d.i.y. "mixed tape" favors

Remember those cute "mixed CD" favors I made for the bridal shower last weekend?  Well, today, I thought I'd share how I made them!  These were such a hit and would be a perfect favor for a wedding, bridal shower or party without breaking the bank.

Here's what you'll need:
* Scrapbook paper (I used an Amy Butler 12x12 scrap pack from Michael's)
* Ruler and X-acto blade (or paper cutter)
* Colored thread
* 1" circle punch (mine is a Martha Stewart one also available at Michael's)
* Blank, writable CDs (CD-R or CD-RW)
* Twine or thread
* Cute tag (optional)
* Sewing machine

First, cut out two equal pieces of paper from your larger piece of patterned paper.  I made my pieces 6-1/2" x 6-1/2".

Align your pieces of paper so that they are laying right on top of one another.  Using your sewing machine, thread your colored thread and pick your style of stitch.  I chose a zig-zag stitch.  Sew three sides of your paper, about 1/4" in from the edge.  Make sure to back stitch when you begin and end for extra strength.

Using your paper punch, line the punch up so that the paper is halfway inside the punch (like a half moon) and punch out your shape on the edge of the sleeve that is not stitched.

Burn a CD of your and your husband-to-be's favorite songs.  Insert the CD into the sleeve.  Tie the whole thing with twine and attach a tag thanking guests for coming and instructing them to take some tunes for the ride home.  You could also forgo the tag and put them all in a cute basket with a handmade sign in front with the same instructions.

Extra credit:  Print out labels for your cd's with graphics from your wedding or event along with all the track names on the CDs.  Stick them onto the CD before inserting into the sleeve.