It seems all year round, blank books are always on clearance at the book store. I use blank books for, like, um...everything! I mostly love to write down story ideas, random thoughts and lots of doodles. i often tear out pages from magazines, or catchy headlines, or phrases I like and use a glue stick to put them in my book.

Lately I've also been making quick scrapbooks from them. I'm not into heavy high-priced add ons like brads, die cuts and all that stuff. With a family of four to feed, all our extra change goes to groceries it seems! I like to do things like have fun with my computer, do some Andy Warhol spins, glue clunky things on. Anyhoo...Here is a spread I did of my sister and my kids. Work that home computer, baby!

How to do it: Use a glue stick to line the pages with background paper, or you can paint on the pages. For an even simpler method, use photo corners and slip in a photo. Don't forget to add a caption.

Another great idea is to put a picture of a goal you want to achieve, and write down a paragraph why you want this to happen in your life. If you put it in words, it is like putting the order out in the universe - you never know what will comeback around!

* By Kathy Cano Murillo, copyright 2006. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: collage/paper, empowerment crafts