Contributor Center Stage: Mel Blackburn

JustMelStudio Calico community

1. How long have you been scrapbooking?

I discovered scrapbooking after the birth of our first daughter in 2004. I wanted to create a mini album with pictures of her relatives. When I started researching various album options, I discovered a local scrapbook store and the world of scrapbooking. Needless to say that I never finished that mini album — instead, I created countless amounts of 12x12 layouts. About two years ago I made the switch from 12x12 to 8.5x11. I love the smaller format, especially since I tend to scrapbook smaller pictures. Around the same time, I started Project Life, which is now my favorite project. I will do the odd scrapbook layout (mostly 6x8) but I’m 100% dedicated to my PL and using my Studio Calico Documenter kits!

2. What’s your go-to technique?

Since I now work with a smaller format, my go-to techniques are no longer elaborate or complicated, but I do love to use my sewing machine, even on my Documenter cards. I also love to create small clusters of embellishments on all of my projects. I think this comes from creating 12x12 layouts where I had a lot of space to work with. This part of the process is still ingrained in me and I don’t think it will disappear any time soon.

3. Would you mind sharing some photos of how one

4. How do you stay organized?

For me, organization is key. I have a tiny scrap space (you can see it here on the Studio Calico blog) and very little room for my supplies. I rely on my Raskog cart and armoire where all of my supplies are neatly tucked away using various baskets and containers. I went from a spare bedroom, to a corner of the basement to now this tiny corner in our master bedroom and I have to admit that this is my favorite scrap space to date.

5. What is the crafting tool you can't live without?

Tim Holtz tiny attacher.

6. Where do you go to get ideas?

Inspiration is all around, from an advertisement or a print on a dress, I try to keep an open mind to take in the beauty that surrounds me. I love Pinterest for gathering inspiration and ideas, but most of all the Studio Calico community is such a wonderful place for inspiration and exchange of ideas! I love looking in the gallery every morning to see what beautiful work has been shared.

7. Anything else we should know about you and/or

I have learned a lot over the years about my style, which has definitely evolved. I have embraced my own creativity and sense of design. I’m so grateful that I am able to contribute to this amazing community that has continued to inspire me over the years and I feel very privileged to share my work with others. Thank you to Studio Calico for giving me this opportunity to work with their wonderful kits and share my projects with the community, I am thrilled and honored to be here.