When I first started scrapping about eight years ago, I fell in love with Creating Keepsakes magazine. I have read it for years and always get so excited when it arrives in my mailbox each month. It has the perfect mix of simple and complex pages to always get me inspired to scrap.
So, as I've said many times, I was THRILLED when I finally won the HOF contest in 2008 (((thrilled!))). It only took six entries and seven years to get them to notice my work, but I kept working hard on improving and it finally happened. And then that same year, they asked me to be a member of their Dream Team - that was beyond a goal of mine (didn't even dare set it)! I was so honored and excited to be designing pages for the magazine each month.
Then towards the end of my year designing for CK, the rumors started flying about the financial problems they were having. I was worried. I did NOT want to see my favorite magazine fall. I loved working with them, they were the start to my love of scrapbooking and I couldn't imagine the industry without them!
So I was VERY happy to recently hear they were purchased by a reputable company, New Track Media, that understands the magazine and craft industry. And I was even more excited to see that all my favorite editors would still be running the magazine. Unfortunately Brian Tippets is no longer the Editor in Chief of CK, but I was pleased to hear that Jennafer Martin is now in that role. She has a TON of experience and will do a great job taking over the helm of CK. There is more information about her experience and the positions she has held with CK Media for the last nine years on the CK Blog. I think this is a new chapter for CK and these changes will help them stay successful in this tough economy and industry.
For my HOF entry in January of 2008, I had to make a mini album with a unique closure. After much thought, I came up with what I considered to be my most creative creation. They asked to feature it in the Tips and Tricks column for the August issue. The instructions on how to make it are in the magazine as well as an alternate version with a chipboard cover if you don't have access to a shell. The shell is almost 8x8, so the album is quite large and heavy. Here is a copy of my entry page about the album that shows some pictures of it and a close up of the cover:
Check out the August CK to see more pictures of it! Hope you are all having a wonderful summer - it is my favorite time of the year!!! Suzy
I commend you on your attitude. I have read nothing but negative stuff regarding CK and I am tired of it. I am like you that I hope they succeed. They were the first magazine that I bought when I wanted ideas for scrapbooking and I still subscribe to them.
Posted by: Sandy | July 22, 2009 at 05:59 PM
Thanks for sharing your story about making the HOF! I've been a fan of your work for many years and I can see from this GORGEOUS album why you made it - as well as the Dream Team.
And I'm so happy for CK! I love this magazine and hope it never goes away.
Posted by: Cathy | July 22, 2009 at 06:59 PM
That is the most beautiful album and when I think of you, one of the things I think of is the beach!! Perfect!
Hoping CK will ask you back for another run....we need more Suzy inspiration!!!
Posted by: annie | July 22, 2009 at 07:00 PM
I remember when you made it - loved it then and love it now. I was just reading the Aug. issue today and came across it and said "HEY! I know that project!". Love ya sistah. How are you??? We need to get together before the summer is over. xo.
Posted by: Lisa VanderVeen | July 22, 2009 at 09:08 PM
Thanks for being such a talented scrapbooker and great cheerleader for CK, Suzy! :)
Posted by: susan opel | July 26, 2009 at 11:54 AM
This is so innovative, not to mention GORGEOUS!
Posted by: Jill Sprott | July 27, 2009 at 05:00 PM
Absolutely incredible!!! I agree, CK is one of my favorite magazines!
Posted by: Suzanne | July 27, 2009 at 08:41 PM
hi suzy...love that CK will still be around...i just started getting the mag at beginning of the year...just LOVE it! Can't wait for it every month..and know i can continue that waiting ritual! and such a innovative way to use calm shells...way amazing and NEATO! thanks for your inspiration! hope to see u at a scrapbook oasis class..when is the next one?
Posted by: Jag Patel | August 03, 2009 at 06:42 PM