch as a starting point for some cards. Think of it as a pattern or just a loose representation for placing stamps or other elements on your card. We'd love it if you would share a photo of your card on our Facebook Page.

Micaela used this week's sketch as inspiration. Scroll down to see a list of materials she used to complete the card. Better yet, visit Paper Studio and see this and other cards to inspire you.

Bazzill Basics Cardstock in:

Swiss Dot Salt

Splash

Smoothies in Coconut Swirl

May Arts Ribbon in Blue/Light Blue Satin Stitch #7681

Fiskars Stamp Set "Tis the Season"

Hero Arts in "Celebrate Everyday"

Distress Ink in Tumbled Glass

Versafine Ink in Smoke Grey

Scrapbook Sketch and Autumn Layout

2011-10-15T06:33:00.001-05:00

Becky Fleck created this sketch for Pagemaps October Sketches. Thank you Becky for providing some Autumn Inspiration. Micaela created the layout below using this sketch as a guide.

Visit Paper Studio to see the papers, dies, and the Slice Design Cards (Farm Life and Back to School) used in creating this week's layout.

Lisa's Low-Fat Microwave Potato Chips

2011-10-14T05:11:00.001-05:00

Paper Studio Friend (and all around talented crafty girl) Lisa Nagel provided this week's recipe. Thanks, Lisa, for a guilt free yummy snack!

Microwave Potato Chips

Ingredients:
One potato
Pam Cooking Spray
Microwave Safe Plate
Salt or Other Favorite Seasoning

Directions:
Wash and rinse the potato
Cut the potato into very thin (think almost paper thin) pieces...a mandoline helps
(Not sure what a mandoline is? Click here to see a video on how to use one.)
Spray the plate with Pam Cooking Spray
Place sliced potato pieces on the plat (no overlapping)
Spray the potato layer with Pam Cooking Spray
Microwave for about 6 minutes (ovens vary...they must brown to be crisp)
Toss or sprinkle with salt or other favorite seasoning
Repeat until all slices are chip

Challenge: Celebrate A Crazy Holiday

2011-10-13T04:24:00.002-05:00

I love to send a card to someone for no reason. So, how much fun would it be to send a card to someone for a fun and crazy reason? Visit the Website Holiday Insights for a different "holiday" or "special" day each day of the year.

Think you might send your Sweetheart a card on October 15, Sweetest Day? Planning on sending your Boss a card on October 16, National Bosses Day? Why settle for an average well know occasion. Why not send a card decorated with buttons to a friend on October 21, Count Your Buttons Day? The Holiday Insights site has lists of crazy holidays by month and a little history on them and more mainstream holidays.

So everyone get going on celebrating a fun, little known holiday...it will make someone happy and just might put a smile on your face too! --Micaela

Product Spotlight: Picture ThatSound On Sale

2011-10-12T05:33:00.001-05:00

Pair sound with pictures of your life's most important events. If a picture is worth a thousand words, imagine what it would be worth by adding sound. Perfect for scrapbooking, framing, or gift giving. AND now through October 26 both in-stock varieties (Bridal and Birthday) are on sale at 20% off at Paper Studio.

Have you ever looked at a special photo and closed your eyes to picture the sound in your head? Maybe your daughter laughing, your son's young voice reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, your party guests yelling "Surprise!" or your grandmother's singing voice. Now you can pair your photos with the actual sound of that special moment.

Each PictureThatSound™ card features a paper design to highlight a life experience. The PictureThatSound card gives you an inspirational starting point to add your own photos, embellishments, and handwriting...but most importantly the ability to record sound. Your end product will be a unique family heirloom.

Why our customers love PictureThatSound:

20 seconds of recording time
Long-life batteries that are easy to replace without losing your recording
Acid- and lignin-free custom-designed paper, archival quality to last for generations
Pull-tab to save the recording forever
Thin design won't bulk-up your scrapbook
Recessed record and play buttons to prevent your recording from playing while your scrapbook is closed
Two simple designs in each package allowing you to customize your family artifact
Choose from many designs... perfect for any life experience
Use your card in a scrapbook, frame it, add a magnet for the refrigerator, or send it as a gift

Each PictureThatSound package includes two 5x7-inch cards to help you jump-start your creative project.

Peek-A-Boo Box Tutorial

2011-10-11T05:42:00.000-05:00

This tutorial came our way through the Fiskars Website. The tutorial shows you how to use the Fiskars Everywhere Punch, trimmer with scoring blade, hole punch and border punch to make a beautiful treat box with a peek-a-boo opening.

Paper Studio in Minocqua has the Everywhere Starter Set, scalloped square, circle and scalloped circle as well as a large variety of border punches in stock and ready for you.)

Why not create a few for Halloween Treats now and plan to make more for your Thanksgiving and Christmas guests.

Class Highlight: Copic Markers

2011-10-10T06:37:00.000-05:00

I love to color! There is just something theraputic about coloring.

I also love to use Copic Markers. You can probably imagine how excited I was then when Micaela sent me to a Copic Certification Class. What that means for our customers is that I am certified to teach you about the company, markers, and help with color choices, inks, papers, etc. If I don't have an immediate answer, I should be able to find out for you.

We have the complete Papercrafter's collection of Copics in Sketch Markers. That is 144 colors to choose from! To get our customers familiar with Copic markers or for those of you that have been using Copic markers, we will be offering a variety of classes to teach you some of the things I learned at Certification class.

This month and next, we have a class that will please any skill level. We will make the two cards pictured above. The card on the easel uses just four colors (students will need to bring or purchase three of the colors for class; R29 Lipstick Red, YG03 Yellow Green, and E15 Dark Suntan) for the focal image. The other card we make uses those colors with the natural blending family colors.

Join us on Friday, October 21st at 1:00pm or Saturday, October 29th at 1:00pm for an informative class and two beautiful cards. Class fee is $5.00 plus marker cost, if you do not already have the above markers. Please also bring your Blender Pen.~~Deanna

Sunday Card Sketch

2011-10-09T11:08:00.000-05:00

Our friends at My Favorite Things provided this week's sketch. Visit their blog for even more ideas and inspiration. (Yes, we will soon receive our shipment of many of their new stamps and die sets!) Happy card making everyone!

Saturday 12x12 Scrapbook Sketch

2011-10-08T14:37:00.000-05:00

This week's 12x12 Scrapbook Sketch is by Becky Fleck for the PageMaps site. We plan to use leaves in place of the butterflies to turn this into a fall layout. Have fun crafting this weekend!

Emerial Lagasse's Apple Cake

2011-10-07T09:21:00.000-05:00

Autumn leaves, crisp blue skies, fresh apples...just a few things that I love about this time of year. I love the smell of apples and ANY sweet, baked good made with apples! (It was sunny and 79 in Minocqua yesterday but I still plan to bake this weekend.) I hope you and your family will enjoy this delicious Apple Cake. -- Micaela

Ingredients

Cake:
1 stick plus 2 teaspoons unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups peeled, cored and chopped apples

Crumble Topping:
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Brown Sugar Glaze:
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons water

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 13 by 9-inch glass baking dish with 2 teaspoons of the butter.

In a large bowl, cream together the remaining stick of butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs 1 at a time, beating after the addition of each. In a separate bowl or on a piece of parchment, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Add to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream and vanilla. Fold in the apples. Pour into the prepared baking dish, spreading out to the edges.

To make the topping, in a bowl, combine the sugar, flour, cinnamon, and butter, and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the topping over the cake and bake until golden brown and set, 35 to 40 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes.

To make the glaze, in a bowl, combine the sugar, vanilla, and water and mix until smooth. Drizzle the cake with the glaze and let harden slightly. Serve warm.

Class Highlight: Halloween Cards

2011-10-04T11:58:00.104-05:00

The air is getting cooler, the leaves are starting to change...soon it'll be Halloween! Time for mischief, magic and spooky moments. Halloween is one of my favorite holidays, and I had a lot of fun creating these cards with the fantastic Halloween paper in store. Each card has a different style card base to give them all a unique look. I call them my Bewitched, Haunted Mansion, and Modern Folk Art cards - can you guess which is which?

Surprise! It's not just the outside of the card that gets the star treatment - two of the three Halloween cards have the inside decorated as well. It's fun to add small touches, like the owl and moon above, to tie your whole card together.

In this class you'll learn how to create a free standing card and a "gate card" that opens up to reveal a stylish inside, along with how to use a variety of punches and inking techniques that will add depth and detail to your cards.

Speaking of details, how cute is this little witch from the Bella Blvd paper line? She might be a witch, but I'm sure that she'll create only good spells while gazing in her "magic mirror." Come create something of your own this Halloween and share these fun cards with your friends and family (or keep them for yourself!)

If you would like to sign up for this class, please email us or call Paper Studio at 715-356-6464 to register and secure your spot as there is limited space available! Join me on Saturday October 8th at 10:30 AM, Sunday October 9th at 1:00 PM, or Tuesday October 11th at 11:00 AM. You will make one of each card; the class also includes envelopes and a special pass to the invitation only blog (Paper Studio's own On-Line Classroom) with step by step instructions and pictures. I look forward to seeing you! ~Joanna

Sunday Card Sketch

2011-10-02T12:20:00.001-05:00

The Sweet Stop is having a month of "Blast from the Past" challenges.

This sketch was 121 sketches ago:

This is the card that Paper Studio Designer Joanna created with the sketch:

The papers, flowers, cardstock, ribbon, buttons, stamp set and Epiphany Crafts Epoxy "Dots" she used are all in stock and ready for your creative projects and cards.

Saturday Scrapbook Sketch: Pagemaps

2011-10-01T10:16:00.000-05:00

It's a new month and that means Page Maps has new inspiration!

Today's sketch is a Double 8 1/2 x 11 but will easily work for your Double 12 x 12 pages.

Take a look:

Have a good weekend!

2011-09-30T04:12:00.001-05:00

As the temperature drops, I love to mix up warm dips on the weekend. Take your crock pot out, start a fire in the fireplace, put on your favorite old movie (okay...or put on the game) and cozy up with friends and family and enjoy this tasty treat. Have a great weekend -- Micaela.

Spinach Artichoke Dip
(from the Food Network and Alton Brown)
Ingredients
• 1 cup thawed, chopped frozen spinach
• 1-1/2 cups thawed, chopped frozen artichoke hearts
(I use canned...just can't seem to located frozen in Minocqua.)
• 6 ounces cream cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions
Boil spinach and artichokes in 1 cup of water until tender and drain. Discard liquid. Heat cream cheese in microwave for 1 minute or until hot and soft. Stir in rest of ingredients and serve hot.

Thursday Challenge: Have a Little Fun!

2011-09-29T16:46:00.000-05:00

It is rainy and cold in Minocqua today. So, who couldn't use a silly fun to make us smile? I enjoy this "Evolution of Dance" by Judson Laipply. Take a break from your busy day and dance along or just smile along with me. --Micaela

Halloween Stamps and Supplies

2011-09-28T17:42:00.000-05:00

You can make adorable Halloween Cards, Tags, Treat Bags, and Party Favors with this stamp set from Penny Black Ink. We are having fun preparing for this spooky holiday and are here to help inspire you!

Sizzix + Hero Arts = Fantastic Results!

2011-09-27T16:07:00.001-05:00

Jennifer McGuire shares this great video showing how to use the NEW Hero Arts and Sizzix Sets. Some feature stamp(s) and a matching embossing folder and some feature stamp(s) and matching dies that cut the outline of the stamped image! Really! The possibilities are endless! Visit Jennifer's website Jennifer McGuire Ink to see some beautiful cards she made with these great sets. Or scroll down to see two cards that were featured on the Hero Arts Website:

Shari Carroll used the "Antique Flowers and Butterflies" Die and Stamp Set 657773 to create this card.

Tami Hartley used the Stamp and Embossing Folder set "Mixed Flowers" to create this card.

Class Highlight: "Autumn Splendor" Book

2011-09-26T11:27:00.000-05:00

Colored leaves,crisp air and hot apple pie are just a few of the reasons I love Autumn. I swooned when the We R Memory Keepers Autumn Splendor Collection arrived at Paper Studio. I knew I wanted to create a "book" with that paper line for all my favorite fall memories! I'm so happy with how it turned out that it's now offered as a class for October!

This book has five pages and eight places for photos. Lots of room for journaling by hand or with the Cosmo Cricket Tiny Type stickers.

Fiskars Border and 3in1 Corner Hand Punches are used for added interest on the matting pieces. A bit of inking on the paper edges gives the book a vintage loved feel.

If you've ever wanted to try the We R Memory Keepers "the Cinch" now is your chance for that's how the whole book was bound together. So come join me on Monday, October 10th at 11:00 AM or Wednesday, October 19th at 11:00 AM. Send us an Email or phone Paper Studio at 715-356-6464 to register today!

I look forward to sharing the splendor of autumn and this book with you! -Misty

Sunday Card Sketch from My Favorite Things

2011-09-25T08:00:00.002-05:00

Today's sketch is from My Favorite Things Wednesday Stamp Club.

Look what Jeanne girl did with the use of the We R Memory Keepers Autumn Splender (Currently in stock) and the Pure Innocence Lil' Pumpkin stamp (check in studio, on order) .

Deanna came up with a sample using the above sketch, but due to camera difficulties was unable to upload it! No worries, just come in and see it. It features Midnight Frost and Pure Innocence Snow Adorable.

Saturday Scrapbook Sketch from Creative Imaginations

2011-09-24T08:03:00.001-05:00

Creative Imaginations has a new September/October Sketch Challenge up.

Of course, there is a prize that goes along with those who participate and post on their site.

Here's the details from their blog:

You remember how we play, right? Simply create a layout, card, or altered item based on the sketch posted here each month and upload it into appropriate folder in the C.I. gallery under "Sketches and Challenges". NOTE: You can post your challenge submission either in the September Sketch Gallery or October Sketch Gallery!

Remember these few guidelines when entering. Your entry must be created for the challenge and consist of 80% Creative Imaginations products. You will then be automatically entered into a drawing to win a great prize valued at at least $25 from Creative Imaginations. Challenge must have more than one entry to be considered valid. Hurry this challenge ends October 31, 2011!

Now for the sketch:

If you need Creative Imaginations supplies, come in and see what we've got!

Friday Recipe: Chai Shortbread

2011-09-23T10:46:00.000-05:00

When the weather starts changing to fall, I start thinking about all things Chai! So it is no surprise that I should be looking for recipes online. So now that it is "baking" season, why not combine the flavor of chai with a cookie.

Thanks to myrecipes.com for today's yummy recipe!

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (about 6 3/4 ounces)
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Dash of ground cloves
Dash of freshly ground black pepper
3/4 cup powdered sugar
10 tablespoon butter, softened
1 tablespoon ice water

Preparation

Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife.
Combine flour and next 5 ingredients (through pepper), stirring well with a whisk.
Place sugar and butter in a medium bowl; beat with a mixer at medium speed until light and fluffy. Gradually add flour mixture to butter mixture, beating at low speed just until combined (mixture will appear crumbly). Sprinkle dough with 1 tablespoon ice water; toss with a fork.
Divide dough in half.
Shape dough into 2 (6-inch-long) logs; wrap each log in plastic wrap.
Chill 1 hour or until very firm.

Preheat oven to 375°.

Unwrap dough logs.
Carefully cut each log into 18 slices using a serrated knife.
Place dough circles 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
Bake at 375° for 10 minutes.
Cool on pans 5 minutes.
Remove cookies from pans; cool completely on wire racks.

I hope you enjoy these cookies!

Deanna