If you participated in Traci’s FREE Intro to Hybrid class you have lots of great information on getting started. I’m not a newbie but still learned a lot from her class. One thing I like to do to “step-up” my hybrid pages is to add additional texture and interest to your projects.

I am using Traci’s Cider Season to help start working on a Gratitude Tag Album that I will use for some of my fall pictures. I love to create mini albums for the “ber” months (especially October and December!) so I wanted to get a head start!

I started with a basic tag shape approx. 5” x 7” and created 4 tags with different techniques to add texture.

First I added ribbon with a staple (Tim Holtz tiny Attacher), I popped up several elements, added a paper flower (which was very dimensional and will be the cover of the album!) I added an embroidery floss bow to the button and inked the edge of the pumpkin flair. Inking the edges of elements can real add the realism of your elements.

Second, I took the tag and ran it thru my die cut machine with an embossing folder. I took a blending brush with brown ink (Stampin’ Up Early Espresso) to highlight the wood grain even more. I also added some sparkly enamel dots too – another way to add texture!

Finally, I did tags with sewing machine stitching on them. I got a new sewing machine for my birthday and I am obsessed! I used some orange thread on each – one I outlined, and one I followed the plaid pattern and added several horizontal stitching lines. I also added a tab which was stapled. I left long tails on my sewing which also adds interest.

These tags also have ribbon (where I trimmed one edge and pulled the edge to unravel just one side), paper flowers with an enamel dot center and even more embellishments popped on foam!

As the season goes along, I’ll add the photos and some additional embellishments. I will also punch a hole at the top, use a metal ring and add ribbons and maybe even a dangle! I hope this gives you some ideas for your hybrid projects