See what I mean!? Yesterday’s announcement about our partnership with Amercian Crafts was so much fun, so well-received, and we are soooo thankful for your positive feedback and support! Like we said – that was just the beginning.
Any of you who already love Studio Calico are probably freaking out over today’s announcement of another partnership full of awesomeness. If you don’t happen to know about Studio Calico, I’ll gladly introduce you.
What is Studio Calico?
I’m going to let the ever-so-lovely brains behind Studio Calico explain in her own words. Go HERE and click on the little video icon in the bottom right corner. It’s less than 3 minutes long. That’s April Foster. She is awesome. April and I share such a similar passion for how we are running our respective businesses and how we are able to reach different scrapbookers. Which is why this collaboration is even more beautiful. She gets it. I get it. This is a match made in heaven, right?
When will we see the first Project Life kit from Studio Calico?
The first kit will ship the first week of January 2013.
What do the Project Life kits contain?
Each month the kit will include cards in a variety of sizes, a high-quality photopolymer stamp set, and many other embellishments such as decorative clips, washi tape, badges, stickers, die cuts – and much more. What’s fun is that each monthly kit is a compilation of designs and goodies from several different companies. Studio Calico is brilliant about bringing random stuff together perfectly. Everything will work beautifully with the Project Life pocket-based system.
How do I subscribe? What does it cost? How long does it last? Can I get it if I’m outside the U.S.?
There are inevitably so many great questions and I want you to feel well-informed. Studio Calico is going to be best at explaining all the nitty-gritty. More information is outlined HERE (and be sure to check out the Studio Calico blog too). If your questions are not answered there, you can contact Studio Calico HERE or email them at info@studiocalico.com.
How do I get on the waiting list?
Go HERE, my friend.
I love the simplicity of Project Life. Why would I want to add more “stuff”?
I designed Project Life to be a solution … a time-saver … a money-saver. My whole philosophy centers around the idea that you don’t need all the stuff in order to create beautiful scrapbooks. You don’t need to spend so much time on a layout. I still believe that with all my heart, and I continue to preach it to the world. ; )
But here’s the fun thing that I’ve noticed in my 3 years of doing this: The Project Life system appeals to all sorts of people. Absolutely this simple approach to memory-keeping appeals to those who need to keep it simple (they’re new to scrapbooking – or they’re overwhelmed – or they don’t have time – or they don’t feel creative – or they appreciate ultra-simple – or you name it). But we have noticed that Project Life also appeals to those who love to spend a little extra time on their scrapbooks.
We think that any way that you approach memory-keeping is splendid. Simple or elaborate. Fully designed pages or the slip-your-photos-in-pockets system. Mini albums or 12×12. Whatever floats your boat! Don’t feel pressure to do it one way or another. Do it how you love it and do what works for you in this stage of life. Just do something. If you love to add the extra flavor to your Project Life albums, you will love the Project Life kit by Studio Calico.
…..
Be sure to follow Studio Calico on facebook and twitter if you’re not already.
And yes – just when you thought this week couldn’t get more fun, the party continues tomorrow. And the next day. And the next day. Yeehaw!
oh WOW love Studio Calico…gotta run have to go watch that video now and SIGN UP!!!!! Wow, just made my Tuesday:)
SIGNED UP!
Yes !!!
Woohoo!!!! Awesome news, Becky!!!! I signed up too. I imagine those folks at studio calico are going to be VERY busy next month lol
oh my word!!!! This is epic. I LOVE Studio Calico and I LOVE you too Becky Higgins. This is certainly a match made in heaven.
I can not wait to see what comes to my door in 2013!!
Haha! Rosa, hearing all your talk about Becky & Project Life made me fall in love, too
I just signed up for it and I have already ordered my stuff for next year.
OMG! Did you just hear that Becky???? That was a little scream all of the way from Indiana! I have been dreaming about something like this ever since I started using PL!!!!! I am an old school scrapbooker and can’t help add to my pages… but with a toddler and a baby on the way finding all the cool, new stuff to do that was making me feel completely frazzled (not to mention that we don’t have many places nearby to get all of those cool things).
Could I be any more excited?? Well maybe if you tell us that the baby kits are ready……..;)
You’re right I’m freaking out!!!
Hope they will sell the page protectors from Project Life too!!!
WOW, WOW, WOW! And just when I didn’t think the news could get any bigger, you blow me away! This is huge and super exciting.
I’m actually a little disappointed on this announcement. I’m about ready to cancel my Studio Calico subscription due to bad customer service and questionable business practices. Plus the kits are getting more expensive with less stuff in them.
I would tend to agree with you Amanda. I had heard great things about SC and started following them. I have seen numerous customer service issues and the way their owners have handled them is very telling. April doesn’t seem to hold a candle to the way Becky treats her customers. Not sure what I will do, as I hadn’t planned on giving any money to SC but still want to do PL.
Hi Amanda and Stephanie! I’m sorry to hear you have any concerns regarding Studio Calico
Definitely send us an email at info@studiocalico.com and let us know if there is anything we can do to help.
I just want to say I have had the experience of great customer service with SC. I have even received incorrect packs of more/add on pp and they corrected without any problems. Please also know I don’t always see eye to eye with them (ie exclusive stamps), but it does not mean they do not try to make their customers happy. I just don’t want to give the impression that I think they are perfect. They are a great business that provides a great product!
Oh yeah….you better believe I am the wait list!!!
I suppose everyone has their own experience and expectations, but I’ve been a SC subber for 4 1/2 years and have always received stellar customer service. I believe they listen to their customers and take excellent care of them. Just my two cents.
I too have been a member for years and have always had 110% customer service, they have always helped me and did their best. Also i know some add ons are dearer but boy they are packed, just look at this months, also prices go up too
signed up for this already, can not wait
I also was a bit disappointed with this announcement. I got the Dec Daily kit last year and felt it did not match the description at all and even had missing items and transparencies that had been cut in two (not like the description). When I emailed SC I got an email saying I had got what was described/in the photo and that I had too high expectations and so therefore it was tough (I paraphrase). Not impressed at all. Anyway, it was a one off, so I sucked it up and decided not to buy from them again even though I do like some of their stuff and what Ali E does with it.
I am disappointed that you have to sign up to Studio Calico in order to find out more including the price…..I don’t want to join another email list just to find out the cost of something!
Here’s hoping the other announcements are as good as the one yesterday about retail distribution!
I used to be concern about to be a subscriber, I live in Brazil , always have a great customer service, always had my doubts solve. One time i have a problem with a kit but it was solved, i was impress with the care they take with the costumers. I’m sorry to hear that. The only problem for me is to receive always too late, but this is a mail problem. Always get my kit perfectly packet
This is so awesome! I just finished signing up and now on the waiting LIST!
I totally just got my email from Studio Calico, and IMMEDIATELY put myself on the waiting list! I’M SO EXCITED!!! Two of my all-time favorite things together??? AWESOME SAUCE!!!
AWESOME!! I may just have to subscribe to THIS ONE!!!
OK….are you saving the best for last??? December Daily?? tommorrws annoucement?? hee hee
Hugs and blessings,
TeriBeri
I am confused….I have not found a price on any of the links…am I missing something?
I was wondering the same thing. They want us to register to even see the site, then when you finally get the email with the registration link, they want credit card information to put you on a waiting list. Hello? Can I see a sample pack of what we might be getting and an estimated cost? Is this going to be just like their regular monthly packs but in Project Life coordinated colors? Project Life is supposed to be an affordable solution, but paying $30 a month for stamps and stickers quickly makes it way more that I want to spend. I’m not giving my credit card information to find out. So, I guess we wait for more information from Becky. Anyone else have an answer?
Well let me clarify, I see that the supplies are 19.95 per moth, but Not sure what is included. Will we have to buy the page protectors and core kits too, or is everything included in the price?
I would imagine it’s just extra elements…not page protectors and core kits!
Studio Calico is answering questions here:
http://www.studiocalico.com/community/announcements/topics/49965-becky-higgins-studio-calico-join-the-waiting-list-for-our-project-life-kits
So excited and just signed up. Was debating using their regular kit but having specifically for Project Life is outstanding. It’s going to be hard waiting until Jan.
SQUEALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!!!! I had *just* subscribed to Studio Calico’s card kit last month for this very purpose. To have some new fresh embellishments etc to be sent to me monthly without me trying to find time to hit up a craft store! Color me happy!!! I am signed up for PL kits and will most likely keep the card kit subscription too! Btw, is there a 12 step program for craft supplies? LOL You rock, Becky!!
Signed up! Excited!
This is SO ME!!!! I’ve done PL for 3 years, but this is the first year I added other elements and personal touches in addition to the already lovely PL kits. I’ve noticed how YOU and Project Life have impacted the industry in such a powerful way already…it seems that every company is coming out with a few things that would work really well in the PL albums.
I just ordered a whole bunch of photos from PP and am blown away by the quality, clarity, and color! Now I need to blog my Sept/Oct PL layouts!
Thanks so much for ALL of the hard work you and your team have put into PL and expanding your business and partnerships!
Angela in Texas
WOW, this is just awesome news. I was hoping for something like this as it is easier to get some co-ordinating and latest embellishments delivered to you instead of you trying to buy them all over the place. Loving this partnership. THanks.
Pre-Subscribed – YAY!!!!!
I’m super excited. I’m wondering if the the kit will bring enough cards and supplies for the entire month.
Oh Becky – this is awesome news.
Hugs again,
Teri
WOO HOO!!! Now I’m even MORE excited for Project Life 2013!!!!
Hi Becky! A SC Kit each month to go with Project Life sounds awesome! I was wondering, however, if there is going to be anything like this offered for those who are completing a digital PL album? I am not sure if I want to go back to paper scrapping.
Thank you for all the awesome things you do!
Jessica B.
Im signed up! I am so excited– next year will be my 5th year using 365/project life and I Love adding other elements to my pages. Although, I am a little confused –is this monthly kit to be added to the core kit? Or does the monthly kit include everything u need for that month (page protectors ect.). I already bought my core kit for next year.
This is great! I love my PL and I’ve always wanted to get SC kits but I don’t really scrapbook the traditional way anymore. I’ve already signed up for the waiting list!!
I WANT to be excited about this, but I’m having a hard time envisioning what this SC kit would include? Does it coordinate with EVERY PL kit? Or is it its OWN kit? I feel like the SC blog was too vague about what you will actually be getting, and for what price?
There is more information here, where Studio Calico is answering questions:
http://www.studiocalico.com/community/announcements/topics/49965-becky-higgins-studio-calico-join-the-waiting-list-for-our-project-life-kits
Am I understanding then that this subscription would REPLACE the PL Core Kit?
Hmm. I don’t think so, at least I haven’t read anything yet that would make me think that. Although reading how many cards will be available in the kits each month, I guess it’s possible that you could use it as the core kit, if that is what you wanted to do. I’m mainly trying out the kit so that I will have some more variety and embellishments to use that are already made to fit in PL. I still intend to use the Seafoam Kit as my base. Hopefully Becky or SC will answer this question directly somewhere.
Studio Calico’s kits are not a replacement to a Project Life kit. They are an “add-on” to your exisiting products. This idea is meant to appeal to the creatives who want to “do more” witht heir PL layouts.
I am a digital PL girl. Will SC create digital elements like what you have offered at JessicaSprague.com?
Thanks!
For parts of 2012, I’ve been using another company kit, and was on the fence about signing up for SC’s kit to use with my Project Life. (I haven’t done any real layouts since switching to PL ♥) So I am SUPER excited to see this – I know that I am going to love this. I love it being simple, but some weeks I do want to play a little more and add more!! Thanks BH AND SC!!!
Loving this Becky! I am one of those who need a little more in my pages! Thanks for this option!!!
Becky, I am SOOO excited for this. I adore SC’s kits and I adore PL and couldn’t ask for a better combo!
For those looking for more information, check out this forum thread at Studio Calico where they are answering questions:
http://www.studiocalico.com/community/announcements/topics/49965-becky-higgins-studio-calico-join-the-waiting-list-for-our-project-life-kits
Hope this is helpful!
Wow! What an exciting time for you and for all of us who have loved your creative contributions to scrapbooking. I can’t wait to see what’s next and as a person who has followed you for years (I happen to own EVERY sketches book) I am so happy for you. Congrats on all of your success!
This looks awesome, just cannot afford that much money each month. Best wishes though, obviously it will be well received.
I feel the same but you can buy individual kits, they seem to be about $5 more than the subscriber rate. You probably have to act fast since it looks like once they are gone, they’re gone.
I was really excited for the big news today, but am I the only one that when “Ugh!” when I read that?
The Good: I love the look of the Studio Calico designs. They are always beautiful!
The Bad: I hate to see Project Life turn into a subscription of any kind. To feel that I have to commit $20+shipping/month to have access to PL-branded items makes me really frustrated. Not to mention that up until now you have been very careful to make digi scrappers welcome to the PL designs – and there has been nothing to indicate that these will be in digi format. To be totally honest that isn’t easy, it isn’t accessible, it isn’t inclusive.
The Ugly: Studio Calico is the high school drama capital of the scrapbook world. I have specifically avoided subscribing because I don’t want to deal with the drama BS. I am really disappointed by this, and I really don’t understand how this partnership supports the values you’ve put into your company
Sorry Becky, I adore you and PL, but this turn of events gets two thumbs down from me. I wish you would have just had them design a kit and be done with it. The subscription thing ruins it for me.
I agree. I’m trying to find the good in this. I think you have summed it up exactly with the values comment as well. What I was trying to say, but you did it much better.
I do agree about SC, very HS and competitive to try to buy something at release time. I am hoping that they are able to work on that for PL
I agree totally with everything Andrea says!! This partnership decision ruins PL for me.
Perhaps I am the one missing here, but she just said yesterday that all of the PL products will continue to be available on Amazon, and now also in stores thanks to American Craft. This is an additional option for the uber-crafty folks. You completely have the option to pass on it if it’s not for you
“You completely have the option to pass on it if it’s not for you”
and I plan to
I’m pretty sure you missed Andrea’s point.
I must have… I thought she was saying that PL would only be available via Studio Calico and was disappointed about that. I was just replying that the regular goodies would be available elsewhere. My apologies for the misunderstanding
I don’t think the items offered are going to be “project life brand” . I imagine they will be items that work well in conjunction with PL, such as correctly sized journaling cards, lay-flat embellishments and seasonal goodies and so forth. this is just another creative option to add-on to PL. it’s not a core or mini kit, just a little something extra for those who like the idea of adding to their pockets without having to think about it too much. Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water just yet.
Also, I don’t think Miss Angela missed the point, I think she was trying to be helpful. And both of your comments to her were unnecessary.
My thoughts exactly!
I wouldn’t be surprised if in the next few days we hear about new items available for digi scrappers as well. Remember, we still have three more days of big reveals.
I’m going to try out the kit, because I think it will be a fun addition of elements, but these are really just a bonus for those who are interested in that style of scrapbooking. These items are not at all necessary for Project Life and I don’t think it’s meant to make anyone feel like that have to go out and get a subscription. It’s just one extra element.
I agree with you, Andrea! I feel the same way!!
This is even better than yesterdays news!! SC is my all time fave company!!!
This is such a wonderful news! I just joined the waiting list! Thank you
I agree Chrystal it all sounds a bit vague at this point I would like to see some kind of sneak peak or something first.
I’m looking forward to the sneak peek on Dec 14 – it’s on my calendar!
OMG I love you!!!! Two of my FAV people. Happy bday to David!
This is such a goooood news, as good as yesterday’s. Because I love Studio Calico, and you said it well: they are amazing at bringing random stuff together to create a kit that actually makes sense.
I think if people dont like sc dont do it. Its not like everything wont be the same as how its been, this is an addition add on IF you want it.
I for one am so excited!! I don’t have time to be looking for things from a ton of different places for PL but love adding extra bits to my pages.
I’m excited about this, I like both big reveals, and I’m sure that in the next few days that there will be something for the digiscraper since she does have them available over at Jessica Sprague website, that there might be more elements and such, or at least I’m hoping there will be.
I like adding little elements to my PL, thou I am so very far behind, and don’t do it on a week to week basis, hoping to change that in 2013.
But I was looking at SC subscriptions, and I really don’t need all that paper, but I love the little 6×6 paper pads, and the elements, washi tape and stamps.
I also like that AC is going to carry the core kits, hoping that the kits and pages won’t sell out that quickly as they do with Amazon.
It seems like Becky is trying to have a little bit for everyone, some that like the core kits, and keep it simple and neat, and others that like to add a little more stuff to there pages.
But I like to do a little didi scrap booking too. I hate my hand writing so I use PS elements most of the time for my journal cards. It’s nice to have the blank 3×4 cards so that I can use them on my printer, and just add a little elements to it, either digi or traditional. And sometimes it’s nice to use the core kit journal cards and just jot on them when I get far behind or in a pinch for time, or other journal cards from other designers.
I’m thinking it’s a win win situation for everyone and love what Becky has done in the scrapbooking world for most of us who have no creative bone in our body, but we can slip pictures in slots, and write on journal cards add a little elements here and there and make a memory book, or those that do have a creative body can make it look more like the traditional scrapbooking.
I say thank you Becky and look forward to seeing all the new surprises in the coming days.
In the SC post where they are answering questions it says that there won’t be any paper/cardstock in the PL kits – only journal cards. And they’ll be 3×4 and 4×6, with rounded edges. I think that’s great – I definitely don’t need more paper. I’m excited for the sneak peek on Dec. 14 – I’m curious what they’ll come up with.
http://www.studiocalico.com/community/announcements/topics/49965-becky-higgins-studio-calico-join-the-waiting-list-for-our-project-life-kits
Sweet! Yes, I am freaking out, awesome news!
Thank you Becky, for all you do – your products have made such an amazing impact in my life & I’m sure, so many others as well!
Great!
You will also see that I take advantage of most ALL of your variously laid out pocket pages 
They are scattered thruout the book as the pictures fall into place 
What I love about Project Life is that I am NOT limited to the pocket pages… Anytime I want to I can slip in your 12×12 open pocket and put in traditional double spread 12×12 layouts… the best of both worlds
Thanks for such a versatile program….. and hurry up with the 8×8′s please!!! LOL !
I am praying fervently that tomorrow’s announcement is for either a EK Success punch for journaling cards or a sizzix die for journaling cards. Pretty please?!
I love that PL is becoming so widespread! Amazing news Becky!!
All signed up! Love both companies!
This is definitely not for me, not a big fan of SC. I hope that everyone else who has signed up for it has a great time and i wish you the best of luck with it. But ill sit this one out. Ready to get back to my happy place tomorrow with more updates from you
I’m right there with you – guess not everyone can be happy.
I agree…feels more like a way to make more money but so not a good why to go about it. Turns me off and this is my 4th year doing Project 365/Project Life.
Not for me. Its just another 25 dollars for embellishments. Project Life is supose to be about simplicity. I think were losing track of what Project Life is all about. Journalling in my own handwriting is the best embellishment you can have.
oh, I so agree with you!
I agree, making Project Life too big is taking away the simplicity and special meaning of what it was all about. There’s tons of stuff out there for making elaborate and intricate PL and thats great for individuals to do so. But to open the brand up to this huge mega production and chain like product leaves itself open to product quality and logistics on a huge scale. For me, I just want to order on Amazon and perhaps something like a 3x4punch etc to make it easier. We have all seen what successful small scrapbook lines have turned into and how many gone……I loved the feeling that PL had — the small community, products, simplicity and sincerity in a small business.
becky has to be careful that this does not get too out of control. I want to also call amazon and just order what I want. I might as well go back to traditional scrapbooking otherwise. What happened to Becky’s old blog when she would post pics and give me ideas. Sometimes I miss that.
It’s possible I’ve completely misunderstood, but the impression I have is that the Studio Calico kit is purely Studio Calico making a kit that is designed to work with PL for those who like to go find their own embellishments to add – this will be an easier option for them. I don’t think it’s going to be Project Life branded exactly. I don’t think they will have any part of the Core Kits, etc… I think they are simply offering a kit that is designed to provide a certain subset of PL people will the kind of embellishments they are looking for.
And the impression I have is that American Crafts is basically going to be the distributor to get PL into retail stores.
I don’t think anything is going to change with the Main PL offerings or with the Amazon supply.
Seriously, I don’t get it. People beg for more product and availability, and when she gives it to us they complain?
What you have to remember that when it is only available in Amazon it makes it extremely hard to get international, there is one place i can get it here in NZ and it is double the price. This news for internationals is amazing as we can get it easier now
We’re SUPER excited to partner with Becky on this new venture!!
***Nik here…editing with answers to your questions as we go
***
-Yes there is a 6 month commitment, just like the scrap/card kits. A cancellation fee of $15 will apply if you choose to end your subscription prior to that 6 months.
-First Kit will be a January kit
-The PL Kit will coordinate with both the Scrap Kit and the Card Kit. Manufacturers are eager to collaborate with us in the same way they do now for our other kits.
-The Journal Cards that come in your PL Kit each month will coordinate with the papers in the other 2 kits.
-There will be an exclusive stamp set each MONTH!
-yes, we plan on stocking PL albums and page protectors
-the price is $19.95/month for subbers, $24.95 for non-subbers
-Shipping cost will definitely be less, however we are waiting on specifics so that we can quote you a price. It will defiitely be competitive though
-journal cards will be 3×4 and 4×6, with rounded edges.
-there will be at least 30-31 DOUBLE-SIDED cards per month
-Sneak Images of the first kit will be on Dec. 14 @midnight EST
-there will be NO OVERLAP of embellishments between kits.
-the journal cards will be professionally printed…they are not digital/print-at-home variety
-We aren’t able to ‘switch’ a card sub for a PL sub due to quantities that have already been ordered. If you would like to cancel your Card Kit sub prior to the 6-month commitment, you will incur a cancellation fee.
-we are sourcing stamp designs from many in the industry to add variety to all of our kits
-Pre-order is likely to sell out quickly. We may be able to increase our numbers due to demand, but the best way to insure you receive the January kit is to join the Wait List/pre-order.
-If you already subscribe to the Scrap Kit, the PL Kit will ship to you at no extra cost, just as add-ons do now.
-embellishments will vary from month to month, including alphabet stickers (not Thickers)
-we aren’t planning (as of now) to have additional digi offerings specifically for PL…although the monthly ones we offer will work nicely for any of our kits
-the only place to purchase the PL kit contents will be via the PL kit.
-the PL kit stamp sets will be similar in size to the sets offered in add-ons…which is reflected in the cost of the PL kit.
-journal cards each month will be non-themed, to accommodate all PL members
No negative comments from me… I may not use the SC supplies or ever sign up for a subscription. But, I love that the possibility is out there. I don’t think it is possible to get ‘too big’. I just want to congratulate you on all your success. All of these things you have put together are just amazing, and I am thankful to have them.
Love this Cyndie. So totally agree
Oh…wow its like a dream!! Congrats on such a fantastic choice of merging.
This is really disappointing. I’ve had a horrible, horrible customer service experience with Studio Calico and I wouldn’t recommend them to anybody. Not to mention the controversy with their “exclusive” items being oversold to other retailers, the competitive nature of their retail setup and their often nasty forums.
But my “style” of PL is very clean and graphic anyway, so I’m sure missing out on these “kits” won’t cause me to miss any sleep.
I’m really looking forward to more announcements, Becky! Hopefully they will be more positive than this one.
(And before anybody jumps in to white knight SC, I am entitled to my opinion – just as you are entitled to yours.)
Helen… Well said.
Exactly the same experience I had with customer service. I decided that there are too many other worthy business out there that value my business and never looked back to them again. But that is ok because I agree with the simplicity style of PL. I’m just starting and I have a ton of my own stuff to use up.
I was hoping for some more new designs for Project Life as the new ones for 2013 are a bit wishy washy.
Agreed…..SC mediocre at best and quality at American Crafts mediocre as well. I never thought Project Life would become the big $ machine it now is.
Im almost afraid of what the next announcement is….I liked everything about Beckys small business and PL which could have just added some support –administrative, support logistics and design….don’t attack me. just my opinion.
The American Crafts doesn’t mean much to me, because I’ll continue to order from Amazon. I’m interested in the SC kit because I’ve tried to find small embellishments that would work with PL, and I’m honestly just not great at wading through all the product offerings out there to find what would work for me.
I can understand where you are coming from, because as small businesses grow there are always changes and often those changes have mixed effects.
The one thing I have to respectfully disagree with (just sharing my opinion here as well, not meaning to invalidate yours in any way) is that PL is a $ machine. I just don’t think that is the case and I don’t think profit is driving these changes. I think a lot of people use PL in different ways, and many people have been asking for PL to be more accessible to them (especially to consumers outside the US) and for products to use PL the way that appeals to them – I think these changes are a direct result of Becky doing her best to meet the needs and requests of all of her customers as best as she can. She seems to be providing a lot of options so that her customers can all hopefully use PL in the way that best suits their own individual style.
If you’re looking for a few extras for your albums I’d suggest looking on 2 Peas in a Bucket at the new Simple Stories Sn@p line…it’s very much designed to work with PL. I just bought some stuff and it’s super cute!
I should probably add that I have very little experience with either American Crafts or Studio Calico. I’ve just been very happy with Project Life and I trust that Becky Higgins is very good at what she does and that she makes these decisions with the best interests of her company and customers in mind. So I’m optimistic.
Comments like this one make me smile
Of COURSE profit is driving these changes! Project Life is a business, not just a concept. Like every single business owner in the world, Becky wants to maximise her profits, and one of the best ways of doing so is to diversify the product and get it out into new markets, where more people will hear about it and buy buy buy. This doesn’t mean that Becky doesn’t care about her customers; I believe she is very passionate about great customer service and giving her customers what they want. But seriously…mama needs to get paid, and SC has a massive following. It makes perfect sense from a business standpoint, both for SC and Becky.
As I wanted to point out with my comment above was that I wish Becky had done a bit more research into *who* she partnered with, as SC has a less than savoury reputation in many scrapbooking circles. It astonishes me how many people have committed to $20 a month without even a HINT of what they can expect to see product-wise…typical SC practise to whip everyone up in a frenzy with promises of big things, but how do we really know the product will be delivered on time and in line with our expectations (I reference the missing binders from last year’s December Daily kit, the lack of communication with customers and the truly terrible way it was handled by SC). And as for making things more accessible for international customers…as an international customer who has had an atrocious experience with SC, I highly doubt this will be the case.
I am very glad so many people are happy with this partnership and I hope it goes well for Becky and SC, but it has left a very sour taste in my mouth to see an awesome business owner like Becky partner with a far-less-than-awesome business like SC. I know I am not the only one feeling like this.
Of course you’re right that profits play a role, but I think there’s a difference between companies and decisions that are solely profit driven, versus a more balanced approach – with the goal of long-term customer satisfaction. That’s all I meant by that, but I guess it did come across a bit pollyanna-ish.
Nothing wrong with a Pollyanna outlook
But I think you have summed up SC vs. Becky quite nicely in your company distinctions! It is nice to have a civil debate with a fellow scrapper. I do hope everything with SC works out for those who want the kits, but I will stick to my lovely Seafoam edition!
I’m a completely digital scrapbooker (for layouts) but am planning to start (paper) Project Life in 2013. Although I do a little cardmarking, I don’t have a stockpile of cute stuff to embellish my album with, so this announcement was exciting to me. I drool over SC’s kits every month, but can never afford them (or really justify them since I don’t paper scrap LOL!). I’ve never ordered their kits before, but they always look beautiful, and now I have a legitimate reason to sign up since I’ll “need” fun goodies for PL! I’m someone who enjoys adding “extras” and I know I wouldn’t be content with just the photos+cards method, but with 3 little boys at home I dont have time to go shopping for the newest coolest embellishments. Thanks for offering a great solution for a certain segment of your market, Becky! I’m a first-time Project Lifer and SC subber and I’m so excited!
I wish her and David the best, although neither of these announcements are something for me to get “stoked” about. I think the trend moving away from the simple, prosaic. PL that I have loved and supported initially doesn’t strike me now.
Moving to the big business with all these “options” ($) have nothing that I really NEED, especially in this economy. ..its just more stuff. I think about all the great small companies that “partnered” or were eventually bought by a larger company and lost their soul and business I hope this doesnt happen to PL. I understand there was a need for managing this business better as it grew larger, but I was hoping she was getting more staff to help with the administrative, and logistical needs—-not just more and more product options.
i was thinking the same thing.
A Project Life Core Kit that contains everything you’d need for an entire YEAR is $25. And for just one *month* the Studio Calico kit will be $20? PLUS shipping? Something doesn’t add up here.
There’s a stamp set included. I’m a stampin up demo, most sets are $20ish plus.
Melissa,
The stamp will be 3″ x 4″ at the largest. It doesn’t compare to a SU stamp that would be over $20
I don’t think the Studio Calico option will be for me. Too many embellishments, too much going on, and way more money than I would want to spend. I prefer a cleaner, simpler Project Life. I don’t have hours to spend on layouts and more hours to kill on forums discussing my layouts, you know?
On another note– I would love to see bolder colors in a future PL edition. Several of the current editions look kind of the same to me. I’d like to see something that looks different from the rest.
Hi skamath. You took the words out of my mouth. How do people close there Project Life Binder with all these embellishments in. I have a tough time as it is and I have just photo’s and jounalling. After all a year is along time to collect Project Life memory bits and pieces.
[...] also was very excited to hear the news of Project Life Kits being sold by Studio Calico! I already signed up for the waiting list to get a subscription! Oh yes I [...]
WHEW…I am exhausted reading all the “comments”. ALL great, and made me smile! There were SO many fantastic points. And YES its ALL about business, and making money, thats the name of the game!!! I have to say though with all the HIPE, we have NO clue what it looks like, all the PL core kits are different, how does one even know if it will match, ect. BUT all said and done Mel really made me think, You spend $25.00 on a core kit, and $20.00 on embellishments, ummmm your right something doesn’t add up here:) Its our nature us scrapbookers, we love new stuff. Glad I read all of your comments, made me take a step back, and just think about not running to my computer to sign up! But thats the greatest part ever…we ALL have a choice:)
I want to clarify that I continue to love PL. But another thing that turned me off when I watched that Studio Calico video was all the stuff about competing with others to put things into your timed cart at midnight! Are they serious? That kind of competitive stuff totally doesn’t appeal to me or seem to fit with the laid-back, happy image I have had of Project Life.
This partnership is an interesting turn of events to say the least.
But no matter, like someone else said, I’ll sit this out and keep my fingers crossed for new core kits and a 3×4 punch.
Skamath,
I agree with your comments. This Studio Calico is a total turn off for me. I don’t like the idea of it at all! I don’t want to be part of what I consider a scam or game. Maybe others don’t see it that way but I do. What Becky has created with Project Life seems cheapened by joining up with this Studio Calico. I hope the rest of the news is not about companies like this one.
Sorry Becky Higgins bad choice on this one.
I have to agree that I am a bit disappointed with this merger…I thought Project Life was supposed to be simple…not too much extra! From somebody who has gotten away from all the extras (even gotten rid of the extra clutter), this is not for me. Hopefully it will remain a choice and those of us who want to just stick with Becky’s “back to basics” apporach, we’ll continue to be able to do so:)
I love all the options for Project Life. I like that one week I can be simplistic and other weeks I can go all out. I love how I can change my layouts with the time I have each week.
It’s great to see we can have all these options and there is a piece for everyone.
Thanks Becky!
What great announcements Becky! Project Life truly has options for everyone. If you like your PL simple and straightforward there are options for you. If you love the traditional creative layout approach, there are options for you.
Either way, in my eyes, Project Life is just as simple and straightforward as always. You choose what works for you and go for it. Thanks for having such a great pulse on your customer to offer choices that suits everyone’s needs. While I choose to go the simple route, I am excited for those who still love the creativity that the creative layout approach offers. (Although I find that my creativity is served just as much when I do ‘just’ the Core Kit and photos. ) Either way – whatever you like – there are options!
Thanks Becky!
Im not a fan of taking this great concept and making it a chain like product. I think it will lose something in the translation of these other companies now attached to it. We are very simply capturing our everyday memories, the prosaic, the simple, the realness of life, now that its attached to corporate feel, Im just not excited. But, it does give the masses “options” to come in so thats great for them. I hope it works out for Becky and David. …….I really was hoping the news was that she was adding staff to her line (keeping it PL as we know it) yet adding the support staff that a growing business needs.
I am thrilled!! I love that PL can be done in so many ways and that this gives PLers another OPTION. You want simple? Stick with the basics! No one is forcing you to embellish your PL. But this is a fabulous OPTION for those of us who like a little more on our pages.
SC is a wonderful company – as I said further up, I’ve subbed with SC for more than 4 years and have never had one issue with them. Their kits are gorgeous, their customer service is stellar and I am grateful for this fabulous OPTION!
Not exactly in keeping with initial philosophy of keeping it simple and thoughtful. Options appeals to the masses — thats fine and may work for many …..and its the american way $$$
I think having Project Life available at local craft stores is a GREAT idea! Not everyone goes online to learn about scrapbooking and many, many, many people who would use a simple system like Project Life don’t even know it exists! If you aren’t already a scrapbooker, you are not going to get any exposure to Project Life unless you personally know someone who uses it. Availability in local stores will provide exposure for these people (unless it is only in small scrapbooking stores.)
I completely agree!!
Understanding the amount needed for your amazon loyal based customers has been difficult –at best. Constantly depleted stock. long windows of time with no product.
How are you going to accurately forecast the needs of local scrapbook stores (and possible chains). Please dont cut off and reduce your loyal amazon following. There is not a lss store anywhere near me so this would be a major problem if we prioritize lss.
Super excited about this! I’ve been subbing with SC for a while now and I love them! I can’t wait to see what they create!
Curious to hear about your plans for ordering the correct amount — Amazon has been seriously flawed and now adding lss could potentially make planning even more significant.
Should have said Amazon quantities flawed-not planned to the demand accurately each year. i have had great service via Amazon
I have to agree with Caroline. I have had excellent service from Amazon and will still choose to get my Project Life from them.
What drew me to PL in the beginning was the simplicity…. that said, this new offer is not for me. I’m sure Becky did lots of research before making the partnership, but it’s hard for me to understand this one. My biggest surprise is how many people have already signed up for this subscription sight unseen!!
Love the partnership Becky – gives people who want to do something different with pl the option to do so, and also help them in selecting things that complement the kits to get even more creative. The success of pl is great. Both partnerships give extra things to customers, more choice and more availability and hopefully will mean that you and David don’t spread yourselves too thin and can enjoy your business without doing all the set up yourselves. Obviously if people don’t like elements they can just not opt into these.
Btw echo the 3×4 rounded corner punch request – pretty please!
I have to admit to being pretty excited about this. I personally love Studio Calico’s products and I’ve been enjoying my subscription with them for about a year now. I love the idea of Project Life but I have to admit that one of the reasons I haven’t really tried it yet is because none of the core kits so far has really “spoken” to me. None of them seem to fit right with my own style. I’m hoping that since I’m a Studio Calico fan already maybe their kit will speak to me and I can get on the bandwagon! I’m going to wait and see what they come up with before I commit… Very excited to see how the first kits work out! =)
When I click on your link to watch the video over on SC it’s not there. I’ve clicked around several places on their site and can’t find it. Was the video just for 1 day?
What about PL page protectors to fit 8×8 binder albums and perhaps a Dec. Daily theme PL kit? I’m sure I’m not the first one to ask!!
[...] be able to get the products in local stores here in Australia! She’s also announced a partnership with Studio Calico, meaning they’ll offer Project Life kits each month as [...]
[...] geared to those who want to be creative with their pages. If you missed it, please read that quick Q&A post from when we announced the partnershp in October. It will make a lot of [...]