Beth Nixon Blogging

That’s All Folks!

2009-07-09T11:22:00.002-04:00

After much thought . . .

After much internal debate . . .

I have decided to stop updating this blog. I could bore you with all the reasons, (privacy, time constraints, other projects) but I just don’t have the time to keep up with it any longer.

BUT, I will NOT be deleting the blog. The few tutorials I’ve done, the links to the freebies I’ve made, the odd knitting pattern I’ve put up . . . those will all stay right here.

Please, feel free to use those, for personal use, as much as you want. And pass a link to my blog to any new digi-scrappers as it’s always good to have some free things to get started!

I love the blogging community. I read so many blogs every day. I, however, won’t be contributing anymore. It just came down to a simple equation. Not enough hours in the day plus trying to limit the amount of information about my kids online.

Thank you all for your support. It’s meant more than I can say. Truly.

I’m still around.

Reading.

Thanks!

And I hope you all find joy and choose happy. Everyday.

Soothing An Itchy Cast

2009-06-30T09:46:00.002-04:00

The girl broke her arm.

She has a hot pink, waterproof, cast that she loves.

Except when it starts to itch. Then she starts to beg me to take it off.

And the more she thinks about it, the worse it gets. As I’ve never had a cast, I had no idea how to help her. And is there anything worse, as a mommy, then not being able to help your child when they are uncomfortable?

We tried all sorts of scratching items (knitting needles, spatulas, q-tips) but I know that’s a big no-no. But it’s the only thing I could think of. (I did find that a long ice tea spoon is blunt, smooth, and long enough to get some of the itches.

One of the only times it felt good was when we were in the pool. But we can’t be in the pool 24/7. So, I racked my brain and then remembered we had a bottle of Cetaphil in the bathroom. It’s a very mild soap that can be left on the skin. It can be used with water OR if you can’t take a regular bath, it can be wiped on and gently wiped off, leaving a residue on the skin. That residue helps keep the skin moist.

Hmm.

Two nights ago, after washing and rinsing her arm and rinsing more, I literally poured Cetaphil down her cast. I rinsed, then dumped some more.

She had a few complaints yesterday but NOTHING compared to the last few days.

Last night, I ~~poured~~ dumped more in there, lightly rinsed it through the cast, then poured in a ~~bit~~ lot more and added just enough water so that the Cetaphil would wash throughout her cast.

Not ONE complaint since last night.

I’m almost afraid to ask her.

In fact, I don’t. I’m assuming that if she isn’t complaining, it isn’t a problem!

I love the waterproof cast. The amount of water that goes through that thing should keep her arm clean. We’ve been at our pool, which is not chlorine but salt-water, almost every day. Then showers where I basically hook up the nozzle to her arm and run the water through the cast.

But nothing can stop the itchies.

Or can it?

Let’s hope we found a solution. Because listening to her cry and not being able to help . . . ugh. Worst feeling ever.

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Remember to click HERE, before July 8th, 2009, if you want a chance to win $250.

Spring Poncho

2009-05-19T07:35:00.001-04:00

This is the spring poncho I made my daughter.

She wears it almost everyday and I beam with pride whenever I see her because I LOVE it! For those interested, I used a version of the pattern by the Yarn Harlot found here.

My modifications are as follows:

I used a smaller needle and a cotton blend yarn. I changed the starts and stops of the rounds so that my color changes would be on the side and not in the middle of the yarn over stitches. Here goes . . .

Poncho for Girl (about size 6)
(based on pattern by the Yarn Harlot)

Size 6 circular needles
Cotton blend yarn (2+ balls of dark pink, 1 ball of light pink, 1 ball of green)
2 stitch markers

I'm not sure on gauge. I counted the stitches on another garment made with the same type yarn and needles and calculated that I needed about 90 to make sure it would fit over her head. I made it 92 so it would be in increments of 4 to fit the ribbing pattern at the neck.

Cast on 92 stitches.

Work in the Main Color (MC) in rib (K2, P2) for a total of 4 rows. (work flat)

Join in the round, making REALLY sure there is no twist, and continue in knit for 20 rows with the following pattern.

Round 5: K22, YO, (place marker), K1, YO, K45, YO, (place marker), K1, YO, K23
Round 6: Knit
Round 7: Knit to first marker, YO, slip marker, knit 1, yarn over, knit to next marker, YO, slip marker, K1, YO, knit to end of round.
Round 8: Knit

Repeat this pattern of rounds, a YO round followed by a knit round, for 20 rounds.
(You'll quickly see the YO patterns will leave the cute holes down the front and back. You will do a total of four YOs per odd row. One YO before each marker, a knit, followed by another YO. Then knit all even rounds)

Switch to CC1 (contrasting color 1, green in my example) and continue the YO round, knit round pattern for 5 rows.
(This is the most complicated part. Simply keeping track of your rounds and if it's a YO or knit round. I took a piece of paper and wrote out each row, if it was YO or straight knit, it's color, and then checked them off as I went around. ***See bottom for my list of rounds for color stripes.***)

Switch to CC2 (light pink my my example) and continue in pattern (YO round, knit round) for 10 rounds.

Back to color CC1 for 5 rounds in pattern.

Then back to the main color for 20 rounds.

Repeat the pattern of 20 in the main color, 5 in color CC1, 10 in color CC2, 5 in color CC1, back to 20 in the main color. Repeat until it reaches the desired length. I did about 90 rounds.

Then, in main color, do four rows of seed stitch. (This is optional. BUT, if you decide not to add the seed stitch, end on a knit round in the MC. It will curl up, but after you add the fringe, it will lay flat again.)
Seed Stitch Bottom:
Round 1: K1, P1 around
Round 2: P1, K1 around
Round 3: K1, P1 around
Round 4: P1, K1 around

Bind off.

Make fringe. I cut my yarn in about 12"-15" lengths, folded in half, and using a crochet hook pulled 2 lengths through every third or so stitch knotting at the top.

(I also knitted a short i-cord and put it in the back so she could hang it on a hook)

I also made a toddler poncho for a 1 year old. This is basically the same pattern but I found this version here. It has some fun details that works great with a solid color poncho and it's just perls! I did some adjusting to get the right size (about 10" in length at the front) and added a rib neckline at the top and shorter fringe. But same idea! This took about 1 ball of yarn and was really fun to make!

And if you are on Ravelry, look me up. I'm BethyKnitting! And if you are a knitter, go apply to join. The database of patterns is just amazing!

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Remember to click HERE, before July 8th, 2009, if you want a chance to win $250.

***list of rounds for color stripes***

Rounds 1-4: work in MC (main color) in rib pattern (K2, P2)
Rounds 5-24: work in MC following pattern of adding YOs at stitch markers on odd rounds and knit in even rounds as described above.

Rounds 25-29: work in CC1 (contrasting color 1, light green in my example)
25: YO round
26: knit round
27: YO round
28: knit round
29: YO round

Rounds 30-39: work in CC2 (contrasting color 2, light pink in my example)
30: knit round
31: YO round
32: knit round
33: YO round
34: knit round
35: YO round
36: knit round
37: YO round
38: knit round
39: YO round

Rounds 40-44: work in CC1 (contrasting color 1, light green in my example)
40: knit round
41: YO round
42: knit round
43: YO round
44: knit round

Rounds 55-74: Switch back to MC and knit pattern of YO and knit rows for 20 rounds. (YO on odd rounds, knit on even rounds)

Repeat stripes in rounds of 20 rounds in MC, 5 rounds in CC1, 10 rounds in CC2, 5 rounds in CC1 until you reach desired length. I did 20 in MC, one set of contrasting colors, 20 in MC, a second set in contrasting color stripes, then ended with about 5-10 rows in MC before starting the seed stitches.

End in MC. You do not need to do the seed stitch at bottom. But I think it adds a nice finishing edge. But do end on a knit round, not a yarn over round, if you decide to skip the seed stitch at the bottom. If you don't do the seed stitch for the bottom four rows, it will curl up, but once you add the fringe, it will lay flat.

Summer Word Art FREEBIE!

2009-04-30T09:27:00.001-04:00

First, go check out this post.

Do it before July 8th, 2009.

That's only if you'd like a chance at winning a $250 gift card.

Otherwise, just ignore it.

==========

Ok, now that you've got that out of your system, let's go onto a freebie!

We just had our first heat wave. 95 degree weather in April. For three days we sweltered. And sweated. It was too hot too sleep. Too hot to cook.

But, let me tell you . . . there is NOTHING better than sucking on a popsicle and dipping your toes in the kiddie pool during the worst heat of the day!

And it inspired me to make these. Six pieces of word art and a grassy green background.

Click HERE to download them.

Let me know if you like 'em or just leave a comment saying hello!

Then let's sit back and dream of beautiful summer days!

Girl's Knit Tank Top Pattern

2009-04-18T20:07:00.001-04:00

I had a couple requests for the pattern that I used to make this:

So, here it is! This pattern is knitted in the round. Except for first four rounds. Then it is split into flat knitting at the armhole. The back and the front are the same. Except the front is where I worked the straps. I then grafted the straps to the back. You can also bind off and seam. Explained below!

Girl's Knit Tank Top
(approximately size 6)

Materials:
Cotton Blend Yarn (3 balls)
(I used eco-cotton, 75% cotton, 25% acrylic)
Size 6 circular needles
Stitch Holders

Sorry, no gauge. I had her try it on every 10-20 rounds to make sure it was heading in the right direction though!

Cast on 180 stitches.
Knit first four rounds flat. (Or, if you want, you can do this in a seed stitch, instead of knitting, to mimic the pattern in the bodice. There is a note below on seed stitch.)

*Tip. Do not try to join the first round. It's virtually impossible to cast on 180 stitches and start knitting in the round, on circular needles, and NOT have twisted stitches. Believe me. I would do 8-10 rows before realizing how twisted things were and would have to rip it all out and try again. More than once. Then I found the tip to knit the first four rounds flat. That gives the piece enough weight so you can, carefully, check that nothing is twisted before joining! You will have to later seam up those four rows but that is very easy compared to ripping things out three times!

After row 4, join in the round and knit each round until piece measures 10 inches or so. (rows 4-60)

Shape Yoke
*k1, K2tog* repeat around (120 stitches)
*k18, K2tog* repeat around (114 stitches)

Note: in the following row, I placed markers every 20 stitches. (the last section had 14 stitches) It just helped me keep count when doing this series of stitches. I also painted the marker that marked the end of my round pink with nail polish so it would be obvious when I had made the round. This isn't necessary, but I found it helped.

Continue knitting in a seed stitch (knit one, perl one; next round perl one, knit one) until yoke is about 2.5 inches or so. (About 20 rows.)

(For those that don't know the seed stitch, it's a pattern of knit one, perl one. Then in the next row or round, you do the opposite. So perls are on top of knit and knits are on top of perls. It gives the pattern you see here at the top of the tank. The top is seed, the bottom is the knitting in the round that is stockinette stitch.)

Shape Armhole
Bind off first 8 stitches and continue in seed for 49 stitches. Place those 49 stitches on a holder or a scrap of yarn.

Bind off next 8 stitches and knit 49 stitches in seed.

Now, working flat in seed. (see note below) Decrease 1 stitch at the end of row. 6 times. (37 stitches)

(Note: when you switch to flat, instead of in the round, pay attention to be sure you have the opposite stitch above each stitch. It's easy to see once you have the pattern going, so don't worry!)

Work until yoke measures 4.5 inches or so. (14 more rows)

Shape Neck.
Knit 6 in seed and slip to a holder. This will be one of the straps.
Bind off 25.
Knit last 6 stitches, in seed. Work in seed stitch on 6 stitches for tie for about 7" (63 rows).

Before ending, this is a good point, to try on your model. See if the straps seem long enough. The back will come up the same amount as the front. If it looks good, Bind off. Unless you are feeling brave enough to try the kitchner stitch then slip onto holder.

Pick up other 6 and knit on those 6 stitches for 63 rows. Bind off or, again, slip on holder if you are feeling brave.

Finish Back
Pick up back 49 stitches.
Working flat just like the front.
Knit in seed stitch, decreasing 1 stitch at the end of each row 6 times. (37 stitches)

Work until yoke measures 4.5 inches or so. (14 rows)

Bind off all stitches unless you are feeling brave. Then, seed stitch first 6 stitches and slip on holder. Bind off middle 25. Seed stitch last 6 and slip to holder.

If you bound off straps, sew straps from front to back. If you left the stitches live, graft 6 stitches from front to their corresponding side on the back. (I won't even attempt to explain this stitch. I watched this video by the Knit Witch on youtube and followed along with her step by step!)

Weave in loose ends and seam up those first four rows.

Put on model and ask her to twirl!

Facebook Privacy Settings {how-to}

2009-03-10T07:49:00.001-04:00

I love Facebook.

It took me a while to figure it out but once I started adding friends and family and regularly updating, it became fun. And a really great way to connect with people I, unfortunately, lost touch with over the years.

But as I'm not a college student any more, some of the settings befuddled me for a while. Then I started reading about privacy settings and such. I found an out-of-date article on how to update the privacy settings and after playing around a bit, got them figured out.

And I thought I'd share them. Because, Facebook uses your real name. That is the advantage of it. That lets people find you.

But sometimes there are things you really don't want to share with the rest of the world. I'm not overly afraid of internet predators but I do believe in being cautious. That means I may list the area of the country I live in, but I don't list the town. And I don't list the birthdays or names of children. (And if you are a professional, then you do want to limit what pictures your boss can see of your recent drunken bbq!)

(And, when you have a moment, read this post to see more about an incident I had with posting my pictures of my kids online and watch this video.)

Ok, ok.

You use Facebook and you want to be a little more cautious with the information you are putting out there.

This is some basic information on how to do that. (This is written in March 2009. If Facebook changes their interface, I'll try to come back and update images, etc.)

Here I am.

The very first thing to do is click on the Settings over on the right top. And click on Account Settings.

Then click on Password and change that IF it's the same as your email. If you are like most people, you use the same password for a lot of things. (and actually this is a good tip for anyone, change your email password to something unique and different. If someone gets into your Facebook account, or any account, then can then easily get into your email and do some real damage without you ever noticing it. )

Once you click on settings, you'll come to this screen and click on password. So, change this password. (And change your email to something different.)

After you've done that, while you are still under My Account, (I didn't include directions for that as it's pretty standard) go to the next tab, Networks.

By default, Facebook includes you in a geographic network near where you live. I live by a big city. I actually don't want everyone that lives around here able to see my information by default.

Just opt out of any networks. (Or add them here if you do want to be included. But a little bit further down, I'm going to touch on groups and that way you can limit if your entire network can see everything you post.)

Still under My Account, now click on over to the Notifications tab. This one is pretty important. This shows you when you will be notified of certain activities. The important things? Under Photos. Be sure to click ON if someone tags you in a photo. Same with video. ("Tags me in a photo")

That way you will be alerted if a friend has posted a photo and tagged you in it. Believe me, you want this.

First, it's fun to see photos of yourself.

Unless you are, let's say a teacher. And the photo is from an old college party where you were showing off how well you could do shots of tequila.

You may want to un-tag yourself and ask your friend to either delete the picture or restrict privacy or just leave your name off it. Whatever you are comfortable with.

Because here's something I didn't know. The DEFAULT setting photos is to allow EVERYONE to see them. So if your friend has the default setting on, everyone will see you doing those shots of tequila!

(And, again, I'll talk about groups in a minute. That will tell you how you CAN post pictures of yourself in those tequila situations and limit the visibility to only certain friends and not everyone!)

I did tag a friend in a photo that she then untagged. (and yes, you can do that! If you don't want to be tagged, you'll see an option, below right on the photo, to un-tag yourself. ) It was my mistake and I should've known better as she doesn't post pictures of herself or her family online. I have since deleted the picture.

Ok, next is Privacy Settings. Up on the upper right, click Settings and then choose Privacy Settings.

First, choose Profile. This is where you can choose what people can see what. Your options are "Friends of Friends", "Only Friends" and for some of them "Customize."

I've chosen Only Friends for most of them. Besides profile. I figure if it's a friend of a friend, it may help them determine if they really know me!

And if you aren't sure what something is, see that little question mark to the right? Click on it and a short definition will appear.

Stay under privacy, but now click on the Contact Information tag. Choose which settings make you comfortable. I actually don't want most people to see my information. Although some can be changed to No One. Limiting access completely! Just choose what makes you comfortable.

Ok, next is understanding Friend Lists and putting people in groups.

First, why would you even want to put people in groups? Well, let's say you found a really great picture of you and your best friends from high school. You could set it so only your high school friends could see it. Maybe it's a picture you don't really want your boss or the other moms from play group to see.

It's a great option to have.

First, on the top bar, click on friends. You'll see your friends with their latest status updates. (just a note, on my examples here, I've whited out names so it may look just a little weird.)

On the left, you'll see Friend Lists.

Clicking on All Friends, give you a list with all your friends.

I have several groups set up. Below, I clicked on Family. That shows everyone on Facebook that is in my extended family.

I've also got lists for high school, college, and parent's from the kids school.

So, here's how to create your own group.

Below the Friend Lists, you'll see a blue bar that says "Make a New List."

Click on that and choose a name! Make it simple and self explanatory. (I named this one "Test" for this example.)

Next, you'll have an option to add people to your new group. You can do it one by one, or click on the link for Select Multiple Friends.

Then just click on anyone that you want to be in that group! (again, my list below looks a little odd because I've whited out all names, etc. You would have names next to each of your little thumbnail pictures!)

Then click Save List!

That's it. You've just created a group.

Ok, now where do you use this? There are several ways but the most important, to me, is photos. (I think you can edit just about everything to certain groups and they would follow these same general guidelines.)

Go to Your Photos. There you will see all your albums. And as the default setting is to allow your photos to be seen by EVERYONE, if you want a different setting, you have to make the change to EACH album.

Here I'm going to change the settings to my album, "the 1980s!"

Click on "Edit Album."

That brings up this set of tabs. Click on "Edit Info."

This brings up the place to change the Album Name, the album Description, and the Privacy for that particular album.

Click the drop down for Privacy. I usually pick "Only Friends." For most of my pictures, if you are my friend on Facebook, I'm ok with you seeing pictures. (although I still don't list my kids names or specific locations (like schools or cities) on my pictures)

Ok, let's say you have a picture of a wild college party that you really don't want anyone in your family to see but you know your college friends would love to see it.

Click "Customize . . . " on that drop down box above.

This is what will come up. And now you can customize it using those groups you just created! You can see your options below.

Everyone on Facebook, Friends of Friends, Only Friends, Some Friends, Only Me, and even the option to block only a certain few people . . . like your boss!

For this example, I'm choosing Some Friends.

And when the box comes up, I can type individual friends names OR I can just type in the name of the Friend List I just created!

Here I typing in Test, the new group I created for this example.

And there you go! Click Okay and now these pictures will ONLY be visible to that group of people!

Be sure to do this to each individual photo album you have. Change the settings from Everyone on Facebook to something that you feel comfortable with.

Hopefully that will give you enough information to take a look at your settings, and change things to where you are happy with what people are seeing and make sure that only those that you want to see things, will.

And a quick note to those of you with young teenagers. These settings are not a secret. They will know about them WAY before you do. So, if you have a younger teenager, you may want to ask them to show you their privacy settings so you will know what is and isn't going on with them. Because even if they are your friend, they can very easily block you from seeing pictures and other information. That discussion is best left between you and your child but now you have the information to approach them if you think it's necessary.

Confessions {Plus Glow Freebie}

2009-03-02T07:42:00.002-05:00

{edited to include freebie info only}

Now, a freebie.

I posted a layout the other day. My first layout in weeks and weeks. I found a few tutorials at Vunky Search and I couldn't resist playing. A lot of the stuff there was WAY out of what I could figure out. But I read a bunch of them and came up with the glow set of squiggly lines.

Then I threw in some glowing love and a basic gradient background just for fun.

And now, I'm giving them away. Just cool lines to add to a digital scrapbook layout or any photo!

If you like 'em, leave me a comment, here on the bog, and let me know if you want more! They were fun to make (although a tad tedious) and if enough people are interested, I'll put together another set. Something with flowers and little leaves and hearts, I think . . . so . . . let me know!

Click to DOWNLOAD the Glow set of lines!

The Ultimate Computer User Accessory! {Pattern Below}

2009-01-01T10:33:00.001-05:00

If you use a computer . . . and it gets cold where you live . . . then you know all about mouse hand. That ice cold hand that's using the computer mouse.

And if you get "mouse hand" then you need fingerless gloves or arm warmers!
(and if you're Meg, don't look as this is what will be mailed to you in a few days!)

I made one for me a few days ago.

Since then I've revised the pattern and added some fun funky stripes for Meg.

Now, you can buy arm warmers or fingerless gloves. Some of my favorite can be found at sockdreams.com. But, if you are a knitter and want to know my pattern, then I've put together mine below. I found the basic pattern online by googling "knit arm warmers" but I revised it to fit my knitting preferences and the stripe I wanted.

(and note, I'm not an expert knitter. And I have my quirks. Such as I despise the first row after casting on. Despise. And I really only like to perl. So, I perl the first row after casting on. Regardless of what is called for in the pattern! And I have a favorite set of knitting needles. Size 7. If at all possible, I tweak patterns to fit my size needles!)

Ice Cold Mouse Hand Hand Warmers by Beth
(original pattern modified from this one I found online)

Supplies:

Two colors of yarn (I used basic acrylic as I wanted something sturdy and washable. There's prettier yarns out there but for this, I wanted something sturdy, washable, AND pretty!)
Size 7 knitting needles
Not needed but helpful: stitch markers, row counter, yarn needle

(two notes: Cast on and bind off loosely so cuffs will be a bit stretchy. When switching colors leave a good 8 inches or so for seaming at the end.)

Cast on 38 stitches, loosely, of color #1.

Perl (or knit) first row across.
(you can start right in the rib stitch as described below, this is just my preference)

Work in knit 1, perl 1 rib for about two inches.
(I did 10 rows of rib.)

Switch to color #2 and begin Stockinette stitch (knit 1 row, perl 1 row). Complete 4 rows in color #2.

Switch back to color #1. Continue Stockinette stitch in color #1 for 6 rows.

Switch to color #2. Stockinette stitch for 4 rows.

Switch to color #1. Stockinette stitch for 8 rows.

Now we start something a bit more exciting!

Switch to color #2. Continue the Stockinette stitch for 2 more rows.

On the next row, still in color #2, knit 2 stitches. In the next stitch, increase 1 stitch, then slip the stitch marker on your needle. (A safety pin would work as well but a stitch marker is easy AND fun!) Continue to knit. Three stitches before the end of the row, slip on your stitch marker. In the next stitch, increase one stitch then knit to end of row. You should know have 40 stitches on your needle.

Perl back.

(If you are doing the increases correctly, you'll see the stitch markers move in from the end. They should each move in towards the middle the same amount each time you knit a row. Just remember to increase BEFORE the first marker and increase AFTER the second marker.)

Switch to color #1.

Knit to before stitch marker. On the stitch before the marker, increase one stitch. Knit to next marker. On the first stitch after the marker, increase one stitch. (You should know have 42 stitches on your needle.)

Perl back.

Continue the last 2 steps for 2 more sets of rows, increasing on the knit, perling back. After these 4 rows you should have 46 stitches on your needle.

(This is where that row counter comes in handy but a piece of paper and pencil works just as well!)

So, you have now knitted a total of 6 rows in color #1.

Switch to color #2. Knit to before stitch marker. On the stitch before the marker, increase one stitch. Knit to next marker. On the first stitch after the marker, increase.

Perl back.

Repeat, once, those last two steps in that same color #2. You should have a total of 50 stitches on your needle.

Bind off in knit, the first 8 stitches. (You should bind off to your first stitch marker.)

Knit the remainder of the row.

Bind off in perl, the first 8 stitches. (You should bind off to your first stitch marker.)

Perl the remainder of the row.

You should now have 34 stitches on your needle.

Switch back to color #1. (last switch!!) Work in rib (knit 1 stitch, purl 1 stitch) for the next 8 rows.

Bind off, loosely, in rib pattern.

The knitting is done!

To finish, put together in reverse. Take those loose ends and, with a yarn needle, starting at the top (the 8 rows you just finished) seam together the top ribs down the side.

You'll then come to the thumb hole. Leave that open.

Skip down to the end of those 8 stitches you bound off and start seaming down. I switched colors on the way down, depending on the stripe color to match using those loose ends from switching colors. It's not necessary but is a nicer finish.

End with the bottom rib, leaving the bottom open to slip your hand in!

Weave in all other loose ends and snip loose ends.

Repeat for second glove. I switched the colors so they are opposite matches!

Wear.

Keep warm.

Smile.

Keep "mouse-ing!"

And for those of you that are instruction impaired, like me, here's the picture I drew of the row counts and color switches!

First 10 rows (plus 1 because of my inability to do anything but perl after casting on) is a rib pattern (knit 1 stitch, perl 1 stitch). Then the stockinette stitch for the next 36 rows (knit 1 row, perl 1 row) switching colors as indicated and increasing rows on knits as indicated. Then bind off first 8 stitches of next 2 rows as described above. Then rib pattern for the top.

And if you make one, let me see it!! I'm hoping to make one more set but I need to sort through my yarn to see what colors I have!

Bethy's Tutorials: Scalloped Edge Frame

2008-11-13T20:30:00.001-05:00

I had a request on how to make a scalloped edge frame. So, here's my interpretation of how to do it in Photoshop CS2.

First thing to remember, there are LOTS of ways to get the same result. You may discover a better way but if you have no idea how to start, this may get you out there playing!

This is the final result and, yes, this will be a freebie at the end!

Ok, the first thing I do is draw out the frame size I want with a path. I choose the rectangle tool.

And make sure that Paths is selected.

Then I draw out the size I want.

The next step is to fill in the shape. I create a new Layer. I chose a creamy color. And then hit the fill path with foreground color option.

Viola. A filled square.

The next step is to add the edge. First, I make sure that path I just created is still selected by clicking on it.

I choose the brush size I want. For this one I chose a round brush at about 78 pixels and then changed the spacing so the dots are touching and pretty close.

I create a new layer and then choose Stroke path with brush.

Ok, now I have my shape with the bumpy edge.

Then, with my path still selected, I go to Edit > Transform > Path and I typed in about 95% for the reduction.

The next step is to "Load path as a selection"

Click on the layer with the filled square. Layer 1 in my example. And hit delete. And you have your basic frame!

If I'm happy with it, I go ahead and merge the layers. You merge by selecting (holding the shift key) what ever layers you want to merge into one. For my example, Layers 1 and 2.

Hit Control E and the two layers are now one!

I did some fidgeting and futzing and shadow work to put together a basic scalloped edge frame that has a bit of curl on the edges. You can download it HERE!

Enjoy! And if you have any ideas for more tutorials, let me know here!

Blog Statistics and Internet Privacy/Safety

2008-10-22T11:14:00.001-04:00

After this post I wrote about my daughter's picture being found on my blog and posted alongside rather inappropriate pictures, I got a few comments and emails about how I track visitors to my blog.

I use two services. The first one, and the one I use the most is called BlogPatrol. The reason I like BlogPatrol is because it's live. The statistics are tracked in real time. I can follow what pages are being looked at and if a freebie is getting noticed right away.

After signing up, you choose a counter to display on your blog page. I chose the invisible one which is just a little icon at the bottom right side of my blog. Just that little blue square.

And with that, I can see the information in the graph below. This was this morning. Before I posted. It shows me I've had about 20 visitors and with the current rate of traffic, I can expect just shy of 50 of visitors for the day. It also shows me the last few days. And it keeps about a month's work of current traffic. Nothing long term. It's more of an instant gratification type of info!

It also shows me the top 10 pages for the week and the last 10 viewed.

And below is where I found the site that disturbed me so much. Here I see my top referrers for the week. If I post a freebie, it's usually blogs such as digifree or ikeagoddess or the3chickens. If I don't, it's usually people who have me bookmarked or in a reader or such.

The next part is the last 10 referrers. That's an instant snapshot. And that's where I had found the offending site the other night.

But, what if I hadn't checked right then and it wasn't showing? Well, I also use Google Analytics. It's a great site. LOTS and LOTS of information. Lots I don't understand how to even interpret. It collates the data and updates once every 24 hours. So, although the information is great, for an instant gratification girl like me, I usually check BlogPatrol every day and Google Analytics every few days.

Google Analytics is super clean with fun info. PLUS it keeps the information long term. Not just a few weeks like BlogPatrol but I can scroll back to when I first started using them to compare stats over time. This is the home page. Just hits and page views.

This is one of the reports on referrals. It's very detailed AND it keeps an ongoing record of all sites that have referred me. I found the "bad" site had sent six hits to my blog. Now, a few of those were mine as I double-checked things had been deleted. But it also gives me an overall idea of how people are finding my blog.

And this is just for fun. I love looking at this one. Stats for all over the world. Even 15 hits from Sweden! How cool is that?

The two sites don't always agree with their numbers but they are usually close enough to satisfy me. And I can get a good look at who is looking at my blog.

And finally I'm going to leave you with a video that Amy left me with a link in her comment. I'm still going to post pictures. Because would this post be as fun without photos? But I'm going to think twice about what pictures I post, what words I use, and keep names and locations off.

What are you doing to keep yourself safe?

Sick to My Stomach

2008-10-20T07:58:00.001-04:00

This isn't a pleasant post. It's actually quite disturbing.

And I debated if I should post it as it may worry people. But, I do know that I would want to know.

I can be a bit wordy so hang in there with me . . .

When my son started kindergarten I had a sudden revelation that I had been too fast and loose with his privacy. So I went on a deleting binge. I deleted all of my digi-scrap layouts that mentioned names. I combed through my blog to delete all references to the kids names. I've also kept a web site for my family since I was pregnant with my son. I deleted it off the internet. I switched to a blog format and have kept all names off of it. We will eventually be making our family site private, by invitation only.

This need for privacy wasn't driven by fear of internet predators but rather by a desire to respect my son's privacy. He's in elementary school now. As he gets older it's not fair that every child in his class could have instant access to his baby pictures! But, in the back of my head, I also realized that after so many years online, that there was just too much information out there and I needed to streamline things.

Done.

I felt good.

Ok, I track statistics on this blog. For no other reason than curiosity. I like to see what pages get hit. I like to see where my visitors come from. I like to see which sites or blogs are referring people to me. If only so I can go over and visit them. This weekend there was a new referrer. And if I don't recognize it, and since I had a few minutes, I clicked to see who it is.

It was from Japan. And it was a list of photos. As I wasn't fully paying attention, I just thought cool . . . another digi-freebie collaborator site has picked up my blog. Heck, I have ones from France and Russia and South America so it didn't really hit me at first. They all post previews of my digi-scrap freebies and link to my blog. I love these people. They drive a lot of traffic to my site and keep my freebies downloading.

But this one was different. I saw a digi-scrap layout here and there but mostly just pictures of girls and even a cute little blue dress. Then I noticed a word in the top navigation that I simply don't associate with scrapbook. It was a word you only hear in a medical setting or in porn.

Alarmed, I scrolled some more. And mixed in with the innocuous pictures of little girls was porn.

Ugly stuff.

I actually don't have a problem with porn. Adult porn. Do what you want. Leave me out of it, but it's none of my business. But start mixing pictures of little girls?? It made me physically sick to look at.

But where did they find a link to *my* blog in this mess?? I scrolled and scrolled. Eventually I had to look at the source code and I found it.

It was a layout I did a while back of my daughter and a friend's daughter. Completely innocent. Nothing sexual in it at all. Sweet.

Both the thumbnail-sized layout and the words from my blog were linked. I clicked on them both. The layout has long been deleted from my digi-scrap gallery. It came up page missing. The only thing anyone could see was the tiny thumbnail of the layout. If you click on the words, it comes up to the blog post I did with that layout. I've now deleted that post in my blog. So, when they click on the words, it comes up gone as well.

So, mine is gone. Just empty pages but these people are out there. Scrape-ing our photos. Our layouts. Our family web sites. Our blogs. Using our pictures in a way we can't even imagine.

I called the mom of the friend mentioned in my layout. We're of the same mind. There isn't any harm done. Everything has been deleted and it's all so small that nothing can be read.

But it's still wrong.

Oh so wrong.

And what are we to do? Hide in fear? Keep everything off the internet. Even though my family is scattered across the country and they enjoy the pictures and stories I post?

I have little fear from this for my daughter's safety. But I still feel violated.

I'm going to continue to take safety precautions. I will continue to NOT post names. Or locations. Or school names. I won't post anything provocative in any way to an average person. I've talked to my kids about internet safety. And about strangers. And I will continue to track how people are finding my blog.

But I don't think I'm going to take everything down.

I don't think. That would be letting them win.

But seeing my sweet daughter amongst pictures of porn?

Oh man.

It does make me consider it.

Finally, I do NOT want to post the link to the site. I don't want them to see traffic coming from my blog to them. I don't want to give them any extra traffic. But if any of you are worried, I'm going to spell it out here using the words dot and slash instead of the actual symbols. You'll have to type it in for yourselves. And be warned. It does contain porn. Don't have the kids around when you open it up.

It's www dot netart dot jp slash onanie slash little%20girls

It's disturbing. It's sick.

And it makes me more aware of the safety precautions I can make and will continue to make. If you post pictures or layouts on a blog or digi-scrap web site of your family, keep in mind what sort of people are out there. And forward this information or a link to this post to anyone that posts pictures or layouts on line as well.

We should all be aware of what's out there.

And yes, I know I can email and fight this. But, I'm sure, there are 1,000s more sites just like this one. And we aren't going to be able to stop them all. All we can do is make sure we are comfortable with what we post and we have done all we can to protect ourselves and our loved ones from this sort of insanity.

edited to add: by request, here's a post on how I track the traffic to my blog.

Bethy's Tutorial: Text on a Path (using Photoshop)

2008-10-15T09:23:00.001-04:00

Want to know how to get your text to go around your photo or follow a shape? Here's a quick, down and dirty, tutorial to get you comfortable with it and ready to experiment with all sorts of things!

I use Photoshop CS2. All screenshots are from that. I'm not sure how to do things in other programs but this may give you a place to start playing!

Let's get started. This is the start of my layout. Just a quirky picture of my daughter, using my Precious page kit available, for free, right here in the freebie section!

First thing we want to do is click on the Custom Shape Tool to get started. What I'm going to do is draw a square around the photo and add text.

I'm going to choose the Rectangle Tool.

And make sure that box "Paths" is clicked.

Ok, I'm ready to go!

The next step is to draw the path around my photo.
(I want a square so I hold the shift key down while I click and drag out the path. That keeps it square.)

The next step is to click on the Text Tool.

And here's the tricky part. I then want to place my cursor on the text path. I want it to look just like it does below. The cursor with the wavy line through the middle. (I'll show you below another way to work with text on a path.)

When I get that line, I just start typing! I chose one of my favorite fonts, violation, to reflect the attitude she's giving me. You can type whatever you want, but I just chose to repeat the word over and over.

As you can see above, the word, attitude, is breaking a bit funny over the top left corner. It bugs me. I don't care as much about the bottom, but I like the top corners to look clean. So, I highlight the text. Then I'll start to futz with it (and I believe futz is the technical term).

I'm going to futz with the kerning. With the text highlighted, I open the character tool bar and go the kerning box. That's the little AV with the horizontal arrow. Kerning is the spacing between the characters.

I finally got something I liked where the top corners look ok to me. Not perfect. But they aren't bugging me anymore!

This is what I got.

I'm going to add an inner border of a dotted line. And I'll show you a little trick to get that close to perfect.

First, I repeat the steps above to draw out a square box path a bit smaller than my text. I also add a new layer.

Then I choose a small round brush and set the spacing to something that looks like it'll work for me.

Then I go over to my paths toolbar and click on stroke path with brush. (Be sure you are on your new layer!)

And of course, I didn't get a good screen shot of it BUT, the dots were overlapping in the upper corner. Two of them were all squished together and it didn't look good at all. So, I simply erased the offending dots.

Then, I simply took my brush, same settings as when I stroked the path, and eye-balled one to fit in nicely.

This is an especially helpful technique when drawing a curvy path of beads. There is always a place on the curvy path where the dots get too squished and even touch. Which does NOT look good when you add the effects to make them beads. Simply erase the dots that aren't right and eyeball one into the right place.

Ok, this is getting to be quite a long tutorial but I want to show you one more thing if you are new to paths and text.

Let's say you are drawing out a circle. You want the text to follow along the outside of the circle. This is what you want when you click on Text and hover your curser on the path. Just like I mentioned earlier, the cursor with the wavy line through the middle.

Click and type. That's going to give you this. The words along the outside of the circle.

If your cursor looks like this, with a small dotted circle and on the inside of your shape like this.

You'll get this when you click and type. Your text inside of the shape.

Two very different effects!! But think of the possibilities! Arrows, circles, squares . . . there are lots of pre-set shapes and you can use any of them and have the text either go along the outside or fill up the inside.

And, of course, you can draw your own shapes as well! But I think that might be another tutorial!

I hope you learned a bit about paths and text and are ready to play and experiment and learn some more!!

If you do create something with this tutorial (or even of my tutorials or freebies) please link me up to your blog or layout so I can see it!!

Now, go, create . . . have fun!!

I Don't Iron {plus the Precious FREEBIE!}

2008-10-08T14:24:00.002-04:00

{edited to include freebie info only}

Shall we move on to a new freebie??

It was inspired by a picture of my new nephew. And he is precious, hence the name of the new kit! It has five backgrounds, glitter stars (both small and big), cloth stars, small hanging tag, stitching, square mat, flower, beaded wire, great word art, and more!! And great colors that will showcase all sorts of memories in a beautiful way!

I sure hope you all enjoy it because I had a lot of fun making it!!

You can DOWNLOAD IT HERE!

Enjoy.

And if you use it to post online, credit:
Precious page kit by Beth Nixon available on her blog
(and list my blog address if you're allowed: http://bethnixon.blogspot.com)

Thanks and have a great day!

(And I've added a secure paypal donate button to my blog over there on the right. As most of you, every spare dollar counts anymore. If you've enjoyed my designs or tutorials and have an extra dollar or two, I'd appreciate it! But I appreciate your comments on my blog even more!!)

Your Favorite Blog? {Plus Frame It Up FREEBIE!}

2008-09-25T08:23:00.002-04:00

I just went through a blog purge. I realized that some of my blogs I was merely glancing at. And in an attempt to optimize my computer time, I deleted a few from my reader. But I do have my favorites. My favorites, in no particular order are:

The Creative Junkie by Andrea. She never fails to make me laugh with her AND at her AND at myself!
Then there's Photoshop Disasters. Truly a blog that makes me shake my head and laugh out loud!
And, of course, anyone who reads blogs knows about The Pioneer Woman! I love her writing style plus she has more than awesome give a ways!!
I'm also enjoying Creative Organizing. What great tips! It's where I found out about the SHED book I mentioned a few posts below.
Then there's Matt Logelin's blog, matt, liz, and madeline. You'll cry and laugh and totally admire his photography skills!
And how about Ikea Goddess? Now, there's some fantastic freebies!!
Last, there's Jessica Sprague's blog. It always makes me think and inspires.

So . . . what is YOUR favorite blog?? Link me up!! Some of my favorites I found from friends so I want to know what you love to read!! Give me a few so I can fill up those few minutes of computer time I have every day!

Ok, on to the freebie.

I did three sets of overlays/frames for 4"x6" photos. (you can find the Print It NOW series in the freebie section) The point of those frames was to make it SUPER easy to just print!! To get those photos OFF your computer and printed up while still adding a creative touch.

Then I did two sets of 12"x12" overlays. (again, check out In A Snap 1 and 2 in the freebie section!) Those were super fun to make and seem to be popular with you all.

SO, the next size? 10"x8". I'm not waiting to scrap a picture to perfection. I'm just throwing on one of my overlays and getting it up on the wall. NOW.

'Cause it makes me smile every time I see it. And I don't want it hidden on my computer but hanging on my wall. 'Cause I need to smile more often!

Here the are. Set 1 of Frame It Up. Which means, hopefully, set 2 will come soon!

It has six 10"x8" overlays. They can also be re-sized to smaller rectangular sizes!
Download them HERE.

If you use them to post online, credit:
Frame It Up 1 by Beth Nixon, available on her blog
(and post my blog address if allowed: http://bethnixon.blogspot.com)

And if you like 'em, leave me a comment here!! The more comments I get, the more I know you all like them!

Enjoy!

And I'm looking forward to your favorite blogs!

A New Location {and another In A Snap FREEBIE!!}

2008-09-22T08:26:00.002-04:00

{edited to include freebie info only}

Enough about me. I've been hard at work with another set of overlays as you all seemed to like the last set so much! (You can find the first set, and all my freebies, right here!)

Here's the link to DOWNLOAD IT! Just like the first set, you can use them as is (both black and white are included), add a shadow for a sticker effect, or re-size to any square size smaller than 12" x 12"! Lots of ways to get creative!

Enjoy them. And, please, leave a comment if you like them and want more. Or, if you would like other sizes. (like the 10"x8" set I'm working on now!) If you use these, link me up to your layout! I'd love to see how you all use them.

If you use the overlays, credit:
In A Snap 2 by Beth Nixon, available on her blog
(and put my blog address if allowed: http://bethnixon.blogspot.com)

And that cute little boy smiling in the preview?? You can read about that smiling ending right here!

In A Snap FREEBIE!

2008-09-16T07:21:00.002-04:00

I have a new freebie for ya all!

It's based on my Print It Now 4"x6" frames (see 'em in the freebie section) but, instead, in a 12"x12" overlay size! Super fun and super easy to use! Just plop them on your layout, add picture, text . . . viola, In A Snap, you are done! (yeah, I'm not all that super creative in my naming lately!)

And they are just below for you to download.

Here's a peek at the freebie.

Here's the link to DOWNLOAD IT! You can use them as is (both black and white are included), add a shadow for a sticker effect, or re-size to any square size smaller than 12" x 12"! Lots of ways to get creative. And super easy too!

If you use the overlays, credit:
In A Snap 1 by Beth Nixon, available on her blog
(and put my blog address if allowed: http://bethnixon.blogspot.com)

Thanks! And have a great day!

Organize, Be GREEN, and a FREEBIE {Summer's End}

2008-08-29T22:59:00.002-04:00

{edited to list freebie info only}

Ok . . . last but certainly not least . . . a NEW freebie!! It's a pack of ten beautifully digital backgrounds! I started with four and then just kept going! I certainly hope you all enjoy them!! Leave me a comment if you pick 'em up and a link if you scrap with 'em!!

The backgrounds are called "Summer's End" for no other reason than it was created at the end of the summer!

You can DOWNLOAD 'EM HERE. (link will be good until the end of September)

If you use them, credit Summer's End by Beth Nixon available on her blog (and list my blog address if allowed! http://bethnixon.blogspot.com)

Thanks! And enjoy your weekend!!

Privacy and a FREEBIE! {Print It Now 3}

2008-08-24T10:19:00.002-04:00

{edited to include freebie only}

OK . . . FREEBIE alert!!

Number three in the Print It Now series is here!!

Download the first two in the freebies section then click below to get the latest installment!!

Then skip below to pick up the newest one!

DOWNLOAD HERE. (It'll be here for about a month or so!)

Enjoy your Sunday!

Swinging {and Black & White and Rainbow-licious FREEBIE}

2008-08-16T15:54:00.002-04:00

{edited to include freebie info only}

I have two. Well, one.

No, two!

Confused yet?

It started out as a pure black and white kit inspired by outfits I saw at a recent baby shower. But it needed a pop of color so I added some rainbow gradients and scuffed them all up.

But as I tried to scrap with the kit, I realized that the swirls were too much with the rainbow colors. And making everything rainbow colored made it hard to use. And, just black and white was hard to use as well!

SO, two kits. Essentially the same. One in pure black and white. One with added rainbow sparks added to each piece. That way you have the choice to scrap it black and white, scrap it black and white with pops of rainbow pieces, or go full out color! Your creativity will have no bounds!

Here are the previews of the two kits, It's Black and White and It's Rainbow-licious.

Let me know what you think! Comments are always appreciated. Links to layouts are loved.

And as I plan new things . . . what do you want to see? More kits, frames, or templates; more blather; more tutorials? Let me know!

Ok, enough said . . . here are the links. They should be good to the end of the month or a little longer.

It's Black and White DOWNLOAD HERE

It's Rainbow-licious DOWNLOAD HERE

As always, if posting online, credit Beth Nixon, available on her blog, and link up my blog if allowed: http://bethnixon.blogspot.com

Thanks and ENJOY!!

Bethy's Tutorials: Using Masks for Selective Color

2008-08-04T13:29:00.001-04:00

Ever seen those dramatic pictures using selective coloring? Where only one part of the photograph is in color? There are several ways, as is always true in Photoshop, to get that effect. But my favorite way is to use a mask. I never really understood masks (still don't fully understand all they can do) but it does make for a REALLY easy way to create selective coloring on your photograph!

Not sure what selective coloring is? The first photo below is full-color. The one just below it, I converted the photo to black and white and left the rose in full color. So, let's see one way we can do that!

Step 1
Pick the photo you want to play with. Name it color or whatever works for you!

Step 2
Duplicate the photo. Convert the one on top to black and white. (and creatively, I named that layer black and white)
(I like the black and white action I downloaded from the Pioneer Woman's Photography blog.)

Step 3
With the top layer (black and white) selected, click on "Add layer mask" (the third icon from the left on the bottom of the layer palette)

Step 4
You can see below that the mask is now added to your black and white photo. Click on the white box. (the layer mask thumbnail)
(and note, any time you do other things and decide to come back to the mask, be sure to click on that white box, the layer mask thumbnail. Otherwise you are just activating the layer and not the mask. What we want, when working with the mask, is to be sure the mask is active.)

Step 5
Select a soft, round brush at a size that works for painting over the area you are working on.

Be sure that you have BLACK as your brush color.

Why black? Because this is how a mask works . . . the mask is on top of your black and white layer. When you paint on your mask with black, it's like erasing the black and white layer and showing what's underneath (the full-color photo in our example).

When you paint on your mask with white, it's like it's restoring the black and white layer as the top layer.

SO . . . black paint, seems to erase the top layer . . . white paint puts it back on.

Step 6
Start painting with that black brush! No need to be terribly careful. We can fix that later. Just brush about and get the area covered.

And check out that white layer thumbnail next to the black and white layer. See how what I've painted in black, shows up on the thumbnail!

Step 7
Ok, time to fix what I "over-painted".

I just switch to white, and paint over my mistakes. It's like putting the black and white layer back!

Step 8
Make a mistake?
See what I did below? I painted a little too much white and turned the edge of my rose back to black and white. Can you guess what I need to do?

Step 9
Switch back to black and fix it up!

Step 10
Just switch back and forth between black and white while the layer mask thumbnail is activated.

Black will "erase" the black and white layer to show the layer underneath.
White will "restore" the black and white layer to hide the layer underneath.

Zoom in real close to get tiny details. And keep playing until you are happy with the results!

Is this all necessary?

Nope. I used to do selective coloring by layering a black and white photo over the coloring and actually erasing my black and white photo in selected spots. BUT, if I make a mistake? It's harder to fix. This sort of re-touching is actually fun and not nearly as tedious as it's so easy to fix mistakes!!

Have fun with it . . . and if you do use the tutorial . . . let me see the results!! Leave me a link so I can come ohh and ahh!

Bethy's Tutorials: Frames and Paths in Photoshop {with freebie!}

2008-08-01T08:12:00.001-04:00

I've had a few questions on how I made the Print it Now freebies. (click for set 1 and set 2) Now, if I was selling these, I'd be embarrassed to tell you how easy they are to make! I've had so much fun making 'em, I'll probably do at least one more set! But, heck, I'm giving them away so I'll also let you in on how I made them!

A few tips on using paths and you can customize frames for any photo you want! Just remember, Photoshop is a complex program and there more than likely is 14 different ways to do what I'm going to show you and most definitely an easier way! This is just what I've found works for me.

Ok . . . onto the tutorial.
(remember to click on any image to see it bigger)

Here's the finished frame (and yes, it's a freebie at the end of the tutorial!)

It's my kids overlooking the river and the skyline. I wanted a frame that would emphasize the skyline a bit so I made one just to fit this photo!

Step 1
Open up a new document. I'm making frames for 6"x4" frames so I created a canvas at 6.5"x4.5" and 300dpi. (why bigger? just cause I like a little extra room when I'm creating!)

Then I add guidelines. I marked off the 6"x4" borders and then came in about a quarter inch. I like to keep a minimum of a quarter inch margin to avoid any printing issues. That seems to be enough to keep things working.

(and, yes, I just noticed that my example is a bit off as one edge is more of 1/8" and the other is 1/4" but, you get the point, right? I'm usually very tedious with my measurements but I ain't going back to fix all my screen shots now! So, just pretend that I did it right, kay?)

Step 2
The next step is to draw out a path for the big box of the frame. You need to have your Paths toolbar open. (Windows > Paths) Then click on your Tools bar and choose the rounded rectangle tool. (that's the bottom arrow) Then look at the top. Be sure that middle box is selected, Paths. (the top red arrow is pointing to it)

I chose a radius of about 50 pixels. (that's the box to the right of your top red arrow. It determines how round the corners will be.)

Step 3
Create a new layer above your picture. I named it, creatively, big box. Choose a brush. I chose a plain black brush at about 5 pixels. (and here's a tip . . . open up the brush palette and make sure the Spacing is at 0%. For some reason it defaults to something like 25%. When I draw a line without changing the spacing, it seems a big jaggy.)

Step 4
Ok, you have your brush chosen with the color set to black, you are on a new layer above your photo, make sure your path is selected. (If you can see that path you just created, then it's selected. If you can't, on the paths tool bar, just click on that layer on the paths toolbar.) You are now ready to draw the first part of the frame. On the path toolbar, at the bottom, second icon is "stroke path with brush". (see arrow below)

Click it! You should have a line like below.

Step 5
Want more shapes? Repeat. And here's a hint. If you name your layer on the Paths toolbar, you can go back and use it again anytime you want. If you don't name it, it'll be lost when you click off it.

Let me show you what I mean. Look at the image just above. See the Paths toolbar layer? It's called Work Path. That's just the name given to the current path you are creating and it's temporary. Unless you click and name it (just like you would a layer on the Layers Palette, it'll be lost when you move on.

And that's sometimes ok! I didn't care about saving the big one . . . it was already drawn out. SO, I clicked on the Paths toolbar UNDER the layer. That deselects that path and lets me create a new one. I created a small square at the bottom right. Created a new layer. (I like everything I draw on a new layer.) And, just like above, chose a brush and stroked my path.

That give me this:

Step 6
Lather, rinse, and repeat.

I wanted a small box at the top to emphasize the buildings in the skyline. I just de-selected the current (small box) path by clicking under it on the path toolbar, drew out what I wanted, created a new layer, chose a brush, stroked it, and viola!

Step 7
Erase.

On the long thin box at the top, I erased what was in the big box. On the big box layer, I erased the line at the top.

Step 8
Ok, now I want some pretty swirls. I have a few brushes from Stephanie Shierdla at Obsidian Dawn. I chose a swirl and, on a new layer, rotated them around and stamped a single swirl in three of the corners.

Step 9
Looking good, eh! Now, I want to delete the swirls that are outside of the frame. Problem is that big frame is actually on separate layers. That would make it hard to select and delete the extra swirls. So I selected the big box and the top box and merged them together to one big box. (Layer > Merge)

Now I can select only the outside of this new big box.

Step 10
Go to the swirl layer and delete!

Now, if you want to save what you've created to use again and again . . . turn off the picture layer AND the background. You want ONLY the frame lines showing.

Go to File > Save As. Then choose the format to be PNG. Name it and it's there for you to use forever!

That's it!

Yeah, it seems like a lot of steps. But just run through it once or twice and you'll see how truly easy it is!!

Want the frame I just created? Well, click HERE!

Enjoy!!

You're Gonna Miss This {plus Print It Now 2 FREEBIE}

2008-07-31T07:27:00.002-04:00

{edited to include freebie only}

And that's where my next freebie comes in! All those digital pictures sitting on your computer? Because you have plans to do it someday or plans to do something with them? Forget it.

Concentrate on RIGHT NOW. Download this second set of frames, pretty 'em up with them (and the first set), add dates and a line of journaling if you wish, and PRINT 'EM!

NOW! Enjoy them NOW . . . not next week or next year.

Forget scrapping each one to artistic perfection or just thinking you'll get to printing them . . . someday.

Just stop thinking about it and 12 other things at the same time. Do it.

Now!

Here's the preview:

DOWNLOAD IT HERE.
(link will be good until the end of August or so)

Enjoy and have a great day!

Favorite Thing . . . {and a FREEBIE, Summer Joy!}

2008-07-27T22:01:00.002-04:00

{edited to include freebie info only}

Onto important things . . .

My freebie, Summer Joy, is ready for download!

You can see the layout I made with it here. It has pinks, greens, browns, and a splash of yellow. Beads and glitter. Flowers and more!

DOWNLOAD IT HERE.
Link will be good until the end of August or so.

Enjoy it! And, if you like it, post a comment. Send me a link to a layout you create!

Show your love and I'll keep making more for you all!

You all enjoy the rest of your Sunday and Monday too.

Enjoy the freebie . . . "see" ya all soon!

the Winner is . . .

2008-07-20T21:08:00.001-04:00

I had 48 entries into the Neglected Beauty Contest. I went to random.org and plugged in the numbers and the winner is???

Lucky #2!!

Victoria, you are my winner! Please send me an email to beth.nixon.blog@gmail.com and I will get busy arranging your prize of a $10 gift certificate to the digi-scrap site of your choice or amazon.com!

Congrats and thanks to ALL of you who played along.

There were some really amazing thoughts and some that really touched me.

Thanks for sharing!

I'll be back tomorrow with, hopefully, a few pictures of our trip to New Hampshire (what a beautiful, beautiful place) and whatever else I can dream up!

You all take care and have a nice evening.

Bethy's Tutorials: Shadow Power! (shadows on their own layer)

2008-07-14T07:42:00.001-04:00

Adobe Photoshop CS2 has a fantastic option. (maybe earlier versions, but I don't have any earlier versions to check) The ability to put the shadow on it's own layer. Now, that's power!

Now, with anything in Photoshop, there are infinite ways to do things. This is just the way I've discovered works for me. And, the concepts can often be adapted for use in other programs.

Ok, you know those super cool frames that look like they are curled right off the page? Well, this is how I go about creating one.

First, I draw out my shape. I curve two of the edges in a bit as something that's curled off the page, wouldn't be straight anymore! (Click on any of the pictures to see them bigger. )

Then I just add a basic shadow. Nothing fancy yet. Now, see that little "f" the red arrow is pointing to? (layer effects) Right click on that. Towards the bottom (third from the bottom, in fact) you'll see "Create Layer". Click that.
(*see bottom for a more in-depth explanation of creating layers of your effects)

So, now you'll have this. See how the frame and the drop shadow are on separate layers?

Here's just the frame with the eye (visibility) turned off on the shadow layer.

And here's just the shadow with the eye (visibility) turned off on the frame layer.
(remember, click on any image to see it bigger!)

Ok, now you have the POWER! You can manipulate that shadow anyway you want and NOT mess with your original image!

My favorite tool is Warp. I click on the shadow layer, go to Edit > Transform > Warp and just have fun!
And I usually decrease the opacity to about 40% or so, but eyeball it for your project!

See how it looks like it's curling off the page? Except for one problem. What I'm trying to create is a frame that is part of the photo. I don't want a curled frame that's laying on-top of a photo, know what I mean?

But with the shadow on it's own layer . . . well, that's not a problem!

I do a very rough selection . . . just selecting any shadow that is INSIDE the white frame.

And delete!

Ok, that looks a bit funny, doesn't it. Just sitting on the background like that. But wait until you put a photo underneath the layers and crop it to be inside the white frame.

My three layers, (frame, shadow, photo) now look like one image. All curled up on the light blue background!

Detaching the shadow from your object is a very powerful way to manipulate it to look like a real 3-d object!

*A little bonus information on that little "f" (layer effects) and "Create Layer" that's especially important when dealing with a more complex creation. ANY style you've added to the object will become it's own layer when you click "Create Layer". If you are working on a more complicated image that has effects, when you click on that "Create Layer" option, ANY layer effect you've added will become it's own layer. So, inner shadow, bevels, glows, gradients, strokes, ANY you used, are ALL going to become their own layer! You could turn one innocent little object into a confusing mess of layers!

Figuring out the shadow, warping, bending it to my will, is usually one of the last things I do. So, I "set" the layer without the shadow THEN add the shadow and get it on it's own layer. What does "set" mean?

Anytime you have layer effects on an object, when you manipulate the object, the effects change accordingly. The way *I* stop those changes, when I don't want them to change anymore, and make them part of the object and not just a layer effect is to "set" it.

For shadow manipulation, I add all my layer effects EXCEPT shadow. When I'm happy with it, I duplicate it. (I always duplicate because I hate making PERMANENT changes to anything!!) I turn the visibility off of the original and work with the duplicate. I put a blank layer above the duplicate and merge the two together. (Layers > Merge Layers)

Those layer effects are now PERMANENT! That means I can NO longer adjust them. (that's why I make the duplicate, just in case I change my mind!)

Now, I go ahead and add the shadow. When I right click on that "f" and "Create Layer" I get only two layers . . . the object and the shadow. Not a mess of layers.

This all sounds pretty complicated. And it's NOT necessary . . . just makes it easier when I'm working with a more complicated piece with lots of layer effects involved!

Hope you all have fun manipulating and bending those shadows to your will!

I Need To SHUT-UP {plus Print It Now FREEBIE!}

2008-07-11T07:27:00.003-04:00

{edited to include freebie info only}

Well, I created these to do just that in just a few clicks! Now, I can plop these fun frames on my photos, add a few simple words, if I want, and send them off to get printed! I'll fill up my 4"x6" album in no time and STILL feel like I've added my special creative touch!

You can DOWNLOAD THE FRAMES HERE!
(link will be good until mid-August or so)

And, please, let me know if you like them! I had LOTS of fun creating them and will put together more if you all like 'em!

So, leave me a comment . . . a link to anything you create . . . cause that lets me know you want more!

If you post online, credit:
Print It Now 1 by Beth Nixon
and, if allowed, post my blog address:
http://bethnixon.blogspot.com

Ok, that last part was fun . . . posting the freebie.

You all have a GREAT Friday!

Other

2008-07-08T09:22:00.005-04:00

Here's a catch-all for all the posts that don't fit into a neat category.

Thanks for checking in!

Bethy's Tutorial: Sticker-ize an Element! (with Ready Made Layout FREEBIE!)

2008-07-07T18:57:00.001-04:00

Ok, I'm not sure sticker-ize is even a word but here's how to take a graphic element and make it look like a sticker!

Below is a finished layout using some elements from an old kit of mine.
(and yes, this layout is the freebie!)

And all the elements used are what I call out-of-the-box. Meaning I didn't change them at all, except for two pieces. Let's take a look at the layout BEFORE I changed anything . . . before I sticker-ized it!

The word art and the heart are graphic elements. No shadows, no depth. They lay flat on the background. And in this layout, them make is seem confused and certainly don't add anything, as is, to the layout!

I'm going to show you how to sticker 'em in Photoshop.

Remember, with Photoshop and all programs, there are many ways to get the same thing done. I'm going to show you how I do it, but you may find an easier way. And what works in Photoshop, well, the ideas will easily translate into most programs!

First, with your magic wand tool, select the element you want to make a sticker.

Then go to select > modify > expand and expand your selection by about 15 pixels.

Add a layer beneath your object and fill it with white.

Add a shadow and your done! But if you have Photoshop, I'm going to show you a little tip to make it just a bit better. Take a close look at the white. Can you see how it's just a big jaggy. It's not enough to drive me crazy, but it is enough to bug me! So, we're going to use paths to fix that right up.

Go back to where you just made your selection 15 pixels bigger. Open your Paths window. With those marching ants going around, click on the fourth button at the bottom of the Paths window, Make work path from selection.

This is what it'll look like.

Make sure you are on a blank layer underneath your element and that your foreground color is white. Then click on the first button on your Paths window, Fill path with foreground color.

(tip: in your paths window, click anywhere off the work path selection to have the path line disappear.)
Add a shadow. And take a close look! See how much smoother that is!

I did the same thing with the heart element. Selected the heart, expand the selection, convert to a path, fill with white, add a shadow.

Then I added some color. By adding a new layer, between the heart and the sticker layers, I was able to select individual areas and fill away!

Making a sticker is easy. Adding the extra path step will just push your element creation to the next level!

Just for reading through the tutorial, I've uploaded the layout I made as a ready-made layout freebie! It's 8"x8" at 300 dpi with room for four pictures! Just plop four of your favorite photos on a layout below the png file included in the zip and you have a layout ready to go!

DOWNLOAD IT HERE!

Enjoy!

What's Better?? {plus Our Summer Template FREEBIE!}

2008-06-26T05:17:00.002-04:00

{edited to include freebie info only}

And the perfect summer treat for my digi-scrapping readers is a FREE summer template!

This one has room for twelve photos with a fun sun background. And it's a fun 10" x 8" size which makes it perfect for framing and getting your layouts out of the computer and up on the wall for everyone to admire!

You can DOWNLOAD IT HERE!

I created the template in the hopes that I can instantly scrap my summer. Each month, choose my favorite four photos and on September 1st, print and throw in a frame. Instant review of our summer! But knowing me, I included the years 1998-2008! Because, ahem, I still haven't finished scrapping last summer! Please tell me I'm not alone in my delayed scrapping skills! Here's my layout using the template and last summer's photos!

Credit:
Our Summer Template by Beth Nixon available on her blog. And if allowed, please leave my blog address: http://bethnixon.blogspot.com

And, as always, leave me a comment if you like it. (then I'll know to make more!)

Enjoy the template and enjoy your Thursday!

Bethy's Tutorial: Word Art {with Word Art FREEBIE!}

2008-06-24T09:32:00.001-04:00

I LOVE creating word art. It's one of my favorite things to do and often my kits start with a piece of word art.

I'm certainly NOT an expert. But I can pass on the three tips I have for creating stunning word art.

1) Fonts can be classified in about five different categories. Yeah, that's not exactly true. There are probably endless variations but it's a good place to start.

a) serif (note the small cross lines at the ends of the strokes)

b) sans-serif (notice the clean lines)

c) script (I also include handwritten fonts in this category)

d) typewriter

e) and everything else! I just call it decorative

Knowing fonts is ESSENTIAL to the next step.
And be sure to check the list at the end for a few sites to find fonts!

2) When you are combining different fonts, there are two fast and loose rules you should keep in mind.

First, most times, only use 2 (or maybe 3) fonts in creating a word art or in a layout. Sure, there are exceptions but most times using more fonts only makes the word art (or layout) look confused and without structure.

Second, when combining fonts, check out those five categories above. ALWAYS combine fonts from DIFFERENT categories! Yep, you want a contrast between your words. (see the tutorial here for more on contrast) You do NOT want the difference so subtle that it's hard to see. You want it to be obvious! I *usually* combine a very low-key, straight-forward font (like Arial or Garamond) with a bold font (like Artistamp Medium or violation). The bigger the difference, the more striking the word art will, usually, be.

3) And last . . . look at the phrase you are trying to create and emphasize part of it! (And don't be afraid of size!)

For example, let's use the phrase "so in love with you"

Do you mean:
"so IN LOVE with you"
or
"so in love with YOU"

See the difference?

Here are the two examples I created using the phrase above, emphasizing the different parts. (and yes, these are a fun freebie for you! The link is just below!)

Emphasizing different parts give word art different feels!

So, play . . . try different fonts, sizes, combinations. The tips I have above are NOT hard and fast rules.

Here's my one and only rule when creating . . . if *YOU* like it, it's great! It's when things don't look just right to you that you can look over some of the tips above or any of the basic design rules and start to play and tweak things to get it like *YOU* want!!

Ok, to spice up your word art and your layouts, you need fonts! LOTS of them! Here are a few sites for free fonts:

http://www.dafont.com
http://www.fontfreak.com/index3.htm
http://www.abstractfonts.com

And here are a few where you can buy great fonts:

Creative Keepsakes
Suzanne Walker at Digital Scrapbook Place

Just remember, if you are creating for yourself, personal use, you can use these fonts anyway you like. If you decide to share or sell anything, please make sure you have the commercial rights to do that!

And if you know a great font site, let me know and I'll add it to the list above!

Ok, here's the link to the two pieces of word art I featured above. You can DOWNLOAD THEM HERE!

Enjoy!!

A New Perspective {and Smile In My Heart FREEBIE!}

2008-06-22T13:22:00.002-04:00

{edited to include freebie info only}

Ok, ok. Enough about ME! I know what you all really want . . . the super duper new freebie! This one was SO fun to make. The blues and greens with a pop of yellow and red will make just about any photo (and memory) shine! There are 11 unique png elements and five jpg backgrounds. Scalloped heart, big bracket, notepaper hearts, masking tape and much more!

I sure hope you enjoy it! You can see the layout I made with it here.

As always, please let me know if you like it! Give me a link if you use it so I can come ooh and ahh!
Credits are: Smile In My Heart by Beth Nixon
and if you're allowed, a link to my blog: http://bethnixon.blogspot.com

DOWNLOAD IT HERE
(the link will be good until mid-July or so!)

Enjoy!

Have a great day!!

Bethy's Tutorial: Journaling as an Artistic Element (Part 3)

2008-06-20T07:10:00.000-04:00

(Check out Parts 1 and 2)

Do you have just one line or a small paragraph? Can it echo the lines of your layout? Border it? Follow the photo? If you have one line of long text, you can almost treat it like a ribbon, snaking across your layout.

Jill borders her picture here with her journaling. By framing the photo with her journaling, it becomes an artistic part of it. Your eye stays right on Keith!

It's just a list of Chris's favorite books but by using that list to border the layout, Tara compliments the horizontal straight lines at the bottom.

The length of the journaling, the emotion of the journaling, the importance of the readability, are all things to consider and can help you determine what sort of "element" your journaling will become.

Just remember, journaling is part of you. There is no right or wrong. Get the words down and the rest will flow from there!

Here are a few other examples . . .

(Mee Maw by Elizabeth Weaver, layout by Beth Nixon)

(Corgi Lover)

(BethyNixon)

(OrangeSue)

(BethyNixon)

(MaureenH)

(Sharon1313)

(Meg)

End of Part 3

*note: for credits and full-size looks at most of the layouts, click to see them in the user's gallery at DSP.

Bethy's Tutorial: Journaling as an Artistic Element (Part 2)

2008-06-20T07:05:00.000-04:00

(Check out Part 1 HERE)

Is the journaling short and to the point? Then you might need just a small area or a tag. Keep that small space in mind when you are placing your elements. Where could you tuck it in to continue good design concepts and keep it an essential part of your layout?

This layout by Sharon is a good example. She knew she wanted to include the lyrics. It didn't need a lot of room, but by using the rule of thirds and putting her photo and her delicious garden on the left, she left a column, just big enough for her lyrics. And by changing the background behind the words, it weights it just a bit to the right, balancing those heavy flowers with her lyric section.

Or this one by Jenni (willjenni). She needed room for here title and her few lines of journaling. But didn't want to take the focus off the simply heart warming photo. By concentrating on where the focal part of the layout lays, on the left, and blending beautifully the right side, she was able to find a perfect place to put the journaling.

Here's another one by Chris (gundimom) that is the perfect artistic placement of just a little text. Her text mirrors the long line of the pole and emphasizes the story she is trying to tell in her layout.

What about fonts?

For long journaling, keep it simple. Clean, read-able. For shorter sections or big fonts, get crazy!! This is one of my favorite layouts. The layout was conceived with the journaling, the tape, and the fonts in mind. It was about both the photo and the journaling. They words had to be their own element to emphasize the story behind the package.

(elements of Stacey Jewel Stahl)

And this one by Julia (webfrau). By using so many fonts she emphasizes the story she's telling. It's no longer just the words. The visual impact of the journaling tells the story as well.

End of Part 2
(see Part 3)

*note: for credits and full-size looks at the layouts, click to see them in the user's gallery at DSP.

Bethy's Tutorial: Journaling as an Artistic Element (Part 1)

2008-06-20T07:00:00.000-04:00

Let's talk a little about journaling. And journaling NOT as an after thought and not put on a layout in a boring block, but journaling that's an artistic part of your layout! But, first, why journal at all?? I mean besides a name and date, why do we journal?? The power of scrapbooking IS journaling. We are putting together both the photo and the words in an artistic way so that we'll always remember the moment, exactly how we want. And, let's face it. Who is the most forgotten person in scrapbooking? US, the scrapper!! The first layout I want to show you is for the journaling. It reminds me perfectly WHY we need to journal. It's our way of being in the layout! This by one of my most favorite scrappers. Not just for her fantastic photos and her utterly fantastic compositions, but for her words.

Here's what Meg has to say about journaling in her layout:

Me. The person behind the camera (most of the time). You won't find many pictures of my face. But read the words. You'll hear me. See the smiles on your faces. You're reflecting the one on mine. Know that I created these pages out of love for you.

Ok . . . so how do we start making the journaling MORE then just an after thought or something we slap in the corner?

Start with the journaling! The story you want to tell. It doesn't have to be long, it doesn't have to be written to perfection. It just has to say what you want to say about the memory you are recording. Then think how that fits in your layout.

Is your journaling happy and hopeful and long? Then your kit might be bold and full of patterns and you will need a vellum or a plain mat to fit your journaling. When you are choosing your elements, pull an appropriate size piece into your canvas or keep an area for it.

Sharon's layout here is bright with a nice long section of journaling but the way she's blocked it out, the journaling flows beautifully and becomes part of the design. She has her swirly elements clear of the text and the patterns are on the borders so they don't clutter up the text.

This one by Ann (isshinryu_mom) is FILLED with text. But she carefully chose a background that wouldn't distract from her text and had it flow around her cluster of elements. There's a lot of text. That's definitely a design challenge. And Ann made the text part of her design concept. If it had been an after thought, it might have been more stilted. Instead it's an intrinsic part of the design.

Or this one by Jill (momof1chef). Lots of text, patterned papers, elements, curves. And she placed everything knowing she would need the room to journal. That by clustering it all to one side, by using a plain background, she could journal her whole story.

One thing to keep in mind, for most layouts, 12x12 is too long to read. What do I mean? Many lines of text that are 12 inches long become hard on the reader's eyes. With both Ann's and Jill's layouts, those long 12 inch lines only make up a small portion of the layout. Most of the text lines are shorter in length. If you do have lots of text, try a column approach.

And if you have LOTS of journaling? Is it a story that will dominate the page? Then you want to concentrate on readability. Font choice - a serif - not too bold.

End of Part 1
(Part 2 and Part 3)

*note: for credits and full-size looks at the layouts, click to see them in the user's gallery at DSP.

Tiny {and Lined Up Template FREEBIE}

2008-06-16T07:29:00.002-04:00

{edited to include freebie info only}

I have another freebie ready for you! This one is a template framer, Lined Up.

What's a Framer? Well, it's my term for a 10" x 8" layout. The PERFECT size for quick and easy gifts! Or art on your wall! Frames are easy to find for that size and you can print them right on your own printer! Art on your wall, or for a gift, in a matter of minutes!

DOWNLOAD IT HERE!! Then, please, leave a comment if you like it, leave me a link if you use it, or click an ad if it catches your eye!

Credit, if posting on a digi-scrap site, Lined Up Template by Beth Nixon and mention my blog (http://bethnixon.blogspot.com) if you're allowed!

And check back later this week! I have a fun give away planned for your favorite digital scrapbook site or amazon.com! Plus I'm hoping to find the time to not only finish up another kit but also finish up a journaling tutorial!

Then check out my latest post, A Mother's Advice and check out the contest (June 18-19)!

Bethy's Tip for Color! {digi-scrap designers}

2008-06-15T19:26:00.001-04:00

I've been creating digital scrapbook product for almost two years. And one thing that I sometimes struggle with is finding beautiful and unique color schemes.

Well, I'm going to let you in on one of my secrets . . . many of you may already know this . . . but for those that struggle with color, check out kuler.adobe.com.

There are hundreds of schemes that you can search for by key word. Plus there's a option to create your own that is super fun to play with!

I'll search by a emotion, season, or just a general idea and I'm always blown away AND inspired by what comes up! For example, I had an idea for a kit that was going to be about love. And I wanted a summer-time feeling to it. So I searched for "summer love".

This is what I found:

I just LOVE the colors in this and it just inspired me! Usually paging through different searches gets me all sorts of inspiration! I have all sorts of files saved for future inspirations!

Just remember the "gallon, quart, pint" rule when designing. Choose a major color (or set of colors). Design a "gallon" of your product with that color. Then pick one to be the quart (something to compliment but not overwhelm) and then a "pint." That would be a highlight color. That gives your kit a cohesive feel.

Other color sites I've found to be useful are:

I also check out wallpaper sites! Those also give you ideas for patterns. Just be sure not to copy, just get inspired. We don't want anyone to violate copyright laws!

Hope the next time you get stuck for color inspiration, this helps!

I'm Thankful and the Sweet Summer FREEBIE!

2008-06-10T08:00:00.002-04:00

{edited to include freebie info only}

Now, snatch up the freebie down below. Leave me a comment here if you have a moment and you like the freebie. (And please do! If I know you all like these, I'll keep making more!!).

Ok, here's the kit, Sweet Summer. You can DOWNLOAD IT HERE! You can see a layout I did with it here.

As always, if you post, just credit Sweet Summer by Beth Nixon and list my blog address if allowed! http://bethnixon.blogspot.com

Thanks and enjoy!

P.S.
Grab my other freebies while you're here.
Love Life and Ordinary Joy page kits are going away tomorrow. Grab them quick if you don't already have them.

The 19 Circles Template will only be up for another week.

Oh So Happy page kit will be up until mid-June!

Have fun with them!

Bad Leopard {and a Template FREEBIE!}

2008-06-05T08:35:00.002-04:00

{edited to include freebie info only}

Ok, it's time for another freebie! This one is a template that I've been meaning to put together for a long time and I finally found the time to get it done!

The template was inspired by this layout of little boy at the circus. And what's great about this template is you can utilize not only LOTS of pictures and memorialize an entire event in one layout, but you can use some really lousy pictures! The pictures I took here were AWFUL. But I was able to crop just the parts I wanted and they didn't look half bad!

Here's the finished template.

You can DOWNLOAD IT HERE!

Enjoy!
(and, as always, I'd love it if you'd leave a comment if you like the freebie or click on an ad if it catches your eye!!)

Have a GREAT Thursday and I'll see y'all soon!

About Me!

2008-06-01T14:51:00.004-04:00

Welcome to my blog! I'm Beth. A mom, a wife, and a learning photographer, knitter, and whatever else catches my eye!

Just like all moms, I'm finding that the time goes by WAY too fast. And some days I feel like I get so wrapped up in the utter nonsense that I'm missing the best parts. I'm doing my absolute best to enjoy every second of it. But somedays . . . well . . . it's just hard.

So, I'm doing my best. My best to find the joy in every day and to choose happy over all the other alternatives. Sure, there are hard times and bad times. But I want to remember how I got through them, not how they defeated me.

Here you will find my musings as I try to find that joy and happiness. Even when it's tough. Also a few digital scrapbook freebies as I have time to create them, some tutorials on design and general Photoshop tips, some knitting, an occasional contest, and the rest of my blatherings.

Feel free to comment and give me suggestions! I love your stories and opinions. It's what brings me back to the computer to blog and to create new freebies.

Come back often or, better yet, sign up for a reader and you'll know as soon as I update!

Thanks and take care!

Thanks for stopping by!

Digital Scrapbook Freebies!

2008-06-01T14:49:00.000-04:00

Yep, that's right! Freebies for digital scrapbook right here!

Here are the freebies I've put together to share with my blog readers. If you use any of them, please credit the product to Beth Nixon available on her blog (and list my blog address if allowed; http://bethnixon.blogspot.com).

I create at 300 dpi. My product is big enough to create a wide variety of layouts but small enough so they won't overwhelm your hard drive! I aim for about 5 backgrounds and 11 unique png elements per page kit. I include shadows on some items to create that extra touch of realism. Everything is digitally created and is available for personal use only. Please feel free to share the link to my blog to anyone who may be interested but don't share the product zip files directly!

If you create a layout, please come back and let me know! Leave a comment if you like the freebies!

Freebies

19 Circles Template
Frame It Up: 10"x8" overlays
Glow: glowing line elements
In a Snap 1: overlays
In a Snap 2: overlays
It's Black and White page kit
It's Rainbow-licious page kit
Lined Up Template
Love Life page kit
Oh So Happy page kit
Ordinary Joy page kit
Our Summer Template
Precious page kit
Print It NOW 1: 4"x6" frames
Print It NOW 2: 4"x6" frames and stamps
Print it NOW 3: 4"x6" frames
Smile In My Heart page kit
Summer Dreams Word Art
Summer's End paper pack
Summer Joy page kit
Sweet Summer page kit
Tutorial Freebie: Print it NOW BONUS frame!
Tutorial Freebie: Scalloped Edge frame
Tutorial Freebie: Sticker-ize an Element (Hope Times Four ready-made layout)
Tutorial Freebie: Word Art

Remember to check back often!

Thank Goodness for Photoshop!

2008-06-01T11:31:00.002-04:00

As I mentioned last week, I finally got myself a new DSLR camera, a Nikon D40. And it's the best toy I've gotten since I was about nine-years old! Since last Saturday, I've taken way over 1,000 pictures.

So, my first thought . . . HOW did anyone learn the intricacies of a SLR camera before digital? It just had to be out of the reach of most people. Can you imagine trying to learn something as complicated as balancing aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and exposure with film? Waiting and paying for development of film to find out your mistakes?

Heck, I must have blown through 100 pictures just sitting in a chair, taking photos of the sprinkler at different shutter speeds. I took entire series of pictures of the same object, just noting and changing a setting at a time. Then studied the photos to see what it all mean to the finished photo.

Then? I just deleted them all. Sure, I've kept a few of my favorite photos. But most were just deleted.

Anyway, I was practicing yesterday, just on my own toes, inside on a rainy day. I'm not happy with many indoor pictures yet so I was messing with ISO and exposure trying to see what happens.

Then it stopped raining. But it was still quite dark and cloudy out. I had promised the kids they could go stomping in rain puddles, so, off we went, me with my camera, to go stomping in puddles.

The shutter speed just wasn't going to be fast enough to capture them jumping and the puddles splattering about. So I futzed with things. Things I *thought* I had learned when practicing on my rainy-day toes. Things I shouldn't have futzed with as I came home with about 200 REALLY lousy pictures. Bad. And such cute moments that I was really ticked that I didn't notice how bad the photos were on the camera. I thought they were ok until I came home and pulled them up in Photoshop.

But I had to try to save them. Here's what I did to try to save them.

Here's the original, straight-out-of-the-camera picture.

Isn't that cute! But awful at the same time! I just love her face and the mailbox and the green but good golly did I mess up the exposure on this one!

So, being the Photoshop kinda girl I am, I set off to see if I could fix it.

First thing I did was add an adjustment layer for the levels. This just boosted the contrast. Made it look less soft. I color picked a black from the photo and then moved the sliders, on both sides, in a bit.

Next up was an adjustment level for color. Cause look how blue that photo looks. So I added yellow and red and took a bit of green away.

Better. But no matter of adjustment is really going to make this look true. It's just too off. And as this was a cloudy day. And we're stomping in puddles on a dirty sidewalk, I decided a more grungy, urban feel would work.

So, I made a copy of the original photo and moved it to the very top of my two adjustment levels. Just using the standard settings in Photoshop, I desaturated it to B&W. Then I took the layer mode and set it to Hard Light.

There. That's better. But I still wanted a bit more. So I duplicated that Hard Light layer. Changed it to Soft Light and took the opacity down just a bit.

It doesn't look a heck of a lot different here, but on my screen, it added just a bit more pop with the contrast.

The final step, I merged all the layers and sharpened. Just to define things a bit more.

So from a big mess-up in the camera to an artistic looking fix in Photoshop.

You can see the whole series, all in a nice neat slideshow, at my page on Flickr.com, here.

And here's a picture of little boy that I did with practically the same process.

I'll I can say is THANK GOODNESS for Photoshop for nitwits like me!! And now? Now I'm off to read that manual a bit closer to see if I can get it right from the start next time!

Thanks for reading and enjoy your Sunday!

Thanks for the Ads??? {and Oh So Happy FREEBIE}

2008-05-30T14:36:00.002-04:00

{edited to include freebie info only}

Ok . . . enough of my ad talk! I know what you all really want! The FREEBIE!! The new one is a kit called "Oh So Happy".

DOWNLOAD IT HERE!

Enjoy!! And as always, let me know if you like it and post any links to layouts you create!!

How To Keep Up With All These Blogs!

2008-05-22T15:58:00.002-04:00

Blogs. Good golly there are a lot of them out there. And A LOT that I love to read when ever they update. But, it can be overwhelming trying to keep up. I was bookmarking and checking on them every few days but then I would miss things or waste time looking at blogs that haven't updated.

And for us beginners, trying to figure this all out can be overwhelming. So, I thought I'd put together a little something to you started on keeping up with them all!

Many of you are expert bloggers. And you understand this all much better than me. But if you are new to trying to keep up with them and want to start following more blogs (like mine! LOL), then you need a reader!!

I use google reader. I switched to igoogle.com as my home page and life has never been easier. You can add widgets for your email, a reader to update you with all those blogs, a calendar, to do list, weather and so much more!

But we're all about the blog right now. For me, http://reader.google.com is the way to go. Sign up. Then you'll see a link that says "Add Subscription". Add the blog you want to follow, let's say mine, http://bethnixon.blogspot.com/, and every time I update, it'll show up in your reader! You won't have to check your bookmarks or remember to check them at all. The reader does it all for you.

Plus it's concise. I subscribe to about 50 blogs. It takes me minutes a day to go through the ones that have updated! And I don't miss a thing.

Some of my favorite blogs are:
http://thepioneerwoman.com/
She's funny, sweet, has GREAT give aways, and even better photos!

http://digital-photography-school.com/blog/
Always something new to learn about digital photography!

http://photoshopdisasters.blogspot.com/
Seeing these photoshop disasters doesn't get much funnier!

http://qw88nb88.wordpress.com/
Andrea's Buzzing About . . . she's just smart and funny. I've garnered great insight on how to think about my son as we go through the process of trying to help him.

But why even blog or subscribe to someone else's blog?? You know, that confused me for a long time. I'm still figuring out facebook (add me if you're on!) but blogging is, for me, about connecting. I share my little stories and thoughts. And the comments of people sharing my pain, my laughter, my joy. It's a way of connecting. Of us all putting on our sparkly shoes and sharing the joy of life. At least that's why I enjoy them!

Why do you blog? What makes you read someone else's blog? What are your favorite blogs? Tell me all about what you love!

-----------
Beth Nixon
"I'm choosing happy!"
---------

Sparkly Shoes and a Freebie! {Ordinary Joy}

2008-05-19T11:02:00.004-04:00

{edited to include freebie info only}

Ok, ok. Enough about me and my sparkly attitude. I know what you all really want . . . the digital scrapbook freebie!! This kit was inspired by my son. Just outside playing and picking some pretty weeds to give to me. Just an everyday moment. The kind that brings you joy. And the kind I never want to forget!

Here's the DOWNLOAD LINK. And please, leave me a comment here if you you like it or use it. I'd love to see what you all do with it. For credit, if you post a layout somewhere:
Ordinary Joy by Beth Nixon from her blog (and post the address, http://bethnixon.blogspot.com, if allowed).

Here's a look at the kit in action with a layout featuring little boy.

And, please, feel free to pass along the link to my blog to who ever might be interested. And if you have a blog, I'd love if you'd link my blog up in your blog. And show me! I'll be sure to check out your blog too!!

Enjoy!

Love Life {digital scrapbook FREEBIE!}

2008-05-13T21:28:00.005-04:00

Ok, I promised this yesterday and I've finally found a few minutes to get it up for you all!

This is the first page kit in quite a while and one created just because! You can DOWNLOAD IT HERE!

And, please, feel free to point friends to my blog to pick it up! And, if you create a layout, please leave me a comment with a link so I can check it out!!

Most of all . . . have fun with it! Scrap something happy! Scrap something just to make yourself smile! Scrap a moment that will make you giggle 10 years from now! Enjoy!

I can't wait to see what you all come up with! Enjoy the freebie!!

credits if you post a layout anywhere:
Love Life by Beth Nixon available on her blog (and post the address if allowed: http://bethnixon.blogspot.com/)

Thanks!

P.S. Be sure to check back often!! I have a new freebie in the works that I hope to post soon!

Bethy's Tutorials: Focal Point

2008-05-01T11:22:00.000-04:00

This time we're talking about focal points.

Simply put, divide your layout into thirds both vertically and horizontally. Where those lines intersect (at the red dots) those are your focal points. Those are where the eyes naturally rest. When you are placing the focal point of your layout, remember those dots.

And yes, with a few exceptions, every layout *should* have a focal point. That focal point should be bigger than everything else, it should jump and yell "LOOK AT ME". It could be the title, an embellishment, the journaling. But, most often, it's one of your photos. So, should you center your photo right on those focal points?? Nope! Center the focal point of your focal point on them!! Did you get that?? LOL

If it's a close-up of your darling granddaughter, make sure her eyes are near that point. Is it a photo of your husband holding your baby boy's hand? Put those hands on one of those red dots!

Let's touch VERY quickly on flow. The natural way your eye flows through a layout is that dotted line in my sample. Starts at the top left and Z's through to the bottom right. Flowing through each of those dots. That's key when you are placing elements. You can use those elements to enhance the natural way our eyes go through a layout. Have the help the viewer go to the focal point.

And hey, have you every noticed those fantastic negative space layouts? The ones with a cluster of elements and lots of empty space. Did you ever notice that *most* of them tend to weight to the bottom right? Well, that's because of flow. Your eye ends up there. I've tried to do layouts that aren't there and they always feel off to me. Why? Because that's they way the eye flows!

Now, when I first started reading all these "design rules" I started to feel overwhelmed. I started to think too much. But, these things are what your eye does naturally!! It's just understanding that. So, when you are designing your layout, if your fussing with it and it feels off, remember these natural design rules! It just may help you fuss that layout to a composition that makes you happy!!

And, again, I would highly recommend the Non-Designer's Design Book by Robin Williams. Although she doesn't talk about Focal Points, she touches on so many other areas that really make you realize how to put together all the basic thoughts on design together in a pleasing way!

Bethy's Tutorials: Shadows

2008-05-01T09:25:00.000-04:00

Below is a mini-tutorial I put together about shadows. Different shadows will give you very different looks. This will give you the info to follow *your* muse and make those shadows speak! Use it as you'd like.

Ok . . . let's talk about shadows! They are a huge part of digital scrapbooking . . . dare I say essential! For any layout that is striving to show depth, layers, texture, then you NEED shadowing. Many elements come with small shadows already applied. Why? Well, when I'm creating let's say a bead, the light source needs to be there. The gleam on the bead is essential to making it look real. An element without a shadow simply doesn't look right. It's not complete. Light source is assumed when I create each and every piece. I think about how the light will hit a piece of paper, a ribbon, a piece of yarn. Then I do my best to create that digitally so everything will be realistic. From the texture, to the gleam on a metal brad, to the shadow.

And if shadows are so important in creating a kit, they are just as important in creating a layout. Let's take a look at four ways an element might look. The first example above is the out-of-the-box shadow. Just as it comes when you download the kit. It's small. Barely there. Perfect for adding to your layout without further adjustment necessary. AND, small enough that you can add your own shadow and give it an extra kick. Pop it off the page more, even rotate and still keep the shadow direction looking realistic. So, the second example is an average shadow setting that I use in a layout. (Photoshop settings: distance, 2; size 3; opacity 55)

As you can see it gives it just a little extra. Nothing major but I can rotate the item and keep everything looking great. But, note: on backgrounds, when I'm creating I do keep the light source in mind but rotating isn't going to change things much. With a bead or a metal object, or even a ribbon, the light source is MUCH more important. It just can't be rotated without thought. If you flip a bead upside down, not paying attention to the shadow, it's going to look strange. The little gleam might be on the bottom. Opposite of the rest of your layout's perceived light source. There is a way to change the rotation of these items. Just pay attention to the shadow. I've found with a horizontal string of beads, if I rotate anywhere to 90 degrees counterclockwise, the shadow still looks realistic and the gleam still works. That's enough play, if you are creative, to position anything just the way you want!

When I created these flowers, I had in mind those glue pop dots that give LOTS of height to an element. Lots! Take a look at the EXTREME shadow I applied to the third example. (Photoshop settings: distance, 17; size 21; opacity 70) That's A LOT of shadow! It really pops clear off the page. And to give it a bit more realism, I put the shadow on it's own layer and warped it just a bit. If an element is that high off the page, it usually isn't completely flat and straight. So by warping it just a bit, it looks even more real. But that's only for paper-style layouts or placement of paper-style elements. What if you want to add a graphic touch? Well, in the fourth example I got a little creative. I selected the flower, made the selection just a pixel of two less, feathered a bit, reversed and deleted. That got rid of the shadow and made the flower blend a bit into the background. Then I tried a few blending modes, lowered the opacity, and viola', it's no longer a paper-style element but a beautiful graphic element. You could layer it on another background, a photo, etc. It becomes PART of the page not something added on top.

SO, one element with a standard shadow. The options on what you want it to look like are really up to you!! You can take it as it is, add a bit to up the realism, go extreme, or go totally graphic! Fantastic versatility for your layouts! You can change the look with just a few clicks! Think of how you can create new looks *just* by changing the shadow!

Bethy's Tutorials: Repetition

2008-05-01T09:08:00.000-04:00

Repetition: The act of repeating; a doing or saying again; iteration

As I was researching and putting together this tutorial, I realized that by repeating items or shapes in a layout it unifies a layout . . . emphasizes our theme. And second, it ties together the other concepts we’ve looked at as well! Contrast and Alignment come into play when we talk about repetition!

Repetition . . . . we love knowing what’s coming next. Sure, we all love surprises, but a jarring surprise makes the artistic eye want to go back and explore what’s different. It breaks the flow. (important point here . . . if you are going to break the rule of repetition, make sure the jarring interruption is your focal point!)

The repetition in the layout can be photo series, a shape, element choices, and even words. When you are putting together your layout and it doesn’t feel like it flows, like it fits together, look at the shape of your pieces. Do they fit together? Are you using angles and circles, or swirls and harsh edges? Are the piece choices scattered? Do they fit the theme of the layout? Do you want edgy and fresh or soft and romantic? Think about the emotion of the shapes you choose size and then repeat those shapes to emphasize the emotion you want.

This sounds complicated. Everything has to be round in a layout?? But think about a romantic layout with flowers . . . aren’t the flowers basically round? Not exactly but pretty much . . . certainly not enough NOT round to be contrast. Rounded corners on your mats would help emphasize the emotion of that shape. Looking for a harder edge? Then try straight edges and angles . . . elements that continue the theme.

Another way to look at it . . . if you’re creating a soft, romantic layout, lots of hard edges might not work as well as rounded corners. Pieces of all kinds of shapes just doesn’t work. (This is where we can remember contrast.) Let’s say you have rounded corners on everything, if you put in your focal point with a square edge, it might help bring more attention to it. So, the repetition of the soft, rounded corners would help emphasize the piece that does NOT have the rounded edge!

I struggled finding bad examples of repetition. It can be a bunch of photos of the same theme that are all different sizes or using lots of different shapes without pulling them together in some cohesive way. Photos that are matted differently. Font work that doesn’t have a point of repetition to pull it together . . . and, remember last challenge, the point of repetition could be that right alignment! That gives our eye a nice repetitive place to look. (see how these all work together!)

Anyway, here are some good examples! I’ve been saving this layout just for this challenge! It’s a perfect example of repetition of photos with the exceptions making great focal points. The3chicken’s fandango's baby he. You can see the nice lines, the repetition of shapes and the great break in the repetition. Just a wonderful composition! This is one of my favorite all-time layouts!

Here’s one by Meg. You can see the repetition of the photos as circles but you can also see the big circle used as a mat. She continues the circle theme and that gives the layout a cohesive feel. She has lots of different photos but they all fit together.

Here’s one by me. Now, I’m not using this one as an example of using lots of photos (as that seems to be the focus of what I’m talking about) but as an example of the repetition of the rounded corner shape. The repetition of the rounded corner is what pulls this layout together that is filled with so many different photos and colors.

Here’s one by Rene' Bross. She noticed the circle in her photo and pulled that shape into the layout beautifully. The circle is repeated through the layout emphasizing that great photo and making it unequivocally the focal point.

Here’s another one of my favorites: vallie’s Witching Hour Magic. There’s a circle feeling all though it. The moon, the framing, even the curve of her head to her arm. It’s very rounded feeling and that makes it feel like it belongs together. The repetition of the shapes, through framing, and the photo make it feel like a piece that belongs together.

Here’s an example of repetition in journaling. It’s not one of my favorite layout designs but I like the journaling! By repeating the phrase “just yesterday” I’m emphasizing the feeling I’m trying to portray. Repetition in journaling can be very catchy, easy to read, and fun.

Here are three more examples of repetition that I found that I thought worked really well. First is Joannknnrd’s enjoy beach girl. It has great gallery appeal. Then two by Ann. Her Shabby Chic layout here has some nice repetition that work well. Here’s another of Ann's, endurance, that I liked. There’s something about the shape and the placement that show’s a strong sense of repetition that ties the layout together.

Now, go see what you can do keeping the concept of repetition in mind! But remember the Golden Rule . . . if you like the layout, LEAVE IT ALONE! If it doesn’t feel right to you, think through the concepts and see if tweaking or adjusting something according to the concepts, will help. And go through your gallery with a new critical eye. Being able to articulate what DOES work and what does NOT work in your own work, will make many of these concepts second nature. Not something that slows down your creative process but enhances it!

(you can click on most of the layouts for full credits)

Digital Scrapbook Tutorials!

2008-05-01T08:55:00.008-04:00

Here are a few Digital Scrapbook Tutorial I've put together. They are mainly about design or general photoshop tips. I tried to give examples for most of them, as that's how I learn best.

As I add more, I'll expand the list. And if there's something you'd like to see, let me know. If I can, I'll add it!

Alignment
Color Tip for Digital-Scrapbook Designers
Contrast
Facebook Privacy Settings
Focal Point
Frames and Paths in Photoshop
Journaling As An Artistic Element (parts 1, 2, and 3)
Keeping Up with the Blogs
Masks and Selective Coloring
Photoshop Saves the Day! (adjustment levels and layer modes)
Repetition
Scalloped Edged Frame
Shadow Power (shadows on their own layer)
Shadows, Basic Info
Sticker-ize an Element (with freebie!)
Text on a Path
Word Art Tips (with freebie!)

Enjoy the tutorials and let me know if you find them useful, see any mistakes, or have any ideas or suggestions! Thanks.

Bethy's Tutorials: Alignment

2008-04-09T10:10:00.002-04:00

This was a tutorial I first introduced at another site and I'm now putting them into my blog to keep them easy to find!

Note: The concepts we're talking about in these tutorials are not hard and fast rules! Remember not to worry as you put together your layout if you are following the “rules.” These concepts are to help you when you are looking at your layout and aren’t happy with it. You can run through this rule and other design rules and see if tweaking anything might help! The final judge of any layout is you if you are happy, then don’t worry about any of these!!

Alignment plays a big part in giving the viewer a chance to really absorb a layout. When there is no thought given to alignment, a layout can look jumbled and the viewer will feel like they don’t know where to look or what’s important.

Alignment is important in font work and photo/element alignment. (at least that’s the two pieces will be talking about)

For fonts . . . for most times, right or left alignment in your journaling is the strongest. We all like the symmetrical feel of centered text but, visually, it’s the hardest to read and doesn’t give a strong line anywhere. Now, there are times it works, but most of the time you want to lean towards right, left, or even both sides alignment.

Here are two examples from our last challenge on contrast. These are by sayo_c. She did a fantastic job of some fun font work with good contrast. But compare the first and last one. The first one, while fun, looks a bit jumbled. When she aligned the right side, the emphasis on the fonts really shines!

Here’s one I did that is similar I aligned the right side and made the spacing between the lines the same. The viewer has a sense of stability even while reading all of our crazy fonts!

(credits: MeeMaw by Elizabeth Weaver)

Here’s some examples of photo alignment. The first one I did was ok. But the spacing on the photos wasn’t even and the top and bottom weren’t working together. Once I lined them up exactly, and then using BIG contrast for the title (REALLY big), the layout worked better!

Ok . . . some other examples . . . (and, please, I’m NOT picking on you if I use it as a don’t-do-this example! LOL) MommyPanda had this one for her first round entry in the NKOTB contest. It’s a cute layout with lots of fun details. But those details are scattered all over the page. It’s hard for us to see them all as we are concentrating on trying to find them first! An alignment for the title and the photos would help us see the whole picture. Like . . . lining up those important people along the bottom . . . title on top. They don’t have to be in a straight line but all together so we can see what’s important.

Then look at this one by her. There’s some great alignment here . . . from the elements at the top, to the columns of journaling. It’s easy to look at and see what we should be reading.

Here’s a good example by Ann (the3chickens) of a layout FILLED with elements and nothing seems to be aligned. But it works . . . why? Because it DOES have an alignment along the bottom. She has everything aligned along the ribbon stretched across the bottom. It’s not lined up . . . but centered and weighted along one line. That is an alignment that gives this layout, filled with layers, a line that makes us feel centered.

Ok, Nancy’s first Bootcamp layout. (picking on a bootcamp entry so that’s a bit unfair but she did say I could!) Can you see how NOT having the photos aligned or the same size . . . no stability to it, doesn’t show off her cute grandkids as well as it could??

Then see this one she did for another challenge. The angles are aligned with the journaling strips and the photo give this a very strong line!

Cindy's (lovedigiscrapin) layout. Fantastic alignment. In fact, I still remember the first layout I saw from her . . . her style is a great one for studying alignment.

Next, is a layout by nancyr. (and I’m picking on her very first layout so that’s not really fair!) Well, this layout has great tilt for contrast and nice colors for contrast . . . but here’s where we can combine the concepts of contrast AND alignment. If you have different size photos and lots of colors then it becomes EXTRA important to align things cleanly or understandably. If these photos were all the same size, and matted the same, then you can throw some great tilt in there. But when you have different sizes and colors, then alignment becomes more important.

Let’s see how far she’s come . . . check out this one she did for DSU290 . . . lots of colors, different size photos . . . but FANTASTIC alignment so it pulls it all together.

Here’s one of mine. Cute photo but nothing lines up . . . I tried but the text is all over the place. It makes it hard to see what I should be looking at.

(elements by Tina Chambers, Meryl Bartho, and Lauren Bavin)

Here’s one of my favorite scrappers, Meg. What great lines in this. Each line ends and starts at the same point. But they have different shapes and elements. But the echo of the straight line gives the eye a great line.

SOO, alignment is important in fonts and in photo/element alignment. Your challenge is to think about these ideas and see what you can come up with! Or study your gallery. Find one that definitely does NOT follow the rules of alignment and re-do it! Just keep in mind that your eye is the most important one to please.

(and go to your library and check out "The Non-Designers Design Book" by Robin Williams . . . lots of great information there that translates to scrapping quite easily!)

(you can click on most of the layouts above for full list of credits)

Bethy's Tutorials: Contrast

2008-04-06T13:34:00.005-04:00

This was a tutorial I first introduced at another site and I'm now putting them into my blog to keep them easy to find!

The concept for today is contrast. It sounds easy enough but it's one that scrapbookers often miss. Here are just four different ways contrast can influence a layout . . .font work, angles, color, and photos.

Contrast gives a layout POP, gives it movement, and makes it interesting. Without contrast, a layout often feels flat. The key is to be bold! If two items are different, make it known!! Don't by shy with contrast!

Ok, let’s get started!

First, font work. Don't have one font just a smidge smaller than the other or use similar fonts together. Make the difference obvious! Use a HUGE swirly font with a small serif.

Here are some examples of what I mean on bad font work. This is an early one of mine. I chose two fonts that, while not the same, aren't BOLD enough in their difference. Just making one really big or fading it isn't enough.

Here's one I do like: Meg's Many Man. The softness of the handwriting font she chose is off-set by the big bold label font! It's a beautiful contrast.

Most of the time, you only want 2 or 3 fonts on a layout. And make them different! Fonts that aren’t the same yet aren’t different enough actually causes conflict. It’s like they are fighting to see who's in charge. Now, choose a HUGE swirly font for your main idea and balance it with a clean font, and they will work together.

Font work is a big concept to understand so study ones that work for you and ask questions! (oh, and Tina's word art class!!)

Next, angles! Don't tilt one photo a tiny bit to the left or the right . . . make it look purposeful . . . that you MEANT to do it not that it was just a bit off-kilter. A small increment makes things look crooked. A big one . . . well, you MEANT to do that! That gives it movement and energy.

Here's a great one I found in Bocca's gallery. The tilts are bold and dynamic. It echoes the energy of the layout in a great way!

Here's one that isn't working for me . . . although I like the layout the subtle tilt of just the photo makes it look like a mistake. I think it would look cleaner if I had kept the photo straight OR I could've funk-ed it up a bit by adding another mat and tilting it as well. (we'll be talking a bit more about this concept in another tutorial)

(elements by Elizabeth Weaver and Tina Chambers)

Third, color. If you use a mainly monochromatic kit, add just a touch of bright color and watch the layout just POP! A slight bit of red in this layout by Pam (donut) gives my very monochromatic kit, a dramatic feel!

Color is a big subject. If you are interested in color theory, here are a few links you can look at. For this lesson, we’re looking at ways to make a layout pop with contrast. Using a highlight color in key areas will draw the eye there and give the layout some more zing.

Explanation of the color wheel and color harmony. Also sections on color and emotion.
Definitions including tints and shades, warm and cool colors.
Here’s an interesting site using the color wheel. You can see contrast, triad, tetrad, analogic schemes in action!

And last, photo size. Let us know what photo is the subject of the layout. Don't make us guess! Give the most important one overwhelming importance!! Let's take this very early layout of mine. (I'm SO blushing that I'm even pointing these out to all of you!).

This layout simply doesn't work for me. (and this is the after version! Yikes!) The photos are the same size and look flat. Now, look at this layout of mine. Again, 2 photos of the same size yet this layout DOES work. Why? Angles give the layout movement, color gives it contrast, the font work is interesting.

Now, remember one important thing . . . art IS subjective. There are no hard and fast rules. These are just guidelines that can help you. When a layout isn't working for me, I work through some of the standard design rules and see if I'm either following the rule or breaking it in a BIG way. (again, contrast, if you're going to break the rule . . . make it KNOWN you're breaking it!!) But what works for me might not work for you. If, in the end, YOU like the layout, then that is what is important. You are preserving a memory for you and your family. Adhering to rules that don't work for your layout doesn't make sense. But knowing them, can help you when your stuck or not happy with the way a layout is going!

I'm getting a lot of these general concepts from The Non-Designers Design Book by Robin Williams. I read it several years ago and found it to be a great resource with fantastic examples! I would recommend everyone check it out of the library!!

(you can click on most of the layouts for a full list of credits)