Color Labeling the RANGER STATION

I made further improvements upon the Ranger Station.  I color labeled the tops of all my lids so that I could easily find just the right color for the project.  It was quite easy and terrifically fun to do.  I ran a scrap piece of  white card stock through my Xyron sticker maker so that it was ready for my lids.  I then cut out a bunch of 5/8" circles using my Marvy round punch. 

I decided to start with the Distress Stains first.  I placed all the stickers on the lids and colored them in place.  You can, of course, color them first and them adhere them.  I just find it easier this way.  And here is a great TIP... to get the backing off of the sticker, stab the back in the center with a pin and remove.  Not only is it way easier to remove the backing but you essentially are shish-kabobing all the left over backings making clean up a breeze!

My next step was to simply start staining all the tops of the stain lids. So quick and easy.  And a great reference to have at a glance!

I also added a drop on the tops of my Dimensional Pearls.

 Next came the messier, which for me is the part I really enjoy! I used one of my favorite and probably one of the cheapest tools you can have in your craft studio...Q-Tips!  You can get a huge bag at the $1 store or on sale.  I use them all the time to mix try out a color.  Add a little of this or that.  You get the picture! 

 I use the Q-Tips to add just the right amount to my stickers that I had already put on to my Adirondack Paint Dabbers (1st picture in the post) and the Claudine Hellmuth Studio Paints.  I  am in love with my new Ranger Station!  Now it's time to CREATE!!!

Designer Book Covers

When I was camping this past summer I found that the covers of my puzzle books were taking a beating!  I found an easy, and I mean EASY, solutions to my problem.  I created a video tutorial showing just how easy and durable my books are now.  I love them now and especially love that they match my car! I keep them in the passenger door so whenever I'm bored (which isn't often) I can pull them out and keep me busy. 

Great for gifts...think of all the stocking that could be stuffed or Easter baskets!  Birthdays, party favors...the ideas are endless.  Plus, it's a great way to use up all that extra paper.

How to Label Your Distress Ink Pads

I have received lots of questions about how I have labeled my Distress Ink pads.  Well, here I am to answer all your questions...I have created a short video to help you see how easy it is.  I also created a free PDF file for you to download with all the Distress Ink Names on them so you can label yours.  Sweet! 

You can get a copy of my Distress Ink Labels HERE 

 I store all my blenders right next to my Distress Inks.  I place clear velcro on the wall and then white on one side of the applicator.  On the side that is facing out I place a sticker with the color family that I use it for.  Red, Yellow, Orange, Purple, Blue, Green, Tan, Brown, Black, 2 for Alchohol Inks & 1 unlabeled for Misc.

To answer another question, I got my ink pad storage from Ebay. I bought it for $40 each (I have 2) each holds 72 ink pads. Each slot is wide enough to hold the average size ink pad or a distress pad and refill bottle. The seller is called Pastimeworks and ships from Brantford, Canada. The item is called Stampin Storage Rack Up to 72 Ink Pads Stamp Pad. It comes natural wood color and then I painted it white. Hope this helps