Thursday, January 21, 2010

Paper crafting on a budget AND how to get FREEBIE IMAGES!

Hello!  As you already know this hobby is pretty darn hard on the old pocket book!  It is so easy to get caught up in all of the new releases and the feeling that you GOTTA have it ALL!  I know I am struggling to save my pennies right now with all of the new CHA releases coming out.
My husband lost his job back in June and was without a job for 5 months.  Luckily, I was able to pick up the slack at work, but we still had to watch our "frivolous" purchases.  I used several freebie digi Christmas images on my cards this year.  I know that "digi" stamps or images are controversial in the paper craft world, but there are soooooo many companies out there that give them away on a weekly basis for FREE.  I have learned where to go to find them, so I thought I would let you in on it too.  Every free image is not something that I always am totally in love with, but I always take advantage of FREEBIES because I can delete them from my computer later!

Digi images are a little bit more time consuming then regular stamping, but fun!  You need to make sure you have a decent laser jet printer.  I have a lexmark x2470.  I have NEVER had an issue with the ink running and never have to wait for dry time.  I use both Copics and Prismas for my coloring, too.

Here is a list of current freebies.  Let me know if you like this or not or find this helpful.  If it is something a lot of people are interested in, I may try to do this on a weekly basis.

Stamps and Smiles Store-birdhouse image and sentiment

Paper Cupcakes- elephant Valentine image

Digital Delights (SNR)- catepillar image (must sign up or be a member of SNR to get this)-it's EASY and FREE!  They usually have a freebie Every Friday!!

Bee Crafty (SNR)-stack of books, word LOVE with birds, BD cake, and girl

Sweet N Sassy (SNR)-owl

Sweet N Sassy (SNR)- pie and sentiment

Digi Kitty-some snowmen, a halloween monster, and a mug with candy canes

squigglefly- several to choose from!

Dustin Pike -Every Wednesday he has a freebie!!!!

The Digi Shack- super cute owl

Pixie Dust Studio cute little girl with heart (they are also having a DT call! )

Mo's Digital Pencil -several super cute freebies!

my graphico- They have a WHOLE bunch of freebies!

Whimsie Doodles -a couple of cute little turtles and a bear (check PCP-often they will have freebies there, too!)

Phindy's Place-this link is to freebies in their group on PCP.  ADORABLE Easter rabbit and cute mouse image!

Soft Pencil  Valentine freebies!

Shirleys2girls- cute tea pot and sentiments

Bugaboo stamps-cute birthday image and sentiment about getting older!

Designed2Delight-scrumptious looking cupcake with cherry on top!

Sew Many Cards-Freebie every Friday!

Also keep in mind that companies like Verve and MFT will have digis for free.  You have to check their sites frequently because there is no rhyme or reason as to when they offer them!  Verve just offered a gorgeous free Valentine mini digi set last week, but now it is gone!

Well...I think that is enough to get you started!  If you know of or find any more freebies this week that I have missed add them in a comment and I will add them to this list!

Have fun!

Emily

6 comments:

Handmade Creations by Stephanie said...

Great post Emily and alot of great info. I have to say I am loving digital more nad more everyday!!!

StampinCathy said...

Thanks for the info. I'm just getting into digi and it really helps on in the piggy back. Thanks for all the places to look. You Rock!

Dawn B. said...

This is a wonderful post Emily.. Whimsie Doodles also has a free image over on PCP.. I have to say that I have gone back and forth about this subject myself. HOWEVER...this is my conclusion. If I am understanding the process right all stamps start as a digi image. Some stay a digi and others are put into rubber..So there you have it..LOL. I think with the way the economy is we all have to think "smart" stamping. Digi is so much cheaper and instant gratification. No postage fees or waiting..I still love my rubber and all the companies that sell them.

My family has struggled with jobs too. I wish you all the best. It is tough. Hugs.

Jan Hunnicutt said...

Thanks so much for posting where to get the free goodies! I enjoy discovering where the digi stamps are, they take up so much less space in my craft room ;)

Mary said...

Great post. Thanks for the info Just to let you know there is also a freebie every Friday on the Sew Many Cards challenge blog.

hugs
Mary

Kim Marie said...

This list is phenomenal! Thanks so much...just getting into digi art and this helps make it less painful budget wise!
Great idea!
Kim Marie