How to, Paper Crafts, Handmade, DIY, Recycle, Diecuts, Crafting on a Dime

Garden Gate Journal Cover Part One

May 20, 2026

Hi everyone! Did you catch Eileen Hull‘s release party Monday? She showed off her newest collection and the team’s projects from the show floor at Creativation. If you missed the live and would like to see what you missed you can find that video HERE.

This was one of the projects that Eileen shared Monday. I created the journal cover featuring the Garden Gate Journal Diecut, along with a couple other diecuts from the same collection. Anyways, let’s get started!

A decorative paper craft featuring a fence design with colorful flower embellishments in a pastel color scheme.

I cut a front and a back of the journal from Matboard using the Garden Gate Journal Diecut. I embossing the covers with the with a retired embossing folder by Tim Holtz. Side note, I did adhere a brown cardstock to the back outside of the cover before embossing. The embossing folder has a wood texture like the inside of a tree. The packaging didn’t have the name but had the item number 666049 if you are interested.

A white square crafting board with two white fence pieces and a pink decorative wooden fence segment on a wooden surface.

I inked over the embossed areas with an assortment of different shades of brown and black chalk inks. That is my preference of inks to use. I’m a firm believer in using what you have on hand and if you have something different use it.

Craft project featuring two rectangular panels with decorative edges, one larger and one smaller, set on a wooden surface.

I also cut cardstock for the back inside cover of the journal. I inked the edges with a brown chalk ink and glued to the journal. For the front I cut cardstock slightly shorter than the tallest picket of the garden gate. I inked the edges of the cardstock. Then I added adhesive and placed onto the gate.

A textured brown cardstock resembling tree rings on the left, and a decorative fence cutout in a light color on the right, designed by Tonya Trantham for Eileen Hull.

The spine I “peeled” off some of the Matboard to make it thinner. I applied glue and adhered together. The “peeling” of some of the Matboard flattens out the spine.

Three bottles of Craft Smart acrylic paint in blue, green, and mint colors, alongside a paintbrush, placed on a wooden surface. Below, there's a painted cardstock with a blue and green watercolor design and decorative cut-out patterns.

I had received cuts of the Page Edges Thinlits on white cardstock so I painted it with some of my favorite paint colors and let dry.

A colorful scrapbook page featuring layered patterned paper with floral designs, decorative borders, and a light blue background area ready for writing or additional embellishments.

I cut two pieces of patterned cardstock an inch high (I think…I forgot to measure) and 5 inches wide. I applied glue to both sides and the bottom of each piece of cardstock and placed on the inside of the front and back cover to create pockets. I selected two of the page edge dies and adhered to the top of each pocket. I added light blue gems to the center of each flower on the page edge die.

For the outside of the cover I dug into my stash and found this bouquet of flowers that I had fussy cut from some patterned cardstock. I added that to the garden gate and glued two gold gems to the center of the flowers to finish the cover.

If you have any questions or comments please leave them below. If you haven’t been by Eileen’s blog lately you can find the latest post HERE. Also be sure to come back Friday for part two of how I add the pocket to the inside of the spine and create tags.

A decorative paper craft featuring a peach-colored picket fence adorned with floral decorations, including pink, purple, and yellow flowers, along with a cluster of roses and greenery, set against a pastel background.

Supplies

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Garden Gate Journal Diecut

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Page Edges Thinlits

Diecut Machine

Paper Cutter

Matboard

Scissors

Sizzix/Tim Holtz: Wood Embossing Folder (item number 666049)

Light Blue and Gold Gems

Various Plain and Patterned Cardstocks

Brown and Black Chalk Inks

Acrylic Paint: Celery, Bright Mint, Ocean Breeze

Paint Brush

Thread and Needle

Beacon Adhesives: Zip Dry Adhesive

(Products listed above are Affiliated Links for your convenience)

DISCLAIMERS

This blog is compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites, and various other topics. Even though the owner(s) of this blog receives compensation for our posts or advertisements. I always give my honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences on those topics or products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely my own. Any product claim, statistic, or quote should be checked with each manufacturer. Verify other representations about a product or service with the provider or party in question.This blog contains affiliate links. Clicking these links helps to support Tonya Trantham Designs – Creative Paper Addiction. It’s at no additional cost to you. Today’s features are Sizzix, Eileen Hull and Scrapbook.com Products.

A decorative box featuring a lattice design on the front, embellished with colorful paper flowers and gems, resting on a lace background.

Thanks for stopping by, I hope your Wednesday is great and enjoy creating!

A decorative design featuring a colorful bird perched among vibrant flowers, with the name 'Tonya' elegantly displayed in a stylized font against a soft blue background.

Join Eileen Hull’s Release Party for Exciting New Craft Products

May 17, 2026

Hi everyone! Are you ready? Today is the day! The new Eileen Hull Sizzix Collection is here, and Eileen celebrating LIVE from the show floor at Creativation (the live will be streamed on Facebook and YouTube)!

You are invited to join Eileen and Susie as they broadcast the Sizzix Release Party straight from Eileen’s tiny vintage trailer, Daisy, bringing together her amazing creative team from all around the world. You’ll get an up-close look at the fabulous project samples created by the team, sneak peeks of the new products, and maybe even a glimpse of the excitement happening on the show floor!

Promotional image announcing a new collection from Sizzix, with details about a launch party on May 18th at 12:00 Central Time, taking place live from Creativation by NAMTA, featuring Eileen Hull.

The May 2026 release includes seven exciting new products:
• The fan-favorite Garden Gate Album die — brought back by popular request
• Five brand-new Thinlits sets
• A beautiful new embossing folder – inspired by watercolor florals

Designed for journaling, card making, mixed media, and dimensional projects, the collection blends Eileen’s signature style of storytelling, texture, and interactive design with endless opportunities for customization and creativity.

Nora Alphabet Thinlits Die Set featuring colorful alphabet letters.

We can’t wait to see what YOU create with the new collection! Be sure to share your projects in the Eileen Hull Fan Club so we can continue inspiring each other and celebrating creativity together.

I have a couple of sneak peeks with full reveals for later. Also thank you for being part of this amazing journey with Eileen and the team!

A decorative paper craft featuring a pastel-colored fence embellished with flowers and beads, showcasing intricate details.

Supplies

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: May Die and Embossing Folder Bundle

(Products listed above are Affiliated Links for your convenience)

DISCLAIMERS

A collection of colorful, decorative cards bound together with a ring and ribbon, resting on a textured white crochet background.

Thanks for stopping by, I hope your Monday is wonderful and enjoy creating!

A colorful illustration featuring a bird perched among vibrant flowers, with the name 'Tonya' elegantly styled in cursive font.

My Top Three Favorite Eileen Hull Projects for 2025

December 16, 2025

Hi everyone! Can you believe this year is almost over? I’ve been busy creating behind the scenes working on craft and home projects. Also I’ve been spending quality time with family. But I want to share my three favorite projects that I created for Eileen Hull this year.

The first project is a prayer journal I created this for a friend using the Skinny Mini Book Box Diecut. You can find that blog post HERE.

A prayer journal featuring a watercolor illustration of a lamb surrounded by floral elements, with a textured background and colorful patterned papers.

The second project I created a swatch book using the Hardbound Journal Diecut along with a few other dies and stamp set. I loved being able to add bits of ribbon, lace and trim to this book. You can find that blog post HERE.

A colorful and decorative prayer journal featuring floral fabric, layered frames, lace, and embellishments, designed by Tonya Trantham for Eileen Hull.

The final favorite project is a tag I created. Tags are a great way to use scraps of cardstock and embellishments you have lying around. I used the Color Wheel Stencils, Rainbow Wheels Thinlits and Swatch Cards Stamp Set to make this tag. You can find that blog post HERE.

A colorful handmade tag featuring two vintage black and white photographs of women, embellished with floral accents and decorative paper elements, with the text 'FRIENDS FOREVER' and 'tried & true'.

If you have any questions or comments please leave them below. Also if you haven’t been by Eileen Hull’s blog lately to see what is happening with her and the team you can find the latest post HERE.

Supplies

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Skinny Mini Book Box Diecut

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Hardbound Journal Diecut

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Color Wheel Stencils

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Rainbow Wheels Thinlits

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Swatch Cards Stamp Set

Diecut Machine

(Products listed above are Affiliated Links for your convenience)

DISCLAIMERS

An open prayer journal featuring various decorative papers, embellishments, and textures, showcasing a colorful and creative design.

Thanks for stopping by, I hope your Tuesday is wonderful and enjoy creating!

A decorative graphic featuring a bird among colorful flowers with the name 'Tonya' artistically displayed.

Create a Unique December Daily from Gusset Bags

November 18, 2025

Hi everyone! I’ve been extremely busy with everything that pertains to inside the home. I’m just getting around to sharing my first project of the month for Eileen Hull. It’s hard to believe that Christmas is right around the corner. So I decided I was going to create a December Daily since I’ve been saving the gusset bags (it has a pleat on each side of the paper bag) that my husband’s medicine has come in when he picks them up at the Walmart pharmacy. Anyways, let’s get started!

A decorative journal cover featuring layered patterned cardstock, a central circular motif with a deer illustration, and the text 'It's the most wonderful time of the year.' The cover incorporates vibrant colors, textures, and embellishments like ric rac.

The first thing I did was cut off a tiny section of the bottom of each bag. Next I cut the middle of the “gusset” to create one cover and three inside pages. That’s a total of four bags cut for one journal. The top of the bags has an “extended “flap” of paper that I scored. I glued the “flap” and each of folded edges of the gusset down.

A close-up view of two brown gusset bags laid flat on a surface, with one bag opened slightly to show its pleated sides, alongside a bottle of Fabri-Tac adhesive.

The middle gusset I adhered together. I glued each side of the gusset page onto the center piece/gusset.

Close-up of a hand holding a folded gusset bag, showcasing its pleated edges and texture.

I did that for each of the three pages.

Open gusset bag from Walmart pharmacy with text 'Rx made simple' printed in blue on the front.

Now for the fun stuff! Decorating the cover! First, I cut patterned cardstock, inked the edges with a green chalk ink and glued to the front and back covers. I added two strips of cardstock to the cover. I cut two of the largest tunnel die from the Tunnel Arches Thinlits and adhered both, ends facing each other, to the cover along with a strip of patterned cardstock.

A colorful journal cover decorated with patterned cardstock, including vibrant green and pink designs, layered strips, and a unique arch shape.

I cut the largest circle die from the Rainbow Wheels Thinlits and inked the edges with a brown chalk ink.

A decorated circular tag featuring a deer silhouette surrounded by a green wreath. The tag includes the phrases 'It's the most' and 'WONDERFUL time of the year' in colorful letters, with embellishments like holly leaves and pearl accents.

I glued another strip of patterned cardstock to the cover before adding the circle die. I cut two of the wreaths from the Wreath and Snowflake Thinlits (retired), placed on top of each other and adhered to the circle. I cut a deer die from the Home Sweet Home Thinlits, inked with a brown chalk ink and placed in the center of the wreath.

Decorative cover of a handmade journal featuring a deer silhouette, wreath, festive colors, and a chipboard sentiment saying 'It's the most wonderful time of the year.'

I placed the “it’s the most wonderful time of the year” Chipboard Christmas Sentiment underneath the deer. I cut two holly dies from the Funky Festive Thinlits (retired), inked and shaped with a Stylus. I placed those onto the chipboard sentiment. I added White Gems to the wreath and the holly. I also glued two pieces of deep pink ric rac to cover to finish.

A decorated journal cover featuring a deer, layered patterned cardstock, and festive embellishments including a sentiment that reads 'It's the most wonderful time of the year'.

The only thing left to do is to decorate the inside pages. I think this journal will be an abbreviated version of a December Daily. Even though the holiday season is busy I don’t do a lot of exciting things to document.

Anyways, if you have any questions or comments please leave them below.

Colorful December Daily journal cover featuring patterned cardstock, a deer embellishment, and a sentiment that reads 'It's the most wonderful time of the year'.

Supplies

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Tunnel Arches Thinlits

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Rainbow Wheels Thinlits

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Wreath and Snowflake Thinlits (retired)

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Home Sweet Home Thinlits

Sizzix/Tim Holtz: Funky Festive Thinlits (retired)

Diecut Machine

Paper Cutter

Scissors

Gusset Bags (4)

Plain and Patterned Cardstocks

White Gems

Ric Rac

Green and Brown Chalk Inks

Chipboard Christmas Sentiment

Stylus

Beacon Adhesives: Fabri-Tac Adhesive

DISCLAIMERS

A decorated journal cover featuring a deer surrounded by greenery, with the phrase 'It's the most wonderful time of the year' prominently displayed, against a colorful patterned background with various paper strips.

Thanks for stopping by, I hope your Tuesday is wonderful and enjoy creating!

A decorative digital graphic featuring a bird among colorful flowers with the name 'Tonya' artistically displayed.

How to Recycle Envelopes into a Tri Fold Journal

September 16, 2025

Hi everyone! I’m back with my first post of the month. I want to share how I altered three envelopes and turned them into a journal. I used a wide assortment of diecuts from Eileen Hull’s newest collection to create this fun project. Anyways let’s get started!

A handcrafted journal featuring a vintage autumn theme, with a decorative window frame, floral elements, and black-and-white photographs of two women. The cover includes various layers of cardstock, embellishments, and a sentiment that reads 'FRIENDS'.

I have no step out photos of how I put together the envelopes. But I glued the top envelope flap to the middle envelope. The bottom envelope I adhered to the middle envelope to create a trip fold journal.

I went with an Autumn/Vintage theme and picked cardstock and embellishments to match. I covered both sides of all the tri fold journal with cardstock. I had chosen a section of a sheet of cardstock that had a butterfly and florals and cut the largest arch die from the Tunnel Arches Framelits Diecuts. I also cut the window frame die from the Windowsill Flowers and Vase Thinlits Diecuts. I glued the window frame on top of the arch and lightly inked with white chalk ink.

A close-up of a decorated journal cover featuring a window frame, floral designs, and a vintage photograph of two women sitting together. The word 'FRIENDS' is prominently displayed below the window, surrounded by embellishments like leaves and floral accents.

I added an assortment of scraps of cardstock along with two of the longest arrows from the Rainbow Wheels Thinlits to the cover. On the edge of the cover I adhered a piece of velvet ric rac. I added Foam Pop Dots to the back of the window frame and placed on the cover. I dug into my stash and added a yellow flower to the corner of the window frame.

A decorated journal cover featuring a window frame with floral designs, the word 'FRIENDS', and vintage-style photographs of two women, surrounded by embellishments like leaves and stitching.

I created three bows out of thread and glued one behind the window frame and two behind the flower. I cut a part scraps of lace and glued behind the window frame along with a floral circle that I lightly inked with brown chalk ink. I inked with brown chalk ink a friend sentiment and adhered to the window frame. I picked a set of women from the Mini Paper Dolls and glued on top of the flower. I cut a total of four leaf sprigs from the Windowsill Flowers and Vase Thinlits Diecuts. I glued three under the large flower and one to the top of the cover.

A decorated journal cover featuring a window frame design, floral elements, and two vintage-style images of women sitting together. The journal has autumn-themed colors and embellishments like ric rac and layered cardstock.

The middle page of the journal I created a pocket with a journaling spot from my stash. I added glue to the bottom edge. I cut a squirrel, rabbit and two suns from the Home Sweet Home Thinlits Diecuts. I also cut out one label and two key holes from the Journal Hardware Diecuts. I embossed the top edge of a piece of cardstock with the Lacy Leaves Embossing Folder. I folded over and stapled some scraps of cardstock to create a place to add photos or journaling. I glued the label, the outer part of the sun and rabbits to the fold over. I adhered the squirrel to the bottom corner of the journaling spot.

A tri-fold journal created using altered envelopes, featuring a vintage autumn theme with die cuts, cardstock patterns, embellishments, and a decorative window frame.

I cut two of the largest arches and two of the next size down arches from the Tunnel Arches Framelits Diecuts. I added glue to the top edge of both smaller arches and placed on top of the largest arch. I then added adhesive to the top of both largest arch and placed both onto the journal page. I cut two each of the following: lace trim, smallest flowers and larger flowers from the Windowsill Flowers and Vase Thinlits Diecuts. I also cut five of the leaf sprigs from the same set of dies. I adhered two leaf sprigs, one circle from the center of the sun diecut and two leaves cut from one of the leaf sprigs and the small flower to each outer flap. I placed a Flat Back Pearls to the center of each flower.

An embellished journal page featuring two decorative arches with floral designs and a patterned background. The page includes cut leaves and a circular embellishment with a flower.

The inside flap I glued a key hole die side ways on each flap. I adhered the large flower to the middle of the key hole die and placed a sequin in the center of each flower.

Close-up view of a tri-fold journal page featuring two decorative pockets adorned with orange sunflowers and embellishments on a textured gray background.

The other side of the journal. I embossed two strips of cardstock with the Lacy Leaves Embossing Folder and inked with white chalk ink. I glued one piece to the back edge of a page along with a strip of cardstock. The middle page I added adhesive to both end of the embossed cardstock. I placed in the center of the page to create a tuck spot and added a folded piece of cardstock. I glued a strip of cardstock to the center of the embossed cardstock. The other page I added a piece of ric rac to the edge of the page. I glued the circle from the center of the sun and a fox from the Home Sweet Home Thinlits Diecuts to finish.

Craft project showcasing a tri-fold journal made from altered envelopes, featuring a variety of patterned cardstocks and embellishments including a fox cutout and decorative ric rac trim.

This project is a great way to recycle envelopes you get in the mail and use up scrap of cardstock that you might have laying around in your supplies.

Also if you haven’t been by Eileen Hull’s blog lately to see what her team has been up to you can find the latest post HERE. As always if you have any questions or comments please leave them below.

A handcrafted journal featuring an arch window design, decorative paper, and vintage-style embellishments, including a photo of two women labeled 'Friends'.

Supplies

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Tunnel Arches Framelits Diecuts

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Windowsill Flowers and Vase Thinlits Diecuts

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Rainbow Wheels Thinlits

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Home Sweet Home Thinlits Diecuts

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Journal Hardware Diecuts

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Lacy Leaves Embossing Folder

Diecut Machine

Foam Pop Dots

White and Brown Chalk Ink

Lace, Ric Rac, Pom Pom Trim and Brown Thread

Various Embellishments

Mini Paper Dolls

Paper Cutter

Scissors

Various Plain and Patterned Cardstocks

Sequin and Flat Back Pearls

Tiny Attacher

Beacon Adhesives: Zip Dry Adhesive

(Products listed above are Affiliated Links for your convenience)

DISCLAIMERS

A handcrafted journal featuring a vintage aesthetic, adorned with die-cut elements, including a window frame, floral designs, and black-and-white photographs of two women, set against patterned backgrounds and decorative cardstock.

Thanks for stopping by, I hope your Tuesday is great and enjoy creating!

Artistic design featuring a bird and floral elements with the name 'Tonya' in an elegant font.

Join the Eileen Hull September Release Party for Craft Ideas

September 1, 2025

Hi everyone! It’s that time again! Eileen Hull has a new release and this collection was inspired by nature and the cozy feeling of home. It was designed to coordinate with the Handbound Journal (sold separately) to create a tunnel book. But each die set also stands beautifully on its own and can be used in so many creative ways!

Close-up of a decorated journal cover featuring a stylized orange fox, intricate floral patterns, and a textured ribbon.

First, I would like to share a sneak peek of a project I created. I used all the dies and embossing folder in this one project. I will be share the reveal later this month so be sure to stop back by!

Close-up of an orange embossing folder featuring an intricate lacy pattern with floral and leaf designs.

Lacy Leaves Embossing Folder
A bold, intricate lacy pattern measuring 6” x 8 ½”—perfectly sized for journal covers and cards. This design was inspired by an actual piece of lace from my collection that reminded me of leaves. I love the mix of nature and lace! Whether you emboss or deboss the pattern, the result is simply beautiful.

A scenic illustration featuring layered die-cut figures of a deer, rabbit, fox, trees, a house, and butterflies, set against a green landscape with a sun and moon above.

Home Sweet Home Die Set
This 24-piece set includes layered forest animals (deer, fox, bunny, squirrel, and butterflies), pine trees, grassy hills, greenery, clouds, sun, moon, and a cozy house. The sweet deer alone makes this set worth it! Perfect for holiday projects, baby themes, everyday cards, journals, and tags.

Die set featuring a window with a vase of colorful flowers, including sunflowers and tulips, designed for crafting projects.

Windowsill Flowers & Vase Die Set
A 13-die set designed to coordinate with the Tunnel Arches. The window die matches the largest arch. It lets you build a 3D scene that looks as though you’re peering through a window. The tiny vase and flowers (yes, I had to make them that small for scale!) are wonderful for using scraps. The little lacy piece also makes a lovely accent for junk journal pockets and cards.

A layered die-cut design featuring multiple arches in varying shades of brown, beige, and teal, showcasing a modern, colorful aesthetic.

Tunnel Arches Die Set
Who knew arches could be so versatile? Make a rainbow! Use the negative cuts to create graduated windows in journals, cards, and home decor. Use the positive pieces as card bases and tags. Nothing goes to waste! This 7-die nesting set ranges in size from 4 ½” x 3 ¼” down to teeny-tiny (so cute!). They were designed to fit perfectly inside the Handbound Journal. You might want to try your hand at a tunnel book. Watch for upcoming tutorials on Eileen’s YouTube Channel which can be found HERE!

Supplies

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Handbound Journal Diecut

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Lacy Leaves Embossing Folder

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Home Sweet Home Die Set

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Windowsill Flowers & Vase Die Set

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Tunnel Arches Die Set

Diecut Machine

(Products listed above are Affiliated Links for your convenience)

DISCLAIMERS

A crafted display featuring layered nature scenes, including trees, animals, and a sun, surrounded by colorful paper backgrounds and decorative elements like flowers and arches.

Thanks for stopping by, I hope your Tuesday is awesome and enjoy creating!

A decorative design featuring a bird and colorful flowers with the name 'Tonya' elegantly written in cursive.

Using Diecuts in Ways Not Intended for Cards

June 9, 2025

Hi everyone! I’m back with my first Eileen Hull project of the month. I used the Handbound Journal Diecut and Rainbow Wheels Thinlits, along with a few other products all by Eileen to create a card. Anyways, let’s get started!

A handmade card featuring a layered design with various patterned yellow cardstocks. The card includes an oval shape with the phrase 'GO FOR IT!' in the center, and three golden embossed pie/wedge shapes adorned with sequins.

I folded a piece of Kraft Cardstock in half. I placed it slightly below the cut line of the spine of the Handbound Journal Diecut. Then, I ran it through the Diecut Machine.

A handmade card featuring a layered design with yellow and patterned cardstock, three triangular die-cut embellishments, and the text 'GO FOR IT!'

I gathered an assortment of yellow and one rainbow patterned cardstocks. I cut five strips in different sizes to fit the base of the card. I glued all in place.

A card decorated with patterned yellow cardstocks, featuring a large circular shape and three wedge-shaped diecuts with gold gems, and a stamped message that says 'GO FOR IT!'

I cut one large and two small circles from the Rainbow Wheels Thinlits and adhered to the card. Side note, the pie/wedge shape diecut looks like an explanation point…if you add a dot to it. I thought it would be the perfect addition to the “Go For It!” stamp that I will be using.

A handmade card featuring layered yellow patterned cardstocks, an oval focal point with the text 'GO FOR IT!', and three embossed pie/wedge shaped elements adorned with gold gems.

I cut three of the pie/wedge shaped dies from the Rainbow Wheels Thinlits. I embossed all three with the Lace Embossing Folder. I lightly applied Gold Luster Wax over the embossed areas.

A handmade card featuring yellow and patterned cardstocks, with a large circular base, three pie/wedge shapes, and a stamped message that reads 'GO FOR IT!' adorned with gold gems.

I placed the “Go For It!” stamp from the Swatch Cards Stamp Set onto the MISTI Stamping Tool. I inked the stamp with Black Ink and stamped onto a piece of cardstock. I used the Gold Luster Wax and lightly inked the edges of the saying.

Close-up of a handmade card featuring embossed yellow pie/wedge shapes, gold gems, and the phrase 'GO FOR IT!' on a colorful background.

I adhered the pie/wedges dies and sentiment to the card. I added Gold Gems to the bottom of each pie/wedge. I also added smaller gold gems to the center of each embossed flower.

I can’t wait to make more cards with these dies and stamp set. If you haven’t been by Eileen’s blog lately you can find the latest post HERE.

If you have any questions or comments about this card, please leave them below.

A handmade card featuring a circular design with a 'Go For It!' sentiment, adorned with yellow pie-shaped diecuts and gold gems on a patterned cardstock background.

Supplies

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Handbound Journal Diecut

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Rainbow Wheels Thinlits

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Lace Embossing Folder

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Swatch Cards Stamp Set

Diecut Machine

MISTI Stamping Tool

Black Ink

Paper Cutter

Scissors

Various Patterned Cardstocks

Kraft Cardstock

Gold Gems

Gold Luster Wax

Beacon Adhesives: Zip Dry Adhesive

(Products listed above are Affiliated Links for your convenience)

DISCLAIMERS

This blog is compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites, and various other topics. Even though the owner(s) of this blog receives compensation for our posts or advertisements. I always give my honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences on those topics or products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely my own. Any product claim, statistic, or quote should be checked with each manufacturer. Verify other representations about a product or service with the provider or party in question.This blog contains affiliate links. Clicking these links helps to support Tonya Trantham Designs – Creative Paper Addiction. It runs at no additional cost to you. Today’s features are Sizzix, Eileen Hull and Scrapbook.com Products.

A colorful handmade card featuring layered yellow and patterned cardstock, a circular element, and a sentiment that reads 'GO FOR IT!' with decorative pie-shaped embellishments.

Thanks for stopping by, I hope your Monday is wonderful and enjoy creating!

A stylized graphic featuring a bird and colorful floral elements with the name 'Tonya' prominently displayed in green, against a soft blue background.

Create a Stunning Swatch Book with Eileen Hull’s Diecuts

May 14, 2025

Hi everyone! I am back with the complete reveal of my swatch book. I created it using the Hardbound Journal Diecut, Swatch Cards Stamps and a few other dies, all by Eileen Hull. This was a fun journal to create. It was a great way to showcase lace, ribbon, and trim that I have in my stash. Anyways, let’s get started!

Close-up of a handcrafted journal cover featuring floral fabric, lace, and decorative elements such as bookplates, flowers, and embellishments.

I didn’t take any step out photos of how I layered the covers and spine. So I did bullet points to break down the process. A side note… when creating the cover cut two covers and a spine with the diecut.

I cut a piece of cardstock to fit the Hardbound Journal Diecut.
I cut from the Adhesive Roll strips of adhesive and applied to both sides of the cardstock.
I cut two pieces of felt the same size as the cardstock. I place the felt on either side of the cardstock.
I did the same steps as above and applied strips of adhesive to both sides of the felt and burnished.
I cut fabric and placed over the applied adhesive strips that’s covering the felt. I burnished well before placing onto the Hardbound Journal Diecut and running through the Diecut Machine.

A collection of colorful and patterned die-cut pieces and covers for a journal, featuring floral designs and polka dots.

I glued the end flaps to each straight side of the journal cover.

An assembled journal featuring a floral cover with shades of pink and green, and a gray spine with polka dots and pierced details.

I cut a total of six papers for the journal. I folded in half and made holes in the fold before sewing two papers in per signature. A side note…I had actually sewn in more pages but had to remove them. The extra pages would have “bulked” up the journal too much.

Open journal featuring grid pattern pages with a decorative spine.

I used the MISTI Stamping Tool to stamp the “swatch card” stamp from the Swatch Cards Stamps onto White Cardstock. I hand cut each of the swatches with Scissors.

An assortment of stamped swatch cards on a workspace with an archival ink pad and a ruler.

I went through my lace, ribbon and trim and glued to the swatches. I also used the Journal Hardware Diecut to create labels for the larger lace and trim in my stash.

An array of swatch cards featuring various lace, ribbon, and trim in different colors and patterns, displaying the crafting supplies organized for easy access.

I adhered cardstock to each page before adding a swatch card.

A swatch book page featuring various ribbons and trims displayed in a creative layout with colorful embellishments, including a flower and the phrase 'I PICK YOU'.

This is a great way to use those bits and pieces of random embellishments.

An open swatch book page featuring vintage black and white photos of four men sitting around a table, with decorative lace and ribbon swatches displayed alongside. One side includes a swatch card labeled 'swatch card' with various trims, while the opposite side features colorful painted background with additional lace designs.

Even though it’s fun seeing all the lace, ribbon and trim I included in this journal. It’s kind of alarming that I didn’t even make a dent in what I still have in my collection.

An open journal page featuring decorative swatch cards with lace, ribbon, and a bird illustration. The left side displays swatch cards labeled with various embellishments, while the right side shows fabric swatches accompanied by a floral embellishment.

The cover I added a piece of lace and three bookplates in different sizes. The first bookplate, I adhered onto the lace. The second bookplate, I glued a piece of light blue lace inside the plate. I also added Foam Pop Dots to the back edge. I added a scrap of fabric to the third bookplate. Then I stacked all three on top of each other and glued them to the cover.

A handcrafted journal with a floral cover, featuring lace, ribbons, and decorative bookplates. The journal showcases a combination of various textures and colors, emphasizing creativity in design.

I added Gray Flatback Pearls to the ends of each bookplates. I also glued a flower with a leaf and a bit of pink seam binding to the bookplate. The finishing touch was adding mini pom pom trim to the edge of the spine and cover of the book.

A beautifully crafted swatch book featuring multiple layers of colorful fabric and cardstock. The cover is adorned with decorative lace, ribbons, and a decorative metal label holder, showcasing an intricate design and variety of textures.

I can’t wait to make more of these types of journals. Maybe the next journal will be swatches of all the Washi tape that I own?

A handcrafted swatch book featuring a floral fabric cover, decorative lace, and various embellishments like bookplates and trim.

Anyways, if you haven’t been by Eileen Hull’s blog lately you can find the latest post HERE. Also if you have any questions about this journal or comments in general leave them below.

A side view of a colorful handmade journal with various patterned pages and embellishments, showcasing the creative layout and design.

Supplies

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Hardbound Journal Diecut

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Swatch Cards Stamps

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Journal Hardware Diecut

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Rainbow Wheels Thinlits

Diecut Machine

Paper Cutter

MISTI Stamping Tool

Black Ink

Scissors

White Cardstock

Gray Flatback Pearls

Grid Paper

Various Plain and Patterned Cardstock

Fabric, Felt and Thread

Various Lace, Ribbon and Trim

Various Diecuts and Embellishments

Foam Pop Dots

Adhesive Roll

Beacon Adhesives: Zip Dry Adhesive

(Products listed above are Affiliated Links for your convenience)

DISCLAIMERS

This blog is compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites, and various other topics. Even though the owner(s) of this blog receives compensation for our posts or advertisements. I always give my honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences on those topics or products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely my own. Any product claim, statistic, or quote should be checked with each manufacturer. Verify other representations about a product or service with the provider or party in question.This blog contains affiliate links. Clicking these links helps to support Tonya Trantham Designs – Creative Paper Addiction. It runs at no additional cost to you. Today’s features are Sizzix, Eileen Hull and Scrapbook.com Products.

A colorful handmade journal cover featuring floral fabric, lace, and layered embellishments, including frames and a flower accent.

Thanks for stopping by, I hope your Wednesday is great and enjoy creating!

A decorative image featuring a bird among colorful flowers with the name 'Tonya' artistically displayed.

Eileen Hull New Release Crafting Essentials: Must-Have Tools

April 30, 2025

Hi everyone! It’s that time again and the May Release by Eileen Hull is here! I will be sharing sneak peeks of my projects and will do blog posts later.

The Handbound Journal is a ScoreBoards XL die designed to cut and score thick materials like matboard, leather, and felt. It includes built-in score lines, holes, a spine piece, and large labels—no measuring needed! The book measures 6″ x 5″. You can customize its thickness. You can also choose hand or quick binding. It comes with a pretty scalloped edge. One of the most versatile designs yet.

The Bigz Journal Hardware Die offers latches, hinges, and pen loops. These components are perfectly sized to coordinate with the journal. It also cuts a variety of materials.

The Color Wheel Stencil is a three-layer stencil that creates a continuous color wheel—use traditional ROYGBIV or customize your palette. Pair it with the Rainbow Wheel Die, which cuts the framework, segmented circle, and arrows for a functional color wheel.

The Swatch Card Stamp Set includes a round palette, rectangular and pie-shaped swatch cards. Plus color-themed phrases perfect for cards or journals.

Supplies

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Handbound Journal Diecut

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Bigz Journal Hardware Diecut

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Rainbow Wheel Diecut

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Color Wheel Stencil

Sizzix/Eileen Hull: Swatch Card Stamp Set

Diecut Machine

(Products listed above are Affiliated Links for your convenience)

DISCLAIMERS

This blog is compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites, and various other topics. Even though the owner(s) of this blog receives compensation for our posts or advertisements. I always give my honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences on those topics or products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely my own. Any product claim, statistic, or quote should be checked with each manufacturer. Verify other representations about a product or service with the provider or party in question.This blog contains affiliate links. Clicking these links helps to support Tonya Trantham Designs – Creative Paper Addiction. It runs at no additional cost to you. Today’s features are Sizzix, Eileen Hull and Scrapbook.com Products.

Thanks for stopping by, I hope your Thursday is great and enjoy creating!

Spring Fling Craft-along Event

April 25, 2023

Hi everyone! This past Saturday was the Spring Fling Craftalong Event hosted by Eileen Hull. There was ten designers sharing how to projects using an assortment of Eileen Hull’s diecuts. Lots of fun was had by all and even though the event maybe over you can still purchase the craftalong/classes for $30. That’s eight classes with a couple of bonus projects thrown in too. Once purchased you will be added to the Spring Fling Craftalong Facebook group and you will have unlimited access to all the videos too. You can find the link to purchase this event HERE.

Here’s a peek of my project for this event it was a Loaded Envelope Folio using the Journaling Card, Envelope and Windows Thinlits and the Library Pocket ATC Card and TabsThinlits.

If you have questions about this event please let me know.

Thanks for stopping by, hope your Tuesday is great and enjoy creating!