:GIVEAWAY WINNER: Creating Keepsakes March/April 2012 Issue

I have a winner for my giveaway of the March/April 2012 issue of Creating Keepsakes!

CONGRATS, AILEEN!

Watch your email inbox for further details on how to claim your prize!

Stay tuned for more great giveaways on the AMOM blog!

:GIVEAWAY: Creating Keepsakes March/April 2012 Issue

You're going to love the March/April 2012 issue of Creating Keepsakes magazine! 

According to the CK description, this is what you'll find between the covers:

* new style inspiration for layouts about your family,
* 8 cool techniques to help you "leap ahead" in your scrapbooking,
* clever ideas to scrapbook baby photos (taken recently or not),
* 5 new uses for pigment powder,
* heartwarming ways to celebrate friendship,
* easy-peasy scraplifting tips,
* and more.

GIVEAWAY:

AND, Creating Keepsakes is allowing me to give away a copy to one lucky AMOM reader! Just leave a comment to this post by 5 p.m. CST on Thursday, March 22nd, 2012 and you'll be entered for a chance to win! 

Random.org will choose and I'll announce the winner on Friday.

Would you like FIVE MORE CHANCES TO WIN?? Simply visit these other blogs/bloggers who are also giving away copies and enter their giveaways as well:

Kim Jackson

https://www.jacksoki.com/

Kim Watson

https://kj-starre.blogspot.com/

Adele Beck

https://considerthedayseized.blogspot.com/

Suzy Plantamura

https://suzyplantamura.typepad.com/

The Scrap Review

https://www.thescrapreview.com

GOOD LUCK!!

:GIVEAWAY WINNER: Scrapbooking Ideas for Every Season from Creating Keepsakes

CONGRATS, DIANE!!

You are the lucky winner of a free copy of Scrapbooking Ideas for Every Season from Creating Keepsakes!! Watch your email inbox for further details on how to claim your prize.

Don't miss out on more great giveaways coming soon! If you haven't already, sign up for updates to the AMOM blog by email subscription or your favorite blog reader through the links in the right sidebar. Maybe Random.org will make your number lucky next time!

:GIVEAWAY: Scrapbooking Ideas for Every Season from Creating Keepsakes

Creating Keepsakes has just released another great special edition, Scrapbooking Ideas for Every Season.

Whether you're just getting started with scrapbooking or have been at it for a while, there are always use for a little extra inspiration. This special issue might be just the ticket.

CK Description:
Showcasing hundreds of scrapbooking ideas to inspire you throughout the seasons, this new special issue from Creating Keepsakes is a must-have resource for your year-round scrapbooking. With plenty of 2-page layout ideas to help you scrapbook more photos in less time, color combinations and patterns to refresh your creativity, season-specifictips for better photo taking, and more, you'll reach for Scrapbooking Ideas for Every Season again and again.

Here's a sneak peek:

Open publication - Free publishing

:GIVEAWAY: 
Would you like to win a free copy of Scrapbooking Ideas for Every Season? Simply leave a comment directly to this post (a reply to your email subscription does not work) by Thursday, January 19th, 2012 to enter for your chance to win!

Random.org will choose and I'll announce the winner on Friday.

GOOD LUCK!!

:GIVEAWAY WINNER: Scrapbooking Holidays & Seasons by Creating Keepsakes

CONGRATS, JODI!!

Please watch your email inbox for further details on how to claim your prize...

If you'd like your own copy of Scrapbooking Holidays & Celebrations, it is available at Scrapbook.com for only $6.99!

Don't miss out on more great giveaways coming soon! If you haven't already, sign up for updates to the AMOM blog by email subscription or your favorite blog reader through the links in the left sidebar. Maybe Random.org will make your number lucky next time!

:GIVEAWAY: Scrapbooking Holidays & Celebrations by Creating Keepsakes

Creating Keepsakes has another great special issue hitting the shelves that you won't want to miss!

Scrapbooking Holidays & Celebrations would make a great holiday gift for the scrapbooker in your life...or get yourself an early gift! You'll be set with inspiration to  keep you scrapping all through the coming year.

Description:
Whether your holidays and celebrations are casual get-together or formal events, this special issue from Creating Keepsakes magazine is sure to be a trusted source of scrapbooking inspiration! The gallery of 50 outstanding ideas is a quick source of scrapliftable layouts, and you'll also discover ways to make your relationships shine on your scrapbook pages, photo-taking tips to catch meaningful moments and details of your celebrations, and journaling ideas to capture the points of view of your loved ones. Learn ways to create easy holiday accents and even ideas for storing your holiday-themed supplies. Pick up this issue today for non-stop scrapbooking inspiration for all your celebrations during the upcoming year!

Check out a sneak peek of this wonderful issue here:

Open publication - Free publishing - More celebrations

GIVEAWAY:
Here's your chance to win a free copy of Scrapbooking Holidays & Celebrations for yourself! Simply leave a comment to this post by 5 p.m. CST on Thursday, November 17, 2011.

Random.org will choose and I will announce the winner on Friday!

GOOD LUCK!

:GIVEAWAY WINNER: Scrapbooking with Fabric & Notions by Creating Keepsakes

CONGRATS, KAREN!!

Please watch your inbox for further details on how to claim your prize!!

If you didn't win, don't despair...Scrapbooking with Fabric & Notions is available for purchase for $14.99 at Scrapbook.com. Pick up your copy today!!

:GIVEAWAY: Scrapbooking with Fabric & Notions from Creating Keepsakes [CONTEST CLOSED]

While I love my regular issues of Creating Keepsakes, I always look forward to their special issues as well. I love these how they take a topic and examine every way that in can be used to make our scrapbooking creations even more beautiful.

Creating Keepsakes new special issue, Scrapbooking with Fabric & Notions, does just that!

Description:
Discover how to enhance your scrapbook layouts using buttons, fabric, thread, and other materials from the sewing world. From using quick, pre-made accent options to creating beautifully sewn backgrounds, we'll help you learn the ins and outs of adding homespun textures to your layouts with patterns, step-by-step instructions, and more. You won't want to miss this "sew" special issue from Creating Keepsakes.

Check out a sneak peek at the issue below:

Open publication - Free publishing - More fabric

GIVEAWAY:
Would you like your very own copy of Scrapbooking with Fabric & Notions from CK? If so, here's your chance! Simply leave a comment to this post by 5 p.m. on Thursday, November 10, 2011.

It's that easy!

Random.org will choose and I'll announce the winner on Friday!

GOOD LUCK!!

:GIVEAWAY WINNER: Sketches for Scrapbooking: One-Page Sketches Volume 1

CONGRATS, MARTY!!

You'll have some great sketch inspiration on its way to you soon. Watch your inbox for further details on how to claim your prize.

If you'd like your own copy of Sketches for Scrapbooking: One-Page Sketches (vol. 1), it is available at Scrapbook.com for only $17.99!

Don't miss out on more great giveaways coming soon! If you haven't already, sign up for updates to the AMOM blog by email subscription or your favorite blog reader through the links in the left sidebar. Maybe Random.org will make your number lucky next time!

:REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Sketches for Scrapbooking: One-Page Sketches Volume 1

Sketches are near and dear to many scrappers hearts.

Whether they are simply short on time (aren't we all) or simply going through a bought of scrapper's block, sketches are an invaluable resource.

While I've been a long time of Page Maps from Becky Fleck (volume 1 and volume 2), I've recently discovered another great source for sketch idea books.

They are called Sketches for Scrapbooking from Allison Davis. The volume I am discussing today is her recent first edition for single page designs - Sketches for Scrapbooking Sketches: One-Page Sketches Volume 1.

Here's a list of contents and features:

1. 30 versatile one-page sketches including designs for layouts with anywhere from 1 to 6 photos
2. spiral binding for a functional, lay-flat design
3. a detailed key with each design which:
1. includes an area that differentiates where cardstock and patterns were used (also differentiates between types of pattern such as small pattern, large pattern, stripe, etc.),
2. gives precise size measurements of all major elements,
3. gives measurements for placement of major elements, AND 
4. offers a list of 5+ ideas for possible variations of the design that can be used to stretch the design even further!

While Sketches for Scrapbooking Sketches: One-Page Sketches Volume 1 is certainly a no-frills sketch book (no color or sample layouts included), there are some definite benefits to this...the focus is on the design and allows the user to really bring the design to life with their own photos and product choices.

While this might be Allison's first edition of sketches for one-page layouts, she's got a well-established line of sketch books for 2-page designs and also a couple for cardmaking. Check them all out here.

GIVEAWAY:

Lucky for all of you out there that love using sketches, I have one free copy of Sketches for Scrapbooking Sketches: One-Page Sketches Volume 1 to give away!

Simply answer the following question in a comment to this post by 5 p.m. CST on Thursday, September 29th, 2011 and you'll be entered for your chance to win:

Were you aware of Allison Davis's Sketches for Scrapbooking series before reading this post? If yes, have you previously purchased one of her volumes of sketches?

Random.org will choose and I'll post the winner on Friday.

GOOD LUCK!!

:GIVEAWAY WINNER: Creative Spaces from Creating Keepsakes

It looks like the early bird does NOT get the worm this time...in fact, it is quite the opposite!

CONGRATS, SAMMIE!!

Watch your email inbox for further details on how to claim your free copy of Creative Spaces from Creating Keepsakes!

If you'd like your own copy of Creative Spaces from CK, it is available at Scrapbook.com for only $14.99!

Don't miss out on more great giveaways coming soon! If you haven't already, sign up for updates to the AMOM blog by email subscription or your favorite blog reader through the links in the left sidebar. Maybe Random.org will make your number lucky next time!

:GIVEAWAY: Creative Spaces from Creating Keepsakes [CONTEST CLOSED]

I have a straight up giveaway for you today.

I have an extra copy of CK's special issue titled Creative Spaces.

All you have to do is answer the following question by 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 22nd, 2011 and you'll be entered for your chance to win:

What is your favorite thing about your own creative space?

Random.org will choose and I'll announce the winner on Friday.

GOOD LUCK!!

:GIVEAWAY WINNER: Don't Say Cheese! from Ella Publishing

I apologize that I'm a little late in announcing the winner of this week's giveaway...been a busy week.

CONGRATS, SHERRY!

Please watch your inbox for more details on how to claim your prize.

Don't miss out on more great giveaways coming soon! If you haven't already, sign up for updates to the AMOM blog by email subscription or your favorite blog reader through the links in the left sidebar. Maybe Random.org will make your number lucky next time!

:REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Don't Say Cheese from Ella Publishing [CONTEST CLOSED]

What is the most personal element that you can add to any scrapbook layout?

Photos, of course!

Isn't it all of our wonderful moments and memories caught on film that got us wrapped up in this wonderful hobby of scrapbooking, after all?

Well, I don't know one scrapbooker that doesn't strive to make the most of their photos and Ella Publishing has a great new eBook available to offer you all the tips and tricks you need to really make your photos shine called Don't Say Cheese! written by family and children's photographer Rebecca Cooper.

Description from Ella:
In Ella's longest eBook to date, Rebecca Cooper is back with a new photography guide that's all about taking photos of kids. This 52-page downloadable eBook is packed with 247 tips, tricks, and ideas to help you capture your children's real smiles and authentic expressions—images that show who they really are (and go far beyond asking a child to just "say cheese").

Drawing on Rebecca's years of professional experience with little kids' photography, this eBook is divided into sections specifically for children, toddlers, babies, and newborns. With all this, plus the bonus Photo Games and Checklists section, you'll be capturing real smiles in no time at all—and having a great time with your kids along the way. Save the cheese for your pizza and try Rebecca's tips for photographing children instead!

Here's a few pages to give you an idea of all the wonderful ideas (and photo samples) inside:

There are five sections: Natural Newborn Photos, Beautiful Baby Photos, Terrific Toddler Photos, Authentic Kid Photos and Photo Games & Checklists.

Each section starts out with an amazing list of tips and tricks and is followed by an array of amazing sample photos. Each sample photo include a "How I Got the Shot" commentary from the author and specific camera specs.

At the end, there are four checklists of 25 shots to take of your kids...one for each season!

GIVEAWAY:
I have a free copy of Don't Say Cheese! to give away to one lucky reader. Simply leave a comment answering the following question by 5 p.m. (CST) on Thursday, September 8, 2011 and you'll be entered for a chance to win.

Do you have difficulty getting natural expressions out of your photo subjects? Do you have any tried and true technique for getting a 'keeper'?

Random.org will choose and I'll announce the winner on Friday.

GOOD LUCK!!

:GIVEAWAY WINNER: Budget-Friendly Scrapbooking from Creating Keepsakes

CONGRATS, DEBBIE J!

You are the lucky winner of a free copy of Budget-Friendly Scrapbooking from Creating Keepsakes. Please watch your inbox for further details on how to claim your prize...

Don't miss out on more great giveaways coming soon! If you haven't already, sign up for updates to the AMOM blog by email subscription or your favorite blog reader through the links in the left sidebar. Maybe Random.org will make your number lucky next time!

:GIVEAWAY: Budget-Friendly Scrapbooking from Creating Keepsakes

Creating Keepsakes has a fantastic new special edition available called Budget-Friendly Scrapbooking.

Anyone who has scrapbooked for any length of time, knows that it can quickly and easily become an expensive hobby.

However, it really doesn't have to be. With our present economy, it seems everyone is trying to find ways to stretch their dollars.

Budget-Friendly Scrapbooking will give you all kinds of tips for enjoying your hobby without breaking the bank!

If you'd like to take a look at what's inside, here's a sneak peek:

Open publication - Free publishing - More inexpensive

GIVEAWAY:
I have a free copy of Budget-Friendly Scrapbooking to give away to one lucky reader. Simply leave a comment answering the following question by 5 p.m. (CST) on Thursday, September 1, 2011 and you'll be entered for a chance to win.

Have your ever felt like you couldn't afford to scrapbook? If so, what did you do? Quit? Find budget-saving tricks of your own?

Random.org will choose and I'll announce the winner on Friday.

GOOD LUCK!!

:GIVEAWAY WINNER: How to be the Best Bubblewriter in the World Ever by Linda Scott

CONGRATS, SMFSPROUT!! 

You will soon know just how to be the best bubblewriter in the world...ever!  Please watch your inbox for further details on how to claim your prize.

How to be the Best Bubblewriter in the World Ever is available on Amazon.com for only $10.17 for any of you that would still like to create your creative (and bubbly) self!

Don't miss out on more great giveaways coming soon! If you haven't already, sign up for updates to the AMOM blog by email subscription or your favorite blog reader through the links in the left sidebar. Maybe Random.org will make your number lucky next time!

:REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: How to be the Best Bubblewriter in the World Ever by Linda Scott

When I was contacted by Debra at Laurence King Publishing to review How to be the Best Bubblewriter in the World Ever by Linda Scott, I must admit that I almost turned her down.

I always strive to make sure that the products I feature on the AMOM blog fit my topic, are something I feel that I can honestly review, and will be of interest to all of you.

Well, in this case, it was the second one that I was second-guessing. While I know that there are a lot of scrapbookers out there that really love exploring their creative side with hand lettering on their pages, I have to admit that I've never really dipped into this technique. And, honestly, I don't really see myself going that direction since my scrapbooking time is at a premium as it is.

Then, I reconsidered. I thought, "Kaitlin would ADORE this book!" She already loves using various forms of bubble writing on her home and school craft projects.

So, I replied asking if a few statements from her perspective would be acceptable. Debra replied that a kid's review would be great. After doing a little research, I soon discovered that the book is actually marketed primarily to kids, in fact.

When the book arrived, Kaitlin was simply excited that the package was for her! (Everyone loves to get a package, right!?)

We opened it up and her eyes immediately lit up! She was all, "And I can even write in it!?"

She hardly put it down for the first few days!! It was also an amazing car-ride occupier during the vacation we  took to the Black Hills shortly after receiving the book which included lots of car time.

Kaitlin said:

"I love that there are so many different styles to practice."
"Usually it is bad to write in a book. It's cool that I can practice the letters right in it."
"My favorite bubble alphabet is 'Rock On!'. It's so cool!"

In all, there are about 70 different bubble type faces featured in this book. Here's a couple examples:

As you can see, the author writes out the entire alphabet to illustrate and there is plenty of room to practice.

If you have a creative kid who love to explore their artistic side, How to be the Best Bubblewriter in the World Ever is a winner!

If you are a scrapbooker who likes to use hand letting on your layouts and/or try knew techniques to give your layouts a uniquely-you feel, this book is for you, too!

How to be the Best Bubblewriter in the World Ever is currently available at Amazon for only $10.17!

About the Author:
Linda Scott is a successful London-based illustrator and printed textile designer. She has produced work for some of the world's leading retailers, independent labels and designer boutiques. Her creative work has also featured in museum exhibitions, art shows and international publications. Currently, Linda is working with children's magazine Okido and a number of exciting animation projects.

SIMILAR TITLES:

The Scrapbooker's Handwriting Workshop: 
20 Unique Fonts to Practice and Play With
Crystal Jeffrey Rieger








GIVEAWAY:
I have a free copy of How to be the Best Bubblewriter in the World Ever to give away to one lucky reader. Simply answer the following question by 5 p.m. (CST) on Thursday, August 25th, 2011 and you'll be entered for a chance to win!

Have you ever used hand lettering (something beyond just your own handwriting for journaling) on a layout? If no, why not? If yes, is it a technique you enjoy to use often?

Random.org will choose and I'll announce the winner on Friday.

GOOD LUCK!

:REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Scrapbooking Your Single Years from Ella Publishing [CONTEST CLOSED]

I want to start of this review by saying that you should not let the title of this Ella Publishing eBook turn you away if you are not a single person.

Even if you are married or in a serious relationship, Scrapbooking Your Single Years is sure to offer you a wealth of new topics that deserve a spot in your scrapbooks. The subtitle of this book is "88 spectacular page ideas for current and former singles" and it certainly delivers.

In fact, I have been with the same guy (7 years dating and 11 years married) and I took away dozens of ideas from this book that I certainly hope to create layouts with.

Frankly, no matter how committed you may be to your significant other and/or children, everyone must be careful not to lose sight of the history and characteristics that make you who you are...outside of those relationships and commitments.

In the introduction, the author, Stephanie Baxter, shares her belief that although our family will certainly appreciate the moments and memories that we have captured about them in scrapbook pages, they would also certainly appreciate knowing more about the person that created them (perhaps even more so, in fact).

She presents the following questions your family might ask:
"What was she like when she was younger? What was her life like before she settled down, got married, and brought me into the world? Can I see similarities between us at the same age? What qualities or interests have I inherited from her?"

This book gives you all the ideas you'll need to answer all of these questions and more for everyone in your family.

In this Ella eBook, the author and 9 other extremely talented scrap artists share 22 layout samples to illustrate their examples of how to capture the essence of who you are and where you came from.

Each one comes with several other fun variations that you could use to stretch their ideas even further, encouraging quotes to inspire you to start documenting your single life as well as many mini-albums topics ideas.

Scrapbooking Your Single Years is certainly another great title from Ella Publishing!

GIVEAWAY:
I have one free download of Scrapbooking Your Single Years to give away. All you have to do to enter is answer the following question in a comment to this post by 5 p.m. (CST) on Thursday, August 4, 2011:

Do you find it easy or difficult to scrapbook about yourself? Why?

Random.org will choose and I will announce the winner on Friday!

GOOD LUCK!