mmmn bilberry pie

Agony.....eeeeeeee!

2011-06-09T00:16:00.000-07:00

I have been watching Maureen Lipman at the Hay Festival on TV this morning. Man, is she so intelligent and funny. But whatsmore, and what I envy her for, she is observant. I am not, I miss all the little subtleties that go on, don't pick up the non verbals and generally allow the world to pass by unnoticed unless it's "in your face" type of event. Can any of you remember her sitcom "Agony"...I'm 16 and I'm feeling kinda on the shelf, sometimes I get a funny pain....
So as it's my birthday tomorrow, I have just ordered her latest book from Amazon, it'll be fabulous, I know it and it's bitesize peices of wit and wonder. Can't wait.
This card is for Polka Doodles secret. It's not wildly imaginative I admit, but the secret is in on of the tiny envelopes and it's a promise tot the person receiving the card.

She's Gorjuss, carrying a letter and I've used a Papermania pad to make tonal paper envelopes, with a papermania template. Decorated them with peel offs, added a green brad and coloured Gorjuss with Promarkers. The band across the middle is Martha Stewart leaf punch and I've saved the leaves and added them to the envelopes. It's all distressed with Black soot ink.

I don't know what to have with birthday money but I am desperately trying to avoid crafting goodies as I have too much. But it's going to be difficult to resist.
Catcha later.

Monochrome

2011-06-08T09:52:00.000-07:00

Just a quickie post. Entry for Less is More challenge this week, which is monochrome. So I have opted for Lilac and fulfilled my objective of doing some stamped cards this week. Have a couple of days off for the old birthday so might get a bit of craft time. Yay!

It's a Gorjuss girl in the rain, purple papers and confetti and a Sue Dreamer rub on, all on card punched with a Martha Stewart.
Hubby's back from Las Vegas. I didn't get a pressie, girls!
Catcha later

Dogs and bones

2011-06-01T09:08:00.000-07:00

Have managed to do a card for this week's Polka Doodles, whose theme is Male only card. For me, like many other crafters, I find it difficult being inspired by male themed cards. However, yesterday, I took niece number 2 to Hartlepool Museum and maritime experience where I picked up a few postcards, reflecting wartime advertising and slogans. One of which was about growing food in your garden or getting an allotment.
Now allotments are popular in our village as it was a mining village with terraced houses, many without gardens. So allotments have always been sought after. My OH and his brother were offered one after the owner died, and we were filled with Tom and Barbara Goode type thoughts, lovely fresh veggies and flowers. But when the lads came to turn over the soil, they found the remains of many a dead whippet and greyhound. The previous owner had been a dog lover and his dearly departed friends got buried in the allotment. As you can imagine, the dream soon faded and the land was offered to someone who would be less phased by the dead dogs and their bones. So to the card:

It's Basic grey paper, sewn roughly (still getting familiar with the old machine), half of the dig your allotment postcard, mounted with the edges distressed with Tim Holtz's distressing thingy: a Polka Doodles paper ribbon, a 7 gypsies flower label, a Tim Holtz ticket and a leaf shaped button. The circle is a reflection of the digger. It's very forties, but would suit the chaps round here of a certain age.
Catcha later

Struggling

2011-05-31T12:28:00.000-07:00

I am so struggling to get any motivation due to this job situation. I am trying to remain realistic, not too hopeful that I might be redeployed and pragmatic about the future. Is it the worst thing that can happen---probably not. But it's the not knowing and this colours everything at the moment. So I have missed some of my favourite challenges lately, and I need to have some discipline because ultimately it's the crafting that makes me feel better and allows some stress free time. So I gave myself a good talking to today, watched the launch of Dawn Bibby on Create and Craft (some great new products) and set about making a couple of cards. This one is for Less is More (I am after all a Limette), whose theme this week is "square".
I kept this one really simple:

It's a little smirk shaker topper, with a lurve theme. My OH is in Las Vegas and this softie is missing him. And I've just added lots of basic layers, the last 2 of which are distressed with a Tim Holtz thingy.
So it is very simple but the topper was so sweet and the theme just begged for basic, for this Limette anyway. I have set myself the objective of doing at least 2 stamped cards this week too as I am seriously neglecting my stamps. Am going to order the Kaisercraft rub ons on C and C tas I can't yet get the hang of the computer text I see such fab examples of on the LIM site, but I am going to do some practice sheets and have bought some SAFMAT so I can save any good examples and print it off to use again. Yeah right!
Catcha later, off to check out your blogs.

Tracey Emin makes jam

2011-05-20T07:40:00.000-07:00

And enjoys sewing! I was watching an interview with her this morning. She has such interesting opinions on art and learning more about her creativtiy was fascinating. But what was even better is that she makes jam and loves sewing. I think this is just great, as although it's not art, it's about creating something, and that makes you feel something: good hopefully. So does papercrafts, and many of us are involved in this hobby because we are not painters, artists, designers, but we can have a go at design and still create something unique, which gives pleasure to ourselves and others. It gave me a bit motivation which has been lacking this week. Without going into details, job's not safe, but need to hang in for a transfer somewhere else and hope the dreaded redundancy doesn't come along. It's not happening imminently but probably next year. So, not felt too good, but after listening to Tracey this morning, it gave me a bit of creative bounce back. I tried out my new sewing machine on my card and have started a little stuffed heart; will post when finished. I had bought a little hand held, which served it's purpose but made me want a proper machine. Got me a basic Singer and am up and running.
So this is the creation, it will not be appearing in the Tate.

Free paper from a recent mag, matted, layered and sewn, some Forever Friends paper, Gorjuss topper, foam flowers with stick on crystals and a crocheted flower with pins. I've got a day off today so am going to catch up on some blogs and forums.
Catcha later

All white on the night

2011-05-08T08:44:00.000-07:00

The LIM challenge this week is white on white. That certainly leaves a lot of options open. It took me ages of thinking and rethinking. Limited stamping, not a great deal of layering. OK, so this leaves, texture, and plently of it. I didn't want to do any embossing as it was my first idea and I wanted to try and come up with something different, but I couldn't. So here's the obvious, die cuts and glitter. Man have I got a creative imagination. Not!

OK, so die cut Sissix flourishes, die cut frames from Klever cutz, die cut butterfly by thingy, die cut quilled flowers by Papermania, die cut letters by Sissix, pearly things for the butterflies body, and some spray and sparkle on the letters and flourishes.
Exciting huh! Can you tell I'm not in a good mood? And the damned card's probably the wrong shape.
Catcha later, folks.

Pull yourself together, woman.

2011-05-02T23:13:00.000-07:00

I am sitting blogging and watching a recording of the Hotel Inspector instead of getting ready for work, so this is a short one. Back to Polka Doodles again, I took a break and now inspired by Nicky's appearances over the weekend, I am back in the zone. So this is for the aqua, blue and lilac challenge.

All papers are from the Wonderland CD in appropriate colours and I have woven 2 of them for the second mat. The image on the nesties is Violet from the Octopode factory. Added paper flowers and ribbon flowers from Mei, a distressed tag from Tim Holtz and ribbon. I overstamped the papers with a stamp from the Polka Doodles Alice set.
Catcha later.

Having some peace

2011-05-02T06:13:00.000-07:00

It's a quiet day, no visitors, OH is golfing and I have time to craft and watch some TV. Been leap blogging, some great blogs and talent.. Loving seeing some of the variety and ideas out there, it's amazing what people come up with. Also doing some LIM comments, although there are so many entries, I feel a bit inadequate. I try to do at least 20 comment from throughout the list, and I would love to do more but there are so many wonderful ones to choose from. This week it's a bit of a free choice but with a congrats of thank you theme. I've done 2:

This is my "reader "stamp. In red stazon, and I wanted her to be in a garden, but that defeats the LIM/CAS approach, so I went for an abstract trellis from My Mind's eye Wild asparagus stamps. I put the congrats on a curve and paper pricked the border. Thought it would suit a graduate.

This is embossed with a GG board and the stamp is MME Wild asparagus again. I added some white peel offs tot the bottom and round the frame.
Off to do more comments.
Catcha later

Howay the lads

2011-05-01T10:45:00.000-07:00

We had a barbecue yesterday, it was a bit chilly but good fun. I thought I'd let you meet the lads: Lad number one, my fly catching OH, Bobby. He says he wasn't asleep.

And these are my adopted lads (belong to my sister, but she always had to share!)

Blitz and Combat. little Shih Tzu's. Sausage scroungers and burger nappers.

And considering this is a crafting blog, a card. Polka doodles card and sweet stickers.

Catcha later. Time for leap blogging.

And did those feet....

2011-04-29T13:08:00.000-07:00

I was only intending to watch the frock and then do some housework and crafting, but I didn't. Sat glued until the end of the ceremony. It was sweet, happy and uplifting and ceremoniusly english. Where else? Got to admit, it was something to be proud of in a land that's got some worrying social probs. But it wasn't the day for that.
I did get some crafting done though, fancied a challenge with a difference, so opted for a recycling (For Fun Challenge)and a something not normally used for crafting (Paper Play challenge) and Daring Cardmakers Royal theme. This was in the well of my car, which is in desperate need of a clean out (plan for Monday). It's air freshener wrapping,

And I turned it into this, although I must admit I am not a fan of rodents, even those sporting the Union flag.

So, recycled air freshener wrapper, not normally used for crafting, plus accessorize stickers, paper pieced mouse from the Tatty Button range. He's called Pip. Some tricolour ribbon, red white and blue, not french and a bubble sticker. I am sure I'll get out of this Britannia phase soon, probably when I play Polkadoodles on Sunday
Barbecue day tomorrow, I've got a Key Lime Pie and trifle to make.
Catcha later.

The sun has gone

2011-04-25T23:03:00.000-07:00

This is a sweet romantic one, using Forever Friends paper and Lili of the Valley image. For Little Claire's animals challenge and Sketch and Stash (Sketch 7) free choice.

And card 2 is for Less is more Off centre, using Accessorize paper and stickers.

Where does the day go?

2011-04-25T08:46:00.000-07:00

I thought I would have loads of time to craft today, but I honestly don't know where the days gone. Well I do, shopping, cleaning, washing etc. But it's now tea time and I have to cook, have a bath and wash hair, unpack, and the list goes on. I finished a couple of cards off though and did manage to do a bit of leap blogging, which I enjoy. Some talent out there.
So I made this with some Faye Whittaker decoupage I won in a comp. I had to cut it out, and really enjoyed getting back to some basic decoupage again. It's for the Allsorts challenge and The Crafty calendar challenge, which is April showers. It reminded me of being on the beach after a rain shower and feeling that sense of refreshment after the heat, and the image isn't over summery. For me it's about getting to the beach as quickly as possible because the sun is out and tolerating the odd shower, which is what we have to do in the North East. However, the image is also more Deauville than Seaton Carew, so I added the ribbon francais.

It's Craftwork cards paper, little clouds and stripes, with an embossed dotty border. French ribbon and a sentiment which says especially for you. I've gossy accented the ribbons and added flower soft to the hat band. It's back to basics but very clean and crisp.
Catcha later

God for Harry,England and Saint George

2011-04-24T08:27:00.000-07:00

I made these cards as there's such a range of Cool Britannia stuff around at the mo. I must admit, I love national culture, it's something to take pride in. I love going to other countires and seeing their art, their style and the quirks that give them a national identity. And I feel the same about England: OH and me spent the evening in Hexham, had dinner with friends and wandered round the park. It had a bowling green and bandstand and an ice cream seller. There are antique shops, an independent bookseller and beautiful florists. Oooh and bumped into Tim Healey (Benidorm and Auf Wiedersehen Pet). We travelled home over the north pennines and onto the Durham moors, so little traffic, sun and sheep and peace and quiet. A lovely St Georges day, great englishness and just a pleasant day.
Anyway, I made these cards and put them on the Do Crafts gallery, and they didn't get any comments. I think the cute cards definitely attract the attention , but sometimes I fancy a bit of a change. But I like them and so they are going onto the old blog too as an antidote to popular taste in cards at the mo.
They were made using some great stickers from Accessorize, some papers chains from the same and some Craftwork Cards papers. I'm going to send them as belated Easter cards, just in time for the Royal wedding.

Catcha later.

That'll be the day

2011-04-22T06:27:00.000-07:00

That I admit that I like musicals. I was brought up on them, my Mam and Dad loved them: I was named after Kathy in the Student Prince. You name it, I was encouraged to love it: My Fair Lady, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Sound of Music. And rock and roll... my parents era,. Would I truly admit to really enjoying them. Nope: so when my OH suggested we go to London to see a couple of musicals, particularly as Samantha would like them I was more focused on how I would fit in Harrods, museums, Westminster Abbey etc. But we saw Mamma Mia and Wicked and I loved them.
So last night when our neighbour offer us tickets to Buddy, I was quite enthusiastic but not so up for the rock and roll.

But, who was up dancing and jiving at the finale and got totally taken up in the atmosphere. Yes, my friends you guessed it: so not cool but very happy. Great songs and production. I loved it.
My sis has asked me to make a new baby card, so this is dedicated to Peggy Sue (if you knew), although she is actually called Mia

So this is made from Nitwit papers, with Nitwit lamb decoupage, a bit satin bow, button and Paula Pascual stamps. I like the fact it's not overly pink (can't do everything sis asks, so I combined it with an olivey green card to layer onto). It's sweet but not too sickly. I enjoyed making it, I've been too focused on challenges lately and I need to do these but fit in making cards I want to make too. So this fits the bill.
Off to Hexham tomorrow so might take a Jar!
I am going to have a cuppa and watch Ms Bibby
Catcha later.

Children of the night....

2011-04-17T01:18:00.000-07:00

Be quiet! This is a quote from my favourite Vampire film: Love at first bite. I liked it because the vampires weren't scary. But there's always been something strangely attractive about vampires I think......oooh anyway, the reason for the vampires is that I went to Whitby yesterday. It's only 1 hour 15 mins from us and just a nice distance for a day out. But like a vampire can sniff out blood, I can sniff out a craft shop at 500yards. I am talking about Daisy crafts, which is wall to wall goodies. You need to call in if you are in Whitby. I got some bargains, totted it up and it was £36 worth for £11.75. I got Wild Asparagus paper and the stamp set, 2 lots of Laura Ashley paper packs (including velvet paper) and some Smirk paper to go with stamps I bought and haven't really used. I also bought a few little ornamental goodies.

I got a new Russian doll to add to the girls on my mantle piece(for another post), a hand made heart and some letter blocks which are distressed and have some fine script stamped on them too. I put them on my little table only to keep finding them changed. OH thinks it's so funny! NOT

It is now my quest to find some blocks which spell PRAT.
As an aside, have any of you seen the blog called It's al a fiddle fart?Please take a look at it, it has some amazing ideas for crafters who want to do a few things other than cards. The lady who makes these is so talented and the blog is such a good read. Anyway, she picked up on the American blog whose owner has started this project where she fills a jar and decorates it and leaves it somewhere for someone to find. It's like a RAK really. I think it's such a lovely idea, so I had a go yesterday. On Fri evening I filled my jar with a Yankee candle tea light, a hand creme sample, a butterfly badge, a smal flower soap, a poem by PB Shelley and some butterfly confetti. I added a bow and ribbon and a gift tag and left it on a wall in Whitby, yesterday. I hope it makes someone smile.
Looking forward to the Easter break, nice short week next week, so time for crafting, friends and fresh air.
Catcha later.

Sew what

2011-04-16T10:48:00.000-07:00

I don't have a sewing machine and it really peeves me that I can't get that great look on my cards. I do have a WR MK sewing thingy and it works well but is time consuming to hand sew. I bought this weeks ago in the Works and was sceptical about its usefulness, but at £4.99, what the hell!

Anyway, added some batteries last night and gave it a go. And it works. Just did a basic square card but I am really chuffed.

This is made from Papermania element toppers and Honey and Hugs paper, finished with Craftwork Cards sentiment circle.

Off to do some leapblogging now courtesy of Redrottie on Do crafts.
Have a good Saturday evening folks. Catcha later

The Kraft

2011-04-13T23:18:00.000-07:00

A bit late this week for Polka Doodles, 2 reasons: very busy and it's a difficult sketch about mixing up the layers. I had to study it and number it. I bought a few goodies at the weekend from Paperchase and Accessorize including some Kraft wrapping paper, gorgeous ribbon and some Britannia ribbons to make paper chains. Nikky was also promoting Double sprinkle of Kraft on TV, which got me in the frame of mind to combine the two.
So I have used the wrapping paper, a Papermania flower topper and some of the lovely teal ribbon. I also used my new Tonic flower punches (if Kirsty Wiseman recommends, then I have to have) to do the final layer. No Polka Doddles products but Polka Doodles inspired.

Have a good day. Catcha later

There but for the grace of God...

2011-04-10T21:58:00.000-07:00

My blog clock isn't right, it's 5.35 on Monday morning and it doesn't take a genius to work out that this blogger couldn't sleep. I can usually sleep for England but it was a strange day yesterday. I am also a craft blogger, I don't use this as a way of purging my thoughts or feelings as such and keep personal facts very basic. I admit I don't really understand why people find it an outlet, but today I think I do . Yesterday was a glorious day, it was so warm and sunny, me and the OH decided to go out somewhere, wander, go for a drink etc. We mumbled on about the garden, interactions with people, normal stuff when my hub got a call from a friend to say another friend's daughter (28 yrs old and recently married) had been diagnosed with cancer and it is advanced. She is starting the battle of all battles and all day we thought about her nad her family, these lovely people who don't deserve this. Still we enjoyed our day in the sun and it was tinged with releif that we are OK. I just felt how important it is to enjoy even the briefest of moments with loved ones and appreciate even the smallest things. So this morning I was awake, because the bird who sings very loudly and has been provoking me into buying a catapult, was giving it full lungs at 4.45 and my husband was going to shut the window, but I thought I'd listen to it insead, how beautiful it is and how it heralds the end of a long night for some people and a new day, they might just relish.
Anyway, this leads me back to crafting. The first card is for Less is more and is all about the sentiment. It's made from Squiggly ink stamps from Paper Artsy and it does mean something, in the light of yesterday.Watercoloured instead of Promarkering as I wanted it to look naive and not too elegant.

And this one is for the Secret crafter Saturday challenge: feathered friends (very apt this morning) It's Edwardian Lady paper and rub ons and it's a small very plain design ( very American, they don't seem to go ott but go with basic class design. I didn't want anything too frilly or cute for this one.

Anyway, I'm going to have a cuppa.
To all of you out there who are facing a battle or are concerned about loved ones, I truly thought about you today as the sun comes up, even thought I don't know you.
I am getting soft: catcha later

Time to play

2011-04-09T09:28:00.000-07:00

Today I decided to play, just mix it up and get out some inks and paints and experiment. I had bought some Diane Reavely acrylics and the alcohol inks haven't seen the light of day for ages. So this is the result:

The large peg is painted with pink and green acrylic from Art from the Heart. I added Polka Doodles Kraft Papers from their new CD rom and then some pieces from La Paperie scrapbooking company. I covered the clock face in Glossy Accents and wrapped some bakers twine around the peg and added a button. I have magnetised the bag so it can go on the fridge. I will enter this in the Allsorts challenge blog, even though it might not be acceptable. It has not to be square, but it aint a card.(Not a good photo, it's much bolder)
The photo frame was from the pound shop, so I alcohol inked it and added a Prima pear swirl ,a metal butterfly and a vellum heart. It'll go in the little treasures box for my Macmillan fayre in July.
It's a gorgeous day so me and niece no 2 have been to the garden centre. It has a craft shop too, so I bought some Tonic floral punches and a few craft necessities. We had pop and chocolate torte too. I bought Lacey a strawberry plant so the OH can teach her to nurture things.
I am now going to have a glass of wine in the garden.
Catcha later

Haberdashery

2011-04-04T23:15:00.000-07:00

Another early start for me. This ones for 3 challenges. Little Claire's monthly Spring challenge and Stamptacular's weekly buttons, bling, blooms and Crafters Companion aqua and brown.

The colour palette is brown and aqua although I have opted for a distressed look. The papers are Polka Doodles and Basic Grey mounted onto craft card. I have added American crafts floral rub ons and a Polka Doodles label. Bling has been added to centres. The stamp is a Little Claire's blossom border coloured with pro markers. Then I have embellished with ribbon, prima flowers, misc punched flowers, buttons and a gorgeous crotcheted flower. Hope you like.
Catcha later.

Floribunda

2011-04-03T23:14:00.000-07:00

Awake and about early, do some blogging before work. I managed to get a few cards done over the weekend, which is a real achievement, believe me. My heads full of ideas for some girlie cards and I've even done a boys football card. I must've been inspired. Still I've got the beginnings of a cold so I can imagine I'll not be in the mood to do much more this week. This card is for Allsorts Bloomin Blossoms and PolkaDoodles, no backing papers. This was hard as I usually start my card off with the backing paper. I couldn't decide whether to keep it simple, make a BP or just spit my dummy out and cover the card. It was option 3 for me this time.

Bold or what? I wanted the stamp to not be the main feature as I wanted her (Georgia, by Little Claire, to have successfully cultivated the big blooms (from Polka Doodles new CD) and be tending to her newer shoots. It's an easel card on a Kraft card from Papermnia and I've split the backpiece into 3 to give it more interest. Check out Polka Doodles, I'll say no more but the papers are marvellous, distressed for you already and work brilliantly on Kraft card, not yet shown on C and C either!!!
Stuck with pink and brown and a touch of bakers twine.
It's a lovely morning so the Monday morning feeling's not so bad.
Catcha later

Inspired

2011-04-03T10:17:00.000-07:00

Some challenges are what they say they are, they are a real challenge, and some just make you get in the stash and hunt for something you remember getting but in the dim and distant past. That's what happened with Less is more this week. I had the ideas but had to search for the stuff. I did 2 cards for this one (it won't happen very often) but I found what I was looking for when number 2 niece came across something else I'd bought and forgotten about. So here goes:

This is on really textured white card and is made with Penny Black stickeroos.

And Lacey found my Crafty Individuals Acetates, which I have had for ages. She loved this red image.
These are for Less is More.
Catcha later
.

A breakthrough

2011-04-03T01:47:00.000-07:00

No cards today, or even this week. I actually had to get down to business and make some cards. Had orders for 2 Mothers day and 3 Easter. It was also niece number 1's birthday on Monday so I did this.

I made a horrendous mess in the kitchen but really enjoyed a bit of baking, and testing the cakes as I went along. She was pleased with them and they went with the pink wall hanging I also made for her. Anyway: the breakthrough: my brother's ex and niece number 3's Mam has offered to sell some of my cards in her little cafe. She focuses on home made foods for the community and has offered to display some cards to sell on my behalf. No profit obviously as we crafters do spend more on stash than we'll ever make by selling, but I am so pleased. It'll fund some of my charity cards too. She also offered to display my cupcakes and take orders but I'd have to do a food hygiene certificate and I wouldn't have time to keep making them. Still for me it's all about handmade and the importance of skills like this so I'm feeling a sense of victory for the small amateur crafters out there! I've been doing some blog hopping on Do crafts this morning. I think I am a bit too late for my blog to be considered but I enjoyed looking at the fabulous inspirational blogs out there.
Finally: to those of you who don't have Mum's: a happy memory filled day to you.
Catcha later

Double trouble

2011-03-29T23:29:00.000-07:00

I managed to get 2 cards made last night. I eventually got some time to play with my new Polka Doodles Wonderland CD and stamps. The papers are just beautiful and I'll use them for so many projects. But my first challenge to myself was to try and use them on a Clean and Simple project for this weeks Less is More challenge, which is a sketch. Does the grungy look lend itself to clean and simple: I don't know, it's not my concept, but I just wanted to try and marry 2 of my passions, Less is more challenges and Polka doodles products.

I used 2 of the papers from the CD with an overall blue hue, and I gessoed the edges of the papers as I wanted them to merge together and not have sharp edges. I then coloured them with weathered wood distress ink and a misc blue dauber.I stamped and watercoloured the white rabbit and mounted him on a disc if paper showing the words Curioser and curioser. I stamped these words off the page and added a fancy peel off to look like the rabbit's wach chain.

Card 2 is for the folllowing challenges:
Polka Doodles: stash stamp and Spring
Sketch and stash
Stamptacular

It uses the Wonderland papers again, mounted onto white card, I have stamped the "Queen of hearts" from the Octopode factory and coloured her with pro markers. I added a little crotcheted heart, made by my friends mam, and 3 playing cards. Queenie is a bit scary which is why i think it's more suitable for an adults card (would scare the little girlies) and the colours are springlike and the card celebrates Polka Doodles spring collection launch.
Hell's teeth, need some tea
Catcha later

What a week!

2011-03-27T09:27:00.000-07:00

It's been one of those, you work hard, have plans but achieve nothing. Don't seem to have enough time for anything at the moment and everything just seems very haphazard. i was asked to make some Mothers day cards on Thursday, with very few opportunities to sit down and do any crafting, but have squeezed in a bit time today amongst everything else. I shall probably be talking to those in the know, but need to vent today. So here's my very busy effort. I decide to use some stash decoupage for this one as I fancied doing something other than stamping for a channge.
I also did this one, but different colour ranges this time. For all those lovely Mam's, Mum's and Mom's out there, if you have one, remind her how special she is, and celebrate her presence in your life everyday..

http://allsortschallenge.blogspot.com/

Similar, stash decoupage, paper flowers and gems with punched leaves and a gingham bow.
These are for the allsorts challenge blog:

Catcha later.

Going against the grain

2011-03-23T00:21:00.000-07:00

It's a lovely sunny morning, probably won't last but it helps me wake up. I sometimes need to do the blog stuff this early so I can do all the other stuff when I get in from work. Last night I was uninspired. I got lots of new stuff at Harrogate but have't had a lot of time to sit and stroke it. I did browse my new CD's. The latest Polka doodles on will be great especially when I figure out how to use the alphabets. But when it came to making a card I was thinking about all those pretty pretty ones out there, all working to a similar recipe, you know the one: sweet Tilda type image, or LOTV or Stampavie type, pretty floral paper, pretty paper flowers, a piece of lace across the middle and a doily fitted in somewhere. No disrespect, I love them, make them and got the stamps but they've taken off so much thanks to the talents of Bev Rochester et al., that standards are amazingly high. It's nice to work to a different recipe as such which is why I like this challenge.
So I wanted to add something different into the mix for a change:

So the new items are the stamp (Queen of hearts, from Octopus?), pink organza roses from Mei, sugar dumpling papers from Art from the heart. The sadly neglected are the rub ons from American crafts which are in my scrapbook stash, very sadly neglected these days. The ticket is from Tim Holtz.
This is for the Sketch and Stash challenge
Time for my cereal, catcha later

Oh no, not another man card

2011-03-22T11:58:00.000-07:00

You are absolutely right. They are difficult to do, but to be honest I think it's because they also aren't as appreciated or valued as we might like. I'll buy you a pint often goes down better than I've made you a unique, personalised card. My OH knows how much I love cards. Do I get one? Rarely! Never mind. I did persuade him once that a handmade effort from him would be greatly appreciated and I got one, albeit opening the wrong way, but I do treasure it, for all that.
So here's the entry for this weeks Less is more.

It's some transport stamps by company forgotten, mounted on distressed nesties and over stamped with a little Prima stamp which I also used at the corners. I have stamped the words to exit the nesties as if they were the train tracks. Opted for a cream base this time just for a change. I've been browsing through my new Polka Doodles CD's. The new ones are out but are on C and C this Sat or Sun, so if you like a bit of in ya face stuff too, take a peek.
I'm going to link into the challenge now and have a look at some of the great entries.
Catcha later

Top of the pops

2011-03-20T03:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Sunday everyone. I was going to bemoan the state of my bank balance after the trip to Harrogate yesterday but ther's no good crying over spilt milk, right? I got some lovely stash mainly stamps and a few odds and ends including a chipboard skull to decorate. Will upload the finished result at some point. Lovely Lili stamps, and the new Polka Doodles Alice in Wonderland CD and stamps and some lush stuff from Little Claire. Me and Joanie had a great day catching up and planning some makes for the fair in July. Joan's been making some hair slides and puppet cards and her lovely Mam has made me some crotcheted flowers to use on my cards. They aren't cheap to buy. Saw lots of the TV faces and showed the lovely Nikky from Polka Doodles my winning challenge entry this week. They've got a great new resource CD out, haven't had time to browse it yet. Great stalls, and it was packed to the rafters with great things. But this is my top of the pops for great welcoming stalls.
Art from the Heart: super hip stuff and great people including the uber talented Diane Reavely
Little Claire's, lovely people and range of goodies
Polka Doodles: who else. Nikky was very busy but still chatted to individuals
and finally and top of the pops was Sheena. She had time for everyone, never stopped demonstrating and dropping in little anecdotes and truly encouraging crafters to believe in their abilities. She demo'd some leaf painting for me and then gave me it as a souvenir. Lovely lady.

Catcha later

My sister's keeper

2011-03-18T13:36:00.000-07:00

Have you seen that damn film. I watched it tonight ,and cried until I gave myself a headache and my eyes are really scary. If you haven't seen it, do NOT watch it. I had a good day until then. I came first in the Polka Doodles week 9 challenge. I''m so chuffed and will see all their new goodies at Harrogate tomorrow.
Anyway back to that film: it's about family relationships when the eldest child gets cancer. It's Hollywooded up but still quite sensitively done. But it did make me think about memories and how comforting they can be and I have decided to make my glitter globes (from Home bargains) into memory globes for the fair in July (in aid of Macmillan) The glittery stuff will be fond memories of loved ones. It might be a bit soft but then again it might just capture someones imagination. I've been doing a few bits and pieces including notebooks, post it note holders and I've bought a cheap wooden heart to try and alter: so will definitely be visiting the Art from the Heart stall tomorrow. I've done a few cards and bought some union jack wrapping paper to decorate the table, and this is still 3 months away.

I did these for the Do crafts fundraiser for Cancer research, so need to find out my local shop. It's amazing how much they raise and it costs mnimal funds to do just a few. So go on have a go!
I am going to find something funny to watch on TV now and see if I have some cucumber in the fridge to soothe my red eyes.

Catcha later

Have a laff at my gaff

2011-03-13T05:38:00.000-07:00

Aw man, I think I need to take a break. I was so excited about having some freetime this weekend and doing more crafting than usual, my brain has gone into meltdown I had my idea for the Less is More challenge this week: Off the page. Got up early and got started. I was quite pleased with the outcome:

So can you spot the gaffe. Poodles smelling one anothers bottoms or near enough. Ugh! So you all have permission to have a laugh and I challenge you all to think of a time, you've made a bit of a mistake in your card making, especially embarrassing ones: go on confess!
I'm still entering this as an example of what not to do with dog stamps (from Do Crafts) , Martha Stewart stamps and Promarkers.

Cards for Mothers day

2011-03-13T01:47:00.000-08:00

This is often a bit too poignant for me and generally I don't make them.

The theme is Mothers day for the Crafts on the net March challenge and Flowers for this months Little Claire challenge (http://littleclairesdesigns.blogspot.com/2011/03/challenge-2-flowers.html ). It doesn't get any easier even after almost 23 years for this 47 year old not having a mother to share her grown up years with. My Mam died just as I was settling into a job and enjoying my single years. I was just enjoying the shopping trips with her, coffee in some nice cafes and generally loving her company, when she left us. You get on with it, don't you, but at this time of year I should be looking forward to taking her out for lunch and treating her really well. The grief fades but the regrets don't. So to all you people who have all lost a Mum, I hope you don't find making Mothers day cards too difficult.
Saying that, Crafts on the Net has recognised this and has expanded the theme to incorporate cards for lovely ladies as well as Mum's which I think is great. I have made this for any girl/lady to send to any other important lady in their lives to let them know how much they mean. The Little Claire theme is flowers which opens up such a world of possibility.
This is made with Do crafts Kraft card and have added some red polka dot backing paper. I used a Little Claire peel off (too often a neglected craft item I think) and coloured it with pro markers and decoupaged the pots. Framed in Mirri and texturised so the frame is not smooth.
The main flower and leaves are made with a Little Claire die, which I use such a lot and I have punched others and added a few punched leaves. Corners are punched with my new silhouette corner punch from Do Crafts. I'm an early bird this morning and have taped the Tudors and some Clarity stamping, so coffee time it is and stuff the ironing!
Catcha later.

Doodle Poodle

2011-03-12T06:07:00.000-08:00

I was inundated with happy memories when I was making this card for the Polka Doodles challenge this week. (Black and white plus one other colour). It reminded me of an evening in Caen ( I lived there as a student studying French) This evening me and some friends went into a small Creperie in the old town for some liquid refreshment and a bite to eat. It was a tiny place and you could just squeeze through the door when you were literally confronted by a small bar. On this bar was seated a Pink male poodle with buck teeth. It was the funniest and campest dog I have ever seen, but it was so lovely and clearly one of the attractions in addition to the cosy ambience. So this is my tribute to Le Poodle.

It was made with some misc black and white paper (think it's Making Memories), the border and the sentiment label are Polka Doodles. The frame is from Deb's crafty diecuts, and I stamped the sentiment with Martha Stewart alphabet stamps. The dog looks like such a snob. The stamp is from the latest Do Crafts pampered pets and I just love them even though I don't usually opt for pets on my cards. My hubby thinks I'm barking, well they'll just never understand the craft!
Catcha later.
For Polka Doodles: http://polkadoodle.blogspot.com/

Thank crunchy it's Friday

2011-03-11T03:16:00.000-08:00

Oooooh day off today. Time to do some catch up. I know housework might not be the most inspiring thing but I've been up since 6.30, done the bedroom, kitchen (including cleaning the Oven) washed and hoovered and dusted. At least it's got me motivated. I am going to have a ride out this afternoon and see if there are any new Do crafts products around, I'm after the vine corner punch as I think it will be so versatile. I made this card last night, to suit a good luck situation for a young lady, eg leaving school, doing exams, off to uni or college. http://stamptacularsundaychallenge.blogspot.com/ the Stamptacular Sunday challenge

It's Nitwit paper(bought at Harrogate last Sept), a bought die cut frame (from the Nissan craft show, Ii think it's Debs Dies), my new Debbie Moore fairy stamps,an EK success punch (from the Crafty Nook), a felt bird sticker (from the Works)and on old oddment of ric rac in the bottom of my ribbon drawer. Card candy (from Craftwork cards )and gems for embellishment (from YAY the pound shop). I saved the leaves from the punch and glitter glued them because I wanted the fairy to be wistful, thinking about the future. The label and quote is Polka Doodles. Hope you like. Today other than crafting, I am going to attend to my greys, their time is over and I am going to tidy my craft shelves and hopefully discover more stuff festering somewhere.
Also I am co winner of the Feb challenge on crafts on the Net, which is linked to Practical Publishing. The winners are voted for by members and there are some great prizes from the magazine. Please have a look it's a friendly place

Catcha later

The early bird

2011-03-08T23:21:00.000-08:00

OMG, it's just turned 7am and I am blogging. I must admit I am finding it increasingly difficult to blog and craft and comment and pass on blog awards. I am going to do a rethink at the weekend, and work out my priorities. I am doing this now as I really want to get this card on for the Polka Doodles challenge because it will always be one of my priorities because their products are so good.
Oh, my eyes aren't even working properly and I am trying to watch QVC crafting, drink tea and juggle this laptop at the same time.

So, the card. It has to contain 3 handmade, not shop bought flowers. I have used Polka Doodles papers from Sugar Birdies and Sundae of Seasons. I enlarged the tree image and simply cut it out and added it to the card. I made 3 flowers with the papers (printed on both sides) with my HOTP templates and added them to the trees. Glitter glue, card candy and a MIC ladybird to finish this off. It's bold and I hope very "Polka Doodles".
Time for breakfast
Catcha later

Teenage rampage

2011-03-07T10:54:00.000-08:00

This card is for the Allsorts challenge. Having an almost teenage niece, I like to think I have an idea what they like. They like me to back them up when their mother says no and attempt to change her decision on things, like having an expensive bag for school! Now this Auntie would have just given in an bought her it if her mother (my sis) wouldn't, but it's now out of production. Whew family crisis averted. Famous for moods, teenagers that is I think the Gorjuss girls bridge the gap between cute and slightly moody, so that's what I chose.
It's Gorjuss decoupage, with a Sissix hello Kitty heart die cut, plus embellishments. Sorted for those liitle madams out there!

I also added some dewdrops in moody grey and some flowers from Wild orchid crafts. I'm hoping it's on trend so will get Georgia's opinino at some point, which will probably be Ugh! she's got no mouth.
I'm off to watch a scary film and get over my lack of weight loss this week. No more treats!
Catcha later

Pastels...it's a bit thin

2011-03-06T10:12:00.000-08:00

I've been in the huff. Twice I've typed out my post and twice Internet explorer has stopped working and it hasn't saved. So this time I'm saving as I go. Haven't been to blogland much this week, I am sometimes spending more time blogging and blog browsing than I am actually pursuing the craft, I can see it's going to be a bit of a balancing act.
The challenge for this week on Less is More, is pastels. I started out with good intentions but it is on the borderline I think for meeting the challenge rules. http://simplylessismoore.blogspot.com/

I started with pastel friendly plastic, in pinks,blues and lavender and heated it, then ran my tweezers through it. But that's when the black base starts to show!!!!So it's bolder than you would expect pastels to be. I added a couple of pastel gems and some punched hearts in pastel shade, covered with Glossy accents and stuck into the palstic before it dried. I filled in the gaps between some of the pieces with crystal glitter and added a teeny peel off. The background is just stippled lavener acrylic.
I did worry about it not meeting the rules but to be honest it made me think about my reasons for entering. I'm not in it to win it, I'm in it to participate in the lovely little community that's building, and to learn from other crafters, and to give and receive some constructive feedback and generally just to pick up hints and tips.
So there it is, I'm still putting this one in, I'll still enjoy looking at the other entries, making comments and reading the comments I get in return.
Went to Durham yesterday and they had some birds of prey in the market square. They were glorious, 2 owls, an eagle and a hawk. Really beautiful. Lacey had her photo taken with the cream owl and didn't even panic when it started flapping it's wings.
Got my Amazon delivery of the Frida Kahlo diary and paintings, plus the film Frida starring Selma Hayek. She was an amazing artist with a fascinating life. I am in awe.
Off to watch a bit C and C
Got a blog award yesterday from Lis. Please take a look at her fab blog . http://mycraftblogumentary.blogspot.com/
3 things about me: I studied French and English Literature at university. I have trained as a reflexologist. I am addicted to chocolate.
I will be passing on the award shortly once I have browsed through my fellow bloggers sidebars.
Catcha later.

Sometimes it gets sad.

2011-02-27T07:02:00.000-08:00

My entry for the Less is more 3 squares challenge this week, just sort of developped. I had the basic idea of where to place the squares,and I wanted some punched flowers and it just ended up as a sympathy card.

So sorry that the theme's not exactly inspiring, but sometimes I find these cards the most challenging of all because the situation they are designed for is so emotionally charged. My apologies if this lowers your mood, people but it's still about creating something which will mean something to the receipent. As I'm writing this I am beginning to feel that the impression of this post will be too gloomy. Anyway: It's 2 small squares and a larger one, embossed with a CB folder. The text and stamp are from American crafts and the flowers are punched and Pebeo dimensional paint added to the centres. The squares are distressed with milled lavender ink.
On a more cheery note. Went to the craft fair, it wasn't worth the entry fee and it appears to attract less interest every time, but like a good crafter I sniffed out a few things I really didn't need: few stamps and some nesting dies, and some die cuts in shapes I would not invest in the die for, but will have a go at the dies (eg umbrella). The one good thing, Debbie Moore and Flower Soft were there with very professional stands.
I've got to go out tonight and really can't be bothered as it's cold and windy, but a girl's got to make the effort I suppose
Catcha later

Loves the nieces to pieces

2011-02-26T08:31:00.000-08:00

It's 2 of my nieces birthdays in March. Abi is 7 and Georgia is 13. I wanted to make an alternative to a birthday card for them, so created these. My first attempt at altering!

I found these wall hangings in Home bargains for 99p. They are MDF with the most awful tropical pictures on them but they are nice and square so would be easy to alter/cover. I used some plastic Hello Kitty stickers for Abi's and some ready made large embellishments for Goergia's also bought in one of the bargain stores. I added Craftwork card and Pink Petticoat Papers, a few embellishments and their names. I am pleased with them and they probably cost about £2.50 to make. They look so pretty.
I've had some time to craft today, managed to make a couple of ATC's and am now covered with green alcohol ink. I decided to have a go at vintage which isn't my style, and still isn't after todays efforts. Still it was fun to play. I also made a couple of post it note holders for the fair in July. More on that another time. Tomorrow there's a craft fair at Washington, so I'll do a bit browsing. Debbie Moore was there last year so I am hoping she'll be demonstrating again. Happy Saturday folks, hope you aren't on a diet and can enjoy a glass of wine and some chocolate.
Catcha later.

Blog award

2011-02-25T11:44:00.000-08:00

Just a quickie. Got 2 this week. It'll take me a while to get round to doing the first one as there's a lot of folk to forward on to. But my thanks to Ni, my fellow newbie to blogging. Take a look at her cards http://nispapercraftingplace.blogspot.com/2011/02/wow-blog-awards-x-2-d.html
I do like the idea of bringing some blogs to the attention of fellow crafters, so here goes: I would like to offer the award to
Crafty Sam: http://craftysams.blogspot.com/
Jackied : http://cardsbyjacki.blogspot.com/

My tribute to Terry's

2011-02-24T11:15:00.000-08:00

Polka doodles chocolate challenge:

As a self confessed chocoholic, I thought I'd find this one easy, but how to pay homage to the smooth silky calorie laden stuff? I struggled, nothing was good enough, nothing even came close. However, it did set the mind racing and the taste buds tingling. Memories came flooding back. As a child, the grown ups always got the boxes of chocs, the Dairy Box, Milk Tray and Black Magic. I always coveted the golden booty that was Terry's All Gold. If you were lucky enough to get a choice, I would always go for the Lime flavoured one that looked as though it was in a little pouch, tied with a choccy chord. So there it was, my decoupage, called chocolate girl was teamed with a green contrast and chocolate coloured paper and trims. It was finished off with a huge chocolate button, which is very glossy (you can't tell from the photo. Papers are Polka doodles and Craftwork cards, don't know who the decoupage comes from, and the candy is also from Craftwork cards. Happy chocolate dreams.
Catcha later

Less is more:Spring

2011-02-19T10:35:00.000-08:00

Like a fool I decide to set myself a challenge within a challenge for this weeks test. I did not want to use anything botanical to symbolise spring. Yeah right! I got out the box of stamps, browsed through them for ages, got nicely surprised at how many I have and have not used and just was not inspired. Feeling very frustrated I discovered some little Polka Doodles freebies on one of this weeks magazines and guess what? I've used a TREE. How very botanical!
I wanted something a bit cutesie though and wanted to focus on something else springlike other than the advent of spring flowers. So this little bird is in his tree at the end of a long winter, ready to build his nest. This is what spring signifies to me especially when the birds return to the gardens and start nesting.

I didn't want a detailed sentiment so added congratulations so the card will be suitable for some sort of good news, baby etc. It's on an embossed card from Papermania and mounted onto a nestie and glittered around the edge.
It's Saturday night, time for a nice chilled Prosecco.
Catcha later
http://simplylessismoore.blogspot.com/

Yeuch! Man cards

2011-02-18T12:28:00.000-08:00

Why are they so difficult? other than football or drinking images I really struggle with these. However, Polka Doodles to the rescue once again. I used my lovely Sugar Birdies CD rom for this one, for my stepson.

So the lads go out for a drink and one of them (whose birthday it might be) gets a bit wobbly whilst having a HOOT. All Polka doodles, all lovely papers and cute owls. Man card in a tick.
This week I bought some American Crafts sentiment stamps. They've got lovely little flourishes and labels with them. I also got the Martha Stewart stamp set where you just have loads of alphabets to use in circles/lines. Can't wait to have a go with these.
Busy thinking about a card for a colleague about to become a grandma for the first time, so that's my goal this weekend.
I'm off for some tea and reading now. Haven't bothered with a book for ages but have just finished the Winter Ghosts by Kate Mosse which is so beautifully emotional, about grief and coming to terms with the past, which can so affect the present. Am now reading The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver which is set in Mexico and is about a guy who works for Frida Kahlo and her husband. If you don't know who Frida Kahlo is, google her and get a real look at her artwork. She's a fascinating artist. I do have to remind myself sometimes about my love of literature and make some time for it in between making cards!
Catcha later.

Polka Doodles:

2011-02-14T12:22:00.000-08:00

Need to upload this, as will not be around for a couple of days. I am so tired today, just can't seem to get away from the need for some sleep,so will have to have an early night. But firstly a welcome to my new follower and a thank you to all the lovely do crafts forum members for their comments on Samantha's goblins, both on here and in the gallery. I am overwhelmed, honestly.

So this card is in honour of Mr Bowie's "Fashion" (I know the love link's a bit thin, but lets face it we all love and lust after clothes) and gave me an opportunity once again to use Sundae of Seasons CD, cutting out the sewing related images, decoupaging some and adding buttons,fibres and American crafts glitterations. I also added some real pins and could've quite easily called it Needles and Pins (oh yes I saw her today, I saw her face, it was a face I loved etc), but can't remember who sang it. It's a stepper type card and I'll have to make a box for it because it's over 8 by 8.
I also received my Polka Doodles prize, which was the latest Sugar Birdies CD and have browsed it and can't wait to make use of it.
Off to have a look at some great entries and make a few comments.
Catcha later

Less is more challenge 2

2011-02-13T02:13:00.000-08:00

I have to do some blogging now as I am working away for a couple of days next week. No blogs, no crafting, not even any craft shops. I've enjoyed some crafting this weekend and had a few cards to make for friends, including some "man" cards. Ugh! after all these years I still struggle to be inspired, but I will post them later. I have had some great comments on Samantha's Goblins (thanks to all of you who took the time to comment) and welcome to my new followers; glad to meet you and I will have a look at your blogs too.
One of my shorter term objectives is to take better pics of my cards. My sis says the photos don't do them justice and the one below is a case in point, I couldn't get is right, so I beg the use of your creative imagination.

So folks: this is a funny shape cut out so I could brayer in the background. I used Adirondack Latte and Cappuchino for this and I wanted to see a definition of layer in the colour as we dont have it with the materials. I stamped Spring is in the air at the bottom of th image (it's a teeny set of stamps I got for ATC's and I don't have the packaging) and I have stamped a Kars flower along the bottom. The main image is Pansies by Art Kure.
What I love about this challenge was that it made me play with stamps and inks I hadn't even looked at in ages. I'd had the ArtKure one for years, bought it in Hexham and had never used it.
This is for the lovely Less is more challenge
I'm off to watch Barbara Gray now, and get inspired, I know I will.
Catcha later

Samantha's Goblins

2011-02-12T06:10:00.000-08:00

This is Samantha, my 27 year old step daughter. As you may tell, she has Down's syndrome. I am featuring her on my craft blog, because Samantha participates in all sorts of activities, including crafting, and i thought it might be interesting for you to know a little about her. She has made beautiful Christmas cake, a bird house, has done gardening and of course made cards. Whilst the cards are not spectacular, she clearly loves being creative.

Samantha loves to write and draw. We have laughed at her drawings and the way she puts her perceptions of us onto paper because they look like goblins with hairy ears, three eyes and huge belly buttons, but over the years she has always retained this peculiar style. So I thought I would combine her designs with my card making to produce some cards for her. She'll enjoy seeing her pictures (which are not too scary, she wasn't drawing to request this time)and I would love to pass on your comments to her.

I'll add some of the more scary ones as they are produced, when she's in the artistic frame of mind.
Catcha later

What a challenge

2011-02-11T01:55:00.000-08:00

I found this challenge by chance last night when browsing a few lovely inspirational blogs. It's just new and is based around a keeping it simple approach which is the exact opposite of my pile it all on tendency. I thought I'd give it a go, and another and another after ripping everything up. It's sooo difficult, and I realised why. I focused too much on what I perceived as limitations... but actually they aren't limitations, it's a much more liberating process, and this is confirmed by the amazing range of creations in the entry section. I enjoyed being disciplined and focusing on my elements a lot more and how a card is structured. It's a blog I'll have to follow and I know I'll find it inspirational. I did come to it late, so next time will ensure I add some comments to my fellow crafters blogs as well as just looking.
This is just such a wonderful idea for a challenge and the comments from the founders appear to be really constructive, and that's great.

It's made using Heidi Grace flourish stamps, a Little Claire Die cut petals and centre from on old French play book (my old uni stuff comes in handy, poor old Racine!!!!) and a gem. I added a few teeny peel offs to make it a Get well card. Easy? Not!
Catcha later

Oozing lurve

2011-02-08T05:23:00.000-08:00

Got a day off today as the car is in for a service and MOT, bad thing is that it'll cost plenty of my pennies. But i got up early and watched the first episode of Marchlands on ITV player. Nice n spooky. I've also taped that new series called Bedlam, which is also supernaturally themed. Did a bit crafting and just generally chilled, which is nice for a change. it also gives me some time to enter blogland and catch up on some other blogs. Loved Kirsty Wiseman's picks of the Craft show in LA, looks like even more new stuff to tempt the poor crafter. Apparantly cameos are "in". May have to break out the Joanna Sheen Dancing with Shadows.
Anyway, back to business. This is my entry for this weeks Polka Doodles challenges with a hearts theme. It's a simple one but I needed a cutting out fix!

The papers, hearts and basket are from Sundae of Seasons and Papercraft boutique. I have glittered some and dribbled it down the card, hence the ooziness. I've added rubbery dimensional paint to others, a button and twine and a ready designed border. The sticker is by Sue Dreamer. This basket full of lurve is for all those fellow crafters out there who put their time and energy into raising funds for vulnerable folks. Crafters are ultimately kind.

The best laid plans

2011-02-06T03:30:00.000-08:00

I was going to craft all day Saturday but it didn't go to plan. Had a call from my sister, could my little niece please come for the afternoon. So made butterfly cakes and cookies instead. Today I thought I'd sneak some crafting in between preparing dinner and housework, only to find my stepdaughter at my desk, making cards. So it's blogland for me! This is one I did have time to make on Friday evening.

It's a Crafters Companion Popcorn stamp, on nesties which are distressed with Worn Lipstick ink. I have used Pink Petticoat lush papers and Paula Pascual stamps for the greeting. The floral embellishment includes elements from Wild Orchid crafts and the charm is from The Works. I'll enter this one in the CC challenge for Feb.
I've been tidying as everything is getting so disorganised and messy. I've done the peel offs and I bought in Home Bargains, a big glass jar and a storage box: so these have been used for buttons and pro markers respectively. The buttons looks so pretty on display. The next task is the drawer full of ribbons, I've opened it and then closed it again quickly, before they escape!
Catcha later

Trouble keeping up

2011-02-02T13:14:00.000-08:00

It's not easy making the time to add posts. It's Wednesday and once I've uploaded this I have no other cards to put on my blog. I have ideas though and some challenges set by a friend: so I'll try and get my act together on Friday evening.
This is a card I made with my new Paula Pascual stamps. Only £8.00 from QVC for 2 sets. I think they'll be so useful. Stamped various sizes and combined these with my Mins Eye papers and a Martha punch. It's contrasted with left over brown card form a roll of wrapping paper.
My friend is organising a fun day in July in aid of Macmillan and has asked if I would like a stall. So I've said yes. It'll be my first opportunity along with another friend to get some cards in the public domain. I'll need to plan and not do too many cards. All of this in aid of a good cause too.

Been shopping.

2011-01-30T05:56:00.000-08:00

You know, crafter type shopping. Went for some peel offs with "christening" on, came back with 2 sets of stamps, 6 metres of ribbon, Gorjuss decoupage, Forever Friends decoupage and a |Tim Holtz paper distresser. My demonstration of total lack of control puts my chocolate addiction into perspective. I can believe it or not say no to chocolate. But crafy bargains? It was the remains of the Hobbycraft sale and they still have some great reductions . No pictures today though I am too busy watching TV as we've been without Sky for a couple of days so no Create and Craft ( missed the latest Polka Doodles) and no craft programmes in my planner.

Catcha later

New forum

2011-01-29T08:39:00.000-08:00

I joined Crafts on the net yesterday, why? when I hardly have time to keep up with Do crafts and Craft bubble. It is different though, especially the monthly challenge where members vote for the winners.
This is the card I entered.

I decided to have a go at the Hougie and follow the guidance for a stepper card. I was easy I must admit but I had to focus on the card not slipping. Still not keen on that slippy plastic. I got the decoupage at Dainty Toys, it a bit of a cross between invertage and decoupage. Cute image, I also bought the "chocolate girl" I might as well use chocolate on cards as I'm back on the diet!!! I kept the maroon and green theme going with the ribbon and card for matting and layering. The ever useful Paula Pascual stamps were used for the greeting and the flowers are what remains of an old pack of foam stickers. Obligatory orange card candy to contrast. Hope you like.
Catcha later.

Our house...in the middle of our street

2011-01-27T11:08:00.000-08:00

I was humming that tune whilst I was making this card. Madness in more ways than 1.

Much as Polka Doodles always fills my head with colour and contrast I opted for only 1 main colour on this one. I wanted to play with my squidgy tube of acrylic paint which has been hidden away for many moons (since I was tempted to play with canvass....in my dreams!) So I stamped the gorgeous residences (masking as appropriate) and painted in the doors and windows with the acrylic. I added titchy black gems for the handles. I then stamped 2 houses on acetate, stippled the gold acrylic on the back and then put it in a scalloped frame.
My Paula Pascual flower stamps came today. I now have a burning need to buy circular punches to fit the stamps, but will use nesties and what I have already to save money. But I can see it happening. Looks like we're of to Harrogate in March if there's enough to fill a mini bus otherwise I'll have to break out the Satnav.
I have no plans for Saturday so am going to spend at least half a day playing.
Catcha later

Carnation ribbons

2011-01-26T10:58:00.000-08:00

Or should that be ribbon carnations. I must admit I bought them with a view to working out whether I could make them. It seems to be an emerging trend to have quite dense ribbon blooms on cards at the moment and not just paper ones. So I used some freebies from one of the mags: think it was the lovely Quick cards....and it was quite simple. I knotted some satin ribbon and put the carnations in between the knots, and associated them with an oriental design as carnations are popular in all sorts of oriental art work. It's very basic, but sometimes it's nice to do a quick and easy. I think the nieces would like it.
Got a new follower today: so pleased to have you following Hyper Ni. I emailed you but this is just a more public thank you.
I am going to use this in the Ribbon Girl challenge, even though the other entries seem a little more complicated and sophisticated ,Hey Ho!
Catcha later

Word therapy

2011-01-24T11:27:00.000-08:00

I was inspired when I saw the latest challenge on Wild Orchid crafts, as it was simply about the sentiment. I started making cards because I wrote a poem and drew a picture of a friend who over indulged in alcohol one night and left the contents of his stomach in someone's garden. I then did a card with a drawing and poem for someone going to serve in Iraq...and the rest is history. I looked to card making initially as a way of conveying a message, I had a stamp made called Word therapy, and I love trying to find the words to suit the recipient's situation or even write something myself ( this usually means comic verse). It puts my English degree to good use, trying to find appropriate sentiments, particularly for sympathy cards. We sometimes forget the words, but they can be as important if not more so than the card, with no disrespect to the effort that goes into making the card. So this is the card I made:

It's Bo Bunny paper, nesties and Polka Doodles sentiments. The main die is a Hello Kitty heart. The flowers are from my collection from Wild Orchid crafts. Added a few peel off corners, pink floral peel offs and some sequins and confetti.
This is for the Wild Orchid challenge blog:http://www.wildorchidchallenge.blogspot/

More Pizza than Pie

2011-01-22T03:07:00.000-08:00

I just knew it. I return to work and find it so difficult to get time for crafting. I managed it before I had a break so I think I've just been spoiled having so much extra free time. Today I browsed some blogs and found that I have won my first ever challenge blog entry, with Polka Doodles. I can't explain my excitement, I'm feeling soooo happy today. It's so great as I just love their products and I can't wait for my Blinkie.
This is my next challenge entry: it was to follow a sketch and make a card in red, white and blue suitable for UK/USA. My idea was to use pies from the Sundae CD and have used an American Pie (pumpkin) and a UK pie (apple) In addition to this I would use thanks as the sentiment in basic format but also add the word GIVE to tie it in with Thanksgiving. However, I think it's more Pizza than Pie with all the toppings, but I like Pizza.

It's made with papers and coloured and B&W stampies from the CD. I pleated a border with added Martha punch, die cut some hearts and added Sue Dreamer rub on letters and used gingham to look like american country style. My favourite thing of the mo is Pebeo touch dimensional paint for the dots as they feel all rubbery. Oooooh! Shiver.
I'm a crafty fired up now, so will make sure I used my weekend appropriately. By the way, I'm not too pleased with the Hougie, it's made with slippy plastic so my card moves when I'm scoring it. Wish I'd got the Martha Stewart one.
Catcha later, I'm off to Durham for a relaxing mooch around Waterstones and some dinner.

Bit of a "Do"

2011-01-16T09:08:00.000-08:00

Have some of the new Do crafts birdy goodies. I have the lovely tree stamps and some of the complementary papers. I think I'll get some real use out of these.

The tree is stamped onto nestie and distressed, coloured with pencils and then highlighted with some white Pebeo touch, which is my favourite thing at the moment. I've covered the inside with complimentary paper so that the bird shows alongside the sentiment. The little bird is a die from the Girls Paperie. The tree stamp is so pretty and versatile, I need to try it with gems.
It's a sad day for me, I am back to work tomorrow after recovering from my op and I have so enjoyed some me time However one needs money to spend on the craft so it's a cross I shall have to bear. I can see less blogging but am aiming to post at least twice a week.
Catcha later

OTT

2011-01-15T10:18:00.000-08:00

I was having a conversation with my friend yesterday about cards and whether simple is better. I do have a tendency I must admit to want plenty of embellishment on my cards, and I think it's reflected in the cutsie trend at the mo: the one with the cute stamp plus pretty paper plus ribbon plus flowers plus a charm and a sentiment. I admit, I love to see and make these pretty cards,there are some absolute stuuners (people put so much effort into them and they become such keepsakes. On reflection I don't think it's about simple versus detailed, it's more about what you like and what people like to receive, I think for me it's being able to make a card for a person tailored to them, that's what floats my boat as it were, and otherwise for more general cards I like to have a go at techniques whilst bearing in mind, what's hot at the moment.
So this one is a little OTT, I messed with it, changed it, added stuff, took stuff off, but I wanted uber girlie.

It's a Tilda stamp (secretive Tilda) with a mouth drawn in!. Magnolia rose paper, and a magnolia rose made from a Paper Artsy grunge flower die, black magic core card, embossed, MIC roses and a Paula Pascual sentiment. Tilda was Promarkered. It is rather OTT but i thought for a Mam from a child it would me quite sweet. The rose is a bit dimensional so I will have to make a box. It's Saturday night, have a nice tagine on the go and a bottle of wine opened, this will help me enjoy the poor offerings on the TV.
Did see Sheana's show on C and C, the stamps are on my list, especially Busy doing nothing but no more pocket money this month. Oh and I got my Hougie, so looking froward to some crafty play.
Catcha later

Love is

2011-01-14T11:57:00.000-08:00

Sharing your craft space. I have a room converted in the loft. It looks like this:

I have to share it with this:

I could so fill this space but fortunately it forces me to be disciplined. I will not encroach (yet). No crafting today, I've been pottering about Bishop Auckland, met my friend Joan for lunch and had a nice drive home. it was a lovely afternoon, I just enjoyed a bit window shopping, picked up a bit ribbon and lace.
My Hougie board arrived but no one was at home so I have to pick it up at the delivery office tomorrow, really annoyed that it wasn't left at the local post office. Never mind. Excellent customer service from Joanna Sheen though, I shall definitely order from there again.
Catcha later

my nemesis

2011-01-13T07:38:00.000-08:00

For Sherlock Holmes, it's Moriarty: for Harry Potter, it's Voldemort. For me it's oriental cards. I just can't seem to get the style right. And I love to see oriental art work. I have one of Joanna Sheen's CD roms as all the colours would match, and no real hard work, but other than the basic styles, I just couldn't hack it. But I am not a quitter so I go back to the oriental now and again. So this is the result.

I used some oriental scrapbook paper from a QVC kit (think it's American crafts and simply added a Mei flower orchid, bamboo peel offs and a sticker from a local gift shop called Momjii. It's the best I can do given my mental block. What doesn't show well is the mount behind the liitle girl. It's a Paper Artsy grunge flower die cut,from a gold flecked material. It's reflective and makes the card look more luxurious. Still I did like the outcome and will try it again with some of the silver material I also have.
Just ordered a Hougie, to get into more shaped cards. Just waiting for postie now.
Catcha later

Intention versus inspiration

2011-01-12T08:31:00.000-08:00

I got up today with the intention of making a card with my new Gorjuss stamp. It was there, this is what I would do. The trouble is that I had no idea what design or papers to use. So I tried to just find something. This is the result. I was not happy as I just added piece after piece with no real outcome in mind.

It's using some 12x12 I had with corresponding paper at top to make it look like an envelope I added a Prima flower and some paper roses from Wild Orchid crafts. Made some springs from waste paper and added a couple fo embellishments from Cratwork cards and Girls Paperie. I alsoa dded a bit of my latest mini pom pom ribbon. It just doesn't gel for me but isn't bin worthey either.
I watched a bit C and C and browsed a few craft mags, so after lunch tried again, this time with an idea and design in my head, inpired by some cards in the mag. I got out most of what i needed to make the card as opposed to having to seek the next element out. This is the result and I am so much more comfortable with it.

It's K and Co paper, bird and cage die cut, ping and green ribbon (it looks black here) I punched out the flowers and added Pebeo touch to the centres for dimension. The corners are punched with Martha Stewart. It illustrated for me, my creative process. I need to plan and be in the right frame of mind because despite good intentions, I feel happier with the results when I take a more structured approach. Maybe this conflicts with the idea of creativity but it's the way it works for me. I now need to get better photos as these don't capture the colours very well at all
Catcha later

A trip to the Scrapbook shop.

2011-01-11T11:25:00.000-08:00

This is in Durham. It's not somwhere I pass often so today I decided to go and see what their latest stock is like. It's scrapbook focused and has a huge range of papers, but it's also stocking a nice range of stamps, embellishments and Do crafts goodies. I didn't need anything and was just looking for inspiration to get back into the scrapbooking, but some stuff jumped into my basket.

I got some lush Bo Bunny and Basic Grey papers, in the "too good to use" category, a Hello Kitty heart die cut (reduced in the sale) and a lovely Tim Holtz edge die of a picket fence, which will be so useful. Also picked up a Gorjuss stamp and some travel theme scraps to add to cards and scrapbooks. Couldn't resist some of their lovely ribbon too. The teeny pom poms are dinky and the elasticised stripey ribbon will sew onto cardstock well.

In amongst this unnecessary spree, I had a chat about Gorjuss and Tilda stamps. Particularly their lack of mouths. Niece number 1 has a particular aversion to Tilda because of this and finds her very strange. They are quite peculiar looking I must admit although it hasn't stopped me buying a couple of them. Gorjuss are a bit more trendy and acceptable to niece number 1. However, the answer to this is to draw on a mouth. I had never even thought of this! Doh!

New season

2011-01-10T14:05:00.000-08:00

This is my card for the Crafters companion blog challenge. The theme is NEW so I opted for new season as I am spending so much time wishing for spring. The weather is so very miserable and to cap it all I am back at work next week. Fully recovered form Op but will miss all of this lovely crafting time. Never mind, I'll fit it in somehow.

OK: it's a SWALK stamp, die cut ribbon border and frame, ribbon, Sue Dreamer stickers. Image is coloured with waterclour pencils and chalk. Card candy has been added to the corners.
Shameless starts again tonight so I'm off to indulge. It's a bit late so I'm not very chatty at the moment, done no crafting today but had some great fun with nieces baking muffins and lemon biscuits.
Happy crafting all

Whadya know

2011-01-09T07:41:00.000-08:00

Just knew it. I managed the link to the challenge but inserted a photo of me. At least the link works though. Lesson learned.

The easy bit

2011-01-09T07:31:00.000-08:00

This is for my first challenge: Wishes: Polka Doodles of course. I can do this bit, upload the photo and describe the card. The fun will start when I have to link it to the challenge.
Anyway: it's a large A4 sie, gatefolded opening. Polka doodles paper and picket fence, birdhouse Polka doodles images plus plant tabs and sentiment. As the theme is wishes, I have added 3 plant tabs. The aim is to offer the recipient 3 wishes, eg doing the washing up or ironing!. Would probably make a good pick me up card or a mother's day card. I have added some flower gel embellishments and eyelets, tied with baker's twine and beads. I've finished off the edges with a Martha Stewart punch. It's a bit busy but I like it.

Ooh some lovely stash

2011-01-08T08:37:00.000-08:00

My Polka Doodles order came today. The stamps go without saying are fab and I can't wait to use them, pthe sentiments will be so useful. I also ordered some of their baker's twine in cappuchino and pink sorbet. It'll be a nice change from ribbon. Also got some of that pom pom ribbon, which isn't inspiring at the moment but that's just because i haven't figured how to fix it onto a card yet.
Today's card is very simple, making use of some free papers, a pretty flower, brad and sequin plus a Do crafts embossed frame. I love these because their shapes are quite intricate, so they really make a focus on the card. Anyway, it's another pretty pretty one. Will go bolder tomorrow for my first blog challenge!
Catcha later.

Shopping

2011-01-07T11:17:00.000-08:00

I've been following a thread on one of the forums about the perception that making your own cards is cheap when crafters know that it's just an excuse to buy more stash. There's nothing money saving about card making because we can't resist all the goodies out there, even the bargain one's. Given my determination not to buy the Polka Doodles multi buy and my weakness in giving in to my need, I thought it was about time I created a card in honour of shopping. OK so I haven't rotated it and I confess I am not sure how to do it. I used a Born to shop stamp, glittered some grunge stars and added a bow and handbag charm.

Small is beautiful

2011-01-06T07:35:00.000-08:00

I've been mooching around on the net today and had a peek at tome of the Splitcoaststampers videos and Two peas in a bucket. In the US, there still appears to be a focus on samller cards, where we in the UK have been usng the bigger sizes. So today I decided to go small and made a 4" by 4" card. I also challenged myself to use scraps and freebies. This is the result. I am pleased with it as it's pretty but not too sickly, and once again I used my free do crafts papers (believe me i do have a room full of stash also)
I also have a CONFESSION: I gave in and ordered the Polka Doodles stamps and some of their lovely twine and pom pom ribbon. I am sure my fellow crafters will forgive me.

Have a good day folks!

A pair of slippers

2011-01-05T03:17:00.000-08:00

I just had to add this photo of my sister's dogs, Combat and Blitz. They are so naughty but are taking a well deserved rest and I thought they looked like a big pair of hairy slippers. One for the scrapbook I think.

I made a quick card yesterday with some free papers and decoupage from Do Crafts. Their range is fantastic at the moment and I can't resist their papers and cute stamps. This just uses up a few papers combined with a die cut frame.

I am off now to watch a bit TV and try to take my mind off the new Polka Doodles multi buy I watched this morning (Sky plused yesterday ) I need them but really shouldn't.....

Why oh why, Bilberry Pie

2011-01-04T06:05:00.000-08:00

I chose the name for nostalgic reasons. It's to do with crafts and skills, no longer freely practised. I remember learning to sew,knit, crochet,cook and bake, write letters. I remember family making jam and chutney. It just doesn't happen so often now, that's why the crafting community is so great and why I like to see the crafts people enjoy. I remember bilberries, and you rarely see or hear of them now.

I've added a photo of a card I made today. The photo isn't too good, the card's much better in real life. But I wanted to use my Do crafts quilling die and was inspired by Paula Pascual's off the edge ideas. It's quite plain, which I rarely do.

Progress

2011-01-03T08:52:00.000-08:00

At last and thanks to some great advice from a member of the Craftbubble forum (Kathy K) I have managed to insert my bog link into my signatures. I also intend to follow Babyfreckles advice and try to get involved in some challenges.

First challenge today is to upload the photo of Lacey's card. I could really do with investing some quality time with niece number one who will I am sure be able to get this looking a little more interesting. Anyway, the card:
Phew, it worked. I used Dovecraft paper, Sissix Hello Kitty embosslit, Card candy and some foamy flowers I bought in one of the pound shops a while ago. Very touchy feely.
Feeing a little pleased with my progress today (simple things...they say). Am now going to link to some blogs to follow including some of the Craftbubble forum members and my faves: Paula Pascual and Bev Rochester
Catcha later

It's all about the recipient

2011-01-02T08:49:00.000-08:00

Made a card for my little niece Lacey today. My first one of 2011. I'll photogragh it tomorrow and post it. It made me think about the process of making a card for someone specific and how you can really tailor it to the person. Lacey loves Hello Kitty, hence the use of the embosslit, but she loves mooching through my craft room and loves the card candy, so I had to put some on for her. It's a bit busy, but the sort of thing little girls love, loads of pink and glitter. Feeling quite pleased that I also managed a bit recycling on this one, by using up my Liz Earle gift packaging:it was too pretty to throw away.

Start as you mean to go on

2011-01-01T08:01:00.000-08:00

Well at least I have managed to do something today. It's resolution day so after putting away the tree and all the decorations, here goes:
Not to make so many cards.
To make more backgrounds and use some of the arty stash.
To do more scrapbooking
To buy more generic goods
To blog at least once a week and enlist teenage niece support to make blog look "mint"

I will put a photo of my first make on here when I've made it, still not got much motivation afyter the op and Xmas, but will have to make one for niece's birthday on 11.1.11.
New stash: from the Glitter Pot and Strikes: couple of Magnolia stamps, 2 punches (circles) so I can make good use of my Paul Pascual stamps, do crafts quilling die and paper artsy grunge flower die.
Didn't rate the the TV craft sales much, but some great bargains to be had on line.
Well off to watch Anna Marie on Create and Craft (love her templates.
Happy 2011 everyone, I hope it's peaceful.

My first post

2010-12-31T02:22:00.000-08:00

Finally got round to it, setting up my own blog, and guess what? the phones ringing. Never mind, I'll revisit later. Anyway...welcome