The designs in this collection have been prepared in three forms:

1. PDF - these are ready to print files that will open in Adobe Acrobat Reader -(a free program available for download from Adobe.com). Special Projects are in this format.
2. PNG files. These have transparent backgrounds and can be inserted into any program that allows images. The transparent backgrounds allow you to layer images on top of one another.
3. JPG image files. These can be inserted into any document for any software program that allows images to be included. They are compatible with most software programs such as Microsoft Word, WordPerfect, Publisher, PrintShop, etc. They are designed to be printed in color.

You can drag and drop or copy and paste the images from your browser into a document, or use your software program instructions for inserting the PNG and JPG images. Adjust the size and arrange them on the page as desired. The images are at a high resolution and can be sized smaller to fit more on a page or larger, according to your needs.

To overlay text on top of an image, refer to your software program instructions for text wrap or image layout. Often there is an option to place the image "behind text." When the image is dark or bright, you may want to use a white text color so it is easier to read. On the subdued images, black text is easiest to read.

You can print the PNG and JPG images from a graphics program or an internet browser - please use "print preview" to be sure that the image is the size you want. Most programs have a way to reduce or enlarge the size of the image before printing.

Paper Selection

You can print on white paper, or on white cardstock, or on photo paper, depending on the desired result. Bookmarks, cards, gift tags and boxes should be printed on cardstock. Envelopes may be best on regular paper. You may want to print on vellum or print on cardstock and overlay with a sheet of vellum and paper punch holes in each and attach with a ribbon. Using a colored/textured/patterned paper can change the coloring of the photos and give an undesireable effect. But layering the print outs with other decorative paper can be a lovely way to add impact to your handout.

Print Quality

For best results, set your print quality to the highest setting.

Be Creative

Use your imagination to create different kinds of memorable handouts! We will include some creative projects, but you are only limited by your imagination when it comes to what is possible! Here are some ideas:

• Calendars - add the images to your planning calendars
• Gift tags you can attach to an object with a ribbon
• Candy Wrappers you cover a store purchased candy bar
• Jar/Can labels you add to a glass jar or tin can
• Stickers you print on sticker paper
• Transparencies you print on transparency film
• T-shirts - remember to reverse the image when you print on iron-on transfer paper that you apply to fabric.
• Decoupage - print on paper and cut out and apply to an object such as a wooden plaque with ModPodge fixative.

Here are some links to websites with fun ideas.

• Handmade boxes
• Valentines Box pattern
• Envelope pattern
• Envelope pattern
• Handled Bag pattern
• Five years worth of monthly paper projects
• Polygon Pop-up Card and Envelope instructions/pattern
• Newsletter with several paper project instructions