YourStory Custom Covers

You'd think that I only use my YourStory, from what I post here. I've done lots of Cricut stuff this week that I'll be sharing, but I also have made this YourStory video that I think some folks will appreciate. It shows you how to create your own custom covers for use in the YourStory binder. Enjoy!

YourStory laminating pouches

Just a quick note -- the "Universal" laminating pouches I ordered have arrived, and if there is a difference between them and the ProvoCraft ones, I can't tell. They're 3mil, "hinged" at the top, and I got 100 of the just-bigger-than-8.5-x-11 for about $13. I ran one through the YourStory tonight to laminate a page from a magazine that I wanted to keep, and it worked flawlessly. (They even *smell* the same as the ProvoCraft ones!)

Amazon carries them for a good price. (And no, that's not an affiliate link.)

Interesting toys?

There are two things I'm on the trail of now, an Imagepac stamp-making kit, and a Xyron Design Runner.

Do you have any experience with either of them? Are they worth the money? And for the Imagepac, any sources in the US? Everything I'm seeing is in the UK.

(UPDATE: I finally did get the Design Runner, for $30, so can't complain. Now, for the PC-Link...)

Cricut and embossing powder

I wanted to do some embossing with embossing powder, but didn't have just the right stamp...and to be totally honest, my favorite stamp pad had dried a bit too much. So I was trying to figure out what I could use instead of stamp ink. As I walked by my sewing table, the quilt-basting spray caught my eye -- and FLASH! Instant inspiration.

Here's a short tutorial on how to use your Cricut, quilt-basting spray, and some embossing powder to make quick, custom raised lettering and images.

Cricut and Embossing Powder from Irreverent Crafter on Vimeo.

Laminating supplies on the cheap

According to the ProvoCraft web site, you can use non-YourStory laminating pouches, as long as they're hinged, and "3mil". I found some "Universal" brand on eBay, 100 US letter size for $14 or so, including shipping. Take a look, and see if there are any still there!

The right place

The spot where I do most of my paper work (not paperwork!) is downstairs...it's cool and quiet and removed from the bustle of the house. (Sewing is done elsewhere.)

The right tools

Here are the tools that I work with to make paper and textile things:

• ProvoCraft Cricut Expression
• ProvoCraft Cricut Personal
• ProvoCraft Cuttlebug
• Xyron 9000 Creative Station
• Xyron 510 Create-A-Sticker
• ProvoCraft Yudu
• ProvoCraft YourStory
• Small Fiskars paper trimmer
• Large paper trimmer
• Stack cutter
• Zutter Bind-It-All
• Kelsey Excelsior 5x8 Letterpress
• BabyLock Ellegante
• Janome Memory Craft 5700
• Clover Soft crochet hooks
• Foam Kumihimo looms (square and hex)
• Embird
• Sure Cuts A Lot
• Mac OS X
• Xyron Design Runner - NEW!
• Xyron Wishblade with v1 Create and Cut Software - FOR SALE