How to use cut files without a Silhouette

Hi guys, Diane here with a couple of ways to use the amazing FREE cut files in the Citrus Twist shop, without a Silhouette (or other electronic cutting machine)

I'm fully aware that an electronic cutting machine is a hefty investment when it comes to crafting, but just because you don't have one, doesn't mean you can't take advantage of the free cut files that Citrus Twist has for you! So I wanted to show you a couple of easy ways you can use the cut files to create stunning pages in your Traveler's Notebook or on your scrapbook pages.

The first way is to simply cut them by hand! By printing out the cut files and using them as a guide for hand cutting, you can get the exact same look as cutting them by machine. It does take a little bit longer and the results aren't exactly as precise, but it is still an easy way to create your own cut pieces.

A few tips:

• Use a really sharp knife.
• Don't apply TOO much pressure, just enough to go through the paper.
• Keep the blade flat, use the whole blade rather than just the tip.
• Always drag the knife towards yourself, rather than pushing it away from you.
• Be VERY careful to keep those fingers out of the way!

The second way to use cut files is even easier than the first, stitching guides! Simply print the cut files out and use them as a template for stitching! This is such a simple technique for adding loads of texture and personality to your pages. And its the perfect activity to do while you're catching up on your favourite series too!

Here are a couple of ideas for using cut files without a Silhouette and my process for putting together this very simple page...

I can't wait to see what you do with all the amazing digitals from Citrus Twist so don't forget to post them in the Facebook Fan Page so we can see!

Tuesday Tutorial | Make your own TN insert with pattern paper!

Hi guys! I'm still obsessed with Traveler's Notebooks and I love creating my own inserts from pattern paper. Think of it like a little mini book!

Here's how I do it:

All you need is 3 pieces of pattern paper, a paper trimmer or a cutting mat and a knife, a needle and thread or a stapler!

I use the template below to trim out my papers. The only important thing to remember is to make sure any patterns are up the right way. For instance, my kite paper needs to be vertical when I cut and fold it.

Once I've cut and folded all my papers, I put them in the order I want them to be (making sure to match up the patterns you want together) and then I clip them all together and poke holes down the centre fold.

Then I stitch them together using a running stitch and tie off the ends. You could also run it through your sewing machine or use a stapler (if you don't have a long arm stapler, I have a tutorial for doing it with a normal stapler here).

And then the fun part, embellishing! The vintage lace in the August kit is going to be perfect for this part!

Now, if you want to see how I did it, rather than try to follow my messy instructions, here is the process video... 

Tuesday Tutorial with Inkie Quill ~ Floating Embellishment Clusters

What's up scrappy peeeeps?!

I have a easy but effective technique to show you today for Tutorial Tuesday - the mysterious "floating" embellishment cluster.

Make sure you scroll to the bottom of this post to watch the full process video using the June Pocket Life Kit :)

All you need for this tutorial are your 6x6" papers, a few basic punches/dies and some plastic packaging. Easy peasy!

I decided to choose some of my fav punches - a basic 2" (ish) heart, 1" circle, 1" scalloped circle and a teeny tiny heart.

1. Punch several shapes using your punches or dies.

2. Cut out a 3x4" piece of plastic packaging to use as a backing for your floating cluster.

3. Attach one of your clusters to one side of the plastic packaging.

4. Flip over the packaging and mirror the same shapes by creating a second cluster on the reverse side.

5. Decorate with some tiny word stickers or phrases.

6. Carefully slide the plastic piece into your pocket protector, and voila! Floating embellishment!

Scroll down for the full process video below!