Inspired by classic movies and movie stars from the golden days of Hollywood, the Noir Blanc Paper Collection from Tinkering Ink includes simple yet sophisticated patterns in black and white. I also love the fact that each design is named after a movie star. Featured above? Why, Humphrey Bogart (top) and Lauren Bacall (bottom), of course!

Tinkering Ink has several additional collections worth checking out if you’re into scrapbooking or are looking for interesting designs for your latest paper project.

images from Tinkering Ink

The ultra-summery July 2007 issue of Martha Stewart Living features a number of inspirational articles for those of you looking to fancy up your summer get togethers.

My favorite was a craft-centric article that discusses the patterns in traditional bandana designs and uses those patterns as the inspiration for several craft projects, including invitations and paper bag luminarias. Who knew that a bandana, something that most of us probably have tucked away in our dresser drawer, could be so inspirational?

images from Martha Stewart Living

Fantastic news on the Gocco front — Paper Source is now carrying Gocco machines, screens, and inks! They’re carrying the “Big Daddy” sized machine, which is twice the size of the B6 and prints sizes up to 6.5″ x 9.3″, allowing for more flexibility in your printing endeavors.

This is definitely great news for Gocco fanatics who are in dire need of supplies or those who have been waiting to try out screenprinting with a Gocco. Yay, Gocco’s back!

Giving a handmade card is the perfect way to personalize a gift or special occasion. ZeVin Creations, a sister-owned greeting card company, has something for most every occasion and uses everything from scrapbooking supplies to wallpaper and fabric to create their cards.

I’m loving the “Hats Off to the Grad” card (pictured above), customized with the student’s information and school colors. Graduation party season is in full swing, and this gift within a card is a unique way to give the perfect grad gift…cash. Or, perhaps, the keys to a new car. Ah, grads have it good!

image from ZeVin Creations

I’m digging these colorful, stylized botanical prints from Atlanta based graphic designer Lexie Sullivan’s recently launched paper goods line. The bright, rainbow colored prints would brighten any room.

Lexie also has sets of cards with her signature dynamic style. Check out the full line of paper goods at Lexie Sullivan’s Etsy shop.

images from Lexie Sullivan Paper Goods

Two of my biggest passions in life, besides paper, are food and photography, so I’m always excited when I find an artist who draws them all together in an interesting way. Jennifer Causey is such an artist (photographer, to be specific), and I can’t stop looking at the prints that she has available in her Etsy shop. The composition, tone, and colors are just beautiful.

Check out more of Jennifer’s wonderful photography here.

images from Jennifer Causey

I couldn’t help but post about this Father’s Day card from Pink Bathtub Designs. On the outside, it says “Happy Father’s Day.” Par for the course, right? But on the inside, it says, “to a fun guy!” Get it? Mushrooms = fungi = fun guy? Hee! $3.50 for each handprinted card at Pink Bathtub’s Etsy shop.

image from Pink Bathtub Designs

I’m loving these gift wrap patterns from Pop Ink. Oh so retro! Thankfully, each pattern comes in a set of two sheets ($6.50 for each set at French Paper), so you can use one to wrap a gift and keep one for your collection.

I also love to see that Pop Ink uses the patterns on a variety of products, from plates to soap to napkins, showcasing their versatility. Featured patterns (clockwise, from top left): Op-Tickle, Flocked Again, Distinguished Panel, and Red Lotus.
images from Pop Ink and French Paper