CQ: ENCOURAGING TAG FOR SEPTEMBER - INT

September is clearly back-to-school and, for those lucky enough to have four real seasons where they live, it can be a hint of fall colors to be in full splendor in October. For this swap, you may work with either theme since some of us have children and grandchildren in school and some of us do not. You may combine the themes or choose one only. That's up to you although if your partner has children in school,she may like a back-to-school tag, so do check your partner's profile for that information and to be aware of her likes and dislikes. Our tags should be a combination of our styles and our partner's preferences. In October, for example, I do not want a ghoulish Halloween tag; in fact, I can skip Halloween altogether except I enjoy the little ones at my door in cute, creative costumes.

Add an encouraging word or phrase for your partner's tag--check profile for any specific struggles she may be facing, or use anything that boosts morale, creativity, imagination, curiosity, or courage to try something new, or the ability to see a failure as a learning and creative opportunity, etc.Most of all HAVE FUN making your tag!

Make a #8 size tag ["6.25 x 3.25" or "15,8 x 7,9 cm] in Tim Holtz vintage/shabby chic/ beautiful style--check out his web site and others such as Theresa Collins' or 7 Gyspsies for inspiration. Also check out the Flickr sites for members of our group--they have some awesome creations!

Add a few (2-4) fun surprises based on your partner's profile and send your tag and surprises by the deadline.

Remember that we are Crafting Queens---we make everything to the best of our abilities and send items we are proud to put our names on. Create a tag you'd be proud to show to Tim Holtz! A messy tag, poorly stamped images, or shabby imitation with sticker slapping, childish drawings, mismatched ephemera, etc. are not our kind of work.

Past experience shows that so far this has not been a problem. If you do receives a tag like that, please let me know. I cannot angel for this swap as I plan on right knee replacement surgery by Sept.3, but am certain I will not need to do so!

Most of all--HAVE FUN please DO check your partner's profile for color, style, likes, and dislikes to help you create the "just perfect" tag for that partner.

If you have questions or problems, PLEASE PM or email me so I can help you resolve the problem.