Always Play Layout-Tutorial and Gypsy File

I know I promised some non paper projects today but I had to do a little rearranging in my schedule to fill in over at Pink By Design Blog today.  Normally I shy away from layouts.  They are intimidating for me.  I am no sure why since that's how I started 13 years ago. But as a personal goal this year (I despise resolutions), I am attempting to try and make more layouts.  And not blank ones- ones with pictures. So here we go!

All the cuts are from the Cricut cartridge Teresa Collins Sophisticated.  The paper is also Teresa Collins- On the Edge.

 I started by cutting all my embellishments.  I like to do all cutting then all assembling. This banner was cut at 1.12 inches.  I folded it in half.  Stamped this sentiment from Pink By Design "Big Thoughts" and then adhered it with ATG around a lollipop stick.

Remember I cut from Gypsy so if you are cutting traditionally you will need to round up or down to the nearest 1/4 inch.

Next I cut this star shape and the layer "BOYS" at 3.38 inches (real size off). I cut this from Tim Holtz Grungepaper.  My settings were depth 6, speed 5, pressure 5, multicut 2. I also used paiter's tape to hold to the mat during cutting. I used Layers on Glimmer Mist and Crackle Paint in Broken China for the star emblem.  The words boys was coated thinly with Viva Decor Pearl Pen.

 The Argyle is cut at 7.35 inches.

 The bracket is cut at 8.29 inches.

I also saved and trimmed the negative portion of the bracket cut to use.

The crown is cut at 1.47 inches from AC Metallic cardstock.  I tinted the silver cardstock with Sailboat Blue Alcohol Ink and then gently coated it with Gunmetal Stickles. It's a pretty cool effect in real life.

Next I matted my photo.  I used  Cuttlebug Folder Brickyard for the matting.  I sanded after embossing to really bring out the embossing.  Whenever I sand, I use the Dust Buddy From Core'Dinations.  It picks up all the loose dust.  You can even rub it on your projects to remove the paper dust from sanding and distressing.

Here is my photo all matted.

Next I began assembling.

Whenever I want to add dimension, I use pop dots.

Finally I added my cuts.  The word "Play" is from my stash of goodies. I may have gotten them at Joann, but it was several years ago. Then I tore up the edges of the side to reveal the white core.  I inked the exposed edges with Black Soot Distress Ink.

After I tore up the edges and inked, I used Canvas Corp Hemp to wrap around the edge.  I also used some beading wire too.  I used ATG to mount them to the backside of the layout before mounting to my base. 

I love all this dimension!

Here are some great close ups. 

 I am super proud of this layout.

 It has given me the confidence to begin to preserve my families memories. 

 I am still not brave enough to add my handwriting, but one step at a time, RIGHT!??!!

Tonight is the Ustream event for the January Pink By Design Release Party- January 6 at 8pm CST.  I will be there and hope you will too!

Here is the free Gypsy file for this layout. 

Teresa Collins Boys Layout Gypsy File 

If you download please leave me a comment. I would really appreciate it.  Also don't forget to subscribe and follow me for more projects and inspiration! Have a creative day!