The latest collections to be added to SG's online store...
• Crate Paper: Bundled Up
• My Mind's Eye: Lost & Found - Record It (both color groups)
• Fancy Pants: Merry Little Christmas
• Echo Park: Times
& Seasons 2; Dots Essentials; Ombre Essentials; Style Essentials;
Beautiful Life; Birthday Wishes Photo Freedom
• Carta Bella:
Beautiful Moments
Click here to shop.
There are also lots of new collections in our Springfield store, including My Mind's Eye Lost & Found - Record It, and Cupid's Arrow.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Can you believe this list?
We've been anxiously waiting to share this list with you -- the ten companies that will be the first to participate in Scrapbook Generation's CREATE, our digital magazine launching in January.
These companies will be "loaning" us their design teams for a special feature each month. We'll send the team four sketches -- a single-page layout sketch, a double-page layout sketch, a greeting card sketch, and a tag sketch. (Allison Davis and Debbie Sanders will each create half of the sketches each month, so you'll see both designers' style.)
The manufacturer's design team members will each make a layout and one of the smaller projects. They'll also be providing insight into what they like about working with SG sketches. Then it will be your turn! The four sketches will be available for you to download directly from the magazine.
Here is how 2014 shapes up for CREATE!
These companies will be "loaning" us their design teams for a special feature each month. We'll send the team four sketches -- a single-page layout sketch, a double-page layout sketch, a greeting card sketch, and a tag sketch. (Allison Davis and Debbie Sanders will each create half of the sketches each month, so you'll see both designers' style.)
The manufacturer's design team members will each make a layout and one of the smaller projects. They'll also be providing insight into what they like about working with SG sketches. Then it will be your turn! The four sketches will be available for you to download directly from the magazine.
Here is how 2014 shapes up for CREATE!
January
Fancy Pants Designs
February
My Mind's Eye
March
Teresa Collins Designs
April
Echo Park Paper
May
Simple Stories
June
Pink Paislee
July
Sizzix
August
Authentique
September
Heidi Swapp
October
Carta Bella
So what do you think of this line-up? We'd love to hear from you!
Monday, October 28, 2013
Magazine progress...
With our new digital magazine -- Scrapbook Generation's CREATE -- moving steadily toward publication in January, we wanted to share a few things with you today.
Submissions for the January Readers Gallery:
The layouts and cards are starting to roll in, from all over the globe! It looks like we won't have any trouble at all filling those pages -- so many beautiful items to choose from. Please keep sending us your work! You have about three more weeks to send us your projects -- the deadline is Nov. 20. To find the sketches your work should be based on, click here.
Manufacturer feature for the January issue:
In a couple of days, we'll be sending the four sketches for January to the first manufacturer to be showcased. We're proud to announce that Fancy Pants Designs and its design team, led by owner Jodi Sanford, will be working with Scrapbook Generation sketches for our very first issue! They will be creating projects based on a double-page layout sketch and a card sketch by Allison Davis, and a single-page layout sketch and a tag sketch by Debbie Sanders.
Later this week:
As soon as we hear back from one manufacturer, we'll be ready to announce the companies lined up for the first 10 months of 2014. As we've said before, you'll be thrilled with all the leading scrapbooking manufacturers that will be working with SG sketches and set to be featured in CREATE.
The CREATE team:
Soon, we'll also be announcing the scrapbookers who will be making up the CREATE team, the magazine's design team. This team is made up of 14 talented scrapbookers who will be undertaking layout challenges each month. We think you'll love what they contribute to the magazine!
Submissions for the January Readers Gallery:
The layouts and cards are starting to roll in, from all over the globe! It looks like we won't have any trouble at all filling those pages -- so many beautiful items to choose from. Please keep sending us your work! You have about three more weeks to send us your projects -- the deadline is Nov. 20. To find the sketches your work should be based on, click here.
Manufacturer feature for the January issue:
In a couple of days, we'll be sending the four sketches for January to the first manufacturer to be showcased. We're proud to announce that Fancy Pants Designs and its design team, led by owner Jodi Sanford, will be working with Scrapbook Generation sketches for our very first issue! They will be creating projects based on a double-page layout sketch and a card sketch by Allison Davis, and a single-page layout sketch and a tag sketch by Debbie Sanders.
Later this week:
As soon as we hear back from one manufacturer, we'll be ready to announce the companies lined up for the first 10 months of 2014. As we've said before, you'll be thrilled with all the leading scrapbooking manufacturers that will be working with SG sketches and set to be featured in CREATE.
The CREATE team:
Soon, we'll also be announcing the scrapbookers who will be making up the CREATE team, the magazine's design team. This team is made up of 14 talented scrapbookers who will be undertaking layout challenges each month. We think you'll love what they contribute to the magazine!
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
99¢ (or free!) shipping offer this week...
Pre-Halloween Sale
October 22-27
• U.S. order ship for only 99¢, and shipping for international orders has been discounted by the same dollar amount.
• U.S. orders over $75 ship free!
• For 20% off the following collections, use coupon code SPOOKY20.
(Authentique's Autumn Seasons, Strong, Lively, Curiosity, Celebrate, and Grace; Carta Bella's Beach Boardwalk and Hello Again; Echo Park's Photo Freedom Fun in the Sun, Happy Little Moments, and Volume 1; Lawn Fawn's Dewey Decimal.
We've added these new and not-quite-new collections to online store:
- American Crafts: Dear Lizzy Lucky Charm
- Authentique: Strong, Lively, Curiosity, Celebrate, Natural, Irresistible, Winter, Glistening, Remembrance, Tradition, Grace
- BoBunny: Silver & Gold (collection packs only)
- Carta Bella: Beach Boardwalk, Hello Again, Well Played, So This Is Christmas
- Crate Paper: Flea Market, Close Knit
- Echo Park: Tis The Season, Reflections Christmas, Photo Freedom: Today's Story, Photo Freedom: Volume 1, Photo Freedom: Happy Little Moments, Photo Freedom: Volume 2, Photo Freedom: Fun In The Sun
- Fancy Pants: wooden titles
- Lawn Fawn: Dewey Decimal
- Pebbles: From Me To You, Front Porch
- Websters Pages: Family Traditions
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Three new kits in online store...
Just added three new multi-layout kits to SG's online store. Click here to hop over to the online store.
Monday, October 21, 2013
Submission call for January issue of CREATE
Scrapbook Generation’s CREATE is thrilled to announce its first-ever call for readers gallery submissions. CREATE is a free digital download magazine that will launch in January in conjunction with SG’s expanded online store.
CREATE will center around sketches and how to use them to best advantage, but will also feature other paper-crafting topics and articles. Best of all, we'll be bringing you inspiration from the top manufacturer's design teams every month as the team members show what they can do with the very latest paper collections and SG sketches. The first issue is projected to contain 120-150 pages!
Starting with the March 2014 issue, readers gallery submissions will be based on the four sketches featured in the magazine. January’s sketches will be used for the March gallery, February’s for the April gallery, and so on.
For the first two magazines, we’ve chosen other SG sketches to be used, and today, we’re sharing the sketches for the January 2014 readers gallery. Choices are single-page layout, double-page layout, or greeting card. All three sketches were designed by Allison Davis, well-known for her inspiring style, and her ability to shine the spotlight on photos and journaling.
The single-page sketch for January's readers gallery...
Download the free single-page sketch above (including dimensions and placements) by clicking here. Create a scrapbook layout using the sketch, then submit it to SG.
The double-page sketch for January's readers gallery...
Download the free double-page sketch above (including dimensions and placements) by clicking here. Create a scrapbook layout using the sketch, then submit it to SG.
The card sketch for January's readers gallery...
Use the free card sketch above (no download necessary). Create a greeting card using the sketch, then submit it to SG.
How to submit for the January 2014 issue of CREATE:
• Submissions should be sent to submissions@scrapbookgeneration.com.
• Be sure to have JANUARY READERS GALLERY as the subject of the email.
• Submissions must be based on one of the three sketches above.
• An individual may submit more than one project, but each project must be sent in a separate email.
• All files should be under 1MB.
• Include your name and address.
• If your submission is chosen for publication, we will contact you with information about sending a second photo meeting more specific requirements, plus a supply list.
• The call for the January 2014 issue ends November 20, 2013.
We're so excited to see how your style merges with SG sketches!
CREATE will center around sketches and how to use them to best advantage, but will also feature other paper-crafting topics and articles. Best of all, we'll be bringing you inspiration from the top manufacturer's design teams every month as the team members show what they can do with the very latest paper collections and SG sketches. The first issue is projected to contain 120-150 pages!
Starting with the March 2014 issue, readers gallery submissions will be based on the four sketches featured in the magazine. January’s sketches will be used for the March gallery, February’s for the April gallery, and so on.
For the first two magazines, we’ve chosen other SG sketches to be used, and today, we’re sharing the sketches for the January 2014 readers gallery. Choices are single-page layout, double-page layout, or greeting card. All three sketches were designed by Allison Davis, well-known for her inspiring style, and her ability to shine the spotlight on photos and journaling.
The single-page sketch for January's readers gallery...
The double-page sketch for January's readers gallery...
Download the free double-page sketch above (including dimensions and placements) by clicking here. Create a scrapbook layout using the sketch, then submit it to SG.
The card sketch for January's readers gallery...
Use the free card sketch above (no download necessary). Create a greeting card using the sketch, then submit it to SG.
How to submit for the January 2014 issue of CREATE:
• Submissions should be sent to submissions@scrapbookgeneration.com.
• Be sure to have JANUARY READERS GALLERY as the subject of the email.
• Submissions must be based on one of the three sketches above.
• An individual may submit more than one project, but each project must be sent in a separate email.
• All files should be under 1MB.
• Include your name and address.
• If your submission is chosen for publication, we will contact you with information about sending a second photo meeting more specific requirements, plus a supply list.
• The call for the January 2014 issue ends November 20, 2013.
We're so excited to see how your style merges with SG sketches!
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Simple Stories giveaway on Allison's blog!
Sketch Week continues on Allison's blog, and she shows how to use October's free download (one-page) sketch to create a super-cute two-page pocket-page layout. She takes you step by step through her creative process, and Simple Stories has generously offered a great prize opportunity!
Click here to go to Allison's blog and join the fun.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Sketch Day Two layouts for October...
LOCAL CUSTOMERS:
We hope you can join us Saturday, October 19 for Saturday sketch sessions by Allison Davis (top layout) and Debbie Sanders (bottom layout).
How it works:
• Pre-register for sessions at 10am or 2pm by calling 417-886-0440;
• Bring basic tools and adhesives;
• Receive two free computer sketches;
• Make one double-page layout, your favorite of the two choices;
• Pay for papers used -- the total usually comes to a little over $4.
Options:
• If you want to make both the layouts from a particular Saturday, order a duplicate set of paper when you register. Order must be placed prior to the Saturday class.
• If you want to purchase the embellishment add-on (shown below), you can order it when you register. (This embellishment is not used on the layout samples shown above, but is offered for those of you who want to add another level of interest and creativity to your pages.) All embellishment add-on orders must be placed prior to the Saturday class.
Kits:
• All kits must be requested before the class activities take place on Saturday.
• Order a kit by calling 417-886-0440.
• The fee for a kit is $5, and is due at the time the request is made.
• If you need the kit shipped to you, the shipping charge is an additional $5.99.
• The best deal for our long-distance customers? Join the monthly Super Sketch Club and get the Super-Saver three layout kit, the Sketch Day One layout kit, and the Sketch Day Two layout kit (materials and sketches for five double-page layouts plus two bonus sketches) for $20 plus $6.99 shipping.
SUPER SKETCH CLUB MEMBERS:
Options:
• If you occasionally want to make both layouts, order a duplicate set of paper online only at scrapbookgeneration.com. (Limited number of extra sets available. Once they sell out, they're gone.)
• If you always want make both layouts, enroll in Super Sketch Club Double Up. For an additional $10 per month, you'll receive a duplicate set of identical materials for the Sketch Day One and Sketch Day Two portions of the club. (By doing this, you will be able to make both Allison layouts and both Debbie layouts shown on the blog each month.)
• You can choose to order the embellishment that coordinates with the layouts this week. The embellishment this week is a $2.99 ephemera pack. This embellishment is not used on the layout samples, but is offered for those of you who want to add another level of interest and creativity to your pages. (Limited number of embellishment add-ons available online only at scrapbookgeneration.com. Once they sell out, they're gone. This add-on does not increase your shipping fee!)
We hope you can join us Saturday, October 19 for Saturday sketch sessions by Allison Davis (top layout) and Debbie Sanders (bottom layout).
How it works:
• Pre-register for sessions at 10am or 2pm by calling 417-886-0440;
• Bring basic tools and adhesives;
• Receive two free computer sketches;
• Make one double-page layout, your favorite of the two choices;
• Pay for papers used -- the total usually comes to a little over $4.
Options:
• If you want to make both the layouts from a particular Saturday, order a duplicate set of paper when you register. Order must be placed prior to the Saturday class.
• If you want to purchase the embellishment add-on (shown below), you can order it when you register. (This embellishment is not used on the layout samples shown above, but is offered for those of you who want to add another level of interest and creativity to your pages.) All embellishment add-on orders must be placed prior to the Saturday class.
Kits:
• All kits must be requested before the class activities take place on Saturday.
• Order a kit by calling 417-886-0440.
• The fee for a kit is $5, and is due at the time the request is made.
• If you need the kit shipped to you, the shipping charge is an additional $5.99.
• The best deal for our long-distance customers? Join the monthly Super Sketch Club and get the Super-Saver three layout kit, the Sketch Day One layout kit, and the Sketch Day Two layout kit (materials and sketches for five double-page layouts plus two bonus sketches) for $20 plus $6.99 shipping.
SUPER SKETCH CLUB MEMBERS:
Options:
• If you occasionally want to make both layouts, order a duplicate set of paper online only at scrapbookgeneration.com. (Limited number of extra sets available. Once they sell out, they're gone.)
• If you always want make both layouts, enroll in Super Sketch Club Double Up. For an additional $10 per month, you'll receive a duplicate set of identical materials for the Sketch Day One and Sketch Day Two portions of the club. (By doing this, you will be able to make both Allison layouts and both Debbie layouts shown on the blog each month.)
• You can choose to order the embellishment that coordinates with the layouts this week. The embellishment this week is a $2.99 ephemera pack. This embellishment is not used on the layout samples, but is offered for those of you who want to add another level of interest and creativity to your pages. (Limited number of embellishment add-ons available online only at scrapbookgeneration.com. Once they sell out, they're gone. This add-on does not increase your shipping fee!)
(Both add-on embellishments and "double-up" paper sets for October are
available now in the online store if you would like to order just once
instead of twice!)
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Go grab your free sketch download for October!
It's download day! Allison has several new sketches you can purchase, and even a couple of cute Halloween mini-bundle options. And like always, we have a free sketch for you to download...hope you enjoy it!
Double Take: $.99
Two two-page sketches from an Allison Davis class held at an SG retreat. The first sketch has three 4 x 6" photos, three 3 x 3" photos and one 2 x 2" photo with lots of strips for the background. The second sketch has four 6 x 4" photos and three 3 x 4" photos with circle accents across the page and 3 x 4" cards.
Four Pack: $1.79
Four two-page sketches from an Allison Davis class. The first sketch has two 4 x 6" photos, three 6 x 4" photos, one 3 x 4" photo, and two 2 x 2" photos with a large background made up of hexagons. The second sketch has one 4 x 6" photos, four 3-1/2 x 5" photos, and two 2 x 2-1/2" photos and has a large strip background with hexagon accents. The third sketch has four 4 x 6" photos and one 4 x 4" photo with a large background and a sun burst title block. The fourth sketch has one 5 x 7" photo, three 3 x 4" photos, and three 3 x 3" photos accented with flourishes, butterflies, and flowers.
Individual #1: $.49
A one-page sketch designed by Allison Davis. The sketch has one 6 x 4" photo, one 4 x 4" photo, and one 2 x 2" photo with large banner strips for the background and accented with flowers and butterflies.
Individual #2: $.49
A two-page sketch designed by Allison Davis. The sketch has one 4 x 6" photo, two 4 x 4" photos, four 4 x 3" photos, and one 2 x 2" photo with a large background accented with strips and butterflies.
Mini-Bundle Halloween Theme #1: $2.29
Five Halloween themed one-page sketches designed by Allison Davis. The first sketch has two 4 x 6" photo with a banner accent. The second sketch has four 4 x 3" photos and two 3 x 4" photos with a fun spider web accent. The third sketch has four 2-1/2 x 2-1/2" photos accented with small banner strips and jack-o-lanterns. The fourth sketch has four 2-1/2 x 3-1/2" photos and three 2 x 2" photos and features a large witch hat. The fifth sketch has two 4 x 6" photos and is accented with ghosts and a star banner.
Mini-Bundle Halloween Theme #2: $2.29
Five Halloween themed two-page sketches designed by Allison Davis. The first sketch has six 4 x 3" photos, two 3 x 4" photos, and one 2 x 2" photo with lots of strips and a spider web accent. The second sketch has four 3-1/2 x 5" photos and three 2 x 2" photos with a background made up of 6 x 6" squares and accented with a big spooky tree and moon and jack-o-lanterns. The third sketch has three 4 x 6" photos, two 2-1/2 x 3-1/2" photos, two 2-1/2 x 2-1/2" photos, and one 2 x 2 photo with large background pieces and accented with ghosts and flourishes. The fourth sketch has two 3 x 5" photos, one 6 x 4" photo, one 3 x 3" photo, one 3 x 4" photo, and three 2 x 3" photos with a large background, a large witch hat, and accented with star banners. The fifth sketch has one 6 x 4" photo, two 3 x 4" photo, four 3 x 3" photos, and one 2 x 2" photo with a big row of jack-o-lanterns across the page.
Sketch Trio: $1.29
Three two-page sketches from an Allison Davis class. The first sketch has three 4 x 4" photos and two 3 x 4" photos with banner strips for the background a striped strip arrangement behind the title. Accented with flowers. The second sketch has four 3 x 3" photos, two 6 x 4" photos, and one 4 x 4" photo with banner strip accents behind the title block. The third sketch has five 4 x 4" photos with a lot of striped strip accents behind the title block.
Free Sketch
Visit SG's website to download the sketch above. It's free! You can keep the sketch in your computer or tablet or print it out -- it's your choice.
Double Take: $.99
Two two-page sketches from an Allison Davis class held at an SG retreat. The first sketch has three 4 x 6" photos, three 3 x 3" photos and one 2 x 2" photo with lots of strips for the background. The second sketch has four 6 x 4" photos and three 3 x 4" photos with circle accents across the page and 3 x 4" cards.
Four Pack: $1.79
Four two-page sketches from an Allison Davis class. The first sketch has two 4 x 6" photos, three 6 x 4" photos, one 3 x 4" photo, and two 2 x 2" photos with a large background made up of hexagons. The second sketch has one 4 x 6" photos, four 3-1/2 x 5" photos, and two 2 x 2-1/2" photos and has a large strip background with hexagon accents. The third sketch has four 4 x 6" photos and one 4 x 4" photo with a large background and a sun burst title block. The fourth sketch has one 5 x 7" photo, three 3 x 4" photos, and three 3 x 3" photos accented with flourishes, butterflies, and flowers.
Individual #1: $.49
A one-page sketch designed by Allison Davis. The sketch has one 6 x 4" photo, one 4 x 4" photo, and one 2 x 2" photo with large banner strips for the background and accented with flowers and butterflies.
Individual #2: $.49
A two-page sketch designed by Allison Davis. The sketch has one 4 x 6" photo, two 4 x 4" photos, four 4 x 3" photos, and one 2 x 2" photo with a large background accented with strips and butterflies.
Mini-Bundle Halloween Theme #1: $2.29
Five Halloween themed one-page sketches designed by Allison Davis. The first sketch has two 4 x 6" photo with a banner accent. The second sketch has four 4 x 3" photos and two 3 x 4" photos with a fun spider web accent. The third sketch has four 2-1/2 x 2-1/2" photos accented with small banner strips and jack-o-lanterns. The fourth sketch has four 2-1/2 x 3-1/2" photos and three 2 x 2" photos and features a large witch hat. The fifth sketch has two 4 x 6" photos and is accented with ghosts and a star banner.
Mini-Bundle Halloween Theme #2: $2.29
Five Halloween themed two-page sketches designed by Allison Davis. The first sketch has six 4 x 3" photos, two 3 x 4" photos, and one 2 x 2" photo with lots of strips and a spider web accent. The second sketch has four 3-1/2 x 5" photos and three 2 x 2" photos with a background made up of 6 x 6" squares and accented with a big spooky tree and moon and jack-o-lanterns. The third sketch has three 4 x 6" photos, two 2-1/2 x 3-1/2" photos, two 2-1/2 x 2-1/2" photos, and one 2 x 2 photo with large background pieces and accented with ghosts and flourishes. The fourth sketch has two 3 x 5" photos, one 6 x 4" photo, one 3 x 3" photo, one 3 x 4" photo, and three 2 x 3" photos with a large background, a large witch hat, and accented with star banners. The fifth sketch has one 6 x 4" photo, two 3 x 4" photo, four 3 x 3" photos, and one 2 x 2" photo with a big row of jack-o-lanterns across the page.
Sketch Trio: $1.29
Three two-page sketches from an Allison Davis class. The first sketch has three 4 x 4" photos and two 3 x 4" photos with banner strips for the background a striped strip arrangement behind the title. Accented with flowers. The second sketch has four 3 x 3" photos, two 6 x 4" photos, and one 4 x 4" photo with banner strip accents behind the title block. The third sketch has five 4 x 4" photos with a lot of striped strip accents behind the title block.
Free Sketch
Visit SG's website to download the sketch above. It's free! You can keep the sketch in your computer or tablet or print it out -- it's your choice.
Extra time slot added!
Lindsey Amschler's Saturday morning card class has become so popular that we're adding a second class time! The morning session is sold out, but we're opening an afternoon session at 2 pm on Saturday, October 26. To register, just call 417-886-0440. Class fee is $15.
Monday, October 14, 2013
It's Sketch Week on Allison's blog...
The free sketch shown above will be available to download on Tuesday, October 15. But for some early inspiration, hop on over to the Allison Davis blog for the beginning of Sketch Week. She goes into great detail about this month's sketch and her interpretation of it. There are some great close-up photos and descriptions of her creative process.
Click here to go to Allison's blog.
Saturday, October 12, 2013
New in SG's Springfield store...
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| Christmas everywhere! Silver & Gold by BoBunny; Tis the Season & Reflections by Echo Park; So This is Christmas by Carta Bella; Snow Village by Pink Paislee; Believe by Heidi Swapp; Christmas Countdown by Bella Blvd. |
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| Reflections by Echo Park |
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| Washi tape by Little B (there are three widths, and the package includes tearing bar, just like regular tape dispensers!) |
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| Albums by KaiserCraft |
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| Albums by KaiserCraft and American Crafts |
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| RSVP by BasicGrey |
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| Project Life themed card sets (of 40-60 cards each), great for pocket page scrapbooking OR traditional scrapbooking -- just think of them as titles and journaling blocks! Themes are school, tropical, boy, girl, teen boy, teen girl, celebrate, family, great outdoors, theme park, winter, spring, summer, fall, road trip, Christian, man's world, floral, dogs, cats, baseball, basketball, football, soccer, golf, tennis, love, mom, dad, graduation, Halloween, Christmas, music, princess, and zoo. |
Thanks from Debbie, Karin, Stacey and Allison!
Thanks so much for all the birthday wishes! We've enjoyed reading the comments here on the blog, on Facebook, and on scrapbooking forums. We can't tell you how much it helps to know that what we do here is instrumental in helping you preserve precious memories.
So, we're signing up for another nine years!
And don't forget that we'll have a birthday celebration sometime this fall, in conjunction with the opening of the expanded online store. We'll do something special for our local AND online customers.
So, we're signing up for another nine years!
And don't forget that we'll have a birthday celebration sometime this fall, in conjunction with the opening of the expanded online store. We'll do something special for our local AND online customers.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
October 11 -- SG's ninth birthday!
What a strange and wonderful experiment this has been! The question: can two sets of sisters who know nothing about retail (other than how to shop) create a successful business?
After nine years of lab work called Scrapbook Generation, I'm happy to report that the answer is a resounding "yes!"
An elementary teacher, a semi-retired school administrator, a graphic designer, and a college student somehow managed to find a new direction in 2004 -- together -- and have never looked back.
In the beginning, all we had to do was order stuff and work in the store. Easy! A little later, we added a few classes and a few crops. However, as time went on and the economy took a turn for the worse, by 2006 that wasn't enough anymore. We added more classes, weekend retreats, literally anything we could think of that would help keep the doors open. It wasn't easy. I worried every single day about money and about what would happen if we failed. I had chart after chart of what we needed to make each day in order to survive. It was a depressing time. One month, April of 2006, we only made $2,000 more than our fixed expenses. I'll never forget that month!
We worked really hard to get people in the store. A series of free classes on products and techniques on Saturdays helped, and soon, we added a free sketch class. The classes were popular, and at some point, one of our customers suggested we bind the sketches into a book and sell them. It seemed like a great idea!
About that same time, we started creating monthly kits. If I were to single out one thing as saving us from going the path of many other local scrapbook stores, I would definitely choose kits. The kits jumped in popularity, and with that regular income generated every month, we began to pull out of the dark days.
Another thing that gave us an edge was the talent of Allison Davis. I so wish I could show you her first layout -- made for a display in the store -- composed pretty much of a couple of strips of paper and a photo! But as she made more and more pages, she began to develop her style. Before we knew it, she had been chosen for the Creating Keepsakes Hall of Fame, and later, for their Dream Team. We loved getting the latest issue of CK and seeing the layouts she created and the articles she wrote!
Along with the faithfulness and support of our local customers, who long ago moved into the friend category, travelers have also been important to us. We credit them as the reason our sketch books and kits reached beyond Springfield, MO and became so popular both here in the United States and internationally. We can't tell you how many times we've been told that "I saw someone using one of your sketch books (or making one of your page kits) at a retreat and now I want to buy them myself." It has been phenomenal. And then there was the explosion of the Super Sketch Club -- all I can say is "wow." This club has transformed our business in ways we never thought possible.
The last few years have been a blur of retreats and special events and sketch books and kits. Incredibly, three years ago we were able to move into the bigger building next door. And just this summer, we were able to expand once again -- back into our former building, turning it into a warehouse for an online store. In just a few months, we'll be publishing our own magazine. April of 2006 is a distant memory, no longer painful, but instead a remembrance of what we overcame to get to this point.
As I look back, I can think of more than a time or two when the four of us disagreed on something. But I'm so very proud of my sister Karin and my daughters Stacey and Allison and the shared experience of working hard toward common goals; creating something -- both successful and rewarding -- from nothing. We have a distinct division of labor based on the skills and talents each possesses, and we use those skills on a daily basis to work together for the good of all. These have been the best nine years of my life. I can't wait to see what's next!
-- Debbie Sanders
After nine years of lab work called Scrapbook Generation, I'm happy to report that the answer is a resounding "yes!"
An elementary teacher, a semi-retired school administrator, a graphic designer, and a college student somehow managed to find a new direction in 2004 -- together -- and have never looked back.
In the beginning, all we had to do was order stuff and work in the store. Easy! A little later, we added a few classes and a few crops. However, as time went on and the economy took a turn for the worse, by 2006 that wasn't enough anymore. We added more classes, weekend retreats, literally anything we could think of that would help keep the doors open. It wasn't easy. I worried every single day about money and about what would happen if we failed. I had chart after chart of what we needed to make each day in order to survive. It was a depressing time. One month, April of 2006, we only made $2,000 more than our fixed expenses. I'll never forget that month!
We worked really hard to get people in the store. A series of free classes on products and techniques on Saturdays helped, and soon, we added a free sketch class. The classes were popular, and at some point, one of our customers suggested we bind the sketches into a book and sell them. It seemed like a great idea!
About that same time, we started creating monthly kits. If I were to single out one thing as saving us from going the path of many other local scrapbook stores, I would definitely choose kits. The kits jumped in popularity, and with that regular income generated every month, we began to pull out of the dark days.
Another thing that gave us an edge was the talent of Allison Davis. I so wish I could show you her first layout -- made for a display in the store -- composed pretty much of a couple of strips of paper and a photo! But as she made more and more pages, she began to develop her style. Before we knew it, she had been chosen for the Creating Keepsakes Hall of Fame, and later, for their Dream Team. We loved getting the latest issue of CK and seeing the layouts she created and the articles she wrote!
Along with the faithfulness and support of our local customers, who long ago moved into the friend category, travelers have also been important to us. We credit them as the reason our sketch books and kits reached beyond Springfield, MO and became so popular both here in the United States and internationally. We can't tell you how many times we've been told that "I saw someone using one of your sketch books (or making one of your page kits) at a retreat and now I want to buy them myself." It has been phenomenal. And then there was the explosion of the Super Sketch Club -- all I can say is "wow." This club has transformed our business in ways we never thought possible.
The last few years have been a blur of retreats and special events and sketch books and kits. Incredibly, three years ago we were able to move into the bigger building next door. And just this summer, we were able to expand once again -- back into our former building, turning it into a warehouse for an online store. In just a few months, we'll be publishing our own magazine. April of 2006 is a distant memory, no longer painful, but instead a remembrance of what we overcame to get to this point.
As I look back, I can think of more than a time or two when the four of us disagreed on something. But I'm so very proud of my sister Karin and my daughters Stacey and Allison and the shared experience of working hard toward common goals; creating something -- both successful and rewarding -- from nothing. We have a distinct division of labor based on the skills and talents each possesses, and we use those skills on a daily basis to work together for the good of all. These have been the best nine years of my life. I can't wait to see what's next!
-- Debbie Sanders
Wednesday, October 09, 2013
Lots of new items added to online store!
New in SG's online store...
Echo Park:
• Jenni Bowlin Photo Freedom
• Oh So Thankful Photo Freedom
• Reflections
• Reflections Fall
BasicGrey:
• 2014 Calendar Kit
• RSVP
Imaginisce:
• Black Ice• Bushels O' Fun
• Colors of Christmas
BoBunny:
• 12x12 Double Dot Cardstock Packs
• 6x6 Double Dot Cardstock Paper Pads
• Autumn Song (collection packs only)
Click here to shop! (Use the list on the left side of the website to go directly to these collections and other items.)
Echo Park:
• Jenni Bowlin Photo Freedom
• Oh So Thankful Photo Freedom
• Reflections
• Reflections Fall
BasicGrey:
• 2014 Calendar Kit
• RSVP
Imaginisce:
• Black Ice• Bushels O' Fun
• Colors of Christmas
BoBunny:
• 12x12 Double Dot Cardstock Packs
• 6x6 Double Dot Cardstock Paper Pads
• Autumn Song (collection packs only)
Click here to shop! (Use the list on the left side of the website to go directly to these collections and other items.)
Tuesday, October 08, 2013
Eighteen kits added to online store!
NEW kits added to online store...
Click here to purchase any of the new or club overstock kits.
Club overstock kits added to online store...
Click here to purchase any of the new or club overstock kits.
October Sketch Day One layouts...
LOCAL CUSTOMERS:
We hope you can join us Saturday, October 12 for Saturday sketch sessions by Allison Davis (top layout) and Debbie Sanders (bottom layout).
How it works:
• Pre-register for sessions at 10am or 2pm by calling 417-886-0440;
• Bring basic tools and adhesives;
• Receive two free computer sketches;
• Make one double-page layout, your favorite of the two choices;
• Pay for papers used -- the total usually comes to a little over $4.
Options:
• If you want to make both the layouts from a particular Saturday, order a duplicate set of paper when you register. Order must be placed prior to the Saturday class.
• If you want to purchase the embellishment add-on (shown below), you can order it when you register. (This embellishment is not used on the layout samples shown above, but is offered for those of you who want to add another level of interest and creativity to your pages.) All embellishment add-on orders must be placed prior to the Saturday class.
Kits:
• All kits must be requested before the class activities take place on Saturday.
• Order a kit by calling 417-886-0440.
• The fee for a kit is $5, and is due at the time the request is made.
• If you need the kit shipped to you, the shipping charge is an additional $5.99.
• The best deal for our long-distance customers? Join the monthly Super Sketch Club and get the Super-Saver three layout kit, the Sketch Day One layout kit, and the Sketch Day Two layout kit (materials and sketches for five double-page layouts plus two bonus sketches) for $20 plus $6.99 shipping.
SUPER SKETCH CLUB MEMBERS:
Options:
• If you occasionally want to make both layouts, order a duplicate set of paper online only at scrapbookgeneration.com. (Limited number of extra sets available. Once they sell out, they're gone.)
• If you always want make both layouts, enroll in Super Sketch Club Double Up. For an additional $10 per month, you'll receive a duplicate set of identical materials for the Sketch Day One and Sketch Day Two portions of the club. (By doing this, you will be able to make both Allison layouts and both Debbie layouts shown on the blog each month.)
• You can choose to order the embellishment that coordinates with the layouts this week. The embellishment this week is a $3.99 set of layered chipboard stickers. This embellishment is not used on the layout samples, but is offered for those of you who want to add another level of interest and creativity to your pages. (Limited number of embellishment add-ons available online only at scrapbookgeneration.com. Once they sell out, they're gone. This add-on does not increase your shipping fee!)
We hope you can join us Saturday, October 12 for Saturday sketch sessions by Allison Davis (top layout) and Debbie Sanders (bottom layout).
How it works:
• Pre-register for sessions at 10am or 2pm by calling 417-886-0440;
• Bring basic tools and adhesives;
• Receive two free computer sketches;
• Make one double-page layout, your favorite of the two choices;
• Pay for papers used -- the total usually comes to a little over $4.
Options:
• If you want to make both the layouts from a particular Saturday, order a duplicate set of paper when you register. Order must be placed prior to the Saturday class.
• If you want to purchase the embellishment add-on (shown below), you can order it when you register. (This embellishment is not used on the layout samples shown above, but is offered for those of you who want to add another level of interest and creativity to your pages.) All embellishment add-on orders must be placed prior to the Saturday class.
Kits:
• All kits must be requested before the class activities take place on Saturday.
• Order a kit by calling 417-886-0440.
• The fee for a kit is $5, and is due at the time the request is made.
• If you need the kit shipped to you, the shipping charge is an additional $5.99.
• The best deal for our long-distance customers? Join the monthly Super Sketch Club and get the Super-Saver three layout kit, the Sketch Day One layout kit, and the Sketch Day Two layout kit (materials and sketches for five double-page layouts plus two bonus sketches) for $20 plus $6.99 shipping.
SUPER SKETCH CLUB MEMBERS:
Options:
• If you occasionally want to make both layouts, order a duplicate set of paper online only at scrapbookgeneration.com. (Limited number of extra sets available. Once they sell out, they're gone.)
• If you always want make both layouts, enroll in Super Sketch Club Double Up. For an additional $10 per month, you'll receive a duplicate set of identical materials for the Sketch Day One and Sketch Day Two portions of the club. (By doing this, you will be able to make both Allison layouts and both Debbie layouts shown on the blog each month.)
• You can choose to order the embellishment that coordinates with the layouts this week. The embellishment this week is a $3.99 set of layered chipboard stickers. This embellishment is not used on the layout samples, but is offered for those of you who want to add another level of interest and creativity to your pages. (Limited number of embellishment add-ons available online only at scrapbookgeneration.com. Once they sell out, they're gone. This add-on does not increase your shipping fee!)
(Both add-on embellishments and "double-up" paper sets for October are available now in the online store if you would like to order just once instead of twice!)
New products at SG!
 |
| All the new SNAP sets from Simple Stories: eight themes, all with pockets, stickers, 3x4 cards and 4x6 cards...and albums! |
 |
| Pebbles: Front Porch and From Me to You |
 |
| Imaginisce: Bushel O' Fall |
 |
| Carta Bella: Rough and Tumble |
 |
| American Crafts: alcohol blending pens |
 |
| Pink Paislee: Hey Kid |
 |
| Heidi Swapp: 12x12 templates |
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