Pouring concrete is a great way to preserve a handprint, but concrete does not work well in scrapbooks. We have come up with a project that is almost as good as a concrete imprint. And the really great part; it fits right into your scrapbook.
Electronic cutting is relatively new to paper crafting, but most systems rely on cartridges. The Pazzles Inspiration® links to your computer, giving you complete freedom to cut what you want, even your own child’s handprint. Now we’re cutting!
1. Use black tempera paint and a foam brush to paint a thick coat on child’s hand. Make a test print to make sure you get a good impression. Let dry.
2. Have child write her name on white paper with a black marker. Have her write really big. Using a computer and scanner, you can take the handprint your child created and their very own handwriting, and reproduce it exactly as it was created. You might be able to do this with a craft knife, but we haven’t tried it. (And we don’t sell craft knives.) With the Pazzles Inspiration®, we can turn the artwork into a cutout perfectly matching the original.
3. Scan the handprint and name directly into the Pazzles software. Use the software to turn the handprint into a cutting line. The handprint will be the exact size of the original handprint!
Create the Two Layers
4. Create a square 11.5” x 11.5” and use the Pazzles Scissors function to change the border to a scalloped edge. Accent your scalloped edge with stitch marking. Simply use the outline function and change the line to dashes.
You might be able to do this with scalloped scissors and a fine marking pen, but it will take a lot longer and not be as accurate. The Inspiration® can save you a lot of time and frustration.
5. Create photo frames to desired size and position hand print(s) and frames on the page.
6. Cut top layer out of paper you desire. Remember that the handprint and signatures are the focal point of the page. A paper with a busy print will compete with the design so choose solids or subtle prints.
7. Create a square 11.8” x 11.8” This is the photo matting layer.
8. Select the palm portion of the handprint and create an inner line for photo opening. Remove the thumb portion if necessary.
9. Create a mat for the photo frames by making an inner line for each one.
10. Cut photo matting layer.
Create the Titles, Journaling and Accent Pieces.
11. Create a rectangle for the Journal box. Add stitch marking to the inside border of the box.
12. Create the journal text and use the pen tool to write the text. Then cut out the Title box.
13. Choose any True Type font you desire and create the Title. Resize to fit space on page.
Finish and Assemble Page
14. Cut out the title, child’s signature and flowers of your choice.
15. Use chalk or ink to accent the edges of the page, letters, flowers and stitch marking.
16. Adhere photos behind matting layer. Attach top layer. Add titles, signature, journal box and flowers.
This project preserves a little bit of your child forever, like a handprint in concrete. If you do not have an Inspiration, you can still complete the project, it just takes longer. If you would like to own an Inspiration, we can help with that. If you would like to watch a tutorial on this project, please go to: www.pazzlescraftroom.com.
To find the Pazzles products mentioned in this article and shown in these layouts, check with your local scrapbook retailer. Browse our Premier Retail Stores for coupons to a store near you.
