‘Sizzix’ Category

  1. Lumberjack Plaid

    2nd November, 2022 by iGirlZoe

    igirlzoe: tim holtz lumberjack plaid distress ranger ink

    Hello friends. Did you meet the newest member of the Tim Holtz Distress family, Lumberjack Plaid?! I think you’ll agree that Lumberjack Plaid is a real nice good honest red! LOL You can get a formal introduction and see the makes and LIVE replay over on Tim’s blog.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz lumberjack plaid distress ranger ink
    I absolutely love the depth of the color from Lumberjack Plaid and it’s so easy to grunge up by adding a little brown from the distress palette. It’s an immediate favorite for this grunge lover.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz lumberjack plaid distress ranger ink
    I die cut the lantern and candles from Candlelight thinlits die set. I love this set and although I’ve cut the candles many times, it was the first time I had cut the lantern! I know right?! I used distress watercolor cardstock and Lumberjack Plaid spray stain and ink pad.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz lumberjack plaid distress ranger ink
    I paired it with the new Modern Festive die set, which I was determined to make vintage! 😉

    igirlzoe: tim holtz lumberjack plaid distress ranger ink
    The background is a stamp called Sparkles and Christmas CMS324 which I brayered with distress archival ink and stamped without using a grid block to give a more weathered look. The sparkles are from the Wise Men thinlits die set.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz lumberjack plaid distress ranger ink
    I added a stamped sentiment from the new Holiday Sketchbook CMS456 stamp set.
    Thanks for stopping by and let me know if you have any questions.

    Zoe

    …
    affiliate links used at no cost to you


  2. Seasonal Distress

    10th October, 2022 by iGirlZoe

    igirlzoe: tim holtz ranger seasonal distress sizzix modern festive create and craft tv pillow box

    Hello friends, hope you had a wonderful weekend. Did you see the Tim Holtz LIVE launch on Saturday? Tim showcased the new Ranger Seasonal Distress products. If you want to see the fantastic demo with so many tips and techniques, it’s over on Tim’s blog.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz ranger seasonal distress sizzix modern festive create and craft tv pillow box
    I am properly obsessed with the new Distress Gray Woodgrain Cardstock and used it to make a small pillow box ready to fill with some treats to gift. I’m equally a smitten kitten for the Distress Snowfall Grit-Paste and since discovering how vintage the Distress Mica Stains can look, I’m regretting not stocking up on last years colors. Fortunately next season, last seasons palette will return and in the meantime I stocked up, but I saved you some. 😉

    igirlzoe: tim holtz ranger seasonal distress sizzix modern festive create and craft tv pillow box
    I used this awesome “Tim Holtz Back From The Vault” die set, “Pillow Box & Tags” to create the pillow box.

    PLEASE NOTE: This die set is ONLY available from Create and Craft TV and go on sale on Tuesday 11th October at 4PM+ 8PM UK and Wednesday 12th October at 8AM UK, while stocks last. They ship international, please see website for details.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz ranger seasonal distress sizzix modern festive create and craft tv pillow box
    I die cut the pillow boxes from Distress Gray Woodgrain Craftstock, lightly blended walnut stain distress ink over the top and once dry, added a strip of scor-tape to the connecting edges ready to assemble.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz ranger seasonal distress sizzix modern festive create and craft tv pillow box
    I die cut distress watercolor cardstock with the new Modern Festive dies.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz ranger seasonal distress sizzix modern festive create and craft tv pillow box
    I spritzed the die cuts with the new Fresh Balsam Distress Mica Stain, dried, sanded and blended in walnut stain distress ink.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz ranger seasonal distress sizzix modern festive create and craft tv pillow box
    I used dies from the AWESOME Chapter 3 dies by Tim Holtz. The tag is from the Collector set and the numbers are from the Specimen set. I absolutely love having these die sets in my collection and have them permanently in my die cart because I’m constantly reaching for them. I cut the tag from Distress Gray Woodgrain Cardstock.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz ranger seasonal distress sizzix modern festive create and craft tv pillow box
    I inked up the Festive Modern die cuts and once dry, added some of the new Distress Snowfall Grit-Paste. This is the perfect amount of sparkle for this glitter hating grunge lover!

    igirlzoe: tim holtz ranger seasonal distress sizzix modern festive create and craft tv pillow box
    I added some of the idea-ology Christmas Droplets which I covered in mushroom alcohol ink.

    NOTE: If you add alcohol ink to these droplets and rub, it will remove the base color. I happen to like this because it makes it look imperfect and grungier, but if you don’t want that, just drop the alcohol ink over the top and walk away.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz ranger seasonal distress sizzix modern festive create and craft tv pillow box
    I added some string around the box which I tied the tiny 25 tag to.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz ranger seasonal distress sizzix modern festive create and craft tv pillow box
    Don’t be fooled by the name Modern Festive or the glimmer of the Seasonal Mica Stain and the sparkle of Snowfall Grit-Paste; all can be vintage grunge. These tiny boxes were so quick to make and you could add the greenery to a gift box, tag, card, to give a few suggestions.

    Thanks for stopping by and let me know if you have any questions.
    Zoe

    The seasonal distress products are available while stocks last.
    …
    affiliate links used at no cost to you



  3. Thankful

    3rd October, 2022 by iGirlZoe

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix halloween pumpkin duo colorize feathery acorns 3D

    Hello friends, hope you’re doing well and enjoyed Tim Holtz’s Sizzix Christmas LIVE launch at the weekend. All of the makes were incredible and it got me excited to make for Christmas, wait… it’s October!

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix halloween pumpkin duo colorize feathery acorns 3D
    As a maker I live in a constant state of seasonal confusion but with the cooler weather arriving here in Denmark and pumpkins on my mind I thought I would share some extra photos and a mini blog post for a make I did for the Tim Holtz Sizzix Halloween LIVE.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix halloween pumpkin duo colorize feathery acorns 3D
    I love love love the new Pumpkin Duo Colorize dies, they are so easy to put together. I went for a more fall themed tag as I know not everyone loves Halloween or the dark side as much as I do!

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix halloween pumpkin duo colorize feathery acorns 3D
    I started with an Etcetera Thickboard Tag in the mini size. Covered with a piece of idea-ology Halloween Worn Wallpaper. You can see the index tab and numbers from the Chapter 3 sets tucked under the background which I embossed with the new Acorns 3D embossing folder. I covered with a wash of distress ink, dried, covered with collage medium and set aside to air dry. I used distress crayons to color the leaves. I added a final wash of watered down white gesso to the spaces between the acorns and leaves.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix halloween pumpkin duo colorize feathery acorns 3D
    I wanted to add a word across the pumpkins without obscuring them too much because they’re so lovely. I didn’t have a suitable sentiment so I crafted one! I used sentiments Thanks + Beautiful from (retired) Handwritten Celebrate and Handwritten Love sets. I cut and spliced them together. Hopefully many of you will have these sets in your stash or something like them.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix halloween pumpkin duo colorize feathery acorns 3D
    I couldn’t have it too pretty pretty, so I added a crow which I die cut from last years Vault Series Halloween dies from idea-ology black kraft stock and sanded it back a little at the edges. I tucked in a little idea-ology mummy cloth.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix halloween pumpkin duo colorize feathery acorns 3D
    Finally I added a feather for it to sit on, die cut from idea-ology black kraft stock. The Feathery die set is going to be one for all year use so I’m very thankful to have this set too.

    Thanks for stopping by and let me know if you have any questions.
    Zoe

    …
    affiliate links used at no cost to you



  4. Christmas Cutouts

    2nd October, 2022 by iGirlZoe

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box

    Hello friends, hope you’re having a nice weekend. I’ve been humming Christmas tunes all day, probably because of the amazing Tim Holtz Sizzix Christmas LIVE launch yesterday. You can watch the replay and see all of the incredible makes over on Tim’s blog.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    I loved the Christmas cutouts set as soon as I saw it. I love the tiny scene you can build. I decided to make a little box that can be filled with gift tags that you could have on hand during the Christmas season or gift to someone who loves handmade, but may not be a maker themselves. And of course you can make them pretty pretty or grungy.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    I used the curio box bigz XL die which is still available and linked at the end of the post. I cut from distress kraft heavystock to give a nice sturdy base and top. I secured the word dies from the Christmas Cutouts set with tape and ran it through my machine.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    I covered the sides with candied apple distress paint mixed with a little ground espresso distress paint.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    I cut a second curio box top from idea-ology backdrops christmas paper to line the inside of the top.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    I cut a piece from the same paper to line the base of the box.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    The inside lining of the curio box gives you a base to glue in letters so they’re inset.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    I cut them from the new seasonal woodgrain black cardstock. I set aside the outer piece to make a tag with later. I cut the center shapes from the seasonal woodgrain white cardstock and glued them into place with distress collage medium.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    For the top of the box I embossed a piece of distress kraft heavystock with the new Tree Rings 3D embossing folder. I simply added gathered twigs distress ink to the top of the embossed tree ring.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    I added the embossed piece to the top of the box and decorated with some of the cutouts inked with distress ink. The houses were cut from idea-ology metallic kraftstock, sanded and inked with walnut stain distress ink.

    Box Side Panels
    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    I made some little gift tags to fill the box with. I cut the mini tree ring (twice) using the bigz die, still available and linked at the end of the post. I carefully cut away the inside with a craft knife and embossed the center piece with the Tree Ring 3D embossing folder.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    I used the complete piece as a base and reassembled the other pieces on top. You could slip a piece of ribbon between if you wished. I punched a small hole in one side and added an idea-ology o ring to thread onto ribbon.

    I should add that the mini tree ring bigz die comes with an embossing folder to specifically fit the tree ring. However, the 3D embossing folders are so incredibly detailed, it was worth the extra effort to use the new Tree Ring 3D embossing folder.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    I used leftover idea-ology metallic kraftstock from the cutout houses and backed the PEACE outer cut from seasonal woodgrain black cardstock used for the inserts on the side of the box top. I used the new Layered Tags and cards cut from the postale chapter 3 die set to create mini gift tags and cards.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix christmas tree ring 3D christmas cutouts layered tags curio box
    I will be sharing more gift cards/tags later in the season.

    Thanks for stopping by and let me know if you have any questions.
    Zoe

    …
    affiliate links used at no cost to you



  5. Otisville

    16th August, 2022 by iGirlZoe

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims

    Hello friends. I’m back today sharing something I made for the Tim Holtz Sizzix Halloween LIVE launch. I love this years Halloween die and folder release. I’m sure I say that each year, but this year is no exception! Make sure you check out the replay and the maker inspiration over on Tim’s blog.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    Welcome to Otisville, population NONE! This creepy abandoned city was inspired by the AMAZING new Otis, Colorize die from the crazy brilliant mind of Tim Holtz! It’s not often that I imagine a project from start to finish before making it, but this was one! Otis had to have his own ville, of course he did. Let’s get into some of the details…

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    I cut a piece of distress watercolor cardstock to fit the inside of an idea-ology vignette tray and die cut with the swirling stars thinlits dies. I sprayed with black soot distress spray and once dry, blended in walnut stain distress ink.

    I also cut a sheet from copy paper making sure it lined up with the first sheet. This is to be used later for light placement.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    I covered a piece of vellum with fossilized amber distress paint and adhered to the back of the watercolor distress background.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    Ready to add to the vignette tray and be backlit by tiny lights later.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    Die cut cityscape buildings from distress watercolor cardstock, sprayed with black soot distress spray and once dry, blended in walnut stain ink.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    I die cut Otis from distress watercolor cardstock and covered with frayed burlap distress spray. I blended in different distress inks for each layer and once dry, assembled.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    You can see from the base piece the embossed detail that shows you where to place the next layer. Colorize really is easy peasy now.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    I die cut the base a second time from fun foam to give Otis a little lift from the background.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    I LOVE him grunged up!

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    I cut a piece of woodgrain cardstock using the decorative trims thinlits die and brayered on vintage photo distress paint and once dry, glued it onto an etcetera trim.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    I die cut alphanumeric tiny type upper thinlits from idea-ology metallic kraftstock and black kraftstock and layered, offsetting slightly.

    BEGINNER TIP: I measure the trim, find the middle and then glue the middle letter. I continue to add letters working outwards from either side.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    I used a piece of copy paper (cut at the same time as the background), as a template to see where the tiny lights should go and where to place my adhesive foam.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    I added a piece of idea-ology metallic kraftstock to the back of the vignette tray. I do this because everything sticks better to the cardstock than the wood and the metallic surface better reflects the tiny lights.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    Once the tiny lights and foam is in place, I removed the backing sheet and pushed the background into place.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    Everything is better with lights!

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    I added the assembled Otis to the center of the swirling stars

    BEGINNER TIP: Work with the lights on so you can better see where they are and when using hot glue, DO NOT get it on the actual light bulb as it can short the lights.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    Next I added the cityscape buildings in 2 rows slightly offset and mounted onto idea-ology metallic kraftstock.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    I added the trim in front of the base of the cityscape, adding a couple of idea-ology hardware heads.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    I used the bold text 2 thinlits dies, cut from idea-ology black kraftstock to add “To The Moon + Back” on both sides of the vignette tray. I painted over the top with a layer of distress collage medium.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix otis colorize cityscape bold text decorative trims
    Thanks for stopping by and let me know if you have any questions.
    Zoe

    …
    affiliate links used at no cost to you



  6. Jack Sparrows Crypt

    15th August, 2022 by iGirlZoe

    igirlzoe: tim holtz distress crypt paste ranger ink sizzix skulls 3D folder

    Hello friends. Hope you’re doing well. Did you catch the LIVE launch of the Tim Holtz Seasonal Distress products? You can watch the replay and Tim’s amazing demos over on his blog. Please note these products are seasonal, so if you want them and it’s in your budget, I recommend you don’t wait, especially not for the Crypt-Paste with me and Tami B stocking up like it’s the grit-paste apocalypse.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz distress crypt paste ranger ink sizzix skulls 3D folder
    I was delighted to see “Crypt-Paste” back in a bigger pot, the single serve pots were not enough for this grit-paste loving girl! The crypt-paste is bittier and grittier and it spreads like butta and as I had the bigger pot I decided to go to town with it and create a Tombstone fit for a pirate!

    igirlzoe: tim holtz distress crypt paste ranger ink sizzix skulls 3D folder
    I took an etcetera mini tombstone overlay and trims from the etcetera bat web trims set and covered the pieces with a white gesso wash. Once dry, I added crypt-paste to the parts of the tombstone that would show.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz distress crypt paste ranger ink sizzix skulls 3D folder
    Using more of the trims from the bat web trims set, mount onto the back of the base of the tombstone to create a shelf to sit idea-ology pieces on later. I covered the crypt paste with hickory smoke distress paint. I love that the translucency of the crypt-paste means you don’t get white showing through and it really is grittier.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz distress crypt paste ranger ink sizzix skulls 3D folder
    The new Skulls 3D folder is nothing short of amazing. You don’t fully appreciate the depth and detail of the 3D until you have it in your hands and can’t quite believe one pass in a folder gives you THIS!! Make sure you check out Tim’s YouTube replay to see what he did with this folder and the black woodgrain surface! WOW!

    I covered a piece of distress watercolor cardstock with a hickory smoke distress paint wash and set aside to dry. I embossed with the Skulls 3D folder then dry brushed white gesso onto the raised parts.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz distress crypt paste ranger ink sizzix skulls 3D folder
    I adhered the 3D skulls background to the tag part of the tombstone overlay and added the tombstone top. To create a side to the tombstone, I mounted 2 trims from the bat web trims set on top of each other to match the height of the top and bottom of the tombtone overlay, trimmed to size and added to the side. I used distress collage medium to glue and lots of clamps to hold in place while it dried!

    igirlzoe: tim holtz distress crypt paste ranger ink sizzix skulls 3D folder
    Using the new Theory alphanumeric thinlits dies, I added “1729” the year that Captain Jack Sparrow met his untimely death.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz distress crypt paste ranger ink sizzix skulls 3D folder
    Using an older piece of halloween idea-ology I hoarded I covered with gesso and wiped away the excess. Once dry I dry brushed black soot distress paint over the top and wiped with a cloth so the black sits in the recessed areas.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz distress crypt paste ranger ink sizzix skulls 3D folder
    I added some moss that I bought from a craft store. You will sometimes find this kind of moss in the model railway section. I painted on a layer of distress collage medium, pressed moss into it and allowed to air dry.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz distress crypt paste ranger ink sizzix skulls 3D folder
    I used a palette knife to spread Crypt-Paste along the edge of the trims to hide the seam and match the rest of the tombstone. Once dry, I covered with hickory smoke distress paint and later dry brushed with black soot distress paint.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz distress crypt paste ranger ink sizzix skulls 3D folder
    Using the Theory alphanumeric thinlits dies again, I cut “Jack Sparrow” from idea-ology black kraft stock several times and layered to give the letters some depth. I lightly sanded small areas and added along the base of the tombstone.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz distress crypt paste ranger ink sizzix skulls 3D folder
    I was able to place idea-ology items along the shelf I created by adding etcetera trims to the back of the tombstone overlay. I covered a bottle from the idea-ology tiny vials with a layer of distress collage medium and once dry, a layer of black soot distress paint. Adding an idea-ology label and skull and cross bones remnant rub. I used mummy cloth colored with distress ink for Jack’s bandana and sewed some beads into the side to imitate Jack’s beaded dreadlock. You can just about see them on the left hand side of the skull.

    Thanks for stopping by and let me know if you have any questions.

    Zoe

    …
    affiliate links used at no cost to you



  7. Specimen Box – Contents

    15th July, 2022 by iGirlZoe

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3

    Happy Friday friends. Today I’m sharing the contents of the specimen box I made for the Tim Holtz Chapter 3 LIVE launch which I shared in a separate post. You can see the LIVE launch replay and maker inspiration over on Tim’s blog.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    The specimen set was certainly my favorite and I do love them all and have to have them all, but the file folder and the specimen slide stole my heart. I’ve been so excited at the thought of a social media world flooded with specimen slides and file folders and I’m waiting on pins for your dies to arrive and see what you make. For today, I’m going to share some details of the contents of my specimen box…

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I die cut file folders from the specimen set from distress mixed media heavystock. Painted with a light layer of white gesso mixed with a little water. I brayered a watered down layer of speckled egg distress paint over the top and stamped using distress archival ink and stamps. Here I used insects from the specimen stamp set and added index clips to hold the folders closed.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I stamped on the back of the file folders with stamps from the new Eccentric stamp set in distress archival ink.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I used stamps from field notes stamp set to stamp the inside of the file folders in different distress archival inks and added a stamp from the idea-ology field notes ephemera set. It reminds me of how they would validate some documents when I lived in Geneva, by using a postage stamp. I always think it makes a boring admin document look so pretty.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Next I made some insert cards using more of the dies from the specimen set. I used the index tab die (which I LOVE) and several insert dies and cut more distress mixed media heavystock. I used remnant rubs to add numbers to the background and a distress tool to scratch it up. I then blended in walnut stain distress ink and wiped with a damp cloth, removing some of the excess ink.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I used stamps from field notes and correspondence, mixed with a little idea-ology ephemera to create this tabbed card. I love having so many different distress archival inks to stamp with too.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I used a stamp from the Laboratorie set on the back of both cards. I tapped each into a distress ink wash.

    Beginner Tip: To create a “distress ink wash”, simply squish your ink pad onto a non stick craft mat, spritz with lots of water and mix it all up with your finger. Then tap your card into the ink wash, lift out and dry with a heat tool or use a dry cloth to pick up excess water. Practice until you find the ink to water ratio you like. These things soon become second nature.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Next to the specimen slides. They are so simple to die cut, ready to be decorated with endless possibilities. I added ephemera to the inside of mine, used a mica tile on top and added “FILED” cut from idea-ology black kraft stock. Because the letters are so tiny I mounted the kraft stock onto double sided adhesive sheets before die cutting. I stuck them onto the outer part of the slide.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I added more idea-ology ephemera to the back of the slides and stamped over top with distress archival ink.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I couldn’t stop making them but I didn’t have time to do step outs so I will be making some more and will share them in the next blog post.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    It’s a great way to use your ephemera, I know you’re hoarding it too! 😉

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    My make concentrated on the specimen set and industrious 3D folder but I couldn’t resist using the postale set to make one tiny envelope. I’m really into airmail themed things so I pulled out some hoarded retired correspondence design tape with that gorgeous airmail striped tape. I die cut my envelope from a recycled envelope. I kept the clear glassine window and reused that too.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I cut the arrows out of envelope front before mounting idea-ology black kraft stock into the recess. I added stamps from the snippets ephemera set and stamped with stamps from the correspondence set.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I used various colors of distress archival inks and stamps from Eccentric, Field Notes and Correspondence stamp sets to decorate the back of the envelope.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I love to use idea-ology apothecary bottles and domes and love that the Chapter 3 dies work perfectly with my favorite pieces. I added a label from the vintage label thinlits die set to and apothecary bottle with remnant rubs added. I tore a corner off the label for a worn look. You have to check out Tim’s cool demo on how to ink and cut the vintage labels.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I added “specimen” to the mini dome. I die cut this from idea-ology metallic kraft stock which I had backed with an adhesive sheet before die cutting. This is a much easier way to add the tiny letters to glass. I added an insect to the optical lens and wrapped with a piece of twine.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I added wadding and an idea-ology bone to a test tube and added a tiny label from the collector set with “bones” rubbed on from the halloween remnant rubs set. I like to do “Halloween” all year round so I always stock up on Halloween idea-ology when it comes around. Speaking of Halloween… I’ve got a busy weekend making ahead… 😉

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Thanks for stopping by, I hope you’ve enjoyed this tour around my specimen box.  Let me know if you have any questions in comments and I’ll do my best to answer them.

    Have a great weekend.
    Zoe

    …
    affiliate links used at no cost to you



  8. Tim Holtz – The Best Chapter

    14th July, 2022 by iGirlZoe

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3

    Hello friends. I’m sure by now you’ve seen the incredible new Tim Holtz Chapter 3 dies and 3D folders. This is Tim’s chapter and the best ever chapter! If you missed the LIVE or want to have it on replay all day, you can see it and all the mind blowing maker inspiration over on Tim’s blog.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    If you know my maker style, I definitely have a love for all things industrial, so the new Industrious 3D folder made my grunge loving heart sing! The detail you get with this folder is incredible and those rivets! WHAAAT!!! The folder was the starting point of my specimen box which I’m going to share details of in this blog post.

    The contents of the box will be in a separate post as I’ve added extra detail in the description to hopefully answer some of the questions I’ve had from makers just starting out. Grab yourself some snacks, get comfortable and let’s get into it…

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Prime a large idea-ology vignette box with white gesso and once dry, add distress opaque crackle paste to the inside sides and border of the vignette. Dry brush vintage photo distress paint over the crackle and rub in walnut stain distress crayon.

    Beginner Tip: Dry brushing is an almost dry paint free brush. Add a little paint to a dry paint brush and remove the excess with a paper towel. Repeat, building the color slowly to add highlight but not a thick layer of paint.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Gather your supplies and using the new industrious 3D embossing folder, emboss idea-ology silver metallic kraft stock. Spritz the kraft side of the metallic kraft stock with a light mist of water and run through your machine inside the 3D folder.

    Note: I used the Tim Holtz Big Shot Foldaway machine and the pressure is so good that it only needs one pass.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Add a little mushroom alcohol ink to random parts of the background and allow to air dry.

    Note: You can skip this part, I find it adds a little “tooth” to the slick metallic kraft stock which the other mediums cling to, giving a more uneven finish, which I like.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Add a layer of ground espresso distress paint using a paintbrush. Get the paint right into the de-bossed areas. Allow the paint to dry a little and then wipe the excess away with a dry clean cloth.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Add a little black gesso with your finger but this time don’t allow to dry.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Use a clean dry cloth to wipe away most of the gesso and allow the remaining to dry.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Add walnut stain distress crayon to parts of the metallic kraft stock that you would like to be darker or grungier. Keep tinkering with it until you’re happy.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Measure the parts of the vignette box you intend to cover and cut the embossed kraft stock to size. When cutting, think about where you want the rivets to sit on your panel.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Using distress collage medium, add the embossed panels to the vignette box.

    Note: I found it worked best to add a layer of collage medium to the vignette box and to the embossed panel.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    To create the box dividers, use the decorative trims thinlits dies to cut strips from the metallic embossed kraft stock. Using distress collage medium, add them to both sides of etcetera thickboard pinked edge trims.

    Beginner Tip: Die cut first and 3D emboss second so you don’t flatten the embossed detail.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Using Tim’s Tonic scissors, trim the trims to fit inside the vignette box. Add a line of distress collage medium using the precision bottle to the bottom and sides of the trims and push into place. Hold in place for a few moments and then set aside and allow the collage medium to completely dry.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I used an offcut to add a compartment to fit an idea-ology test tube! Cut the trim to size and add the distress collage medium. Hold the test tube in place with one hand and slide the trim into place and then remove the test tube and allow to dry.

    Tip: If you need both hands, use a little poster putty/blu-tack to hold the test tube in place while you slide the trim in beside it.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    How cute is the tiny label from the Collector set? I have wanted a label this size for so long. Thanks Tim!

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I can see why Tim loves the new Theory Alphanumeric die set! You get 2 sizes of alphas and the blocks that sit under the smaller letters to lift them to the height of the larger set. SO COOL! I used idea-ology silver metallic kraft stock to cut “Specimen”, sanded, blended in a little walnut stain distress ink and added it to the back panel of the vignette box.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    On the front panel I added No 05. Gently sand the rivets to remove a layer of paint and show the metallic kraft stock underneath.

    Tip: I found sanding the rivets once the embossed panels were on the vignette box was easier as it’s a rigid surface to sand and you just catch the raised rivets without sanding the rest.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I die cut idea-ology silver metallic kraft stock, black kraft stock and mixed media heavystock using the label frame and tiny word dies from the Specimen set. Layering them up to create a thicker label frame for the front of the specimen box. (ignore the word “Archive,” this was just to show what layers I used).

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I added mica tile under the top label piece and used idea-ology long fasteners through the holes and secured at the back and added the label frame to the front panel of the vignette box with distress collage medium.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Using the idea-ology vignette hardware set, I added a hook and an idea-ology hook clasp to the corner of the vignette box.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Does anyone remember the tools you would get at the science museum interactive exhibits that would be attached by chain so they wouldn’t be removed? That gave me the idea to use the hook clasp to attach the idea-ology optical lens to the specimen box.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    Now your box is ready to fill…

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 3
    I’ll be sharing the contents of this specimen box on my blog tomorrow, I hope you can stop by and take a look. If you have any questions, leave them in comments and I’ll do my best to reply.

    Zoe

    …
    affiliate links used at no cost to you



  9. Lucky is a state of mind

    12th April, 2022 by iGirlZoe

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 bold text 2 cracked woven 3D folder

    Hello friends. Day 2 of my week of sharing here on my blog with another make for the Tim Holtz Sizzix Chapter 2 launch. If you’re looking for a quick and simple card, this is it. And if you missed the launch party, you can catch the replay and the inspiration makes over on Tim’s blog.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 bold text 2 cracked woven 3D folder
    “Lucky is a state of mind!” I have been trying to live this phrase a little more in my own life. It’s one of my many favourite quotes from the bold text 2 thinlits die set from Tim’s Chapter 2 release.

    I love that the bold text dies add a real statement to the card allowing you to keep it simple. Let’s get into how to make this quick card…

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 bold text 2 cracked woven 3D folder
    To die cut the background I used a sticky grid covered cutting plate with a die from the bold text 2 thinlits set. Placed a piece of distress watercolor cardstock 3.5 inches by 5.25 inches over the top and ran it through my machine. For a quick cut like this, I use my bigshot foldaway machine. It’s quick to pull out and use and the pressure is AMAZING!

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 bold text 2 cracked woven 3D folder
    Next I spritzed with water and embossed with the cracked 3D embossing folder.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 bold text 2 cracked woven 3D folder
    Finally I sprayed the background with frayed burlap distress spray and a little water and dried. I lightly blended in some walnut stain distress ink.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 bold text 2 cracked woven 3D folder
    I embossed a piece of distress watercolor cardstock sized 3.25 inches by 2.75 inches with the woven 3D embossing folder.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 bold text 2 cracked woven 3D folder
    Spritzed the background with distress spray stain and once dry, rubbed a walnut stain distress ink pad directly onto the raised detail.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 bold text 2 cracked woven 3D folder
    I die cut a couple of four leaf clovers from the lucky love impresslits folder from distress watercolor cardstock.


    Sprayed the clovers with frayed burlap and peeled paint distress spray stain.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 bold text 2 cracked woven 3D folder
    I added a little statue distress foundry wax over the top. Check out Tim’s awesome demo of this new product HERE.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 bold text 2 cracked woven 3D folder
    I added walnut stain distress crayon over the top to grunge it up a little and then stacked the 2 clovers over each other and glued to the background with distress collage medium.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 bold text 2 cracked woven 3D folder
    I assembled and stitched my card.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 bold text 2 cracked woven 3D folder
    Finally I mounted onto idea-ology black kraftstock and distress kraft heavystock.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 bold text 2 cracked woven 3D folder
    Thanks for stopping by and let me know if you have any questions.

    Zoe

    …
    affiliate links used at no cost to you



  10. Tim Holtz Chapter 2

    11th April, 2022 by iGirlZoe

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 modern floristry woven 3D folder

    Happy Monday friends! I hope your week is off to a great start. I’m starting a week of sharing with a make for the newly released Tim Holtz Chapter 2 dies. If you missed the launch, you can catch up on all the fun and see the inspirational makes over on Tim’s blog.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 modern floristry woven 3D folder
    When I saw the modern floristry die set, I knew I wanted to use them with my (retired) pillowbox die. I realise that using retired dies can cause frustration but as someone who has passionately collected for over a decade, I want to be able to use all the dies from my collection and I want you to be able to make along too; so I made a wrap that you can easily adapt to fit something else if you don’t have a pillowbox or the die.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 modern floristry woven 3D folder
    I added all of the elements to the wrap so it’s is easy to adapt and add to another box, envelope, card or even a napkin ring, (which I show later in the post). Let’s get into how…

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 modern floristry woven 3D folder
    I die cut a few pieces from the new modern floristry thinlits die set from distress watercolor cardstock.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 modern floristry woven 3D folder
    Using distress archival ink and the ledger script stamp from CMS241, stamped the die cut pieces.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 modern floristry woven 3D folder
    I sprayed with distress ink spray and once dry, used the shaping kit to shape the petals and leaves, ready to add with distress collage medium.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 modern floristry woven 3D folder
    I LOVE the 3D embossing folders Tim designs and they just keep getting better. The texture on the new woven 3D folder is outstanding and goes so well with the modern floristry.

    I cut a strip from distress mixed media heavystock and ran it through my die cutting machine with the woven 3D embossing folder. I used a scoring board to create 2 folds so that it would fit around the pillowbox and snipped the ends at an angle with scissors to create a neat end, adding scor tape along this end.

    The pillowbox wrap pictured here is 2 inches wide x 7 inches long.
    Score lines at 3 inches + 6.25 inches.

    Adapt the measurements to fit other things and use a practice piece first so you have the measurements figured out.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 modern floristry woven 3D folder
    The woven background was sprayed with walnut stain distress spray stain and spritzed with water. Once dry I rubbed the walnut stain distress ink pad directly onto the woven embossed detail to darken the raised parts.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 modern floristry woven 3D folder
    I used a little iced spruce distress spray and walnut stain distress ink to the edges of my pillowbox that I die cut from distress mixed media heavystock. Using distress archival inks and stamps from the field notes CMS396 set, I stamped the sides.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 modern floristry woven 3D folder
    Ready for the wrap to be slid onto the pillowbox.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 modern floristry woven 3D folder
    It could be adapted to create a napkin ring. I used the pillowbox wrap for demonstration purposes, but for a napkin ring would reduce the width and cut the length to fit. It’s given me some ideas to play with and I’ll share what I make.

    igirlzoe: tim holtz sizzix chapter 2 modern floristry woven 3D folder
    This one is ready to have a gift added and sent out to a friend.

    Thanks for stopping by. I hope this has inspired you to make and let me know if you have any questions.
    Zoe

    …
    affiliate links used at no cost to you