ScrapMetal's Retreat

MVS Week 2 Clean & Simple & Week 3 Tie that Sketch

2008-11-16T16:23:00.006Z

Please accept my apologies for the late post of last weeks challenge. I am convinced that there is something going on with this new computer and blogger. I tried for about two hours Last Sunday afternoon to upload and then again in the evening,
Anyway here it is finally. I am well and truly flowing with the Christmas cards now so I am probably best avoided if you are fed up with them already. Normally I make most of them during the summer holidays so by this time of year I am totally sick of them!

I Used:
Paper- DCWV
Cardstock - Papermania
Flowers and Leaves - Prima
Prismacolor pencils

**************************

Moving on to this weeks challenge, I was delighted to find my Magnolia stamp club kit lying on the door mat this week and couldn't resist using it. This sketch is very much suited to using a DL card, only I didn't have any so made my own to my own dimensions and the envelope is to come.
I Used:
Paper - Basic Grey
Cardstock - Papermill Shop
Wire Sentiment - Papermania
Rub on - Paprmania
Glitter
Distress Inks
Copic markers - There are some available for the prize this week so do check out the blog to get your hands on some

Magnolia Vs Stampavie Challenge Blog Week 1

2008-11-02T13:40:00.004Z

Oh my goodness, so here we are, a different challenge blog and a super duper design team (I can't believe that I even made it on this one) I am so going to miss the design teams from Tilda and Sarah Kay though. I never find enough time to blog hop anymore but I really hope to look in on you all as I will miss your work terribly.

This is my piece for this weeks wonderful sketch by Jay Jay. Such a great layout and fabulous for concertina cards (which mine was going to be until I changed it at the last minute).

I used the X-cut shape cutter to make the curve, embossed and inked this before folding. The image was coloured using Prismacolors and cut out using nestabilities. I have added tiny amounts of stickles to the dots on the paper and some of the flowers. The edges of the paper were inked using distress inks.

Materials:
Paper - Basic Gray
Cardstock - Bazzill
Stamp - Rachelle Anne Miller - Playtime
Ribbon - Poppicrafts
Flowers - Prima
Brads - Queen & Co

Magnolia Vs Stampavie...plus Candy to be won!

2008-10-29T22:56:00.004Z

We have some exciting and sad news...
The sad news is Tilda & Co / Sarah Kay Challenges are no more, unfortunately there has had to be some changes. Donna has needed to merge both the blogs together to free some time up for herself.
The good news is we have a brand new challenge blog Magnolia Vs Stampavie. We hope you will join in the challenge each Sunday (as before) The blog is now partnered with Stampaive so you can use Magnolia Stamps, Sarah Kay Stamps and any other stamp made by Stampaive including the ever so lovely Rachelle Anne Miller Designs (these must be the ones made for Stampavie – check out the list on the challenge blog if you're not sure which stamps can be used). The blog will go live on Sunday with the first challenge on Sunday.
Donna has given us some fab Blog Candy for each DT member to give out which she has kindly donated from her craft store Crafty Krafts

So you like what you see in the photo? Want to get your hands on this yummy candy? This is what you need to do:
Firstly please only enter one candy draw – there are 5 DT members and 5 lots of Candy up for grabs, but only one entry per person. The candy is open to all, and Donna will post worldwide. You have until Saturday 1st November 10pm to enter.
1. Place a link to the new Blog on your blog, you can grab a Logo here
2. Post about the new challenge blog on your blog and link to it
3. Leave a comment on the new challenge blog with a link to your post and mention which DT candy you have entered.
Each candy is different so it's important to state which draw you have entered. Donna will then use a random number counter on Sunday and go through all the Designers blog comments and choose one winner from all the entries on that blog. We are looking forward to you joining in with the challenges on the new blog.

PTW Katharina's Sketch #13

2008-10-16T14:28:00.004+01:00

Over at PTW this week the challenge is to follow another of Katherina's wonderful sketches. I am still behind with my Christmas cards and seized the opportunity. These are the new papers from DCWV. I am slightly disappointed with this years Christmas stacks. The colours seem to be a bit washed out and dull. Not what I usually expect from DCWV.

I Used:
Paper - DCWV
Cardstock - Papermania
Brads - Papermania
Snowman Stamp - Sugar Nellie - Home Grown
Sentiment Stamps - Stamps Away

Kadoodle Zodiac Stamps & Shopping

2008-10-13T13:53:00.003+01:00

This is one of the Zodiac stamps from Kadoodle (available via the Craft Barn whose online shop is now live!!! Great delivery and products, I've already tried it out).
Kadoodle also have some wonderful blog candy to give away so make sure that you don't miss out on that awesome stamp! Every Monday from now until Christmas there will be candy up for grabs so please keep checking the Kadoodle blog.
I used my DT Kit to make this sample card so all products are available from the Craft Barn

Tilda & Co challenge 40 ~Tabbed Sketch~

2008-10-12T14:14:00.004+01:00

Over at the Tilda & Co challenge blog this week there is a fab sketch to follow. Here is my take.

I just have to mention that I bought a mystery box of crafting goodies from Crafty Krafts the other day and I recommend that you buy one, so many beautiful products at an unbelievable price!
I Used:
Paper - Basic Grey
Cardstock - Papermania
Rub Ons- Out of my mystery box from Crafty Krafts
Clip - Making Memories

Sarah Kay challenge Week 15 Doodles

2008-10-12T13:56:00.005+01:00

The challenge on the Sarah Kay blog this week is to include some doodling on your project (not really a forte of mine). I thought that I would make a monochrome card this week as I haven't made one in ages.Apologies for the complete lack of posts, my old computer finally gave up the ghost. Panic doesn't even come close to describing it. I am in utter disarray. I have all my addresses, pictures, watermarks and url's still on the old hard-drive. I am not used to this operating system or the flatscreen monitor. Hopefully I will get there.

I used:
Paper - DCWV
Cardstock - Bazzill
Flowers - Poppicrafts
Buttons- Local Craft Shop
Hearts - Making Memories

Tilda & Co Challenge 38, Use a sketch

2008-09-28T17:08:00.002+01:00

This is my Tilda and Co card for this week where we had to follow a sketch.

I have totally run out of thank you cards so under the watermark is a thank you sticker.

Sarah Kay Challenge Week 13 True Blue

2008-09-28T16:58:00.003+01:00

The theme for the Sarah Kay Challenge blog this week is *True Blue*. What with the daily battle of trying to get my Daughter settled in college I am so behind with everything. Normally I have all my Christmas cards made by the end of September, this year I have three so I thought that I would take the opportunity to make another..

The paper is from Dovecraft, flowers are Bazzill Bling, Cardstock Bazzill, the brads I can't remember and the ribbon is from Poppicrafts.

Tilda & Co ~Challenge 37~ On A Budget

2008-09-21T11:11:00.004+01:00

The theme this week on the Tilda & Co blog is ~On A Budget~. Great challenge this one for getting the old grey matter working and actually thinking about how much our hobby costs, and that you don't have to throw loads of money at a project to get a fantastic end piece...don't believe me??? Check out the awesome creations from the DT this week!

Here's the break down of what I used and how much it totalled.
Cardstock - Papermania - 1/2 a sheet = 15p
Papers- K&Co - 2 sheets = 14p
Buttons - local needlecraft shop = 16p
Glitter Glue - Craft Tonic = 2p
Recycled Ribbon = 1p
Foam waste from sticky dots = 1p
Total cost = 49p

Sarah Kay Challenge Week 12 Creative CD Cases

2008-09-21T10:47:00.003+01:00

The week on the Sarah Kay blog the challenge is *Creative CD Cases*.
I went into slight panic, no-one wants to see how I store my Nestabilities, I have some calendar cases lying around left over from storing clear stamps when I only had a few. I really wanted to use one of those neat little tins that bands chuck out as promos because I have decorated SO many plastic cd cases.
A plain metal case cries out to be altered, out came the good old black spray paint which I thought would look fab if it was dry brushed with silver. Then I had a complete nutty notion to use hot foil but my poor old foil pen just couldn't cope with the size of the tin so I reach for the iron! It wasn't the best idea that I'd ever had, the iron burnt the spray paint! I am so glad that you're unable to smell my project (actually it's fine now but the stench of burning plastic was overwhelming, don't try this at home kiddies). The idea I think would have worked had I not used the spray paint. The tin was gloss lacquered to protect the foil.
Anyway, this little tin come with a foam self adhesive insert which I though would be perfect to poke earrings into as a stocking filler.

Cute Card Thursday Food

2008-09-19T16:12:00.003+01:00

The theme this week over at CCT is Food so I thought that I would dig out one of my favourite House Mouse stamps (it has nothing to do with me loving doughnuts!). I also took delivery of my new Copic Markers yesterday so it's only natural that I used them to colour this image. Generally I tend to colour like a toddler with pens so this was a huge, risky investment for me but I am quite pleased with the results.
I used:
Paper - K&CO
Cardstock - Bazzill
Flowers - Prima
Brad - Papermania
Ribbon - Poppicrafts

PTW challenge Katharina's Sketch #11

2008-09-15T22:25:00.003+01:00

With my eldest Daughter at college and the youngest at school I found some time to actually take part in the PTW challenge where the challenge was to follow another of Katharina's wonderful sketches. I also indulged in some retail therapy but you'll have to watch this space to see if I made the right decision or not! I have promised myself that I will master (or should that be try) a new technique within a month. I have been distressing papers for a while but normally with chalk or chalk based inks, but this month I have decided that I really should get more out of my distress ink pads so this is what I'm trying here.
This card uses one of the new stamps from Kadoodle, little Leo, he is just so adoreable. The papers are Basic Grey, the buttons and ribbons are from my stash. Little Leo has been coloured using a mixture of Prismacolors and H2o's.

~Tilda & Co Challenge 36~ Chocolate Delight

2008-09-14T21:38:00.003+01:00

The theme today on the Tilda & Co blog is chocolate, pink and white. I went for a collection of cards in a mini pizza style box. These are to say "Thank You" to my Aunt for the gifts that she brought us all back from her trip to Australia.

I Used:
Cardstock - Papermania & Bazzill
Paper - Printed on the PC
Tags- Nestabilities
Ribbon - Stash

Sarah Kay Week 11 Trio of Papers

2008-09-14T21:27:00.006+01:00

This week on the Sarah Kay Challenge blog the theme was a "Trio of Papers" wjere we had to use three patterned/designer papers. I really love the feel of this card, it's not my usual style but I think it works. I'm not really sure why the blue on the image is showing as a different tone to that of the papers, photography isn't my forte I'm afraid.

I Used:
Paper- K&Co
Cardstock - Papermania
Flowers - Prima
Brads - Queen&Co
Ribbon - Poppicrafts
Buttons - Crafty Crafts
Sentiment - Making Memories

No Internet Connection.

2008-09-13T21:03:00.005+01:00

Apologies again for not being around, my back is feeling completely better now but my internet connection went down...typical!

Tomorrow I will be late posting my Tilda & Co and Sarah Kay DT challenge blog cards as I will be at The Craft Barn (train at 6.30am to arrive at 9.15am....eek!) but I am really looking forward to the day.

Oh and the new Kadoodle designs are out so I had a play. Isabelle is so thoughtful, she sent mine and my Hubby's zodiac signs with my DT kit. I adore them both. The papers are Basic Grey, the cardstock is Core'dinations (Cuttlebug embossed) & Bazzill, The sentiment is Craftworks and I made the faux buttons using Nestabilities & an eyelet tool. All items on this card are available from the Craft Barn.
I hope that you check back tomorrow evening to see the Tilda and Sarah Kay cards.

Tilda & Co Challenge

2008-09-07T18:27:00.003+01:00

I'm so sorry for the delay in posting my Tilda & Co work. I have had a very intense week, anyway here is last weeks embossing challenge piece.
And moving swiftly on to this weeks challenge where the theme is envelope art. This is a pockelope! I love these as they have three pockets for you to stash tiny goodies and send to your friends.
I have used K&Co double sided 12 x 12 paper to create the pockelope. The tag is made using nestabilities and I have just layered up a couple of prima flowers to hide the join.
On the reverse of the tag I have used a stamp from Catslife Press rubber stamp company. I do like their seals and altered art stamps very much.

New Designs From Kadoodle

2008-08-25T21:07:00.003+01:00

These are the latest addition to the Kadoodle range from The Craft Barn.
Aren't they just adorable? My favourite is the Leo stamp but then it would be as that is my zodiac sign. Hubby is a Cancerian so that one is in my virtual basket too lol.

Tilda & Co ~Week 33~ "Hands"

2008-08-24T10:00:00.005+01:00

On the Tilda & Co challenge blog this week we were asked to make a matching project and card that both feature "hands"...eek...I thought!!! Then I remembered that Donna sent me a wonderful charm in a DT kit which I hadn't got around to using.

Then I put my back out and I had a missing parcel that I really wanted to complete my matching project as this week we had an "extra" DT challenge...Arrhhhh I hate it when things work against you!

Anyway, here is my card with the hand charm. The papers are K&Co, the flowers are Prima & Papermania, the brads are from Papermania, the sentiment was made using the Around The Block Label Writer.

Here is my matching project, made using the contents of my missing parcel, papers etc are the same as on my card. All the images were stamped onto a single piece of card as I needed to be wary of making it too thick for the mechanism so I had much fun with the masking off.

The clock is for my two girls' shared bedroom so the colour scheme was not of my choosing (strictly no pink!!!). I am liking this so much I am thinking of making one for myself with my chosen colours!

Sarah Kay Challenge Week 8 Sketch

2008-08-24T10:00:00.003+01:00

This week on the Sarah Kay Challenge blog we had to follow the sketch below.For a change I went for a 5" x 5" card (normally I favour 6" x 6") but unfortunately I messed up the image. By the time I realised I'd made a mistake I'd put my back out (hence no other cards from me for a week) and I can't face correcting my errors.
I Used:
Papers - Making Memories
Cardstock - Papermill shop & Scrapbox
Flowers - Prima
Brads - Poppicrafts & Papermania
Clip - Making Memories

Sarah Kay Week 7 "How Charming?"

2008-08-17T10:30:00.004+01:00

*Week 7 How Charming* Sarah Kay Challenge
This week we would like your work to include charms, pendants or dangles.
I chose to use gold charms along with a blue and brown colour combination, the only problem was that I didn't have any gold charms so had to get busy with the spray paint lol.
I Used:
Paper - K&Co & Papermill
Cardstock - Papermania
Flowers - Prima
Brads - Queen & CO
Ribbon - Poppicrafts

Tilda & Co Challenge 32 "Cold as Ice"

2008-08-17T10:24:00.003+01:00

*Challenge 32* Cold as ice...Tilda & Co
The sun is now drifting away very fast and soon it will be as cold as ice....
Using the colours Blue & white Only . Show us how cold your projects can feel this week.
Please remember your work must include at least one Magnolia image.

I was totally stumped with this one so sorry it's another Christmas card but the snowman was all I could think of.

I Used;
Paper - DCWV
Cardstock - DCWV & Papermill
Stickers - Papermania

Cute Card Thursday "Soft Furnishings" & PTW "Button It"

2008-08-14T16:32:00.006+01:00

Not had much time for crafting. I have been a bit busy this week making a shelter for my rabbit, trying to dodge the showers and the wind was a bit of a challenge but we are finally there and now he'll be protected from the sun when he is in his run.
A double challenge from me this week. This is for PTW, where the challenge was to use buttons and CCT, where the challenge was to use anything that you would find on soft furnishings.
I Used:
Paper- Making Memories
Cardstock - Papermania
Flower - Prima
Ribbon & Fabric Brad - Poppicrafts
Thread - Stash

Tilda & Co Week 31 Christmas Is Coming

2008-08-10T14:44:00.000+01:00

This week on the Tilda & Co Challenge Blog we had to make a Christmas card. Sorry it's a bit bright, can you believe we actually had some sun? I hope Edwin still looks Christmassy in December. His Hat, bobble and ground under his feet have had the white gel pen treatment (although I don't think this shows in the photo) and his wings have been stickled.
I Used:
Paper - DCWV Christmas Glitter Stack
Flowers & Holly Leaves - Papermania and have been stickled
Ribbon - Stash
Sentiment - Stamps Away

Sarah Kay Challenge Sketch Week 6

2008-08-10T13:15:00.000+01:00

This week on the Sarah Kay Challenge Blog we had a sketch to follow. Please go and check out the stunning work from the DT this week.

Here is my take on the sketch. Sarah Kay and snakeskin...bit of an odd mix but I hope that it has worked as this is a birthday card for my friend Helen (hope it's reached you) whose birthday is today. Unfortunately Helen doesn't yet have a blog but I have a feeling she will...one day.

I used:
Paper - Imaginese and some snakeskin paper from my stash
Cardstock - Papermania
Sentiment - Hero Arts
Ribbon - Stash
Charm - Stash
Flowers - Prima and Poppicrafts
Leaves - Prima

Friday Sketchers Sketch #14

2008-08-08T17:28:00.004+01:00

Over on the Friday Sketchers blog there is a wonderful sketch to follow. I had great fun with this and plan to give this card to Eldest Daughter whne she gets her exam results later this month.

Her last three years at school were plagued with receiving treatment for her tumour and having a totally unhelpful school who just said she was too ill to be there so her results will be an achievement whatever they are, although I think she is already resigned to re-sits rather than the A levels and the Health and Social care course that she has had her heart set on. Since her Chemo ended she has turned totally girly and pink. I hope this card reflects who she is now.

I Used:
Papers - Basic Grey
Cardstock - Papermania
Sentiment - Three Bugs In a Rug
Flowers - Mixed
Image Stamp - Dewdrop Craftz

Cute Card Thursday Challenge 22 "The Two of Us"

2008-08-07T22:27:00.003+01:00

Cute Card Thursday
"Challenge 22
This week the theme is 'The two of us'
We would like you to use two of something on your card, it could be 2 people, 2 animals or 1 of each, we love to see your own interpretation as always!"
&
ABC challenge
E is for Embellishments

This gave me the chance to use Leo and his dog again. Leo has ditched his kiddie clothes and gone for a more tailored look this time, of course he couldn't leave his 'lil sidekick out and managed to find him a matching hat and neck scarf!

PTW Katharina's Sketch #8

2008-08-05T17:34:00.003+01:00

Over at PTW there is another fabulous sketch from the very talented Katharina.

Here is my take on the sketch using one of the Sugar Nellies that I recieved from my girl's last week for my Birthday. The beautiful lace was also a birthday gift from the lovely Cathy. The papers are from K&Co, the sentiment stamp is from Hero Arts and the flowers are Prima.

So sorry about the dark photo, we have no sun today :( but it has stopped raining :)

Friday Sketchers challenge Sketch #13

2008-08-03T16:18:00.002+01:00

I came across the Friday Sketchers challenge blog whilst searching Google for stamps. Normally I wouldn't have time to take part but this week I thought I'd be ok to...with the Kids on their hols I never have computer time anymore which does leave a little more crafting time!

Anyway, this is Leo from La Compagnie des Elfes, he is a paper doll style stamp, the clothing and accessories are from the same line. I am a total sucker for anything called Leo as that is my Zodiac sign.

He reminds me very much of one of my Son's friends when he was about six, all of his clothes seemed to be too big, hair all over the place and always mud or yoghurt spilt on his trousers. Said friend is now off to Uni in September...how old does that make me feel?

~30~ Tilda & Co Sketch challenge

2008-08-03T10:24:00.000+01:00

This weeks challenge over at Tilda & Co is a sketch. Please do take the time to visit the very talented Design Team, they really do put lots of hard work in to bring you inspiration every week.
My card is a fairly simple one. The papers are from 3 Bugs in a Rug, the cardstock is Papermania and fishing Edwin was coloured using distress inks.

Sarah Kay Challenge Week 5 3 Buttons & 3 Jewels

2008-08-03T10:22:00.000+01:00

This week on the Sarah Kay Challenge blog, Heike set the theme and she chose *3 Buttons & 3 Jewels*, how cool is that?

Anyway here is my card, a little brighter than normal (I think I am trying to will the sunny weather back). I forget who the papers are from because they were a sort of impulse buy, the flowers are Prima (and have been stickled) which I bought from the Craft Barn (oh boy do I wish that shop was closer to me, I did offer to move in but...) on Thursday, the buttons are just from my stash and the Jewels are from Papermania except for the large one which is the centre of a Flora Doodle.

Please go and check out the work from the DT, every week I fall off my chair when I see their fabulous creations hit my inbox!

Penny Black Saturday Challenge ~No Pink~

2008-08-02T18:51:00.003+01:00

This is my entry for The Penny Black Saturday Challenge where the theme this week is "No Pink".

This is a stamp that I picked up in a bargain bin a couple of months ago..oh no, I hope I'm allowed the mice skin and cheeks...oops!

The papers are Making Memories as is the clip, the flowers are Prima and so are the leaves, the brads are Papermania as are the Adhesive Gems. The sentiment was printed on the computer and then cut with Nestabilities.

CCT In The House

2008-08-01T18:51:00.004+01:00

This is my card for Cute Card Thursday this week where the theme is "In The House". It's a bit of a different style for me and a bit of a mish mash of different stamp companies.

The background papers are Making Memories and the paper on the sofa is Laura Ashley. The stamps are from Sugar Nellie (pen pal), Alota Rubber Stamps (sofa) and the dog is from La Compagnie des Elfes.

Birthday Blog Candy Winner

2008-07-30T23:25:00.001+01:00

To celebrate my birthday on 29th July I thought it would be nice to offer you the chance to win some blog candy.

Up for grabs are:

6 x 6 Laura Ashley papers (11 sheets)
6 x 6 Three Bugs In a Rug papers (14 sheets)
1 Making Memories Word Feti
1 EK Success Tiny Giants Vellum Stickers
1 EK Success 3D Pooh Stickers
1 Paper Bliss 3D Stickers
1 Colorbox Mini Scrapbook Kit
12 Prima Flowers
1 Sugar Nellie Stamp - Giddy Up

To be in with a chance of getting your hands on these goodies (will post worldwide), link to my blog candy on your blog, please post a comment below so I can visit you. I will pick a winner at random 9pm BST on 30th July.

***Winner***

Thanks to everyone who took part, the random winner is ~ Heike post #32, please send me your address so I can get these in the post to you :)

PTW Cool Yule

2008-07-28T13:01:00.002+01:00

This weeks PTW challenge is to make a Christmas card! Yes, about 5 months to Christmas now so the countdown begins for us crafters!!!

Naturally the Amelia with Gift stamp from Kadoodle (which goes on sale this Friday 1st August at The Craft Barn) is the perfect choice for this challenge. Papers are Basic Grey, Cardstock - Bazzill, Flowers - Prima (embellished with Stickles, Sentiment - Craftworks.

Sarah Kay Challenges Week 4 Scallop Sketch

2008-07-27T11:02:00.005+01:00

This week on the Sarah Kay challenge blog we have a sketch to follow. I used K&Co paper, Bazzill & DCWV cardstock, Prima & Bazzill Flowers. Please take the time to visit the other DT members, their work is amazing and so inspirational.

Challenge 7 - Down on the Farm

2008-07-26T15:30:00.004+01:00

This is my entry for The Penny Black challenge blog. It's just a quick one from me as I am in the middle of the housework (which I'm not doing so well at, can you tell?) before I go out with a few close friends tonight for Birthday drinks.

Strawberries & Cream

2008-07-24T21:09:00.002+01:00

Well the little one is at her sleep over so I thought that I would try and join in on a challenge. I have decided to enter this in the ABC challenge which is Decoupage and the Cute Card Thursday challenge which is Things That Grow.

Our strawberries have been watered, picked and eaten for well over a month so I thought this image would be fitting.

In this picture I hope that you can see the 3d gloss decoupage.

Christmas Amelia & Pirate Dan

2008-07-23T14:31:00.005+01:00

This is another take on the Kadoodle Amelia with Gift stamp, this time with a Christmas theme. All papers and cardstock were from my DT Kit supplied by The Craft Barn.

Ahoy Landlubbers!
This is Pirate Dan also available from Kadoodle and designed by Sandra Dry as is the treasure chest. I'm afraid that I did not use my DT Kit to make this card. The cardstock is Bazzill and the papers are Rusty Pickle. I can see that I will have great fun using these stamps. Do you think people will mind receiving Pirate cards from me all the time?

Introducing Amelia

2008-07-23T00:45:00.005+01:00

Well, here she is, in her soft fleecy jacket, Amelia with gift. One of the new stamps from Kadoodle, designed by Christine Dark and available at The Craft Barn. Isn't she cute, I've already had to find a special hiding place for her because someone else in the house has their eye on her. I have used my own stash to make this card as it is for one of Georgie's friends who has a birthday sleepover on Thursday.
I used:
Papers - K&Co
Cardstock - Bazzill & DCWV
Flowers - Prima
Brads - Papermania
Ribbon - Stash
Stamp - Amelia with gift - Kadoodle
Sentiment - Woodware

***** A Message From The Craft Barn *****

EXTRAVAGANZA WEEKEND - 13 & 14 SEPTEMBER

We are pleased to be able to release further info regarding our September extravaganza weekend. This is going to be a fantastic event and amazingly is still FREE!

We have managed to arrange a truly sensational line up of demonstrations and workshops for you.

Beatrice from Katzelkratft (her first time in the UK)
Jean and Malcolm from Crafty Individuals
Leandra from Paper Artsy
Little Claire Designs
Kay Carley
Sandra Dry with her new Kadoodle characters
Christine Dark with her new Kadoodle cottages
Isabelle Norris
Wendy Horrod
Carole Cann
Carol Staples
Carol Cockbain
Paula Pascual (Sunday only)
Jane Collman (workshops)
Kassie Spires (workshops)

We will be releasing details of the workshop programme shortly. The workshops will cost £2.50 and you will make a complete project to take away with you. They are limited to 12 people and last for 1 hour each. We are also running the lucky dip again for those who book and attend the workshops and, as those of you who came last time will know, all of the prizes have a value greater than the cost of the workshop.

***** End Of Message *****

I have been promised a Birthday trip to the Craft Barn on Tuesday so hopefully I will be able to stock up on more yummy stash...woohoo!

PTW Katharina's Sketch #7

2008-07-22T08:33:00.004+01:00

This week at PTW there is another lovely sketch by the very talented Katharina .

For this sketch I have used:
Papers - Basic Grey
Cardstock - Bazzill
Stamp - Penny Black
Ribbon & some glossy accents

Roll on tomorrow when it is the end of term, I know Georgie can't wait for the holidays (the other two started their's about a month ago) and there is nothing she likes more than not having to get up as early.

Tilda & Co ~~ 29~~ It's a Bugs Life!

2008-07-20T10:39:00.003+01:00

This week over at Tilda & Co the challenge is "bugs"Please show us in your work insects, ants, ladybugs, you name it if its a little creepy bug then show it off!

This week I made a framed scene to hang on the wall in my craft area. I decorated the inside, then placed some acetate on top before sticking the frame decoration and butterflies on. Not many bugs from me this week I'm afraid as I only own the Magnolia butterflies and the ladybird.

Sarah Kay Challenge Week 3 Too Posh To Be Square

2008-07-20T01:36:00.005+01:00

The challenge this week over at the Sarah Kay challenge blog is...
*Week 3* Too Posh To Be Square
No square cards, or books, coasters, altered art etc.
You are free to create anything you like as long as it's not square!

This is my double pocket bag which I have made out of one 12 x 12 sheet of Basic Grey paper. Whilst it may look square I can promise you that it isn't, it measures 5" x 4.75".

The bag is for a friend who once told me off for putting such a small tag on their present, so now I always include the largest tag possible!!!

Cute Card Thursday ~19~ Animals Only

2008-07-17T14:41:00.004+01:00

CCT Challenge 19
Animals Only - No People Allowed
The challenge this week is to make a card using animal images only - NO PEOPLE OR CHARACTERS AT ALL!!

Not much from me on the crafting front since the weekend, I've had one of those weeks where I just went into meltdown.

Anyway, I thought that I would try and get at least one quick card made this week so here it is. I had a bit of a play with the Paper Gator and figured out the scallop edging which matches quite nicely with the scalloped Nestabilities circles. I really love the Paper Gator, I haven't found a single thing that it can't cut yet!

I used:
Papers - K&Co
Cardstock - Papermania and Core'dinations
Ribbon - Poppicrafts
Stamp - Whipper Snapper Designs

Sarah Kay Challenge 2 "A Little Sketchy"

2008-07-13T00:35:00.005+01:00

This week on the Sarah Kay Challenge Blog we had to make a card whilst working from a sketch

The papers are Basic Grey, the flowers are Prima, the brads are Papermania and I coloured the image using distress inks again. I think that I am slowing getting used to them.

I'm still sure that is a cat walking beside her, I know on the Stampavie site it says it's a dog but it looks like a cat to me.

Tilda & Co Challenge ~28~ Grunge

2008-07-13T00:14:00.006+01:00

Challenge 28 Tilda & Co - Distressed Tilda
Make her Distressed looking, a little rough around the edges, a bit of grungy!
So stay clear of these cute pastel colours if you can help it and get down and dirty with tilda!

I had great fun making this card! I went to work on this with a sanding block, I took an emery board to the Tilda image, smudged ink and chalk all over, I even pinched a toy car, inked up the wheels and ran that over the paper. Luckily I had a torn paper flower in my jar so I inked that too. The brads received ink, some of Hubby's paint and a good go with the sanding block as well. The button I actually bought looking like that lol. I crumpled some Rusty Pickle paper after adding the Tattered Angel sentiment and fixed this with silicone to keep it's shape. There are some glossy accents but these don't really show in the photo.

The effect I was trying to achieve was something that resembled a once pretty card that had been left somewhere dank and filthy then forgotten about for years.

Strangely enough most of my friends would probably rather receive this card than many of the cards I normally make.

Penny Black Sketch Challenge 5

2008-07-12T13:25:00.004+01:00

The challenge on the Penny Black Challenge blog is a sketch...yippieeeeeeeee...I love sketches.

Just a quick card from me this week as I really needed to send a little card to my Dad (hence the male colours), so it had to be written and sent.

This is coloured with distress inks, the paper is little sizzles, the flowers are prima with added stickles and the brads are papermania.

It was my Hubby's 41st birthday on Wednesday so I need to get the house straight and then we're off out to celebrate...woohoo!

First Play

2008-07-11T23:50:00.004+01:00

This is my first play using Distress Inks to watercolour an image and I am quite pleased with results (ok so I need to perfect but this is a good effort for me with something new).
I mentioned before that I had decided to give my local craft shop a miss. The wonderful Diane at Harmony Crafts in Shoreham-by-sea supplied me with the inks. If you're ever in the area, do pop along, you won't be disappointed.
Thank you so much Diane, this card will be in the post to you tomorrow so you can see the true effect.

Cute Card Thursday ~18~ Child

2008-07-10T18:14:00.005+01:00

This week the theme of the challenge at CCT is a card for a child.

I borrowed my ten year old daughter's stamp for this one, I've had my eye on it for a couple of months now and today she finally let me borrow it LOL . I have added 3d gloss to the eyes, a few scales and the tail spikes (but I couldn't capture this in the photo).

The papers are Basic Grey, the letters are Sizzix Ransom Alphabars and the brads are from Poppicrafts (pssst they have a sale on at the mo too, great service, fab items, not connected...blah blah blah). I can't help thinking that the brown halo effect was a really bad move as he reminds me of a Ready Brek Kid.

Raining Cats & Dogs

2008-07-08T12:03:00.003+01:00

The weather today isn't very pleasant so I thought that I'd make a little sunshine with this card.

I seem to be very behind with everything at the moment, I blame this awful cold that really isn't shifting!

This card is actually for two challenges (which leaves me a little time for the chores...oh joy!). The Penny Black challenge is Buttons and Brads, if you look closely at the brads you'll see the mini embossed buttons, tenuous I know but it does just about fit! The PTW challenge this week is another of the wonderful Sketches from Katharina.

Sarah Kay Challenge 1 Lovely Lilac

2008-07-06T16:46:00.005+01:00

Well what can I say? This is a new venture for Donna and myself. We had been talking about this for sometime (waiting for the new stamps etc), then once they were released, it was all systems go!
We really do have a superb and incredibly talented Design Team lined up.
Donna has done almost all of the work herself and I believe that she has done an incredible job. I'm just here to take some of the load off of Donna as she already has a shop and the Tilda & Co blog to run, so please feel free to contact me regarding the blog if you need to know anything.

Challenge 1....
Lovely Lilac
Taken from the Inspirational theme on the challenge blog, We have decided this week we would love you to use the colour Lilac.. With the inspiration taken from the blog template.Its a very easy one for the first week..we want to ease you all in slowly!

Tilda & Co ~ 27~ Thinking of You

2008-07-06T11:01:00.006+01:00

"Challenge 27... Thinking of Others

Now this could be an altered gift, a Card Set, ( not just a card on its own) It could be a Mini Book, it could be anything! As long as it is a gift for somebody, as we all send out little raks to crafting friends or gifts to them, and then there's our family's – so i thought it would be nice that this week, we are “ thinking of others” and what we can make for them to put a smile on there face.

As Always your work must include at least 1 Magnolia Stamp"

I decided to make a friendship wallet for stamped images. The idea being that the wallet can be sent as a RAK and then passed on with the next friend's images inside.

This is the picture of the inside with the stamp pockets closed.

Here you can see the stamp pockets open, obviously full of Magnolia images as this is a Tilda & Co challenge.

A close up 0f the darling little charm that accents the flower, how sweet and thank you to our wonderful "boss" for sending it, along with the flower, ribbon and some of the fab papers.

Great News all round.

2008-07-04T16:00:00.003+01:00

Today has been a great day.
I am lucky enough to have been chosen as a Design Team Member for Kadoodle Stamps. If you haven't seen their stamps (and you like the cute ones, like me) then go and have a look, they are so sweet and I can't to get my hands on them! I really can't believe it. They have chosen some extremely talented Ladies, please go and check them out, their work is mind blowing.
Valérie (known as “Poupette”) from France
Kim Piggott (UK) Blog coming soon.
Bev from Newcastle (UK)
Brandi from Pennsylvania (USA)

Then to make a great day even better, my Son got in touch to say that he has passed his diploma and is now set to start his degree in September...Woohoo!

CCT ~17~ The Great Outdoors

2008-07-03T18:35:00.004+01:00

The challenge on the Cute Card Thursday blog is to create a card with The Great Outdoors as a theme, now I'm not totally convinced that this fits the bill but at least the image is that of someone outside. I tend to think of the great outdoors as being masses of rolling countryside, or the beach where you can just walk for miles and holidays in the Scottish Highlands. Still this could be a girl picking wild flowers in the country...with her cat...oops I've only just realised it's a dog LOL

Better Late than Never

2008-07-03T18:22:00.003+01:00

Yesterday I seemed to be having Internet problems but today everything seems to be fine again, not really quite sure what was going on there but anyway here is my card for the New ABC challenge blog where the theme this week was Animals.

This is the first House Mouse stamp I ever bought. It seems to get neglected a little these days so I thought it was about time I used it again.

I've really got in to the old sanded embossing at the moment. The Sizzix and Big Shot plates really don't have much depth butI think they come up ok with a sanding block

PTW Thanks a Latte!

2008-07-01T15:08:00.003+01:00

This weeks challenge (at PTW), Thanks a Latte, is to make a thank you card! There's an optional extra to use coffee and cream colours too (the Latte bit lol!)

I'm still sat here feeling full of cold but just couldn't resist playing with at least one of my new Sarah Kay stamps...it's been torture just looking at them lol.

As a child, my bedroom at my Nan's house was kitted out in Sarah Kay; wallpaper, curtains, bedding, lampshade and even a little decoupage style picture on the wall! I never even knew how lucky I was lol so there was a touch of nostalgia for me when I made this card.

Tilda & Co ~~ 26 ~~ Sketch This...

2008-06-29T11:01:00.002+01:00

Tilda & Co ~*~ 26 ~*~ Sketch This...

How about a sketch this week.....Below you will see the sketchPlease make your work using the Sketch as your guide,You can rotate the sketch & even resize the Elements if you would like to,But do not move the elements around,As long as we can still see the original sketch layout and can be easily recognised then that is fine!

There are also some lovely prizes again this week. I love the skull downloads from Kaboodle Doodles that are shown in the example.

So this my card for the challenge this week. Unusually for me I used watercolours (I rarely watercolour my Magnolia's).

The backing paper is Three Bugs in a Rug and the cardstock is from my scrapbox so could be from anywhere?!? The brads are from Poppicrafts.

Not feeling myself today

2008-06-28T18:56:00.003+01:00

I look out of my window and can see people crossing the street to avoid walking past our house...well they should be. We all have stinking colds and I'm not in the mood for crafting but my little one has been looking forward to taking part in the new Crafty Monkey's challenge blog.

Now I would like to point out that I have not been influenced at all by my Daughter's ability, it's just that I have a cold and I found a different challenge blog that I want to try as well as the Penny Black challenge.

It is scary how alike the two cards look though. My card was already made and tucked away safely before Georgie came into the room. I cannot believe how vibrant her colouring of the image is and how she didn't want (or need) any input from me.

I Used:
Papers - Basic Grey
Cardstock - Bazzill
Flowers - Prima & Poppicrafts
Brad - Papermania
Stamp - Penny Black
Sentiment Stamp - Woodware and Impression Obsession (which have both been flocked with Doodlebug crushed velvet).

"YAOB = Your Artworks On My Blog"

2008-06-27T15:27:00.003+01:00

The very talented Katharina and Sugar Nellie have teamed up.

All you have to do is to create a card using any of my sketches (it doesn't matter which one) with a Sugar Nellie as central motive.

With the chance to use one of Katharina's wonderful sketches and a delightful Sugar Nellie stamp very generously offered as a prize how could I resist?

I Used:
Paper - K & Co
Cardstock - Bazzill
Flowers - Prima (again from the lovely RAK from Pauline
Brads - Papermania
Ribbon - Poppicrafts
Stamps - Sugar Nellie (I just adore the Sweet Ebony range)

CCT and flowers from a RAK

2008-06-26T18:55:00.005+01:00

CCT Challenge 16

No Patterned Paper
Now, if this fills you with horror, as it did me, you are allowed to make your own patterned paper or card by stamping, inking, doodling etc. on plain paper or cardstock. You can emboss, tear and add anything else you like. The only restriction is no 'bought' patterned paper!

OMG!!! I love my paper and find it impossible to work without it. I hate tearing paper and had to get my husband to scrunge up my cardstock! Think I need therapy...it's almost like a phobia...my heart starts to pound, and my hands shake.

Anyway I eventually made my card and this is the result. The cardstock has been sanded, ripped, scrunged, ironed and embossed. I quite like the effect but wish it wasn't so traumatic to achieve!!! The dark brown card really isn't as dark as it's showing (it looks almost black on my monitor) and the embossed artwork stamp looks a mess (I used the same powder on the copper brads and they look fine).

I Used:
Cardstock - Core'dinations & Papermania

Flowers - RAK from Pauline C (thank you so much, they're stunning)

Zig - Zag Brad - Poppicrafts

Ribbon - Poppicrafts

Leaves - Quickutz

Embossed with a couple of Sizzix Texturz Plates

Off for a lay down now lol

PTW Katharina's sketch #5

2008-06-23T18:08:00.002+01:00

This is my simple (and quite different for me) entry for the PTW sketch challenge this week I needed something quick and easy to do in my half an hour window and luckily this lovely sketch from the wonderful Katharina fitted the bill perfectly!

If you're seeing that funny ripple on the card it is down to the card being lined and pearlescent, poor little camera couldn't cope lol.

Tilda & Co Challenge ~ 25 ~ We've Gone Dottie

2008-06-22T14:56:00.006+01:00

Tilda & Co Challenge ~ 25 ~ We've Gone Dottie
We've gone Dottie!!
Would love to see the Use of Dots on your work this week,
A Little Easier than last week’s!
So grab all things Dottie and get creative!

This week I went Dottie mad with DCWV adhesive papers, Bazzill Bling Cardstock and a press stud. If anyone knows of a company that produces crafty press studs then please let me know, at the moment I am stuck with silver, black and white press studs. The flowers had spots drawn on with Dottariffic pens.

Penny Black Challenge 2 - Friendship

2008-06-21T13:46:00.003+01:00

The challenge at the Penny Black blog this week is:

Challenge 2 - Friendship
I think its fair to say we have all made some wonderful friends through blogging so
this week we would like you to create something you would give to a friend.
It's that easy !
Don't forget you must include at least 1 PB stamp and
its entirely up to what you make - card, atc, altered art etc.

This is my entry.

I have used:
Paper - Little Sizzle s & DCWV
Cardstock - Core'dinations & Papermania
Flowers - Prima
Brads - Doodlebug
Buttons & Gems - Stash

Magnolia Stamp for grabs from Sassy Crafts

2008-06-20T17:16:00.003+01:00

There is a competition over at the Sassy Crafts blog where you can win a Magnolia stamp of your choice from their shop. I have purchased from the store before and found the service to be excellent and the goodies are just scrummy.

All you have to do is create a craft project of your choice, there are no rules except for it must contain at least one magnolia stamp and the stamp must be the focal point!! The rest is up to you.

This is my entry for the comp. I have used K & Co paper with Core'dinations card which I used a Sizzix texturz plate on and then sanded.

CCT ~15 Make A Birthday Card

2008-06-19T16:18:00.003+01:00

This is my entry for the Cute Card Thursday challenge this week where you have to make a birthday card.

Yesterday I received some of the Core'dinations card so I thought that I would have a play around with it today. The colours are gorgeous, really easy to use, I just need them all now!

PTW Feelin' HOT HOT HOT!!!

2008-06-16T15:54:00.005+01:00

This is my entry for the PTW challenge.
This weeks challenge is to use HOT colours! Think reds, oranges, yellows, hot pinks etc!!

It's very overcast here and the hot oranges haven't really come out in the photo but never-mind

Tilda & Co ~24~ Serendipity

2008-06-15T12:29:00.004+01:00

Serendipity!

You may be thinking what is Serendipity?Well it is a Fun Crafting Techniquethat i thought would be fun for us to all do as a challenge,Now The is many Sites you can visit that will give you ideas as to what Serendipity is all about,Examples of which can be found on the Tilda & Co challenge blog.

I had great fun making mine and roped in my two daughters (Georgina & Katriona) to help.

Challenge 1 First Penny Black Stamp

2008-06-14T13:02:00.002+01:00

There is a new challenge blog starting today for Penny Black Stamps!

This week the challenge is to use your first Penny Black stamp. I bought two, this one (Hobble & Cuddle) and the other was Bun Bun.

I chose to use Hobble & Cuddle because it doesn't get used very often, I'm not really sure why but it is quite a simple Penny Black stamp.

I Used:
Papers - Basic Grey
Cardstock - Papermill
Flower - Flora Doodle
Brads - Papermania
Button & Ribbon - Stash

Nice Mice

2008-06-13T10:53:00.005+01:00

This is my entry for the Cute Card Thursday challenge.

I've not had much "me" time but I did manage to get this card done today. I was a good girl and only used papers from my scraps box (that's an achievement for me)

I Used:
Papers - Basic Grey
Cardstock - Papermill
Flowers - Prima
Ribbon - Stash
Brads - Papermania

At last I have some time to breathe

2008-06-12T19:26:00.002+01:00

Life has been a little busy for me this week so not had much time for crafting.

Daughter 1 has been busy with GCSEs and revision this week.

Daughter 2 is always busy but right now she is at a film night so at least I have a little "quiet" time.

My Son is now at the Download festival and in the true tradition of "men" needed to have his entire weekend away organised (and Rucksack packed) by Mum.

He is sharing a tent with a college friend whose Step Father forgot to pack the waterproofing for the tent. Thankfully tents are for sale on site and I packed bin liners (which my son raised his eyebrows over) so they should stay dry-ish.

Daughter 2's teacher is due to have a baby in the summer holidays (which I mentioned in a previous post) and this is the Baby Bouquet we made for her. I ducked out of taking it in for her and left Hubby to deal with the blubbing!

Tilda & Co ~~ 23 ~~ Swirls

2008-06-08T12:54:00.003+01:00

Challenge 23 SWIRLS

An easy one for you all this week , for those that are still getting over the shock from last weeks challenge!I heard you all shouting at me when you realised it was no cards!Right this week is swirls, You can do what you like aslong as it has swirls involved somehow.

Of course you work must involve atleast 1 Magnolia StampAlso please note you can use other stamps on this blog,But there must be a Magnolia Stamp on there also somewhere.Hope that clears that little question up for some people.

The stars on my card are Sizzix die cuts - I doodled dotty swirls on one, my quartered flowers have been stamped with Magnolia swirls, I added some wire swirls - fastened with brads.

Cute Card Thursday ~13~ Xmas Cards

2008-06-05T17:48:00.003+01:00

This is my entry for Cute card Thursday where the challenge is to make Xmas cards.

I have used Simon & Lola and coloured them to match the backing papers which are from DCWV. The sentiment stamp is from Clevercut.

We are blessed with lots of sun today so I am hoping that this card will have a wintery feel to it by Christmas.

Sweet Sugar Challenge 7

2008-06-04T12:14:00.003+01:00

I made this candle for the Sweet Sugar Challenge blog, where the challenge is to make something that is not a card.

I am loving these new Sugar Nellies and thought this one would look fab on a candle. A first for me as I have never decorated a candle before and I will certainly be doing it again.

Many thanks to the lovely Jakki for the inspiration and the link.

PTW To Die For & Funky Fairys ~23~

2008-06-04T12:00:00.005+01:00

This is my entry for the PTW challenge, which is "simply to use die cuts" . This card also fits nicely with the Funky Fairys challenge 23 - Buttons and Beads.

This card is for my daughter's teacher who is leaving soon to have her first baby. I thought that pregnant Tilda looks a lot like her, now I just need to finish the Baby Bouquet!

Tilda & Co ~22~ Non Card Week

2008-06-01T11:57:00.004+01:00

This is my First DT project for Tilda & Co. This week the challenge is...

NONE CARD WEEK!

Now you may be looking at the title and thinking what? No cards? But i only make cards?Now is the time to experience New things!,For this challenge you are NOT allowed to make a Card,Now there is so many things you can do with Magnolia Stamps, You only have to look @ Myself & the Design Teams work this week!You could do a Gift Tag, Bookmark, Atc, Scrapbook(layout)Page, Gift Bag, Book The possibilities are endless!So The rules are, Anything as long as it isn't a card, Has to have at least 1 Magnolia Stamp on ( remember it doesn't have to be Tilda or Edwin) , And last of all most important one is HAVE FUN!!!

As soon as I heard what the challenge was I went straight for my Bind It All!

Like many of you I save all the board I can get my hands on (packing materials, back covers of pads etc) as it is perfect for making the covers. For the inside pages I used a Post-it sticky note pad. I live in a busy household with a lot of comings and goings, telephone messages and so on. Post-it notes are essential for us to all keep tabs on one another but I do find that the pads are unsightly.

The width of my covers are six inches, I find that it is better to work in imperial measurements with the Bind It All as it is an imperial machine lol. I'm only mentioning this 'cos I ruined a good few projects before I figured it out! The depth was decided by the Post-it (sticky notes) pad. I then covered the bare board in K & Co paper before cutting the binding holes. I folded an offcut of the same paper to make the pen loop and stuck it to the inside back cover (checking the pen would fit first).

I chalked up the edges with Cats Eyes Liquid Chalk pads and then with the Post-it note between the covers I bound it all together. I then decorated the front cover with my chosen images, some flowers and brads.

I think that I'll make another with magnetic tape on the back to put on the fridge :)

My New Stamps Arrived

2008-05-30T18:18:00.005+01:00

OMG...I have been so spoilt this week. My Paper Gator finally arrived last week. I pre- ordered at the end of Feb 'cos I was fed up with my dodgy cormer rounder. Got the chance to play today and it cuts through everything like a knife cutting through butter.

Today my Sugar Nellies (previously I wasn't sold but these new designs are just too good to miss) and my Dreamkuts arrived...yippie!

Anyway this is my card for Cute Card Thursday
. Obviously I have used a Sugar Nellies stamp but I also used the Paper Gator to round the corners and shape the edges of my layering just by reversing the blade. Can't wait to try that out on mini books!

I Used:
Paper - K & Co
Cardstock - Papermill
Adhesive Pearls & Gems - Papermania
Flowers - Prima
Ribbon - Stash
Stamps - Sugar Nellies & Hero Arts

Some news and a new blinkie

2008-05-28T17:17:00.003+01:00

I've had a blog for a little while but never really did anything with it until March. Like many others I was (and still am) addicted to Magnolia stamps. The Tilda & Co challenge blog was the first blog I came across that made my jaw hit the floor!!! The quality of the cards, especially from the DT blew me away and inspired me to improve.

So you can imagine how I felt when I received an email asking me if I would like to be a member of the Tilda & Co Design Team! It took me all of two seconds to say yes. I still can't believe it and have been walking around with such a stupid grin on my face that my cheeks hurt!

I am very honoured to have been asked and hope that I'm up to the task lol.

PTW One for the Fella's!

2008-05-26T15:51:00.004+01:00

Over at PTW the challenge is to make a male card. This is my effort. It is for a lovely man who has taken my visually impaired daughter to school for the last year in his taxi, free of charge.

I Used:
Papers - K & Co
Cardstock - DCWV
Circles - Nestabilities
Stamp - Little Claire Designs
Text - Printed on the computer

Tilda & Co ~21~ Torn

2008-05-25T16:32:00.005+01:00

The challenge this week over at Tilda & Co is...

Challenge 21...TORN/TEAR

Would love to see your Torn/Tear work,This could be a simple little tear on a part of your work or the main focus, Have fun and just go crazy! Tear your wonderful Papers get them used!Once again your work must have at least 1 Magnolia Stamp on there somewhere, And your work can be anything you want, Altered Art, Card, Atc, Bookmark, Canvas's board.

Thought that I would try something a little different so no Faux Stitching!!! I still used Basic Grey papers though so no change there.

I went to a show yesterday and picked up some goodies, one of which was a set of clear stamps which I have used as embellishments on the two opposing corners of my card. I cut them using Nestabilities and then foam mounted them to add some depth.

Cute Card Thursday #11

2008-05-22T14:34:00.003+01:00

This is my take on the Cute Card Thursday sketch by the wonderful Katharina.

I seem to be stuck in a Tilda phase at the moment...lol. I decided not to use a sentiment and went for buttons rather than flowers. I am waiting for petite oval Nestabilities so used the X-cut shape cutter and scalloped edged scissors for the image and frame. I mixed contemporary and traditional Laura Ashley papers on my card.

PTW Katharina's Sketch #3

2008-05-19T15:32:00.004+01:00

The challenge this week at PTW is to create a card following Katharina's sketch.

This is another wonderful sketch and such a joy to play with. I had so much fun and the whole card came together really quickly. I am a big fan of skecthes but Katharina's sketches are something else!

Tilda & Co ~~ 20~~ Beads of Glory

2008-05-18T12:18:00.004+01:00

I have made two cards for this weeks Tilda & Co challenge. The DT cards are stunning as ever, oh to have their talent.

I had a slight problem with the challenge this week because the only beads I have are very small so my daughter raided her beads for me but we still didn't find many. I think I may have to add beads to my ever expanding shopping list now! Sitting Tilda has been coloured using prismacolors and the other image has been watercoloured.

Tilda & Co ~~ 19~~ Black & White.

2008-05-12T23:17:00.004+01:00

This week over at the Tilda & Co challenge blog the theme is black and white.

*Challenge 19*
It's time for a bit of black and white theme, ideally no other colours to be used on you work.
(but if you are struggling with this then your magnolia image ( or 1 of if using more than 1 )may have 1 more colour of your choice.

Once again work must include a magnolia stamp, and could be anything aslong as it is arty crafts.

I found this to be very tricky because I like working with colours. So sorry that Tilda's face is smudgy looking, I used Tim Holtz black soot ink and I think it moved with the zest-it! Tilda has a paper pieced dress and ribbon. Her belt and boots are heat embossed.

I Used:
Paper - DCWV
Cardstock - Papermill
Dots and stitches - Sakura Souffle white
Scallop - Nestabilities
Stamps - Magnolia

Challenge ISMAKI #19

2008-05-12T18:33:00.005+01:00

This week the ISMAKI challenge is to follow the layout and “LET IT SPARKLE”.

The photo is not very clear but I have doodled glitter swirls and dots on this card. I really love layout challenges, although I wish that hadn't used stickers on this card.

I Used:
Paper - Three Bugs In A Rug
Cardstock - Papermill
Ribbon & Buttons - Stash
Stickers & Glitter Glue - Papermania
Stamp - Penny Black

PTW Luscious Lime and Lilac!

2008-05-12T15:41:00.004+01:00

I am feeling all fresh and summery with all this good weather, my back seems to be much better now after rebelling over the weekend.

This is my entry for the PTW
What a lovely theme again this week.

I Used:
Paper - DCWV
Cardstock - DCWV
Flower - Petaloo
Button & Heart - Stash
Stamp - Flower Top Maggie from Bootiful Stampz

Cute Card Thursday...Gems

2008-05-09T16:20:00.003+01:00

This is my entry for the Cute Card Thursday Challenge.

Challenge 9

Gems and Jewels This week our challenge is to use gems or jewels on your card, it's as easy as that!

It has taken me a little while to make this card as I seem to have put my back out when I was brushing my teeth!!! I'm right handed (so brush with my right hand) and my left shoulder and side are in spasm. How bizarre is that?

I used :
Paper - K&Co
Cardstock - Papermill
Flowers - Prima
Tags - Sizzix
Ribbon - Stash
Brads & Gems - Papermania
Stamp - Magnolia

Claudia's Accordian Card Tutorial!

2008-05-05T18:24:00.006+01:00

This is my entry for the Papertake Weekly Challenge which is to make an accordian card following the instructions on the blog page. Super fun and very easy.

I Used,
Paper - K&Co
Cardstock - Papermill
Die cut stars - Sizzix
Stamps - Magnolia

Decoupage Tilda & Co

2008-05-04T15:56:00.006+01:00

This weeks challenge at Tilda & co is Decoupage.

"Decoupage Tilda & Co
Now for this week..... I would love to see you decoupage with your magnolia stamps.
This could be as simple as having a Tilda or Edwin, that is holding something, you then stamp that image out twice, cut out the item he/she is holding and then layer it up with foam pads or silicone glue, to give a 3d effect
Or you could go totally wild and build up lot’s of layers.
Please remember your work could be a card, Layout(scrapbook page) Atc, Altered Item, anything you like! alsong as your work has Magnolia Stamp on there somewhere."

I couldn't manage to get a really good photo but I have decoupaged Tilda's hair and dress. I really quite enjoyed this challenge and loved the way these papers went together.

I Used:
Paper - K&Co
Cardstock - Papermill
Flowers - Prima
Buttons & thread - stash
Brads - Papermania
Eyelets - Making Memories

CCT #8 In The Garden

2008-05-02T00:09:00.005+01:00

This is my card for the Cute Card Thursday Challenge. The theme is "In The Garden" where we have to create a card/project "Could be people gardening, having fun in the garden, a garden scene or perhaps some little animals you might find in the garden."

I meant to upload my card earlier but since the girls got home from school I have been busy with other things and then forgot! A little late to be blogging but hey...sleep is for the weak!

I Used:
Paper - Basic Grey & Papermania
Cardstock - Papermill
Flowers - Prima
Brads - Papermania
Chalk - Pebbles Inc
Ribbon - Poppicrafts
Stamps - Magnolia
Coloured with Prismacolors, Sakura Clear Stardust Pen and H2o's

Yay..for me,

2008-04-30T19:34:00.004+01:00

thank you for hoping that the postman comes soon...he came today with my new Tilda's from Sparklybits and the Spring StampClub kit from Magnolia. Nothing for hubby though :(

Well after Ez mounting the club kit I just had to have a play. I am also entering this card for Mand's blog candy where she would like to see cards with Faux stitching on them. Seems to be something that I just can't stop doing these days!

I Used:
Paper - Basic Grey
Cardstock - Papermill
Brads - Papermania
Small Flowers - Prima
Large Flower & Ribbon - Poppicrafts
Button - Local shop
Stamp - Spring StampClub Kit - Magnolia

Challenge Ismaki #17

2008-04-29T14:06:00.004+01:00

This is my entry for the Challenge Ismaki #17
. I have never taken part before but thought that I'd give it a go today.

I found this layout to be quite interesting and it gave me a chance to use craft wire and beads again.

I Used:
Paper - Basic Grey
Cardstock - DCWV & Papermill
Faux Stitching - Cutter Bee Bug and Zig Marker
Ribbon - Poppicrafts
Eyelets - Stash
Wire - Stash
Beads - Stash
Stamp - Magnolia

Where is my mail?

2008-04-29T13:45:00.004+01:00

The postman has spent all week avoiding me, ok so I was down at the same pub as him on Saturday night. I did say hi, I didn't get drunk (that happened later at the night club where Hubby and I drank ourselves through far too much money) I can remember everything and we didn't even have hangovers...so why is he not bringing me any post?

I want my Magnolia stampclub package, some Magnolia's from a site I have never used before, Do Crafts are sending me something to make a card for their next mag (hope it's Basic Grey or Doodlebug!) and Hubby is waiting for some shields. Oh the agony!!!

Anyway, this was meant to be a post about this card, not a rant. This is my entry for My Paper World sketch #9 and for Papertake Weekly
Elegant Embossing

I Used:
Paper - Making Memories
Cardstock - DCWV & Papermill
Eyelets - Making Memories
Brads - Doodlebug Designs
Ribbon - Poppicrafts
Stamp - Magnolia
Cuttlebug Embossing Folder and sanding block

Tilda & Co ~17~ EYE EYE ITS A NATURAL FEELING

2008-04-28T16:17:00.004+01:00

This is my entry for the Tilda & Co challenge. This weeks theme is "EYE EYE ITS A NATURAL FEELING"

"For this week's challenge it's abit of a double up,I Would like to see you use Eyelets if possible ( if you do not own them, then you can leave that part out or use brads)Along with anything Natural, Could be fibres, Leaves, Straw, Twigs, Papers etc as long as it is Natural with Eyelets ( if you have them )"

I don't really have any natural products in my stash. I did have some darice twigs but for the life of me I can't remember where they are. I ended up using a sort of rafia.

I Used:
Paper - Basic Grey
Cardstock - Papermill
Brads - Papermania
Flower - Prima
Buttons - Local needlework shop
Rafia - Stash

I've Been Tagged

2008-04-24T22:09:00.002+01:00

Crafty Wanderings tagged me, so here are seven facts about me, which you may or may not find interesting...lol.

1. I was born in Guernsey.

2. I am morbidly fascinated by serial killers.

3. I used to play AD&D (Advanced Dungeons & Dragons) every week.

4. My favourite band of all time is Great White.

5. I prefer the smell of petrol to perfume.

6. I used to play netball for the County

7. I was blessed by Pope John Paul II

Now I have to tag 5 other people and they are:

Cathy, Cass, Mand, Debs and Suzy

Cute Card Thursday Challenge 7 "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun"

2008-04-24T13:24:00.005+01:00

This is my entry for the Cute Card Thursday challenge. The theme this week is "Girls just wanna have fun".

I really wanted to avoid pink after my last card so I decided to go with this paper from DCWV. It has a salmon tone to it so I wondered if I could tie in some orange also...I think that I have just about pulled it off.

I'm not too happy with Tilda. I find anything from the yellow and orange pallette really hard.

I Used:
Paper - DCWV
Cardstock - Papermill
Ribbon - Papermania
Brad & Eyelets - Papermania
Flower - Prima
Stamp - Magnolia (oops seem to be on a phase with them at the mo)

Papertake Weekly Katharina's Sketch #2

2008-04-21T18:01:00.004+01:00

This is my take on the wonderful sketch challenge from Katharina at PTW.

I love working from sketches (as I think I've mentioned a few times now) but this was an absolute dream to work from.

This card is going to be sent to someone on the Do Crafts forum to say thank you for all the wonderful Penny Black challenges. If you know who I'm talking about, please don't let on because as far as I'm aware she doesn't visit my blog (if you do Samantha, fess up now! lol)

Tilda & Co Girly But Blue ~16~

2008-04-21T13:00:00.004+01:00

This week on the Tilda & Co challenge blog the task is

"Girly but Blue!You don't see many girl cards/projects in blue very often, They are normally pink! Well i would love you to make your projects this week in BLUE! Has to be suitable for a female. This is a pretty broad challenge this week, It could be a simple card, A altered art project etc"

So here is my effort, normally I love working with blue but I'm not too sure that this one works.

I Used:
Paper - Basic Grey & DCWV
Cardstock - Papermill & DCWV
Adhesive Gems - Papermania
Ribbon - Stash
Button - Papermania
Flower - Petaloo
Nestabilities
Stamps - Magnolia (obviously)
Faux stitching was created with the help of my new Cutter Bee Bugs, they're awesome, if you don't own one you should lol!

Cute Card Thursday "It's a man's world!" #6

2008-04-17T14:14:00.005+01:00

This week @ CCT the challenge is "It's a man's world!" where they would like to see cards made for the men and boys in your life.

Perfect challenge and on a perfect day too as my son is out for the day! This card will be from his youngest sister.

I used:
Paper - Basic Grey
Cardstock - Papermill
Buttons - stash
Brads - Poppicrafts
Die cut wording - Sizzix
Stamped wording - Making Memories Magnetic Stamps
Stamped Image - Shy Edwin and mini skull and crossbones - Magnolia

Arty Girlz Challenge #30 'Ribbons'

2008-04-16T18:24:00.004+01:00

Although I have had quite a busy day I did find the time to make my 16 year old daughter a notebook (because she saw my Tilda notebook and she wanted one of her own). It's really nice for me to make things for her again. She has been having treatment for a recurring brain tumour, which she has had since she was 4, and hasn't really had the energy to ask for anything. Now a year on from her two year course she is really starting to get back to her old girly self (just in time for her GCSE's lol)

Anyway this is also my entry for the Arty Girlz Challenge.

I Used:
K&Co paper
Bind It All
Maggie & Patch Stamp from Bootiful Stampz
Ribbons from local shop
Prima Flower with a Papermania Brad
Cuttlebug Embossing Folder

Spoilt...moi?

2008-04-16T18:12:00.002+01:00

The postman paid me a visit today at 12.45!!! I forgave him though as he had some parcels for me. One from Cutting Edge Crafts, two from Joanna Sheen and one from Sir Stampalot...yippee! I have been like a kid in a candy shop all afternoon and all my Christmas's came at once!

To top that off we bought Mario Kart for the Wii today, looks like a fab game. I came 11th and then 12th so I can't get any worse lol.