With the start of the new year on the horizon, I have some goals that I'd like to accomplish this next year; one of which is to remember to send my birthday cards. Life gets busy and crazy and I find that with four daughters I'm going in various directions all at the same time. Papertrey Ink's birthday Calender is JUST what I need to make this all work! Paint is a wonderful medium to use with this binder too. I have a few tips about painting these that I can't wait to share with you!
Here is a peek of the finished book.
If you aren't already familiar with Papertrey Ink's Calender products take a moment to check them out HERE. Please scroll down the page to see all the different products in the line. :)
To start off I painted the Kraft Binder's front with Vintage White paint, let it dry then painted the back and side with a sage green pain. I sprinkled a little glitter over the side before it dried too. (binder photo source is Papertrey Ink)
Tip: Rub a piece a paper bag on the painted binder before stamping or any decorative painting to smooth off any lifted fibers and to make the surface smoother.
Next I painted my large sprig image from Larger Than Life with the green paint and stamped the binder with that image then filled in with the smaller sprig image.
Tip: When using paint to stamp, make sure to rinse off your stamp as soon as possible. I even will wipe off the paint with a baby wipe half way through stamping just to make sure I don't have paint dry on my stamp.
After this, I stamped the flowers with a bright pink paint. Sorry, I forgot to snap a photo. :)
Did you notice that sloppy area where the paint colors join on the side? I wasn't even trying to make a straight line there because I knew I wanted to add a ribbon strip over it.
I just used my scissors to make the cut after my Fray Check dried. This took about 10 minutes.
Tip: Adhere ribbon that is longer than your binder then apply Fray Check and let dry.You can then directly cut the ribbon to be flush with the binder without any unraveling. If you are unaware of this product here's a photo. you can find it at most craft, sewing or large department stores, such a Target.
Adding texture is one of the many benefits of using paint. Here is a corner of the finished binder. If you click on the photo for a detail look you will notice the rustic look that I created.
I sanded the opposite direction of the paint strokes then lightly dry sponged some caramel die ink lightly over it all.
Tip: I used these Sanding Blocks to create the striations. You can also find sandpaper in any hardware store. I like the lighter colored ones that are about 400 grit for this type of project. I have a few heavy duty sanding blocks I use when I really need to work materials but it tends to need a finer grit afterwards to smooth things out.
I intend to have this be a high use item for many years. Adding protection to the painting and stamping is warranted in these situations.
After the ribbon was attached, title panel was stamped and adhered (I used Fresh Alphabet, Mat Stack 2 collection and Calendar Basics) and holes punched in the binder, I spayed it with a clear spray for that extra protection I was talking about.
Tip: Test your spray on a stamped piece of scratch paper to make sure that it doesn't bleed the ink. I've found that Krylon Crystal clear sprays 1301 and 1313 have been great, non-bleeding, sprays. I used 1313 on this because of it's satin finish. This also helps with anything wet that might spill on it ... it should just wipe off. (It has in the past for me. I also covered it with two coats for a little extra protection. Just let it dry before adding that second coat.)
Here is the finished binder. I wanted something timeless... that would still look up to date in a few years.
I added little Zva Pearls to the center of the flowers for a little more texture. I also wanted to point out that I used Fray Check on the tie ribbon so it will hold up longer. The ribbon just slipped through the hole with a knot on the other side. I like the idea that this will be SO full I will have to tie it! :)
I'm still finishing up the inside pages... they will be simple and quick. Right now I've just lined the inside flap with patterned paper.
I hope you've learned a little more about painting. I used to decoratively paint Paper Mache boxes. It was one of my favorite things to paint. These tips were so helpful then and it's so wonderful to be able to pull them into stamping! I can't wait to fill up this little book and get organized! Just in time for the new year... a new beginning!
I hope you all have the merriest Christmas! It's been a time of reflection for our family. A time to count our blessings in the face of holiday craziness, even sorrow and adversity. I hope you all know how much it means to me to have the interaction i have with you too... Holiday Hugs!!!
Thanks for poppying by friends!
- Stamps- Larger Than Life, Fresh Alphabet, Mat Stack 2 collection and Calendar Basics
- Ink- New Leaf, Caramel Die ink (SU)
- Paper- Vintage Cream
- Other- Kraft Binder, Mat Stack four die, Raspberry Fizz ribbon, Crop-adile, Various paints, Clear acrylic spray finish, glitter, sanding block, synthetic sponge, Zva Creative Pearls
Beautiful! I used to paint with acrylics, so the process makes sense to me. However, to achieve the result you did is another matter! This would make a gorgeous present, and the out of pocket cost would be nominal. Thanks for sharing your talent and ideas. Merry Christmas.
Carol
Posted by: Carol Jones | December 23, 2010 at 10:45 PM
Beautiful project Lisa! I love the fresh colours. Just wondering what kind of paint did you use? Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and all the best for 2011.
Posted by: Dawn S | December 24, 2010 at 03:52 AM
Always beautiful Lisa!!!
Posted by: Sue Ann | December 24, 2010 at 04:10 AM
I Love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Sonja | December 24, 2010 at 04:25 AM
This is just beautiful. I love to paint and I think this would be a fantastic project to add to my list. What a wonderful gift this would make. Thanks so much for sharing. AJ - aj_822(at)yahoo(dot)com
Posted by: AJ | December 24, 2010 at 04:30 AM
Lisa! You have to stop introducing me to new craft arenas! I am the ADD crafter (as my hubby likes to call me) because of you and your inspiration! I keep telling him that he should be happy...that PTI products can be used in all different areas, not to just make cards. Wait 'till he sees me pull out the painting supplies...First a binder, then maybe a wall! Thanks for the inspiration, the binder is beautiful and simple...love the pearls in the flowers and the color scheme used. Can't wait to try this!
Posted by: Mariah | December 24, 2010 at 04:33 AM
This should be a beautiful thing for years. I love it and I learned about several things thanks to your tips. Merry Christmas and happy new year.
Posted by: SusieQ | December 24, 2010 at 04:33 AM
Your binder turned out so cute!
Posted by: Kathy Martin | December 24, 2010 at 04:55 AM
Absolutely beautiful, Lisa! What a wonderful project for yourself or as a gift! I think my grandmother would love something like this as well. Thank you for all your inspiration!!! Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Posted by: Dawn Easton | December 24, 2010 at 04:57 AM
very pretty!
Thank you for sharing.
Merry Christmas!
Sandra
Posted by: Sandra ltb | December 24, 2010 at 05:13 AM
Wonderful calendar! Happy New Year!
Posted by: jan m | December 24, 2010 at 05:19 AM
wow so pretty great idea, I always like to give a hand made new years gift to my Mom and she love my hand made cards. This will be a great gift for her to put birthday card in for each month. She won't for get a birthday this year. thanks
Posted by: sue snyder | December 24, 2010 at 05:21 AM
Well this is certainly a gorgeous project Lisa! I tend to avoid paint myself (don't like the mess), but what you've done with this binder, tempts me to give it a try! I hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful Christmas :)
Posted by: Diane Jaquay | December 24, 2010 at 05:35 AM
Beautiful project! Thanks for sharing the creative process and tips for making it.
Posted by: Judy | December 24, 2010 at 05:52 AM
Lisa, you never cease to amaze me. Such a beautiful result. Like Diane, I'm a bit hesitant to try paint. What you've done here is just striking. May you and the rest of the Johnson clan have a safe, happy, healthy Christmas followed by a likewise 2011! :)
Posted by: Ted | December 24, 2010 at 05:55 AM
Beautifully done Lisa! Thank you for all the tips about how to make the binder last for years to come. I especially appreciate the pictures you took of the different products…very helpful!
Posted by: Nadine (wahinelei) | December 24, 2010 at 06:02 AM
The calender is awesome. I love the colors you chose.
Posted by: Kelly Neis | December 24, 2010 at 06:33 AM
Lisa,
Thanks for this post. I made one of these books as a christmas gift but have several more to use as gifts throughout the year. Quick question: since the book is thick, what did you use to put a hole in the book to add your ribbon?
Also, can you post a photo of one of your inside pages? I'm curious to see what the patterned paper on the inside edge looks like.
Posted by: linda monroe | December 24, 2010 at 06:38 AM
A wonderful idea! Thank you for taking us through. Merry Christmas to you and blessings as well.
Posted by: Lorena | December 24, 2010 at 06:52 AM
Gorgeous, Lisa! I hope you and your beautiful family have a very merry Christmas!!
Posted by: Broni | December 24, 2010 at 07:14 AM
Very well done... love the colors! I'm glad I popped by! Have a very Merry Christmas!!
Posted by: Cyndy | December 24, 2010 at 07:26 AM
This is so pretty...I think I would like to make more than one of these for gifts. Love all the tips you give....fray check is on my list!
Posted by: Nan | December 24, 2010 at 07:53 AM
So beautiful and useful! Thanks for the painting tips! Merry Christmas Blessings!
Posted by: Pattyb | December 24, 2010 at 07:58 AM
What a breathtaking project, Lisa. I'm really hoping that Larger Than Life is under the tree for me. Thanks for the inspiration.
Wishing you and yours a wonderful Christmas together. May God richly bless you and the family in the days and year ahead. All the best!
Posted by: Suzanne | December 24, 2010 at 08:07 AM
What a beautiful book, Lisa! Thanks for all the product tips. I'm excited to give the krylon a try, since I haven't yet found a durable clear coat. Merry Christmas & may you and your family continue to bask in the peace of Jesus' birth.
Posted by: Susan Winslett | December 24, 2010 at 08:12 AM
Wow! This is just beautiful! I just finished my mom's birthday binder...but kind of wish I'd seen this post first. Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Posted by: Alyssa S | December 24, 2010 at 08:40 AM
The binder is simply gorgeous.
Wishing you and yours a Merry Christmas. Enjoy the holidays with your loved ones.
Posted by: Ingrid Danvers | December 24, 2010 at 08:56 AM
This is one of the prettiest things I have ever seen! I hope I will have the courage to try it. Larger than life is the most classic, timeless set and was perfect for this binder. Thank you for this really inspiring project on Christmas Eve. Merry Christmas Lisa.
Posted by: Cathy Weber | December 24, 2010 at 09:02 AM
Wow! What an incredibly beautiful binder! Absolutely stunning!
Merry Christmas!
Posted by: Jenn Copeland | December 24, 2010 at 09:16 AM
Incredible work! The book is soooooo pretty that I am sure it just beckons one to pick it up. I am very joyful that you were able to stare adversity in the face and triumph. God bless you and your family. TFS and cyber hugs.
Posted by: Juanita in OH | December 24, 2010 at 10:07 AM
its beautiful!
Posted by: Nancy L. | December 24, 2010 at 01:06 PM
Wow what a beautiful book. I love it and thanks for all the details, great idea on a booklet for those special dates.
Posted by: Billie A | December 24, 2010 at 01:39 PM
This is BEAUTIFUL!!! And perfect timing! I have a chipboard scrapbook binder and was looking at it today thinking I have no idea how to decorate it. And now I do thanks to you!!!
I hope you have a wonderful Christmas filled with many blessings!
Posted by: Susan | December 24, 2010 at 01:59 PM
How GORGEOUS, Lisa, and how generous of you to provide a detailed description of how to do this lovely book.
Happiest holidays to you and your family.
Posted by: NancyS | December 24, 2010 at 04:10 PM
This is such a beautiful project Lisa! I will star this to make one in the new year. Merry Christmas to you and your family and thanks for the year of inspirations!
Posted by: Karen | December 24, 2010 at 06:36 PM
So pretty & elegant! Love, love, love the color scheme. So feminine and dainty. This would make a wonderful gift! Thanks for the inspiration and for sharing your product list and your helpful tips! Looks like I already have a New Year project! Happy Holidays!
Posted by: Allison Keller | December 24, 2010 at 08:35 PM
Gorgeous!!! I think it is wonderful idea to keep on top of the birthday list calender.
Posted by: syeda | December 24, 2010 at 09:26 PM
Ahh Lisa I love this. I'm going to make one for each of my 4 friends. Every other year we 4 go to Sanibel Island for a week of fun. We are kindergarden friends (just turning 60 this year!) So every year I bring them all some kind of binder to write in every day for our personal memories and this year I am going to make these. They are adorable and feminine and I know the "girls" will love them. Thanks for sharing-especially the Krylon spray. Great Idea!
Posted by: Erika T | December 25, 2010 at 12:14 AM
This is absolutely GORGEOUS! THANKS for all of the tips! PS I LOVE my larger than life stamps and die cuts! FAB creation! I will NEVER get tired of them or my original Life set! Merry Christmas!
Posted by: Sue Lelli | December 25, 2010 at 05:13 AM
Lisa, this is such a great project! I already had one birthday binder in my cart to try something like this, but now I added two more. And I love my original Life set, its one I reach for time and time again. Never had heard of the fray check, what a great tip! Thanks a bunch and a very Merry Christmas to your family.
Posted by: peggysue | December 25, 2010 at 10:45 AM
Lisa, this is an absolutely beautiful birthday calendar binder. Now I need to follow your tips and make one for myself, so I too won't miss any birthdays next year.
Posted by: Sue C | December 25, 2010 at 03:01 PM
So beautiful, Lisa! It never occurred to me that the cover could actually be painted....lovely results. I have the stamps and can't wait to try this myself. My week after Christmas is being planned to include lots of r & r, card making, scrapbooking and great movies...yeah! I need more organization, so I'm working in another project....this lovely binder!
Posted by: Judy F. | December 25, 2010 at 06:58 PM
This is gorgeous, Lisa. What a great idea to use paint! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas!
Posted by: Katie | December 25, 2010 at 07:22 PM
Such a gorgeous project, I've never attempted painting before but this is something I'm now going to try. Many thanks for the inspiration.
I wish you and yours a wonderful Christmas holiday.
ADx
Posted by: AuroraDawn | December 26, 2010 at 07:44 AM
Wonderful bithday book, Lisa! Hope Christmas brought to you and your family, many merry moments and many marvelous memories. Joy to your world! :)
Posted by: Gabby | December 26, 2010 at 02:51 PM
Lisa- this is soooo beautiful, and your directions and product recommendations are awesome! I plan on making this. I hope you and your family had a blessed Christmas!!!
Posted by: Tracy C. | December 26, 2010 at 06:03 PM
So very cute and useful! Thanks for all the information.
We just got a new van for Christmas, think I will make
a smaller one for my husband, he keeps track of all the
gas, oil changes any thing to do with the car, of course
his will not have the flowers, but mine will.
Thanks again for the great ideas.
Posted by: Sandi | December 27, 2010 at 01:12 AM
The binder is beautiful. Can you post some pictures of the inside pages? Curious as to how you made them. Thanks. Happy New Year.
Posted by: Paula | December 27, 2010 at 05:33 AM
Thanks so much. Looks like something I will hVe to try!
Posted by: Joanne Beck | December 27, 2010 at 01:46 PM
I really love the look of this and I hope to try it on something soon.
Thanks
Posted by: Diana Robinson | December 28, 2010 at 06:05 PM
I love this book and am featuring it tomorrow as part of my Terrifically Talented Thursday post.
Linda
Posted by: Linda | December 29, 2010 at 01:02 PM
LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT! And....love you too~!!
Posted by: Joan Rudd | December 29, 2010 at 03:15 PM
Hi Lisa,
Always been nervous about painting.....your binder looks lovely. Such a shame that I live in Australia as the postage is a killer! I love looking at your blog as it is a real inspiration! Love the glitter and the layering of flowers the best. Would love to see the inside when you are finished :)
Posted by: Tracy | December 30, 2010 at 04:36 PM
Lisa---I'm just getting to really read thru this---what a treasure you created---I bought a bunch of the calendar pages and haven't used them yet---perhaps I could make one of these binders and refill it every year---What an inspiring post! I hope you'll show us the inside pages when you finish! Thanks Lisa! I hope your holidays were special and you are looking forward to a beautiful 2011!
Posted by: Kathleen | January 01, 2011 at 07:09 PM
Hi Lisa! I So LOVE,LOVE,LOVE this Project! IT'S BEAUTIFUL!!! Did I mention how much I love it?? *lol* You did an amazing job&I am so Thankful You shared it with us. I Pray your Holidays were filled with love&laughter....and that your Cup Runs Over with God's Blessings for the New Year.
Dianna Angele
Posted by: Dianna Angele | January 06, 2011 at 05:33 AM