A+ Designs

LOTW

2012-02-15T08:06:00.000-08:00

This one caught my eye:

By CAScrappingGirl

Created with the new Never Let Me Go

Never Let Me Go Elements
Never Let Me Go Papers

Challenge Tuesday: Template Turning

2012-02-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

Do you like to use templates? Have you ever considered turning a template, flipping it, or altering it? I have done all of that. Here is an example.

I used a template, the bottom right, from How Sweet It Is.

available at Gotta Pixel

Not only did I rotate the template, but I altered the title and paper pieces next to the title spot.

How Sweet It Is available at Gotta Pixel

Are you ready for a challenge? Create a layout with A+ Designs products, using a template you have altered in at least one way. Link us up to your layout in the comments below for a chance at a little prize. Layouts due by Sunday, February 19.

Happy scrapping!

It's GAB time at SBB

2012-02-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

It's time for the GAB at SBB!! This month, Mel has out done herself adding stacked papers and frames and splats!!! This is awesome. Remember, these individual parts are all priced at

$1.00 during GAB and then the kit goes to regular price, so you want to grab it now.

http://scrapbookbytes.com/store/digital-scrapbooking-supplies/APD_NeverLetmeGo_SP.htm

http://scrapbookbytes.com/store/digital-scrapbooking-supplies/APD_NeverLetMeGo_EP.htm

Here are stunning layouts from our great CT

A+ Designs Valentine Day Sale

2012-02-12T08:59:00.000-08:00

Save 40% off of A+ Designs at Gotta Pixel and Scrapbook Bytes

That Loving Feeling released at GP

2012-02-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

Mel has a new kit for you. "That Loving Feeling" is the GGI at Gotta Pixel. Each part is only $1 for a limited time! Check out the beautfiul papers, elements and the worn papers. (Those are my fav!)

Here are wonderful layouts from our talented CT

And your freebie frame from Elly Mae:

http://www.4shared.com/zip/5eZeYEaC/EllyMae_TLF_clusteframe.html

LOTW

2012-02-08T08:00:00.000-08:00

Created by wtunison

This layout jumped out at me from the gallery - great job! Such a fun layout.

Created using This Kiss kit

Tutorial: Altering Papers with Gradient Tool

2012-02-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

Here's a fun technique you can use to create new digital papers.

Open two papers and layer one on top of the other. It would be a good idea to rename your document using File>Save As at this point to make sure you don't copy over your original paper.

Click on the bottom layer in the Layers Palette to make it active, then click on the New Layer icon at the bottom of that palette, circled in red in the image below.

Now you will have an empty layer between your two papers.

Click on the Gradient Tool, fourth one up from the color chips, circled in the image below.

In the Gradient Tool Options Bar at the top of the workspace, click on the first down arrow to access the gradient choices. Choose the second one, titled "Foreground to Transparent." The square images indicate various types of gradients you can choose. I'm using the first, Linear Gradient. You can adjust the Opacity and experiment with a few other options too.

Making sure your blank layer is still the active (highlighted layer), click anywhere on your document, hold, and drag straight or at an angle. The length and angle you drag determine the appearance of your gradient. You can also drag multiple times.

Here is how my Layers Palette looks after I've drawn several gradients from points around the edge toward the focal point where I plan to place my photo. The color of your gradient will be that of your foreground color chip, but it isn't important because of the next step.

Now clip the top paper to the gradient layer. I use the keyboard shortcut: making sure the top paper is active, type Control/Command-G. A small arrow appears to the left of the top paper indicating it is clipped to the gradient layer below, and the effect is visible in my document.

Here is my finished layout using my new paper that blends two papers from A+ Designs' kit, Heaven Scent.

LOTW

2012-02-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

I chose two this week:

Created by Angelclaud and was also nominated LOTD at Gottapixel for 1/31/12

Created by penkitten

Such beautiful layouts by very talented artists.
Both layouts were created using the newly released This Kiss kit.

Available at:
Gottapixel.com
Scrapbookbytes.com

Images are linked - stop by and leave them some love!!!

And here is a freebie paper stack created with this kit:

Click HERE to download

Tutorial: Copying Layer Styles

2012-01-31T06:00:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite tricks in Photoshop Elements makes applying layer styles easier. For a long time I shadowed each layer one at a time. Then I learned that you can copy and paste layer styles! Here's how to do it.

1. Apply a Layer Style to one of the layers. I started with one of my paper strips. If you are not sure where to find the Layer Styles, they are in the Effects Palette. You can see here I am about to apply the Low Shadow style. There are many other styles, such as bevels, accessible via that drop down box.

To apply your chosen Layer Style double click on it, or click the Apply button near the bottom of the Effects Palette.

2. Default layer styles are rarely good for digi-scrapping. To edit a layer style, double click on the fx that follows the layer name in the Layers palette, circled in the screen shot below.

When you double click on the fx, you will get the Styles Settings dialogue box, where you can edit not only shadow, but also lighting angle, glow, bevel, and stroke. This is how you customize your layer styles. Shadowing is a big topic, for other tutorials, but basically the closer the object is to the background, the lower the shadow. For paper I often make the size and distance both 9 px and I like to reduce the opacity to 65%. In the screen shot, you can see the paper to which I'm applying the shadow.

3. Now it's time for the trick. Instead of repeating the above process for each layer of my layout, just copy the layer style from the layer just shadowed, and paste it on all the other layers you want to have the same settings. To do this, right click on the layer with the style you want to copy and choose Copy Layer Style from the pop out menu. Make sure to click on the layer, not the fx icon.

Then select all the layers which should have the same layer style. To select multiple layers, hold down the Control/Command key while clicking. Right click on one of the selected layers and click Paste Layer Style.

Here is my finished layout using the collab Heaven Sent, which reminded me of mint chip ice cream.

Heaven Sent is available at Scrapbookbytes and Gotta Pixel

I hope you find this as useful as I have. It's not just for shadowing either. Sometimes I apply bevels or other layer styles to objects, such as alphas, and then copy and paste the style to another element on my page. Sometimes I even do this if the elements will just have slightly different shadow styles, because it's easier to edit slightly than start from the default shadow.

Monday Reflections and a super deal!

2012-01-30T13:28:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! Mel here to say a big, giant hello! I can't believe it's almost February! It sure does seem the older I get, the fast time goes by. I'll have whiplash by the time I'm 45! hehehehe

This month I've had lots of goodies in the store. I've had so much fun creating them AND making some templates. I use to make templates a lot but I stopped for no reason. Check out the ones I've put in out February. They are in PSD, JPG, and TIFF files. February is almost here and I've got lots of goodies planned for you again! So keep your eyes peeled!

I'd like to offer you guys a special coupon. If you put $30 dollars of my products in your cart, you can use this $20 coupon code and save big time! That means you get thirty dollars worth of stuff for only ten bucks!

Just use the code 20off30 at either of my stores: Gotta Pixel or Scrapbookbytes. This is a limited time only, so don't miss out!

This Kiss released!

2012-01-28T16:13:00.000-08:00

Mel has outdone herself again with the release of This Kiss!

Here is some inspiration from the amazing CT Team!

Stop in and check it out at
GottaPixel.com
Scrapbookbytes.com

Here is a freebie for you from Kathy

http://www.4shared.com/zip/1HFiO4J6/baby_baby_oh_cluster_frame.html

Sneak Peek 1-28

2012-01-27T06:35:00.000-08:00

Available at Scrapbook Bytes "and" Gotta Pixel :)

(my son says I just don't know how to spell)

LOTW

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

I saw this beautiful layout in the gallery & just had to show you.

Created by penkitten

What a gorgeous Christmas layout!

Created using Christmas Tide kit.This is the perfect kit to scrap all those photos you took over the holiday season!

How Sweet it is Freebie!

2012-01-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

Have you seen this kit? It's beautiful! In shades of pretty pinks and blues.. I just love it!
You can find it HERE or HERE
Guess what?! I have a freebie for you all using this beautiful kit!:)

Here is the freebie:

DOWNLOAD HERE

(or click image)

Enjoy~

Brooklyn

New Kit- How Sweet it is

2012-01-21T05:20:00.000-08:00

Mel has another wonderful kit for you. Her mojo is in high gear. Don't you just love the colors? How Sweet it Is is such a bright and cherry kit with Mel's signature bling and a touch of romaticism. You can get it at Scrapbok Bytes and Gotta Pixel

Our CT has awesome layouts for you!

Here is a freebie for you by Elly Mae

http://www.4shared.com/zip/e86OZvgn/EllyMae_HowSweetItIs_cluster2.html

Sneak Peek 1-21

2012-01-20T06:32:00.000-08:00

LOTW

2012-01-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

Wow - just looking in the gallery, all I can say is gorgeous!
There have been some awesome new releases in the past week and the layouts are outstanding, so I'll show you a few.
First, this beautiful 2 page layout was completed with the Heaven Sent kit:

Created by penkitten

This one was created with Love is a Many Splendored Thing:

Created by wtunison

This one created with Baby Baby OH!

Created by wtunison

And this one created using a combination of
Love is a Many Splendored Thing & Baby Baby OH!

Created by Hybridgal

Here are the previews of the kits used in the above layouts:
Heaven Sent

Love is a Many Splendored Thing

Baby Baby OH!

Have a great day!

Don't Miss GGI at Gotta Pixel and a freebie!

2012-01-17T02:00:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to remind everyone that Mel created TWO, yes TWO kits for the GGI event at Gotta Pixel. Don't forget each part is only $1.00, but only until Tuesday, January 17th.

Love is a Many Splendored Thing

Baby, Baby Oh!

Here is a little freebie that I created using the Baby Baby OH! portions. Enjoy!

http://www.mediafire.com/?h1cf48ymrhps4fc

Duo-licious Release and a freebie

2012-01-16T08:19:00.000-08:00

The Duo-licious girls are at it again! Their latest is Heaven Sent. You can get it here.

Here is inspiration from out CT:

Sharon

Wendy

Kristin

Angela

Brooklyn

M'Lee

Jessica

Here is a freebie for you as well!!

http://www.box.com/s/cdf0vfa99tt8j6p7c83r

Stay tuned....Mel has another new release this coming weekend and another newsletter and freebies! Keep an eye our for our wonderful tutorials coming soon!!!

It's GGI time at Gotta Pixel!!! New Release and freebie!

2012-01-14T00:20:00.000-08:00

Yay- it's GGI time at GP. Which of course to you means savings and 2 kits instead of one! When Mel looked at the color swatch, she decided one kit wasn't enough, so lucky for you...she has two!!!! Don't forget that each part is only $1 for a limited time only! You also want to make sure you get our newsletter, because we will have another freebie there!! Woo Hoo.

Love is a Many Splendored Thing

Baby Baby Oh

Here are some layouts from our super talented team members:

http://www.4shared.com/zip/1HFiO4J6/Baby_baby_Oh_cluster_frame.html

LOTW

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

Beautiful, beautiful stuff... just take a look at A+ Designs galleries:
Gottapixel.com
Scrapbookbytes.com

This week I chose a layout created with the newly released
You Are My Sunshine (GAB)

by LivyBug

Just look at all the detail in this layout.
Love what she did with the worn papers, it's one of those, "Now why didn't I think of that?" moments.
Stop by and leave her some love.

Don't forget to post your layouts to A+ Designs gallery, we love to see them!

It's GAB time at Scrapbook Bytes!!!!

2012-01-09T02:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks right. This is our favorite time of the month isn't it? More goodies to play with! This month, the color pallette is awesome and Mel has another great kit for you!!

You are my Sunshine:

Here is what our awesome team has come up with!!

Here is a freebie for you as well

http://www.4shared.com/zip/ZtFljv4c/APD_clustered_frame.html

Stay Tuned....We have more freebies coming your way, so be sure to check back!

Sneak Peek GAB

2012-01-06T19:03:00.000-08:00

The first monday of every month is an exciting day at Scrapbook Bytes- it's Grab a Byte!

This month's palette is beautiful- I can't wait to see what the designers have created. The packs from A+ Designs will give you a great array of elements and papers to make gorgeous layouts. Mel will be offering a mini kit, Alphas, and worn papers. Make sure to swing by the store on Monday to pick up the minis for a great price!

They are only available for a limited time and then the prices go up and they may be repackaged or retired. You don't want to miss this deal.

LOTW

2012-01-04T08:00:00.000-08:00

Well, now that Christmas is over & the New Year has swept us away, hopefully there is time in your calendar to start scrapping all those photos you snapped during the holidays.
This is a great kit to get that done with:

Christmas Tide a collaboration kit by A+ Designs & Laura Burger

by Sharon Bertolino

by Sagediva2

And I just love this one, it really shows off everything that's in this kit, not to mention the adorable picture:

by scrapper@heart

Check out all of A+ Designs' product:
Gottapixel.com
Scrapbookbytes.com

LOTW

2011-12-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone is getting ready for the New Year! Hard to believe that 2011 is drawing to a close, it seems to go by faster every year.
I found this layout in the gallery & just love it.
Created by our own SharonBertolino using a kit called It's in the Air.
I love the colors together & the cluster is amazing!
Makes me want to go on a cruise even more.

Find this kit HERE!

I love showing off these great layouts because there are just times that the previews don't do a kit justice. It is with all your great layouts that really show off what is in the kit. Please remember to post your layouts in A+ Designs galleries so we can all see how you used her kits.

Check out her stores here:
Gottapixel.com
Scrapbookbytes.com

A+ Designs After Christmas Sale- 60% off!!

2011-12-26T13:50:00.000-08:00

Gotta Pixel

Scrapbook Bytes

Win a Free Kit at my Facebook Page

2011-12-22T15:42:00.000-08:00

In celebration of my new facebook page, Mel (A+ Designs) has been so generous to offer a free kit from her store.

Here's what you need to do:

1. Browse through her store at Scrapbook-Bytes or Gotta Pixel and choose 1 regular kit (no CUs, collaborations, bundle, or template please) that you absolutely must have.

2. Go to my facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/Angelclaud.ArtRoom and "like".

3. Post the link to the kit here before the end of 2011.

I'll choose a lucky winner randomly to receive the kit that you've chosen.

That's it! Pretty simple right?

A Winter Freebie

2011-12-15T23:00:00.000-08:00

Have you seen the great deals available right now from A+Designs? Over at Scrapbook Bytes Grab a Byte is going on- each piece is only $1.

Over at Gotta Pixel Snow Days & Co is also on sale, again each piece is $1.

I made a festive freebie for you today- here is a little "Winter Frost"

Click on image to download

I'd love to hear what you think and see what you create!

LOTW

2011-12-15T07:32:00.000-08:00

Oops! Did anyone else miss Wednesday? It seems my week is going by super fast and I thought about the blog several times yesterday, but.... well, it's Thursday now.
Here is a layout that stood out to me in A+ Designs gallery:

Maybe this one stands out because I have a new little one too (well 4 months - that's still new, right). I love her clusters and what an adorable photo.
Created by kathymjackson

Created using the new Snow & Co Co kit
Available at Gottapixel.com only $1 each piece right now.

A "Wonderful" new release

2011-12-12T05:00:00.000-08:00

Mel has another new release- yay! It's Everthing Wonderful and it is the GAB at SBB. You are going to love this one! There are so many Christmas and snow kits out there, so she has a great soft, shimmery and romatic kit for you! The best part is, during the GAB, you can get each part for $1.00!! Awesome deal isn't it? Check this out:

Sneak Peek of Mel's latest kit coming to SBB

2011-12-11T02:00:00.000-08:00

It's that time again- the always fun and money saving Grab a Byte at Scrapbook Bytes. Isn't this so pretty? I love the colors this month!

The Grab a Byte is available on Monday, Dec. 12.- Dec. 18

New Release ~ Snow Days & Co Co

2011-12-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

Yay! It's finally the weekend! Are you ready for Mel's new releases?

Find them in A+ Designs' shop at Gotta Pixel.

Snow Days & Co Co Worn Pack

Snow Days & Co Co Artistic Smears

Snow Days & Co Co Elements

Snow Days & Co Co Papers

Here is some inspiration from the creative team:

Layout by Wendy

Layout by Amy Jo

Layout by Jessica

Layout by Kathy

Layout by Kristin

Layout by Mel

Layout by Sharon

Layout by Jan

Layout by Olivia

Wow! The team has made some gorgeous layouts for this week's release!

And now, here is your promised freebie from yesterday's post:

Download Here

Happy Scrapping!

Olivia

Sneak Peek for 12/10 Release

2011-12-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

It's Friday! Guess what that means! Yes, yes, almost the weekend, but also a new sneak peek!

Check out the sneak peek for Mel's GGI release tomorrow!

Be watching the blog tomorrow, there may just be a freebie in the new release post!!

Happy Scrapping!

Olivia

LOTW & a freebie

2011-12-07T05:21:00.000-08:00

Happy Wednesday!
I hope everyone is getting some time to relax in this busy time of year.

This layout jumped out at me when I looked in A+ Designs gallery.
I love the colors all together, the photos are gorgeous and the clustering is beautiful.
What a great job IntenseMagic!

IntenseMagic used the new kit Someone Like You

And I saw in the store it is 40% off, so hurry and grab it HERE.

And here is a freebie, created by Wendy Tunison

Click HERE or the image to download.

And don't forget to add your layouts to A+ Designs gallery - I look every week to chose 1 (or more) that stands out.

New Release- Someone like you

2011-12-04T16:02:00.000-08:00

A + Designs has a great new kit out. "Someone like you" This kit is amazing! It has beautiful colors, lace and of course bling! It has 10 patterned papers. 6 solid papers, 1 lowercase individually cut alpha and 30 gorgeous elements. It is perfect for all kinds of layouts, as you can see from our talented Design Team. You can get this kit at Gotta Pixel and Scrapbook Bytes.

Olivia

Angela

Kristin

Christi

Amy Jo

Wendy

Jan

Kathy

Here is a freebie cluster frame for you too!

http://www.4shared.com/file/Ws8kH_SP/Clustered_frame_preview.html

LOTW

2011-11-30T08:40:00.000-08:00

Just take a look at this - I can't even begin to describe it.....

Created by scrapper@heart

This layout was created with the gorgeous Christmas Tide collaboration kit:

Collaboration kit by A+ Designs and Laura Burger.
Find it HERE.

Winner of the Template Challenge!

2011-11-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday everyone!

I hope your have all enjoyed your Thanksgiving festivities last week! :)

I hosted a Template Challenge last Monday and here is the winner!

Congrats Bekki! She won a $5 coupon to Mel's store at Gotta Pixel.

Happy Thanksgiving ~ bekfek ~ Using It's in the Air

I love the the clustering!! :) The colors are beautiful with the sepia pic.

Be sure to leave her some love in the gallery.

Happy Scrapping!

Olivia

PS: Be watching for a PM with your coupon, Bekki! :)

Black Friday SALE and FREEBIE!!!

2011-11-25T00:01:00.000-08:00

Mel here bringing you a little freebie cluster frame from the latest DUO-licious kit dani and I made. I love these colors and had so much fun creating it.

Here's the layout I made with the cluster. Be sure to scroll down to the bottom to download the freebie.

Also, I'm having a 50% off sale at both Gotta Pixel and Scrapbook-bytes. Be sure to check out the great savings and new kits in the store!

Scrapbook-bytes is having a Blog Hop on Facebook with a ton of gorgeous freebies. You can start that HERE. Here's what my portion looks like.

Be sure to check out the Christmas collab I made with Laura Burger too!

Here's the DOWNLOAD for the cluster FREEbie I made for you using Renesmee!

This Much- free printable

2011-11-24T02:00:00.000-08:00

Today I wanted something for the kids to do while the grown ups are finishing Thanksgiving dinner, and while everyone is sitting down, but before we eat. I found this fun little card- I plan on sending a big envelope of them to my sister who can't make it home for Thanksgiving.

From Day in my Life via Pinterest

I made a page with the words "this much"

So, the kids will trace their hands on papers I printed out- I used Mel's Touch of Fall,

Go to Scrapbook Bytes

then fold up their strip and glue it in the hands. Everyone will need to write "I love you..." on the front and sign their name.

I think my sis will be so surprised to see these and I can't wait to hear from her.

You can download my page of "this much" strips with light grey lines for folding.

LOTW

2011-11-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

Have you seen this new kit - Renesmee:

Here are 2 layouts I absolutely love using this kit:

Created by LivyBug

Created by VanillaDesignz

Make sure you leave them some love.

And for stopping by to look here is a freebie:

Download HERE or click image.

Hope you have a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Olivia's Template Challenge

2011-11-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! It's Olivia and today I'm hosting a template challenge!

Information about the challenge: All you have to do is make a layout using the template and any kit from Mel's Scrapbook-Bytes or Gotta Pixel shops! You are allowed to flip, rotate or move parts of the template ~ they're meant to help you create, not keep you in a box. :)

So, here's your template:

Download: CLICK HERE

Here are some layouts from the creative team to help inspire you:

Layout by Olivia using Elegance Eve

Layout by Christi using Escape

Layout by Angela using Renesmee

Layout by Sharon using Just Another Romance

One lucky scrapper will win a coupon to Mel's store when they comment with a link to their layout by 11/27/2011!

Happy scrapping!
Olivia

Edit: Sorry for the download link not being available at first. I've updated the post and the download link now is below the preview. ~Olivia

Just Released- Christmas Tide

2011-11-17T04:43:00.000-08:00

Mel has teamed up with the lovely and talented Laura Burger to create a beautiful, shabby/chic christmas kit.

Christmas Tide is a wonderful collaboration where both ladies have really outdone themselves.

Here is some inspiration from the CT gals:

by Kristin

by Wendy

And as an early gift, here is a little freebie-

created by Dawn, leave her some love in the comments!

Click here or image to download

LOTW

2011-11-16T06:31:00.000-08:00

Well, maybe that should say Layouts.... I just couldn't decide this week, so I'm going to show you a few.
There were so many awesome layouts with the current Grab-A-Byte - Just Another Romance kit at Scrapbookbytes.com. I am so in love with this kit, the colors are amazing.

Check it out HERE.

Now to these amazing layouts!
Created by MLee

Created by CindyB3

Created by Angelclaud

Created by penkitten

And then if that wasn't enough, I found these made with the Mel's Escape Kit.

Created by gonewiththewind

Created by Christi

Pick up the Escape kit HERE

And don't forget to go grab the FREE Add-on in the DST Insider

So many great layouts in the gallery, please stop in and leave them some love.
All these talented ladies make my job of choosing very hard!
Great job!

Just Another Romance - Cluster Frame Freebie

2011-11-15T04:10:00.000-08:00

To celebrate the release of Just Another Romance, here is a cluster frame freebie for you all. Don't forget to grab the kit during Scrapbook Bytes' GAB week for a great price.

A+ Designs @ Scrapbook Bytes

Click on the image preview to download.

Just Another Romance releases at SBB

2011-11-13T21:56:00.000-08:00

Mel has done it again. She has released a beautiful GAB at Scrapbook Bytes. Just Another Romance has 30 beautiful elements, 10 papers, artistic smears, worn papers and an alpha! Perfect for your romantic or girly layouts. Right now each pack is only $1.00 for a limited time only...but hurry and grab them now!

Here is inspiration from our wonderful CT!

Touch of Fall is the GAB Gotta Pixel and freebies!!!

2011-11-12T09:00:00.000-08:00

Touch of Fall is here!

Do you still have some fall photos just waiting to be scrapped? Mel has the kit for you! With a wonderful blend of colors for fall or any layout, this kit is perfect. She has added awesome word art artistic smears that are so cute. You can get the elements, papers and bits and pieces each for $1.00 for a limited time at Gotta Pixel.

Our wonderful CT Layouts

We have some great freebies too for you!!!

http://www.4shared.com/file/I8Ewn8M2/EllyMae_ToF_bordercluster.html
http://www.4shared.com/file/qRoRWnCp/EllyMae_ToF_frameclusters.html

I hope you like these lovely freebies and would love if you would leave us a comment. We love to hear from you!

Stretching your Stash & a Thursday Freebie

2011-11-10T04:01:00.000-08:00

What do you do to stretch your stash? I know I like to see a kit in a new way and get more mileage out of it.

As I was working on organizing my photos, I found this one of my kids making their Gingerbread houses last year. Then I started to look for a Christmas themed kit- well, I just don't have that many and none of them were fitting my mood.

Then I saw Sweet American Pie! It's red and green, and not really traditional- which fit my mood at the time perfectly.

So maybe every piece of the kit won't work for a holiday layout, but mush of it does work.

Check it out and pick it up:

@ Scrapbook Bytes

@ Gotta Pixel

I also turned my page into a QP for you, it doesn't have to be for a christmas layout, just add your own title and journaling!

click image or here to download

What do you do to stretch your stash? I'd love to hear your tips- I'm always looking for a new technique.

DST - Insider

2011-11-09T10:00:00.000-08:00

In case you missed it, Mel is featured in the New to You section of the DST Insider.
Check it out HERE.

She is featuring her beautiful kit Escape & as a bonus there is a freebie Add-on.
So make sure you hop over there to check it out.

As an added bonus I created a template using the Escape kit.

Click the image above or HERE to download.
This kit is perfect for scrapping pictures of my little girl who is growing up way too fast.

LOTW

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

This one caught my eye this week.
I love the clustering, it is so well done & the shadowing really makes it pop.

Layout created by scrappyt
Make sure you stop & leave her some love.

Layout completed with Just Wanna Have Fun.

Have a great day & hope you picked up lots of great deals from DSD.

Don't Miss Out

2011-11-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

Oh man, my checkbook is hurting after all the shopping I did on Friday.
But, I don't want to miss out on any good deals. And I keep telling my husband, "But, I saved so much with all the sales!!"
I hope you don't miss out either & here is a reminder:

Gottapixel.com
Scrapbookbytes.com

And to celebrate this weekend I have two freebies for you.
I made these with A+ Designs Spooktacular kit. It is perfect for those Halloween photos that everyone just captured.

Download HERE or click on the image above.

Download HERE or click the image above.

Spooktacular Kit by A+ Designs

Insider Feature: New to You-A+ Designs

2011-11-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

Some great new for you, Mel is being featured in the November Issue of Digi-Shop Talk's Insider!

If you don't get the insider in your inbox every month, head over and pick this up, it's a great way to get inspiration, great deals and discover new designers.

This month A+ Designs is featured as a New to You Designer-

From the Insider:

New to You is the Insider’s column designed to help you discover designers you might not know. Every month we select a designer, create layouts from one of their kits and introduce you to their style. In addition, the designer provides a free add-on kit just for our readers. You never know, you might discover a new favorite or two!

The article features one of Mel's beautiful kits- Escape

Here is some gallery inspiration using Escape:

lynnirene

sehabets

The images are linked to the gallery so head over and leave them some love!

As a special treat, Mel also created an add-on to escape- you can pick it up at the end of the feature article.

So, what are you waiting for? Head on over to read a little about Mel, get some inspiration and a Freebie!

Hope your DSD has been a blast!

Gotta Pixel Blog Train

2011-11-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. Mel here bringing you my portion of GP's blog train. These colors are great and I think you are going to love what everyone has made for you. So hop on board and download this awesome collab!!!

You can download mine here: http://www.4shared.com/file/PUKtmq51/APD_SoSoPretty.html

Word Art World by Jennifer - www.wordartworld.blogspot.com
Laura Burger - www.designsbylauraburger.com
Mye DeLeon - http://myedeleon.com
Trixie Scraps Designs - http://blog.trixiescraps.com
Kristmess - http://kristmessdesigns.blogspot.com/
Laurie's Scraps & Designs - http://www.lauriesscraps.com
JennCK Designs - http://jennck.blogspot.com/
Girl Boy Girl Designs - http://girlboygirldesigns.com/wordpress/
Aprilisa Designs - http://aprilisadesigns.blogspot.com
Crisdam Designs - www.crisdamdesigns.com/blog
Armina Designs - http://arminadesigns.com/blog
CindyB - http://cindyb-scrappinlikecrazy.blogspot.com/
Jumpstart Designs - http://jumpstartdesigns.blogspot.com/
Connie Prince - www.connieprince.com
Lindsay Jane - http://lindsayjanedesigns.blogspot.com/
Bella Gypsy - http://bellagypsydesigns.blogspot.com
LorieM - http://digiscrapdesigns-by-lorie.blogspot.com/
Colie's Corner - http://www.coliescorner.blogspot.com/
Kathryn - http://kathrynsdigitaldesigns.blogspot.com/
A+ Designs - www.aplusdesigns.blogspot.com
Laitha Designs - http://laitha.com/site/?page_id=383
Lori - http://lwentkie.blogspot.com/
Chris - http://fmndesigns.blogspot.com/

DSD Activities 2011

2011-11-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

A+ Designs Schedule of Events

Digital Scrapbook Day

Check out what we've got for you this weekend- mark your calendars and don't miss all the fun!

Nov. 3th - Nov 6th A+ Designs 40% off @ Gotta Pixel & Scrapboook Bytes

Nov. 5th 4:00 pm EST Designer Chat at Scrapbook Bytes

Free Template, Freebies, and the chance to win $5 in the store

Nov. 4th Scavenger Hunt begins at Scrapbook Bytes

Get Freebies and the chance to win $5 in the store

DSD Sale

2011-11-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. Are you getting as excited about this weekend as I am? There are so many sales and games going on all throughout digi land this weekend. Mel is have a terrific sale starting today at Gotta Pixel and Scrapbook-Bytes. So run, don't walk and check out what fantastic goodies she has in her stores. Be sure to visit the blog again tomorrow to see a list of all the great events Mel will be taking part in.

What are you waiting for? Go visit Mel's stores :)

Gotta Pixel

Scrapbook Bytes

LOTW

2011-11-02T09:38:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful scenic view & a perfect kit to scrapbook these photos.
I love how she used the locket in the cluster.
Make sure you click on the layout to leave her some love.

Layout created by penkitten

Layout created using Harvesting Hope kit

I hope everyone is ready for Digital Scrapbook Day this weekend. My checkbook is ready & I can't wait to see all the sales.
Make sure you check back here to see what's happening. You never know what you'll miss.

Are you ready for DSD?

2011-11-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

What are you doing to get ready for Digital Scrapbook Day? Now is a great time to prep your computer and make sure you can make the most of your time on DSD.

A few things to think about doing:

Clean out your downloads folder
Check out your favorite stores and sites to see if they have a schedule of activities
Check your favorite Designer sites to see what they are doing to celebrate (sale, chat, speed scrap)
Make sure you have enough HD space for your purchases and freebie downloads
Plan your budget
Think about projects you need supplies for (Christmas cards, December daily album, etc)
Create wishlists in your favorite stores (this will save you time and reduce impulse buying)
Have a plan for backing up your new purchases
Plan dinner (maybe something in the crock-pot or some take-out?)

Do you have any tips or tricks you use on DSD? Any hints on getting ready?

Trick or Treat (Mostly Treats)

2011-10-31T06:30:00.000-07:00

I'm back with a couple more freebies from Harvesting Hope. I made a layout featuring my Grandma- I love the warm and vintage feel that the kit gave my layout-

I used one of Mel's templates for my layout- you can't go wrong with any of her wonderful templates.

I know I've said before, but I think it bears repeating, the quality of the papers and elements are always top notch- I scrap with other designers products from time to time, and there are times when I have to clean up jagged edges, or there are odd pixels that need to be deleted. I have never had to do that with kits from A+ Designs! Do you know how much time that saves me? I also love that each kit has unique elements, not just re-colored items that I've seen before.

Here are your treats for today:

click image to download

Have a great week!

Look what I found!

2011-10-29T13:51:00.000-07:00

I was looking through the store at Gotta Pixel the other day & look what I found:

What a great kit for all your ghouls & goblins or in my case a turtle & Simba.... I can't wait to create some costume layouts with this kit.
But, for now I did get a few minutes to create these 2 freebie frames for you.

Click on the image above or HERE to download.

Pick up this awesome Halloween kit at Gottapixel.com

Harvesting Hope Tag Cluster

2011-10-27T07:27:00.000-07:00

Have you checked out Harvesting Hope?

I had a chance to create with this beautiful kit, I'll show you what I created a little later, but first I wanted to let you know what's included in your purchase.

FREE with purchase - worn papers

10 papers
4 alphas
1 glitter acorn
1 felt squirrel
1 bling
1 bow
1 button
1 corn
6 flowers
1 flower vine
3 frames
1 heart wire
4 leaves
1 locket frame
1 ornamental wire
2 ribbons
1 rickrac
1 rose bud
2 stitches
1 string
1 swirl
1 vine

It's alot! and the variety gives so much to work with to create beautiful pages.

Have you seen this beautiful page? I love how the worn paper circle is used as a foundation for the cluster. Can you see the repetition of the elements? And how the layout forms a nice visual triangle? If you wants to try your hand at clustering, this is a wonderful layout to lift.

by Mlee- Layout linked to Gallery

Click on her layout to go leave her some love!

I created a couple of freebies for you, the first you'll get today, and come back on Halloween for a couple more treats!

Click image to download

See you on Monday- have a great weekend!

Thursday Freebie!

2011-10-26T22:39:00.000-07:00

My favorite part about thursday is how close it is to the weekend! I love weekends! So to celebrate the upcoming weekend, I have a freebie for you!

Download HERE

I made this little cluster freebie for you, using Harvesting Hope. This is one of my favorite kits this fall! It has been fabulous to work with and so versatile!

Here is a preview of this beautiful kit:

You can pick up this kit at either ScrapbookBytes or GottaPixel

LOTW

2011-10-26T05:11:00.000-07:00

This week's layout jumped out at me because of the pumpkin pictures.
It is my favorite time of year - FALL, I just wish it lasted longer before the cold sets in.
I keep telling myself that I need to get out & take some pictures of all the changing colors and of the interesting decorated yards.

Layout created by scrapglass71

Not only did I see the pumpkins, but on closer examination I saw lots that I liked. I loved the way she framed the circular photo with that glitter frame - perfect. I love the clustered with the string in the background of all the photos.
What a great layout to remember a cherished time.
Click on the image above to leave her some love.

This layout was created with the Harvesting Hope kit.

Have a great day!

Happy Monday!

2011-10-24T08:51:00.000-07:00

Well, you might not say that right now....
Maybe this will make it better.
I have 2 freebies for you today.
The first was also in the newsletter that arrived in my email box over the weekend. If you aren't signed up yet, you don't know what you could be missing.....

First here is a freebie by EllyMae with the Serenity kit:

Click on the image above or HERE to download.

And next is a freebie created by EllyMae with Harvesting Hope kit:

Click on the image above or HERE to download.

Check out these kits & all the other great products at A+ Designs stores:
Gottapixel.com
Scrapbookbytes.com

Hope that makes your Monday a little better!
Enjoy!

A little more Fall

2011-10-20T06:30:00.000-07:00

Remember how versatile I said that Fall Festival was? I had some time to make a fun little card for you.

Click image to go to the store

The papers I chose both had white backgrounds and I wanted to make the colors a little more subtle, so here is what I did:

Paper 6 Blend Mode Multiply opacity and fill 100%

new layer filled with b09f67 Mode Multiply opacity 43% and fill 100%

Paper 6 Blend Mode Normal opacity and fill 100%

Clip all three layers to the wavy paper

Paper 11 Blend Mode Multiply opacity and fill 100%

New background layer- fill with c4d8db Blend Mode Normal opacity and fill 100%

And now here is the card for you:

the download has the card and coordinating envelope on a letter sized sheet.

I left the tag blank so you can add your own sentiment.

Click image to download

LOTW & a freebie

2011-10-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

This layout really popped out at me from the galleries:

Designed by scrappyt

What beautiful layering & clustering.
Click on the layout above to leave her some love.

This layout was completed using the Serenity kit:

And here is a freebie for you created by me:

Click on the preview above or HERE to download.

I hope you enjoy!

Love those Layers!

2011-10-18T05:46:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago, I did a scrapping tip about adding layers and depth to your layout. I thought it would be fun, today, to scour the galleries at Gotta Pixel and ScrapbookBytes and showcase layouts that do this! Here is what I found (images are linked, so feel free to leave some love!):

I would love to see your layouts with layering! Link them in a comment here and I will come and leave ya some love! Have a great day and Scrap more!!!

What are your Fall Plans?

2011-10-13T06:30:00.000-07:00

What are your Fall Plans? County Fairs? Raking leaves? Apple picking? A little football? You can scrap all that and more with this fun little kit. I love the rich reds and the muted blue together. I'm looking forward to using the papers for some halloween layouts, a little shabby elegance for my "spooky" pages!

click here to pick up Fall Festival

I made a little photo cluster for you today. Have fun!!

Click image to download

When you pick up the kit, the row of tickets is all connected. If you'd like to make it seem torn, use your lasso tool, making sure your line is jagged like the tickets have been torn. I like to create a new layer via cut, then move the ticket to where you'd like it. Then you can merge the two layers or apply your shadow to each individually.

LOTW

2011-10-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

I love this layout by Angelclaud!

Maybe it's my love for animals or the bold, rich colors I'm not sure, but I just love this layout.
It was created with the new GAB kit called Harvesting Hope.
Right now you can purchase the pieces for only $1 each. Check them out below!

Harvesting Hope Elements

Harvesting Hope Papers

These are only 2 parts that are available, there is also and Alpha, Artistic Smears and Worn Papers. Check it all out here.

Stop in and pick up this great kit today!

New Release--GAB at ScrapBook Bytes

2011-10-10T05:24:00.000-07:00

Ramona here to share with you Mel's new gorgeous kit for the October Grab A Byte and SBB! I LOVED working with this kit! It has so many fabulous pieces to it and it makes it so fun to cluster with! And wait until you see some of the amazing layouts by the team! Wow! Tons of inspiration!! Each piece is linked, so click now and grab these quick!!

And here is some inspiration for you!

New Release- Just Wanna have fun

2011-10-09T08:48:00.001-07:00

Wow- what a week. First the GGI at GP and now another new kit!!!! Woo Hoo. Just Wanna Have fun is the perfect girly, girls night out or anytime kit. It is available at Gotta Pixel and Scrapbook Bytes!

Check out what our CT did!

New Release- the GGI at Gotta Pixel

2011-10-08T14:34:00.000-07:00

Mel has a new release today!! It is the GGI at Gotta Pixel-Serenity. I just love these colors and the wide variety of layouts the CT team created! Remember, for a limited time, each pack (elements, paper, artistic smears and alphabet) are only $1 each. So head on over to GP and grab them!! Each pack is linked to the product.

Here are the wonderful layouts from our CT

Sneak Peek- coming soon to SBB

2011-10-07T05:32:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peeks!

2011-10-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hi, Olivia here! This week Mel is releasing TWO kits to her stores! Yay! And you get an inside peek to what's coming!

First up Mel has a calm, cool kit for Gotta Grab It at Gotta Pixel:

(Sneak Peek by Sharon)

And next up she has a super cute kit releasing at Scrapbook-Bytes and Gotta Pixel:

(Sneak Peek by Olivia)

I hope you enjoyed getting a peek at what's coming tomorrow!
Happy Scrapping!
Olivia

LOTW

2011-10-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

Ok - so this week it was really hard. I have to show you these two layout because they both make me happy.

Created by ChristiC with Simply Irresitable kit.
I love the playfulness of this layout, it just makes me smile.

And this one is just too adorable, how could you not smile.

Created by Sagediva2 with Shine On You kit.
I love that face and the story behind it.

Click on the above images to leave them love.

Check out A+ Designs store here:
Gottapixel.com
Scrapbookbytes.com

Layering a layout

2011-10-04T07:47:00.000-07:00

Ramona here, one of the CT girls for Mel. I thought I would share a little tip that I use a lot to give depth to my layouts. I think that it is really important, with digital layouts, to make the photos pop and seem as if they are coming right off the page. In paper scrapping, it is easy to see the depth between a photo and the background paper, but not as easy with digital. We need to give it that texture and depth!

To start, let me show you what it looks like when I just slide a photo on my background paper:

It's quite flat, isn't it? Of course, a shadow would help, but if you add layers of paper, matting, frames, etc. you can really create some depth.

I usually start with any mats or frames that come in the kit to tuck under the photo, around the edges to give a little variety. I also create squares, rectangles and circles and nudge them underneath. This also gives me a chance to use many of the gorgeous papers that come in a kit. So, I may end up with something like this:

Even though I'm not done with the layout, see how it already starts to help the photo pop? From this point, I can now add all the elements and clusters I want.

Here is my final layout:

What are your favorite ways to layer and use papers and mats to help add pop to your layout?

For this layout, I used the darling kit, "Simply Irresistible" available at Scrapbook Bytes

Freebie!

2011-09-30T09:08:00.000-07:00

Hello! It's not too late to take advantage of my fabulous sale today ... and to inspire you even further, here's a FREEBIE layered paper by CT member, Jessica:

You can pick up the whole kit for 50% off, along with everything else in the A+Designs store at Gotta Pixel and Scrap-Book-Bytes!

50% off today only!!!

2011-09-30T07:01:00.000-07:00

Don't miss it. Today only, everything in A+ Designs store is 50% off!! That 's right. The percent off will show up in the design cart, so what are you waiting for? Click on the store icons to go to Mel's Store!!

A little more Bahama Mama Love

2011-09-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

I love the variety of the beautiful layouts i have seen with this fun kit.

Don't be afraid to use a kit for other than its intended theme, this is a great way to get more bang for your buck and make your pages truly unique!

Here is another freebie for you made from Bahama Mama: a Paper Stax

Click image to download

LOTW

2011-09-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

This layout by wtunison really stood out to me in the gallery & I chose it for LOTW.
Stop by and tell her what you like about her layout, I know it's always great to hear what people love about your layout.

I love the composition of the layout, it really draws the eye from bottom to top. The colors are amazing together and the clustering is so simple yet elegant.
Great job!
Click here to leave her some love!

This layout was completed using the new kit Simply Irresistible:

Grab this kit here:
Gottapixel.com
Scrapbookbytes.com

Don't forget to post your layouts in A+ Designs gallery, we would love to see your work.

Tuesday's Challenge

2011-09-27T06:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Tuesday to you all! This week I have been taking a trip down Memory Lane going through some of my much older scrapbooks - my PAPER pages. Those were the days. Lots of embellishments, very bulky pages and memories of ink stains, paint everywhere and paper scraps all over the floor. Good times - LOL! No, really. They were. I never miss all of the clean up and mess of paper scrapping but one thing I do miss is all of the creativity. It seems there are times now that I rely too much on our fabulous designers and less on my own imagination. When I would paper scrap I would pull out my shape templates and manipulate my paper into various shapes - scalloped squares, triangles, bracket mats. All of these gave visual interest to the page. These shapes didn't have to come "pre-made" with the paper kits, we made them.

Soooooo... for this week's challenge I want you to pull out your version of a "shape template." Perhaps you have some in your stash, maybe you want to use your shape tool on Photoshop - however you choose to make a shape, let's add some variety to those pages. The ONLY rule is that you cannot use a PLAIN square, circle or rectangle. If you use these shapes they must be embellished in some way - scalloped, for example.

You have until Monday, OCT 10, at midnight, EDT to get these completed and uploaded into a gallery with a link back here on this post. There will be a $5 gift certificate to Mel's store for some lucky participant! FUN!

Here is an example of a page that I created using an embellished triangle, scalloped rectangle and a bracketed mat behind my photograph. I've used Mel's newest kit, Simply Irresistible, which is now on sale at Gotta Pixel and Scrapbook-Bytes.

New kit..a freebie...and a bundle

2011-09-24T17:43:00.000-07:00

Mel has a new kit out!! Simply Irresistible has 10 patterned papers 4 solid 1 alpha - upper and lower 2 artistic smears 1 berry branch 1 birdhouse 1 bling 1 bling clip 1 branch filler 1 clip 1 weed 1 flair 4 flowers 1 flower trio 1 lace frame 1 decorative frame 1 rectangle frame 1 key 2 branches 1 flower resin 1 curled ribbon 4 ribbons 2 rickrac 1 staple 1 string 1 stitch 1 stitch frame and it is only $3 at Gotta Pixel.

Here is a freebie from Sharon

http://www.4shared.com/photo/rul2REbF/SimplyIrreritable_freebie_clus.html

Now for the awesome bundle....

You can grab this at Gotta Pixel

You get:
Sweet American Pie Full Kit
Country Shab Kit
Country Shab Smears
Country Shab Templates
You Light Up My Life Full kit
Princess Rock Smears
Echoes of Love Full kit
Princess of Rock Templates
She's All That Worn Papers
Purely Perfect Worn Papers
Got A Feeling Smears
Got a Feeling Full kit
Fresh Start Full kit
Echoes of Love Smears
Echoes of Love Alpha
She's All That Smears

16 products for only $10

Bahama Mama sweet layouts

2011-09-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

Throwback Thursday-

not too far back... this fun kit was released in July. Duo-licious has delivered again!

A few of the beautiful layouts created using this kit:

Want to see more layouts?? Click here.

Now a freebie from Bahama Mama: a simple frame cluster

Click image to Download

Lovely Layouts for this Week

2011-09-21T06:54:00.000-07:00

CT M'Lee here for this week's Lovely Layouts for the Week. I don't know about you, but I have a very difficult time with the concept of "layout of the day/week." I like everyone's pages, not just because they are all so pretty but because they are, each in their own way, a work of art, someone's creation and a piece of themselves. I find it hard, therefore, to say this one is better than that one or that page deserves to be recognized over the other one. Yes, some may be more elaborate than others but then there those who use family photos vs stock photos or some who prefer more journaling over those who do not. Which page, then, is more beautiful? Who am I to say?

In light of that, I would like to share with you a few pages that highlight some of Mel's beautiful kits from this week. ALL of the pages that were made were beautiful, these are just a few examples:

Cindy B took the gorgeous autumn kit, It's in the Air, and used it for something completely different - a stunning vintage page. Her use of the artistic smears adds a perfect and unique touch for this heritage page.

A perfectly blended background highlights this scrapfabulous page by Wendy. She used Mel's "Shine on You" and further enhanced the page with clusters and layers in each corner.

I hope you enjoyed these highlights. If you see a page using A+ Designs' kits that you would like to see featured, please drop me a note at mlee.hybridgal at gmail .com I look forward to seeing the pages you find inspiring.

Shine on me

2011-09-21T01:00:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!!
More wonderful freebies from the A+ Design team!! Yeah!!!

Link Expired

A new kit from Duo-licious- Shine on me

2011-09-19T02:00:00.000-07:00

The awesome "duo" of Duo-licious are at it again. Obviously some flooding can't keep Dani away from designing and we are glad of it!!! While Dani is cleaning up after all the flooding in the northeast, her team and ours has been working on some great layouts for you!

From Amy Jo

From Sharon

By M'Lee

by Wendy

Here is the border I used in the layout- my sister

http://www.box.net/shared/8y2fetppb5e0euptg4hq

Sneak Peek from Duo-licious (A+ Designs and Danimoy designs)

2011-09-17T17:55:00.000-07:00

That's right. A+ and Danimoy have done it again and this kit is awesome. Head on over to scrapbookbytes on Monday.

2011-09-13T03:23:00.000-07:00

Do you love my designs and want to get some kits for FREE?

I'm looking for some girls to add to my BLOG team!

SEND EMAILs TO: aplusdesignsess@gmail.com

GGI on Sale through Tuesday 12am Midnight at Gotta Pixel!

Check out what my AWESOME CT did with this LO!

And check out GAB at Scrapbook-bytes!

And check out what my CT did with this beauty!

FREEbie DOWNLOAD

Check out my blog for Challenges and FREEbies!

A+ Designs CHALLENGE:

Gotta Pixel Crockpot Challenge at GP

Greeting Card Challenge at SBB

Be sure to sure to check this fun challenge out;)

Don't forget to check out my A+ Designs blog.

My Creative Team post almost daily and they're always giving something away!

Tuesday's Template Challenge

2011-09-12T21:12:00.000-07:00

Hello! CT Member M'Lee here on this fantastic Tuesday! I don't know about you but I love and adore challenges! I got my start in scrapbooking through a series at challenges over a decade ago and I haven't stopped since! So when Mel needed someone for Tuesday Challenges here on her blog, I was jumping up and down and waving my hands in the air!

Each Tuesday Challenge will bring you something different - they may be templates, lyrics, All About Me, Scraplift a Creative Team member - who knows? What I do know is that there will always be a PRIZE! I love prizes too!! More on that a little later...

This week I bring you Templistic Tuesday - a template based on a page that I made using one of Mel's older kits, A Beautiful Life. There is nothing more fun that going back through kits and finding new uses for them.

For this challenge you are to do TWO THINGS: use the template as the basis for your inspiration, either as it is or modified AND use a kit created by A+Designs, of course.

This is the template that you will be working with:

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE TEMPLATE in TIFF or PSD format:

And here is the page on which the template was based, you know, just in case you wanted to see it LOL!

NOTE - When you have finished your page for the challenge, upload it to a gallery of your choice. We hope that it will be at Gotta Pixel or Scrapbook Bytes but anywhere is fine as long as you post a link back here in the comments section.

You have until MIDNIGHT, EDT, on Monday, September 26th to complete this challenge. A winner of a gift certificate to Mel's Store will be selected from those who post a link in the comments and that winner will be announced on the blog. A new challenge will be issued on Tuesday, 9/27.

I hope you enjoy the challenge and cannot wait to see what you create. If you have any questions or comments just let us know!

It's in the Air- GAB at ScrapbookBytes + a freebie

2011-09-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

Mel has another new release- this one is the GAB at SBB. That's right- you can grab parts of the kit for only $1 each for a limited time.

Here is the lovely kit

Here are some layouts from our awesome CT

And you get a freebie too!!

http://www.box.net/shared/vzkntjge6nytlabpnjy8

Blog Team Call

2011-09-10T19:57:00.000-07:00

It's GGI Time at Gotta Pixel

2011-09-09T23:29:00.000-07:00

This is what you have been waiting for- GGI time at Gotta Pixel and Mel has a great selection for you today!!! Here is the kit: Fall Festival-just in time for fall pictures, fairs and all the fun of autumn.

Here are the papers

The elements

The Artistic Smears:

To inspire you- here are some layouts from out wonderful CT

More Organization

2011-09-08T20:50:00.000-07:00

Last time I talked about how I use Evernote to organize my inspiration files, now I want to talk about how you can use Evernote to organize other things in your life.

If your kids are anything like mine, they bring home a sea of papers and projects from school, church and parties. I decided right away that I couldn't keep everything, but I hate to throw things away that they have worked so hard on.

For several years I didn't know what to do and kept quite a bit of the projects coming home. The problem I had is I didn't really have anywhere too store them and they got pretty beat up moving from one place to another. Eventually I started photographing projects, either by themselves or with my child holding it. I still do this for favorite projects and to remind me how big they were when they made a particular project. The problem with this is I don't have everything tagged or key worded to be able to find pictures when I need them.

Then I started using Evernote and had a lightbulb moment! I created a notebook for each of my children and started saving the photographs (or taking a photo with my phone) I then tag the image with the year, and that's it. I am excited that Evernote recently announced shared notebooks, now my husband and I can both add to the kids notebooks. I also use the notebooks as a place to record journaling and cute or funny things the kids do or say.

Another way I use Evernote is keeping my recipes organized. I created a notebook titled "My Recipe Box", anytime I see a recipe online, or get one in my email, I add it to that notebook. When I first started using evnote, I tagged every recipe by category, and main ingredients. Now, however, I don't tag at all because I have realized the search feature works great.

There are several ways to add notes to Evernote, you can open the program and select add a new note. You can use the web clipper, and you can set up a special email address to email your notes to. I use all these methods and love the flexibility. You can also set up Evernote to save your tweets.

By the way, Evernote is available as a free download or app for multiple platforms, and you can use the service without having to pay. I have received a warning email from Evernote once or twice, saying I was getting close to my limit for the month, but when I checked how many days were left in my cycle, I only had 2-3 days until my account reset. I haven't payed for the premium service yet, I might in the future, but right now the free service is doing everything I need.

Do you use Evernote? Let me know how you use it, I'd love to hear your tips and tricks.

Coming soon!!!!

2011-09-06T12:09:00.000-07:00

Mel has a gorgeous new kit coming out soon over at Scrapbookbytes. It's in the Air is one of the GAB's for the month so there is so much great stuff to choose from- smears, worn papers (yahoo), great elements and an alpha. The best thing....each part is only $1!!!

Stay tuned because you know our talented CT team will be back with more goodies.

Inspiration Organization

2011-08-25T19:57:00.000-07:00

Where do you have your inspiration organized? I love to look at the beautiful layouts in galleries and on blogs, but finding those layouts later can be a challenge. I have two ways for you today.

Evernote: I created a notebook titled layout inspiration, every time I find a layout I love, I can highlight the image and add it to my notebook. I can also add nots about what I loved and why the layout is inspirational to me. If you use the web clipper to add the page to Evernote, it will automatically add the URL to the note, making it easy to refer back to the original for credits.

Pinterest: I created a board titled Scrapping Style. When I find a layout I want to add to Pinterest, I use the bookmarklet button to "Pin It". When the pop up window comes up to describe th pin, I like to add what I love about the layout. One note about pinning, make sure you are at the source of the image, the link in Pinterest will take you to whatever page you were on when you clicked "pin it". This is important if you later want to reference the layout, if you ar linked to the gallery, no problem, but if you've linked to the image directly, it might be hard to find the credits. You can follow my boards here.

I love both these methods for different reasons, I like to scrap when I don't have access to the Internet and Evernote let's me have access to my file even when I'm offline. Pinterest is Fun and pretty to look at, and the visual organization is awesome. I also love that I can find more inspiration while I'm on Pinterest and add to my boards.

I have tried to keep a file on my hard drive, but keeping the credits straight was too much of a challenge for me. I also tried marking my favorites in the galleries directly, but I tend to jump around in different galleries and could never find the layouts again.

How do you organize your inspiration? Do you need a Pinterest invite? Email me directly and I'll send you one- pinklimecreations (at) gmail (dot) com.

Free Quickpage!

2011-08-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hi! It's Olivia! I've made a cute little QP for you today. :)

I used She's All That Kit, She's All That Artistic Smears, and She's All That Worn Papers available at Gotta Pixel:

And here is your quickpage:

Download Here: 4Shared

It is based on my layout, Florida in Bloom:

I hope you enjoy it!
Happy Scrapping!
♥Olivia

Throwback Thursday and a Freebie for you

2011-08-18T16:36:00.000-07:00

When I first was introduced to A+ Designs, I absolutely fell in love with Bloom's Symphony. I love the versatility of the kit- the reds, pinks and purple work great for girly pages, while the greens, tans and browns give me papers to use on pages for my boy. The eclectic mix of elements drew me in too, I love the topiaries and the bird houses!

your purchase automatically includes the add-on:

Ad here is some inspiration for you!

Last thing, I promised you a freebie-so here is a stacked paper created using Sweet American Pie.

Click Image to download

Until next time- Happy Scrapping!

Layout of the Week

2011-08-17T06:09:00.000-07:00

I'm back again this week to choose a layout in Mel's gallery that really stands out, but they all do so it was really hard. I think Mel did an amazing job with this month's Gotta Grab It kit. I love the colors and it was great to see so many layouts catch my eye with the red and green.

Here's a preview of the kit pieces. Right now is a great time to buy them since they are only $1 each

I chose CindyB's layout because of it's beautiful clustering. I also like how she cropped the picture of her mom and framed it separately, bringing the focus to it. Picture is linked to the gallery so be sure to leave her some love.

Our very own Hybridgal created an amazing page as well with this kit. The clustering is beautiful and I love the stacked papers. The font she chose for the title matches perfectly with the pictures.

Have a great rest of the week!

--Amy Jo

New Release and Freebie

2011-08-13T01:37:00.000-07:00

It's time for Gotta Pixel's GGI again. As usual, Mel did a wonder with the given color palette

"Sweet American Pie"

This is what it looks like as a whole.

Want to see the kit in action? Check out the following CT's creative layouts!

Wendy

Olivia

Amyjo76

Jessica

Christi

Sharon

Kristin

DeeJ

MLee

By Me

Freebie

To celebrate the release of the new kit, I've tweaked one of my layouts a bit and made it into a quickpage freebie. Click on the image preview below to download.

August 10th ~ Layout of the Week

2011-08-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hi! It's Olivia! :) I'm here on this wonderful Wednesday to show you two gorgeous layouts made with kits by Mel. :)

This first layout I have is "Dandelion Wonder" by lwentkie.

I love the darker colors in the layout. The flower cluster on the top of the frame is so pretty. I also love the paper strips behind the picture. :) Wonderful layout, lwentkie!

lwentkie used Whispers in her layout. You can buy this kit in Mel's Gotta Pixel store.

My second layout I chose is "Seattle" by seniorgal.

This layout popped out in the gallery with the bright orange paper. Then I saw her clustering ... iLove! She's also rockin' the huge photo! :) Beautiful layout, seniorgal!

seniorgal used Got a Feeling, which is available in Mel's Gotta Pixel and Scrapbook-Bytes stores.

Don't forget to leave some love on these ladies' layouts... since they're so AWESOME!

Hugs and Happy Scrapping!
♥ Olivia ♥

Turn around and they're four, soon they walk out the door...

2011-08-09T00:01:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Tuesday's Challenges here on Mel's blog. I'm M'Lee, one of A+ Designs' newest team members and this is my first blog post and challenge. I am especially excited to be doing this today because it is my oldest son's birthday. I won't tell you how old he is because then you would have an inkling of how incredibly ancient I AM - LOL! It does seem as though just yesterday he was born, taking his first steps, that I heard his first laugh and now he is such a wonderful, very grown young man.

I have created a page that includes various photos of my son throughout the years and a piece of word art using Mel's newest kits, Escape. For this week's challenge I ask that you create a page incorporating the word art somehow. If the wording doesn't exactly fit your needs simply take your brush and lightly erase portions of it and use it as a background. As long as I can still tell that you used it. I know the lyrics may not be everyone's cup of tea.

Here is my page for a bit of inspiration:

You can find Mel's fabulous kits this week as part of the Grab A Byte event at Scrapbook Bytes.

HERE is the download for the word art:

You have until next Tuesday a.m. 9:00 EDT to complete the challenge. You can upload to any gallery that you choose but we would REALLY love it if you would upload to one of Mel's at Scrapbook Bytes or Gotta Pixel. Wherever you upload, you must be sure to post a link to your page back here in the comment section to be eligible for the prize. I can't wait to see what you create! ENJOY!

Great Deals in Digi

2011-08-04T10:13:00.000-07:00

Today I wanted to highlight some of the great deals in digital supplies from A+ Designs.

As you know, A+ Designs are available at both Scrapbook Bytes and Gotta Pixel. Each store has some great deals for you to snag-

First up is the Summer Digital Kit Bundle:

Here you can receive 12 full kits for 65% off retail price. For $17.50 you will recieve:

Princess Rock
Busy Bee
The Beautiful Life
Just Breath
Simply the Best
Essence (and the add-on)
So in Love
She's all That
The Last Song
Awakening
Flamboyant
If Only

For the price this is a great deal- you pay less than $1.50 per kit. Unfortunately this deal doesn't include any templates or smears, but if you'd like to pick some of those up here are some deals for you too.

Templistic: Last Song is on sale at Gotta Pixel for $1.75 (56% off)

Most of the other items in both stores are at least 30% off- head over and check out the great deals. What a great time to add to your stash!