Quick and Easy Gifts by Judi Kauffman for The Queen’s Ink

I like to make holiday gifts that are inexpensive, quick, and easy. (My mantra has always been ‘Easy isn’t cheating!’) 

Nothing could be faster than covering the front of a fan deck, a small ring-bound notepad, a magnet-backed pencil holder, or a dollar store journal with Shimmer Sheetz. (Don’t forget to make a couple of the fan decks and books for yourself – they’re mighty handy…)

Shimmer Sheetz is durable and waterproof, fingerprints and dirt will wipe off with a damp cloth. It’s sparkly and elegant when it’s altered with alcohol inks, embossed and sanded, or any combination thereof.

I’m going to let the photos do the talking – no instructions today, just inspiration! I’ve already posted a bunch of projects featuring Shimmer Sheetz as a focal point, so this tutorial is, essentially, a reminder that any flat surface is prime real estate for a bit of embellishment!

Design strategies, things to notice: 
If you’re making fan decks, the hardware can be colored with the same alcohol inks that are used to alter the Shimmer Sheetz. Vinyl peel-offs (like the leafy branches) can be altered with alcohol inks, too, adding an extra special touch!

Adding a decorative element around the hardware adds to the fun.

SUPPLIES:

• Shimmer Sheetz in colors of choice
•  (Shown: Amethyst and Peridot Gemstones)
• Fan decks (Arnold Grummer’s)
• Ring-bound mini books
• Journals or composition books
• Double sided adhesive sheets
• Embossing folders
• Leafy Branch vinyl peel-offs in gold to alter with inks (Elizabeth Craft Designs)
• Tim Holtz Alcohol Inks and Metallic Mixatives in colors of choice
• Ink applicator tool
• Sanding block