PaperCents.com ScrapLog

Visit my blog at it's new spot.

2011-01-14T14:11:00.000-08:00

I'm getting personal. This blog has felt less personal, more business. And I really liked the idea of making the blog a journal, as it's intended - and of including more photos.

Please visit my new blog at http://mariloujaen.com/ and leave a comment to let me know what you think!

10% of Proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society

2011-01-11T07:40:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year - I have been posting sporadically to this blog, and I am really sorry for the neglect. It's not that I don't love you, really, it's not. It's just I have big plans in the works that are sucking up my attention (but making me super excited).

HOWEVER, I couldn't pass up on participating in a fantastic FUNdraiser being hosted by Miami Springs Middle School. On Saturday, January 15th, they are hosting a "Scrap for the Cause" event, and we'll be there! And as part of the FUNraiser, we will be contributing 10% of all proceeds from now through January 16th to the American Cancer Society, through the school. And if you shop now, not only can you feel good about the great cause you will be supporting, you can also save the big bucks with the coupon listed below. So spread the word, and stock up on some great products for the new year!

Reverb 10 - Prompt One

2010-12-04T19:59:00.000-08:00

December 1 – One Word. Encapsulate the year 2010 in one word. Explain why you’re choosing that word. Now, imagine it’s one year from today, what would you like the word to be that captures 2011 for you? (Author: Gwen Bell)

My 2010 word is Shift - A shift in priorities, in mindset. Watching the kids grow up and feeling like I can't keep up with the changes.

My 2011 word will be Passion - I can teach my kids to follow their passion by finding and following mine. Finding what makes me excited and doing more of that and less of the distractions.

Is it Minimalizing? or Minimizing?

2010-11-08T09:46:00.000-08:00

Whatever it's called, I'm doing it. I've decided I need to get rid of anything in my house that does not add value. This is after spending time on some fantastic blogs, such as: Zen Habits, Far Beyond the Stars, and Becoming Minimalist (most geared to families). All this work getting stuff out is making me scared of the Holidays and all the stuff that's going to come back into my house. SO... I took this preemptive measure. Please feel free to copy and send it along to your friends & family.

************************************************
Hi family,

I have spent the last couple of months trying to reduce the amount of "stuff" in the house. Fun, I know. Partly because I just can't deal with taking care of things that we don't need or love. But also partly to show the kids that less stuff doesn't mean less "happy." It means you can find and see the things you love and use more easily and time not spent tidying and cleaning is time that can be spent playing and relaxing. We'll, we took a van full of stuff to a Girl Scout garage sale, and another pile is going to Goodwill today.

In the spirit of minimalism, I thought I would provide alternative gift ideas - we are all about the "adventure" gifts this year - either with as an activity to do with you (or with us) or as a gift certificate (NOTHING FANCY).

Here are some ideas:
* AMC Movie Gift Certificate (you can get them discounted in bulk)
* Cold Stone Creamery $10 gift card
* Color Me Mine Gift Certificate
* Craft Activities (e.g., Some nice beads for Isabel (jewelry making) or a build-it kit for Ryan)
* Cooking Activities - (e.g., ingredients and showing them how to make something)
* Kindle books for kids

Of course, if you want to buy toys you are welcomed to do that. I have an Amazon wishlist with things I think the kids will like - or they have said they want.
Isabel's Wishlist: [Link to Amazon wishlist]
Ryan's Wishlist: [Link to Amazon wishlist]

************************************************

We're Temporarily Down - Working On It!

2010-10-05T17:25:00.000-07:00

Our Domain Registration expired - I'm working to get it renewed. I hope the site will be back up within a day or two! Sorry for the inconvenience. We don't currently have access to placed orders at the moment either. I'll be issuing $5 gift certificates to anyone with a delayed order.

Pictaculous.com

2010-05-12T09:45:00.001-07:00

Great for Scrapbookers and Digital Artists, Pictaculous.com recommends a color palette for any uploaded photo and let's you save it as a PhotoShop palette (or use the color values like #CB6408). Thanks Graphics.com Newsletter for this great find!

RedLaser iPhone App - Another reason I want an iPhone

2010-04-13T12:52:00.000-07:00

Scan a barcode anywhere and this app will show you where you can buy the product and for how much. Visit the Red Laser website to see it in action...

Anyone else used to love this show?

2010-02-10T07:51:00.000-08:00

FLASHBACK to the 80s!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSLhrIuAZak

I remember running home from school to watch it. I have no recollection of any plots (I'm sure there were none.) There are vague rumors of a comeback of this series. Which proves that we really are all out of new ideas!

Color Scheme Designer

2010-02-10T07:47:00.000-08:00

This tool is great for developing digital and non-digital projects.

http://colorschemedesigner.com/

We are taking a breather from blogging and the like.

2009-10-07T10:26:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the dusty blog. I have been trying to keep up with everything and unable to, so this was one of the victims of my hectic life. It's not gone forever, just until things can get organized and settled.

PaperCents.com is still operating at full speed.

I'll post every now and then: when there is an announcement or sale or just some other good reason to post. :) Thanks for reading!

CHA Summer New Releases - Pink Paislee

2009-07-28T21:59:00.000-07:00

CHA is a much smaller event this year than in the past, with many manufacturers opting to stay home. I actually like this - it is less overwhelming and gives more time to build relationships with the companies and other attendees. And the products that are being shown are beautiful. My top pick so far is Pink Paislee. Why?

1 - The collections include the essentials, but don't go crazy with too many papers and embellishments. Having a few embellishments at reasonable prices makes selling the entire collection much easier, and I think it makes shopping them easier, too.

2 - The products are innovative and high quality. The glitter chipboard - not nearly as pretty online or in photos as they are in person - capture ones attention instantly with their sparkle and font (gorgeous and flexible). The Mistletoe collection has a classic style and color scheme that used for many other themed layouts.

3 - The people are great, and reflect the spirit of the company. Some staff at OTHER booths have been pushy, or even unfriendly. Or they didn't seem to want to be there. The people at Pink Paislee seem genuinely happy to help and grateful for their retailers. It's the same great service I get whenever I deal with them.

For these reasons and more, the Pink Paislee collections are the first we will be selling as pre-orders. They should be available online tomorrow! Get inspired today with their beautiful layouts and project ideas on our Flickr site.

View our Pink Paislee CHA Summer 2009 Photos.

Happy 4th of July - Free Shipping Sale

2009-07-04T08:05:00.000-07:00

Playing with new look & feel - what do you think of this?

2009-06-19T15:03:00.000-07:00

Click to view large image...

Found the super cool font on http://dafont.com: Sybil Green by Larabie Fonts.

Is PaperCents.com too hard to read? What would you change?

Is it better with the original font, like this?

Juggling

2009-06-16T19:21:00.000-07:00

Focusing on what's important these days - my family, my paying job (the 9 to 5 one), a 40 lb puppy, sanity, and slowly adding all the straggling products to the website. Can't believe I have Summer 2008 products still not online.

I have lofty goals for myself pre-CHA Summer 2009. Coming soon - a contest. You can win a prize worth over $350... I can't wait to share. Just one of the things I'm working on in the wee hours of the morning!

I hope you're having a great summer! Follow us on Twitter - I'm MUCH better at posting there than here!! http://twitter.com/papercents

NBC Presents: Community

2009-05-08T13:39:00.001-07:00

Love Joel McHale. Love John Oliver. Love Chevy Chase. I am so looking forward to this!

Source: http://www.nerdist.com/2009/05/joel-mchales-new-show-looks-fantastic.html

Where I've Been

2009-03-03T07:39:00.001-08:00

I've been taking a little break this month. I had bronchitis and figured I needed a slow-down. I am trying to focus on getting work done at work and spending time with family after work. And my new puppy has been a total distraction - but we are really enjoying her. Still working on the biting, though. :) I will be back in full swing soon, I promise.

I do need to catch up on 2008 accounting. Okay, catch up is putting it mildly, I haven't entered one invoice or sales order for last year. Heck, I still have product from 2008 in boxes and not online! Alright, I admit - I'm a tad overwhelmed and the thought of all I have pending that I need to get done. But I'll just tackle it little by little. I have some Pink Paislee new release items to add to the site. And I'll probably cancel the BG Wisteria collection - it's not really selling it in pre-order.

I really appreciate having such great, understanding customers. I look forward to many more years of providing you with the newest product and low prices.

I will need to clear out a lot of inventory by Summer CHA, though! So please tell your friends about our clearance sale and $7.50 flat rate shipping for $75 orders. I also have a bunch of Silhouettes and ultra-low prices - these are great tools... I couldn't craft without mine! I love all the shapes available from QK that are so easy to download. And I also like using Illustrator to cut from it - you can make really cool welded shapes and words...

Love you guys!!!

Better.TV: Online How-Tos

2009-02-04T06:51:00.000-08:00

I'm surfing the how-to videos on the Scrapbooks, Etc. Better TV site today...

1 - To learn how to make these cool projects
2 - To learn how to make the videos themselves
3 - To see if most of what I'd put in the videos is already there.

Where do you go for online how-to's? Do you prefer them as photos/writing or as videos?

CHA products coming soon!

2009-02-02T12:44:00.000-08:00

I am in the process of adding the new releases from BasicGrey and Pink Paislee to the website. I am still debating which other new releases to order, even though that means I've missed some specials. I'd rather under-order this time around and be alive for CHA Summer!

I don't think I'll be ordering the Making Memories release. Here's why... Though just about EVERYONE loves MM - it is EVERYWHERE. It's at my Target, at Michael's. Heck, I wouldn't be surprised to see it at the grocery store or CVS. Everywhere. And I just have a hard time selling products that are everywhere without selling at or below cost. And really... what's the point of doing that?

While I love giving you great deals - a little margin is needed to make this thing worthwhile (and, believe me, the margin is LITTLE). Thank God I have a day job, or there would be no PaperCents.com.

I really try to order product lines that are otherwise hard to find. It is very scary to have have a stock room full of product and find it driving a shopping cart down the scrapbooking aisle at Target!

Tell me why I'm wrong! Leave a comment below.

So, that's my whining for the month - mostly done for educational purposes, I swear. Next month's whine? The high cost of shipping - it really costs us at least as much as we charge. It is ridiculously expensive to ship paper (which is heavier than you might think!)

CHA Product Survey

2009-01-23T06:08:00.000-08:00

Complete our five-question CHA survey now, and you'll be registered for a chance to win $25 in FREE CHA Winter '09 product!

Begin Survey

Update: I thought you might be interested in how people are voting so far! Here are the brands people love (5) or hate (1)... as of 1:34PM EST. Click for larger view.

Another Survey Update: Here are some brands/products you'd like to see added to PaperCents.com.

"Crate Paper - whole line - paper and their embellies, die cuts
October Afternoon - paper & stickers - don't care about their die cuts
American Crafts - This should be number one - all time fave company - love everything they make but especially their papers, thickers and rubs."
I don't follow specific brands too much - I just look for clean and simple designs and the availability of coordinating products.
My Minds eye
Fancy Pants (paper)
I am happy with the brands you carry.
I love everything from Bo Bunny, Maya Road, Heidi Grace, October Afternoon, Melissa Frances. I like My Mind's Eye, Crate Paper, Creative Imaginations, Tim Holtz. I would like to have as many products as possible from each line. I really prefer to be able to purchase everything from one site...the paper, embellishments, chipboard, etc. I'll stop because this list could be so long!
Not sure.
"3 Bugs in A Rug
Daisy Bucket"
"Crate paper
dream street
I really like all inclusive kits and don't mind spending more if it makes it easier and less time involved"
Creative Imaginations, Creative Cafe, Art Warehouse - love their stamps, swatchbooks and papers
"October Afternoon- papers, clear stamps, rub-ons and embellishments Hero Arts- Stamps"
"Adorn It sets
Bella Blvd
Sassafrass
Mostly like papers but also bold rubons and embellies"
Bazzil Basics
I Love Black Market Paper Society!! Get these papers :)
More American crafts
Disney papers.
Jenni Bowlin (if you don't already have?)
"Bo Bunny - papers, embellies, kits
Stampers Anonymous - Tim Holtz stamps"
October Afternoon...ALL OF IT!! :)
More Heidi Swapp ghost things. Some divided page protectors if you haven't added them yet...
"I love everything October Afternoon
Sassafras Lass papers and embellishments"
LOVE October Afternoon! Fun new stuff too http://octoberafternoon.typepad.com/
"Hambly Studios
paper, transparencies, rub-ons"
I love all that you have! Ribbon and brads that would coordinate as well as suggested Stickles that would coordinate to collections would be a great help.
Oh I wouldn't change a thing. Your products are great!
Sassafras Lass papers, stamps
Wish Blade replacement blades and mats
American Crafts - their papers, thickers, and embellies!
American Craft, Coordinations
Bo-Bunny Press
"fancy pants- all the coordinates
my minds eye- all the coordinates
crate- all the coordinates"
Not sure.
My minds eye - paper and embellishments
You have already listed my favorite.
I really love October Afternoon products.
"Ohter lines that I like a lot are Sassafra Lass, Little Yellow Bicycle, Daisy Bucket, We R Mermory Keepers,Bo Bunny, Fancy Pants and My Mind's Eye.
I hope that you that soon I can buy in your store."
Cuddle bug, Sizzix dies
I really love Kimberly Poloson's collections and can hardly wait to get Nature's Flora Collection.
The new DCWV paper pads.
"American Crafts
Kokuyo
Bazzill cardstock"
Teresa Collins
little yellow bicycle
"7 Gypsies
Technique Tuesday"
I can't think of any brands that you are missing...:)
You already carry my 3 favorite brands!
Nothing really - like distressed, more bohemian style instead of loud, graphic or cute.
"K&Company--their papers are great and colorful, cheery. Any of their products are wonderful.
Mary Englebreit papers, etc. Don't know if anyone sells/can sell these products.
Prima's 'Got Flowers'--really cute. They also have 'Iced Got Flowers'.
Always looking for styrofoam, pins (pearl heads or glass in colors), sequins."
Fancy Pants or Little Yellow Bicycle - love their papers and embellies
I think you should carry more ribbon. I love the American crafts ribbons you had.
More We R Memory Makers Albums
Tim Holtz and Ranger Arts
Sassasfrass Lass - October Afternoon - Paper and embellishements
Bazzill Cardstock in as many colors as possible
i love american crafts as well.
"October Afternoon
Sassafras Lass"
Tweezerbee, Cutterbee (TOOLS)
Little Yellow Bicycle
"Prima flowers
We R Memory Keepers"
"Sassafras Lass - everything
Hambly - everything... well, paper and rub ons."
webster's pages, cherry arte, october afternoon, glitz
Bo Bunny, teresa collins,
"Collage Press papers
October Afternoon Papers
Sassafras Lass papers"
bobunny,
"Anna Griffin - All
My minds eye - All"
"I love packs that are all inclusive... papers and embellishments. Everything already matches and are included.
I would also like to see more baby boy things."
"Coordinating embellishments are always good!
Prima is a fav of mine, too. And it looks like they are venturing into paper."
"Jenni Bowlin - papers and embellishments.
Hambly - I have the hardest time finding their papers & transparencies. Love their rub-ons too.
October Afternoon - always love their products.
College Press - has a great patterned papers."
"love bo bunny and fancy pants as well as heidi grace
i love it all"
K and company- paper, embellies etc.
"Technique Tuesday - clear stamps
Imaginisce - paper pads
Crate Paper - packages of paper(not individual sheets)"
"fancy pants
american crafts"
I guess I sort of lean towards the cutesy side so I love Bo Bunny. I also love K&Company and Daisy D's.
"I really like Heidi Grace as well.
papers mostly but sticker sheets too.
Better variety of thanksgiving/fall papers too"
Prima Marketing--papers & flowers
"7gypsies- Photo & ATC carousel. 7gypsies- Tags, stamps.
Organization products"
"There is this new one: Bella Blvd. their complete lines are very pretty!
The rest I like you carry them already."
Can't think of much...you carry lots of great stuff.
none that I can think of right now
"Glossy extras-Heidi Swapp
Pattern Paper-October Afternoon
Snowflakes-American Craft
Decorative Edge Tablet & Album-Love Letters-Little Yellow Bicycle
Snowflake plastic sheet-KI Memories"
"Sassafras Lass- love papers, embellishments, alpha stickers, stamps, journal stickers
October Afternoon- love all products
American Crafts- their newest lines(everyday, travel, romance)"
imaginesce
Sassafras Lass papers
I love Kaisercraft embellishments and I really like some of the Tim Holtz/Ranger stuff. I especially love Stickles.
I like Bo Bunny. I love cuttlebug embossing folders, Spellbinders dies, Stamps Happen stamps.
Imagenesce? paper stickers.. all of it.
Keiser Craft is nice.
fancy pants is a wonderful brand! Would love for yo to carry there paper, fibers, cardstocks, chipboard, acrylic pieces.
"Fancy Pants
Bo Bunny"
October Afternoon
"I would love to see some green products , some European vintage stuff, postcards, charms, baggage tags etc and more from the young designers at like from Etsy
also some gypsy, hippie not so in the box embellies"

CHA, Obama, and More

2009-01-22T11:05:00.001-08:00

It's been a while! So, I thought I'd do a catchup post.

Inauguration - Wow! My 3 and 6 year old both got to watch it on TV during school. I was so glad they did! In the evening, I asked my little guy...

What is the new President's Name?
- Obaaama
Oh, Obama for your Mama?
- NOOOO. Baraaaack Obaaaama. (Think tone: You're a moron, mom.)

Puppy - You may have heard that our family got a puppy a few weeks ago. This is my first dog ever and it has been quite a transition, but she is melting our hearts and learning so much! She's a 9 week old black mix: golden retriever/black lab. I must post pictures.

CHA Winter 2009 starts Sunday! We are cutting back like you are, so we are staying home for this one (we'll definitely drive to Orlando for CHA Summer, though!). I figured I'd rather put the money to PRODUCT! But since we would like to spend wisely, I'd LOVE to hear what products/brands you most want us to get. I'll post a survey (tomorrow, I hope) for you, but until then - I'd love your comments!!! To those going - ENJOY!!! We'll catch you at the next one.

The Boss Kut Gazelle is now Vista 64 Compatible

2009-01-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

From BossKut:
******************
Boss Kut announces that Gazelle is one of the few personel die cutters which now work with Microsoft Vista 64. There have been several inquiries as to when this would be available and you can now tell your customers that the Vista 64 driver is available for the Gazelle.
******************

Click here for more information about the Boss Kut Gazelle.

If you are interested in purchasing a Boss Kut Gazelle, we can order one for you! SRP is $529. E-mail me for our price (it's too low to post). We will do our best to beat any price online!

Happy Tuesday!

Font Organizing

2009-01-05T08:32:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I've got the organizing bug, so on that theme...

If you are like me, you have hundreds (or thousands) of fonts that you downloaded for free from various sites (my fav: DaFont.com - very organized, great fonts). Digging through these fonts can be challenging. I have two software recommendations for you that will help.

First a tip: DO NOT INSTALL ALL YOUR FONTS. This will terribly slow down your software, like Word, Illustrator, etc. because it tries loading them. Install your most used and leave the rest organized in a folder (on your machine or external hard drive). I have mine on both my main computer and a backup on an external hard drive - ready to use on any machine I'm near!

Okay, now that we have settled that - I have tried digging through all my fonts and putting them in sub folders based on theme, style, etc. I have never gotten past the "B"s. Yes, I have way too many fonts.

But I have do have many fonts organized in sub folders (the ones included on the PaperCents.com Font CD that comes with the Silhouette and Wishblade). And to sort through them and find the perfect font, I use AMP Font Viewer. It has worked splendidly for a long time. AND IT'S FREE.

You can preview many fonts at once and jump through your uninstalled fonts without having to install them. You can also categorize them here, but I prefer sorting them into sub folders. It's more permanent and flexible that way.

My new favorite font software is FontExpert, which I will probably purchase today (trial version expired). It costs $60, so you really need to be a font geek. I justify the cost in time saved.

After using the trial version, I'm kind of addicted. I have found it to be faster and easier to use than AMP Font Viewer. Also, I can organize the font files right in FontExpert. With AMP Font Viewer, I have to use Windows Explorer as well, and it's much more time consuming. You can try before you buy, so try it out and let me know what you think!

Do you have a favorite font software? I'd love to try it before I buy FontExpert!

And here are my font categories, if you are interested: _favorites (underscore keeps it at the top of the list), all-boy, all-girl, dingbat, fancy, funky, letterbat, plain-simple, print-cut-outline (for cutting the negative out), retro, script-handwriting.

Introducing the BasicGrey Bittersweet Collection

2008-12-16T08:39:00.000-08:00

Okay, what can I say? I'm in LOVE with this collection! Too cheesy? Too bad! It's totally true. See for yourself!

This collection is available for pre-order, so buy it now to get it FIRST! It should be in stock early to mid January. We'll keep you posted (for any item, check the pre-order link for the most current estimated arrival date).

From now until it arrives in stock, get the entire Bittersweet collection at an extra 10% off! {Shop Now}

And, because you TOLD us what you wanted - we are giving it to you! Check out the three gorgeous layout ideas we've included with the collection and how easy it is to add the products used to your cart!

Are you fame hungry? Do you have a layout you'd like us to feature? Just e-mail us an image of your layout (recommended file size 550x550 jpg) and a list of the products you used that we sell!

Photojojo & Akihiro Furuta

2008-12-11T09:10:00.000-08:00

I fell in love with Akihiro Furuta's fun style for family portraits, and I can't wait to try some of these out! I think they capture the personality of the family way more than your standard "white shirt & blue jean" shots. What a treasure - to have pictures like this of yourself and your parents. More Akihiro Furuta photos.

Our source for this awesomeness is Photojojo, of course: Take Family Portraits That Break the Rules If you aren't already, you seriously need to sign up for the Photojojo newsletter - you'll get loads of great ideas that are easy to do. And most can be done with your regular point and shoot digital camera!

Tim Holtz: 12 Tags of Christmas

2008-12-08T08:41:00.000-08:00

If you haven't been following Tim Holtz's series, 12 Tags of Christmas, you've been missing out! Check it out here. Intermediate scrappers will love integrating his techniques into scrapbook layouts, cards, and other projects.

I personally have taken many trips to Michael's to try out these new tricks. I've been disappointed with what's available in stores and online - particularly with the selection and prices!

If you are interested in purchasing his products, please fill out the online poll and/or leave us comments about what you'd like to see us carry. Then, maybe I can justify ordering them (I hate paying full price for stuff so much that I'd rather buy the whole lot and sell it!).

Congratulations and Special Offers

2008-12-03T13:35:00.000-08:00

Congratulations!
1 - Congrats to Sheila, winner of our Trick or Treat Survey Raffle. She won a $25 PaperCents.com Gift Certificate.

2 - Congrats to Magpie, winner of our Blog Link competition! She got a Cosmo Cricket Haunted product kit!

3 - Congrats to you! You are the potential winner of a $25 PaperCents.com Gift Certificate. Read more below...

Special Offers
Special Offer 1 - $7.50 Flat Rate Shipping (US only) on Orders of $75 or more!

Special Offer 2 - Special Offer - Buy the QK Silhouette for $265.99 (over 25% Off)... Get a $25 Off Coupon for your next purchase!

If you already have a Silhouette, or if it's not in the budget this year, don't fret, we've got something for you too!

Special Offer 3 - Get a $25 Gift Certificate when someone you refer buys one (5 friends = $125 to spend)!

So, tell your friends about Special Offers 1 & 2! Post the offers in forums and on blogs. And be sure they include your e-mail or username in the Customer Notes field! I'll make it easy... copy & paste this:

One of my favorite online stores, PaperCents.com, is having a sale. You can get the QK Silhouette for just $265.99 (28% Off SRP)... AND you'll get a $25 gift certificate with your purchase. Plus, they have flat rate shipping (just $7.50). Please include my username (YOUR USERNAME), so they know I sent you! If you do, they will add a goodie to your order.

Silhouette Related Links:
http://www.quickutz.com/qk2/silhouette/
http://www.scrapbook.com/forums/showtopic.php?tid/1413053/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyOjnn1Qr10

Belated Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-12-01T07:14:00.000-08:00

It seems I have been a slacker. Was my last post really on November 17th?

Well, I'm working on a how-to for you that should be ready in a day or two. Today, I need to catch up on orders from Thanksgiving weekend. For Thanksgiving, we all went to Orlando with my parents. SeaWorld and Animal Kingdom.

Highlights: Our gross miscalculation of how ready our kids were for the 3-D Bug's Life movie... which is ALL about scaring small children, it seems. My six year old and three year old were both crying their eyeballs out and had an early exit.

And the bugs weren't done messing with my kids yet! Big drama involving my son REALLY needing to go. We pulled over to let him pee in the grass. Ended up standing in an ant hill and Ryan and I got attacked by red ants. Apparently, he's allergic. He got just three bites, but they swelled up big time. He had red dots all over - I was freaking out thinking they were MORE bites - nope, just hives. I was very thankful we were 6 miles from the rest stop and got him Benadryl before it was too bad.

He is fine and I stayed home with him today. But I'm seriously rethinking that strategy! I'm pretty sure he's ready to go back to school now!

I hope you had a safe holiday with your family! And now that it's shopping season - let me know if I can help you pick the perfect scrapbooking gift for someone. PaperCents.com e-mail gift certificates are great for last minute gifts or for picky scrappers! And make sure to sign up for the Special Offers newsletter for our holiday sale.

The Slice is Here!

2008-11-17T08:34:00.000-08:00

I'm not really sure why it took so long, but I have finally added the MM Slice items online! And just for you...

Blog Exclusive! Spend $25 the Making Memories Slice section and get a Making Memories Slice apron with your order (Use Coupon Code: MM*APRON).

Hurry! This offer is available through 11/25/08 or while supplies last. (If we run out of aprons, we'll include another goody for you.)

Genius MousePen

2008-11-06T09:00:00.000-08:00

I really, really want this... But I can't figure out WHY! I'm terrible at drawing, though my husband is amazing at it. He won't want it, though. I love crafting - though I'm not great a that either. Let's just say, I'm a frustrated artist. And I really don't have a NEED for this. I just want it! Do you have one? What do you do with it?

What I know: This device lets you control the computer cursor with a pen (vs. mouse). So, you can draw, color, and use PhotoShop tools with it. That's all I really know. What I don't know (yet): What I'D do with it... I love gadgets, what can I say?

11/17 update: So proud of myself! I resisted the urge to buy yet another unnecessary gadget - that's more money for inventory! ;)

And the Winner Is....

2008-11-05T08:30:00.000-08:00

... Commenter #8 - That's Tish! Please e-mail your full name and mailing address to marilou@PaperCents.com

And now for a brand new ScrapLog raffle contest! To enter:

1. Post a link to http://PaperCents.com or http://blogspot.PaperCents.com on your blog.

2. Post a link to your blog (with the PaperCents.com link) in a comment on our blog.

Every blog/link submitted is entered to win either an SEI Poppy Kit or a Cosmo Cricket Haunted Kit - you pick! The deadline to enter is November 30th.

Here are two images you can use for your link!

Happy Election Day 2008!

2008-11-04T07:28:00.001-08:00

If you're reading this, chances are you are not standing in line waiting to vote right now... or that you are way cooler than I am and have an iPhone. (I've got the Helio Ocean, but I find that browsing is still a bit more painful than it's worth.)

I am very excited to see long lines because it means people are participating! However, I'm definitely rethinking my "the lines will be shorter on Election Day than during early voting" strategy...

Almost as importantly... I have added New! Doodlebug products to the website - about time, right!? And there are also new Pre-Order Doodlebug products (should ship late November).

And the new BasicGrey Wassail Christmas collection is available online for pre-order. It should be shipped to us this week sometime. So, you see... I've been busy! But keep checking back - I have a lot more product to add to the store (Making Memories, SEI, 3 Bugs In A Rug, Scenic Route... And I'll keep you posted when I do!

Remember, the new Doodlebug is part of the Trick or Treat Sale that ends tomorrow! As promised, all of the "Treat" sales are now listed on the Sales & Special Offers tab.

P.S. My favorite item added online: The 2009 BasicGrey Calendar Kit (SRP $20, our price $17)

First Annual Trick or Treat Sale

2008-10-29T23:20:00.001-07:00

A trick or a treat? Click to see!

Happy Halloween! It is our THREE YEAR ANNIVERSARY, and I'm so excited to announce our First Annual Trick or Treat Sale. (We did an Easter Egg Hunt once, and it was a lot of fun!)

Here's how it works... Scattered around PaperCents.com are icons like the one above. Just click it to see if it's a Trick or a Treat (Super Deal). Each Treat has a code (find the black circle). Collect all 13 codes and you will be able to make a phrase... the answer to "What is PaperCents all about?"

Send us your codes, the sale title (orange and black), and 13-letter phrase by midnight November 2nd, and you'll get a special surprise. It's easier that it sounds - nothing will be hidden too far into the main categories.

Don't worry if you can't play along, we will post all sales on the Sales and Specials tab on Nov 3rd. Please comment if you have any questions!

Did you click the link above? Congrats you got your first Treat! (Just 12 more to go.) Click here to complete the super short survey.

How DO you pronounce Jaen?

2008-10-21T07:11:00.000-07:00

My married last name has been the source of many bad pronunciations. Not that I blame anyone. But after two weeks of hearing it butchered during jury duty, I was inspired to find an easy way to explain the pronunciation. So I Googled it. (How did we survive without Google?)

My first guess was HA-EN, and I was close. Variations I found: hä-ĕn', hä-ˈān, Jayyān‎ (I don't understand this one). I think mine is probably the easiest to interpret after all. But hä-ĕn' looks much cooler!

If you were wondering where the name comes from... My husband is from Panama (the country, not the city in Florida). Jaen is a province in Spain: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaen.

Click the play button on the Forvo.com - Jaen page to listen to my last name pronounced in Spanish.

Just a Quick Update on Me...

2008-10-15T16:24:00.000-07:00

I'm on Day 6 of Jury Duty... We should be done by Friday, but it's going to be a tough one! I'll be back at work next week, with mixed feelings. It will be good to get back into a routine, but I have enjoyed jury duty and will go back to a LOT of work!

I got my taxes filed (yesterday), thank goodness! I felt a huge weight lifted off of me when I finished. (I was so anxious that I developed an eye twitch.) Now I can get back to the 20 other things I need to handle!! And I promised my husband AND myself that I'd start 2008 bookkeeping now and be done with Q1-3 by the end of the year. I don't want to be this stressed out and distracted again next year for sure. I need to add items online that are in boxes in my garage from the following brands: Making Memories (Paperie line), SEI (Oasis and Glitzmas lines), Scenic Route, and 3 Bugs in a Rug. I THINK that's it!

It is our Three-Year Anniversary at PaperCents.com! I can't believe it either! I am looking forward to a nice sale to celebrate. I have a garage full of shipping boxes that need to be USED and quickly! Or we may never see the garage floor again.

Make sure you are signed up for our Newsletter, so you won't miss the sale! It should go out in the next week or two. (But I've said this before!)

Making Memories Slice - New Die Cut Tool

2008-10-05T17:35:00.000-07:00

Making Memories will be releasing its Slice Die Cut Tool this month. I got to play with one at CHA and here's my take:
What I liked:
* It's the most portable electronic one I have seen. Won't hog your crop table or bag.
* Battery powered, so no fighting for electric outlets.
* Easy to use - can find shapes and resize easily

What I didn't like:
* Cut one shape at a time. Letter by letter, shape by shape. Takes longer than the Silhouette or Cricut.
* Cartridges. I am not a fan of these, as they can really drive up the price of a tool. (I love that the Wishblade and Silhouette do not require any additional font or design purchases.)

But I want to know what YOU think! Does the world need yet another die cut machine? Take the poll below, and leave a comment! I will send one free Making Memories Slice Apron to a random lucky comment writer.

I'm still undecided on carrying the tool at PaperCents.com. I fear it will be readily available at Michael's and other big retailers and carrying cartridges in stock scares me! But your feedback could change my mind!

It's Not that I Don't Love You, It's Just...I'm Seeing Someone Else

2008-10-02T16:44:00.000-07:00

And her name is... QuickBooks. I have my appointment with my Tax Accountant Monday at 11:30 AM. By then, I need to have entered all vendor invoices, receipts, sales orders, mileage, and more. I'm 70% done. But I will finish by Monday. I will, I will, I will!

And after I do, expect a major sale, many new products that are sitting in our storage, but not online yet (hate that!). They include new releases from Scenic Route, SEI, Three Bugs In A Rug. Thickers, Bazzill 8.5x11 paper packs in Doodlebug colors. Doodlebug and Making Memories products are arriving any day now and are also not online yet - but they WILL be!

No stress. See why I haven't blogged in days? :)

Here's a sale for you while I enter panic mode: QuicKutz Silhouette for $275 and free shipping on your entire order! Ends October 12th. While supplies last.

Okay, just because I keep getting asked. Twitter is

2008-09-28T19:37:00.001-07:00

Twitter is to Blogging what IM is to E-mailing. Get it?

It is the Instant Messaging version of Blogging, but your IMs are broadcasted to all your followers. Tweets are 140 character maximum in length, meaning no pressure to come up with greatness. I have learned a ton in the month or so I've been "tweeting." I have also found that Google LOVES Twitter. I have had a few of my tweets be #1 on the page ranks. Why? Because Google LOVES frequently updated content.

What to do? Post once an hour to once a day letting people know what you're up to.

What not to do? Post only business sales pitches (The point is to build relationships. ) Post less than 7 times a week.

Hey, if Rick Sanchez can figure out Twitter... so can you!

Favorite LSS + Favorite Designer = :)

2008-09-26T11:31:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited to hear that our very own featured designer will be teaching classes in November and December at my favorite LSS! That's right, check out La Verne Boese's classes at Scrapbooks N Stuff. The calendar hasn't been posted, but I'll update this blog post when it is. I'm so excited - what a great team!

I was lucky enough to have lunch with La Verne today. And coincidentally, I'll be scrapping for a few hours on Sunday (it's all I can fit in). Care to join me? I plan to be there from noon to 2PM. I'll be the one who is unable to make even the minor decision about my layout who gets about half a page done per hour!

Scrapbooks N Stuff just feels like home. It's where I learned to scrapbook, and I've been their customer since 2002 (Customer #295, that's me!). I also met one of my bestest friends, Stephanie, there.

The owners and the girls that work there are informed and can TEACH. That's something you won't find at a Michael's, JoAnn's, or Target.

(And if you're looking for a great store in Broward, be sure to checkout Scrapbook Central.)

Need inspiration? Studio Calico's Got Some

2008-09-22T11:25:00.001-07:00

When in a creative funk, inspiring scrapbook projects really help!

If you are online a lot, you probably already know about Studio Calico. If not, let me introduce you!

Today, I'm feeling a bit low on inspiration. I went over to Studio Calico's Design Team Gallery and let the slideshow run on my monitor. It's still running now.

Everytime I look over, I see a new beautiful project. What could be better?!

Another Great Find: GTDtimes.com

2008-09-18T19:16:00.000-07:00

I found another great resource from Twitter. Did I mention I'm a fan?

GTDtimes.com. It's all about Getting Things Done. Great articles on prioritization and productivity.

Just don't spend too much time on it - that would defeat the purpose!!

One more reason to love Twitter!

2008-09-16T20:40:00.001-07:00

Okay, if it wasn't enough to just spy on random people all day... Twitter has another reason to be loved. That is: Twitter folk can be very informative. Take Ms. ArtistTaraReed. She posted about having gotten her misterretro filter working with PhotoShop CS3. I figure, she's an artist; if she has this filter, I want to know more! So I went to http://www.misterretro.com and MAN is it super cool.

They have amazing filter effects that I really, really want to play with now!! The image above was a three-color, standard font image... Nothing interesting. But when the distress filter is applied, it becomes so rich and full - I just love it! I can see myself using that to print titles or journaling for my scrapbook projects or cards. Even home decor. Of course for graphic design (if I ever get around to sending out a newsletter!)

My first purchase though will be the Snappy Hour Invitation Kit. I can use the fonts, the dingbats, and the vector images to cut on my Silhouette or Wishblade. Didn't I tell you it was cool. Not only for cutting of course, these would be GREAT for digital scrapbooking - something I have not yet ventured into, due to computer overload (when it's your job, your hobby should AVOID it). And you could also use it for... INVITATIONS, I guess. :) Like the sample invite shown here, perfect for your Halloween parties!

Etsy has the Coolest Stuff!

2008-09-11T09:32:00.000-07:00

Okay, is this not the cutest little plush doll you ever saw? Made by GirlCalledRic and sold on Etsy. If you are ever looking for unique, special gifts... nothin' beats Etsy!

Etsy is an online store featuring all kinds of products handmade by people from all over the world! Visit GirlCalledRic's Store. (Note: I found GirlCalledRic's cutie dolls via Craftzine article! Check them out on Twitter...

Elsie Flanigan, super-talented artist and the designer of "Love, Elsie," also has an Etsy store that I love! Visit it here! I bought two adorable pirate prints for my son's bedroom there. (This was an expensive blog post - I just bought these two Original ACEO (Art Cards) from the store!)

Internet Find: Google Chrome

2008-09-03T19:36:00.000-07:00

Google Chrome - the latest new tool from the Google empire. It's a brand new internet browser that I absolutely LOVE. So simple, clean in design.

I usually have to switch between IE7 and Firefox to get things to work (some sites require one some the other). I've been able to get everything working with this cool new product.

Find out more or download it now at http://www.google.com/chrome.

Favorite Item of the Day: Pink Paislee Black Icons Press-Ons

2008-09-02T20:44:00.000-07:00

My favorite item ordered today: definitely the Pink Paislee Black Icons Press-Ons! Well, to be fair, I love all their Press-Ons! Order this item (PP-00101) tomorrow (Sept 3rd) and get two free sheets of Pink Paislee paper with your order.

Enjoy!

10 Things I Can't Live Without... (That I Didn't Have 5 Years Ago)

2008-08-28T20:31:00.000-07:00

Okay, round one of my work project is over and done with. I'm catching up on the things I have neglected, and getting back into the routing of things. I still have a ton of work to do at work and at home. But no more programming until 2AM in the morning, thank goodness!

Here's my post of the day - short as it may be!

10 Things I Can't Live Without... (That I Didn't Have 5 Years Ago)

1. Memory Foam Pillow
2. Oral B/Braun Electric Toothbrush
3. Internet Browser Tabs (Tip: Press the CTRL key when clicking a link to open it in a new tab!)
4. SnagIt - Revolutionary Print Screen software - Sounds lame, but it is life changing!
5. Google
6. PaperCents.com!!
7. TiVo
8. External Hard Drives
9. Point and Shoot HiRes Digital Camera (with movie recording - kept in purse at all times!)
10. Crocs (Both my kids can put them on in seconds)

What's on your Top 10?

Bare Minimum

2008-08-20T20:41:00.000-07:00

That's what I've doing these past two weeks. Bare minimum means getting orders shipped and replying to customer e-mails. That's it.

I have boxes of new product to unpack and mark as in stock. I have QK Silhouettes to put on major sale. I have a website development invoice to send a client (read: hours of work to get paid for!). I have A LOT to do.

But my first priority right now is getting my Order Management application done for work. It is a beast, and it MUST be completed by Friday, and I've been working crazy hours to get it done (many 2AM nights!). So I am REALLY looking forward to SATURDAY. When I can start dealing with the rest of my life.

So, this is why my blogging has slacked. It's why I don't tweet as much as I used to. It's why I haven't sent an e-mail newsletter in a month. And why my treadmill gathers dust. But a paycheck is a paycheck! And I'm ALMOST done! :)

Here are some pictures from my kids' first day back at school: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mariloujaen/sets/72157606855012395/

Tropical Storm Fay

2008-08-18T08:26:00.000-07:00

A tropical storm is coming. This has resulted in both of my kids' schools being closed for Monday and Tuesday. My husband's work (FIU) is also closing at 2PM and all day tomorrow. My work? Not so much.

We NEVER close. Unless, MAYBE, a hurricane is 10 minutes away. Technically, I believe it must be a Hurricane Warning for us to shut down. This is absolutely fine for me today, since I still have this huge project to finish. It's easier to get it done at the office than at home with two bored kids (age 3 & 6 - not at the age where they ignore me yet).

Anyway, I'm thankful that all the stock for PaperCents.com is in my house - not in a far away warehouse or store. I can't imagine having to lock up multiple locations.

I'm thankful that my husband replaced the shutters someone stole from our backyard, so the stockroom can be protected, if Fay becomes a hurricane and turns our way.

I am hopeful that there won't be any interruptions to order packing or shipping. I'll post any relevant updates here, (e.g., if the post office is closed). I did drop off the morning USPS orders before work, which worked out well. And I'll run to FedEx at lunchtime.

Best of luck with the storm to all my fellow Floridians! Safety first. Stuff second.

My "Adorable" Little Thief

2008-08-12T08:17:00.000-07:00

I realize that a six year old has a limited concept of what is okay for her to take from a closet and what isn't. She sees us take things and use them or move them. So when she took a pack of gum from the pantry and horded it in her bedroom - chewing gum as she saw fit, I didn't get too mad, but I had a word with her. I told her she can't just take things without asking. And she can't chew gum whenever she fancies. She seemed to acknowledge her mistake, especially after I banned her from any more gum.

Well, this weekend I had her help me pack an order. Help being relative to what a six year old can do... she counted bottles of Doodlebug Sugar Coating glitter for me. For her help, I treated her to one low-cost item in the stock closet (I have a stock room next to the garage and a closet in the dining room). She debated and debated between the "adorable" Doodlebug Halloween Sugar Coated Rub-ons ("they have faces.. they are so cute!"). But ultimate chose the other option, the Doodlebug Christmas Sugar Coated Rub-ons. That was Saturday.

Yesterday, she stayed home with my in-laws (in town from Panama, the country). When I got home, I saw the opened Christmas rub-ons on her dresser. And next to them, an opened sheet of the Halloween rub-ons - you know, the ones she DIDN'T pick.

Well, I was not too happy. And she lost both sets. I asked her why she took them. "Because I was really good yesterday." I explained to her that those things belonged to my store. That stealing from my store is not okay. She wouldn't steal from any other store, etc.

So, do I now lock up the closet door? Is it just too much temptation for a six-year old to have a closet full of sparklies that she sees me take and pack and send off to other people? How would you deal with a child that has decided to horde things in her room of random consequence?

Featured Product: KI Memories - Sheer Delights (Transparencies)

2008-08-06T15:14:00.000-07:00

One of the many products I fell in love with at CHAS08 was the Sheer Delights collection from KI Memories. They have cut edges and beautifully glossy print. I wanted to feature the collection here and show a few of the sample projects that KI displayed in their booth. I can't wait to get my hands on these!

The Sheer Delights and all new KI Memories products are available for pre-order at PaperCents.com: {shop now}

Click the images below to view a larger version.

Five Ways to Revive Stickers

2008-08-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

Short on time today, so here is the outline of an upcoming newsletter article.

Five Ways to Revive Your Old Stickers
1. Paint them with acrylic paint.
2. Cover them with Stickles glitter glue.
3. Flip them over. Glitter or flock the sticky part. Adhere the non-sticky part. (this works best for shapes (flowers, stars). Some letters can be flipped, too.
4. Embellish them - seen all those embellished stickers at Michael's? It's amazing what a teeny jewel can do to a sticker!
5. Embellish a flower. (see below)

One Easy Way To Embellish a Flower with a Sticker
1. Cut out a circle (1-inch punch tool works well).
2. Put the sticker on the circle.
3. Use a pop-up adhesive (pop-up glue dots or foam squares) to adhere the circle to the center of a paper flower (love Prima!).
4. Adhere the flower to your card or project.

I like to use letters for these as a monogram. They can spice up a gift tag! I also use them as a envelope seal.

I'd love to hear what you do with your old stickers!

In Love with Pink Paislee and Cosmo Cricket

2008-08-01T07:46:00.000-07:00

We have added two new brands to our line up... And I have to say, I couldn't be happier! The customer service provided by Rebecca at Pink Paislee and Lindsay at Cosmo Cricket is spectacular and indicative of the quality of their products. A little background...

A lot goes into putting products online, images need to be sized consistently. I may get images that are all different sizes, square and not e.g., 550x450 and 300x300. In the end, I need three images for each product: a large image (550x550 max), a medium (350x350 exactly), a small image (150x150).

Why? Well, if we use a 350x350 image as a thumbnail, the image will be fuzzy from being reduced AND the product thumbnails will take much longer to load! But hovering over the magnifying glass should show a larger image with enough detail to make a purchase decision. And if a closer look is needed, the product details page has a "product images {zoom}" tab with the largest image available. (We set the maximum size to 550, so the layout doesn't look weird on the page).

So, for each product, I must resize three images and associate them with the product (read: data entry). I also need to set up the product name. I include the brand and collection, product type (12x12 paper) for purposes of search engine optimization (SEO) and grouping like products together. Plus I add to the name, the actual name. So, for example, Cosmo Cricket has a item named "Happy Campers." That item on our site is "Cosmo Cricket - Mr. Campy - 12x12 Double-Sided Cardstock - Happy Campers" Long, I know.

I could go on and on about prices, product descriptions, setting up categories and relating products to each other, but I sense your forehead is about to hit the keyboard.

The point I am making here is, after the purchase of hundreds of products at CHA, I have a LOT to do. And companies like Pink Paislee and Cosmo Cricket that make it easier and faster by providing easy ways to get the data and images, by personally answering e-mails at lightning speed, make it so much easier and more fun! And I am looking forward to a long partnership with both of them! I hope you enjoy having their products at PaperCents.com.

QuicKutz Silhouette (or Wishblade) & Vinyl

2008-07-31T13:50:00.000-07:00

Not sure what to do with Vinyl and your Silhouette or Wishblade digital craft cutter? Here are some ideas:

Make creative Wall Art
Make custom family stick people for your van's rear window
Cut a negative image, adhere it to glass, and paint the image with etching cream. You'll get a nice etched design (great gift!)
Make custom window clings
Bling your oven with a nice 'Hot Stuff' title! :)

I'd love to hear what YOU do with vinyl!

Check out this YouTube video about the QK Silhouette & Vinyl:

QK Silhouette Certification - Some Tricks I Learned

2008-07-30T13:17:00.000-07:00

QuicKutz is now offering a Silhouette Certification to its retailers. The store owner must complete a series of training sessions and quizzes to learn about how to use and sell the Silhouette. Once the program is completed, the store receives a demo unit - and demoing the Silhouette definitely sells it!

I think this Certification program is really ingenious. The tool is amazingly useful and there is just so much that can be done with it. I think a lot of retailers are likely intimidated with the technology and with showing/teaching it to customers. The retailer will have a demo tool to use to show off the capabilities of the machine and how easy it really is to use - once you get your feet wet!

Well, I have completed all my training sessions and hope to complete the big FINAL EXAM tonight! I think it will actually be really fun because it is interactive. I will need to cut samples, etc.

Here are two of the ideas I want to use from the training.

Hand-Drawn Images/Fonts
1. Use a pen tool instead of the blade
2. Select a handwriting font (remember, set it to outline) or an image that has the look of a hand-drawn image.
3. When you cut, the pen will actually draw your image, making it look like you did it by hand!

Stitching
1. Click the line you'd like to "stitch"
2. Change the line format from solid to dashed (long dashes for heavy thread/yarn, short for thin thread)
3. Cut - This will give you a perforated outline of the image you will be stitching.
4. Thread through the perforated holes.
I want to try using the cut pattern to stitch an image onto fabric! I'll post a picture when I actually do so!

Do you have any cool tricks for the Silhouette or Wishblade?

Sneak Peek - Our Stock Room & Shipping Center

2008-07-29T08:40:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of our main stock room, with its shipping center. On the table is where we assemble orders, double-check the items, and pack them up. We use a filing system for the scrapbook paper because it

Keeps the paper from bending or getting creases
Keeps dust off of the paper
Keeps light off of the paper
is sorted by Collection and SKU which allows us to quickly find the exact paper we need quickly
Is very compact, letting us store many SKUs in a small footprint

We could never fit all our paper if we stuck with the wire racks, so we have about 15 racks to get rid of .

(If you want a wire rack, post a comment. I think it won't be worth shipping, so probably makes more sense for those of you in South Florida. They are 12 tier 12x12 racks, $10 each, or $8 each for 4+! They are great for sorting paper and cardstock in your scrap space.)

Two Random Kid Pictures: Ryan 3, Isabel, 6.

SEI Contest #1 - Post Your SEI Layout on Your Blog!

2008-07-28T21:10:00.000-07:00

Okay, it's late and I'm beat, but I owe you a post with the SEI contest. The Prize: a nice stack of SEI Poppy paper (12 sheets), chip accents, big brads, monograms, and diecuts (see photo).

To enter...
1. Post an SEI layout on your blog. The layout should consist of mostly SEI products (50%+).
2. Include a link to PaperCents.com in your post!
Still with me? Last step...
3. Add a comment to this post, so we can find your blog post with the SEI layout!

On Monday, August 4th, I will put the names of the contestants into a little bowl and announce the winner on my blog. I will ship the prize for free within the US. If you are outside of the US, a shipping charge may apply.

Featured Designer: La Verne Boese

2008-07-25T07:12:00.000-07:00

I hung out with La Verne throughout CHA and what a trip! She is a riot and SUPER-talented!! Check out her blog: http://laverneboese.typepad.com/. And be sure to leave her some comments asking for MORE LAYOUTS!

La Verne is on the Design Team for one of my favorite scrapbook stores... Scrapbook Central. She is a relative newbie to scrapping - has been doing it for less than a year. She's got two cutie pie boys - you'll see them in her layouts. Adorable! Keep up the great work, La Verne!!

P.S. I'm going to post a contest this weekend - so keep your eyes peeled.

Thursday's Trick: Silhouette Cutting for Speedy Titles

2008-07-24T12:20:00.000-07:00

This is directly from the QuicKutz Silhouette Tips & Tricks, but I thought you might find it useful. Be sure to visit their site for more tips! I'm a bit short on time to come up with my own trick today! Enjoy...

"Some of our designers have mentioned they like to cut their letters out backwards so they can apply adhesive onto the backs of the letters after they're cut and then simply pull them off the cutting mat and have them ready to place on their layout or card.

To do this, after you have placed your desired text onto your screen, right-click on your text and select "Mirror" and then "Horizontal Mirror". This will flip your text to a mirror image and cut your letters out backwards. After the text has been cut out, take your preferred adhesive (prior to pulling the cut letters off the mat) and apply as desired. You may now take your letters that already have adhesive applied on the back and transfer them from the cutting mat directly onto your project.

When using this tip with textured cardstock, you [will want to ] place your cardstock textured side down onto the cutting mat prior to cutting so that your letters have the textured side on their fronts. Please note that this tip is only for papers or cardstocks that do not already have their own adhesive backing."

What do YOU do to speed up the process? I run any cut out small enough to fit into my Xyron 150. Then I can store the cutouts and apply them to my project when it's convenient.

Wednesday's "Pick of the Day"

2008-07-23T07:14:00.000-07:00

As I pack orders, I'm sometimes surprised by a product that stands out that I really like. I will be using these products for my Wednesday Pick of the Day posts! If you order the Pick of the Day on the day it's posted, you'll get a free goodie in your order! Today's pick is Dressy, a BasicGrey 12x12 Paper from the Sultry collection. It has so many color's to play with. The small pattern makes it easy as a background paper or a mat or accent.

Coffee Break: More Project Ideas from CHA

2008-07-22T08:02:00.000-07:00

It is good to be back at work, though I miss being surrounded by creatives. We are a rare sort. It is really nice to be surrounded by people who "get" what I do and why. And I love learning new techniques and building relationships with the people that work for my favorite brands.

But enough about me! I am posting to give you links to the rest of the project ideas that I took pictures of at CHA, so here they are!

BasicGrey Project Ideas & Cosmo Cricket Project Ideas (I have added a bunch to these two).

Pink Paislee Project Ideas - We ordered the complete new release. I fell in love with it the minute I walked onto the show floor! And they are super cool - see their blog here.

Making Memories Project Ideas - We ordered the new Paperie papers and some coordinating embellishments. We also have the SLICE on pre-order. Check it out!

Doodlebug Project Ideas and Product Images - We ordered the full release.

Scenic Route Project Ideas - We didn't order everything, some paper, some kits... Should be posted on our site soon! Is there anything you want to make sure we order? Put it in a comment, and we'll be happy to!!

Three Bugs in a Rug Project Ideas - We ordered two collections from this release: Playtime and Color Me Pink.

All the pre-orders will be on PaperCents.com within the next few weeks! I am hoping to have BasicGrey online in a day or two.

CHA - Got My Groove Back

2008-07-21T08:32:00.000-07:00

Okay, I really loved CHA. I loved most of the products. And while I wish I could have bought more, it's nice there was so much to choose from! Today I will spend adding products to my site. I'll request product data files & images from the manufacturers to speed that up as much as I can.

I also need to work on some newsletters. First, the QK VIP Club one, then the General one.

Let's put it plainly... I HAVE A LOT TO DO!!! I go back to work tomorrow, but I think I should probably have taken off the entire week. Can't miss work though, because I have a big, looming deadline on a project there as well. Why do we always get busy with 10 different things at once?

But the ONE thing I must do this month is my bookkeeping for last year!!! I'm about 10% done and that is NOT GOOD! Well, maybe I should get to it. I promise to post more great projects from CHA this week. And keep your eyes open for some GIVEAWAYS!

At CHA and At a Loss

2008-07-18T15:39:00.000-07:00

CHA on a budget is no fun at all. I'm doing some nice make & takes. Stalking Tim Holtz a bit. (He's a legend, what can I say?) I tried out Claudine Hellmuth's new Ranger line and LOVE it. The paint is like nothing you have tried!! It's the real deal.

BUT, the "not fun" part is picking which lines to carry.

So far I have ordered the full KI Memories release. They are just "old reliable." Lots of cute stuff. KI Memories sample projects.

I was SOOOO disappointed that there was no Love, Elsie release. It seems they were not ready in time.

I ordered the full Cosmo Cricket line. It's beautiful. Cosmo Cricket sample projects.

I also ordered the full Heidi Swapp release. Heidi Swapp sample projects. The last release didn't do too well for us, so this one might get cut. We'll see how tomorrow goes. I love the stuff, though.

And I will order the full BasicGrey line. BasicGrey sample projects.

I also ordered some SEI Glitzmas, which I LOVE - I take some project photos. And Oasis, which I'm still deciding on. I might switch Oasis for Alpine Forest, but having too many Christmas lines scares me.

I'm deciding on what acrylic albums to carry... any preferences?

That is all I've got at this point. The rest is TBD. I'm off to wash up for dinner and read The Pillars of the Earth which is bound to make me cry... again. ;)

CHA Summer 2008 - SEI Sneak Preview

2008-07-17T19:58:00.000-07:00

Oasis - Ordered full line. Warm, versatile.

Glitzmas - Ordered full line. Color & whimsy.

Alpine Frost - Ordered just the collection packs. Tempted to order more... What do you think?

Finally, at CHA Summer '08 - Thought I Wouldn't Make It!

2008-07-17T13:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday at 5PM, I thought I would print out my itinerary for my flight to CHA Summer '08 (been to Memory Trends 07, CHAW08, CHAS08). Printing the flight schedule seemed like a logical thing to do. Well, I couldn't find it. So, I logged onto AmEx travel... couldn't find it. Dug through all my e-mail accounts. Nope. Turns out, I never clicked "Confirm." So, 12 hours before I need to leave, I'm on the phone with AmEx booking a flight. As I'm looking at my screen, I find the price the guy is quoting me as the "best price available" is $50 more than Expedia's. That's their best "phone" price.

Good for me, the best online price is still eligible, even if I have a guy on the phone, walking me through it step by step. And it all worked out because my new flight got me here at 9 a.m. Which was perfect.

And now, I am at I just got out of a great seminar by Claudine Hellmuth on blogging and social networking. I figured she would be able to teach me quite a bit, and I was right! She got me very excited at the chance to make personal connections with my customers and others in the scrapbooking industry. If you haven't visited her blog, you should! It's fun.

To say I've been neglecting my blog is to be queen of understatement.

2008-07-16T08:45:00.001-07:00

I have ONE post in 2008. That's pretty neglectful, I'd say. Well, I'm back. It's been a crazy year so far, so I'll summarize what you've missed and then we can take it from there!

Had a great time at CHA Winter. Added a few new lines to the store. Some did well, others didn't.

It took forever to add all the product online, so I have been writing a product management computer application to make it all a bit easier. I don't want to spend all my time doing data entry and management!

I completed a website for a friend of a friend: http://noondesigngroup.com.

Have been attending many small-business seminars to get a grip on things! Attended a great one on e-mailing last night by Lisa Sparks from Constant Contact.

Put in a new paper storage system - trying to fit all our inventory into a 14x16 room can be challenging! Funny thing about paper, it's heavier than it looks... collapsed our slatwall!

This week I am going nuts prepping for CHA Summer. After the e-mail seminar, I did two loads of laundry and printed 120 business cards. Also, made "abetterbouncecard" to see if it helps me take some great layout shots - to post on blog. {Entirely forgot to eat dinner.}

2008 goals:

Blog & e-mail more consistently

Add an "Articles" section to PaperCents.com

Oh, and finish 2007 bookkeeping... yikes!

Are you going to CHA? If so, e-mail me - I'd LOVE to meet you!

my LSS

2008-03-10T06:50:00.000-07:00

I went to my favorite Local Scrapbook Store (LSS) yesterday. They have reduced their retail space and class/scrap space by about half. They have a lot less product, but they are making it work - and I hope they stick through it! A lot of stores are closing right now - and it showed at CHA Winter (no lines, no waiting).

Between the downturn in the economy and the adoption of scrapbooking by big chain stores like Target... The LSSs have a lot to compete against. I think that the big brands product we all love can help, though. They can offer smaller lines, spread out their releases, and look for ways to reduce their prices. The demand just isn't there like it used to be.

As an example, SEI is helping out retailers with a great credit program for older products that aren't moving - that's a great way to help the LSS and online stores clear out the older stuff without taking a huge hit.

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL SCRAP STORE! Of course, I buy many staples at discount stores... I need to save money, too. But when I scrap at the LSS, I consider it "entertainment," and I allocate some money I'll spend to pay for that cost. I buy products there that I know I can't find at the discount chains.

Organized, at last!

2007-10-02T08:23:00.000-07:00

I finally have everything organized and put away from CHA Summer - just in time for the next shipments to begin arriving! My husband and I put up slatwall panels (It was harder than I thought it would be - those things are HEAVY!). I used slatwall shelf brackets to hang my new Cropper Hopper 12x12 Hanging Files. And in them? As much paper as we could safely stuff. About 150 sheets in each.

The paper is easy to find, doesn't get bent, and is safe from light and dust. I put the sheets upside down, so I can see the names and SKUs (sorted by SKU). I managed to get all the paper into a nice spot this way. Now, I only wish I had more wall space, so I could store ALL my scrapbook paper this way!

Then, I hung up all the beautiful new Heidi Swapp goodies I have in stock, but NOT online yet! I have had them in stock for about two weeks, so I should probably get going on that. It has been a lot of work to get the images formatted for the web - but I'm almost done.

I'm also busy adding a Gift Wrap option to the site in time for the Holiday season! I'm very excited about this - our customers will be able to buy presents at our store and ship them to family everywhere - looking beautiful! I am hoping it will be ready some time next week.

The last major thing in the works is moving the site to new shopping cart software. We are upgrading the software and will need to do a lot to get it ready and looking decent. There are quite a few reasons for this - I'll have to leave that for another day (and get working on the Heidi images!)

Joy of Assembly

2007-09-18T19:31:00.000-07:00

I love putting orders together! I get home from work and rush to get the kids fed & bathed, homework done, and off to bed. Then, I can relax. I print out the day's orders and get to pretend shop - without any of the decision making, and sometimes with a beer of a glass of wine (I love my job)!

{When I manage to print orders before the kids go to sleep my 2 year old, Ryan, hears the printer and runs toward it yelling "paper!" He picks up the printed order and hands it to me. It is the cutest thing.}

I love thinking about someone from across the country or world opening their package and wonder what they are going to create with it. I imagine them excited to create something beautiful that will be treasured for years or decades.

It's inspiring to see how people put together new products in different ways - I've gotten great ideas. Today, I packed an order with American Craft Foam Thickers in Daiquiri Light Green and Latte Brown. Also in the order are BasicGrey Mellow papers, Scenic Route papers, and Love Elsie Soft Charms. The green and brown colors coordinate so well with the papers - I'm definitely scraplifting that idea.

My favorites new products in stock right now are the new Mellow and Recess collections from BasicGrey, Ally's Wonderland from SEI, and all the new stuff from Scenic Route. I am very excited that the CHA Summer products are mostly not themed, making them very versatile. I think I'll use Mellow for my 2 year old boy's pre-school album. I love the fall colors in it. Actually, all the new products are great - and seem much more versitile than the winter releases. I hope my customers feel the same way!

On the personal side... A bit of history

2007-08-23T12:03:00.000-07:00

PaperCents.com was started almost 2 years ago. I fell in love with my Wishblade and wanted to sell them (I actually didn't until 6 or 7 months later). I started with enough products to fit on a shelf in a walk-in closet, just SEI & Making Memories...

Now, I have filled that closet and an entire other bedroom. I'm not sure where I'm going to put all these new products I've ordered.

I need a couple of weeks off to get everything better organized, for sure. One day soon I'll have to post some pictures of my storage or lack thereof. Maybe I can even get some tips from you! I am working on a hanging file system for all the new paper that's coming in.

A bit about me... I graduated from Florida International University in 1997 with a business degree in MIS. I have worked as a computer consultant and programmer since then. I love web design, graphics and other creative aspects of my work, but lately have been working more on logic and really techie stuff. So, I use PaperCents.com as my creative outlet. I've given up on trying to explain my font obsession to my co-workers! (I have to head over to the Marketing department for that.)

I've been married for 9 years and have two kids, Isabel 5 and Ryan 2. My husband is from Panama, so we took some portraits of the kids in native dress (called apoyera) a couple of months ago at the Fairchild Gardens Mango Festival. I've included a few of the pictures in this post.

Scenic Route is here!

2007-08-14T07:13:00.000-07:00

Well, most of it is. The rest is coming very soon! Check out the beautiful new lines from Scenic Route: Ashville & Sumner! I just love Scenic Route's double-sided cardstock and the beautifully coordinating embellishments! Their scrap strip papers are a great way to buy a variety of patterns for backing and accents on a page.

Click the images below to see all the products in either collection. Grab these products while they are still pre-orders to get an extra 5% off!

Ashville:

Sumner:

CHA Indecision

2007-07-30T14:16:00.000-07:00

I must confess. I am having a hard time deciding what to order from the CHA Summer 2007 releases. There are so many beautiful products. That's not the problem. Limited space and limited budget are the problems I have.

One of the tricky things about an online store (versus a physical store) is you don't really get to see your customers and their responses to products. Sure, you can comb through web logs and see in general how long people stayed on a given page... But you definitely lose something in the communication process.

So, I will spend a day or two diving into forums and blogs to see if I can get a peek into the online customer's mind. And decide if I should order the entire BasicGrey line, or just the collection packs...

Oh, life is hard for the indecisive!

Evil SPAM and the Quest to Communicate

2007-07-23T07:12:00.001-07:00

I never realized quite how problematic SPAM can be until I started an online store. There is a constant concern that an e-mail might not have gotten to the recipient. SPAM filters are a great tool, but I'm as guilty as anyone of deleting all junk mail without checking for anything I might need or want in it.

Well, not knowing whether or not an e-mail reached it's intended recipient is a large part of why we are changing to a new Newsletter software.

We hope our customers will find it easier to manage their subscriptions and cancel them easily when desired. We hope to create increasingly professional and useful e-mails that our customers will look forward to receiving. We hope the software will help us stay better connected by making news easier to produce. But mostly, we expect the new software to allow us to see if our customers are actually receiving the news they requested.

I'd love to hear what you think of the newsletter! What would you like to see added/removed from our e-mails? What kind of scrapbooking information are you not getting elsewhere?

Introducing... The PaperCents.com Blog!

2007-07-18T09:49:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our new blog. We hope to discuss a variety of topics, including the business side of online scrapbook stores, product reviews, our personal challenges, news and offers for our online store. And we really look forward to hearing from you!