Hello everyone . . . so wonderful to see you here again on the simply fabulous CricutFANatics Blog! It's Melody(aka as kauaimelody on the cricut boards, and CricutMelody on my blog) and as always, I can not wait to share my super fun project with you today. It is all about mouse traps and a share to show how I used them to embellish an Asian Frame. It is meant to inspire you to try something different. One word of caution, the mouse trap can snap you if you are not awake or vigilent. But that is what makes it so exciting, it's crafting on the edge, and being a crafting ninja, I love a little challenge. Seriously, I have not gotten nipped once, so jump right in and be the fearless crafter that I know you can be. It is a great little project that can be used in a myriad of ways (as wall decor, stationary, note holder, or anything you can think of). It is so simple and unique.
One mouse trap was used as a three dimensional base for the blinged up key. It was stripped of all it's hardware and covered in designer paper. The key was adhered to the mouse trap with two part Epoxy.
The second mouse trap is holding the stamp, and adds a little unexpected pizazz to the overall design of the Altered Frame . The pics show close ups of the top and bottom. (Don't look too close, I don't want you to see any glue mishaps).
I placed the base mousetrap at the base of the Altered Frame.
And here is the full view of the Asian Altered Frame, adorned with the two mouse traps. The Expression2 was used to cut out the pagoda from The Pagoda Cartridge.
Have you ever altered a mouse trap before, or taken one apart, all the way or partially? Well here is a brief description so you know where to start, and hopefully you will jump on the Mouse Trap Band Wagon and try one or more yourself. It gives you one more skill set for your crafty bag of tricks and techniques. REMEMBER TO HOP OVER TO YOU TUBE TO CHECK OUT THE VIDEOS. (Preparing the mouse trap to alter is as simple as removing staples!!!)
I like to use an ATG gun on the paper and then press into place on the trap. I remove the staples with small plyers. This is where watching a youtube is especially helpful.You can find the technique that most appeals to you. Have fun and add embellies, or leave as is, if you are a minimalist. You can ommit the paper, and just paint it, distress it, bling it, twine it, stickle and glitter it,write on it, or ??? This is where you can really express yourself and add your personal touch.
I love the fact that you can use the '"snapper" as a holder for sentiments,photos, momentos etc. I am mindful that the snapper could display my fingers as well, so I do count them frequently to make sure they are all there while creating - just kidding!!
You know you want to try this. :)
Joyful Crafting Always,
Melody
Designer: Melody
Project: Mouse Traps/Asian Altered Frame
Machine: Expression2
Cartridge: Pagoda
Materials: Mouse Traps, Frame, Designer Paper
Tools: ATG Gun, plyers, Embellishments of Choice
