Top 13 Blog Posts of 2013 + Giveaway

Top Blog Posts of 2013

As the end of 2013 draws near, we want to take a moment to revisit our top 13 most popular blog posts. From new project ideas and trendy craft techniques to special guest artists and bloggers, discover reading content you’ll absolutely adore!

 

Top 13 Blog Posts of 2013:

 1.  Spring Fling: A Double Dose of Lavender

2.  Artist Insights: Remarkable New Art Journaling Tips from Teesha Moore

3.  Love at First Sight: Glimpse Inside Blossoming February Issues + Win Your Favorite

4.  A Field Guide to NOW: Featured Artist Christina Rosalie

5.  Top 9 Innovative Stamped Project Ideas + Save 15% Off!

6.  Do-It-Yourself: Art Journal Inspiration

7.  Aim for Pretty Not Perfection: Printers Tray Project

8.  Creative Cards in 10 Minutes or Less!

9.  Dumpster Diving 101 with Debi Beard

10. Pin to Win Contest: Top 9 Pinterest Picks

11. Cultivate Your Creative Muse: Tips to Infuse Wonder into your Workspace

12. Guest Artist: Mindy Lacefield’s Art Journaling Magic

13.  Simple 6 Step DIY: Crafty Mixed-Media Envelope Book

 

To thank our loyal readers for following along with us this past year, we want to offer a chance to win a gift that’ll help you enter 2014 with creativity on your side.

 

Win a Gift Certificate to The Shoppe

Leave a comment below, explaining which blog post(s) inspired, intrigued, or impressed you the most from our past year at Somerset Place for your chance to win one of four $25 gift certificates to use at The Shoppe at Somerset.

 

*Each winner will be selected at random and contacted by email on or before January 31, 2014.

 

Thank you for your continued readership, and we look forward to bringing you even more inspiration in 2014 and beyond!

Blog Writer


Posted: Thursday, December 19th, 2013 @ 8:00 am
Categories: Artwork Submissions, Contests and Giveaways, How-To Project Tutorials.
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116 Responses to “Top 13 Blog Posts of 2013 + Giveaway”

  1. Bellen says:

    My choice is Do It Yourself: Art Journal Inspiration. I’ve always wanted to do an art journal but didn’t quite know where to start. This gives me the place and direction to be myself thru art and word.

  2. I would have to say I loved the first one the most-Lavender-I love anything lavender and found this post very inspiring for me

  3. Anne D says:

    I liked #11 the best – there can never be too much wonder in my world.

  4. #5 … I was so impressed with the idea of making your own stamps using wine corks!

  5. Roxanne says:

    #13! I love the mixed media envelope book! I made something similar for my son this Christmas. I like to tuck in special photos from when he was a young boy and also little memento’s that will make him smile…also a few postage stamps-snail mail can be such fun! Love the use of materials in this post…definitely going to use in my next ‘envelope book’!
    Thank you for sharing!

  6. Christine says:

    I liked/loved #12…we all need a little magic sometimes….and the tips were great!

  7. margie says:

    No. 5 gave me lots of tips.

  8. Linda Beckert says:

    I love Teesha Moore! Also love the mixed media envelope book, like I’m suppose to pick just one. They all inspire in a different way!

  9. Deb Brown says:

    Teesha Moore best, just because I love her work, but also liked the cork stamps, envelope book and…

  10. Corinne Vivian says:

    I love the second one Teesa Moore

  11. Kim McM says:

    The posts that inspired me the most? Dumpster Diving 101, and its corollary, Aim for Pretty, Not Perfection. I love stuff! And need help finding ways to organize it.

  12. Kelly Paquet says:

    1. Spring Fling : A Double Dose of Lavender inspired me most. I love the romance of lavender and its usefulness and wonderful, relaxing scent. I visited some lavender farms in Sequim, WA, and surrounding areas – gorgeous!

  13. sherry butcher says:

    Art Jounal, love the tips and pictures for she did it.

  14. Teesha Moore inspires me daily and this blog post was no different :)

  15. Heather St. Marie says:

    Teesha Moore’s advice on being fearless in article #2 is something I have to keep in mind as I’m creating… It’s going to be my mantra in 2014!

    “The best advice I think would be to never get attached to your artwork. The minute you do, you might freeze and quit exploring the “what ifs,” and it’s that wild abandon that makes journaling so much fun.”

  16. Julie Burger says:

    Teesha Moore has been one of my favorite artist for a long time and I get excited anytime I see an article, a technique, or a video that Teesha is involved in. I’m a real fan! Have been since the first time I found her art and will always be. Thank you, Teesha, for all of the inspiration! <3

  17. Becky J says:

    I needed to hear the encouragement from “Aim for Pretty Not Perfection: Printers Tray Project” as I need to be more organized, but sometimes get hung up on the farce of perfection!!

  18. heather elizabeth says:

    #6 Is my favorite, though so hard to choose!

  19. Sallie RODMAN says:

    I loved the mixed media envelope book. It inspired me to ake one for my sis in law for her bday. More please!

  20. Denise Bryant says:

    I loved Creative Cards in 10 Minutes or Less! Great ideas!

  21. Lisa M says:

    I adored the interview with Tracy Porter; she is such an inspiration!

  22. Jane P says:

    My fav is 4. A Field Guide to NOW: Featured Artist Christina Rosalie. She really spoke to me as I am building my photojournalism business.

  23. Laura Strack says:

    So many great Blog Post from Somerset Place. I love #7 The Printers Tray because it was just so pretty but also very practical. However, my favorite post was #9 Dumpster Diving 101 with Debi Beard. That girl is so talented. She can take an ugly item headed for the trash and turn it into something very special. Her persona is funny as it gets, too! Love that Chica!!

  24. HawaiianLibrarian says:

    Blog Hop: Mixed-Media with Guest Artist Pam Carriker’s New Stamp Designs

    Posted: 29 Aug 2013 09:23 AM PDT

    was my favorite b/c I learned such great techniques.

  25. Lin says:

    My favorite was #7: Aim for Pretty Not Perfection: Printers Tray Project. I pinned this one to Pinterest when it came out. I loved this post because I am always looking for creative ways to organize and store my craft supplies, and this idea is gorgeous!
    I’m off to check out #9… thanks for all the inspiration you share!!!
    Lin

  26. Kristin Townsend says:

    I am a huge fan of all the magaizines, they are the best tools on the planet:) I love the one on the printers tray, I have quiet a few and loved the idea of doing something different with it. But really can you choose just one, I think not!

  27. I have to go with the creative cards in10 minutes or less. I’m all about super easy and quick (not to mention adorable) cards!

  28. Beth Byrd says:

    I’d definitely have to say #5 — Top 9 Innovative Stamped Projects and Ideas. I’m a papercrafter and stamper and always looking for inspiration! These ideas were terrific!

  29. dee says:

    Top 9 Innovative Stamped Project Ideas + Save 15% Off! love love love the cork idea!!

  30. Cathy C says:

    I like this post itself b/c I’ve only recently added your blog to my RSS feed. So it’s nice to see what other posts have been popular this year.

  31. Kathleen Renee says:

    Lavender, always lavender!

  32. Stacy says:

    My favorite has to be “Artist Insights: Remarkable New Art Journaling Tips from Teesha Moore” because Ms Moore’s artwork has always been so inspiring to me. I love the colors and whimsy she infuses into her projects.

  33. I love the journaling posts I am just starting to journal and find them all such an inspirations

  34. Randi S says:

    I really liked watching the video on #12. It gives me encouragement to see pieces evolve. They don’t always end up the way they start.

  35. Ariane Cagle says:

    I enjoyed the posts on:

    1. Printers tray project – love the washi tape idea. I have some printers trays I want to use to display artsey items.

    2. Dumpster Diving 101 – She has some very creative ideas.

    3. Infusing wonder into the workplace – Who doesn’t need that at times?

  36. Cydne wright says:

    What inspired me most what #7, the printers tray project, because I needed the message that came along with it. Creativity & organization are not about perfection, they are about inspiration and efficiency. “Pretty” is good enough!
    Thank you for reminding me of this at a much needed time.

  37. Marilyn K. says:

    Thanks for the contest. My fav would have to be Do-It-Yourself: Art Journal Inspiration by Dyan. I really like her work,her energy and her instruction.

  38. Laura says:

    My choice is the Field Guide to Now.

    When she talked about how she began her journey, made her plans but as she followed her path her life was changing and the original plan had to be altered and adjusted, it spoke to me.

  39. Kim B says:

    I love the mixed media envelope book. Stampington always provides me with tons of inspiration.

  40. Number 2, Artist Insights by Teesha Moore is my favorite. Teesha has been an inspiration to me ever since I first found her art. I have started a journal and although it leaves a lot to be desired, I will continue on with Teesha’s thoughts on my shoulder!

  41. Faith says:

    So much fantastic inspiration, thanks!
    I choose 1, 2, 8, 11 & 12 as favourites that I have taken the most from; but all were great!

  42. Dena says:

    Really, you want us to choose a favorite! LOL I’ve never read a blog posted here that wasn’t an inspiration in one way or another. There are always great tips and ideas that can be applied in many ways in mixed media. I love this magazine.

  43. Nicole Maki says:

    I remember the creative cards in 10 minutes or less post very vividly. The cards were gorgeous and so impressive.

  44. I’d have to go with #11. She gave some great ideas that would be easy for anyone to incorporate into their creative space.

  45. Sue Young says:

    My fave is the one by Teesha Moore. She and her work always rev me up to use juicier colors. Her innovative approach to art journaling is so much fun!

  46. Carol A Spadea says:

    Oh my Gosh… I cannot honestly say what one is my favorite. My goal for the new year is to try each and every one of them.

  47. I liked the Do it Yourself: Art Journaling entry. I particularly liked the inspiration prompts to kick start some journaling ideas.

  48. Bonnie says:

    I loved the tips to infuse wonder. That’s how my mine works and love new and differetn ideas:)

  49. Shannon Chomanczuk says:

    #7 i remember this blog post well because I have several printers trays and I showed my husband what could be done with them.

  50. Erin Glee says:

    As a trash picker and “Garbage Day” sidewalk snatcher, I loved “Dumpster Diving 101 with Debi Beard”. She is fun and makes silly & informative videos on upcycling…DIY trash to treasure…my kinda’ girl!
    Happy Holidays and thanks for the chance to win!

  51. Kathy says:

    The art jounaling tips about lettering by teesha moore was very inspiring…have never liked my own writing but am encouraged to try her tips!

  52. Dolores says:

    I love Mindy Lacefields work and I like doing art journaling so that was my favorite although several of the others were interesting also.

  53. Pam Hemmerling says:

    I loved #12 Mindy Lacefield’s Art Journaling Magic. I am new to art journaling and found it not only informative but inspiring as well.

  54. Dumpster Diving is a favorite although there are never “trash pick ups” where I live.

  55. Kathy Bumb says:

    I love the DIY Crafty mixed media envelope book. I love creating altered art book using all varieties of mixed media supplies. This seemed simple to create, yet delightful to view.

  56. Deb says:

    Spring Fling: A Double Dose of Lavender.

    I enjoy the smell and color of lavender and so appreciated all the ideas for how to use this lovely plant.

  57. MelodyJ says:

    I like Swing Dress Stamped Card. It sparked ideas for my art journal.

  58. Becky Green says:

    I REMEMBER WHEN this article came out—#11) AND I HAD TO READ IT!!! I wanted to see HOW others created a space of WONDER! I TRY! From a cup of Tea to sip as I work, to furniture with wood grain, so I can enjoy the richness of the wood! From a crystal looking dish I use when water coloring to the Tiffany style desk lamp on my desk! AND I can’t forget the window next to my desk that I can peer out of & see the countryside & just soak in the beauty in every season it gives!!! My space is SMALL but, I DO TRY to create WONDER in my little corner! Enjoying EVERY MOMENT there–creating something of Wonder for those I love!

  59. Char says:

    I really liked Creative Cards in 10 Minutes or Less. It can take so long to make a card, but these ideas make the job manageable AND enjoyable with the flexibility of design using the same materials. I appreciate them writing “Keep it simple or add more.”

  60. Jackie says:

    Even though I loved every blog post mentioned, I have to say #7 would be the one that inspired me the most! I say that because right after reading it I immediately reorganized my trinkets in two printers drawers that I had been saving for years!!

  61. Ruth adam says:

    I was inspired by #11 to cultivate my creative muse and creatively recreate my studio and include things I enjoy and inspire me especially everything vintage.

  62. Nancy says:

    I love number 7. Each little box is a work of art!

  63. Ellette says:

    It would have to be number 1 as I am in love with lavender! Can’t get enough of it and I loved all the great ideas on how to further use it. Thank you!

  64. Katherine says:

    It was a tough choice between #s 2 and 12. I LOVE Teesha from her scrapbooking days and have followed her as she has grown creatively. (Not in a creepy way!) But then, a new fave of mine is Mindy Lacefield. I love her style. We are pretty different in the colors/styles we choose – so it’s fun to see what her brain is creating. I love ALL the posts, tho. How can you not?!

  65. Miranda says:

    I like this post: Aim for Pretty Not Perfection: Printers Tray Project.

    I have lots of little items that need organizing.

  66. kat says:

    I love lavender, so, of course, my favorite post is the one about lavender. I have grown it in the past, and hope to have its blossoms once again with which to craft endless numbers of things, and to have some just to enjoy its heavenly smell.

  67. The mixed media envelope book is a wonderful project I really love the ideas and the tutorial. I hope Santa gives me the gift certificate so that I can get some supplies to make one

  68. Carole Horan says:

    I enjoyed the 6 step book ~~ I have been working on making books lately.

  69. Terry says:

    I loved #12 and watching the process of how the journal pages developed and came together with such a magical richness. Very inspiring!

  70. Becky Burton says:

    I like #7 Aim for pretty not perfection. I have an old drawer that I’ve been wanting to paint and store my little embellishments in and her article gave me inspiration to get it started. I never thought about using washi tape to decorate it. Great idea!!!

  71. Suzanne Goding says:

    Thank you for reminding me of that wonderful & original (as always) Teesha Moore piece..so inspirational!

  72. Barbara Warner says:

    I love #4 “A Field Guide to Now”…wonderful ideas to celebrate the moment you are in. Ideas to “Be Present”

  73. Kim Stelly says:

    The Printer’s Tray project inspired all kinds of ideas in me – I am a “jewelry hobbyist” and printer’ strays are a very popular prop for showcasing finished pieces, but I hadn’t considered using them for organization of supplies as well! I immediately hit Etsy and purchased some “blank canvas” trays to start putting together my own!

  74. robin says:

    The art journaling with Teesha Moore. i love her quirky, whimsical style and I love making her little “poptarts”/pillows!!!

  75. autumn grace says:

    #1 LAVENDER ANYTHING WITH LAVENDER IS ALWAYS A WIN -WIN FOR ME ….TY

  76. Julie Burger says:

    My favorite is #2: Artist Insights-Remarkable New Journaling Tips from Teesha Moore. Teesha has been a long time favorite artist of mine and I can’t seem to get enough of her artistry techniques. Being new to Art Journaling, I find her style inspiring.

  77. Margriet says:

    The stamped project ideas are my true favourites .I had another look at all the projects and they inspired me again. Thank you.

  78. Darlene says:

    Loved all the creative ideas. My top vote goes to Teesha’s journaling tips. Love her art journals!

  79. April Lopez says:

    Mindy Lacefields was the one that stood out for me. I like that she gives easy ideas on how to keep moving in journaling. Easy ideas.

  80. Sheila says:

    Its gotta be th dumpster diving for me. I always have my eye open for interesting stuff and its inspiring to see how others trnasform things. I would LOVE to find some fishing floats like Debi did!!

  81. I adored “Cultivate Your Creative Muse: Tips to Infuse Wonder into your Workspace”.

    I fully believe in Synchronicity, so this article spoke volumes to me!

    Hope you are all having a wonderful Holiday Season.

  82. Laura Taylor says:

    Love the 10 min cards. Thanks for the repost!

  83. Tanya says:

    I enjoy New Art Journaling Tips from Teesha Moore. I love to journal and always look for new tips.

  84. Maureen Hayes says:

    I am going to have to choose two from the above list because I cannot decided between them! The first is #7, which I loved because the message about organizing without perfection is one I needed to hear and learn and I simply swooned over that printer’s tray! It is a fabulous idea I will be stealing for my own craft room soon.

    The second is #9 Dumpster Diving with Debi Beard. First of all, it introduced me to Debi, which made my life infinitely happier! Secondly, it made me look at the idea of repurposing completely differently and has caused me to really increase the amount of it I do, not only in my art, but in my life in general.

    Thanks Stampington, for your great articles throughout the year with always inspire me. It is so nice to still magazines like yours out there, beautiful, inspiring and chock full of great information, not to mention the gorgeous photos. I look forward to seeing what you have in store for us in 2014! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of you at Stampington as well as to all my fellow readers.

  85. The Field Guide to Now. As the new year approaches and I weigh the direction in which I want to take my art and writing, I was inspired to leave the what ifs in the wings of 2013 and step into January 1, 2014 alone. I don’t need to step into an entire year. More than anything, I need to step into and wholly embrace the first day. The second day will come with its own unique gifts.

  86. Cheryl Johnson says:

    Teesha’s journaling techniques were an inspiration for me. Good luck to all of us,,who have entered to win the nice $25.00 gift, and Happy Holidays to all.

  87. shirley johnson says:

    Spring Fling: a Double Dose of Lavender immediately took me back to my vacation memories in the south of France! So that wins for me, although your Creative Cards in 10 minutes was very inspirational and useful as well. Thanks for the chance to win a gift certificate!

  88. Shelley Bezona says:

    #1….As a woman who surrounds herself with an abundance of lavender I can really relate to this article to this blog.

  89. Carla Bange says:

    I like #9 – I think finding alternate uses for what would otherwise be trash is an elemental part of my art. I love looking at things with alternate uses in mind, re-loving the things I collect.

  90. Mary Bridges says:

    I found something useful in every post, but my favs are DIY Art Journaling and Mindy Lacefield’s Art Journal Magic…DIY gives you a place to start while Journal Magic keeps you inspired through the process! Thank you for all the inspiration and education! I am a fan forever!

  91. Emily Barker says:

    Loved the Pin to Win category (#10) and Chalk it Up. So many great ideas on all these posts tho!

  92. Michelle B. says:

    My favorite posts would be a tie between the lavender one, because of the sheer serenity of the photos, and, in quite a contrast, the dumpster diving one (!), as the ideas are ingenious and beautiful, and they contribute to helping declutter our earth.

  93. Suzze Tiernan says:

    Creative Cards in 10 Minutes or Less – I am always looking for quick last minute card ideas.

  94. Carol Kreger says:

    Enjoyed the mixed medium envelope book – creative way to use extra envelopes in a fun journal.

  95. Linda Hopkins says:

    I Loved the “Cards in 10 minutes or Less” it reminded me thatI do have time to make cards. Thanks :)

  96. Jodi says:

    I loved the article on Dumpster diving! I have been a diver since I was about 10 yrs old. Now, I’m MUCH older & still doing it. I also liked artist insights & DIY Art Journal. Thanks for being such a great resource!

  97. HollyW in NC says:

    I love all your posts, too hard to choose just one!

  98. Debra Gibson says:

    Cultivate Your Creative Muse: Tips to infuse Wonder into your work place I pick this one as I enjoy having my work area surrounded by all things artsy! It was hard to choose just one ! Thanks for the chance to win !Merry Christmas !

  99. Annie P says:

    Somerset Place is my go to when that wicked little thing called “crafters block” appears. Just a peek a I feel creative again. Thank-you

  100. MK Audd says:

    Art Journal Inspiration was my favorite! Happy New Year!

  101. #2 Remarkable art journaling tips from Teesha Moore, intrigued me the most. I appreciate her advice on not becoming so attached to my artwork that it begins to stifle the creative flow process. These publications and blog posts are such an inspiration! Keep up the awesome work!

  102. Roberta says:

    My first love will always be cardmaking, so I enjoyed the Top 9 Innovative Stamp projects. But… I was also so inspired by Teesha Moore’s journaling article. Actually, I found something to enjoy and inspire in all the posts!

  103. Carla Hundley says:

    Great ideas and
    creations here.
    I liked the
    Simple 6 Step
    DIY: Crafty
    Mixed-Media
    Envelope Book.
    Quite pretty
    treasure holder!
    Carla from Utah

  104. Alicia says:

    I really like the creative cards in 10 minutes post — any project that gives me permission to be messy and not perfect is good by me

  105. jan m says:

    #8, the beautiful, fresh color palette is inspiring, and a card in 10 minutes or less is perfection!

  106. Carol says:

    I have made a resolution to try a new creative endevour for 2014 so I found the Inspiration blog #6 very motivating. I hope I win, it’ll get me a jump on supplies for this new venture.

  107. I enjoyed #9 the most. There’s just something about Debi Beard’s style and techniques that just inspires me in a unique new way. Thank you for pointing her out, I’ve been following her now because of reading about her and then viewing her YouTube from your blog.

  108. Carole Gernett says:

    I enjoyed The Field Guide to Now. I can relate to the juggling of children and art and day to day job
    responsibilities.

    My daughter is now 18 and I have been lucky enough to have much needed ‘creative time’ in the past few years. I have reached many of my goals and grown as an artist, mother and wife.

  109. Sharon Gullikson says:

    This one inspired me the most because you used innovative ways to stamp. I haven’t ever thought of these ways before Top 9 Innovative Stamped Project Ideas + Save 15% Off!

  110. Patricia says:

    Artist Insights: Remarkable New Art Journaling Tips from Teesha Moore

    Love Teesha’s journaling style and always fascinated lettering. I know we are supposed to embrace our own handwriting when we journal, but it’s fun to play too!

  111. Pam says:

    A Field Guide to NOW: Featured Artist Christina Rosalie…very inspiring and motivating!!

  112. Barbara Hernandez says:

    #2. Love the tips from Teesha Moore. Love her video and teaching style.

  113. Kathy S says:

    loved all the reuse/repurpose ideas on the dumpster diving blog entry so many great ideas and so much fun to help decrease our footprint on this marvelous earth.

  114. Gerri says:

    What a darling array of creative posts! I will definitely try to attempt to try a part of each one. Thank you for the chance to win.

  115. Candy T says:

    Hands down: the Envelope Book! I have granddaughters who live in another state and this will make a great Easter Vacation gift for them. Girls are always squirreling things away, like movie ticket stubs and Chinese coookie fortunes; this will keep their tiny treasures all in one place. <3 Stampington~~~

  116. BuffyVS says:

    I have a tab on my browser that is permanently pointed to Teesha Moore’s website. The vibrancy of her palette and the inspiration of her drawings help me expand my ‘boundaries’. She really inspires me!

Jordan Artwork SubmissionsContests and GiveawaysHow-To Project Tutorials ,,,,,,,,,,,,

Top Blog Posts of 2013

As the end of 2013 draws near, we want to take a moment to revisit our top 13 most popular blog posts. From new project ideas and trendy craft techniques to special guest artists and bloggers, discover reading content you’ll absolutely adore!

 

Top 13 Blog Posts of 2013:

 1.  Spring Fling: A Double Dose of Lavender

2.  Artist Insights: Remarkable New Art Journaling Tips from Teesha Moore

3.  Love at First Sight: Glimpse Inside Blossoming February Issues + Win Your Favorite

4.  A Field Guide to NOW: Featured Artist Christina Rosalie

5.  Top 9 Innovative Stamped Project Ideas + Save 15% Off!

6.  Do-It-Yourself: Art Journal Inspiration

7.  Aim for Pretty Not Perfection: Printers Tray Project

8.  Creative Cards in 10 Minutes or Less!

9.  Dumpster Diving 101 with Debi Beard

10. Pin to Win Contest: Top 9 Pinterest Picks

11. Cultivate Your Creative Muse: Tips to Infuse Wonder into your Workspace

12. Guest Artist: Mindy Lacefield’s Art Journaling Magic

13.  Simple 6 Step DIY: Crafty Mixed-Media Envelope Book

 

To thank our loyal readers for following along with us this past year, we want to offer a chance to win a gift that’ll help you enter 2014 with creativity on your side.

 

Win a Gift Certificate to The Shoppe

Leave a comment below, explaining which blog post(s) inspired, intrigued, or impressed you the most from our past year at Somerset Place for your chance to win one of four $25 gift certificates to use at The Shoppe at Somerset.

 

*Each winner will be selected at random and contacted by email on or before January 31, 2014.

 

Thank you for your continued readership, and we look forward to bringing you even more inspiration in 2014 and beyond!

Blog Writer