i {heart} papers design team challenge!

It's challenge time for our i {heart} papers team.  This month, we're featuring Spectrum Noir alcohol ink markers and our 12 x 12 collection packs.

Unfortunately, it's been Plan B (or C or D...) week for me!  I literally "popped" a muscle in my right calf last Monday, so I have been stuck in my favorite cushy chair with my leg iced and elevated all week long.  I haven't been brave enough to try to venture upstairs to my little stamp haven but once or twice, and even then only for a short time since I can't allow my leg to dangle for long.  Let me tell ya, hobbling around, having to depend on loved ones for every little thing, and being unable to drive really makes one appreciate the everyday little things and value one's independence!

All that being said, I'm sure you can tell that this project didn't make it much farther than the framework...all of the stamping, coloring, and embellishing are yet to be done!  This little pocket album is made using two 12 x 12 sheets of card stock, contrasting card stock for the pocket inserts, and lots of lovely designer paper.  I am hoping to finish it with some beautiful Lacy Layers stamps, matching dies, and some pretty floral images inside and out.

Here's how it was made:

• Trim 1 inch from one edge of one sheet of card stock, then cut the sheet into three 4 x 11 inch strips.  
• Score each strip 1/2 inch from each long edge and then at the 5, 5 1/2 and 6 inch marks.  Round the corners with a corner punch.
• From the second sheet, cut a strip of cardstock approximately 2 7/8 x 10 inches.
• Score at 4 1/2, 5, and 5 1/2 inches.
• Adhere the scored flaps to the long edges of the flat strip to make one long pocket, but leave the center "spine" portion and ends free.  Repeat for remaining pockets.  Once firmly set, fold each pocket along the center score line with the pockets facing each other.  
• Punch holes in the spine using a small hand-held punch.
• Stack the three layers together, and lace some ribbon through the holes from front to back, then around the spine back to the front.  Tie into a bow.
• Cut pocket inserts, ~2 3/4 x 5 inches.  Round corners and add pull tabs if desired.
• Stamp and embellish!

Be sure to visit my team mates and our guest, beloved, gorgeous Sankari!  Here are the links to their blogs!

• February's guest designer, Sankari Wegman
• Carole
• Gretchen
• Judy
• Lori
• Taylor
• Tracy
• Kate