Sizzix Tutorial

A couple of years ago I got a Sizzix Eclips for Christmas.  It has been one of the best gifts I have ever received.  When I decided I needed a cutter I researched the different types.  I knew I wanted one that I could download files to.  The Sizzix Eclips looked like it would be exactly what I needed.  I found one that was bundled with the software I needed, Sure Cuts A lot.  It enabled me to import my own images from the internet and also gave me access to all of the fonts I have in my computer.  I use it all the time and have loved it.  Below is a little tutorial for those starting out.

One of the things I do most with my Eclips is making stencils.  First I design the sign in my computer on my Sure Cuts A lot.

This is what it looked like after the file has been cut and the letters have been removed. Only the vinyl has been removed the backing is still intact.  You will need some kind of transfer medium.  You can buy transfer tape from the supplier of your vinyl, but I just use clear contact paper.  I cut a piece about the size of my stencil and pull the backing off and place it on top of my stencil.  Then I take a scraper, but you can also use a credit card etc. and rub across the contact paper.  I then flip it over and slowly remove the backing.  You are then left with the contact paper with the stencil stuck to it.  

Center the stencil over your wood and then use your scraper to adhere it to the wood.  Go over it a few times and then slowly remove the contact paper.  Then make sure all the edges and secure so the paint won't seep under it.  

I then use a foam brush and dab the paint on, being careful not to push any paint under the stencil.  I usually let it dry between coats.

When the paint is dry, pull off the stencil.  I think wood is great to stencil on because if there is any seepage under the stencil I can just lightly sand it to give it a worn look.  

This is the finished lettering.  Here are a few other thing I have used my cutter on.

Thanks for checking them out!

Cindy

Fall Mantle

Fall is in the air in West Tennessee.  We have had a very mild summer and it is shaping up to be a beautiful fall.  It is so nice to have a little chill in the air in the mornings and see pumpkins for sale at the farmer's market.  I have been working on a little decorating in my own home, starting with my mantle.

When we moved into our house a few years ago, we hung our TV over the mantle, but didn't want to go to the expense of having it wired since it was a working fireplace.  Having the TV there works best for the room, but the cords were so ugly.  I started trying to come up with decorations that hide the cords.  I change it with the seasons.

The left side has a silver tray painted with chalk paint.  The quote is from William Cullen Bryant. I added a few magnets I made with some scrapbook embellishments.  I used a brass candle stick with a small ceramic pumpkin and some dried hydrangeas.

I still used the copper piece from Spring for the backdrop on the right side.  I filled the hurricane globe with small pumpkins.  I love these little pumpkins.  The small bouquet came from Hobby Lobby.  

I plan on adding a banner or leaves to the twine string, but our leaves haven't changed enough yet.  

I am giving away a Poe - Halloween pillow this month on my Facebook page.  Just like my page at https://www.facebook.com/SelmaRoseVintage for a chance to win.  Thanks for checking it out.  I hope you are having a good fall in your little corner of the earth.

Cindy