The Bird Nest

Gifted

2011-09-22T14:10:00.001+01:00

Check this out!!! http://beksynormz.blogspot.com/2011/09/gifted.html

Just because...

2011-05-24T16:36:00.000+01:00

A couple more layouts, just for the heck of it! Using papers that my lovely Sis shared with me.

This one is using a SC Sunday sketch

A really simple layout, tiny bit of paper, and ink.

In celebration of the Royal wedding.

Another Royal wedding layout, I thought as they had forgotten to send my invite

I would make my own!!

I really enjoyed making this page, check out my Baby Sisters blog,

she has done a very similar layout, spooky!!

I've had these Flair badges forever, so glad to have the perfect opportunity to use them.

We had a great time watching the Wedding, I loved her dress

and all the pomp. We had a cooked breakfast, bubbly and Strawberries and Pancakes.

We sat and waved flags, and laughed at some of the ridiculous outfits!

Oh and I drooled over David Beckham!!!

The first of the May SC kit.

2011-05-24T15:50:00.000+01:00

Feeling slightly guilty because only one kit arrived this time instead of 3, so Tracee and Beki have had to wait. I am assured they will be here very soon!

Look away if you don't want to see the contents guys!!

Jess being mobbed by Pigoens in St Marks Square, Venice.

The buttons are from the April kit.

Mary Poppins she ain't!

Cute Tooth pick flags

Love the number stamp, and the texture of the Thickers.

The Cabouchon flower is a brad, very glittery.

More Studio Calico April and the Royal Wedding

2011-05-17T10:07:00.001+01:00

I can't believe how many layouts I get from one kit!

My Big day!!

A little hidden journaling

Max in a wheelbarrow, like you do!

My Silly Doggy!

Love that ribbon!

A right Royal gathering!

Stella came as a corgi.

Have to have a wedding breakfast!

Think I'll scrap these at Kim's on Friday.

C x

Studio Calico-April

2011-05-10T15:59:00.000+01:00

Layouts using the April Studio Calico kit.

Jakes pre-op hair do. June 2010

The girls monkeying around June 2010

A bit more detail.

Using more of our studio prints, love this one of Jess.

My water mad doggy, not sure why it's come out red, ho hum!

In it's Krafty gloriousness!!

C x

Dartmoor 2011

2011-04-26T19:21:00.001+01:00

Just to remind myself it wasn't all rain!

My favorite place

and favorite people

A little windy

A touch frosty!!

One satisfied customer!

Scrapaholix...

2011-03-26T16:35:00.000Z

Had such a nice time at Kim's yesterday for our monthly Scrapaholix crop, I love those guys, especially when I have a meltdown and they're all on my side!! After my little wobble (concerning the destruction of my son's GCSE art work!) I managed to cobble together 2 layouts. The first one I'm really pleased with is 'Lifted' from this gorgeous layout by Tracie Hudson. I've a long way to go, but am pleased with my effort.

This is a picture of my son's girlfriend, taken when we had our family photo shoot.

The kits are not always what I would buy myself, but I often think that

its more of a challenge to make something you're really

pleased with, and I am!

Lovely liquid pearls and one of my oh so expensive Stampin' up buttons, only

used on special layouts!!

My PTI felt butterfly matched exactly in colour and theme!

For this next layout I didn't have a lot of paper left, but found some doilies in my stash.

I used the doily as a mask to start with and then layered from there.

Not sure if I like the 40 bit yet, maybe I'll change that.

What do you think?

There were loads of these tags, again, not usually my thing, but they grew on me.

Well I hope you are all enjoying the sunshine, C x

Studio Calico love...

2011-03-24T14:39:00.001Z

Some layouts using SC March kit, LOVE it!!

This photo is a bit blurry, I love the Bee stamp kraft on kraft.

I love the layering techniques that are so 'in' at the mo,

I am having a go, but NEED more embellies "wink".

Listening to 'Progress' as I write this, just got very excited when I remembered

I am seeing the gorgeous Take That in July!!

The 'Fabrips' are very cool.

My 'Baby', love this picture so much! He's an aspiring graphic designer,

so thought this design suited.

A good way to use up those alpha's that get left over.

My other gorgeous 'Baby', Wanted to keep this simple, as he's so laid back.

It was from a sketch, sadly I forget which, but love it anyway!

Another adorable 'Baby', not mine this time tho!

A little layering, am working on my shopping list!

My beautiful nephews, monkeying around as usual!!

I love that Max isn't even looking as he shoots

Jake in the face!

I stamped the Bee with Vintage cream ink, by PTI, love the look!

I also sprayed some bubble wrap with Mr Hueys Calico cream and printed

the cardstock.

Just wanted to leave you with this...

NEVER swallow Bubble Gum!! LOL

Hope you enjoy, TTFN, C x

Tracie's giveaway...

2011-03-16T14:51:00.002Z

Tracie Hudson is having a fab giveaway, check it out!

Catch up...

2011-03-08T16:30:00.003Z

Well it's been a while, a lot has happened and as always not enough time to do the things I always intend to.
My Mum and me made a fab cake for my SiL who was 40 in Feb

Naked Chocolate Guinness cake (baby one)

Here's big brother!!

In all it's glory! So pleased with this and glad to say Mandi loved it too.x

Yummy recipe from Nigella.com

I started work last week and everything is going great so far, I'm just glad that it wasn't me

who snapped the key off in the office door yesterday!

would not have gone down well!!

I made this card for Baby Pearl's new grandparents, Tim and Keren. Congrats to them and Paul& Lydia.

Using the In colours from SU! with Early Espresso.

Ranger Liquid Pearls (appropriate I think!)

and PTI stamp.

I made this little set for my' fake' neice Molly, who was being baptised.

The card. Inspired by this post.

Close up.

and her gift. Tag inspired by this.

Just wanted to use my new Stella and Rose doily stamps!!

Lush!!

Photo heavy but I hope you like!

C xx

update........

2011-02-21T20:42:00.001Z

I got the job by the way! x

Normally I like butterflies.....

2011-02-15T10:27:00.001Z

Not today though! Have an interview this afternoon and my fluttery friends have me running for the loo!! LOL. I'm not sure that bacon and eggs were a good idea this morning, but I need my brain food!
Anyway, to distract myself I have used a bit more of my Studio Calico kit.

(Not sure what happened to this pic in editing, ignore the line to the right.)

This layout is pretty much a scrap lift from an SC designer called

Susan Weinroth,

her work is fabulous and I couldn't resist trying this one.

I used lots of the rhinestones from the kit even though its a masculine layout.

I did lots of faux stitching and a little journaling.

I love the clouds stamps from the kit, I even heat embossed one.

was relieved to have enough letters to make the title!

the heat embossed cloud, cute huh?

after I took these photo's I added glossy accents to the rainbow title.

This is my own creation, I know, I didn't lift or sketch for once!!

I used leftovers and some embellies from another kit.

Cuu hoo hooot! I love the Sassafras alpha stamp.

Well I hope you like, see you later, gulp! C x

Scrappy update...

2011-02-14T13:56:00.002Z

Was very excited on Friday to receive my first Studio Calico kit! Woop woop! I have pictures on my phone, but I can't find the cable. Anyway it's delicious! Loads of paper and card, some yummy pearl buttons, 2 cute cloud stamps, a packet of thickers, some scrummy ribbon....etc....
anyway, I have done one layout so far, many more to come. Am determined to use everything up before the next one arrives.
This layout is based on a sketch by Shimelle.
Here it is....

This picture is of me and my nephew Max, playing catch from his parents bedroom window. He looks so cute in his jammies. The journaling tells of how I still find it difficult to see him standing, when he has been confined to his wheel chair for over a year now.

These were Basic grey and AC papers from the SC kit. I love the pointing finger stamp, also by AC, it's a good masculine stamp to have. I also added a few goodies onto my order, including a new AC D-ring album, extra Kraft card stock and a slick writer pen, which is brilliant for writing on photo's, I aim to use this on my next layout.
Well I should be practising spreadsheets for my interview tomorrow, not enjoying myself, see you later. C xx

This is my second post today, keeeeeep scrollling!!

Sunday roast...

2011-02-14T13:38:00.001Z

A few weeks ago my parents went to the local Carvery company with my brother and sil and were so disappointed with the service, that they decided they could do it better!! So yesterday the whole family went to my brothers house armed with turkey, pork, gammon, potatoes, swede, sweet potatoes etc... and it was yummy!

This is the new conservatory set, bought into the main room, so we could be all together.

and the main table, well there were 17 of us!!

All having a good time.

We even had Champagne!!

I cleared my plate!

We followed the meal with home made McFlurrys, very nice.

Can't wait to do it again guys!!

Postman's knock...

2011-02-01T10:02:00.000Z

Am postie stalking today, as I'm sure many of my fellow stash hoarders are too. Have a lovely parcel on it's way from Papertrey ink and am growing very impatient, especially as I know it's been in the country since Thursday!! Still, am not looking forward to paying customs! Whilst I have been waiting I've been scrapping my little heart out, but the photo's are on the other computer, so I'll post them later. I've also been working on some Valentines cards that I will sell.

Using the lush Baja breeze card and ink from SU! and the heart stamp. The border pattern is Mod Squad, the butterfly is from the signature series, and the frame stamp is from the anniversary set, all by PTI.

Was sad making this card :( I used the last of my Ocean tide PTI ribbon, sniff! There will be people who think it sacrilegious to rip pages from old classics, but Tess of the Durbervilles has some great lines in it, this card says 'pooh' on it somewhere, see if you can spot it!

Cherry cobbler, yum!!

I took this idea from Dawn McVey's blog, and made it my own.

I've made this card for my nephew to give to his bestie, Lucy.

My Sil didn't think it appropriate for a 10 year to declare undying love,

but all the cards you can buy do just that.

I thought this sentiment was more appropriate and it just says 'Love ya' inside.

Have a good one. C x

CHA sneeks....

2011-01-26T15:24:00.000Z

Have fallen in love with some of the new Cosmo cricket CHA releases, the colours are gorgeous, can't wait to get my hands on them!

I love the teal blue and greens in this collection, perfect for layouts of my boys.

Loving these embellishments!

Swoon! Am a button fiend!

More teal, and other gorgeous muted colours, yum!

Soo cute, would make a lovely travel journal.

I <3 these!!

Have you seen anything you fancy in the new releases? I need some more ideas!

Thats all folks xx

Got the bug!

2011-01-24T17:50:00.001Z

I've decided whilst the mojo is back, I'll make the most of it! Have done 3 layouts over the weekend and today, it's unheard of! After another (unfruitful) trip to the dentist, I consoled myself with some sweet Pebbles papers that came in an album kit I bought before Christmas.(I'm not sure if the are still on, but TK Maxx had some amazing offers on AC album kits, got one for £3! Worth $50!) Here's today's...

I got the idea for this one from the Studio Calico design team gallery, the bright and zingy papers

are perfect for this summery picture of my sweet doggy.

This next one is of Dan's 17th birthday, depicting his special brand of silliness, I love that boy!

This was the result of the Sunday sketch from SC last week.

I couldn't work out how to make the photos small enough, so printed some wallet sized shots

from my phone.

Thats all folks xx

Circa 1934

2011-01-23T11:39:00.001Z

This post will please my scrappy friend Tracee no end! I am posting on my blog for the first time since november, sometimes life just doesn't inspire, and your 17 year old nicks your camera for his A levels!! Well Scrapaholix was great on friday and as I haven't scrapped since November, was surprised at how easy it flowed. So much so in fact my Sis, Tracee and myself are subscribing to Studio Calico, I'm so excited!! If you want to see what you can do with these fab kits, just visit Lazy Dynamics on my blog list, she's done 14 layouts so far, and they're beautiful.

Our kit contained papers from the gorgeous Cosmo Cticket Circa 1934 collection (I had already bought this range from the GoGo getaway in oct) and went really well with the pictures I had chosen (well borrowed from my Sis, I forgot to take any!)

Causing havoc in Cardiff!

I'm really pleased with this one, it just fell together really. Dan and the girls went to see Peter Kay in Cardiff and had a blast, this is his new fave T-shirt.

Wanna Brew?

I love how these papers can be masculine or feminine, just by the way you arrange them. This was taken at the GGgetaway, not very staged!!

And one I did at home on saturday. I love these photos of Chewie, he's grown so much now, it's nice to look back. He's still a total cutie pie!!

He loves my Dad.

Well, thats all folks! Cx

Miracle photgraphy

2010-11-16T17:28:00.000Z

Check out the new profile picture, by the amazing Kirsty Wiseman! She managed to make me look half decent x

GoGoGetaway!!

2010-11-02T12:09:00.000Z

I had the most fabulous weekend, thanks to the GoGo girls and all the delegates. A weekend at Theobalds Park hotel was just what the doctor ordered, comfortable room, Fantastic classes, bonkers women, what more could you want?! There were 21 classes to choose from, a total of 7 to attend over the weekend.
The first class was at 9.30 on friday evening, with Lorraine, called Pennant Pizzazz, and this is my effort.

This class was lovely, making Pennants rather than bunting which is quite trendy at the moment.

We did doodling, embossing and lots of layering, loved it!

The next class at 10 on saturday morning was with Sam Ball ( i have a lady crush!)

called 'Homewood Bound' using wood veneers to make cute little houses.

There was free hand doodling and loads of cutting out.

I love the egg hunt pictures and am very chuffed with my title!

Another Sam Ball (I am not worthy!) class at 2.15 called

Artisan moments.

An intricate class with gold leafing, which was so much fun. Am definately going to do it again.

At 4.15 on Saturday afternoon we had a class with the Fabalus (in a welsh accent!)

Helen Miles, this girl cracks me up! We used wood veneer again with shimmerz paint. This was a nice quick class, and we all went for a lie down after ( not together I might add).

At 9 pm saturday evening, another 'cracking' class by Helen Miles called Dainty doilies.

This involved masking with paint, lots of cutting and folding and the most raucous laughter ever

when the conversation got very blue!! Can't divulge too much, but tea bags were mentioned!!

Another of Helen's classes on Sunday morning at 10 called Accesorise.

I love the freshness of this layout, it's so bright and vibrant. We made our own embellishments

using tiny bottle caps and paper clips, so much fun.

Sunday afternoon and our last class, sob, sob, with Sam Ball, Yay!!

Called Modern Twist

This was a scream as she had us making Origami flowers, most of which almost got thrown on the floor in frustration!! Quite an art to master, but I've been practising and have almost got the knack!

An absolutely brilliant weekend, met some gorgeous women, had so many laughs and learned loads.

Thanks to the Fab GoGo girls I have found my mojo again, watch this space! C x

Christmas cards

2010-10-13T21:36:00.001+01:00

Whilst awaiting delivery of my new crimbo stamps from Amy, I have made the most of Kirsty's visit and used her's!

I love these poinsettia stamps from PTI and the retro sentiment is lush.

How cute are those stockings!?

This tone on tone technique is very cool, I love these snowflake dies.

A great set, you can interchange the baubles with loads of different patterns.

See?!

Some ideas have been adapted from PTI gallery.

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Craft fayre goodies

2010-10-12T19:03:00.001+01:00

Have been making some bits and bobs for a craft fayre coming up, am quite pleased with these gift card/cash holders.

Have had this felt and funky foam forever, so if I sell them for 50p each, it's almost pure profit! Here's hoping! C x
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All good things come to an end...

2010-10-02T09:12:00.001+01:00

Wow, where did the time go? It's the last Twisted card sketch for this term! The new teams will start next week with their fab creations. So today, both teams will leave you with the final sketch and their take on it. The 'Twist' is LOVE... hope you enjoy.

Pop over to the twisted blog and check out the sketch to see what you come up with. I used PTI & SU cardstock, ink, stamps, fiskars punch and PTI ribbon.

Thanks for watching, thats all folks..... C x

Twisted cards #25

2010-09-18T09:14:00.000+01:00

Hello blogland, it's time for Twisted card #25, this weeks 'twist' is Big. I've opted for a set of circles (using nestabilities) that I stamped with Papertrey ink background stamps, in Stampin' up's Taken with teal ink. I mounted these on SU! Taken with teal cardstock and added PTI black buttons and finished off with a 'Big' chipboard butterfly which I heat embossed with AC Zing powder.

This is my creation, I'm loving Teal and black at the moment and PTI stamps rock! Hope you are inspired to pop over to the twisted blog and check out the sketch.

I'm off now to spend the morning with these little monkeys, I'll need a stiff drink when I get home!
Have fun this fine saturday, C x

Granny stripes

2010-09-14T21:06:00.001+01:00

Am loving the granny stripes, it's taking a while, but it's so nice to sit and do a couple of rows at a time. I'm reckoning on another 10 to 15 rows and I'll be snuggling up for autumn. Happy Tuesday C x

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Lets Twist again....

2010-09-14T14:35:00.000+01:00

It's sketch #25 on saturday, this is the last but one card for my term. Don't forget to check back. C x

Twisted sketch #23

2010-09-04T12:01:00.000+01:00

Happy saturday! What a gorgeous sunny day, we walked the dog in our local woodland this morning and saw the same deer 3 times, the 3rd time it was running straight at us! Thankfully Stella didn't see it that time, or she would chased it for miles! I love early morning walks, they are good for clearing your head and getting your heart pumping. Am taxi-ing 3 teenagers to our local mall now, so will spoil my exercise with a chocolate brownie no doubt!!
Anywhoo, here's my take on the Twisted sketch for this week.

I used cardstock and punch from SU!, ink by PTI, A fab die cut from Tim Holtz

and the rub ons are by Bo bunny.

This weeks Twist is 'Clear', I punched my Bird from

a piece of clear acetate stamped with Polka dots, by PTI.

Have a great weekend, C x

Twisted cards# 23

2010-09-03T13:30:00.000+01:00

Hey you guys, don't forget to check out the Twisted card sketch tomorrow, #23 already! Only 2 more to go after this one! Am really pleased with this one, so don't forget to drop by, C x

A momentus day.

2010-09-02T10:57:00.001+01:00

Am sat at the computer with a strange feeling inside, Dan has just text me from post 16 saying everything is going well and he has a friend in his tutor. Why the strange feeling? It's an unusual situation we find ourselves in, Dan started at this particular school in year 7 and everything started well, a few months in and the bullying started, and became too much. We removed him at the end of year 8 and I home schooled him for a year. He then went on to another school for the last 2 years, and achieved good grades at GCSE. When looking at post 16 courses he announced that he wanted to go back to his old school!!! Well that's where the strange feeling comes in, I have such a mixture of emotions going on, not that I think it will start again, but it's just bought back how hard it all was. He has changed, become stronger and knows that the problem was not with him, but the bully's (there was more than one) lack of self esteem. I just want so much for this to be his fresh start, somewhere where he will blossom and a time when he'll forge new and lasting friendships. Take life by the horns my son, work hard, achieve and stick 2 fingers up to those who thought they could break you . Mum x

Twisted cards #21

2010-08-21T09:46:00.002+01:00

Hi guys, have been a bad blogger, you know what it's like during the summer hols, someone always wants a piece of you! We've been away for a few days on our own, and had a great time. Now it's back to weeding the garden, clearing the gutters, decorating and other boring stuff that needs doing while he's at home.
Never fear, we still have our craftyness to break the boredom!
If you are bored today, go on over to the twisted sketches blog and have a go at the great sketch going up today.
The 'twist' today is Staple. Now my twist was not to use the metal stationery supply, but a staple paper crafting supply, 'Buttons'!
Hey it's a twist!!
well here's mine, the picture quality's not great, I can't get on the Internet at home.

Happy Saturday x

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Twisted cards #21

2010-08-19T18:53:00.000+01:00

It's that time again! Twisted card sketch #21 is up on saturday, don't forget to check back then! C x

Twisted Sketches #19

2010-08-08T19:04:00.001+01:00

Here's Twisted card sketch #19. The twist is 'Stripes' any how, any way.

My Take:

The picture's not great, needs to be closer. I used some of my old favorite Scenic route 'liberty' Papers.
I know I did a tag card last time, but this sketch just seemed to lend itself to that format. I'm pleased with this one and may save it for my nephews 10th birthday in october. Hope your weekend is going well. C x

Cute doggy

2010-08-01T19:52:00.001+01:00

Just the way I like her!

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Twisted cards sketch #17

2010-07-24T09:30:00.001+01:00

This weeks sketch is #17 already!! The twist is glitter, any how, any way.

For this card I made a tag emellishment. I used The Mod squad stamp set as a background, a Stampin' up! sentiment and heat embossed a chipboard butterfly using American crafts Zing glitter powders. I Stamped a background flourish, by PTI and went over the pattern with a Sakura glitter pen. Quite pleased with this one. Make sure you check out the others! C x

October Afternoon love...

2010-07-21T18:34:00.000+01:00

Have you seen these gorgeous papers? I'm in love!! XX

Twisted sneek peek

2010-07-21T18:22:00.003+01:00

This saturday is the twisted cards sketch #17, and this is my sneek peek.

don't forget to check it out on saturday!! C x

Acorns midnight walk

2010-07-19T14:02:00.000+01:00

Hi guys, just wanted to say that I'm doing the Acorns midnight walk on sept 11th, to raise money for the Acorns hospice. My 2 nephews, who are 13 and 9 have Duchenne Muscular dystrophy, a life limiting disease of the muscles. They go to Acorns in Worcester around 6 times a year, to give my brother and Sil some respite, and to have loads of fun! This place is a lifeline to them, especially as my eldeset nephew has recently had major spinal surgery. They rely on donations to do the wonderful work carried out there and are always really grateful. Please follow this link to our just giving page if you would like to support the Midnight JaMmers, thank you in advance, Clare x

Sketch #15

2010-07-10T09:00:00.001+01:00

Hey it's Twisted Cards time again, I can't believe how quickly my turn comes around! This is the sketch

and the 'twist' is Frames.

This is my take,

I have used all Stampin' up products for this card, I have 'Framed' my sentiment

in the scalloped punch and used the roller stamp as a background.

The green, yellow and blue squares are raised on foam pads to add texture.

I like the simplicity in this card, even though there's a lot going on

with all the colour, it was simple in it's concept.

Pop over and check out the others and have a great saturday!! C x

Twisted cards sneek peek

2010-07-07T14:39:00.000+01:00

Twisted cards sketch #15 is up on saturday, here's a little peek at my offering. C x

Getting there!

2010-07-04T18:42:00.000+01:00

It's growing slowly and looking pretty, this is going to be a labour of love x

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Twisted cards #13

2010-06-26T09:00:00.000+01:00

This weeks twist is 'Flourish', I used the lovely Stampin' around flourish stamp

and a cute technique from a Stampin' up class for the sentiment plaque

Using my scallop punch.

Everything used is Stampin' up apart from the the stamp on the butterfly (PTI)

and the butterfly itself which was cut out on my craft robo.

Happy Saturday C x

Twisted sneek peek

2010-06-25T20:34:00.000+01:00

It's twisted cards time again, this week being sketch #13. Just a sneeky peek!

It's prom time

2010-06-24T17:44:00.000+01:00

This is where I have been this afternoon, getting this gorgeous girl ready for her prom!

This is Jasmine, all grown up! I did her hair and make up and if I say so myself, she looks fab! I've known this sweet heart since she was a twinkle in her daddy's eye, she even calls me Aunty. Have fun tonight girly, not too much kissing! C x

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Granny stripe

2010-06-14T21:11:00.000+01:00

Just a couple of pictures of my latest creative adventure, courtesy of the amazing Lucy at Attic 24. The hooker extraordinaire has posted a new pattern on her blog which I couldn't resist, and 17 balls of yarn later, here I am!

I'm still not sure if I like the colour combo, but I ain't unpickin it!

I am loving this sunshine yellow tho!

Sorry, bad pic! These are a few of the next colours to come, will try to keep up to date. The spirit is willing but the hands are weak, nasty arthritis!
Hope you're not sick of football yet! C x

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Twisted sketches #11

2010-06-12T09:54:00.003+01:00

I have to start by appologising for the quality of this next photo, our PC is playing up. Thank goodness for the i phone and blogpress!

It's time for sketch 11 and the twist is distressed. Now I'm not so keen on distressing, I like clean lines and a graphic look to my work, so this was a challenge! I remembered a stamp from SU! that I had bought a while back which is called sanded and gives great background texture, so that was my solution.

This is the result, I used real red ink and then used the stamp around roller in black across the middle. I mounted it on real red card, then onto black and added ribbon and a sentiment to finish it off. Pop over to the Twisted sketches blog and check out the others. Cheers x

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Frappucino time

2010-06-04T11:40:00.001+01:00

Just found a funky new Starbucks in Bristol which used to be a pub (the Black Sheep, in Aztec West) . We were on our way to Cheddar to pick strawberries,but the traffic was stupid! So decided to chill with a beverage and cake, yum!

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Chippy chip chip

2010-06-01T11:52:00.000+01:00

The challenge over at A Passion for Papertrey is to use chipboard. I made this card a few weeks ago using October Afternoon paper and a random chipboard butterfly. I heat embossed the fluttery lovely and stamped into the melted powder with a stamp from the Mod squad range. The sentiment is from Signature greetings. I used Stampin' Up! cardstock in choc chip.

Happy days c x

Folksy...

2010-05-31T20:38:00.002+01:00

I have taken the plunge and opened a Folksy shop!! Only have a couple of items so far, it takes awhile to load. Check it out and let me know what you think! C x

RAK

2010-05-31T19:34:00.002+01:00

Rachel has a fab giveaway on her blog, check it out!

May birthdays

2010-05-30T16:14:00.001+01:00

Wes 22

Mum 62

Dad 63

Jon 40

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Birthday time again...

2010-05-30T09:35:00.000+01:00

Happy sunday everyone, I'm happy to say the sun is shining on this my Son's 22nd birthday! Happy birthday Wes, love you bud X It's my Dad's B'day tomorrow, so it's celebration time with the family today. Dad always takes Wes to Castle combe race circuit for his birthday and has done since he was about 3, they love all the noise and smell of burning rubber, Wes got to go in a subaru on his 18th around the track, he was just gutted that he couldn't drive it! Have fun guys xx

Check this out at Ebay, am trying to sell my old bridesmaid dress if anyone is interested?

It's size 10, although I am slightly larger than that, so room for wedding cake!!

It's dark brown satin, from Coast and gorgeous to wear.

Did have trouble breathing on this photo as the sturdy under garments

were cutting of my blood supply!!

Pop over and have a look if you're fancying.

Happy Sunday, hope the sun keeps shining!! C x

Twisted sketch # 9

2010-05-29T10:33:00.001+01:00

Check out the Twisted cards round up today, it's sketch #9 already! Here's mine!

Hipstamatic stylee!

The twist is to use rub ons,these are by Bo bunny. I used PTI text style stamps, American crafts sentiments and I used SU! Cardstock. Happy Saturday C x

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
sorry the pics are a bit naff!

Come on England!

2010-05-24T19:37:00.000+01:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

40 and fabulous

2010-05-20T22:13:00.000+01:00

Happy 40th Jon, my better half. Love you babe x

Twisted cards #7

2010-05-16T10:00:00.002+01:00

It's that time again, week #7 at the twisted sketches blog. This is the sketch, and the twist is Black and White, any how, any way!

I used the fabulous Mod Squad stamp set to create this retro background

and added a sentiment to the circle stamp.

The bands are strips of card punched with the fiskars effervescent punch

and SU! scallop punch. I then added the pearls for subtle bling.

the ribbon is from Ribbon Oasis.

Pop over to the blog and maybe submit your own creation.

Happy Saturday, Cx

Thank crunchie it's friday!

2010-05-15T10:00:00.001+01:00

I've been making more cards this week.

This is with the Good neighbours set by SU!

I found the easiest way to use this set is to cut the house out

and piece them together.

The OA papers are so gorgeous!

All SU! punches.

OA papers, PTI stamps and SU! cardstock.

My hubby has bought me a light tent for taking pictures of my cards in,

so I will be experimenting soon! Cx

A sneek peek...

2010-05-13T10:19:00.002+01:00

Saturday is twisted sketches day again, here's a little peek at my contribution!

Quite pleased with this one.

Check it out on Saturday! C x

and check this out!!

Rippletastic!

2010-05-11T20:42:00.000+01:00

This is picture of my ripple blanket,I started it ages ago, got a bit bored with it and then picked it up again recently.
I'm making it with pure cotton, so it doesn't grow very quickly, but having just finish my 3rd repeat, I can see light at the end of the tunnel!
Pretty huh?

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

The end of an era...

2010-05-11T10:18:00.000+01:00

Well it's a big week this week in our house, my youngest son, my baby, is leaving compulsory education. Tomorrow is his last day before study leave and then his exams. I won't be sorry to see an end to the 6 o'clock starts, standing on cold bus stops on dark winter mornings, and a tired, miserable teenager at 4 pm!!
Instead he'll be able to roll out of bed and take a 15 minute walk to a new school for post 16, I just hope he's made the right choices academically.
He's off into town after school tonight with his mates to buy matching jumpers and ties, so they stand out from the crowd on their last day. Well done my boy, we're so proud of you! It's not been an easy time, but you have made it through. XXX

Happy tuesday, C x

Starbucks time

2010-05-09T19:11:00.001+01:00

Having fun with hipstamatic!

Me and my boy x

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Happy birthday to you...

2010-05-08T09:00:00.000+01:00

Happy birthday dear muumm, happy birthday to you! xx

My Mum is ^)*% today!

I made this card with guess what?! OA papers!

I'm not happy with the picture tho, I compressed it to speed things up,

so it's not that clear

Hope your day is Fabulous Mum! C xx

The more I see you, the more I love you...

2010-05-07T10:12:00.000+01:00

A few more creations using the gorgeous OA fly a kite papers.

I love the vibrancy of these colours.

I used an AC border stamp and a PTI sentiment.

The bird punch is getting much use!

I made the ruffle border out of leftovers from the previous card.

I used another AC border stamp, still with the fabulous

vintage cream ink by pti.

Not my usual colours, but I think this one is really pretty,

the AC detail embellishment works well.

It's been a while since I scrapped on cards, but have really enjoyed these.

There will be plenty more where these came from,

have loads of papers left!

Happy friday chaps, C x

Lazing on a sunny october afternoon...

2010-05-06T09:58:00.002+01:00

Tenuous, I know!

If you haven't managed to get your hands on OA Fly a kite yet, get out there and buy some!! OMGosh, they are gorgeous, and very inspiring.

I was really pleased with this one, it took a little patience!

The Sage Shadow cardstock (SU!) is a perfect match.

I used PTI, text style background stamps.

The colours are so pretty, they make me 'Smile'.

(btw, Sage shadow card and pti's ocean tides ribbon are perfect together)

I love the Polka dot basic background stamp used with Vintage cream ink,

both PTI. The sentiment plaque is from a cutter file by

Kristina Werner, for 2peas.

Happy thursday guys, C x

Sisters are doing it for themselves...

2010-05-04T15:58:00.000+01:00

I've made a few cards which were inspired by a layout that my lovely sister did at scrapaholix last week. Beks is into making flowery embellishments, and these are really cute.

This is made using SU! designer series paper, in Old Olive.

I used my border punches and Butterflies too.

I inked the edges, and made my sentiment using

My little shoebox alpha stickers.

I love these Crate paper colours! This is the Brooke collection.

I used PTI polka dot basics stamps for the background.

Here's a close up, I filled the flowers with clear beads.

And one for the girly girls!

Using raspberry fizz ribbon from PTI,

and matching buttons, oh and ink!

Cardstock is SU! and PTI.

Happy tuesday, (although it feels like monday!)

C x

Twisted cards #5

2010-05-02T15:04:00.000+01:00

It's that time again, the twisted cards sketch blog is on it's 5th week, and my turn has rolled around again.
The 'Twist' this week is ribbon, any how, any way. Please check out the blog and leave encouraging comments, as they say at tesco, every little helps!!

Taken on a lovely sunny day in my garden, it does not look like that today from my window!

Paper, ink, stamps, buttons and ribbon are PTI. Cardstock Bazzill basics,

and I'm not sure where the velvet trim came from.

Happy Sunday, C x

The camera never lies...

2010-04-30T10:00:00.001+01:00

Check out Poladroid, so cool!!

Happy days! C x

Where's your head at?

2010-04-29T10:00:00.000+01:00

Aunty Beks and Max have the same Wii face!

I wonder who won?!

Happy Thursday, C x

Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away...

2010-04-27T11:31:00.001+01:00

Are you liking the dramatic title? I've got this thing going on at the moment, where I turn everything into a song title and spontaniously start singing! I think it's 'cos #2 son has picked up his guitar again and has been strumming about. Well, yesterday was a mixed bag, I went to Kim's for crafty shinanigans with Mum and Beks, and had a great time, but on the other hand my Hub's was on the first day of a 2 day interview, so I was anxious too. He felt very positive when he got home and said it went well and then as the evening went on, he kept remembering things that he would have done differently, had he the chance. I Had to tell him to forget about it and relax. Off he toddled this morning for more torture, and I am hoping for the right outcome.
He needs to know that if he doesn't get it, it's because it's not the right job for him, not that he isn't good enough.

Back to yesterday at our Scrapaholix group, I did these layouts.

I didn't think I would like these papers, but I enjoyed using them.

This is a picture of my Sis's bestie and her chap at our Christmas

party. My hubby did a fun photo shoot, there were wigs and silly props.

Sarah and Laurence had a portrait session not long ago, so are seasoned pro's.

He's either looking at her with a deep love in his eyes, or he thinks she's completely barking!

Which would not be far off the mark. Love you sarah! LOL x

Another song title!!

Me my sis and our eldest bro, Martyn. We were all lined up for a lovely shot

and Beki fell off the chair!

Some would say it's 'cos she couldn't fit all her junk on,

Not me tho x

There's always one!

Is that not the best face?

Had to sneek my little birdie in somewhere.

If I knew you were coming, I'd have baked a cake.

(somebody stop me!)

Happy Birthday Ben! (for friday)

Happy Tuesday everyone C x

Egg hunt and then I promise no more holiday snaps!

2010-04-22T12:48:00.000+01:00

Peoples holiday photo's can get dull after a while, but I promise you these are very cute!

Eddie can spot an egg at 20 paces!

and he's as fast as lightning!

Quick Coco, before your brother gets there!

They found big eggs too.

Leah found one.

Where's the next one?

Girl power!

They had so much fun, Ed was hilarious, running from egg to egg,

I think he found most of them.

They had some large eggs at their Nana's caravan and

were so excited. It's fun having toddlers around again!

Happy Thursday, C x

RAK...

2010-04-21T17:03:00.000+01:00

Look what Tracie is giving away!!!

Head over for a chance to win.

(3rd entry today, whats going on?!)

Passion for papertrey challenge

2010-04-21T16:48:00.001+01:00

Thought I would join in with this one, looks like fun. C x

I used PTI Polka dot basics and Fancy Flourishes stamp sets

along with Raspberry fizz ink. Everything else is Stampin' up!.

Hope you like C x

This is my 2nd post, keep scrolling x

We do have kids....

2010-04-21T10:33:00.002+01:00

... but they don't always like having their photo's taken! So most of our snaps appear to have a four legged friend in them. She is very photogenic, and is always with us, unlike Wes and Dan. However I was surprised at the amount of photo's with our little Collie in and felt a bit guilty, I am not one of those mad doggy women who thinks that she is my child, she just makes us laugh and likes being the centre of attention!

She loves her walks.

Her favorite place in the world.

She has no fear, she jumped 7 feet from one of these rocks!

A girls best friend too.

The best kind of Collie... asleep!

This is Dan by the way!! LOL

Happy wednesday, C x

Happy birthday Jake

2010-04-20T13:12:00.000+01:00

This little monkey is 13 today! Happy birthday to the cheekiest boy I know....lots of Aunty slobber xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Jake

A teenage dirtbag

official.

The annual Dartmoor duck race...

2010-04-20T12:32:00.001+01:00

This was always meant to be an annual event, and it was for the first couple of years. We all bought a bath duck each and decorated them in some very random disguises, ranging from Duckter Who, to Duck a l'orange and Ugly Ducky.

This one is from 2006, the silver one in the middle

is a duck roast!

We've not carried on this tradition for a while, but now we have

little ones around again, we revived the ducky fun.

Eddie, Coco and Leah waiting patiently.

And the winner is.... Everyone!!

They did egg rolling later in the week, and were most upset

when they were told their eggs would break, I think it was Coco who didn't throw hers!

Will leave you with this lovely view, don't ask me which Tor it is, I 've only

been going there for 7 years!! Happy Tuesday C x

P.S. I think it's Pew, but don't quote me! x

Twisted #3

2010-04-18T08:50:00.001+01:00

It's that time again, the Twisted card sketch is up for team A and here it is:

The twist is 'Twill' any how, any way.

Here is my take, not my fave of all time, but still pretty!

Have used Stampin'up throughout, a PTI sentiment stamp,

and a piece of pink twill

from my collection.

I hope you like it, pop over and check out the others, and have a go yourselves X

Happy Sunday folks. C x

Dartmoor is doggy heaven...

2010-04-15T20:28:00.001+01:00

Molly

lovely, well behaved, placid, obeidient.

Belongs to my brother.

Stella

Mad, naughty, obsessive, horribly cute.

Belongs to us.

Molly tolerates Stella, which usually means avoiding her at all costs,

this is very amusing!

Finally, she's tired!

Told you she was naughty, she's even poking her tongue out!!

TTFN x

The camera never lies..

2010-04-13T10:20:00.001+01:00

I cannot take credit for the holiday snaps that will be making an appearence

here in the next few days (unless stated)

This is the man who is seldom in front of the lens,

my Other Half, JB x

Yum x

Holiday snaps....yawn....

2010-04-11T20:17:00.001+01:00

I thought I would be posting pictures of rust and trench foot, thankfully I am not! We had a great time away, we go to Dartmoor every year at this time, usually to the same place, but this year we had an admin cock up and ended up staying about 10 mins away from the rest of the gang. It was fine because my lovely Brother and Sil changed their booking too and stayed next to us. We were in a gorgeous new caravan at the foot of Pew Tor, so walking the moor was easy.

Phew, I made it up Pew!

( I look really stern, not really, I'm just out of breath!)

Thats my boy!

The leat between Pew and Barn hill, so pretty.

(Will post some pics of the duck race later on.)

One very happy Collie!

Wish we were still there. C x

Coming home..

2010-04-10T10:00:00.000+01:00

Have been on my hols this week in beautiful Dartmoor, hope you have enjoyed my posts. I would have posted pic's of us having a great time, getting wet, but hubbies iphone died before we left, so you had to put up with looking at my cards and crap instead!! This is the last scheduled one before we are home. My lovely friend Di lent me a couple of display racks for my cards, am hoping this will get them noticed a bit better, I have sold quite a lot, but when people get used to them being there, they tend to stop looking. So here goes nothing!

Happy Saturday, see you later C x

A few more creations.

2010-04-08T10:00:00.001+01:00

Been having more fun with the Stampin' up, Stampin' around goodies. Here are a few more cards I have made, some were inspired by the Stampin' up catalogue.

this was inspired by Amy, the busiest SU! demonstrator ever!

from the catty all but.

Lush colours.

The bird is a new 2 step punch SU! have just bought out in their mini catty,

mine is on it's way, whoop whoop!

Using the Sanded backgroung stamp too, I like ths one.

Happy Thursday C x

Just a couple 'o' pages.

2010-04-06T10:00:00.002+01:00

I couldn't resist the new Crate paper Brooke collection. The lovely blues, greens and yellows were too much for me to resist! I had some photo's already printed, so got scrappin'!

It hurt to use this mant buttons!!

I love these glitter thickers.

This is Dan's new favourite phrase whenever he see's a pretty girl,

or there's intimate scenes on telly, he's soo 16!!

More gorgeous thickers, I have more than I care to say! I stamped on the butterflies with a PTI stamp, text style, an idea from Dawn McVey no less.

I am a Sister, a Twisted Sister..

2010-04-04T10:00:00.003+01:00

Happy Sunday everyone, please check out my first contribution to the Twisted cards desing team. Would love to see what you make of the sketch. C x

Pink, cream and brown, yummm!

2010-03-31T10:00:00.003+01:00

Am trying to decide what to do for my husbands 40th in May, any ideas? Thinking of a night in a hotel somewhere pretty, so that he can go and take photo's, preferably with a craft shop locally! let me know.

A few more cards...

I went to Steve's Stampin' up party on weds last week, and Amy showed us an easel card.

I hadn't done one before, it was fun, so made my own version.

Side view. I used SU! Stampin' around stamps, so cool!

This is a regular version. Forgot I had the heart stamps, so cute.

More guide lines 2!

Another Stampin' around stamp, I love them!

Loving these colours!

Well I'm of to the Dentist now, Happy Wednesday!! C x

Make and take

2010-03-29T15:41:00.000+01:00

I am loving the guide lines 2 stamp set from Papertrey ink at the moment, so thought I would show a card I made, step by step.

I stamped this with Raspberry fizz and Vintage cream inks.

Then I added a Vintage cream border, using a fiskars border punch.

A gorgeous bright pink bow and matching pins.

and the all important sentiment, by PTI.

It was so simple to do, the most complicated bit was the stamping, but so enjoyable.

hope you like.

couldn't resist this!

How funky?! Happy Monday

( check out my previous post!)

whoop whoop!

2010-03-29T14:39:00.002+01:00

Pop over and see me on this brand new team!!
Our first sketch goes live on Sat 3rd, don't forget to take a look, and take part!! Would love to see your take on things. C x

Be inspired...

2010-03-24T11:37:00.000Z

I was inspired by these gorgeous tags, that my equally gorgeous sister made for her craft space. I had some bits of paper and scrap leftover from various projects, so had a go!

These are downloaded papers from PTI, lush!

We had pearls in our Scrapaholix kits this time, love them!

Nice and summer-y

October afternoon loving!

Classy!

Totally MOD

We went to Kim's on monday this week for our monthly S'holix crop, it was so fun!

We talked about embarrassing moments, mainly involving wetting ourselves, and removing underwear at inappropriate moments! ( you just had to be there!)

Anyway, we did also do some scrapping! Using Basic Grey ( not my fave collection) and core'dinations, this is my effort.

Christmas photo's

loving the pearls!

Oops! no title!

Me and my boy x

Be inspired by someone elses blog today, and tell them how much you admire their work.

Happy wednesday C x

Twisted sister

2010-03-20T20:00:00.001Z

I am so excited, today is the day the new Twisted Cards design team is announced, and I am on it!!!! it's a brand new challenge blog by the Twisted Sketches team for card makers. I am honoured to have been chosen, and hope you lovely guys will support me. My first card 'goes live' on sat 3rd April, be sure to check it out and send in your interpretations!

This is the card that won me a place on this great team of ladies, from all over the world.

I used PTI cardstock as well as Stampin up!, A Stampin up! hostess stamp set, and Heidi Swapp ghost letters. The ribbon and buttons are from PTI and the letter stickers

are by My little shoebox.

I hope you like it and are tempted to get challenged in the coming weeks.

Thanks for stopping by

C x

Not long now...

2010-03-18T14:39:00.000Z

The exciting news will be shared with you all on Saturday (sorry Sal!), check back then! In the mean time have been having fun with Mum and Beks, and the fabulous Kirsty, now nick named Pumpkin pie! We got together for more crafty shinanigans on monday and K bought over her new PTI stamps for us to use. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Turning a new leaf and Guide lines stamps and have made 29 cards since monday! I need to get out more. Anyway, ready for a picture heavy post?...

This background was created using the Guide lines set, I love its versatility.

The idea from these cards came straight from Nichole Heady on PTI, I love their simplicity.

A close up

Another one.

Sentiments are Signature greetings

Dark ink with matching card base.

This is Turning a new leaf, so pretty. I have stamped dozens

on various colours of card, just need to cut them all out now!

Yes guys, this was my dining table!!

It's all Kirsty's fault!!

Yes that is a doggy in the window! I am open to offers, LOL!!

Happy thursday C x

( see you Saturday! He He)

Appologies for the misty marks on some of the photos, I'm not sure how that happened?!!

sshhhh, it's a secret!

2010-03-14T20:02:00.000Z

Exciting news.... but I can't share yet!!! mmwwaaahhhaaahhhhaaa

Scrapping? me?

2010-03-11T16:30:00.000Z

I know! I shocked myself too! I've actually done 2 layouts. I'm not sure why my scrapping love went away because it was all I ever did, seasons change I suppose and I have loved making cards in the meantime. There is a problem when you decide to scrap after months away, you have no stash! I had a few scraps left over from scrapaholix kits, but I don't usually like the ones we get given, so the dilema...

I eventually found some Nutmeg papers and they fitted the brief,

add a few 'can't live without' thickers...

Some much needed fun at Bristol Zoo.

I was tempted by the Twisted Sketch today, the 'Twist' being Staples.

So dotted a few around the place.

Called this 'Winter Olympics' because Stella was

doing backflips trying to catch the powdery snow.

As if by magic.

2010-03-11T16:12:00.000Z

Here's an update on the ripple blanket!

Am so pleased with the colours.

Should be ready before I'm 40, which incidently

is not long now!! Aaaaaggghhh!

C x

Masculine cards

2010-03-10T12:19:00.000Z

I'm never quite sure if making cards for men is appropriate, or if it's even appreciated!? My son always says he's not the card giving kind, maybe it is a girl thing. Anywhoo... I had a go using some American crafts stamps I've had for ages, and some flair buttons which gave me the colour inspiration.

I used 3 different background stamps to create the texture...

a scrap of patterened paper...

and the American crafts Flair badge.

I love this stamp and can't believe I haven't used it before, it works so well with SU! Basic Grey ink.

I of course ended on a girly note!

Still working my way through that stack of SU! papers.

Thats all folks!! Have a good one! C x

Rippley goodness

2010-03-10T12:03:00.000Z

I am still persevering with my crocheted blanket, it's looking really lovely and hope to have it ready by the winter!!

Its actually more than double this size now, with a lovely turquoise ripple running through it.

Will post that pic soon.

This is a cute scarf I crocheted using Debbie Bliss wool, it's so pretty.

This pattern is taken from The Stitch 'n' bitch book,

The Happy Hooker.

Happy Wednesday! C x

PTI spring challenge

2010-03-02T09:29:00.000Z

Hi folks, I'm sat in my craft room, looking out on a frosty, but sunny back garden! How happy I am to see the sun. Will have to leave these 4 walls later and get some lungs full of fresh air. I have been making more cards, to stock up on the ones I've sold for our new church building, and whilst blog hopping I found a lovely challenge on Nichole's page for a spring card, and as it at least looks like spring outside, I decided to play along (should be walking the dog!).

This is the colour palette I chose.

And this is my contribution

I used PTI cream card, Bazzill kraft and SU! pink and choc,

the ribbon is SU! too. The upper crest punch is by Fiskars.

I am loving the Mod Squad set at the moment (as you can tell!)

it's so versatile. I've used it a lot for retro looking cards, but I

think it looks great in softer colours too.

My son has an interview this afternoon for post 16, really hoping he gets in! let you know how he goes C x

A stitch in time...

2010-02-25T09:53:00.000Z

This is a bag I crocheted with yarn that my MiL bought in New York in 1993! She went off to see some friends who were living out there, while she was away, I found out I was expecting my youngest ,(who is at this moment sitting his GCSE Art exam!). She was at the time, into wool tapestry and bought huge balls of the stuff, which she came across a few weeks ago in her cellar and gave to me. To itchy to wear, and not really my colour, I set about making a bag to keep my wool in. I am pleased with the result, even tho it's huge and my fingers have calouses! the blue wiggle on top is my first ever attempt at the ripple stitch, this is the start of a blanket, we'll see how that goes!! All this inspired by Lucy at Attic 24, a brilliantly colourful blog, so inspiring you have to check it out! No laughing now...!

It does ripple...honest. C x

Totally MOD

2010-02-24T15:07:00.000Z

I just noticed on 'A passion for Papertrey' that the challenge this time is Black and white. Not usually my palette of choice, but it's good to stretch yourself. So here is my contribution...

I used the brilliant Mod Squad set.

I clear embossed the flowers for a bit of POP.

I used PTI cardstock (black) and papermill (white)

& Paperchase ribbon.

This is my second post today, please scroll down for LOTS more C x

A picture heavy post...

2010-02-24T12:06:00.000Z

Been having fun in the crafting department, I was lucky enough to be in reciept of a PTI order and a stampin' up order within days of each other. The trouble with recieving all of this crafting lovliness is that I didn't know where to start! I have used some bits and pieces, but have decided that I have to pick a stamp set and produce something, even if I'm not so inspired by it. I ordered some SU! papers that I liked, but when they came was a bit overwhelmed by them. So I opened them yesterday and was pleasantly surprised .

This is all SU! with PTI sentiment, I love the clashy colours.

Using PTI buttons and sentiment, I love how you can layer the colours and patterns.

I stamped the PTI sentiment straight on to the white space.

These colours are really out of my comfort zone, it was quite liberating!

This was made using the hostess stamp set I got for free, Garden dream. I used the flower on the pink as a background pattern, then two-step stamped the flower as an embelli.

This is the same stamp set, used in a completely different way. I used the masking technique on the background so that the flowers didn't overlap. The frame is an American craft clear stamp. Loving the hummingbird x

This one is PTI stamps and SU! colours. Love this one and gave it to Gemma for her 16th on monday,

I wrote the sentiment inside on a pink post it, so that she can give it to someone else after!

I love Mod Squad!!

(Inspired by Dawn McVey)

More Mod Squad

...Almost there!!! More gorgeous PTI stamps and a cute SU! button (sooo expensive!)

Got matching ribbons too!

This one is inspired by Dawn McVey x

Have been taking some of my cards to church, to sell and raise money for our new

Arts centre and community building which got planning permission this week. Very exciting!

Hope you're all still awake!! Happy Wednesday C x

The end of an era

2010-02-11T13:05:00.000Z

I thought I would make you all jealous and tell you where I've just been...

Sadly one of my last visits to the luscious Cadburys factory in Keynsham, we always get such good bargains there, it will be missed. This is only half of what I have bought, those chocolate creams were £1 per box of 48!!!!!!!! I know, madness! I will hide some, and have bagged some up for my youngest, who's off to Center Parcs next week with a friend, and then sit back and watch my hips expand!

I hope your mouths aren't watering too much, if you drop by, I will share, Honest! C x

What on earth?

2010-02-10T12:38:00.000Z

I decided for the first time this year to hang the washing out, have just come down stairs and it's snowing!! Does it only snow on wednesdays? Well can't go out right now as I have dye on my hair, it'll just have to stay, typical!
Been AWOL for a while, been thinking, Is it because I've been too busy? No, Is it because I haven't have any crafty time? No, Is it because I'm plain lazy? Yes! Thats my conclusion. I think thats the trouble with being at home all the time, sometimes I like the freedom to do what I want, when I want, but other times it saps the life out of you, and having all the time in the world doesn't mean you get much done. At the beginning of this post I said I'd put the washing out, well it was my Mum that did it, see told you I was lazy! So all being said I have applied for a job and have an interview on friday, maybe a trip back into the real world will bring back some motivation and give me a new lease of life, just hope I still have time for paper loving! ...

...Thats better, have covered up the grey hair now, maybe if I look better I'll feel better. I have been a busy bee, Me, Mum and Beks have caught the knitting bug thats been going round, and now have an array of hats, scarves, mittens and cowls in every colour, although we now have to consult one another so we're not wearing the same thing at the same time!! I have also been crafting, Kirsty and I recently recieved our 2nd PTI package from America containig some gorgeous goodies.

The Fab, Signature greetings, Background Diamonds and Mod Squad.

Raspberry Fizz and Ocean Tides buttons, ribbon and ink, and True Black buttons.

My first creations, with Mod Squad

And Background diamonds, using Signature greetings

(this is a lift from Dawn McVey)

All other colours are by Stampin' up, which by the way are lush! I had a SU party a couple of weeks ago and had £60 of free stuff and 3 free stamp sets, amazing

I ordered 11 packs of cardstock, (the black and cream are PTI) 4 matching inks to go with my other collection, 7 matching ribbons and some lovely papers. If your thinking of having a party, go for it it's good fun and you get lovely stash too!

Anyway, over on Aimes and Kates blog they are having a challenge of the Valentine variety, I made this card a couple of weeks ago, along with some others that I sold, and thought I would enter it.

I used PTI stamps Damask designs and Polka dot basics and cream cardstock

A close up..

A closer up!

Have a good wednesday Clare X

Background stamping

2010-01-18T14:41:00.000Z

After watching this tutorial by Dawn McVey, I was inspired to give it a go. My lovely friend Kirsty was coming over for crafty shinanigans (as she calls it!) last weds, with my sister Beks and Mum on the knitting needles. I wasn't particularly inspired to make a card until I started stamping that is....

and this is how they ended up..

The poof ball flower also a D M tutorial

I used my fave, Damask designs stamps, Text style,

and the oh so versatile Polka dot basics set.

Kirsty let me have a couple of bits of Ocean Tides cardstock, gorgeous with Chocolate brown, don't you think? Cx