Saturday, September 15, 2012

One Of My Favorite Things Fun!

Good Morning Everybody!

Y'all ready for some fun? Today I wanted to start off the weekend with a little thank you fun!  I want to thank you, my followers, for your kind and generous comments, support and love!  So, allow me to thank you by having a little PRIZE action!  What do you think?  Game?


Ok, here's the deal....Please be a follower to join in the fun....If you aren't a follower, well consider joining us!...You will at least come away with a laugh eventually... maybe even some inspiration!  I hope!  :)

Next, in the comment section leave a suggestion for a project using Graphic 45's Bird Song Collection. This amazing collection is Asian inspired and really, really gorgeous!  Take a gander of the whole collection here:


Here's the Give-a-Way Thank You Prize....Fiskars ProCision 12 Inch Rotary Bypass Trimmer!!!

One of my favorite tools in the shed (like I have room for any more!  Good Gravy!) is the new Fiskars ProCision 12 Inch Rotary Bypass Trimmer.  You know how I love my Rotatrim Mastercut...I mean Love this Trimmer!  However, this trimmer is really expensive.  I have had so many emails from followers wanting this amazing trimmer but it was too hard to part with the cash to purchase it.  Well, this new Fiskars trimmer is more affordable ($120.00) and really amazing!  A wonderful option.

Here's what it looks like....

So once again, be a follower, leave a comment in the comment section below with a project using the Graphic 45 Bird Song collection and I will pick one of your projects on Thursday, Sept. 20th.  I will make this as one of my monthly projects for Graphic 45 and name it in your honor and you will have a brand new Fiskars ProCision 12 Inch Rotary Bypass Trimmer!

How's that?  Fun?
Let's get going!  Yahooo!

Jim
The Gentleman Crafter

152 comments:

  1. The paper collection really is beautiful! When I think of Asian themed projects, my first thought was of a pagoda looking small chest that sits up on legs. Either with drawers or a hinged lift top. Then a wonderful matching mini album could be stored inside!! hahaha... now I will have to make one for myself!! Good idea I think. We have some some music boxes that he brought back from Korea when he was stationed there. They are beautiful lacquered wood with brass embossed and etched designs. They have secret drawers... that would be fun to include in the pagoda box!

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  2. Good Morning Jim, I just fell in love with Bird Song immediately, but I do not have oriental decor in my home. However, I adore Japanese gardens and do have a tendancy to try my hand at trying to recreate them in my yard. How about a 3D garden project. Great way to end the summer.
    Marcie

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  3. Good Morning Jim

    How about your own spin on the japanese hidden box?
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIs0CwEQzFQ
    Looks both fun an challenging!
    Debbie

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    1. I love this idea Debbie and Jim (the creator of all things boxes) would be the perfect one for the job!! The larger compartment would be a great place to house a mini or some such other treasure.

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  4. Already a happy follower and am always inspired by your creations. Love the Bird Song papers. They are so beautiful (like all the other G45 papers :) Thanks for the info on the trimmer. I am certainly considering it. Thanks for the chance to win too.

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  5. I think a mini folding screen divider would be awesome! It could hide the crafty mess when people are visiting, lol!!! Hugs, Brigitte

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  6. I love this paper collection. A Japanese gazebo with colorful paper lanterns gently swaying in the breeze would be so pretty.

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    1. When you pull out the steps that lead to the gazebo you would find a hidden chamber (drawer)in which to hide little treasures.

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  7. A Pagoda with tea service being held inside. Anything you do will be fantastic. I have the trimmer so don't pick me but consider my idea. LOVE your work.

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  8. Love this collection. How about a mini jewelry armoire with these beautiful papers?

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  9. Hi Jim.
    First of all thank you for all your inspiring work.
    One project I would love to se, was an asian inspired chest of drawers. In Denmark we have a tradition of writing songs when ewer someone is celebrating a big day, like a wedding for instance. the songs are then presented to the party in some sort of dekorated container. as it goes I have a friend who is from Korea that is getting married next spring and it would really be a wow factor to be able to present something unik for her. And it goes without saing that I would LOVE for you to make a tutorial.
    My best wishes from Anne Andersen

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  10. Maybe I just don't have the wonderful imagination of everyone else, I love all their suggestions. I was thinking of an Altered Paintbrush. It would be interesting to see your spin on this ever popular project. I have to say as always: I love everything that you make, most of it would never come up in my mind.
    Thank you.

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  11. Hi there Jim,
    I came to your site from the Scrapadabadoo link and am enjoying exploring your projects and musings. Good luck to you on this adventure/calling/journey... These papers are lovely and my first thought is to create some beautiful paper lanterns in a variety of shapes and sizes. Also, I thought of creating screens(either window or free standing dressing type)- not as adventurous as many of your projects-but all that is coming to mind.

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  12. Oh fun! It will be great to see all the ideas! You are so generous and good to us! When I look at bird song I can't help but remember the jewelry box that my Dad brought back from the Navy. It was one that was black with the inlay. What held my fascination was all the compartments and drawers. It was on various dressers in the family for as long as I can remember as my Dad was overseas before I was born. Now that both of my parents have passed I'm not sure where it ended up but I still have my memories of it. I think a lot of those types of boxes look like the pearls of wisdom paper but I was thinking the joy luck floral would look great on the outside of a box. Jim I would love to see what kind of multi compartmented and drawered unit you could make with bird song . Ok, wow I really wrote a novel. Amazing how a paper or pattern can bring a memory to life! If you are still with me, ha, ha, thanks for letting me go on. Looking forward to seeing what all of you come up.

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  13. Like the others, I really get inspired by your wonderful creations. I love this new Graphic 45 oriental paper line and would like to see something that could hang from my ceiling like a "bird cage" with lots of the birds, flowers, etc. Mostly everything that people create requires table space I would like something that needs to be suspended since I appear to be running out of tablespace. Just a suggestion. Thanks for sharing your great ideas with us.

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  14. oooh you need to make a 3-D design and name it Sayonara. But you need pics of Red Buttons and Miyosha Umeki. Ooops maybe this movie was before your time. LOL But whatever you do will be awesome.

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  15. I saw this furniture accessory that is really cute it had a round feature inside I'm assuming it spins with support around it with beautiful carving (that could be accomplished with dies. Check out this picture http://www.antiquescn.com/prodshow.asp?ProdId=TF-E20
    Love all your projects I'm sure you will chose something great.

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  16. Hi Jim, generous prize....hope it comes to my house! How about a pagoda or one of those walkin bridges and don't forget to incorporate an umbrella. Whatever you create will be awesome....just like you!

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  17. When I see the beautiful bird song collection it reminds me of the awesome chinese characters. It's a complete art and study of a lifetime to draw (I don't dare to say write) those characters. There is so much in it: art, meditation, harmony etc.
    So, how about a stationary set? I mean the whole set: notebook, brush, cards, letter paper, maybe a calendar for good measure. And, off course a lovely covered and embellished map to keep it all nicely together? It would make an awesome gift for Christmas! Thank you so much for a chance to win a fabulous trimmer!

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  18. My first thought is a Japanese garden with a little chipboard bridge over a stream with the lovely Geisha crossing the bridge. In the background...hummmm...trees with the beautiful cherry blossoms and birds. Or same idea in the vein of your haunted house only with a pagoda that hides a secret mini book.

    Great contest!! Love everyone's ideas and seriously...I thought of my idea before I read all the others so I'm not copying but certainly thinking about the same things. :-)

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  19. I love all the suggestions, especially those with the pagoda. I need to think of something on my own so I thought about the kimono, as you open the kimono there is a minibook inside.

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  20. I was thinking paper lanterns, maybe lots of different sizes and with a little ledge for holding electric tea lights inside(for safety!) suspended from silk cord and Japanese paper beads - made from this paper of course!


    Penny

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  21. I cpuld see you using this to create a small Asian village with a pagoda and some other buildings. Your creativity is always interesting to see!

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  22. First thought that came to mind is a pagoda. Just don't ask me how!!! heehee

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  23. A hanging Japanese lantern....maybe...would be so cool!

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  24. well as you know i am a folkartist...what better folkart than using that wonderful paper for a chinoiseri altered cabinet!

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  25. Hi Jim What a good idea for a contest! Everyone has such good ideas! I first thought of a pagoda or a garden with a bridge.Something that depicts the old world Japan. Maybe a Geisha or a Samurai warrior.With your talent and imagination, I'm sure you'll come up with the perfect combination that will showcase G45 and make us all want it ;)LOL Can't wait to see what you do! Iris, SavedbyGrace

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  26. My first thought was a drumtower or a padoga - there is a beautiful one in Xian, lots of history and neighbor with the terracotta army! How's that for inspiration:) But as you've already made a hokura(so amazing!!) I ask myself if you would find it challenging enough. Sure there will be several floors instead and you could make it round like the temple of heaven in Beijing. I also think of the Chinese lanterns, but you are not unfamiliar with round shapes either. Characteristic are also all the wonderful kites... Since yours will never need to prove "flyability" you could decorate it wildly and these kites have all shapes, forms and sizes... Yeah, I'm getting really worked up about the kite. I'd love to see what you can do with that thought. I won't even mention my idea about the fan that all women seems to be caring - LOL!!! Good luck!! Can't wait to see what you create! Love all your posts, if I haven't laughed all day I sure will after reading your blog:) Lots of love!!!

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  27. What a nice challenge, Jim!

    I can see a *Gong* (in hanging form) being made out of this paper. The *gong* being old C.D.s used as the *mini*....hmmmm....I just might have to try that myself. Sounds like a good idea. I know that you would be able to send it to the moon and back tho.

    Go get 'em...
    ~Jill <--- in California

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  28. As a follower I am awed by your generosity! How about a hanging lantern with a Japanese garden inside. A diorama.

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  29. Hey Jim. A Japanese Ship Chest looks exactly like something you would make with the metals and the grunge look, but maybe not right for the paper. But there are some cool Japanese Tea Chests that would go great with the this paper or you can try your hand at making the Japanese Step Chest.

    Good Luck choosing one of these great ideas

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  30. Really fun and different idea for a giveaway. You are so inspiring. How about the Taj Mahal and in it could be famous quotes of inspiration and wisdom. This paper collection has got to be my favorites so far. A true Japanese garden green house with all it's geometric influence and symbolism would be cool. Using the elements like the money tree-wind, water, fire wood and metal. I just know when the right thing hits you and you set down to create it, it will be fabulous as usual!!!!

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  31. OH MY GOSH Y'ALL! You have some amazing ideas! Keep 'em coming! I knew you all would! You always do! I'm having the time of my life reading your comments and ideas! How fun! Thank you all for playing along! Much appreciated! Hugs to you all!

    Jim

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  32. Hi Jim, thank you for this opportunity. All the above suggestions are very good and we will love whatever you choose. I would to suggest either a Rik-shaw or a Samurai Sword. I really enjoy your blog, facebook, YT shows, and your occasional appearances on Kathryn Scraps and Kathy O's Paper phenomenon. Are you ever gonna have a regularly scheduled UStream show? You already have such a nice following.
    Thanks, Annette

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  33. What about a temple from one of the Japanese gardens. such as Kyoto. The pics of their gardens always look so peaceful and inviting. Or a configuration type box filled with many different elements. I know anything you make will be wonderful. A follower from the beginning. thanks as always for sharing.

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  34. Hi,
    I'm a recently new follower and love your work. I think a mini tea house would be wonderful.

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  35. As I sit on my couch recovering from back surgery (BTW, it WORKED! no more, none, nada, zero, sciatica) all you can do is give me more wonderful projects to NEED to do?
    I already want to do a LO using the pagoda outline, and Laura's Asian mini and so many others. I even have my friend buying me pads of Bird Song so that I don't miss out while I recuperate! What would I like to suggest? How about a Dragon themed mini? Or table-top lanterns? Or a lacquer chest? Or?
    I wait with baited breathe! DoriG

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  36. I didn't have time to read all the comments so I hope that I'm not duplicating anyone's. I love your creative mind by the way :) I would love to see you create a garden scene with of course fish1 and fish2, sorry Dr. Seuss attack. What every you choose I know that it will be brilliant.

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  37. When I think of Japan or China, my mind goes back to long ago. I often think of sailing ships and such. Then the actual arrival and the wonderful archetecture there. The tea houses and the geisha houses, the theaters where they did their kabuki presentations. I love miniatures, so I'm thinking in terms of a whole little town. But I know you don't want it that intricate. So, the paper speaks to me of Geisha's, so a geisha house with a mini inside it. What do you think? I would love anything. TFS Hugs, Jess

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  38. Ok Jim, let's have some fun. The first thing that came to my mind when I saw the Bird Song Graphic 45 paper. Was would it be neat to make a neat Sake set kind of like your fantastic Wine Gift Box set. Maybe even throw in some special altered chop sticks. I think you see where I am going with this one. As always thanks for brightening and inspiring my creative side.
    Patti n SLC

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  39. Ok Jim here goes. I would love to see a chest with multiple levels, or a beautiful folding screen, or a six sided temple.

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    1. The Multi level chest is called a step tansu. Really pretty.

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  40. I have no wonderful ideas for ya, I'm of a simple mind and a just a nifty mini would be something I'd like to see because I have a friend I'd like to make a mini for with this paper and I'd love to see some ideas. (wow run on sentence much?!) BUT, I popped in to say what a nice thing you are doing and I see you are already getting lots of great things to ponder! good luck!

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  41. Always love your postings....we speak the same language. How about one of those cabinets that look like steps with drawers....I think it is a Japanese step tansu (had to look it up,I think I got the name right). Could be used for storage. I can see your name written all over it or my name if I win:) Would love to have the trimmer, thanks for the opportunity! Great prize!

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  42. Jim, how about a rickshaw with a series of mini books that showcase this gorgeous paper! Whatever you come up with will be wonderful. Thanks!

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  43. How about a shadow box with 12 sections, each decorated for on of the signs of the Chinese zodiac
    I had one of those cutters in my hands in J's this morning, but I'd already spent $70 and I didn't want the mean customs officers to make me pay duty ... I believe if I'm shopping less than an hour from home it shouldn't matter what country it's in LOL

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  44. Oops got excited about the prize, guess I should have read the other suggestions first. Okay, how about a tall kitchen chest display tansu that has drawers and compartments with sliding doors. Some have doors with rice paper or open with bamboo rails. Or how about a double peddler's box with shoulder bar. You don't see one of those everyday.

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  45. Gosh! hmmmmm. OK. How's about a Japanese coin purse (love the dinky way they open). Of course it could also have a matching wallet, glasses case, key fob and pen case (with Japanese pen inside). Wouldn't that look lovely!

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  46. First time poster but long time lurker so I hope this works. I would love to see a miniature Buddha Shrine/Alter cabinet. If you google it you can find tons of images from simple to very elaborate and ornate.

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  47. Hi Jim, I would love to see you make an Asian style lantern, possibly with a little storage drawer at the bottom. I'm sure whatever you make will be amazing!

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  48. ok, i think a great project for you to make would be a large maybe 18-24 inches high bird house. with your imagination i see it with layers of facets of life scenes. each layer being different and of course with secret cubbies and surprises along the way. an oragami bird or two hanging out and some tim holtz metal along the way. ok i can't tell you any more or you won't have any of your creativity to use along the way.

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  49. Back in the 70's I visited Chinatown in San Francisco and got a table side Japanese Light that had a moving piece inside that spun around and you could see the images of the paper on the wall as it spun in the night. Of course, yours would have a small drawer in it that would hold a mini--fortune cookie?aka sweetad aka Karen Seidlitz

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  50. I think you should make a Chinese Parade Dragon, and with all your ingenuity you should find a fun way to make it move!

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  51. When I saw this paper my first thought was to make a fan using it. I would use the Sizzix Bigz Die - Dresden Plate die. Glue the paper to chip board and then cut the pieces and put together with a long brad. Add a tassel around the brad and you have a wonderful fan.

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  52. Jim, Why not a Tea House with the lanterns leading up the walkway? I would love to see this, and you are so completely capable of executing the design and the scaled work. Then you could share a pattern for one of the lanterns.

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  53. Hi Jim, what about a jewellery wardrobe/closet in these papers with a drawer underneath for a mini. What ever you choose I will be buying the tutorial if you produce one. Lovely prize by the way!

    Sue

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  54. Hi Sir Jim, wow you are amazing giving this away, how about a bento box, curved dome with two sections with a removable shelf inside with tags instead of a mini in lower section

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  55. 2 Door jewelry cabinet with a drawer underneath. When you open the doors, a couple smaller drawers on one side with just an opening on the other. I have a similar cabinet that my mother gave me from China, though it is more of an end table size. You could maybe glossy it up somehow to make it look laquered! Love your work and your blog.

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  56. Love your blog and your generous time in sharing with us. I think this paper would make a beautiful tea set with the tray sliding open wih a mini inside.Maybe a tea pot mini.

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  57. Love all your work, and your blogs, always makes me laugh. My idea would be a Chinese house with fans that pull out from each side from the back of the house that would be consider the mini part of the construction to hold photo's or tell what each month Chinese symbols means with 6 pages on each fan and maybe a bridge or pond under the house. Keep up the great work my dear friend

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    1. I had forgot to add incorporate chops sticks in the binding of the fans albumns that fold out on each side from the back of the house

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  58. I'm thinking of a jewelry box with a geisha. Love your blog. You are so funny and enormously talented!

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  59. I would love to see some sort of tea cabinet with this paper. The doors would be Asian style with frosted glass. Inside would be shelves where you could store the tea containers. I enjoy your blog and have found lots of inspiration. Thanks for sharing your talents with us.

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  60. I think some sort of tea set, with a tray. I know whatever you do, it will be awesome!

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  61. Since this is such a feminine paper, I am throwing you a curve ball and wanting a masculine item... A Japanese Junque (Ship). You could do amazing sails with this paper. Whatever you do will be amazing.

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  62. Hi 'Generous Jim'!! All of your work is amazing!! Love your blogs--they put a smile on my heart!! Bird Song is so Beautiful--I think that you could make such a beautiful Chinese Altar Cabinet!! It has a wonderful shape that just begs for your creative structuring--very pleasing to the eye with the possibility for unique elements and a place for an album if you so desire. It would definitely be something I would want to create with your instruction!! Thank You So Much for Your Inspiration each day!!

    God Bless--Judy

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  63. Awesome contest, Jim. There are the most amazing ideas in all the posts.I love the shape of fans. I thought of a fan-shaped box with a fan-shped mini inside. I really like Kimmie's idea of a Tea cabinet or tea chest. Tim has that new frosted paper coming out that would work for the doors.This has been very fun.
    Hugs
    Mo(Mori49)

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  64. ok im kinda seeing a box with a drawer with three japanese lanterns kinda stair steped. each showing off a different paper. fussy cut geisha in each one surrounded by stamped cut flowers from stamp set one. the base of each lantern could be a kinda drawer, containing a round mini album with pockets and tags. this could be awesome for a trip with each mini showcasing a different region or activity. maby set a flickering flameless tealight in the top of the lantern to give it some illumination. I plan on working up something similar to this for christmas but it would be beautiful in an asian theme as well. I am a fairly new fan but I want to thank you for all the inspiration.

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  65. How do you match any of these ideas? But I'll give it a try, love the japanese gardens, with pond and some sort of floating platform/deck with it thick enough to hold a mini, maybe even a little tea-house on that platform/dock. Which gives me an idea...thanks, if I get something pulled together I'll share with you in pictures. Cripes, what have you done to me....thanks for all the great ideas, now to get busy !!!

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  66. How about an asian lantern with a mini inside. I'm sure you could use this idea and come up with something gorgeous! You can do it, Jim!

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  67. I would just make an album that goes in a table and donate it to a Vet! I have seen these beautiful black, gold, and red tables they are so beautiful.

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  68. This collection is so pretty! I think some sort of Asian screen/set of panels would be fantastic. Thanks for the chance to win!

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  69. Oh Jimbo! You are such a fun person! Ok, I thought about this all day and most of the things I thought of, well, someone already has spoken for.....So I'm left with my original thought, which is really only half a thought (hahaha) since I still can't quite visualize the finished product. That's where YOU come in! I thought I would give you my inspiration and let you run with it! I was thinking of going with "Memoirs of a Geisha". Many have the thought of a Geisha as a “lady of the night”; however, the most literal translation of the word GEISHA actually translate into English as: be "artist," "performing artist," or "artisan,” which I thought most fitting for us crafters! There is a scene in the movie when the main character is still a young girl that focuses around a lotus tree in the village where she first speaks with the man she falls in love with. I noticed that in the “Tranquility” paper there is a beautiful lotus tree, so I thought that tied in well. Of course there is a graceful Geisha lady that appears to be performing and lots lotus flower in the “Bird Song” paper; as well as the “Pearls of Wisdom” reflecting the beauty of Asia culture. In fact, I can see many parts of the movie reflective in each page of this serene line. Anyway, I was thinking that as crafters, we all could have our own Memoirs of a Geisha!

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    1. What a wonderful suggestion, and so eloquently stated.

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  70. Hmm I think most everything has been already imagined but many years ago while studying Japanese at University our teacher bought in some items she had bought in Japan whilst there. Amongst them were these little 'washi ningyo' dolls. These are exquisite tiny 3D dolls in Kimono's. You can also put little 'wagasa's' (umbrella's) with them. I am not sure this would be up your ally but with your imagination and skills I can see these ending up been something very special for people to give as gifts. Thank you for all the inspiration this is inspiring in the community.

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  71. Hi Jim,
    First I want to say Thank you again for sharing your wonderful pieces of Art. How about a mini album using origami folds to crate pages, pockets. etc. Thanks for the fun contests.

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  72. Love this new line of Graphic 45 papers. I am also LOVING your giveaway. I have this on my supply bucket list. Some ideas for using this paper would be for some Japenese Lanterns, or some paper umbrellas, or some paper fans, or some 3d oragami flowers, Japenese cherry blossoms, flowers, or Bunraku, which is Japenese Puppet theater. That is all I can think of off the top of my head. Thanks for doing this giveaway!! (fingers crossed) BTW, how are you enjoying being on Blogger?? well hope you are having an enjoyable weekend.
    Many Blessings,
    Kimmie <3

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  73. wow I love your projects and you are so creative. These ideas are all so fabulous. How about a japanese ikebana, flower arranging. In the japanese culture Ikeana is a very popular hobby because it is very soothing. In the Japanese culture people find a hobby and stick with it. They never do multiple hobbies at once. Ikebana is pronounced E-K-bana rhymes with mama. You can make a decorative container that holds the flower arrangement and then a decorative tray to put it all on. Thank you so much for the chance to win. Hugs Tracy

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  74. Jim ... thanks for all your inspiration and wonderful projects. I have been wanting a rotary cutter for some time but the cost is a little out of my reach so this would be an awesome prize to win. I would love to see some kind of jewelry box made using this paper especially with an area to store my wedding rings at night. Again, thanks for the opportunity to to win! Michele

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  75. Hi Jim, You inspire me with your awesome imagination and I am sure whatever you decide on will be beautiful. My suggestion is a Japanese tea room with sliding panels - it could incorporate some origami. Thanks for the opportunity to win this great prize! Liz xx

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  76. I haven't had the opportunity to read previous comments so these may have been mentioned. I suggest the square screen lantern or going way out on a "limb" by saying a bonsai tree! lol LOVE everything you do.
    Teresa

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  77. Hi Jim I have followed you for a while and love everything you do. This paper is so beautiful and I would love to see a Japanese lamp with a mini in the bottom. My folks were stationed there a long time ago and I have pictures from that time. They had the most beautiful hanging lamps on the porch. I was 6 weeks old when they moved there and 6 years old when we came back to the United States. Thank you for this chance to win such a great prize.

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  78. it would be neat if you could make some kind of a bird cage like a nightinggale cage with a cool scene inside or around a base....i know you would be able to make it woek

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  79. How about a shinto shrine, or a cabinet to hold a small tea set? Or an artist brush case?

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  80. I think a decorative piece that would stand on it's own would be nice like a samurai warrior (female) full armor. I think it would be something you could sink teeth into and make it awesome, like all your projects. can't wait to see the next project. Thanks for all the inspiration.

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  81. Hi Jim, Thanks for all the inspiration you give me!!! When I hear bird song, I think of the wind through the trees listening to the birds sing and of a chime or mobile in the breeze!!!! Totally unexpected with this paper I think!!!! Good luck and can not wait to see what you make!!!
    Laura

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  82. Hi Jim . . . I am already a follower who loves the way your mind works and your wonderful humor!!! You create some pretty amazing projects and I see that you already have quite a few suggestions. When I saw the G45 Bird Song line I immediately thought of my deceased mother-in-law (who was the mother I always wanted) and who would have loved getting any project that was created in this line. And when thinking of her I remembered what she admired the most was the stories she would see in Asian art work and the simplicity of the art. My suggestion is a box that when the lid is lifted a flower arrangement springs up representing the sun, the moon & the earth. I know that whatever you create will be beautiful.

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  83. I have a box that was my mother in laws she would have been 98. I has two doors that open up and a drawer at the bottom it's a jewelrey box oh and also has a flip top for storage also. Thanks for the chance for the cutter I hate my zutter cutter you can't cut pieces under two inches with it.

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  84. When i look at this paper i think of a secret compartment box. Something that may look simple to open or figure out but you have to touch the right spots to open a specific area sort of like a puzzle where the compartments are never really where you'd think they are or can be? Hope that make sense lol.Anything you create will be awesome..thanks for the chance to win!!!!

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  85. Hi Jim, I have recently purchased some crafty domino tiles. These are just awesome! You can do so many things with them. What about using them with the birdsong paper set & accessories to make your own mahjong set. You could even make a matching storage box out of chipboard. I would just love this. Hugs, Theresa

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  86. How about a Tea House? Lift the lid and there's a mini-album inside. You KNOW how much we love your Mini's!

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  87. how about some sort of fan mini? I can't think of how it would work, but I would to see one out of these pages...

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  88. Wow, what a great idea for a contest with and awesome prize and you've certainly been given a ton of fabulouos suggestions! I don't have anything to offer that hasn't already been mentioned, but one thing is for certain.....whatever you choose to make will absolutely FABULOUS!!!! I can't wait to see the finished project! Thank you for your inspiraton. ~Patti~

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  89. How about a Chinese lantern. they can be very intricate.
    Love seeing all your projects.

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  90. Ok never mind the lanterns they've already been mentioned. So I went back and read what everyone else has suggested. One thing I didn't see was a warriors sword and it's holder.

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  91. Hi Jim, I think a decorative mirror would be perfect. You could alter one or make one out of chipboard & apply a mirror tile. Decorative mirrors are very popular in Japan due to their use in feng shui. They are used to bring positive chi (energy) & expand space. They are linked to the water element due to their reflective nature, which works well with the turquoise in the papers. Guilding the edges of the frame after decorating with gold flakes (e.g. With the brilliant indigoblu glue set you were sent by one of your generous followers) is said to attract wealth. As will the application of 3 money coins on a red ribbon. You never know you might attract so much we can have you crafting full time LOL! Crafty Wishes Barbara

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  92. When I first read this, I immediately thought of a trip I took years ago to Butchart Gardens in Victoria BC.A curved bridge over a stream with a pergola type gate entrance and all the beautiful flowers and Japanese/Asian influenced hard scape. To be able to reproduce this memory into a decor piece with a mini album using the gorgeous papers and that awesome looking trimmer would be just too much to ask for but with your ability to create I know you can do it. Thanks for bringing up memories for me.

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  93. How about a trinket box to store all the wondrous goodies from The Crafty Scrapper? Now I know why you love that place, it's huge!

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  94. i am a newbee here but i came to youre blog by a link from our pitaqueen kathy love youre ideas can you not do tutorials like her love to make some off youre projects you are very talented cant wait to see more on youre blog its insperational.

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  95. I have been crafting for 16 yrs. and can not begin to come up with what you do. I am not a big fan of Asia design but you made this one fun with the mirror and all.
    I make a lot of what you design and am having a ball with the Halloween cylinder. I am on my fourth one, it is for my brother. I sent him a pic and he loved it.
    Can not wait to get my Asia paper to try this one.
    Thank you for all of your inspiration for us. We love you.
    God Bless You,
    Connie

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  96. I think that a "Happy Chinese New Year" banner would be cool. You can make it pretty big and use all the neat paper that this collection has to offer. What a great "New Year" keepsake decoration it would be! Can't wait to see what you make, and I could sure use one of those trimmers! Thanks for being so generous.

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  97. I think the other ladies have it almost right. It needs to be a complete Japanese garden with pagoda bridge umbrellas and of course Koi.You can do this. Kind of like your other multi dimensional designs. LOVE THEM.

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  98. I'm thinking of two projects Jim: a multi-tiered pagoda with the turned up corners or a tea house with a moon at the top (remember Tea House of the August Moon movie??). Anyway, hope you pick me but good luck to everyone!

    Mary

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  99. Just love this paper. Was thinking of something like a Buddhist Temple as they are very beautiful buildings found this picture for inspiration http://i23.ebayimg.com/01/i/07/2e/ef/a4_10.JPG.

    Keep those fantastic project coming only found you today and just loving watching your you tube videos

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  100. Hi Jim
    I'm thinking the pagoda and bridge also. I can so see you creating a stunning one. Thankx 4 the chance to win.
    Hugz
    Tonniece

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  101. please a tea box and house.. zo japan

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  102. Hi Jim! I had a couple of ideas. I picture an Asian styled cabinet and when you open it there is an fan that is spread, you would then fold down the fan ( close it) to reveal a pagoda with one of the ladies (fussy cut out) sitting on a garden bench in front. I hope you like my idea or it sparks some creative flame! I also thought of the Asian Gongs with the large stands holding them. Take care and happy scrapping!

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  103. Yahoo my lucky no. 100, I just found your blog, can't believe I haven't heard about you. You are the BOMB, Your work is exceptional so beautiful. Sadly I live in Canada postage is outrageous. I to LOVE the rain LOL.. I can't wait to see what you do.... Lots of love from Canada..
    (BF with Tonniece)
    Okay second post now I'm 105 now. I think any thing you make will be amazing....

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  104. Well, when I first read your post, I had a vision of a mini album "gong" hanging off of a beautiful stand, but then I decided to glance through some of the other posts to see if that had already been suggested, and although I didn't see one (didn't read them all either I must confess) I did read the suggestion of a mahjong game set and case and I have to say I LOVE LOVE LOVE that idea!!!! Could they be combined I'd be in crafting heaven!!!!!!!! Maybe the gong stand could rest atop the mahjong tiles case or be part of it?????? Mini album documenting the family times together playing games...okay, I'll stop!

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  105. I think a beautiful Japanese garden lantern (to me these represent Japan with all of the beauty in their gardens)with a mini would be beautiful out of this paper. However, I know whatever you choose to do will be beautiful. I love all of your creations and think they can not get any more awesome and beautiful, until you unveil the next one.

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  106. Hi Jim,
    What about using one of those paper mache mannequins and doing a geisha girl and fan? You could make it so fab!!!!! With white face and sticks in her hair and the fan could be removable. Her platform could actually be a drawer for a mini?

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  107. I love the colors of this colection, I would love to see a 3D Kimono where you could hide something beautiful in the garment when it opens -

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  108. Hi Jim, it's Barbara again! When thinking of possible projects I kept thinking of the beautiful traditional Japanese masks & their use to transcend our own existence. With Halloween coming up there are a lot of masks about, even some of the traditional Japanese Noh masks (particularly Oni = devil mask). However, these all tend to be scary. I thought you could make something beautiful that could hang on the wall all year round. The only problem was I couldn't see how you would do this with the papers. Then suddenly this evening I remembered Claudine Hellmuth's technique of transferring images onto metal with multi-matte medium. This technique works on almost any 3D surface.
    Crafty wishes, Barbara

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  109. This paper is gorgeous! It reminds me of the some decorative wall panels I once had as well as a jewelry box which had scenes done with a mother of pearl. I can see this paper on a set of boxes/chests or used in a collage for a set of canvases to decorate the wall.

    Whatever you come up with i am sure will be simply stunning!

    KimMJ
    bast830@comcast.net

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  110. Woo hoo! What a GREAT prize! Thanks Jim!

    I think a beautiful Geisha Doll in a shadow like box would be gorgeous! Plus it could have a drawer with a mini!

    Can't wait to see who wins this great prize!

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  111. Hi Jim, Wow, all the wonderful ideas for you already. I like the idea of the chest, and the tea box and bento box. What I'd really like to see you create would be one of the lion dancers costumes. Lion head with all the trimmings and bells. Would love that but whatever you finally make will be amazing. Thanks for letting us be a part of your designing process.

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  112. I think a Japanese Pagoda would be very cool. You could cut out the Japanese woman and have her standing inside the hut. You could make rice paper screens. Have the little table and pillow in the floor.
    ~Aunnie

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  113. Jim, I just got back from a fun weekend with my daughter. I went down to visit her at UofM and saw the game in the Big House and did mega shopping! What a great contest to come home to.
    I think you should make a japanese tea set or saki set with a tray. Or maybe a Sake set with tray to use for pencils, pens paper clips etc.
    My other idea is to take a dress form, possibly paper mache and make her into a Geisha girl complete with fan and or umbrella maybe with a dragon at her feet. If anyone could do it you could.
    I'd love for you to pick one of my ideas, I have been wanting a new trimmer and this is so generous of you, thanks for the chance to win it. Shari

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  114. I just had another idea, how about a jewelry box type corner cabinet with lots of tiny drawers? Kind of tri-angle type shape, if that makes any sense.

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  115. This paper is sooooo beautiful and such gorgeous flora and birdlife that it deserves to be on layouts. Too beautiful to use all on one project - spread the love I say!
    Thanks for the opportunity to win this awesome trimmer, Jim!
    Smiles
    Jen

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  116. Jim had yet another idea for the Bird Song paper. How about a project based on the Mikado, you know Gilbert and Sullivan's operetta with the three little japanese maidens?

    Mary

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  117. Jim what a great idea. Like so many others when I look at this paper it make me think of the Japanese tea ceremony. I would love to see a tea house with those lovely sliding doors using velum.

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  118. ...You are such a talent and have been following you for some time now.. Sooooo many ideas have been ** thrown ** at you.. Duck,, here is one more idea,, lol a suggestion of doing a
    kitchen canister set ( not sure it could actually hold food unless you enclose rubbermaid or tupperware ) lol. Thanks for listening... you are fab...mitz_zee@yahoodotcom

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  119. ...You are such a talent and have been following you for some time now.. Sooooo many ideas have been ** thrown ** at you.. Duck,, here is one more idea,, lol a suggestion of doing a
    kitchen canister set ( not sure it could actually hold food unless you enclose rubbermaid or tupperware ) lol. Thanks for listening... you are fab...mitz_zee@yahoodotcom

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  120. ...You are such a talent and have been following you for some time now.. Sooooo many ideas have been ** thrown ** at you.. Duck,, here is one more idea,, lol a suggestion of doing a
    kitchen canister set ( not sure it could actually hold food unless you enclose rubbermaid or tupperware ) lol. Thanks for listening... you are fab...mitz_zee@yahoodotcom

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  121. ...You are such a talent and have been following you for some time now.. Sooooo many ideas have been ** thrown ** at you.. Duck,, here is one more idea,, lol a suggestion of doing a
    kitchen canister set ( not sure it could actually hold food unless you enclose rubbermaid or tupperware ) lol. Thanks for listening... you are fab...mitz_zee@yahoodotcom

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  122. ...You are such a talent and have been following you for some time now.. Sooooo many ideas have been ** thrown ** at you.. Duck,, here is one more idea,, lol a suggestion of doing a
    kitchen canister set ( not sure it could actually hold food unless you enclose rubbermaid or tupperware ) lol. Thanks for listening... you are fab...mitz_zee@yahoodotcom

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  123. ...You are such a talent and have been following you for some time now.. Sooooo many ideas have been ** thrown ** at you.. Duck,, here is one more idea,, lol a suggestion of doing a
    kitchen canister set ( not sure it could actually hold food unless you enclose rubbermaid or tupperware ) lol. Thanks for listening... you are fab...mitz_zee@yahoodotcom

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  124. This paper collection is really beautiful!
    I would like you to do japanese-kite-dragon. He cold heve hidden in his body (segments) a few mini albums - every one of them different (some bigger, some smaller). This collection is such adorable that deserves to be perpetuated in history!

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  125. I've had another idea what about a 3D Kimono which opens up at the front with hidden draws and a mini. Or what about a rickshaw

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  126. I love the idea of a dress form with fan/;umbrella and dragon at her feet that was suggested above. I thing it should be placed in a gazebo-type structure... the right word escapes me at the moment... possibly a tea house. Once I read that idea in the comments, I couldn't visualize anything else!!

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  127. I've been on vacation, so not online much--coming late to this party! But I'll bet you, Jim, could come up with a way to use Birdsong to illustrate The Emperor and the Nightingale legend--complete with palace, nightingale cage, Emperor and Bird....a Panorama, maybe? Inside a Pagoda? But whatever you choose and make, it will be amazing and wonderful, I know!

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  128. Wow, Jim...I've been snowed under with company, and am so far behind in my blog reading. This is some pretty awesome blog candy. And it's not even quite Trick or Treat yet!

    I love origami boxes. I know the G45 paper is a little too thick for origami, but I bet you are clever enough to figure out how to do some faux origami boxes from this gorgeous collection. Wouldn't they be pretty tucked into the Christmas tree????????????

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  129. I am sure that what ever you design will be fabulous! My idea is somewhat similar to one above - a pagoda inspired birdcage with a blossoming cherry tree branch running through the birdcage. And of course beautiful asian birds perched on the branch. You gotta have the birds - the line is called "Bird Song" after all. If you are feeling really creative - a mini album incorporated into the birdcage. Perhaps a drawer at the base that houses the mini album or the base of the birdcage is the mini album. Thanks so much for your inspiration. I look forward to reading your blog - you make me laugh as well as inspire.

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  130. OH! Just thougth of something else...why not make a box to hold those calligraphy brushes and ink stone...of course it could hold craft supplies....chinoiseri paper on outside,, red on inside..with utee ot make it look like that oriental jappaned ware...very highly pollished enamel....

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  131. The paper is so pretty, I'm sure whatever you come with will be awesome! Something to do with tea. I know tea house has been mentioned.

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  132. Love this paper! Just bought it today actually!
    A Japanese Lantern with storage drawers would be AWESOME! Well that's the first thing that popped into my head anyway :D

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  133. How generous of you Jim! You have had many wonderful ideas already and I am struggling to think of anything oriental but different - except Sushi (but I've no idea how that would work in G45 papers)! I love the idea of a birdcage - I'm sure I've seen somewhere that in China they take their caged birds out to the park every day and hang them up so that they can "talk" to each other. Or how about a teapot?

    Lynn Hardy

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  134. love the colors of the paper collection. How about making a half circle shaped holder about 1.5 inches thick that stands upright on the flat side. Decorate that to look like a fan.
    Then Divide the inside of the holder into three sections - each holding a mini album. those albums would be shaped like 1/6th of a pie. the pages could fan out or unfold in a tryptic style.
    Or they could be arced pieces that tie together to be something that could hang for a christmas decoration.
    it is hard to explain without pictures but hopefully it will spark an idea for you
    P.S. I Love paper cutters : )

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  135. what a generous giveaway Jim. How about a musical jewellery box in the shape of a chinese building with that intricate decorated roof as a lid. The music could be birds singing with a little rotating bird something like those little ballerinas on girls' jewellery boxes

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  136. I already offered my suggestion earlier, but sending you the cookie recipe last night got me to thinking of food and that got me to thinking of your blog contest and the gorgeous Japanese inspired collection Birdsong and then BAM....I thought of Bento Boxes...you could do a set of Birdsong Bento Boxes...afterall you are the master of boxes! Aren't you glad you don't live in my mind...LOL!!

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  137. OK so this might be long sorry in advance. Ok so when I was a kid I saw a traditional Japanese dance with my Grandma. In the dance they were dressed up in a kimono and used fans to show emotions and they moved and danced throughout the floor. When I get my stack I will make a cardboard "foosball table" I put it into quotes as it will be like it but not so much. So my intention it to make a stage with a tree like a cherry blossom, some rocks and a look-a-like waterfall, stream thing. I will fussy cut the lady in the red kimono and the big one on the collage page. I will have one on a rod with handle on one side and the other on another rod of the right. So when you move them they will move left to right like they are in a dance...like a "foosball table." under the stage there will be a flap that when down it looks just like a front of a stage, but once open it would reveal a mini album. The mini album will be in a shape of a fan. I will use my score board to create creased so when they are folded they will look like a fan. I love this paper soooooo much and will order a couple of sets and do other things but this is what I have so far. Hope that helps..if you need more info let me know and I will share :)

    Thanks for the opportunity to win this trimmer...it is on my wish list for the year. We will see if I can scratch it off my list in a couple of days. Thanks for everything you to and keep them coming.

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  139. LOL, Jim I have been thinking about this for days. Still incorporating the 5 elements, wind, water, earth, fire and metal. How about a bonsai tree and little temple in a dish garden? I know you could make a home decor piece like this to die for. So excited to see what you come up with. Still have that lighthouse in my dreams and hope to one day make it soon. Thanks for all you do!!!!

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  140. Hi Jim,

    Thank you for this opportunity. I love all your projects. What to choose for a project idea, it would be a man or woman's amulet box that are kept with a scroll or a blessing in it. My niece has spent 6 months there and was blessed with a scroll. It was beautifull and I think it fits this paper perfect.

    Thanks again,

    Eve
    aka
    spike

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  141. HI Jim , luv all your projects, your so inspiring! My suggestion is a pagoda palace, with hanging lanterns on the turrets, a japenese garden surrounding a koi pond, lol sounds more like a challenge, but i'm sure you have great imagination for this project. Thx for a chance to win that awesome cutter.

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  142. O.k. Jim, this may sound weird but I would like to see you build a Japanese samurai warrior with an opening in his big belly. You could fill it with mini warriors or a mini book. His hair/head could also open up and be filled with swords and nunchucks etc. Good Luck whatever you make will be fabulous.
    Artsychik Jeanne

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  143. Hi Jim!
    I really love this beautiful paper from Graphic 45 and anthing you make with it would be an inspiration. My suggestion would be an Asian inspired side cabinet with a bonsai on top. Thanks for a chance to win.

    Joanne T

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  144. I had one more thought.... 2 large koi fish posed in the shape of Yin and Yang. You could lift the top half of the fish off to reveal either a diorama in the fish belly, or an album of some sort.

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  145. Really love the Bird Sing papers, makes me think of Pagodas, Kimonos, Bento Boxes and Sushi. I would love to see a Japanese Dragon in these papers. You could makes different sized boxes to make sections of the Dragon, joining them together with brads to make it flexible and fluid. If you put this on chopsticks it would also make a great childs toy.

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  147. Lol, just seen your later posts, guess I'm a bit late with Dragon idea! Can't wait to see what you make.

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