Blush Crafts

Cakes and Confetti...

2012-02-15T19:25:00.002Z

Just stopped by to share my Valentine's day makes. So boring making cards for men, no pink, no ribbon, no lace. To relieve the total boredom, I filled my heart with a confetti pocket. So easy to make, just punch holes in co-ordinating papers to create the confetti. I used a two hole punch, the office kind.

Sandwich the confetti between two sheets of transparent film and stitch around the edges so it can't escape. Then attach the pocket inside the card.

I made some chocolate cupcake hearts too, using a little trick I picked up on Pinterest.

Source: musesofmegret.com via Rebecca on Pinterest

Use marbles to make heart shape cupcakes with a regular pan.

it works too!

Sweet Wishes...

2012-02-14T09:26:00.001Z

Playing catch up this week. Here's my make for the Bubbly Scrumptious blog that I should have posted on Saturday. All the details are HERE

Do you ever have a design in your head that just doesn't quite transfer to paper? Well, this card is one of mine. Still not quite right for me, but I'm not ready to bin it just yet!

Don't forget you've still got a week to enter the Flower Power challenge over at Let's Craft and Create.
Happy Valentine's Day!...

Valentine...

2012-02-10T10:24:00.000Z

I've been trying out some different card shapes and folds this week. It's too cold in my craft room, so no full-scale crafting for me this week, just a few supplies on a tray in front of the TV!
I like this little accordian fold I've found, perfect for a matching image and sentiment and using up paper scraps.
To make it, take a piece of card 3 1/2" by 11" and score at 1 1/2", 3",5 1/2" and 8 ".
I've used 'Just An Old Fashioned Girl' and 'Perfect' collections from Pink Petticoat

Other Suppies::
Nestabilities - Postage Stamps
Silver Raffia Ribbon - recycled from Christmss wrapping!

Flower Power...

2012-02-07T13:06:00.001Z

My friends are turning 50 - how did that happen,? I had two 50th Birthday cards to make this month, this one is my DT make for the Flower Power challenge over at Let's Craft and Create.
I can't stop making these rolled roses, there's plenty of different dies and die cuts out there to make them with. But, I like to make them the 'old school' way - with scissors!

Cut a spiral, then cut back into the outside edge of the spiral and create a wavy edge. Then roll up into the centre and secure with a large glue dot or blob of wet glue.

You can create different effects by slightly squashing the finished flower, inking the edges or by using decorative edge scissors, loads of possibilities. What I kinda like about making them by hand is that no two flowers are the same, just like nature!

Check out the Let's Craft and Create blog for some more Flower Power projects from the DT, and don't forget you get a fortnight to join in the fun and there's a lovely prize on offer for one lucky entry.

Maya Road Envelope Card...

2012-02-04T15:20:00.001Z

I've had a stash of these lovely Maya Road kraft envelopes for a while now. One of those impulse purchases I just had to have. I've used them before as a tag pocket. But, it's taken me a time to come up with a different way to use them - until now...

I slit open the sides carefully with a letter opener to make a card wrap.

Covered the inside with patterned paper, creating a panel to add a greeting.

It's my make for the Bubbly Scrumptious blog this week. You can nip over there if you'd like more info and the supplies list.
Thanks for visiting today and all your lovely comments, they're very much appreciated. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

Valentine Fun...

2012-02-01T15:22:00.000Z

Taking a break from paper and glue today and having some fun making a heart shaped zip brooch.
Super easy to make, I started with a 12" zip, although it needn't be that long an 8" zip would probably do, or you could even recycle a zip from an old skirt or dress. Just trim off the ends and secure into a heart shape with a needle and thread, add a brooch back and you're done!

Don't forget you've still got almost a week left to join in the Valentine challenge over at Let's Craft and Create, it would be lovely to see you there.

Less is More...

2012-01-30T12:34:00.000Z

I took a trip out to London's flower lover heaven yesterday - Columbia Road Flower Market. Well worth a visit if you get the opportunity. It was full of the most beautiful roses, tulips, lilies and exotics in every colour imaginable. I came home full of inspiration to make my card, using some of my favourite things - paisley, pink and paper roses.

It's for the sketch challenge over on the Less is More blog. I'm a 'Less is More' kinda girl, and plan to join in each week but time usually runs out for me, so I'm really pleased to have made it this week! :)

Recycled Paper Card Blank
Crepe Paper
Colorbox Chalk Ink
Papermania Sentiment Stamp
K&Co Patterned Paper

Look Whoo's 1...

2012-01-28T09:57:00.001Z

Three years of card making and I'd never made an owl - until this week and now I'm hooked, there's owls all over the craft room. I blame Papercraft Inspirations - there's a great feature on owl cards in this month's issue.
The My Minds Eye - Dwell papers from Bubbly Funk were just perfect for this 1st birthday card. and it's my project for today over on the Bubbly Scrumptious blog. There's a 'how-to make it' on this PAGE.

Thanks for visiting today and enjoy your weekend. I've got a couple of 50th birthday cards to make and I'm just wondering if I could get away with owls for those too - maybe not !;)

Measure For Measure...

2012-01-25T17:02:00.003Z

Now for something completely different...

Tape Measure Rose

It's sneak peek week over on the Maya Road blog, where I spied a rose made with their new vintage tape measure trim. I thought I've got to make one, those cards will just have to wait.
I went on a hunt for a tape measure, got out the hot glue gun and this is the result - looks even better pinned to my grey coat...
Now I really must finish those cards :)

Pick a Cake...

2012-01-24T13:00:00.000Z

I had one of those days yesterday when nothing seems to go right, I just couldn't get my card to work, so I scrapped it and made some cake picks instead.

It's for the challenge over at Let's Craft and Create and the theme this time is 'Valentine'. It doesn't have to be a Valentine card or project especially, just anything that you associate with the word 'Valentine' - hearts, love, red, pink...

Check out the BLOG for all the details and the lovely creations from the DT, we'd love to see you join in with us this time and don't forget you've got until 7th Feb to enter.

Now I'm off to put the kettle on... :)

Stampin Up Very Vanilla Cardstock
Colorbox Chalk Ink
Inkadinkado Heart Stamp
Fiskars Decorative Scissors - Scallop

Fun With Flocking...

2012-01-23T12:07:00.001Z

I've been having a tidy and come across a set of flocking powder from Studio G. Never used it before and wasn't really sure what to do with it. The packet says to use a rubber stamp and glue pad, didn't have a glue pad, so I used a glue pen to flock the spots on this giraffe, the starting point of my card. I kept the texture theme going by adding glamour dust to the fluffy clouds, crepe paper grass, a lace border and some dew drops.
I do enjoy finding a use for all those unused products hiding deep down in the crafty stash. I'm going to delve into another box and see what else I can find!

Pink Petticoat Fluffy Clouds and Baby giraffe
Pink Bakers Twine and Dew Drops - The Ribbon Girl
Flat Cotton lace - Hobbycraft
Glamour Dust
Studio G Flocking - The Range

Ribbon Tips and Tricks...

2012-01-21T10:33:00.002Z

It's Saturday, my day to post over on the Bubbly Scrumptious blog. This week I've used this card to share some tips and tricks to help get a professional finish when using Ribbon and Ric Rac on your cards and projects. You can find it HERE.

I've got some news to share today too. Remember THIS card, well it's been featured in Papercraft Inspirations this month (issue 96), in the Beautiful blogs feature on page 88. Here's a photo of the page.

I'm doing a little happy dance, just as well I'm home alone. Now it's a lovely bright day here, the sun is streaming through the windows of my craft room so a perfect day to get that pile of cards finished. I'll be back tomorrow with another 'Baby' card.

Looking back...

2012-01-17T10:28:00.002Z

This week I've moved on to 'Baby' cards, and this is the first of a few. The image is from the Pink Petticoat 'Sweet Cheeks' collection. Which, would you believe, was the first digi kit I bought when I started on my card making journey back in February 2009. The first card I made with it is deep in the archives of the blog, I've just looked back at it and I'm cringing!!! But, we all have to start somewhere and I never would have guessed I'd still be here 3 years later. One of my first followers is still following and commenting on my work, thank you Paula.

Pink Petticoat - Sweet Cheeks, Tiny Leopard Print and Vintage Stars, Tiny (New Baby) Sentiments
Stampin Up Crumbcake Cardstock
Bakers Twine from The Ribbon Girl
Crepe Paper
Glamour Dust

More Thank Yous...

2012-01-15T09:16:00.003Z

Today I have a confession make, I Love Ribbon, closely followed by Ric Rac and Lace! I think I'd really struggle to make a card without them! So, for this card I've made the grosgrain bow the focal point.

and used grosgrain and ric rac for the stem and leaves for this card.
If you're a ribbon fan too, then why not join in with the latest challenge over at The Ribbon Girl blog. The colour theme this month is blue and pink.

Winners are chosen at random and there's two lovely prizes up for grabs, a beautiful selection of ribbons from The Ribbon Girl shop and a Gift voucher for LOTV - check out the blog for all the details and see the beautiful creations from the rest of the Ribbon Girls.

From The Ribbon Girl Shop
Light Blue Plain 16mm Grosgrain
Pale Rose Pink Tiny Ric Rac
Pearl Button
Papers: Pink Petticoat Vintage Rose and Woodgrain
Stampin Up Crumb Cake Cardstock
Martha Stewart Embossed Zig Zag Border Punch
Crepe Paper

Thank You Heart...

2012-01-14T10:44:00.001Z

I found this cool technique whilst browsing on Homespun With Heart, Danielle Flanders is one of my favourite card designers and if you like, what I like to call 'clean shabby chic' then her blog is well worth a visit.
The technique is oh so simple, one of those that you wish you'd thought of - Debossing with chipboard.
I found that larger shapes on textured card work best and after a bit of faffing with my Cuttlebug plates the sandwich I used was, from the bottom, A plate, C plate, B plate, cardstock then chipboard.

Here's the finished card, hope you can see the heart, it looks a lot more defined in 'real life'!

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy your weekend. I'll be back tomorrow with the new Ribbon Girl challenge.

Papers: Echo Park Victoria Gardens
Melissa Frances Transfer
Seam Binding from The Ribbon Girl
Crepe Paper for the frill
Papermania heart gem

Let's Craft and Create...

2012-01-10T12:52:00.000Z

Another of my many Thank You cards, this one is for the 'Butteflies' challenge over at Let's Craft and Create.

And... drum roll please...

I'm very pleased to be sharing the news that I'm joining the Let's Craft and Create Design Team and this is my first project as Design Team member. I'm really looking forward to working with such a talented team.

For any of you not familiar with their challenges, they run for a fortnight, so plenty of time to enter. The themes are always pretty open to interpretation and you can enter any of your hand crafted projects - doesn't have to be paper. The main objective is to have fun with your crafting! Oh, and last but not least, there's a prize for one lucky entry, chosen at random. Hope to see you over there!

Basic Grey Out of Print - Pape Pad Die Cuts and Pops

Cuttlebug Embossing Folder - Textile

Hero Arts Sparkle Clear - Thank You

Crepe Paper Frill

Thank You Flower...

2012-01-07T14:57:00.000Z

I finally found some inspiration for my 'Thank You' cards and this is the first one of many I'll be posting over the next few days, all with a flower theme and using crepe paper.

It's my make for the Bubbly Scrumptious blog this week and there's a how-to make it and supplies list over on the blog HERE .

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy the rest of the weekend. I must get back to the dreaded accounts.

Edited to add: The embossing folder I've used is Cuttlebug - Distressed Stripes.

Craft Clearance...

2012-01-05T10:36:00.001Z

For those of you that aren't already aware, QVC are having a Craft Clearance to make way for some lovely new products. There's lots of bargains to be had. You can still catch a couple more shows, 1pm today and again tomorrow at 1pm when I think Kirsty is the craft guest.
Here's just one of the cards I've made for the Craft Shows, it made a brief appearance on a show last week just before these lovely Prima Paloma flowers sold out...

Must get back to the Craft Room, I've 'Thank you' cards to make and I'm struggling for inspiration!

Happy New Year...

2012-01-01T11:22:00.003Z

Here's a card to wish all my readers and followers a Happy Hew Year, and to thank you for all your support and inspiration.

I'm entering it for the The Shabby Tea Room challenge - 'A Colourful and Shabby New Year!' you must check out the blog, there's some beautiful creations from the Shabby Girls to inspire us. I'd also like to thank the Shabby Girls for choosing my Santa card as the The Shabby Tea Room winner last week - I'm honoured!

Papers: Echo Park Victoria Gardens
Prima Acrylic Stamp - lamp trim
Vintage Image - The Graphics Fairy
Silky Crush Ribbon and Leaf pin from The Ribbon Girl

Christmas Round up...

2011-12-31T09:44:00.000Z

I'm having trouble moving on from Christmas mode, but I promise this will be my last Christmas project until next year! An easy peasy vintage tree decoration. I saw something similar in Selfridges selling for about £10! - I could make that for £1 - and here it is, so simple.

Take a vintage Chrsitmas image and adhere to a piece of cardstock. Trim and adhere a piece of acetate to front. Edge with aged lace using 3mm high tack DS tape and add a ribbon hanger to finish.

I had a long list of projects I wanted to make for this Christmas, I even bought the supplies - various styrofoam shapes, spray paints and wooden letters to name but a few! But, time ran away with me and they're all still sitting in the cupboard. There's always next year...

Vintage image - Beatriz Jennings

White Cluny Lace coloured with Distress ink - Antique Linen
5mm Red and white Gingham ribbon
3mm sticky Tape
all from The Ribbon Girl

Don't forget you've still got time to enter this challenge...

My Favourite Shirt....

2011-12-28T14:49:00.003Z

Hope you all enjoyed your Christmas, and thanks so much for all your lovely comments and festive wishes.

Just stopped by to share a 'Man' Birthday card I had to rustle up before Christmas. A super easy one, I created a shirt using some Core'dinations distress cardstock. Machine stitched around the collar and the edge, created a tie with patterned paper and added a rubon sentiment.

Now I'm off to eat chocolates and play with my favourite present - Martha Stewart Scoring Board :)

Core'dinations Distress in Faded Jeans
Patterned paper from Pink Petticoat - Big Fella Collection
Melissa Frances Rubon

A Kraft-y Christmas...

2011-12-24T08:49:00.000Z

Well the big day is almost here, and here's my last Christmas card for the year. The inspiration came from THIS santa card, but I've put my own spin on it using bookprint paper and kraft cardstock.
The sentiment is from the new release from Pink Petticoat - Heartfelt Christmas Sentiments, I've printed it on Letraset Safmat.

I'm entering it in the current challenge over on The Shabby Tea Room - to use kraft, red, newsprint, silver and a star!

Real Red and Crumb Cake cardstock - Stampin Up
Bookprint paper - Basic Grey Out of Print
Fiskars Star Punch - Large
Silver Button - MME

Happy Holidays!

Anything Goes...

2011-12-22T16:41:00.003Z

Anything Goes is the theme over on Let's Craft and Create, so no excuses for not joining in this time is there?

This is my penultimate Christmas card, a whimsical one for my nearest and dearest. I love Liz's new Heartfelt Christmas Sentiments and I think they're just perfect for whimsical cards. I can't take credit for the rosette snowman, I copied the idea from a card over on Moxie Fab.

Pink Petticoat: Lots of Really Big Dots and Heartfelt Christmas Sentiments
Bakers Twine from The Ribbon Girl

Vintage Inspired Tree Decoration...

2011-12-21T09:36:00.001Z

A bit late for making tree decorations now I know but you could put it on the list for next Christmas!

This is the project I posted over on the Bubbly Scrumptious last week. I used a Maya Road chipboard Coaster for the base, patterned paper, some embossing and lots of glitter - I'm still hoovering it up!

There's a full tutorial over on the Bubbly Scrumptious Blog.

White Seam Binding from The Ribbon Girl

It's Christmas...

2011-12-18T09:07:00.002Z

well nearly... with a whole week left to go I'm sure you can still find time to enter the Ribbon Girl Challenge which starts today.

The colours for this month were chosen by me, and as usual Mary and Andrea have been very generous with the prizes. There's an extra special prize, as it's Christmas. Check out the blog for all the details and lots of fabulous, and I mean FAB-U-LOUS inspiration from the Ribbon Girls.

For my card, I was a bit tired of the CAS cards I've been making lately, so I've gone for a vintage theme for this one. The image is part of a set from Beatriz Jennings, check out her Etsy store HERE. Apart from the digital image and some vintage music paper I had in my stash, everything else on the card is from The Ribbon Girl shop.

Black and Ivory Striped Grosgrain
Seam Binding in Cream
Red Berries
Cluny Lace
Pearl Buttons
Bakers Divine Twine

Thanks for stopping by today.

Lavender Hearts...

2011-12-16T20:11:00.001Z

Here are my lavender bags as promised, another job crossed off the Christmas to-do list. There's a lovely smell of lavender around the house now, much to the annoyance of the men of the house who keep complaining of stinging eyes and feeling sick - what are they like?

Must go and finish decorating the tree now, I'm a bit behind, had to pop out for a replacement set of lights (there's a surprise). Luckily Homebase had a few sets left!:)x

Fabric - Tanya Whelan Darla Collection
Velvet ribbon
Vintage Pearl Buttons

Another Christmas Tree...

2011-12-15T08:47:00.000Z

Just stopping by to share another Christmas tree, not my idea, something I found whilst browsing - as you do.
Simple to make and simple supplies, all you need are loads of scallop circles, a wooden skewer and quite a bit of wet glue.

I've used Sizzix Famelits, there's 8 different size dies in the set so I've used 5 of each size. Just make a hole in the centre of each circle and stack them on the wooden skewer applying a blob of PVA between each layer to create some space between each layer. Add a star to the top, trim off the excess skewer and it's done.
Apart from braving the shops yet again today, I'm making lavender bags, hope to share a pic tomorrow.

Words to decorate...

2011-12-10T09:27:00.001Z

Over on the Bubbly Scrumptious blog, it's Product Focus week and this week we're focusing on wooden words. Each designer has a different word to decorate. I've gone for a 'Shabby Chic' look and created a photo display - just need to find some photos now...

There's a how-to make it over on the blog and lots more inspiration from the daily designers. Thank so much for visiting. :)

I'm back...

2011-12-07T14:17:00.001Z

With some Christmas cards - what else? Nearly made the 50 mark but not by the end of November as planned, but I'm almost there. The Pink Petticoat designs are great for the last minute makes, the images do all the talking and you only need some simple supplies - paper, cardstock and a few gems and glamour dust glitter - to make some really classy on-trend cards. With this set there's even inserts to just print and go.

Well I must go, I've got one more job on today's crafty to-do list and then I'll be round to catch up with all your blogs.

Pink Petticoat Christmas Diva Doodles, Soild Colour Gold from the Colour Collection
Black Grosgrain Ribbon from The Ribbon Girl

Customised Crackers...

2011-11-30T09:45:00.001Z

Last week over on the Bubbly Scrumptious blog I was customising 'Make your own cracker' kits. You can find all the details HERE.

Now I'm looking at these again - I'm not sure I like them, funny how that happens sometimes...Anyway, thanks for stopping by. After my busy week, things seem to be back to normality so I should be back with some cards later this week. She says hopefully!

O Christmas Trees...

2011-11-22T19:05:00.001Z

Busy, busy busy! I just realised I didn't post my Bubbly Scrumptious make on Saturday, so here it is.

Magazine Christmas Trees - I stumbled across a tutorial on You Tube, there's several on there with different ideas for decorating,. I think it was originally a Martha Stewart project. All you need are some old magazines and some glitter to make them.. I guarantee you'll be hooked, I've made 4 already, great to do in front of the TV watching 'I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here' I'm not a reality TV fan but I do love this one...

What else have I been up to, making more CAS Christmas cards...

are you bored with this design yet?!!

I'm sure you are, so I'll be back at the weekend with some Diva Doodles cards

Pink Petticoat Pointy Poinsettias, Sprinkles With Twinkles and Handwritten Christmas Greetings

More Christmas Wrapping...

2011-11-20T08:44:00.001Z

It's time for another colour challenge over at The Ribbon Girl blog and this month it's Pink and white.

I've been creating some more Christmas wrapping..

A pizza box decorated with Pale Pink Silky Crush ribbon and Heart Pins

and a pyramid box decorated with a Sparkly Button, Pink Bakers Divine Twine
Check out the blog for details on how to enter and lots more inspiration from the Design Team.

Papers, Images, Sentiments and Pyramid Box Template from Pink Petticoat

Christmas Wrapping...

2011-11-17T15:36:00.001Z

I've been playing with some Christmas wrapping ideas, the latest challenge over at The Shabby Tea Room sparked the idea for this one. The theme is 'Shabby Pastel Christmas' and there's a gorgeous photo and lots of lovely inspiration from the Design Team, pop on over and see for yourselves!

I've used the Pink Petticoat Pillow Box template and Vintage Stars and Tiny Trees
Thanks for visiting today :)

Pink Crush Ribbon - The Ribbon Girl
Sparkly Button - The Ribbon Girl
White Lace & Gem Trim - Selfridges

Christmas Lists!...

2011-11-12T13:54:00.001Z

This time of year I'm forever making lists. Present Lists, card lists, food lists, the list goes on...see what I did there?! ;) So for this week's Bubbly Scrumptious project I've made a 'Book of Lists'. All the details are HERE, But, basically I took a bunch of index cards, made a front and back cover from cardstock, decorated the front and bound them all together with a couple of book rings. I've even made a pocket inside for receipts...

How organised am I? It won't last...

Less is More...

2011-11-10T10:34:00.000Z

Today is crafting day for me so I've had another go at the Less Is More challenge, this week it's a colour theme - Red and Orange.

I've stamped directly onto card using a Hero Arts stamp and Distress Inks in Fired Brick and Spiced Marmalade. Have you seen the Winter Seasonal Distress inks? Gorgeous or what, might just have to have them ;)
Lot's of lovely inspiration from the LIM-ettes, I'm off now to have a proper look and then it's back to the Christmas cards...

Digi Printing Tip...

2011-11-08T18:58:00.001Z

Here I am with design number 2 in my Christmas Card Challenge. I've had a few questions about printing digital sentiments on patterned paper so I hope this little tip helps.

1. Print off one A4 sheet of patterned paper and trim a square/rectangle that is slightly larger that the size you need to fit your card blank.
2. Print your sentiment sheet on to copier paper.
3.Then with repositionable adhesive, adhere the patterned paper square over the top of the sentiment you'd like to print, keeping it as level as you can. I find that holding it up at the window helps here! :)

4. Print the sentiment sheet again on this sheet of copirer paper, by feeding it back through the printer. There you will have the sentiment printed on the patterned paper, all you need to do now is trim to fit your card front.

I made 6 cards from one sheet of A4 using this method! I do enjoy making my supplies go further :)

Pink Petticoat Lots of Really Big Dots and Handwritten Sentiments
Cuttlebug die for the Snowballs

Christmas Card Challenge...

2011-11-06T22:04:00.001Z

Remember yesterday I said I'd set myself a bit of a challenge. To make 50 Christmas cards before the month is out. Well, I've got a plan, they're all going to be 10 x 10 cm, with a CAS design - easy on the postage cost ;) and if I make 10 of each design I'll only need 5 different designs! Simple!

So here goes with the first one.

For those of you who are new to crafting with digital designs, I'll be back tomorrow with a tip on how to get the most from one A4 sheet.

Pink Petticoat Sprinkled With Twinkles, Berries and Handwritten Sentiments
Card Blanks - Craftwork Cards
Woodware Super Punch - Holly

Bloom...

2011-11-05T22:52:00.000Z

Here's my make for the Bubbly Scrumptious blog. This week I've used Echo Park - Victoria Gradens papers and made a bloom with the Tim Holtz Tattered Florals die. There's a tutorial to make the flowers HERE. and If you'd like to know how I made the scallop circle card base, you can find out right HERE.
Now I must get back to my Christmas cards, I'm on a mission to create 50 cards by the end of the month. I'm hoping to share the first batch tomorrow.

Stars, a Scarf and Chocolate Brownies...

2011-11-01T08:46:00.000Z

Yay! I've made a card! It's for the 'Less is More' challenge 'Stars'. Can't believe I've only just come across this challenge blog - I'm definitely a less is more kind of girl! I'm experimenting with using non-traditional Christmas colours this year and I love this Bubblegum pink. What do you think?

I've had a few requests to share my knitting and baking so here goes.

While I was at the Knitting and Stitching Show last month. I bought this fantastic loopy yarn from the lovely girls at Crafty Yarn. All you need is one ball of yarn, the pattern is on the ball band, and in no time you've got a pretty lacy scarf.

Chocolate brownies, it's a Nigella recipe from her last TV series. I've tried various brownie recipes and find this one is the easiest, quickest and tastiest!

It's going to be a Pink Petticoat Christmas for me this year, and the production line is in full swing, I'll be back to share some more Christmas designs very soon. Enjoy your Monday :)

Pink Petticoat Downloads: Handwritten Sentiments and Sprinkle of Twinkles

Fiskars Squeeze Punch - Star

Berisfords Satin Ribbon in Shocking Pink from The Ribbon Girl

Last Minute Halloween...

2011-10-29T17:08:00.000+01:00

My make over on the Bubbly Scrumptious blog this week is a Halloween card with a bit of a difference, To make it you don't need any Halloween stash, just some patterned paper, any patterned paper, it just needs to be pumpkin coloured! There's a how to- make it over on the blog.

This is the only card I've managed to create this week, don't know why I just can't get inspired with the paper and glue. So I've been knitting and baking instead. I hope to be back soon.

Christmas Is Coming...

2011-10-26T11:19:00.000+01:00

I've been playing with the wonderful new Christmas releases from Pink Petticoat and here's my first card using the Berries and Handwritten Sentiments downloads. Finished off with a sparkly button from the Ribbon Girl and some pearl beads.
I'll be back with some more makes before the week is out.

While I'm here I must just tell you about the lovely afternoon that Emma and I spent at QVC yesterday, first we had a tour of the 'Craft Prep' room, then some lovely lunch and just before leaving we sneaked in to the studio to see Marion's Creative Keeepsake show being filmed, what a day!

Edited to add: The Holly punch I've used is a Woodware one!

Jingle All The Way To Christmas...

2011-10-25T18:19:00.000+01:00

As it's 25th of the month it's time for another Jingle All The Way To Christmas challenge over on the Ribbon Girl blog.
To enter the challenge all you need to do is create a new Christmas themed project, blog about it mentioning this challenge then link your project over on the Ribbon Girl blog. The challenge will run for 2 weeks and will end on Tuesday 8th November at 9PM UK time.

For my card I used the gorgeous wavecrest seam binding and a tiny jingle bell. It's a poor photo - looks aand sounds a lot better in real life ! ;)

MME Snowed In Papers
Glamour Dust and Gems

Home Sweet Home...

2011-10-22T17:22:00.000+01:00

This week over on the Bubbly Funk blog it's Product Focus week, and we're focusing on Maya Road Chipboard and Eco Green ink pads.
I've made a mini album using a Maya Road Coaster set. Pop over to the blog for more info on my make and lots of mini album inspiration from my team mates.

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy the rest of your weekend. I'm getting busy with my knitting needles this evening, gotta finish my scarf, it's freezing! I shall post a pic when it's done!

Ribbon, Lace and Pom Pom Trim from The Ribbon Girl

Boo To You...

2011-10-20T17:55:00.001+01:00

Simple treat bags today. Just take 2 pieces of cardstock about 14 x 10cm, stitch together to form a bag and decorate with all your spooky stash. Tuck a paper/glassine bag of sweets inside and you're ready for when the trick or treaters come calling!

I'm entering them for the current challenge - 'One For The Kids' over on the Let's Craft and Create blog

Papers, sentiments and images: Pink Petticoat Spooky Doodlies
XCut Picket Fence Die
Glassine Bags

Winter Wedding?...

2011-10-18T14:53:00.000+01:00

Today is my turn to post over on the Bubbly Scrumptious blog. This week I've created a wedding card using a Tando chipboard carriage and Melissa Frances papers and cardstock stickers.

Don't forget there's a chance to win some lovely Jenni Bowlin products from the Bubbly Funk Shop - link on my sidebar.

Thanks for visiting today!

More Creepy Crafting...

2011-10-16T10:31:00.000+01:00

It's time for another colour challenge over on The Ribbon Girl blog. The colours of lilac and green were chosen for us by the lovely Kath.

I've made a hanging treat bag basket using a template from HERE

I've used:
Purple Button Twine
Mauve Stripe Twill
Lilac Cotton Scallop Lace

There's a lovely prize up for grabs for one lucky winner, so why not join in the fun this month.

Check out the blog for all the details and lots of lovely inspiration from the rest of the DT using ribbons, buttons, charms and lace all available from the Ribbon Girl online shop.

Papers: Pink Petticoat Spooky Doodlies
K&Co Spooky Stickers
Tissue paper, paper doilies, black tulle, fabric scraps and vintage glass button.

Creepy Crafting...

2011-10-13T19:40:00.001+01:00

I'm not really a Halloween fan, probably because I'm so easily scared lol! I do enjoy making Halloween projects though , so I just had to find time for this week's challenge over on the City Crafter Blog - A Boo-tiful Color Challenge. Now I really need to get back in the kitchen, those pots won't wash themselves.

Thanks for stopping by! :)

Papers: Pink Petticoat Spooky Doodlies
Ruffle Edge Ribbon and lace - The Ribbon Girl
Black netting, tissue paper and recycled zip

Christmas Crafting....

2011-10-12T14:25:00.001+01:00

Just a couple of Christmas cards I made using the Teresa Collins Noel Papers and Chipboard elements.

I've never worked with a complete kit before. I normally just go for the 6x6 paper pad and then it stays in the cupboard because none of my other supplies match it! Using a kit makes cardmaking a breeze, just perfect for Christams cards.

Teresa Collins Noel Kit
Bakers Twine and lace from The Ribbon Girl
Muslin and Cotton Twill Ribbon.
Antique Linen Distress Ink

My Crafting Journey...

2011-10-10T15:10:00.000+01:00

I've been making some card samples for the new Craft shows on QVC. Once the cards have been on-air I can post the pics here on my blog. So here are a couple that were on Dyan Reaveley's show a couple of weeks ago.

They were made with Claudine Hellmuth Creative Layers Stamps. So much fun to work with. I used acrylic paint with the foam stamp, let it dry, and then stamped over the top with the matching acrylic stamp and archival ink.

My cards on QVC, who'd have thought it. You never can tell where your crafting journey will take you...

A Treat Holder...

2011-10-07T14:15:00.000+01:00

Today I'm sharing how to make this simple treat holder over on the Bubbly Scrumptious blog. I've chosen a vintage style for mine but it could work for Halloween or Christmas. Go HERE for how to make it. Thanks for stopping by today. Must go, I'm off to the Knitting and Stitching show at Ally Pally tomorrow and I haven't written my shopping list yet!

If Nothing Ever Changed...

2011-10-06T20:16:00.001+01:00

Here's my card for this week's sketch 135 over at Card Patterns

Basic Grey Out of Print Papers and Layered Stickers
Fiskars Butterfly Shape Template
Simple Sentiments from Pink Petticoat
Seam Binding from The Ribbon Girl

New Inspiration Board Challenge...

2011-10-03T10:29:00.001+01:00

There's a new Inspiration Board challenge over on the Bubbly Scrumptious blog.

All you need to do is create something using this board as your inspiration. It could reflect the colours, be something that jumps out at you such as the hearts or flowers, or what the board suggests to you.

The prize is over £40 of Jenni Bowlin products!

Here's my project - another door hanging - love making these. For this one I've used lots of lovely Prima Products from the Bubbly Funk shop.
Check out the blog for the competition rules and lots more inspiration from the DT to get you going. Can't wait to see what you create!

Prima 6 x 6 Paper Pad - Romantique
Prima Flower - Poetic Whispers
Vintage pearl and glass buttons

Simple Sentiments...

2011-09-30T15:51:00.000+01:00

Now for something a little different - a door hanger. I used an acetate tag from Craftwork Cards as my base, covered it with patterned paper from the Brocade collection and vintage buttons and lace. Then finally, a mini peg to hold the Simple Sentiments. There's 48 different little affirmations, inspirational quotes & sayings in the set and I couldn't decide which one to add so with the peg I can change it according to the mood of the day! :)

Vintage Photo Frame...

2011-09-28T09:57:00.000+01:00

As you can see the distress inks haven't been put away - I'm still in 'Vintage' mode! I made this photo frame for the Fiskarettes blog using the ShapeBoss, which is becoming my new favourite crafting tool - so many possibilities. Check out the Fiskarettes blog for all the details and a step by step tutorial to make the frame.

While you're there, don't forget to enter the draw for an 'Everywhere Window Punch'.

Pretty Chipboard Flower Row ...

2011-09-24T17:44:00.000+01:00

Well I can't believe it's been almost a week since I last posted, this week has just flown, I've been so busy catching up after my two weeks of Jury Service. But I'm back now and so happy to be creating again.
As it's Saturday it's my turn to post on the Bubbly Scrumptious Blog. This week I've been playing with chipboard. All the details are HERE.

I think this new shade of Seam Binding from The Ribbon Girl has got to be my favourite colour yet, it's called Wavecrest - love it!

The Ribbon Girl Colour Challenge #11

2011-09-18T09:28:00.002+01:00

Time for another Ribbon Girl Challenge, this months colours are Greens and Browns chosen by the mega talented Ribbon Girl Jo.

As always there's some lovely prizes up for grabs including this Halloween mini kit

Check out the blog for all the entry details and lots of inspiration from the Ribbon Girls and be sure to join in the fun.

For my card I've used:

Brown Tea Dyed Check Cotton
Striped Cotton Tape Cream & Green
22mm Cream/Brown Check Gingham

Quick and Easy Vintage...

2011-09-17T15:01:00.000+01:00

I've got some news to share today. I'm now a member of the Bubbly Funk DT, which means my designs appear every week over on the Bubbly Scrumptious blog and I get to play with lots of lovely products from the Bubbly Funk shop, they've got the largest selection of Prima flowers that I've ever seen!
I've always been a fan of Melissa Frances so when I spied an Attic Treasures Paper Pack and Cardstock Stickers in my DT parcel I was happy and this card simply made itself. Hope you like it, pop over to the Bubbly Scrumptious blog for all the details.

Boys Will Be Boys...

2011-09-13T20:46:00.001+01:00

Here's my card for the Boy's Will Be Boy's challenge over at The Shabby Tea Room.
There's lots of shabby goodness from the Design Team and a beautiful photo for inspiration. A great starting point for the dreaded 'Man' cards. I actually enjoyed making this one.

Papers and Stickers: Basic Grey Oxford
Ribbons and Bakers Twine: The Ribbon Girl

Friends...

2011-09-08T08:04:00.001+01:00

Just a quick post from me today. I just wanted to share the card I made for the Pink Petticoat blog using the new Hydrangeas and Tiny(Blooming) Sentiments. The designs really speak for themselves and you don't have to add a lot of embellishment to create a classy and elegant card. The hardest part for me was choosing which colour combination to use. For this design I've gone for Blueberry and Double Cream. Check out the blog for some stunning creations from Liz, Katie, Leann and Terrie.

Hydrangeas in Blueberry and Double Cream

Tiny Blooming Sentiments
Faux Silk Green Ribbon from The Ribbon Girl
Martha Stewart 3 in 1 Hydrangea Punch
Dovecraft Pastel Chalks
Flat Back Pearls

Just Wanted To Say...

2011-09-02T11:57:00.000+01:00

I've gone all pink today. This card will be appearing over on the Fiskarettes blog today with a step by step guide. The paper design is another from the new 'Brocade' collection from Pink Petticoat, in Bubblegum and White. Can't get enough of this design I want to print off every colour!

I'm entering it for the 'Blast From The Past challenge over at Let's Craft and Create.

Thnaks for all your comments on my last card. It's now been carefully boxed, wrapped and posted, hope the new mum-to-be likes it!

Papers: Pink Petticoat 'Brocade'
Card stock: DCWV Jewel Stack (white core)
Fiskars ShapeBoss
Sentiment Stamp: Hero Arts
Ink: Clearsnap
Ribbon: Berisfords Double Satin

Congratulations...

2011-08-31T09:54:00.001+01:00

Just wanted to share this 'Congratulations' card. I've used the new 'Brocade' design from Pink Petticoat. in sand and cream which matches perfectly with the beautiful champagne pure silk ribbon from The Ribbon Girl.. It's so easy to achieve a perfect bow and adds a touch of luxury to any card. I think I need some more colours!

Off now to get my supplies ready - Shimelle's Learn Something New Every Day starts tomorrow! I feel I'll be learning a lot this September, I'm on Jury Service for 2 weeks!

Papers: Pink Petticoat Brocade and Doodle Dots
Image: Pink Petticoat Lola Rose Blooming coloured with Promarkers
Sentiment: Papermania Stamp
Tim Holz On The Edge Die
Pure Silk Ribbon (Champagene) and
Brown Tea Dyed Check Cotton from The Ribbon Girl
Vintage Lace

Another Sweet Treat...

2011-08-25T15:52:00.001+01:00

Just wanted to share another sweet treat card I made for the Fiskarettes blog using the Everywhere Window Punch. There's a step-by-step tutorial to make one over there too if you're interested. If not, it's still worth a visit to check out all the lovely creations from Caroline and the rest of the DT, all using Fiskars craft tools.

DPs: Pink Petticoat Cherries
Sentiment: Pink Petticoat Sweet Sentiments
Punches: Fiskars
Bakers Twine: The Ribbon Girl
Ribbons: My Ribbon Scraps Bag

Another tissue paper flower...

2011-08-24T15:01:00.001+01:00

I did say I couldn't stop making them! This card was made with all those litlle punchies and scraps that are lying around on your desk and was inspired by the lovely cards on Kirsty's blog.

I'm entering it for 'The Sweet Days of Summer' challenge over at The Shabby Tearoom.

Dps - My Minds Eye

Bakers Twine - The Ribbon Girl

Butterfly Punch - Martha Stewart

Kraft envelope - Poundshop

Tissue Paper - Paperchase

Button - Stampin Up

Vintage music sheet

Tiny Tag Punch - Stampin Up

Stamps - Paula Pascual

A Sweet Hello...

2011-08-23T16:08:00.000+01:00

A simple card with a treat inside, those irresistabke jelly cherries. A sweet surprise for a friend. The cherry paper design is from a new download from Pink Petticoat.
Off now to get this little treat in the post before I scoff the sweets. I'll be back tomorrow with another card.

Can't Stop Making...

2011-08-16T08:54:00.002+01:00

Can't stop making tissue paper flowers, thanks to PI mag. I've used this weeks sketch (128) over at Card Patterns for this card.. Now on with the 'To Do' list!

Cosmo Cricket papers
Divine Twine and button from The Ribbon Girl

Bloom & Grow...

2011-08-11T15:58:00.001+01:00

Just sharing the latest project I made for the Fiskarettes blog. This is my favourite kind of crafting taking an everyday item and making it pretty with just some simple supplies from your craft stash.

For more info and a step by step guide hop on over HERE to the Fiskarettes blog. While you're there don't forget to enter for the Friday Freebie!

Listing gardening jobs will never be a chore again!

Stampin Up Crumb Cake and Very Vanilla Cardstock
Fiskars Continuous Stamping Wheel
Fiskars ShapeBoss
Stampin Up Cotton Twill and Linen Thread
Martha Stewart Butterfly Punch
Jenni Bowlin Vintage Button
Stampendous Alphabet Stamps
Embroidery Floss
Flower, Journalling Spot and Dew Drop from stash

Hand Carved Stamps...

2011-08-10T19:42:00.000+01:00

A couple of weeks ago I was invited to spend an evening of crafting at The Make Lounge in Islington, North London, courtesy of Snapfish.

About 12 of us crafty types enjoyed a private workshop in how to make hand carved stamps. Taught by the lovely and very talented Zeena Shah.

I kept my design simple with some lollipop flowers and a leaf. We used Speedy Carve, which I've never seen before, it's so easy to to use, not like the lino we used to carve at school.

A fun evening in a great venue, learning a new skill and making new friends! What more could a crafty girl want, oh I forgot, a goody bag to take home too!
Check out some photos of the evening on Crafty Makes and Cos I Like Making Stuff

And the Winner is...

2011-08-08T08:50:00.000+01:00

Joy

Your prize is wrapped and ready to go. Just email me your address and we can get it in the post to you.

Thanks to everyone who participated. There will be more giveaways from

The Ribbon Girl throughout the month of August so be sure to keep checking the blog.

The Ribbon Girl Birthday Blog Hop...

2011-08-01T09:00:00.032+01:00

Some good news for me to share, after my Guest Designer spot for July I've been asked to join The Ribbon Girl Design Team permanently, how cool is that! Now onto the real reason why you're here

The Ribbon Girl Birthday Blog Hop

You've probably arrived here from Dawny's blog and know exactly what to do by now! Just leave a comment on this post and you'll be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize, a rainbow selection of ribbons, pins, buttons and charms.

The blog hop closes on 7th August at 9pm UK time, when I'll be picking a winner. Now hop on over to Kath's blog for another chance to win. If you think you may have missed a blog, here's a full list of blogs taking part in the hop!

Vicky (you're here)

Thank You Sew Much...

2011-07-28T10:36:00.000+01:00

I do love recycling. I've recycled the image from this card I received from Liz at Pink Petticoat, I love how it's printed onto handmade paper. I was having a bit of a clearout but couldn't bear to part with the card so thought I'd recycle the image panel.

I've mounted it onto a scrap of fabric and added some trim, twill, lace and vintage pearl buttons. The layout is from the clean and simple sketch 125 over at Card Patterns

Papers, image and sentiment Pink Petticoat
Trim: Websters Pages
Twill Tape: Stampin Up
Lace: The Ribbon Girl

Workdesk Wednesday...

2011-07-27T09:50:00.001+01:00

It's Wednesday, so time to join in with WOYWW over at Julia's Stamping Ground. On my workdesk this week; I've the makings of a 'Hope You Feel Better Soon' card and a crafty bargain. Don't you just love crafty bargains. I checked out the new Poundland store that's opened by my local supermarket and found these notebooks, 6 for £1. Next time you see them they'll be looking a lot prettier! Thanks for stopping by.

Can I Just Say...

2011-07-25T14:08:00.000+01:00

Made this card just for fun, no challenge or DT project. It's another card made using paper scraps, though not such a tall order to match colours as they're all from Pink Petticoat so use the same colour palette.

Silly me only just realised the relevance of the sentiment to this watering 'can' image. I'm sure you all got it straight away.
Who needs expensive dies, I cut the scallop edges with the Fiskars ShapeCutter and template.

Papers, image and sentiment: Pink Petticoat
Paper Flowers: Kand Co Amy Butler
Ribbon: Stampin Up white organza

Doodle Flowers and Book Pages...

2011-07-22T18:13:00.001+01:00

Here's my first Fiskarettes DT project and it's featured on the blog today, how exciting! Pop over for the supplies list and step-by-step instructions. It's well worth a visit, lots of inspring projects, some familiar faces and the Friday Freebie.
Enjoy your weekend!

Workdesk Wednesday...

2011-07-20T08:58:00.001+01:00

Time again to show off our Workdesks over at Julia's Stamping Ground. Here's my crafting space, not a lot going on today. A box of cards waiting for envelopes and inserts, a fabric flower to finish making into a brooch, a crafty to do list as long as your arm and the wooden chest still to alter.

I've had comments over the weeks at how tidy my desk is. My craft bench is in the conservatory, lovely for the natural light but not such a good idea in the height of Summer, everything has to be packed away otherwise the sun will fade it. I'm off now to book tickets for the Knitting and Stitching Show, that'll be one thing off the to do list. Happy Wednesday!

Sweet...

2011-07-18T15:32:00.000+01:00

The challenge over at Let's Craft and Create this fortnight is 'Eat Cake', and I've just managed to get my entry made in time - didn't fancy the chores I had planned for today so I made a card instead! I've used the gorgeous seam binding from The Ribbon Girl, I've misted it with water for a crinkled look.

Other Supplies:
Cardstock: Stampin Up Baja Breeze and Bazzill Sugar Daddy
Image, Sentiment and Papers - Pink Petticoat
Cluny Lace - The Ribbon Girl
Vintage Glass Button - stash

The Ribbon Girls...

2011-07-17T10:06:00.002+01:00

I consider myself very lucky to have been asked to join the Ribbon Girls as Guest Designer for July, they're a very talented team of crafters and I'm a huge fan of The Ribbon Girl products. The Colour Challenge this month is Shades of Aqua and I was sent a lovely stash of goodies to play with to create my card.

I just had to use this baby buggy charm, isn't it the cutest, and I'd always wanted to make a pair of Mary Jane baby shoes, I got the template from Splitcoast Stampers.

Please check out the Ribbon Girls blog and join in the fun. You have until July 31st to enter and all you need to do is create a new card/project using shades of aqua. There's two prizes up for grabs, check out the Ribbon Girls blog for all the details.

Open Weave Ribbon
Polka Dot Buttons
Bakers Twine
Charm - all from The Ribbon Girl
Papers, Digi Image and Sentiment all from Pink Petticoat

Welcome Little One...

2011-07-16T21:23:00.000+01:00

This week is my Guest Designer spot over at Card Patterns. It's a particularly lovely sketch this week .

I don't usually make this size/shape card so it was an opportunity to try something different and I had a ball. So thanks ladies for choosing me as your Guest Designer this week. Be sure to hop over to the Card Patterns blog to see the Design Team's fabulous work.

Papers, Baby Giraffe Digi Image and Sentiment from Pink Petticoat

A Card From Almost Nothing...

2011-07-15T14:33:00.001+01:00

My favourite kind of card. I've been disciplining myself lately to use up my paper and ribbon scraps. It's really quite satisfying although the restriction can mean it takes a little longer to come up with a design!
Both the pink bias binding and the papers on this card are from my scraps box. I did have to use one 'new' element.

The aqua satin ribbon from The Ribbon Girl that I've cut and frayed to make the leaves, it was the perfect colour match. A card from almost nothing, makes me happy! For the layout I've used sketch 123 over at Card Patterns.

KandCo Amy Butler Sola papers
Papermania Sentiment Stamp

Workdesk Wednesday...

2011-07-13T10:40:00.000+01:00

I'm beginning to sound like a broken record but I can't believe another week has gone by! It's Wednesday which means it's time to share your wordesk over at Julia's Stamping Ground.
Well it's a busy one for me today. Three cards to make before Friday and today is my only window of opportunity. I don't know about you but when I have a deadline the ideas seem to dry up. So then I just cover the desk with papers and ribbons and hope for the best!. If I get a move on and get the cards finished my next project is to alter this wooden chest.

I didn't manage to get 'round to everyone last week, hoping to make up for it this week.

Paper Weaving and Denim Die Cuts...

2011-07-11T15:25:00.000+01:00

I've been wanting to try some paper weaving ever since I saw this challenge over on the Create blog. The weaving was easy, it was harder to decide which patterns and colours would work together.

I decided on a grey/blue colour palette for a 'manly' look. Rummaged through my Pink Petticoat scrap box, cut various patterned papers into 1cm wide strips and played around until it looked right, another great scap buster!

For the tag I die cut some denim! I find these iron-on patches work really well in a die cutting machine because they have a heat seal backing that makes them easier to cut than regular denim.

Stampin Up Basic Gray Cardstock
Bo Bunny Paisley Ribbon
Imagine That Sentiment Stamp

Coming Up Roses...

2011-07-08T13:53:00.000+01:00

Love these little ribbon roses that I picked up at The Range. I made this card using sketch 122 over at Card Patterns. I love their sketches, they seem to suit my style. I was lucky enough to win the Sketch Challenge (121) last week, the prize is a Guest Designer spot in a couple of weeks time, looking forward to that, thank you ladies.

I do hope the weather improves for the weekend, was hoping to get out in the garden, if not, I'll have to craft instead!

Papers: Crate Paper Emmas Shoppe
Digi image: Pink Petticoat
Cotton Twill: Stampin Up
Ribbon Roses: The Range
Rub On: Melissa Frances
Sheer Ruffle Edge Ribbon: The Ribbon Girl

Workdesk Wednesday...

2011-07-06T08:58:00.000+01:00

Another week gone by and it's Wednesday, time to share our workdesks over at Julia's Stamping Ground.
DT positions are a bit like buses, nothing for ages and then 3 come along. That's how it's been for me anyway, nothing for 5 months and now 3 offers. The first one being a place on the Fiskarettes Summer Design Team.
I love Fiskars products so I'm really excited about the next three months, I get to play with some fun new products, create tutorials and share them on the Fiskarettes blog. I'm going to enjoy the Summer! So that's what's on my workdesk today my first Fiskars product I'm playing with the Continuous Stamp Wheel, really easy and fun to use, I'll be sharing the projects I make with it in the next few weeks.
Off now to to have a nosey.

A Card With A Secret...

2011-07-04T15:56:00.003+01:00

Now here's the card I made with the fabric flower - see last post for how-to-make. There's a little secret to this card, it's a gift card. Bet you can't geuess what the gift is. Well, you probably can, the fabric flower is now I brooch I just added a brooch back to it and punched a couple of holes in the card front to attach it.

Stampin Up Very Vanilla Cardstock
Kirsty Wiseman Spotty Paper
Computer Generated Sentiment
Fiskars Speech Bubble Template
Anitas Grosgrain Ribbon
Button from stash

Fabric Flower - How to...

2011-07-03T20:47:00.000+01:00

Here's a little 'how-to make' a fabric flower. I must just say it isn't my own design, I saw it on a blog somewhere, but I've lost the link so sorry I can't give credit.

1. Take 5 2 x 2" squares of fabric.

2. Fold each square in half diagonally and stitch a running stitch along the two straight sides.

3. Gather the stitiches quite tightly and secure with another couple of stitches to create each petal.

4. Arrange the 5 petals to form a flower attaching to a circle of felt with strong fabric glue.

Stitch a button to the centre and your done.

Hope you like it. If you give one a go, please come back and let me know so I can come and have a look. I'll be back tomorrow to show you a card I've made using this flower.

Fabric: Heather Bailey Pop Garden

Sweet Wishes...

2011-06-30T19:19:00.001+01:00

And here's the finished card that you saw the makings of in my last post, it's for sketch 121 over at Card Patterns. I've had this Basic Gray cardstock from Stampin Up for a while now and finally cracked it open today. I had to, my Kraft cardstock is running low, 12 sheets of 12 x 12 gone in a flash must be time for a change.

I've coloured the image with chalks and Promarkers. I have to admit shading isn't my strong point but I can see an improvement which keeps me happy!

Making Memories Packaging Tape

Fiskars ShapeCutter

Pink Doily

Pink Petticoat Cakestand Digi image

Flatback Pearls and Glitter

Seam binding

WOYWW - 108...

2011-06-29T15:38:00.001+01:00

Phew these weeks are flying past much too quickly for me! Well this is my desk today. A pile of cards waiting for inserts, envelopes and cello bags - I hate that part of the procees, don't you? My Pink Petticoat colour swatches. A scribbled sketch, some paper tape, handmade flower and a doily - the bare bones of the card I'm currently working on for this week's Card Patterns sketch - hope to post the finished card tomorrow. Off over to Stamping Ground to link up for WOYWW and will be 'round to have a nosey at your desks this evening.

Home Sweet Home...

2011-06-27T22:31:00.001+01:00

Don't know about you but I can't stand this heat! My craft area is in the conservatory (south-facing) and so when it's hot like this the crafting has to go on hold - it's unbearable in there.
Here's a little New Home card I created for a challenge over on the Docrafts website. Just thought I'd share it here too.
I've used a Craftwork Cards Scallop Square card blank and trimmed off the two sides for a different look.

Stampin Up Patterned Paper
Xcut Border Die
Craftwork Cards Colour-Me-Oval
Computer Generated Sentiment
Stampin Up Word Window Punch

A Tag from Scraps...

2011-06-26T16:51:00.003+01:00

Phew it's a scorcher today! I took a welcome break from the heat to make this tag. Tags - another great way to use up scraps. It's for the challenge over at Let's Craft and Create - Tag It!

I tried machine stitching in red rather than my usual white/cream - and I think I like it!

Paper and Kraft card scraps: Pink Petticoat

Embroidered Brad: LLB Retro Rose

Sizzlit Flower Die

Websters Pages Trim

Scrapbooking and Crafty Find...

2011-06-24T19:26:00.001+01:00

Page 1 of my 'Celebrate Life' album is done! To help me get over my hatred of having my photo taken I've posted the page here for you all to see... Together with the front and back covers. I've used patterned paper scraps for the stitched patchwork page border. Another great way to use up those scraps.

It was library day for me today, and I always have a rummage in the neighbouring charity shops and usually come back with something. Today's find was...

beaded belts! A bargain at £2 a piece. The chains are old and tarnished but the beads are lovely. Tonight I'll be removing the beads ready to make pendants, earrings and bracelets.

WOYWW - 107

2011-06-22T15:50:00.000+01:00

A first for me - joining in with WOYWW over at Stamping Ground. A chance to have a nosey around other crafters desks and craft spaces. The most welcome addition to my desk this Wednesday is a new Cuttlebug A plate. My Cuttlebug hasn't been embossing perfectly since I used a Sizzlits die in it. There was an area in the centre that didn't emboss no matter how many paper shims I used, even after replacing the B plates. Just before I splashed out on a new machine I thought I'd try replacing the A plate, it arrived today and lo and behold it's working perfectly again!
The other bits and pieces are for my 'Celebrate Life' album, really must get a move on with that. Off now to have a nosey.

Summer Stamp Storage

2011-06-21T15:39:00.001+01:00

Doesn't time fly. I was going to enter this project for 'The Four Seasons' challenge over at Let's Craft and Create and just realised I've missed the deadline, the next challenge is up now - Tag It! but I'm going to show you my stamp storgage box anyway.
I wasn't using my acrylic stamp sets very much because they were tidied away so well, in a file, in a cupboard, behind a chair - too much trouble to get them out each time I wanted to use them. So, I needed a storage solution that could happily sit on my craft bench.

I'm probably not the first one to discover that a soap powder tablet box is just the right size to hold 4 x 6 inch acrylic stamp sets. Not sure if all soap powder boxes are the same size but this one is from Asda. I haven't decorated the lid as I'm planning to cover some more and stack them. I'm washing everything in sight now trying to empty another box ready to cover. When I do I'll do a tutorial!

Pink Martini 12 x 12 Papers
Stampendous Alphabet Stamps
Stampin Up Hodge Podge Hardware

Sew Special ATC

2011-06-19T19:54:00.000+01:00

The current theme over at the City Crafter Challenge blog is to make an ATC (Artist Trading Card) . I've never made one before so it was real fun for me.

I've since learnt there are only a few rules for an ATC...

1. They should be 2.5" x 3.5" in size, the same size as a playing card
2. If you are going to trade your card, make sure you have your info on the back of the card.
3. You are not suppose to sell them, they are FOR TRADE ONLY!

Wasn't sure where to start at first but I thought to make it easy I'd use a favourite theme of mine - sewing! Everything just flowed from there. Now I've got the hang of it I'll be making a few more.

KandCo Margo Tag Pad
Creative Expressions Vintage Sewing Stamps
Distress Inks - Brushed Corduroy and Antique Linen
Button and pins from stash
Machine Stitching

Father Christmas

2011-06-16T10:06:00.000+01:00

I did get my head 'round making a Christmas card, probably helped my the miserable weather. It's for the 'Father Christmas' challenge over at DCM. This week there's a prize from Crafty Emmas Store for one lucky random winner! Still one day left to enter and there's lots of Father Christmas inspirtion from the DT over on the DCM blog.

Still using up my old paper stash, this one is Basic Grey Dasher.

Other Supplies:
Pink Petticoat Sentiment
Father Christmas stamp - freebie from Quick cards
Holly leaves from Lynda
Bakers Twine - The Ribbon Girl
Woodware Button
Machine Stitching

Another Bloom

2011-06-15T15:39:00.000+01:00

I just can't stop making blooms. I made this one with pink bias binding and the spark was the 'Pink Lemonade' Challenge over at the The Shabby Tea Room to use Pink, Green Neutrals and Flowers.

I used the same method as here but instead of using ruffled ribbon I ruffled the bias binding myself with a running stitch along one side. I created the frame with some scraps of Amy Butler Sola papers that I'm eeking out - love the muted colours.

Other Supplies:
Stampin Up Cardstock - Crumb Cake and Pink Pirouette
Sentiment from Pink Petticoat Pretty Potties Collection
Machine Stitching

More Dad Stuff...

2011-06-14T08:29:00.001+01:00

I saw a tutorial over on the Fiskars blog to make a plant decoration, which got me thinking. Why not make a plant gift tag for Father's Day. I've cut out the flower and leaf shapes using a Fiskars template and stuck the assembled flower on to a wooden kebab stick. I'm going to write my greeting on the leaf. Looks good in the Chilli Pepper plant don't you think?

And here's the matching card. I'm entering them for the Boy, Oh Boy, Oh Boy challenge over at Cupcake Craft Challenges.
Glad all the manly 'Dad' stuff is done, I can get back to making pretty cards again.

Cardstock: Bazzill London Fog and Stampin Up Crumb Cake
Papers: KandCo Denim and Cand P magazine
Cotton Twill (tea dyed): Stampin Up
Jumbo Brad: Stampin Up
Versamagic Chalk Ink- Wheat

Machine Stitching

Imagine That...

2011-06-13T16:47:00.000+01:00

I was lucky to be one of the 3 random winners over at DCM last week. The prize was an acrylic stamp set from Imagine That. My prize popped through the letterbox today together with this beautiful card from Lythan. I'm going to enjoy using this stamp set - you can never have enough sentiment stamps.

This week's challenge over at DCM is Father Christmas and the team have excelled themselves with their fabulous cards - be sure to check them out on the blog.
Not sure I can get my head around Christmas just yet, but I'm going to try!

Dress Up A Jar

2011-06-11T12:07:00.000+01:00

The City Crafter Challenge this week is 'Dress Up a Jar'. Just the excuse I needed to organise my vintage button collection. Now they're all in a dressed up jar!

Just need to organise the rest of my button collection now.

Papers and diecut letters: Papermania Rose Garden
Stamp: Vintage Sewing by Creative Expressions
Lace: The Ribbon Girl
Paper Flowers: Prima
Crochet flower and corrugated card from stash

Denim For Dad

2011-06-09T15:32:00.002+01:00

Same sketch as the last card but a completely different look. Revisiting my paper stash again K&Co Rough and Tumble Blue Denim, perfect for those dreaded 'Man' cards, I think it maybe discontinued now so best not use it all up! The patterned paper is from issue 92 of Cardmaking and Papercraft and is available to download from their website.

Other Supplies:
Stampin Up Crumb Cake Cardstock
Stampin Up Jumbo Brad
Versamagic Chalk Ink- Wheat
Making Memories Alphabet Rub-ons
Machine Stitching

Bloomin' Lovely Day

2011-06-07T22:53:00.000+01:00

Just want to thank you all for your lovely comments on my previous post, I'm feeling a lot better about 'The Denim Flower' now. Unlike my previous card this one came together really quickly. Funny how that just happens sometimes. I'm sure it was helped by the fab sketch I used - Sketch 118 over at Card Patterns.

I've been revisiting my stash of patterned papers, it's all part of my class 'Something From Almost Nothing'.

This mat pad was the very first patterned paper pad I bought, K&Co Amy Butler Belle, and it's still one of my favourites.

I've also used:
Stampin Up Cardstock and Ribbon - Bashful Blue
Dovecrafts dotty brad
Pink Petticoat Sentiment.
Machine Stitching

The Denim Flower

2011-06-05T19:43:00.000+01:00

I really struggled with this card and I'm still not sure about it. The starting point for the design was the denim flower, I was so chuffed that I'd made it myself, I was determined to use it on this card. I changed everything around trying to make it work, hence the mess on my desk.

Now looking at the photo I'm thinking it's the flower that is the problem, it's too heavy for the paper design. You live and learn! Anyway, I'm still going to enter it for the Dies To Die For challenge over at Let's Craft and Create. I've used the Tim Holtz On the Edge Brackets die.

Cardstock: Stampin Up Crumb Cake
Patterned Paper: Basic Grey June Bug
Ivory Organza Ribbon
Vintage button
Denim Fabric Scraps
Tiny Brads
Tim Holtz On the Edge Brackets Die

I'd like to thank my lovely blogging buddy Emma for this award she very kindly gave me a few weeks back.

I'm still struggling to think of 7 (interesting) things about myself so I can't pass it on yet.