It really wouldn't be Christmas without a red poinsettia.

Morning all.
Back again today with another Christmas card and this time a little bit of dramatic red and black.
On Sunday this was the last cards in my class and not all got it finished with goodie bags to collect and the raffle.  Hopefully with the picture today and instructions for the bow you will manage the finishing touches at home.

For this card I have used Spellbinder dies Gold labels four and Layered Poinsettia (one of my all time favourite dies) embossing folder by Sue Wilson Interlocking circles.  The leaves are a Martha Stewart punch, the sentiment stamp is from Woodware Wishing you, with bling and ribbon from my stash.  Not that you can really see the ribbon on this photograph but this is how it is made.....

You need 3 lengths of ribbon, a long, medium and short.

Place double sided tape on the centre of your largest strip of ribbon on the back and bring in the two ends to create loops or bunny ears.

Place double sided tap on the back where your join is and add the middle strip to the longer strip.  Finish off the ends as preferred.

To tidy the whole bow off, add more double sided tape to the back of the medium strip and wrap the small piece around the centre and attach at the back, simples!
Then attach your ribbon to the card.

I love these style of ribbons as you don't get the huge knot in the middle, good for posting.

This morning I have had another brisk and breezy walk out with the pup, finished a couple of card orders and now I have to decide what to tackle next.  After a day yesterday of appointments and music lessons I didn't really achieve everything I set out to do so a catch up day today.  I also manages to chop a wee end of my thumb whilst making tea last night!  Ouch!
You know when the kids shout "Mum" and you look up to see what is going on whilst still chopping away at the vegetables.  It is fine, although the pup keeps trying to take the plaster off and I've ended up using my scalpel to remove my tape and 3d foam backs this morning whilst crafting.....who would have thought a thumb was so useful?!
Enjoy your Tuesday, I'll be back tomorrow with the last of my Christmas cards from Sunday.
Happy crafting.  x

The big reveal....lets start with Christmas, ho, ho, ho!

As the first snow has been sighted on the hills this weekend lets start with our snow card....it seems somewhat appropriate don't you think?

After a brisk and breezy walk on the beach this morn I can certainly feel a chill in the air....#get out your woollies!
To the card.....

For this card I have used Sue Wilson's A4 embossing folder Interlocking circles, the new Spellbinder 2013 Snowflake pendant (these snowflakes just get better year on year) together with stamp set Huge snow from Woodware, paper from Dovecraft Back to basics Christmas.  The glitter is Distress dry glitter clear rock candy and bling from my stash.
We cut out the snow twice and layered the colours and the Spellbinder snowflake on the O. 

As for the Craft retreat in Aberdeen, I think it went down well.  I certainly enjoyed my day yesterday and met some lovely ladies plus familiar faces....you know who you are!!  Lots of hard work and giggles but don't just take my word for it why not pop over to the blog and see some of the finished projects here.  You'll also get a better look at my projects before I reveal them later this week with further details.
The girls have also set a date for the next one in spring 2014, a 3 day event.  Whoop!
#I best go and check my diary.

So what do I have planned today?
I have a couple of bespoke cards to create plus a huge heap of ironing, can't wait!
The food cupboards are running low too.
Doesn't it just sound like an exciting day?
On the upside the weather doesn't seem to be as bad as the predicted forecast for today.....will I need to eat my words later?  Only time will tell.

I'm signing off for today, away to get a cuppa to help me decide what to start first.  Enjoy your Monday whatever you have planned.
Happy crafting.  x

It's the weekend! The craft retreat is finally here......

Hi all, some of you will have already made it through to Aberdeen last night, others this morning...are you excited yet?

Whilst I'm beavering away at work I thought I'd show you my final class "inky techniques!"
This is one project but it has three parts to it.  AND ITS PINK!
OMG....for those who know me, get up off the floor and stop laughing! 
Those that don't.....I don't normally do pink.  I'm not a girlie girl at all.  In fact I think the only pink things I have are crafting tools and that's because the choice was pink or pink!  ;)
Anyway enough of the chat....reveal three.....

I'm away to have a sit down in a dark room now!
I've come over all funny.

Have a good weekend and I will finally start and share my cards with you next week.
Catch you soon, happy crafting!  x

Sneaky spellbinder peak two.

Hi folks back again today with another sneaky peak and this time it's all Christmassy, ho, ho, ho!
Without any further ado....

We wish you a Merry Christmas!
To soon, to soon I hear you cry well you better get used to it as the shops are now getting in all things Christmassy, mince pies in last week, nomn, nomn, can't beat a good mince pie.  This will be followed by mountains of sweeties, biscuits and all round yummy goodies, none of which are good for the waist line.
I shall give you the final sneak peak tomorrow of my inky class and then it will be off to Aberdeen I go to join in all the fun.  First however I have to make it through a dine in tomorrow at work, up at the crack of dawn!
If today, Friday the 13th is anything to go by tomorrow is going to be fun!! 
I hope you have a super weekend.  x

Sneaky peaks with something for the weekend, spellbinder style!

Hi folks and I've been asked by the lovely staff at the Papeterie to show you a couple of sneaky peaks for my classes this weekend in Aberdeen.  This is the class I featured earlier in the week when I mentioned....can you guess what it is yet?
For those of you who are going to the retreat and have picked the everyday Spellbinder class here is a little sneak peak to get those creative juices flowing!

 

 

 

I do like this colour combo, white, black and purple. 

Do you like?

I will reveal all next week or Sunday if you are joining me.

Happy crafting all.  x

Time to get scrubbing....the homemade way!

Back again with a late post today.  A busy morning in work then my pal Irene popped over this afternoon for a cuppa and a natter, in no time at all it was school home time and that's where the fun starts....homework, drum lesson, band practise etc...
Today I'm afraid I have a very boring picture for you but remember I mentioned I was making the mother of all dish cloths?
Well I think I will have to name this a floor cloth as it is a 12" square....but will I get the housework finished quicker....that is the question!

It is square honest, I've just taken it at a jaunty angle!
Still got to loosen my starting chain stitch, I seem to always start tight and loosen up! 
That sounds so wrong reading it back.  LOL.
Thanks for the feedback with reference to classes and watch this space. 
I'm away now to do something really exciting, the ironing, yawn!
Enjoy the rest of your evening.  x

It's Christmas again! Of years gone by.....

Back again, just like a bad smell!
So what have I been up to today?!
This morning was spent in work sorting out the food, the calm before the storm.  It's dine in coming up this weekend and it's going to be another good one....so watch out for the advert.  Nomn.

This afternoon I have been making a bespoke card.  Another one with a very specific brief and I can't wait to show you it.  I need to hand over the order first before sharing with you all.

I'd also like to thank you for the interest shown in my classes this coming weekend....I think I might just give you some sneaky peaks later in the week.

Crafters I know locally have asked if I have considered organising classes myself.  I have had a really good response so far.  Would you be interested? 
If so would you prefer an evening or a Sunday, sorry but Saturdays are out?
What would you like to make?
Any feedback would be taken into consideration and gratefully received.
Lets just say I have my thinking cap on and watch this space.  x

As I've had a busy day so far and really must go and sort something for tea I thought I'd show you this oldie but goodie.  I love this stamp from Lilli of the Valley, it just looks like my pals dog hence the Christmas card.

Isn't he cute?

Papers:  Dream Street papers Wonderland Magic moments & Let it snow.

Dies:  Martha Stewart Vintage lace patp, Spellbinder Nestabilities small deckled rectangle & Papertrey ink ticket.

Snowflake purchased on line, glitter & satin ribbon from stash.  Image coloured with copics.

A deconstructed sneaky peak.....mmmmm can you guess what it is yet?

Hello and how are you this fine sunny Monday morning?
I have a wee sickly boy this morning although I do think he is just tired after a busy weekend.
Another busy day Saturday and cropping yesterday afternoon in the village.  Lots of giggles and crafty chat, tea (thanks to Sharon and Irene for topping me up!) and lots of yummy cakes and biccies.
I was then out for a curry last night with my husbands work group which was also a good evening.  I was full as a gun when I got home and will need to be good for the next fortnight to recoup!  LOL.  Back to being good for a while anyway. 
I did have to smile at my hubby as he ordered what he thought was a warm curry.  He was just like one of those cartoon characters when he started to eat it.  You know the ones where you can see the face go red from the bottom up.....did make me giggle, bless.  There was half chunks of chilli in it!  Too spicy, hot, hot!

No exciting projects to show you today as I ramp up for this weekends craft retreat in Aberdeen.  Lots of cutting and packing plus I'm also in M and S the rest of the week, just mornings.  Busy, busy!
Looking forwards to next week when I'm hoping to catch up on other things and good friends too.
I've moved from my desk this morning to sort out this lovely lot......

"Can you tell what it is yet?!"  Mmm!
All will be revealed next week.
Loving this colour combo anyway.  A few bits are missing too just to add to the mystery!
It's a short post from me this morning as I crack on with a wee man at my heels.
Enjoy your Monday.  x

I did mention it would be a late post.....another oldie for you tonight, staying with the vehicle theme.

Hi, I did mention it would be a late post today, didn't I?
A busy morning in work then home to walk the dog. 

The afternoon I spent cutting out Spellbinder dies for my classes next Sunday and then I decided to try a new recipe for tea.
That is two nights in a row I've had my Slimming world cook book out, last night I did lemony chicken, which I really enjoyed....my kids not so much!  (I do wonder why I spend time cooking food from scratch when they'd prefer a pizza from M & S!)
Tonight I did a fish pie and that went down just as well.  I enjoyed it and had second helpings!  My eldest enjoyed it but the youngest just refused.  He always has been fussy with food and I have tried every trick in the book to no avail. 
The pie was follow by a weekend treat, a naughty pudding, as I picked the blackberries out of the garden yesterday.   It could only mean one thing in my book...an apple and blackberry crumble, nomn, nomn!

Tonight I need to get organised for another busy day in work tomorrow but first I thought I'd share another bespoke vehicle card.

This was made up for a lovely lady who I have made various cards for over the years.  A mini cooper in brown was the brief.
It was a challenge but I was happy with the results.

Anyway I am going to sign off and go and get organised.
Have a super weekend, whatever you are up to.
I have a crop on Sunday so I am hoping to get some more cutting out done and maybe have some play time with my crocheting.

VW camper crafty style!

Afternoon all, mmmm where did my post go yesterday?
Not quite sure.  It wasn't until I sat down last night that I remembered I hadn't blogged, whoops!
A busy job day yesterday, food shopping, housework etc....too boring to share.
I've been into work this morning, tomorrow and Saturday, with our local crop again this Sunday afternoon.  Another few busy days to follow. 
I now have all three classes for the retreat next weekend planned, the next job is to make up the kits and cut out.  The fun bit!  That is what I shall be spending the rest of this afternoon doing and probably tomorrow as well, I will have to see how I get on.

Today I thought I'd share another bespoke card with you.  The brief for this one is the lady is a teacher who likes her wine and has a blue VW campervan.
I think I included everything!

The papers are by DCWV Grade school and the digi I bought off etsy, embellishments from my stash.  The digi is coloured using my copic markers and glossy accents.

I do think these campers are cool or should I say "sick" as nowadays apparently cool is anything but! 
The mind boggles!
I look to my boys to keep me right with the lingo and they usual do.

Short and sweet today back tomorrow, have a super Thursday.  x

And now for something a little different.......less is more don't you know?!

Hi back again today and as I type I am looking out my craft room window, it's a beautiful clear blue sky, the sun is shinning and there's a nice breeze in the air. 
I'm just back from my early morning walk with the dog which is usually just over an hour, not the beach today but up through the country lanes instead. 
Time now to up date my blog whilst slurping a nice hot cup of earl grey tea....I've snaffled a couple of M & S biccies too!
I do wish hubby wouldn't buy them when he pops in to get a milk and bread.  Nomn, nomn.
My mind works on the principal the sooner I eat them all the less the temptation.  You can loose the weight but never the desire to eat something sweet and yummy.  I can not resist!

Back to today and as I showed you the last of my demonstration cards yesterday today I have something completely different.  The last few bespoke cards I have been naughty and not taken pictures of, usually keen just to get them to the customer but this one I remembered. 
This is a less is more card and was for a baby's Christening.

For this card I have used silver ultra thick embossing powder with an anchor stamp by PSX, button and cord from my stash and Martha Stewart punch Traditional scallop.

Now I must explain the nautical theme for a Christening card...the parents have Naval connections hence the anchor and button with rope theme.  I wanted to include the theme but still keep to a simple classic Christening style card. 
I do have a little sailor duck stamp which I thought might work, it was my first stamp I ever bought, but it didn't have the same feel.  It would have been great for a first birthday maybe but not a formal event like a Christening.
I was happy with the outcome and I do hope Lara's mum and dad like it too.

That's me done for today, I got my second class for the retreat designed yesterday so today it's thinking cap on for my third and final class.  Wish me luck!
Enjoy your Tuesday and happy crafting.  x

How about a sprinkling of snow, Spellbinder style?

Time for snow again, so wrong when the sun is shinning outside, but it has to be done, after all it is September already.  Where has the year gone? 
Before we know it, that time of year will be back around again!

Anyway I hope you all had a super weekend?

I had a very lazy day yesterday, I had planned to go fruit picking but the weather wasn't great so I finished a book Me before you by Jojo Moyes.  Oh my what a great book but beware I had a soggy tissue at the end. 
I then decided to make the biggest dish/floor cloth ever!  LOL.  Two balls of cotton for my cloth in the hope that the housework is completed even quicker...do you think it will work?

Back to today's card and this style is inspired by Marianne's folding cards.

This is mine closed.

Open stage one.

Open and stood up.

And finally inside.
You can find instructions to make these cards if you click on Marianne's name above along with two other cards along the same lines.  Aren't they fab?  Thanks for sharing Marianne.  x

For my card I have used the following products;
Spellbinder 2013 Snowflake pendant, Grand large scalloped, Opulent ovals and Grand classic circles.
Embossing folder Christmas wreath by Crafts too.
Stamps Woodware Huge snow and PI Snowflakes with holographic sparkle embossing powder.
The wreath is coloured with distress pens Broken china, Barn door and Crushed olive.
Papers by Docraft At Christmas and bling from my stash.

I love the way to close this card the semi-circle sides pop under the snowflake to secure but it would look equally as nice tied with a big bow, using eyelets to attach to the card.  It would make a super Wedding card for a special couple don't you think?  Obviously not in Christmas paper, that goes without saying, but thought I better mention it just in case someone out there thinks really?!  In Christmas papers?!

I'm starting to waffle so that means it is time to leave.  Today I am hoping to plan my second class of three for the up coming retreat the middle of this month in Aberdeen so I'm away to get my thinking cap on.  Have a super Monday.  x

A spellbinding weekend post for you Christmas style!

Good afternoon folks, how is your Saturday going?
I have to say I've had a busy one and I'm writing this quick before tea and settling down on my settee for an evenings viewing and maybe a little crocheting.  It isn't till you sit down that you realise how tired you are.  I love going into work early and finishing mid afternoon but as the evening approaches my early start does start to hit home.  Lightweight.com!
Anyway as I promised, before I nod off...the hectic social life that I have....I have another Spellbinder card for you and this time it is the new 3D M-bossabilities Rustic wreath.

And a cheeky side view.....

I love this wreath.  I have also used sentiment stamp Wishing you by Woodware, Ranger distress pens Fired brick and Barn door together with red Stickles.  The other Spellbinder die is Fleur de lis square and Classic petal Edgeabilities.  Finally twine, bling and the button from my stash with paper from Docrafts At Christmas.
I used Versamark in my embossing folder and then added Perfect pearl Green Patina before colouring the berries and finally adding stickles, well it wouldn't be Christmas without a little sparkle!
The card is A4 cut at 14.8cms width then scored at 1/4 A4 and 1/2 A4 with a 14.8 cm square added on top of the last 1/4 creating an easel card.  Does that make sense?! 
I'm sure you will have all made an easel card before?

That's all from me tonight, I'm away to have an M & S tea, a Saturday night treat and a cheeky glass of something nice.  Hick! 
X factor is back this evening, light family entertainment, which will be on whether I like it or not!  What always surprises me is that folk come on to sing sounding dreadful, which in my eyes is the best bit, but you think if they had friends and family someone would tell then..."sorry you can't sing for toffee!"
Isn't that what friends and family are for, rather than embarrass yourself on national TV? 
Still we wouldn't enjoy the show half as much if they didn't.
Enjoy your Saturday evening.  x 

What no post?

Forgive me for I have sinned.  I've just sat down to have a wee drink and remembered no blog post.  Whoops!
I'm in early at work tomorrow so up at 5. Gulp!  I only had one 5 o'clock in the day before starting work at M & S!
I am going to leave you in peace tonight but will post over the weekend instead.
Have a good one.

I'm late today but how about a little Christmas wreath?

Hi folks, a late post for you today as it was my day off everything today.  My pal Irene and I had the day out visiting wool shops, craft shops and a few tea rooms too.  Needless to say I am stuffed now with even more projects waiting to be made!  I could not resist!

Before I go any further I decided yesterday to have a bit of a clean up with my blog but I made a big mistake and did it over my phone.  Now I don't have fat fingers but sometimes they just don't hit the correct buttons so I should have know better but tidy I would.  Needless to say and cutting a long story short I somehow manages to delete all the comments over the last month or two that my lovely like minded buddies have left me.  So ladies I apologise.  Truly.  It just now looks like I have no friends!  LOL.  Bit of a computer illiterate moment.com!  It doesn't look that I can do anything about it too which I was a little disappointed about, such is life.  I shall think twice about using my telephone in future and stick to my main frame.  Boo!

Back to today and I have another Spellbinder die, the new Build a wreath one.

When I first opened this set of dies I did think....mmm how does this work then?  So if I thought this I'm sure you will too.
This is what I found......when you cut out the wreath, the central circle bit has slots in it, I then cut 3 sets of the other 6 bits of wreath and slotted them in around the circle.  There is no set way of doing this I just varied different sizes and shapes after each other.  I am left handed and would normal work right to left but this means you are slotting paper under where you have already been.  A little awkward.  So remember even if you are left handed work left to right as it is so much easier slotting on top of where you've just been instead.  The shape of your wreath depends on where you put all your separate pieces but I tried it a few times and each time loved the effect.
I have also used Spellbinder dies Opulent ovals and Edgeabilities Classic petal.  The paper is from Dovecraft Back to basic Christmas with button and pearls from my stash.

Having now played with this die I have to say I love it, it's great fun to build up and I love the fact you can change it every time.

Now I really must iron my uniform as I have an extra shift tomorrow, plus an ever growing pile, enjoy the rest of your Thursday and it will be another late post from me again tomorrow.  x

I'm thinking a Victorian Christmas Spellbinder style.

Morning back today with another card for you and this time I was thinking vintage Victorian but obviously with a touch of Spellbinders, well it would be rude not to!

For this card I have used Spellbinder dies Gold labels four and Layered Poinsettia (one of my all time favourite dies).  The leaves are a Martha Stewart punch, the paper is by Docrafts At Christmas, the sentiment stamp is from Woodware Wishing you, with bling and ribbon from my stash.
I think this paper gives a classic style with the added dark side, I like it as it's a little different from the normal cute Christmas cards.

I want to give a big "toot, toot" to all my crafting pals down in Coventry today and tomorrow for the big Ranger event with Tim Holtz courtesy of Personal Impressions.  I hope you all have a super day and look forwards to hearing all about it.  I have been lucky in the past to attend a couple of these events and have always thoroughly enjoyed myself.  I know you guys will too.  He is such a great teacher with a wicked sense of humour.  Have fun!

Meanwhile back in my little world today I have a bespoke card to finish from yesterday then I shall be starting my designing for the up and coming retreat next month at The Papeterie....what will we be doing?! 
That would be telling, I will say one thing......Spellbinders and ink will be included!

Have a super Wednesday everyone no matter what you are up to, oh and happy crafting!

Spellbinder snowflake dies are the best kind of snow, not cold or wet and great fun to play with!

Morning all, bright and breezy today, for now anyway.  It is a dreich start to the day outside so perfect for a morning in my craft room.  Like I need an excuse!

I have half a dozen bespoke cards to be catching up on today so before I start I thought I'd show you the next card in line from Sunday.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.....!

For this card I have used Sue Wilson's A4 embossing folder Interlocking circles, the new Spellbinder 2013 Snowflake pendant (these snowflakes just get better year on year) together with stamp set Huge snow from Woodware and paper from Dovecraft Back to basics Christmas.  The glitter is Distress dry glitter clear rock candy and bling from my stash.

I have bought some of the woodware "huge" stamps from their recent range loving the idea of paper piecing with them, a great way to use all those little scraps that you can't throw out but don't really know why you keep them.......just in case!  I have draws full of "just in case" scraps especially that really lovely paper that you eventually plucked up courage to use but still have bits left.
Please tell me that's not just me?!   Some paper is just too good!  (Come on you do know what I mean!)
I did have a friend who used to say to me, always buy two sheets of everything, one to keep and one to use.  You haven't seen my craft room but believe me when I say I wouldn't have the space, it's full enough already.

I'm also loving Sue's new range of products.  This A4 embossing folder is a great non generic pattern and a great addition to your craft supplies. 
We chatted about this on Sunday.  Some crafting supplies you just see and love and have to have, rain or shine.  It's a habit but we could be doing far worse, don't you agree?  That is always my excuse! 
The better way to shop is to look and think how much you will use a product, how many different cards you can design, or other ways the product can be used.  This folder in my humble opinion is one of these products that you would use time and time again plus the advantage of it being A4 means that it extends also to box making too.

I could chat away to you all day but it really is time now for me to get my thinking cap on and make a few cards, best pop the kettle on and have a cup of tea too.  Have a super Tuesday and I'll be back tomorrow with more.  x

It's was a jolly holly Spellbinder demonstration!

Ho, ho, ho!
It's a beautiful sunny August day so let's do Christmas!
I know, I know....it's early yet but that's just the way it is got to get those creative juices flowing early.

A great weekend was had here.  The curry and quiz night on Friday was good fun and I didn't come last which is always a bonus.  There is never a round where the specialised subject relates to crafting.  Boo!  I wonder why that is?  LOL.  I did learn a couple of interesting facts which I hopefully will retain for further quizzes but I very much doubt it.

Saturday was really busy and the dine in was nearly all gone by the time I left....how much wine!  Hick!  I was glad I bought my steak Friday as by lunch time Saturday it had all gone.  Mind I did enjoy it all the more when it was waiting for me when I got home complete with onion rings and a glass of vino, nomm.

On to Sunday and I'd like to start by thanking all the lovely ladies who came to The Papeterie for my demonstration, you made my day very enjoyable.  I can never believe how fast the day goes sat crafting and chatting. 
I hope you had fun too and have a few more ideas to try out at home.  Do let me know how you get on.
I am going to show you my cards this week in the order that I photographed them starting with this one which was inspired by the lovely Kerry.

And from the side...

I first took a piece of card stock 5 1/2" by 11" and scored it at 2 1/2", 4", 7" and 8 1/2".  Once folded like a table I placed my Spellbinder grand large scalloped circle die over the centre and cut with my calibur.  Be patient with this part as it does have to go through more than one layer of card.  This is one card where it pays to used a thinner quality card stock and run through the machine a few times.
Once cut out add a scalloped circle the same size to the top.  Then we're ready to decorate.
For my layering on top I have used Classic circles, Persian Motifs, and Opulent ovals.  The stamp is from Stampendous Christmas dreams and the papers are from Docrafts At Christmas which is textured like linen, very nice.  The ribbon and pearls to finish are from my stash.

I like this shaped card and the size of it is only limited by the size of your card stock.  It could also be used for lots of different occasions.  I like the idea of making a frog....don't ask me why but I think it would be a fun kids card with googly eyes and bouncy legs.  Also as I mentioned at the demo be envelope or box aware too, there is nothing worse than spending ages making a card and then not having a similar sided postal cover for it.  Mind you if you are of a creative mind you will come up with an alternative idea so no one will ever know! 

That is all from me today.  I have some paperwork to catch up on and some washing and ironing, boo hiss.  I'm away to put my Widow Twanky head on!
Have a super Monday especially if you are actually having the bank holiday today.
To all the Harley drivers heading home after your wild weekend in Aviemore, stay safe.   x

Today I shall mostly be saying a great big THANK YOU!

Hi folks and having got home from a busy morning at Marks, it's dine in weekend....need I say more.  Dine in is always very busy.  It is a good one this time with lovely steak and chicken, profiteroles or strawberries!  Nomn, nomn!

Whilst I wait the arrival of the Harley bikers for afternoon tea I thought I'd pop on and do a quick post.  Look what exciting parcel was waiting for me when I got in at lunch time....

Want to see more?
The lovely Elaine was having this fantastic giveaway on her blog.  You should pop and see her work, her cards are fabulous.  I would go so far to say her colouring in is stunning.  I keep saying I want to meet up so we can have a colouring session and swap some crafty ideas.
I can't believe Mr Random chose me...have a wee peek what I got.....

Now with that picture you don't really get the true impact of the glorious sparkly nature of this box so here is a better look...

Isn't it just wonderful?
Thank you so much Elaine for you generosity, I look forwards to playing with these wee beauties....mean time I shall just stroke them!  LOL.  Does it make me a bad person?!

I'm going to shoot off now as I can here a rumble in the distance and that might be the Harleys arriving. 
I've got a night out later this evening too and then back into work tomorrow.
Have a super weekend guys and don't forget if you are near The Papeterie in Aberdeen on Sunday between 11 and 4 p.m. pop in and say "HI!" 
It would be lovely to see you.  x

Biker dad!

Back again today with an oldie but goodie from the past. 
A busy little bee here putting the final crafty bits together for Sunday's demo before working tomorrow and Saturday in M & S.  It's going to be a busy weekend.

In honour of the Harley Davidson rally in Aviemore this weekend I thought I'd share this card I made my father back in 2008....I think I had more time to play back then!

My photography has improved slightly over the years!
The Harley papers and bits and bobs are all from EK Success.
I haven't make one of these shaped cards for ages.  I would have to refresh my memory to be able to give you instructions.  I didn't even give out instructions back in the early days,  how shocking is that? 
I do remember that both cards have three folds in them and when you sandwich them together you hinge the opposite folds together but as for sizes....brain and sieve spring to mind. 
Maybe I should slow time rejig this card and share....another project to put on the to do list. 

I also had a few comments from people asking about the recent box I made, not sure in how I put it together.  It has been added to the same list to share with you on a step by step front, if you would like me to?

As I mentioned at the top of my post I usually meet up with my parents in Aviemore for the annual Harley Davidson motorbike rally this weekend but unfortunately this year I am work, boo! 
Still I have it on good authority that a group of hairy bikes might arrive for afternoon tea tomorrow at some point, yikes better get some housework done!  Mmmm to bake or not to bake?! 
Best do the important things first......bathrooms here I come.

Have a super Thursday.  It might be a late post from me tomorrow, but as Arnold would say "I'll be back!"

Now that's a first for me!

Morning, now I forgot to ask yesterday how the kids got on back at school? 
Mum's did you enjoy getting back to normal? 
I've been busying away getting ready for this Sunday's demo at The Papeterie so haven't taking full advantage of the freedom.  I also probably have at least a couple of weeks good housework to crack on with and an ironing pile back to it's usual level after being away.  Boo, hiss.

Thanks for all your lovely comments yesterday and in answer to your question Tcake...it will be at Edinburgh, just like old times!
Elaine you did make me smile with your response, I did as I was told and made a cuppa before reading.  LOL. 
It is lovely to read all your comments and I do like to then pop on over to your place and see what you've been busy with. 

Did you enjoy the return of the Great British bake off last night?
I did.  I love Mary and Paul's response when tasting the food, Paul, the silver fox had me giggle when he spit a mouthful out last night, salt not sugar, blurgh! 
Mind you we all watched the show in our house and agreed at the end...boy did we need a large slice of cake, if only we got to taste test too.  I was told to get in the kitchen and get baking to which my response can't be typed on here! 
My hubby's response was to text my best mate, who had obviously also been watching because she asked him "salt or sugar?!"

I also found a Kirsty Allsopp show about entertaining from home.  I do love her vim and vigor to get the country trying crafts and making things by hand, she has done wonders for the industry encouraging those, unlike us "crafters" to embrace the homemade ethos. 
Mind you she does make me smile though and it's only my own observation....but not everyone has the means (if you know what I mean) to regularly entertain at home large groups with such a spread where the joint of ham alone was £70.  Or is that just me? 
She also has the best experts to hand....which is always a winner. 
That said I do enjoy all her programs and take bits from them that I know can work for me.  In fact when I get a bee in my bonnet about going around the auctions to find treasures my hubby has taken to calling me Kirsty!
My problem of course being I never finish anything for myself.  I problem I tend to rectify......soon!

Anyway enough of my chat I have some crafting to crack on with.....I have some Christmas spellbinder dies with my name on....I can here them calling my name and no I haven't had a drink, except my statutory morning cup of tea.
Whilst busy I thought I'd share this with you.......trumpet sounds.......my first granny square......

Now it isn't perfect and there is a mistake which I didn't pick up till I'd finished, but practise makes perfect.  I put a £1 coin next to it so you can see how small it is.  LOL.
You see I prefer cotton to wool and therefore I have to use a smaller hook.....I think I might have to convert to wool or I'll be making a blanket for ages. 
I am a novice with yarn and wools, plies etc.....but am starting to pick up the lingo, one thing puzzles me. 
Why call wool, wool when it is acrylic? 
Surely if you are going to the effort of making something so time consuming for someone, cotton or wool is the way to go? 
Do they both not wear better over time than acrylic?
I realise that cost is a big factor....having just bought a ball of cotton for the cost of a Spellbinder standard die...but it is wonderful, I must take a photograph and show you all.  Just my colours!
An extravagance of course but I'm hoping once worked it will be lovely.  Another project in the making.

Anyway that's all from me today, have a super crafty hump day....back tomorrow with more.  x

Excited.com!

Whoop, whoop.  #excited.
Do you have a bucket list?
I do.  It mostly involves visiting places...the usual stuff, Paris for the Eiffel tower, a German Christmas market, the tulip fields in Amsterdam, The Great wall of China, etc...etc...  I could go on for hours. 

What you might not know about me is that before I found crafting I used to dance and sing!  I know hard to believe now I had any training especially on the singing front.....totally tone deaf and now resigned to making noise whilst driving in my car.  (And that is polite).
I did once interview for a dance job on a cruise liner at the grand age of 16 but I was 31 days too young for the contract.  It was obviously not meant to be, which I was later glad of having found out that the whole troupe came home pregnant after their first trip!  I don't know if this is true as it was just rumour I'd heard...guess if it was the trip made a lasting impression!

It goes without saying that as a child with a dance and singing background I loved to go to the theatre to see musicals, opera or ballet.  (We did giggle at the men in tights!)  As a teenager we would visit London once a year for the hockey international at Wembley but the highlight of the weekend for me was the night visit to a show....Les Miserable, Joseph, Barnum to name but a few I loved them all.
As I got older but still living with my parents I would make trips to York, Darlington and even Scarborough to see shows or comedians during summer season, Victoria Wood probably my favourite.  I always giggle just thinking about her show as there was a group of pensioners sat in front of my friend and I who didn't really get some of her jokes with comments like....."she isn't that rude on TV!"  Whilst I sat behind them crying with laughter.

Then when I was based in Edinburgh I found the Playhouse....oh what joys...back to see Les Miserable again, Oklahoma, Buddy Holly etc...I must have gone a few times as I still now get the leaflet every year of what is coming, 15 years on.  Whoops!

When I met my husband and BC (before children) we would occasionally go across to Aberdeen or Inverness for a show or two.  Then the children came and theatre viewing stopped.  Boo!
Don't get me wrong I've been to a couple of performances earlier this year I saw Pam Ayers, she is still as funny as ever and we always go to a Pantomime over the Christmas season, usually Inverness, but not a big show....if you know what I mean.

Where am I going with all this....next month I am going to see this and am taking the kids, yay they're now old enough to enjoying it too.

Both are into their music and so were interested in seeing this.  I had them watch the film when it was on recently to give them an idea, my youngest one was wandering around singing for days!

On my bucket list is the Lion King.  See I got there eventually and here is where I was going!
My hubby and I were in Florida when the original film hit the cinema and the show at Disney and so have fond memories.....in particular getting soaked leaving the cinema with that downward full force rain they have over there in the summer months.

I loved the film and we still sing "Hakuna matata" now and again.  No worries!
I'm really looking forwards to now introducing my boys to the whole experience.....I predict lots of singing later this year, in-between the crafting of course!

Grumpy Harley riders, spellbinder style.

Afternoon all. 
A busy little bee here with kids haircuts later and school uniform etc...to sort, lastminute.com as always. 
I had a couple of bespoke cards that needed making this morning and a beautiful walk on the beach with the pup, not another sole in sight and such a sunny morning.  You'd think they would more folk about.
Anyway back today and I want to share this card I made recently for the head of the Grumpies!

 

So what are the Grumpies?

It is a group of older Harley bikers.  My Dad is a member see here.....

 

It's amazing how many women comment on his jacket, usually with such comments as, "I've got one of them at home!"
It always makes me smile.

For the card I used a stencil from The Crafters Workshop Mini flames together with Distress ink Fired brick and Ripe persimmon, Spellbinder die labels 30 and stamp from EK Success.

Better go and get sorting school bits and bobs.  Back tomorrow for more to share.  Then I shall be getting sorted for another demonstration this coming Sunday at The Papeterie in Aberdeen 11 till 4.
What shall I be working with? 
MMMMMmmmm
I'll let you into a secret it might be a little Christmassy!

MIA.....

Afternoon as Arnold would say I'm back!
Did you miss me, I doubt it.
I made a last minute booking down near my family in the North of  England to catch up with everyone before the children go back to school this week. 
I was promised Wi-Fi connection which is why I didn't mention anything before going.  I fully intended on posting whilst there.  Needless to say the connection at the site was poor and my father couldn't remember his password so very little access over the week, spits and spots would be more appropriate.
I caught up with my brothers new baby who was born in January and my pals baby who was born in June.  Babies r us!  Plus my parents, aunt, friends, nieces and nephews.
I had plenty of bosies and very little craft time. 
I did manage a little crocheting but that was about all.
I did manage a trip here......

But why I here you cry?

For one of these.....nomn, nomn. 
For those of you who haven't tried one it is a Lemon top ice-cream and a speciality of Pacitto's at Redcar.  I love them and they remind me of Sunday mornings spent walking the dog with my dad and brother, as a child.  The area has totally changed now but the ice-cream is still the best.
The beach at Redcar I don't think is as nice as ours here in the north of Scotland but it is famous. 
Have you seen the film Atonement? 
Well, that was filmed on Redcar beach.

We stayed at Tocketts Mill caravan park not far from my parents. 
We took the pup which was an adventure in it's self as she doesn't like travelling in the car.  She was a little unsettled during the week which was only to be expected but now she is back home she appears to be back to her normal self. 
It was a chilled out week with friends and family, no internet, games and books instead, oh and lots of eating.  Yep, the waist band has taken a hit but once the school is back I'm afraid it's back on plan for me too.

That's all from me today, the family and I have been invited out for Sunday tea and then hope to go to the cinema to see The Lone Ranger at the pictures with the lovely Johnny Depp.  Mmmm.
More from me tomorrow.

A Spellbinding box...but what's in the box?!

Morning.  Today I want to share the last of my demo samples from Aberdeen.  Not a card to finish with instead I have a box.  This box was inspired by the lovely Becca at Amazing Paper Grace, in that I have used the same die cut, but that is where the similarity ends.

From the top...

And the side....

For this box I have used Spellbinder grand die Hexagon Petal envelope together with Celtic motifs and Decagons.  The paper is from Papermania again and card stock plus bling from The Papeterie.  The box is made using an envelope die at the top and bottom then surrounding with two strips of card stock which is then covered with paper.  Satin ribbon from my stash.

I love this shape of box and it makes a change from a pillar box or square, as for what's in the box....well that would be telling!!

That's all from me today, with my washing machine now in full flow and a new iron.....I am again away to give Widow Twanky a run for her money.  Have a super Thursday.  x

A little tartan Spellbinding magic for you.

Afternoon already and it's a dreich dull day here in the North of Scotland.  Perfect crafting weather!
Today I want to share with you this card from my Aberdeen demo.

From another angle...

For this card I have used Papermania Christmas in the country together with Spellbinder dies Jewel Flowers and flourishes and Vintage labels two.  The sentiment is from JustRite Live, love, laugh vintage labels two.
To make this card you need to cut a 8½ x 4¼” piece of card stock and score it at 5½”.
Cut two pieces of patterned paper in 5¼ x 4″ and 2¾ x 4″ and add to above card.
Take an 8 x 3″ piece of card stock and score at 4″.
I cut a piece of 3¾ x 2¾” patterned paper and add to above card.  Attach two cards together.
Finally add your centre piece. 

It looks affective but is really easy to put together.

That's me finished my morning at work so now I have a card order to complete then some exciting catch up time with my new iron!
It looks like hubby has managed to fix my washing machine too, so Widow Twanky watch out....I'm about to give you a run for your money.  Typical today with the weather pouring with rain.
I had to smile as I'd just persuaded hubby to fix the old part back on the machine and patch it up so I could getting rid of some washing........he'd just finished as the new part arrived in the post...s*d law...or what?
He wasn't impressed but I did smile.  I knew if he made a temporary fix the part would arrive. 
Anyway folks enough of this chat I better go and crack on.  Enjoy your "hump day!"

Time for a cream tea anyone?

Back again today and I thought we'd have a picture of a different type of crafting today.  After a busy morning in work and a dog walk I am now sitting down to blog and then make a few card orders. 

On the home front a replacement iron has been purchased, can you guess what I'll be doing later?  Boo, hiss! 
But my washing machine is still out of action, at least the ironing pile won't grow!

Back to what I wanted to share today and that is my jam.  Remember I mentioned I'd been shopping high and low looking for jam jars?
This is the finished product and we're already 1/2 way through the first jar!

I have to get a Spellbinder die in my crafting somewhere, this is labels 4 together with the stamp set Rescue Remedies by Waltzing Mouse stamps.  I've been waiting for an excuse to use that stamp set for a while as it is great for labelling homemade goodies.
I'm loving those Kilner jars too # right posh!  Move over Jamie Oliver! 

Finally on another note I think I've worn the pup out.....but she seems to like the new chairs as much as me.

How very dare she!
Talk about making yourself at home....
Have a super Tuesday, I'm working again tomorrow so I'll have another late post for you.
Enjoy the rest of the day and happy crafting, whatever you are making.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow........not really but it is Christmas in August!

Afternoon all, another late one for me today but I did have a good excuse today.  I have had furniture delivered this afternoon so it was a case of needs must today, a wee move around and clean required.  I now have two lovely new armchairs from M & S in my back room and boy they're comfortable!  Oh and very stylish!

Did you have a good weekend?
I ended up at a BBQ Saturday after work then out for lunch yesterday with my boys with a good beach walk in the sunshine afterwards. 
The upside to my weekend....the washing machine and iron have broken!  So no making like Widow Twanky and washing and ironing the weekend away.  I hope to get the spare parts soon as the wet towels from the beach are mounting up.  The kettle also broke last week so I am hoping that is my three electrical gadgets for now.  There is always something, isn't there? 

Back to crafting and another card from my Aberdeen demo.  This time I have embossed the Spellbinder die rather than cutting, stencilling over it with Distress ink Evergreen bough.

I have used Spellbinder die Celtic Motifs.  I do love the shape of this die, it's a great medallion.  I have added the embellishments from my stash, the sentiment is from Crafty Impressions.
Less is more!
Again.

I now have some old furniture to get rid off.  I'm not looking forwards to getting the leather suit out of the house, jiggle it Granville!  I could be sometime.  Maybe I shall wait and get a couple of big burly men?!

Time for me to sign off, dog walking time as my kids seem to have lost the use of their legs this holiday. 
Is it me or do kids these days always have to be wired to something electronic?

On that note I will sign off the computer and go and get some exercise. 
Catch you later tomorrow too as working first thing. 
Happy crafting!  x

I have a confession.....here comes one of my favourite cards from the demo!

Did I say favourite?  I know we are not supposed to have favourites as it isn't PC. 
Don't you just hate it when you are told you can't do something as it isn't PC? 
I do. 
Life isn't fair and the sooner we accept it the better.  Is it wrong to tell my kids that? 
Some you win some you loose.  It is a fact of life. 
Or is it just me....hardmum.com!

So I am admitting on line that this is my favourite, it certainly was the card I demonstrated the most on Sunday too.  Maybe I'm not wrong then?  LOL.
Now you just want to see it.

I have used embossing folder Crafts-Too Noel together with card from The Papeterie.  To create the effect I have added Versa mark ink to the embossing folder before putting it through my die cutting machine.  I have then added gold perfect pearls over the swirls and Noel, then take a soft brush and remove the excess powder.   Using a sponge I have then removed what powder I don't want.  Then I have mixed more powder with water and painting over Noel to give a deeper coat.  Once dry I have used Diamond stickles on top of the Noel, mat and layered with coordinating card stock and finally added a bit of bling.  Simples!
Another relative flat card for postage and a quick way to colour, great for batch making as long as you leave the stickles to dry thoroughly. 

I love the effect of this card. 
Maybe I have found my design for this years Christmas cards?

Yesterday I bought more wool for my rug and managed to get a little more done, it won't take much longer now and I left the ironing for another day....#feel a bit naughty!
I have an early start again with work tomorrow but very little else planned.
I'm sure something will turn up between now and then. 
Enjoy your weekend and I'll be back next week with more.  x

Embossing your way through Christmas with a Krafty Scottish edge!

Morning, that's a first this week, posting in the morning.  It's my day off and the weather is pants, ain't that just sods law?  Oh well lots of other things to do.  I have my rug to finish and a crochet bag to start plus a list of card requests and that's just the fun things.  With three male members of the family and mum at work the house needs a good old tidy too.  I sometimes wonder whilst the kids are off school why we bother....surely it would be easier to chill and just have an overhaul once they've gone back to school?  That way I give myself permission to craft!  LOL.

My rug so far is coming on well even though it has been left feeling a little unloved for a while.  I have now decided I need more wool as it needs to be longer so fingers crossed a trip to Aberlour wool shop will be productive and that she'll still have the colours I need. 
Now to make a trip to a wool shop exciting for two boys?!  That's going to be a difficult one.
Wish me luck.

Back to Christmas card crafting today and I've picked one of my favourite colour combo....red, white and kraft.  Do you think with the plaid it has a Scottish feel? 
That was my plan.

I have used the same papers as earlier in the week from Papermania together with an embossing folders from Crafts too, Decorations.  I have used Personal Impressions embossing powder Hologram super sparkle, applying Versa mark ink to the embossing folder before running through my big shot.  The powder is then added all over the de-bossed image and heat set.  The edges of my cards have been distressed with my Tim Holtz tool and Vintage photo ink added.  The love tag is stamped with Fired brick distress ink and is from the stamp set by Just rite Live, love, laugh Vintage labels two.  The string and pearls are from my stash.
This design is super sparkly which you don't really pick up from the photo.  It is another good design for mass production at Christmas as once prepared it is quick and easy to repeat.

I guess now I've typed this I better go and get busy with something, maybe I'll start with some jobs then the craft time will be even more enjoyable.  That's my theory anyway.  Have a great Thursday.  x