Perfect Layers Tool

I've recently discovered a tool that is quickly becoming one of my favorites - the Perfect Layers tools by Perfect Paper Crafting. I use the mini, since I make cards, but there are several sizes available.

Basically, the Perfect Layers Mini lets me create perfectly matted images with no measuring, right down to 1/16", which I often like just to set a focal point off from the background a bit.

I'd had this on my wish list for awhile when I signed up for a Copics class at Simple Pleasures in Colorado Springs.  Before class I picked it up and was commenting to my friend that now I'd have to figure out how to use it.  And the TEACHER overheard and said she'd show me personally! Shelby Thomas is an awesome teacher and a really nice person, and in just a minute or so she made my life much easier. :-)

She's done a tutorial now, and graciously said I could share it here with you:
How to Make Perfect Layers

Let's Re-cycle!

One of the things I really like about Fun Stampers Journey is the way they pack orders for shipping.  Every item is carefully wrapped in zip plastic bags or bubble wrap, then the box is finally packed with brown paper to ensure nothing shifts.  I haven't been able to bring myself to throw the packing supplies away, and have been looking for a way to use it.  Then today I was reading a discussion about cards that need extra postage to mail.  Extra weight, lumpy surfaces, and being thicker than ¼" all need extra postage affixed.
And a sudden thought...why not use the bubble wrap to cover any lumpy bling-y surfaces like pearls and rhinestones?  It's lightweight and relatively thin.  So, I cut a few sheets into card-sized pieces.  Now, I just have to make a really lumpy card, send it to someone, and see if it comes back!