A Scrapbook Junkie

2012-01-26T21:00:00.000+01:00

Anna Bowkis started the Pencil Lines blog almost 6 years ago. Sadly, she has decided to call it a day as she concentrates on her photography career. I've been on the design team for two of those years and have loved every minute of it. I have had the privilege of my layouts appearing alongside totally talented girls from all over the globe. I would like to say a huge thank you to Anna and the rest of the team - it has been a real pleasure.

On to the very last Pencil Lines sketch then. It was designed by Anna.

For my take on the sketch I pretty much kept to the original shape and layout but swapped the triangle piece for a circle.

I also created this fun little scene from the October Afternoon Farmouse collection. How adorable!

Thanks for stopping by. I hope that you'll continue to pop in and have a look around.

Recipe Box

2012-01-24T16:58:00.002+01:00

Our oven didn't work since moving house and this forced a lot of projects to be done in our house. We had to install and move the central heating before knocking down walls and having a new kitchen. I've been so pleased to get my kitchen back and in particular my oven that I've been baking a lot.

So for one of my projects at Manor House Creations, I thought I'd make a family recipe box. I imagine it will be somewhere I can store our favourite recipes and hopefully one day, my DD will bake them for her family.

I started off with an old wooden box. I used Cosmo Cricket's digi papers - Early Bird to cover the box. I also altered a few of their labels to suit my box.

Those fabulous flowers are my favourite - Chiffon (Peach) and Fairy Floss.

I also made recipe cards and dividers in Photoshop before printing them out.

The collage for the lid are images downloaded from the web mainly.
Thanks for popping in.

25 Disney Style

2012-01-22T22:43:00.000+01:00

Thought I'd give my blog a little makeover. It's been a while. I'll be tinkering around with it over the next week or so, so please bear with me.

Anyway, a quick share of a Christmas layout. Actually is was from a couple of years ago, but I've only just got around to scrapping it.

Papers are all October Afternoon. My little flags and bits and pieces are directly from a gorgeous card I received from Julie. It was such a great idea that I just transferred it to my layout and added some pieces of my own.

It's a great way to incorporate great cards into a layout.

It was certainly a Christmas to remember.

I'll leave you with a sneak peek of a project for Manor House Creations next month. It is one of my favourites so far.

Quick Post

2012-01-21T20:33:00.000+01:00

Been really busy redecorating this week. Our house is a massive improvement on when we moved in. Plus I have a kitchen which is always a bonus! I'll setup a gallery so you can have a poke around the before and after photos - they're quite something!

Anyway, I have been scrapping in between. Lighting been poor so it has been difficult to get some decent photos but I'd never share if I wait for a decent day.

DH bought me some lovely October Afternoon for Xmas. It is always a pleasure to play with their goodies. To make it stretch I've mixed in some Studio Calico and My Mind's Eye.

It was a great excuse to mix in some of this and that.

We stayed at Lake Buena Vista Resort the last time we were in Disney. The place is AWESOME! If you need somewhere to stay that's close and luxurious then check it out.

Thanks for popping in. I'm trying to get the next Pencil Lines sketch done before tomorrow. Yikes!

Pencil Lines Sketch 265

2012-01-16T20:37:00.000+01:00

It was my turn to provide the sketch this week over at Pencil Lines. Anna did a super job of creating the sketch from my layout. Here it is:

My original layout

I took this photo during our little photo shoot with Julie and Jackie back in August. My DD look so different with her hair up.

I used my favourite papers that came with my Studio Calico kit plus other bits and pieces from here and there.

Some of my absolute favourtie flowers from the Summer release of Manor House Creations.

Hop on over to the Pencil Lines blog for inspiration from the rest of the team. Thanks girls. You rocked this sketch!

Flower Giveaway at Manor House Creations

2012-01-11T19:44:00.002+01:00

Want to win some lovely new flowers? Look at these beauties.

Aren't they gorgeous? There are so many with such a great variety, they'll go with so many projects, layouts and cards.
TO WIN…….

* ‘Follow’ the MHC blog
* Leave a comment about Manor House Creations flowers – what you think, what you love, what you don’t love…we want to know!
* ‘LIKE’ Manor House Creations on Facebook HERE.
* Leave this image and a link to this post, on your blog.

The prize winners will be chosen at the end of the month (31st January, 2012) for the best and most useful comments. MHC want feedback!

So anyone can win! But you will need to do all 4 steps above.

So come on girls - what are you waiting for?

There is also a monthly challenge on the blog to win yet more goodies.

Here is what I did for January's sketch by Monika.

I converted it to a round layout.

I was having a little monochromatic moment during December. I like the way all the blue and white really makes the photo pop.

Best of all if you take part, there is the utterly gorgeous 'Bright Side of Life' collection up for grabs. It's designed by the talented Karola Witczak and The ScrapCake!

Full details and more inspiration can be found here. Just send your entry to designteam@manorhousecreations.com before 31st January. Good Luck!

Happy New Year

2012-01-05T23:34:00.001+01:00

Ahh yes, a little late I know, but Happy 2012 to you all!

We had a quiet festive period here which I'm very thankful for after all our upheaval last year. The builders finally went home a few days before Christmas giving me time to clean up after them. Christmas day was a great success and it was wonderful to have a kitchen and oven again.

Anyway, I'll catch up on a few layouts from the last month but will try to spread them out a little over the next few days. Here goes:

I started this layout at our last crop. I have Julie Taylor to thank for the papers and stickers. I sat there feeling sorry for myself as I hadn't had any new stash to play with for ages and Julie let me play with her October Afternoon goodies. Well, what a generous friend she is. How gorgeous!

It did take me a very long time to cut any papers though and I had to mix it in with some older stuff - I felt really bad using Julie's gorgeous stash.

The mark of a truly wonderful friend!!

See that punched tag? Jackie has some marvellous dies in her tool bag.

I'll leave you with a layout I did for Manorhouse Creations last month.

Boo is my brother's gorgeous new springer spaniel puppy. Isn't she adorable?!

I love these pretty flowers - they are just so easy to use. I think this is a record number of flowers for me. I think I used 16 flowers on one layout! Phew! I will need a lie down.

Blossoms – Airlie, Esperance & Avoca.

Thanks for popping in. I am back on track now for more regular posts.

Pencil Lines Sketch 264

2011-12-19T11:16:00.000+01:00

A little late with this one, but this week's sketch is by Ria.

For my layout, I used MME 'I Believe' papers. Unfortunately, because the weather has been so dull around here, my picture doesn't do justice to the colour :(

I added loads of sparkly snowflakes to compliment the shiny baubles.

Silver wire twirls across the snowflake border.

We finally have our Christmas tree up. The builders and plumbers still haven't finished so still not able to cook. Grrr... Anyway, it won't dampen my Christmas spirit - not sure who is more excited the Kids or me.

Hope you're enjoying the festive season. Thanks for popping in.

Rockin' Robin

2011-12-11T20:31:00.000+01:00

So a few weeks ago I had it in my mind to make a festive robin. It's great when you have a clear idea of what you want to make - it makes it so much easier.

My idea expanded to put the robin on a 'cake' but he needed something else. I then hit on the idea of an English postbox.

I trailed gorgeous 'Cutie Pie' flowers and leaves. These gorgeous little flowers have the special advantage of being 'Flowers for the Children'. Manor House Creations will kindly donate 15% of the proceeds from all these flowers to World Vistion. You can see more details here.

As I've used them in a Christmas setting, I added a sprinkle of snow to my leaves and tendrils and added my own tiny pine cones.

My robin is posting his christmas cards (I made tiny envelopes). I don't think his christmas parcel will fit in the letter box though! He also has his Christmas list ready to tick off as he goes.

My robin started life as a polystyrene egg. I punched out hundreds of tiny hearts and glued each one individually. I made his wings and a tail before adding his santa's hat.

All the flowers are Manor House Creations and the papers are My Mind's Eye (I Believe).

He will definitely take pride of place once I get the house decorated for Christmas (we still have no kitchen at the moment and our house looks like a war-zone). Ho Hum!

Thanks for popping in.
Enjoy your weekend.

Manor House Creations

2011-11-29T10:00:00.002+01:00

Last month the DT over at MHC celebrated Summer making the most of the fabulous summer flowers.

We spent our summer holidays in Cornwall this year, which is always stunning regardless of our british weather.

I think I was having a distress moment with this layout and funked up everything with Gesso and glitter.

A little swipe of Gesso over all the embellies for that just got off the beach effect.
I have gone a little mad this month with my project for MHC. I'll share a little sneak peak with you as I'm hopeless at keeping things to myself. LOL.

I created this cut robin by sticking down hundreds and hundreds of punched hearts. Talk about a labour of love!

So be sure to pop back in December to see the rest of this uber-cute project.

Thanks for stopping in.

Friends

2011-11-27T20:38:00.000+01:00

The best way of making new friends is by having something in common. Julie and Jackie are mad about scrapbooking so we're bound to be great friends. I've known these wonderful people for 3 years when we started our crop (wow, time flies).

Their effervescent personalities are bound to make any day extra ordinary.

These guys always cheer me up whenever I see them.

Thanks for popping in.

Morag x

Oh I do Like to be beside the Seaside

2011-11-22T17:44:00.000+01:00

It seems a little funny to share a summer project with you, but of course it is Summer in Australia where Manor House Creations are based.

Mini albums are a great way to store memories without being overwhelming. I created a mini book from scratch just using some 12x12 and the gorgeous Summer at the Seaside collection from Scrapcake.

I do like a little texture on my pages, so I teamed up the lovely Tropics by the Pool flowers with some leaves and shells. I inked the background over a compass mask. Finally, I topped it all off with lots of glitter.

To keep the album simple, I created all the pages as 8x6 folding over the remaining 4" of cardstock to make pockets and flaps.

The flaps add a fun twist to the book. I adorned this page with the tiny bathing costumes on a washing line (well who can resist)?

All the pages are decorated simply with the flowers doing all the work.

I added some white paste (snow writer) and glitter for extra sparkle to these gorgeous Tropics flowers (Whitsunday).

So the next time you have an occasion to scrap, why not try making a mini-album of your own?

Thanks for stopping by.

Morag x

Pencil Lines Sketch 260

2011-11-20T20:00:00.002+01:00

The weeks are whizzing by aren't they? Only feels like 5 minutes since my last sketch entry.

For my layout I tilted the sketch to give it a twist. I have used a photo of our best friend's beautiful daughter. She is dinky and so pretty but boy can she be fiesty! I managed to capture her while she was watching the halloween fun and games. Sorry my photos are poor - been dull all week.

I has used papers from Scrap Cake. They were designed by Karola Witczak who is obviously the queen of patterned paper!

These stunning flowers from Manor House Creations are incredible. It is a shame to put them away in an album so I'm going to display my layout for a while. Click on the photo for a larger view.

I love the way they are so different to one another. This one has layers of fabric and lace. Gorgeous!

And a final flower and some leaves top off an empty corner.
Thanks for stopping by. enjoy the rest of your weekend.

Perfect Pumpkins

2011-11-19T08:39:00.000+01:00

I've never been to Hawaii, but that's how it feels like around here! Heaven is when you get your hot water and central heating back. I missed you guys! It really makes you appreciate what you take for granted.

I did this layout a while ago after visiting the pumpkin patch during the school holidays. It was such a glorious day. The kids were, shall we say, not exactly co-operative about having their photo taken though.

This amazing flower is of course from Manor House Creations. I love the way that the petals can be bent and shaped to suit your design and the added texture it brings.

I added my some of favourite things to this little corner. Paper flowers (also MHC), dictionary leaves and a Pink Paislee stamp.

And here is what we did to our pumpkins. Not a great photo, but halloween was a bit pushed this year.

Fancy eh? Lauren's cat is on the left. Enjoy your weekend.

Even more Brrr

2011-11-15T14:26:00.000+01:00

Our house is absolutely freezing while we're having our central heating changed. No heating and no hot water for 4 or 5 days. Thank goodness for fan heaters and our lovely new stove.

Anyway on to scrapping. I did this layout for the Color Room challenge but never got around to posting it up. So here it is anyway.

My favourite flowers from Manor House Creations. We soooo need to get these to the UK because they're even more lovely IRL and you need them too!

I added a little birdie on a branch and some little paper roses. Papers are MME (spot) and Studio Calico.

I received my box from Manor House Creations yesterday. It is jam-packed with the most stunning flowers. I hope to get some photos while the sun is out later. WOO HOO!
Thanks for popping in.

Brrrr

2011-11-12T19:13:00.000+01:00

It's definitely getting chilly around here. I'm happy though because we have had a stove installed in our house. Woo Hoo! Any time it's chilly I can burn a few logs and toast my toes. What fun! Can't wait for a long cold winter.

Thought I'd share a layout or two so I can catch up with all my scrapping fun.

I borrowed these Pink Paislee stamps from Barb ages ago. I completely forgot to post up the layout that I made with them. Sorry Barb!

I used some of my favourite flowers (I don't do purple but these are more pinky-purple). Punched the leaves from old dictionary pages and coloured with distress inks.

The stamps had lots of cool words and journaling bits which I've stamped here and there. The clock kind of brings it altogether.

I added a curl or two of wire to finish off my flowers.

We were going to hold a halloween party again this year, but our house rennovations meant that we couldn't. So I had to use up the treats that I bought including the jelly.

Our favourite game is to hide sweets inside the jelly. The kids have to dunk their faces in the jelly to look for them. Really gross but a lot of fun.

I fancied a clean and simple LO for a change. This one only took me a couple of hours - very fast for me!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend. Thanks for popping in.

Pencil Lines Sketch 258

2011-11-06T20:00:00.000+01:00

When we went to Hanbury Hall recently (NT property), we discovered the most fabulous, rusty old 'caravan'.

I think I was the only one who really loved the texture and age of the thing, but hey ho. I wanted to do a layout with a lovely rusty feel.

You may not be able to directly translate my layout from the sketch, but I took the basic pieces and rearranged them to suit my photo.

I used cogs instead of the diamonds. They have been 'rusted' with distress powder before being inked, splodged and inked again.

Used some bits and pieces that I found here and there for a bit more texture.

I also grunged the border strip and fabric strips. I'll need to tuck some journalling around somewhere but I'll leave that for another day.

Thanks for popping in. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

Scrap 365!

2011-11-03T22:14:00.000+01:00

WOO HOO! I got my copy of Scrap 365 today and it is AWESOME! Katy has done such a great job of editing/presentation. The truly amazing layouts and projects are jaw-dropping and very inspiring. Think it will knock your socks off. Best order your copy asap!

Thought I'd share a layout celebrating my DS starting at his new school. He looks very smart in his blazer. And very grown up!

Used a bunch of random items that have been lurking in my stash. I'm on a mission to make good on some old stuff and some bargain goodies I picked up from 3 Jolly Scrappers.

I used some bits and pieces including an owl from Primark (earrings), and a cool clipboard paperclip (Amy Tan?)

TFL!

Playing Catch Up

2011-10-29T15:17:00.000+01:00

We've been enjoying half term this week. With the weather being so mild, it gave us a chance to get out and about for a few days. We picked pumpkins and carved them. I also broke my camera's lens :( So I'm relying on my 50mm. It's a great lens but you have to be that much more prepared to get the right shot. Still practise makes perfect.

A quick share of a scraplift that I have done. I'm not one for scraplifting normally, but when I saw a layout that my friend Julie Taylor created that I had to do one too. I can't remember exactly how Julie did hers, but I know it had labels and a great long title. So here goes...

We had gone to a National Trust property. DS who doesn't like having his photo taken started goofing around. The light was really great so I snapped away.

I had to come up with a very long title. It is a great way of using all those letters up.

I used my Dymo to punch the small words from cardstock. I just sanded them down to reveal the white core.

A few stamped images, punches and stickers adorn the photos. What fun!

Thanks Julie for such great inspiration. All you need is a blog now so we can share all the wonderful layouts that you do!

Enjoy your weekend.

Pencil Lines Sketch 256

2011-10-23T20:00:00.000+01:00

Golly, is it that time again already? The weeks seem to go faster and faster around here. Just as things were getting back to normal, I decide to have the fireplace ripped out (it was very horrible) and make way for a real fire. I'm so excited. I have visions of toasting marshmallows around the fire this winter. Can't wait!

Anyway, onto this week's sketch.

As I have been pushed for time once again this week, I've not made it as fancy as I would like perhaps.

I've had these Pink Paislee papers for ages but couldn't bring myself to cutting them up. But they had to go....

Also a bit of Graphic 45 which was a favourite from last year.

As we now have a porch, I'm going to decorate it with my Halloween projects from last year. Hopefully get around to doing that and post up some projects too.
Thanks for popping in. I really appreciate your comments.

A bit of Whimsy

2011-10-20T23:15:00.001+01:00

I created this project last month for Manor House Creations and I've been dying to share it with you.

I received a copy of Tilda's Studio by Tone Finnanger in which she has created more stunning fabric projects. When I saw the bird cage I knew I just had to make one of my own (in paper of course).

My cage doesn't have a bird at the moment since it got lost in our move, but I'm on the look out for a replacement.

Instead, the cage is filled with gorgeous MHC flowers: Ganadma’d Garden – Antique & Handkerchief, Cottage Garden – Picket fence, Ballroon – Waltz.

I have also added some tulle, pearls and ribbon to finish it all off. Hop on over to the MHC Blog for even more fabby inspiration.

I have loads of new layouts to share if I can get some decent light to photograph them, so be sure to pop back soon. Thanks for popping in.

Pencil Lines Sketch 255

2011-10-16T20:00:00.000+01:00

What can I say? It's like buses around here - all come at once!

This week's sketch was provided Cathy.

My layout features the fab Pixie Glen papers from Prima as who can resist such prettiness?

I was wondering how to make my papers work with the sketch when I thought about the Disney film Tangled. We waited for over an hour and a half to see Rapunzel and Flynn Rider (who was truly super sweet). I got to thinking of story books so I placed my photos on a homemade book.

It is a bit hard to see from my photo, but I stuck the pages down so they are curved with my photos stuck on the top page. Looks great IRL.

Been hogging these tiny scissors for ages so they had to go on too!

Don't forget that you can take part in the sketch too. There is a monthly draw for the best layout so well worth playing along. Thanks for popping in. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

Pencil Lines Sketch 254

2011-10-15T18:54:00.000+01:00

Whoopsie. I forgot to post up my layout from last week's Pencil Lines sketch.

The Sketch was provided by Anna Björklund.

Here's my take:

I used the super-cute Prima Pixie Glen and generally messed them up with some inks and distressing. The papers are so pretty that it was hard to put anything on top of them at all!

I used a bunch of prima flowers, leaves and that oh so cute window resin.
Thanks for popping in. I'm going to schedule my post for this week's sketch now so I don't forget!

You've Got Mail!

2011-10-13T21:00:00.001+01:00

The MHC team were sent a whole heap of lovely flowers to play with last month so picking just a few for a project can be a challenge in itself! One of our 'challenges' was to create a project using Dew Drop flowers.

I came up with this idea whilst pondering my recent house move. House warming presents are normally restricted to plants or perhaps a bottle of wine. I wanted to come up with something a little different for a new home owner.

I love American mail boxes - they always look so cute. I also love anything poking out of the top of a bucket so putting the two together was just up my street! I used a florist's oasis to secure the flowers. A little extra hot glue keeps everything in place.

I made the mail box by cutting out two arch shapes and then connecting them together with card.

When layering your flowers, don't forget your leaves - they're just as important as the flowers and will set off your decoration!

Products: Cottage garden – Dew Drops, Grandma’s Garden – Handkerchief, Rose leaves.

Check out the Manorhouse Creations blog for more fanatastic inspiration.

Thanks for popping in.
Morag x

Must do Better (at blogging)

2011-10-09T08:26:00.000+01:00

Life is really manic around here at the moment. The electrician has been here most of the week opening a can of worms. Wires not doing what they are supposed to, my dishwash is live which is why I was getting an electric shock from it. On top of that the decorator has been ridding us of ugly wallpaper and builders and kitchen designers have been trapsing around so we can get some quotes. Who wanted to move house? Oh yes, that was me!

Anyway. My evenings haven't been entirely wasted but I have been working on things that will need to wait for blogging. So I'll share a couple of layouts I did for Fiskars a few months back.

I had packed up much of my stash when I was a GDT so I relied on my lovely Fiskars border punches and used them in different ways.

Of course, the fab Pink Paislee stamps are just gorgeous on top of a little border.

I spritzed the border here so I could scrunch it for a bit of texture.

This was a real fun layout to do. I used the Fiskars Shape Cutter to cut out the tree, squirrel and acorns. They seemed a perfect addition for those naughty chipmonks Chip and Dale!

For the border, I pnched a scallop border which was then snipped at small intervals to go around the outside of the circle. Patience and tape is key here, but works very well. I found lighter cardstock weight the best for this.

Anyway, I appreciate you sticking with me. I'll be back tomorrow with my layout for Pencil Lines. Hope to see you then!

Pencil Lines Sketch 253

2011-10-03T21:10:00.000+01:00

Bit of a late post, but better late than never!

This week's sketch was provided by Carina who provided us with a 6x12 sketch.

I only scrap 12x12, so extended my layout to use a full page.

I created some circle masks which I used to ink my background. I then used these circles as a template to add the dotted lines. More circle patterned papers here and there. Voila!

Speaking of sketches, Manor House Creations have launched a sketch challenge this month. There are a huge bunch of flowers up for grabs! Got to be worth a go I'd say. Here is their challenge sketch:

There are 5 packs of brand spankin' new flowers up for grabs. WOW! You have until 31st October to enter so what are you waiting for? Just check out the post here for all the details.

Thanks for popping in.

Blog Winner

2011-09-29T21:04:00.000+01:00

Firstly, thank you all for your lovely comments! I've never had so many on my blog before :)

The winner of my blog candy is.....

KATHY ROGERS!!!!

Congrats Kathy. Please email me your details (cropkat@gmail.com). I have raided my stash and have found some fab American Craft Thickers, Studio Calico, some embellies and more.

Check out the Scrap 365 blog for the main winner. Don't forget to sign up for the new mag which launches on 18th November (it is going to be fab).

In the meantime, I'll share my first project for Manor House Creations with you (i have since done a whole bunch with these gorgeous flowers).

As you may already know, we moved house at the beginning of the month. The house is older than our last one (about 60 years old) has plenty of solid walls but is in dire need of rennovation.

We'll be spending the next few years knocking it about and redecorating. I'm determined to make a good record of it this time, so I'm sure you'll see our progress on my pages.

I used a mixture of flowers for this page as well as combining them with all important leaves.
Products used: TSC ‘The Bright Side of Life’ collection, MHC flowers – Cottage Garden ‘Fragrance’, Ballroom ‘Waltz’, Tiana white & rose leaves.

The papers are 'The Bright Side of Life' from Scrapcake.

Thanks for popping in.

Morag x

Scrap 365 Blog Hop

2011-09-22T18:50:00.000+01:00

I have some jolly exciting news to share with you. The UK are about to get a new shot of inspiration from Traplet Publications (we all love Craft Stamper Magazine).

Scrap365 is a brand new scrapping/journal magazine full to the brim of exciting projects and scrappy inspiration. If you have popped in on the off-chance, then head along to the Scrap 365 Blog to start your hop.

For my part of the hop, I have to introduce myself with a favourite project from this year.

Well this is me (don't you hate having your photo taken).

I live in the centre of England with my lovely family (tolerant hubby Pete) and my two marvellous children.

I have been hooked on scrapbooking ever since I created my first page 6 years ago. I love the way that anything goes and so many things can be incorporated onto a page. Building up layers and texture is definitely one of my favourite things on a page – I rarely do clean and simple! Stamping, inks and patterned papers will always be my favourite elements although I am particularly partial to punches at the moment especially border punches.

I am fortunate enough to be on Craft Stamper Magazine’s design team which certainly leads the way with creativity and pushing crafting boundaries here in the UK.

I can’t wait for Scrap 365 to hit the newspaper stands. I’m anticipating that there are going to be totally fabulous projects inside!

Here is a favourite project from this year.

The project appeared in Craft Stamper Magazine, earlier this year and features fabulous Alice in Wonderland images.

My cake was made from various round boxes and finished off with a 'top hat'. I had fun making the little cake and using tiny bottles.

I used tiny playing cards and more clock images here and there.

Well that's me. Leave me a comment and I'll pick out a random winner for a RAK (I have a bit of stash stock-piled here).

Why not hop along Suzy Beecher for more inspiration. Remember to leave comments on all the blogs along the way to win a year's subscription to Craft Stamper Magazine PLUS fabulous stamps worth £20!
Thanks for stopping by.

Class Layout

2011-09-14T23:59:00.001+01:00

I've been busy, busy, busy here. Nicki and I are recuperating after hosting our charity crop last Saturday. We were raising money for Cancer Research UK. We raised a totally awesome £900! Thanks to all the lovely ladies for making it such a fabulous day out and all our generous sponsors.

I have been really busy with projects for Manor House Creations. It's amazing how much fun it can be when you have free reign and a big box of goodies to play with. I can only share a sneaky peak at the moment, but check out the Manor House Blog for lots of gorgeous inspiration.

The flowers are stunning aren't they?! I'm sure you would love to own some flowers for free - who wouldn't???!!

All you have to do to win, is get your shop to place an order, email us telling us which shop you requested our flowers at sales@manorhousecreations.com & we will send 6 extra packs for you to collect next time you order from, or visit, that shop.

This offer is open to anyone worldwide!!
(Please note: this offer is open to shops that make their first order from 13/09/11, not to existing customers).

Sounds like a great deal to me.
Anyway, onto a layout I have done for our monthly local crop. I have used Prima flowers and papers for this one.

I teamed these papers up with some beautiful co-ordinating flowers, pretty pearls and lace.

You can tell that little flags are my current thing at the moment. LOL.

Thanks for popping in. Enjoy the rest of your week.

Exciting News!

2011-09-03T20:37:00.001+01:00

Sorry for the gap in posts but we finally moved house on Weds! Yay! It was a bit of a close run thing as they only sent 2 men to move us. After complaining they did send more and eventually there were 10 of them! Anyway, I'll be taking some pictures of our doer-upper house so you can laugh at the delightful patterned carpets :) ROFL.

Anyway the real exciting news is that I have made the DT for Manor House Creations. Wow!!! I am truly excited. This brand-new Australian company have created gorgeous flowers. Check out their blog for all the latest info.

I have just received my first box of goodies (you'll be so jealous!) so I can't wait to start playing. The unpacking will just have to wait :)

In the meantime, I'll share my layout that I did as GDT for Fiskars.

My layout features some photographs I took when I did a photoshoot with Julie & Jackie a few weeks ago.

I was inspired by nature so I used the Fiskars Butterfly stamps as my starting point.

Thanks for dropping in. I have a few layouts which need to be photographed and I'll work on my first project for Manor House Creations.

Sew Cute

2011-08-26T20:16:00.000+01:00

I'm still playing catch up with layouts I did months ago. This one was just waiting for a photo so I took a quick photo of DD with a rag doll she made from a kit. It was one of those birthday presents that you think, uh oh. It did take us a while and some patience to get it done, but she was determined as always.

Love these Crate Papers and stickers. You may also notice a stamp (MME) and those die cuts are Tim Holtz.

Just need to add some journaling now, but I thought I'd post as it make take some time :)

Reluctant Model

2011-08-23T20:12:00.000+01:00

As I posted previously, I applied to a photo magazine to take part in one of their regular articles. It turned out that my day was more about modelling with the camera bags than it was taking photos. I'm definitely better off behind the camera!

I did this layout about a month ago but had forgotten I had scrapped the photo, so had done another layout. Just shows that my brain is very mushy.

Used a bit of this and that, but mainly bits from the Echo Park For the Record pack. Obviously added my favourite random stamps, just because!

Thanks for stopping by.

Pencil Lines Sketch: 251

2011-08-21T20:00:00.000+01:00

This week's sketch features a single photo and photo mats open to interpretation.

I adapted the background paper pieces to include a semi-circle, but found I needed to move the vertical paper to the left to make it work.

Lastly, I added a journal circle below the title because for once, I had something to journal!

All the papers and stamps are American Crafts. Just adore the papers as they are either embossed or glittered and very pretty.

I especially love the little rosette stickers. So much neater than my own.

Thanks for popping in.

Happy Days

2011-08-16T20:12:00.000+01:00

When I saw these American Craft papers and embellishments, I knew they were for me! Ellie had put a kit together which included the most gorgeous glittery papers, embellishments and stamps.

I really fancied a hot air balloon, so I pieced one together. Now I'm not the world's best at drawing so it is on the simple side.

Found it a bit fiddly to get the pieces to look symetrical. I was looking forward to visiting the Ballon Fiesta in Bristol last weekend, but unfortunately, it was all too short notice. May be next year.

Look at those fabulous rosettes. So neat!

Thanks for dropping in. I've used more American Crafts for this week's Pencil Lines sketch, so be sure to pop back on Sunday for that one.

All Natural

2011-08-14T17:14:00.002+01:00

I had this layout sitting around for some time now waiting for something to happen to it. You know when you need that little burst of something - normally it's when something new arrives!

I saw a a blog called Polkadot Door Designs and loved the inspiration for the challenge.

The kickstart for me on this occasion was all handmade. As the inspiration was the same colour as my layout, I thought I'd dig out a flower I made ages ago.

The soft peachy colour goes really well with the Webster's Pages. I also added a little frame embellishment I made (you'll be seeing a lot of these *wink*).

I teamed up the pretties with some Prima lovelies and the Prima mask.

And just some more random leaves and things here and there.

I think this is my current favourite layout. Thanks for popping in.

No Place Like Home

2011-08-10T22:07:00.000+01:00

As you may know, we're attempting to move house again this year. After more ups and downs (I won't bore you), we're due to move in the next few weeks. We've been here 15 years almost and it has only been this year, that I got my craft room exactly how I wanted it. Ho hum.

When I saw these papers from Graphic 45 they just had to pop into my basket. They reminded me of their Alice in Wonderland set which I adored. As clearly I had nothing related with the Wizard of Oz, I went for an idea about home.

I'll do another layout about the specific things I'll miss, but for now, I concentrated on my lovely craft room at the bottom of the garden.

I love the vintage images of these papers and just had to dust off the typewriter.

The gate stamp is Hero Arts, the birdcage is MME. All the rest is Graphic 45.

I'll share some more projects in the next day or so. Thanks for popping in.

Pencil Lines Sketch: 249

2011-08-07T20:00:00.000+01:00

I played along with this week's sketch for Pencil Lines this week. I had to do it from memory as I'd already turned off my computer. As my memory isn't that great, I did get a couple of details wrong, but it is more or less the same as the sketch (I think).

I used up some of my favourite old Prima papers from last year's kit for this one. I didn't have much time to complete the layout, so I had to skip some things I'd love to have done.

I'm particularly fond of these Prima flowers. I'm down to my last few, so I'd better go easy. I always think flowers look better if they're grounded with leaves. They make a world of difference to a cluster.

I had a challenge to hand in my layout on time and my typewriter decided to play up! I ended up with very inky fingers trying to sort out the ribbon. No wonder why they're obsolete.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

TGIF

2011-08-05T19:21:00.000+01:00

We're into our 2nd week of the summer holidays. The weather has been great so we've been hanging out at home and the kids have been down the water slide. Best £30 I ever spent!

Thought I'd share a layout that I did last week for Fiskarettes blog celebrating DD first dance show back in June.

I used the Fiskars scallop punch to create a border which I then snipped before adhering it to the back of the circle. This works best with light-weight cardstock, but I have done it successfully with Bazzil also.

The dress form is Tim Holtz of course. I stamped various butterflies (Fiskars) before inking with Distress Inks. I normally use a darker colour around the edges to add depth.

That drop-dead gorgeous flower is Prima and the cute little flags are Pebbles Inc.

All the papers are from a Studio Calico kit.

Just before I go, I thought I'd show you a sneaky peek of my class for our Charity crop. Oohh, the kit is gorgeous! There are still a couple of places left if you fancy coming or want the kit. Check out the What Housework Blog for more info.

I'm also playing along with this week's sketch at Pencil Lines.

The reveal is at 8pm GMT on Sunday. Hope to see you then!

Enjoy the glorious weather all. Thanks for popping in.

Five Minutes of Fame (almost)

2011-08-01T18:00:00.002+01:00

I recently applied to a camera magazine to be their apprentice for the day. They show you how to do stuff with your camera and you have to pose for their photos. Well my day didn't quite go like that but I did have to pose for the camera all day long. I felt a bit of a dufus.

I had to pose with various camera bags (8 in all) in various locations. Well, at one location there were tourists around. The photographer had the umbrellas, reflectors out so it looked like I was some sort of model. I'm sure people must have pointed and thought - 'She isn't much of a model is she?' ROFL. I definitely prefer it behind the camera than in front!

I actually completed this layout some time ago, but just need a photo. The magazine sent me a couple of photos which was perfect for this layout. I love this Prima flower (very extravagant)

Another little collection of things and a cute envelope. More Prima flowers clustered together.

My favourite Thicker Stickers - Doll (vanilla). They are canvas and just great for stamping on.

Thanks for popping in.

Pencil Lines: Sketch 248

2011-07-31T20:00:00.001+01:00

I thought I'd play along with the sketch this week for Pencil Lines .

Quite a straight-forward sketch with plenty of scope to adapt it to suit your style or theme.

I've gone with a photo from my DS leaver's party (he's on his way up to senior school). The kids are at that in-between age when they're too big for juniors but a tad too little for seniors/teens. I wanted a more funky/grown-up feel to reflect this.

Had a play with some chipboard, inks, paints and sprays. I of course added lots of stamping here and there (well it would be rude not to).

Dusted off the trusty typewriter for the journalling (best £7 I ever spent).

So how about playing along this week? This will definitely get your mojo up and jogging. Check out

Pencil Lines for great inspiration from the team.

Morag x

Enjoy the Journey

2011-07-29T18:00:00.000+01:00

You know when you've been tidying up and you come across something you had forgotten. Well this was one of those times. I did this layout back in April, but had never got a good photo of it. Unfortunately, this one isn't much better, but at least you'll get the idea.

We visited Busch Gardens for the first time this year which was great - it made a real change to get out of Disney. The papers are of course, the totally awesome, Pink Paislee and some other bits from Studio Calico.

Check out those Glitter Thickers - lush aren't they?!

Some random pieces and strips along the side (those stamps on the label are Unity - thanks Julie!)

Let's hope that I find some more treasures tucked away soon. Thanks for popping in.

Fiskars GDT - Natural Smile

2011-07-28T20:16:00.000+01:00

If you have followed my blog at all, you will know that most of my layouts feature my DD. It's just that she is more willing to get in front of the camera normally. This was one of those rare occasions, where my DS didn't mind.

I used my favourite Fiskars border punches on this one - Bracket and Stamp. They are jus so darn versatile!

I kept the embellishments quite simple for a change. Love this stamp below from Studio Calico. Most of the papers are from my Studio Calico kit.

Well thanks for popping in. I played with a Pencil Lines sketch this week. Here is a sneaky peek (yes, it does appear that I am having a little grunge moment). Check back on Sunday for the full details.

Grunge

2011-07-25T20:42:00.001+01:00

We don't seem to get enough grunge stuff especially for boys, in my opinion. My friend Jackie was looking for some grunge inspiration recently and had to go back a long way through my blog to find some! Sorry jackie!

I fancied playing at something different a couple of weeks ago as although I love 'freestyle' I find it a real struggle - go figure!

Instead, I opted for my own take on freestyle. Adding my favourite ecclectic items onto a page even if they aren't relevant.

I really enjoyed the process, but it did take a while. I think I need more practise.

I attempted to layer different textures, inks and paints to build up some depth to the page and pieces. You can see that my favourite stamps and icons made it onto the page.

As my DS leaves junior school this year and goes onto secondary, I am trying to remind myself to let go. He is safe. He can stand on his own two feet. Yikes. Did anyone say that motherhood is hard?

Thanks for dropping in. Just for Jackie - I'm adding a Grunge tag!

MME Sketch

2011-07-23T15:40:00.000+01:00

I thought I'd participate in a sketch this week to get my mojo going. I played with My Mind's Eye Challenge 25 Sketch:

My take uses a single sheet of paper (wow - a first for me!) from the fabulous Lost and Found range.

As the background is so fabulous, it was hard not to leave it exactly as it is and stick it in the album.

I framed 3 photos from our trip to Edinburgh by stamping in grey ink. I created a small collection of die-cuts from the range just above.

A few random objects in this corner including my favourite envelope.

The paper is so gorgeous, that it had to have its own photo!

Thanks for popping in.

Finally Finished

2011-07-19T14:14:00.001+01:00

I started this layout about 2 months ago when I received the lovely Pink Paislee papers. The layout came together really quickly, but for the life of me, I just couldn't find the right title. So it sat on a pile in my craft room waiting to be finished. I have been working on finishing up the little pile of layouts waiting for something (often who knows what).

One down..... 8 more to go....

So 4 letters was all it took! What a dufus.

I handmade the teal flower (you'll have to get Craft Stamper Magazine if you want to see how). I combined it with other bits and pieces which have been tucked in here and there.

I used the fact that DD was holding something up in the air to attach the balloons.

Gorgeous Pink Paislee stamps all over!

Thanks for popping in.

Fiskarettes

2011-07-15T17:29:00.000+01:00

I'm having a blast as a guest designer over on the Fiskerettes web site. I thought I'd share a sneak of this week's entry which features the Shape Template.

It's a simple device to use. A blade sits in the shape cutter gadget. You then move the gadget around the template and voila! Out pops a tree or a squirrel or lots of different shapes. Hop on over to Fiskarettes to see the whole thing.

This is the layout from last week's post. I think the papers are a mixture of Crate Paper and MME. I just love this structure at the mo - it's so easy to hang pretty little things from that border.

As you can also see from this one - I have a thing about mini-envelopes too at the moment.

Hope you can pop back soon. I have a ton of layouts to catch up on which I will post over the next few days.

End of Term Madness

2011-07-12T19:14:00.000+01:00

Sorry for the gap in my posts. End of term (and end of school for my DS) so there are countless performances, contest and competitions to ferry the kids to. Been having a ball, but I feel like a shattered taxi driver! Never mind, only a week and a bit to go.

Thought I'd share this layout I did ages ago but never got around to finishing. Been scrapping this past few weeks in between my taxi duties.

We met Alice and the White Rabbit for the first time this year. He is one of my most favourite characters and it was a big thrill for me to see him.

I did loads of random bits and pieces although I did use my favourite elements.

Love these gorgeous stamps that I borrowed from Julie. I so need these.

The layout is based on a sketch from Got Sketch? I would not normally use a circle photo but hey - thought it was a great idea for this one.

Thanks for popping in.

Fiskarettes

2011-07-01T13:00:00.006+01:00

Well my exciting news is that I am a guest designer at Fiskarettes this month - Fiskars' inspiration blog for the UK. I love Fiskas products and didn't realise just how many Fiskars tools I already own. I received a fabulous parcel this week including some Fiskars Shape Templates. I look foward to playing with those as I've never tried them out before - so watch this space!

So here is a sneaky peak of my first project.

Be sure to head on over to the blog to see the rest of the layout and enjoy all the lovely inspiration over there.

Cards

2011-06-30T21:50:00.000+01:00

Ooh - look at this - more than one post in a week! I thought I'd share some cards I've done recently. I'm no cardmaker, but even I have to make cards for birthdays.

This one was for my friend Amber who is quite girly. The image is of course Lili of the Valley.

Also LOTV but this time a card for Nicki. Nicki is not a pink girl so I chose clours a little more muted.

Well, just a quick post. Come back tomorrow as I have some exciting news to share.

Thanks for popping in.

QKD: Triple Tiarra Tuesday

2011-06-28T22:18:00.000+01:00

Golly, it's that time again already! The months are flying by. This week's challege is a little whimsical. Here is the inspiration.

I'm working with Steampunk Kitty this month so I used the colour scheme as my inspiration.

If you would like to join in with this week's Triple Tiara Tuesday, jump over to the QKD blog for all the details. The best news is that QKD 2will offer up a $25 stamp gift certificate for the players to compete for each month. So if you enter each week, you will have 4 chances to win the monthly prize of $25.

Good luck!

Pencil Lines

2011-06-23T18:17:00.000+01:00

It's been a while since I've done a project for Pencil Lines. This month the DT are sponsored by Little Musings. Sarah Jane designs fabulous digi stamps which can be used as they are or resized, coloured, ooh the possibilities!

For my layout, I used sketch 241. I picked Sew Vintage stamps to work with.

I used some bits and pieces from previous Studio Calico kits. I especially love the crate paper pretty papers - I seem to make them stretch a loonnng way!

I printed out my digi stamps onto plain card and used them as is. As there are plain versions included, you can colour them with markers or pencils to match your layout.

Particularly like my title letters. They are American Crafts and I've overstamped them with a lovely map.
Thanks for popping in. Don't forget to check out Pencil Lines for all the lovely inspiration and Little Musings for great stamps.

Charity Crop for Cancer Research UK

2011-06-21T20:54:00.005+01:00

For those of you in the UK, I am sure you're aware of Cancer Research and the contribution they make to so many people here in the UK. We are holding a fabulous event raising funds for Cancer Research. You'll be able to have a great day out crafting, chatting and shopping whilst raising money!

The crop is being held in super community hall just 10 minutes from Junc. 4 of M42. You'll receive a wonderful craft kit includig papers, embellishments and other trinkets. Nicki and I will be holding teaching a class each using the kit. More detailed info to follow.

We'll be inviting one or two shops (well no day is complete without a little retail therapy). There will also be plenty of time for a buffet lunch, refreshments, games and lots of chatter.

All this is just £40 with every single penny going to Cancer Research. There are plenty of places to stay near by or we can help with travel from train stations, etc.

We would love to see as many of our friends as possible (especially those we only know from on-line).
You can find out more information at What Housework including directions and booking form.

EDIT:
We are having a few technical issues with the web site at the moment. So you would like to no more please email me instead: cropatatgmail.com - just replace the at with the @ sign.

So how about joining us and raise some money?

Quick Catch Up

2011-06-19T20:45:00.000+01:00

Rather late with everything as I've been working on my final project for my photography course. I also went camping with the kids this weekend at the Scouts Family Camp. Had a great time - a bit of rain but loads of good fun and friends. Feel rather exhausted now though.

Thought I would share a layout I did a while ago. I have some more recent that require some editing so hopefully I'll be back to normal next week.

I may have mentioned this before, but my DD is very much high and low. One minute she is chirpy, exstatic and happy, next she can be a real challenge! Thankfully more ups than downs. But she remined me of April shows, bright one minute, showers the next.

This was one of those layouts that you get clear in your head. It took a while to get the right photos though as generally, when she has a strop, I don't think to get the camera out.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend. I'll have to rescue my father's day cards for a photo later this week:)

Happy Birthday Vicki!

2011-06-09T15:08:00.000+01:00

Vicki of Queen Kat Designs celebrates her birthday today. So we are celebrating with a huge QKD blog hop!

My card features the beautiful Fire Fae by Myka. She is very sassy as I'm guessing just like Vicki! I have used an embossing folder as the background. The addition of a few pretty charms and glass bead finish off the card to perfection.

So hop on over to Linda Harris to carry on the celebrations.

Thanks for popping in.

Lots of Classes

2011-06-06T21:56:00.000+01:00

Sorry to have been MIA for so long. We're still looking for a house but not having much luck as nothing has come on the market. Fingers crossed on a house with a big garden and a LOT of rennovation though.

Anyway, I thought I'd share some classes that I did over the weekend. Well I taught one and two of my layouts were taught over at Skrapz.

First, I was a Bubbly Funk in Worcester on Saturday. I have to say - what a lovely day out if you are able to travel to Worcester. Firstly, the shop is fabulous and has a great atmosphere for crafting and secondly, Worcester is gorgeous packed full of interesting shops.

We created a lovely mini-book using beautiful Prima papers and embellishments.

The book encloses on itself making it an ideal brag book.

Which then opens out to reveal the photos and journalling. Hello to all the lovely ladies who came along - so great to meet you!

Over in Shropshire, Skrapz held their crop and workshop teaching a couple of layouts that I did for them.

Both layouts featured masking in some way. This one used Glimmer Mist over a Prima mask. Again Prima papers and some stamping.

A couple of close-up views - just lovin' postage stamps and clocks still.

The last layout also has masking, but this time using Distress Ink.

We shared many of the embellishments and papers between the two classes.

The same square Prima mask was used on the circular background, but as you can see above, worked quite nicely.

A few more clocks, flowers and envelopes for good measure.

Well thanks for popping in and being patient with me.

2011-05-24T20:48:00.000+01:00

Welcome to Triple Tiarra Tuesday challenge. This week's challenge was inspired by a technique called Black Magic courtesy of Splitcoast Stampers.

I took a few liberties with the technique since my white ink pad doesn't really work too well. So instead, I embossed my gorgeous QKD grunge stamps and inked with Cosmic Shimmers. Take a look:

If you would like to join in with this week's Triple Tiara Tuesday, jump over to the QKD blog for all the details and visit Jeanie and Holley for more inspiration. (Leave us some love and a link to your project so we can return the favor. *wink*)

The best news is that QKD will offer up a $25 stamp gift certificate for the players to compete for each month. So if you enter each week, you will have 4 chances to win the monthly prize of $25.

Good luck!

June Classes

2011-05-11T19:35:00.001+01:00

I've been a busy bunny this month making up some classes. Firstly, I'll share the classes I've done for Skrapz. Caroline and Ann will be teaching this class at their crop on 4th June. I just love the papers that I worked with - gorgeous Prima Madeline. This first class has a little bit of cutting out and some masking - just love how it turned out.

I think my second class is my favourite - mainly for this little collection of pieces. More masking but this time with Glimmer Mist. If you would like to know more about the class pop along to the Skrapz web site.

I'll be teaching a class, also on 4th June at the absolutely gorgeous Bubblyfunk shop in Worcester. If you have not been to the shop yet - you don't know what you're missing. The shop is so pretty.

I have created a pretty mini-book also with Prima papers. This adorable book opens out to reveal photos and journalling.

We'll be creating the book from scratch and there will some stamping, sewing, inking and anything else I can cram into the time. But don't worry - it will be suitable for everyone.

The class starts and 10.30 until 3pm with an hour for lunch (or more playing). I can't wait! If you want to book your place or find out more - be sure to visit the Bubblyfunk web site.

Thanks for popping in. I'm sure I'll find some more lovely things to share soon.

Enjoy the Journey

2011-05-04T21:40:00.000+01:00

For those of you who have been to Disney before, you'll probably know the feeling of rushing from one ride to the next and standing in line. I wish I had a penny for every queue I stood in waiting to meet a Princess or go on a ride.

Sometimes we just need to take our time along the way and appreciate our surroundings. We took a visit to Busch Gardens for the first time. It wasn't quite as busy as Disney so we were able to look around and enjoy the different areas.

We spent loads of time around the White Tiger enclosure. They really are fabulous animals.

i borrowed Julie's fabulous travel stamps (Unity) for this tag. Love the airmail baker's twine.

BTW, if you haven't done so already, make sure you sign up for Pencil Lines newsletter. I am on the newsletter DT along with the fabulous Larissa, Sue Mylde and Karen Shady - ooh what fab company!

I got to work with a lovely kit from Scrap Rat which included lovely Echo Park and Crate Paper goodies.

Here is a sneaky peak:

Well thanks for popping in. Catch up with you soon.

Crafting Heaven

2011-04-30T18:10:00.000+01:00

I totally forgot to share photos of my new crafting space. I moved out of my old craft room at the start of our Easter holidays. It took loads and loads of trips moving papers, tools and God-knows-what across to our summer house. I'm now complete with lovely new shelves and it's just fabulous.

The summer house is at the bottom of the garden - we used it as an office when we both worked from home.

It's is so nice to work up here on a sunny day - the light is brilliant. I haven't been up here when it's pouring with rain yet - that might be a different story.

I have finally got the scrap space I've always dreamed of. BUT, we have decided to move now as we have seen our perfect house. I just hope that there is someone scrappy who would love a sparkly scrap room.

Have a good weekend.

I Love Spring

2011-04-25T20:44:00.000+01:00

It's my favourite time of year. We've been so lucky with our weather here - it's been absolutely gorgeous. It was overcast for Easter Sunday but we headed out on an Easter egg hunt and the light was fantastic. I got a ton of great photos in the bluebells and in the woods. Woo hoo! Love new photos to scrap.

These were of my favourites straight out of the camera:

Can't wait to scrap them. Been scrapping like mad these past few weeks and I'm hoping that my mojo carries on a little longer.

DD had several 'parties' for her birthday this year. This was one after school at home.

Had a go at making my own flowers - Prima stylee. They're pretty easy to make as long as you have the right material (mine was chiffon).

Well thanks for popping in. Back to normal this week until the Royal Wedding on Friday.

Solihull Crop

2011-04-20T21:18:00.001+01:00

Gosh, the weather here is amazing at the moment. Spring truly sprang early this year. We've been treated to beautiful bluebells almost a month early.

Hopefully the weather continues into the Easter weekend and stays fine until the royal wedding. Woo Hoo!

Onto my layout for our craft club. I've used the lovely Stella & Rose papers from My Mind's Eye. They are just gorgeous.

Hopefully the girls will enjoy this class - not too fiddly.

I'll be showing the girls how to 'rust' the bird cage using acrylic paints - bit less time consuming than distress powders.

Enjoy your Easter weekend. Thanks for stopping by.

Triple Tiarra Tuesday

2011-04-19T19:39:00.000+01:00

Welcome to Triple Tiarra Tuesday challenge. Here's this week's inspiration:

I created my card using the Cheshire Cat. I did colour him in using 'squash' as my inspiration, but I was pushed for squash coloured card, so I've pushed the boundry and used something more pumpkin colour.

Craft Stamper Ezine

2011-04-14T15:02:00.000+01:00

Now you know how much we all love Craft Stamper Magazine in the UK. I think most of agree that it is the best craft publication here. I'm not sure how available it is elsewhere but here is some great news. They have published a mini-ezine which will be great for anyone, anywhere. Obviously not as big as the real thing, but there are some great projects in it from past magazines. To find out more and how - visit Craft Stamper's Blog for more info.

Quick share on another layout I did last month featuring my lovely Martha Stewart punches that I bought while on holiday. Lauren and her friend had a sleepover for Lauren's birthday - a whole lot calmer than when Jacob had his sleepover!

Love those long titles - this one is KI Memories.

For no particular reason at all, I fancied hanging clothes on a line (stamped images from Hero Arts, papers Echo Park).

One last thing to share (nothing like packing it all in one post), is that I'll be teaching a class at Bubblyfunk in Worcester, on Saturday, 4th June. We'll be making a fab mini-album with a difference using sumptious papers and embellies. If you've not visited before - be sure to pop in. The shop is the prettiest craft shop I have ever been too. I can't wait to teach there.

Well that's it. Thanks for popping in.

Catch Up

2011-04-13T19:38:00.000+01:00

I have started my Spring Clean this week and have decided to move my craft room out into our summer house. It was converted into an office a long time ago, but we stopped using it when I left work. So I have emptied my rather small craft room but I'm truly SHOCKED as to how much stuff I have. Who knew you could get so much stuff into a small room? I'm waiting on some new shelving to store it all away and I'll take some photos so you can see my new space.

I did discover many projects which haven't made it onto my blog and many which need finishing! So here is one I did last month from our Disney travels.

Stitch is definitely our favourite Disney Character (well mine at least). We met him and Lilo at Animal Kingdom.

I am having a little travel stamp obsession of late and these are a selection from Martha Stewart and Studio Calico.

The travel labels are downloaded from the Internet. I started browsing for some when I made this layout and 2 hours later I was still playing! There are loads of lovely vintage travel themed items out there.

I'm off to go pack away my stuff....
Thanks for popping in.

Finding Inspiration

2011-04-04T18:06:00.000+01:00

Sketch 232:

Some times it's hard to find some fresh inspiration when you have scrapper's block. My problem has been lack of time for the most part. I need to scrap often to get into the flow of things. Once source of inspiration for me this week was listening to my favourite song from our holiday recently.

Check out this fabulous song....

So I didn't have rockets, but I did think about flying...

I made my own sun-ray mask by cutting out some 12x12 cardstock. I wish I had positioned it differently though now. Ho hum. I have used Distress inks to colour the rays (Victorian Velvet & Dried Marigold).

Some felt flowers that I've been hoarding forever! Added some homespun stitching.

Love the balloon stamp from Studio Calico. I've stamped, cut out and coloured with Copic Markers.

My usual title issues meant that I came up with a random title.

Thanks for popping in. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

Hugs Bunny

2011-04-02T09:58:00.000+01:00

I don't know about you, but I can never come up with good titles for layouts. They generally end up being one random word. I did this layout based on a Got Sketches? sketch for our birthday crop. The photos are from Disney (again). DD met Thumper and Miss bunny.

I was truly stuck for a title when I came up with this one. Not bad for me!

Papers are from Studio Calico kit.

I have loads of layouts to post so hopefully get a few more posts up this week - I've been a bit slow.

Thanks for popping in.

Gardening Friends

2011-03-19T09:37:00.000+01:00

I write from a very sunny, Spring-like England! Spring is my favourite time of year - the daffodils bring in such an injection of much-needed colour.

For my project this week, I thought I'd make a card that would double-up as a gift. I love collecting seeds at the end of the season and this would be a great way to give to a friend.

I created a card base that includes a small simple pocket. Just fold one-side over the other and fold up a flap at the bottom to create the pocket. As you can see, my pocket has been line with ric-rac (if only it were lined with money!)

Into this pocket I've created a vintage 'seed-packet'. There are plenty of free images to be found on the web. Be warned - once you've found some you'll be addicted to downloading them all! Just print your packet onto good-quality paper and turn it into an envelope.

Of course, by card features the cute lil' Josie the Ladybug Fairy. She has been coloured with Copic markers before being cut out and mounted onto foam tape.

Well enjoy the rest of your weekend. Thanks for popping in.

Triple Tiarra Tuesday

2011-03-15T08:00:00.014+01:00

Queen Kat Stamps host a challenge each week and this week is my turn. Our challenge is to create a card using the following image as inspiration:

WOW! Those really are killer heels! If you look closely, there is just so much detail and bling that it makes your eyes water!

Here's my take. I've used the fabulous Sadi image by Myka.

I wanted to use her punk, edgy style to create a card full of texture and definitely not too girly. My bling elements have included glitter card, pearlescent card as well as silver sequin waste and card candy.

Super Year

2011-03-11T21:00:00.002+01:00

Yes I know - two posts in two days - what's going on?! Just trying to make up for lost time.

Between you and me, I've been suffering from scrapper's block of late. Just can't seem to start or finish anything. I thought a nice holiday and some new scrappy stuff might be the cure, but alas, that didn't seem to work. This layout is one I have made recently and probably one of the few that bucks my current trend.

DS leaves school this year so I am taking the opportunity to create a year book for the school. Quite a tall order since there are 90 kids in his yar. I took all the portraits last week including buddy portraits. Love this photo of DS and his best friends.

They are having such a great year at school although they're working them really hard in preparation for senior school. We're so proud of what DS has achieved (obviously follows after me ha! ha!)

Took the opportunity to use some of the stamps and goodies I picked up on holiday as well as some Studio Calico goodies.

Now if only I can make some more layouts...

Thanks for popping in.

Bad Blogger

2011-03-10T16:35:00.000+01:00

I know it has been absolutely ages since I posted. My excuses are endless, but my main one being we were on holiday for a couple of weeks and then the catch-up after the holiday. I need another holiday to get over the holiday! Needless to say we had a fabulous time in Florida but that's another story.

I'll share a quick layout I did when I got back using my new Cricut cart - Cindy Lou. I just couldn't resist the squirrel and deer especially as I picked it up on sale while on holiday.

One of the highlights of our holiday for Lauren and I was interacting with the animals. We fed dolphins and touched manta rays at Seaworld. Lauren also fed kangaroos and parrots at Busch Gardens. She is so animal mad.

I paper pieced the deer using the Cricut cart. Just so adorable.

Paper: Making Memories
Stickers: Glitz Designs, American Crafts, Making Memories
Stamps: Studio Calico

Thanks for popping in. I promise to be back with more shortly.

Simple Designs

2011-02-26T18:00:00.000+01:00

Sometimes simple designs can be just what you need when you need to make a card in a hurry. Having a go-to design is a great way to rustle up a beautiful card in no time at all.

For this design, I added a faux photo corner which has been peeled back to allow some flowers to nestle in the aperture created. Making the photo corner couldn't be easier.

Simply cut out a right-angled triangle (the sides of mine were 3" long). Turn so that the point is at the top with the long side at the bottom (my geometry is rather rusty). Find the centre and make a small cut towards the point about 1" long. Curl these edges back to create an aperture. They're a great place for grouping flowers together on a card.

Piper is coloured with Copic Markers

Skin: R00, R11, R20

Hair: Y21, E31

Dress: R81, R83, R85, C1, C3, C5

Wings: B00, B10, B11

Boots, C5, C7

Thanks for stopping by.

Pencil Lines Sketch 226

2011-02-20T20:00:00.016+01:00

Just a quick post from me (I know I've been MIA).

I did a digi layout for this week's sketch. My DD has been celebrating her 7th birthday for what seems like weeks. She is at an age where a birthday is such an exciting prospect (do you remember those days?) She had her list ready. She knew exactly what she wanted. We had a sleepover party, a trip to the cinema and a birthday party. It was exhausting. Thankfully it is only once a year!

Thanks for popping in. I'm off for a lie down :)

2011-02-10T16:00:00.000+01:00

As time is not my own at the moment I've had to opt for simple cards. I love this image - Piper - this uber-cool gal is just so funky. I love her stripey socks and those boots!

To make the background mat I used the packaging from some Jenni Bowlin buttons. It's very sturdy cardboard and it's such a great shape.

Piper is coloured in with Copic Markers, papers are My Mind's Eye.

Skin: R00, R11, R20
Hair: C5, C7
Clothes: RV93, RV95, RV000, B91, B93, B95

Thanks for popping in. Don't forget to check out the Royal Blog for the latest challenge and releases.

Triple Tiara Tuesday

2011-02-08T22:17:00.001+01:00

Triple Tiara Tuesday is a weekly challenge over at Queen Kat Designs. A challenge is set on the blog and 3 members participate. You start right at the QKD blog and visit the 3 challenge hosts on their personal blogs. (Leave us some love and a link to your project so we can return the favor. *wink*)

The best news is that QKD will offer up a $25 stamp gift certificate for the players to compete for each month. So if you enter each week, you will have 4 chances to win the monthly prize of $25.

Here is this week's card challenge:

For my take on the challenge I've used Pisces but this time I cut her out. I've used an Embossing folder to create sun rays. Sweet.

Why not pop along to Jules and Jeanie's blogs to have a peek at their fabulous cards.

If you would like to take part you will need to link your card using the widget on QKD blog. Good Luck!

Ups and Downs

2011-02-05T22:16:00.002+01:00

Funny how you go at full pelt one minute and then completely loose it the next. Well not completely. And I don't mean my mental health either. I was scrapping like I was on a mission, I got loads of layouts done over a 4 week period then nothing. Nada. I have about 3 layouts sitting there waiting for something. Just not sure what yet.

So I thought I'd share I card I made for Queen Kat Stamps which I received my very first stamps this week. My first one is called Pisces - she is adorable. I am also a Pisces but I don't share the same legs obviously!

I haven't done any colouring for a while, so I've stuck to the colours I know. I've also tried out my new lens so I'll need to get to grips with that.

If you want to see the colours I used, details are on the Dark Ink Sorority Blog. I'm going to be back to tomrrow with my contribution for Pencil Lines.

Thanks for popping in.

Cave Man Ways

2011-01-29T19:49:00.000+01:00

I'm a little late with a post this week - seems there are never enough hours in a day. I thought I'd share a layout I did from our last Disney trip. I've been trying to scrap some photos which I find terribly hard to scrap.

This rather cave-man boy is my DS. I think the big turkey leg looks more like a club the cave man swung around. He obligingly acted out a cave man for me. Or at least I think it was acting.

Lovely papers are from My Mind's Eye and I've used a sketch from Page Maps.

Quite liked the curled paper which gave the border a little definition.

Also, while I think about it, Queen Kat Designs are looking for 2 more DT members to join the team. Take a look at the post on the blog for more info. Good luck!

Thanks for popping in. I'll try and catch up with a few more posts this week.

Have Stash Will Travel...

2011-01-21T19:36:00.000+01:00

I realised that I seem to be having a bit of a boy-fest on my blog recently. However, rather than going pink, I thought I'd share a layout I did recently of our trip to Epcot.

I have been trying to scrap our Disney photos from last year - especially as we're about to go again this year. I haven't scrapped all that many. Better pull my finger out!

I've used the lovely kit from December Studio Calico.

Just love the travel stamps from SC - they do travel so well.

My favourite item though is the long title (KI Memories). It was a real pain to stick own straight but boy it is gorgeous. I have cut my cardstock behing my title (not the easiest thing to do).

Thanks for dropping in. I'm back with a layout for Pencil Lines this weekend.

My Mind's Eye Challenge

2011-01-19T17:26:00.001+01:00

I thought I'd enter MME sketch challenge this week as I needed a challenge.

I used some Dreamy papers which I absolutely adore although I guess they've been out a few years. You just don't get enough cool boy papers. I added some stripe paper from I Believe which is actually sparkly.

I pretty much kept with the sketch cutting out the stars and layering them up.

I used my favourite brick wall mask to decorate the background paper. Not quite got around to adding my journalling yet but the deadline is today.

By the way - did you see all the fabulous papers that they are releasing? Be still my beating heart. You can see them here.

Thanks for popping in.

Pencil Lines Sketch 221

2011-01-16T20:00:00.003+01:00

Now it isn't even my week for Pencil Lines, but as I was on a roll with my scrapping, I thought I'd do an extra layout with this week's sketch. Hop on over to Pencil Lines if you would like to see the original sketch (it's so pretty).

For my layout, I swapped those pretty butterflies for stars. I punched out stars from a card to make a stencil so I could ink them here and there.

Those lush papers and title are Autumn Leaves.

Thanks for poppin in.

Scrapfest!

2011-01-14T19:20:00.001+01:00

I'm on a bit of a scrapfest at the moment - I have done almost 10 layouts this month already (quite a record for me). So nice when you're on a roll.

I technically did this one last month but who's counting? I love the Wintertime collection from Echo Park. Absolutely perfect for the big dollop of snow last month.

I included my favourite elements (just love pocket watches) as well as stickers from the paper pack.

Cute sledge huh?

I particularly like the mitten stickers. Those October Afternoon letters are just lush.

Have loads more to catch up with so check back soon.

Thanks for popping in.

Pencil Lines Sketch 220

2011-01-09T21:30:00.005+01:00

Just a quick post with my layout for Pencil Lines. I had to do a simple LO this week as I was a little strapped for time.

I changed my layout slightly from the original sketch by spacing out my squares a little. A bit of a challenge for me as I find it difficult to get things straight.

All stickers and papers are from Echo Park (sigh). Just love their gear.

Thanks for popping in. I have lots more projects that I unearthed while reorganising my directories. It's amazing what you can find when you tidy up!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend.

Queen Kat Designs

2011-01-08T21:06:00.002+01:00

So I was browsing through Scrapbook Calls and Contests the other day, when a call came up for Queen Kat Designs. Now, not one to go past a stamp store without looking (well it doesn't hurt to look does it?) Wow, was all I could say. They have the most b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l stamps hiding in there. If someone is looking to buy me a present, don't hesitate to go and look here for some grunge or here for some fab fantasy stamps.

I don't know about you, but I do find male cards a bit of a challenge, especially if the recipient doesn't have any particular hobbies. For this card, I wanted to make it grown up and have included a favourite stamp of mine from Paperartsy - Clocks Plate 5. You can create this card for any occasion and the faux 'rusty' texture makes it very tactile.

Faux Rust Technique

The gears and chipboard gears are embossed with Distress Powder to give a lovely rusty texture. Firstly, stamp using Black Soot Distress Ink. Cover with Vintage Photo Embossing powder and heat set. You may need to heat it for a very long time but you should get a lovely dark rust texture. You can scratch at the rust when cold to reveal the darker crystals.

To Create the Card:

Stamp and emboss the gears on the left hand side of the cardbase as described above. Ensure that some of the stamp hangs off the page.
Stamp and emboss more gears across the base in a loose diagonal. Be sure to turn the stamp to avoid repetition.
Using some sequin waste as a mask, apply Broken China Distress Ink in a circular motion using cut and dry foam. Tip: use a light touch to avoid lines and streaks.
Mask around the stamping leaving plenty of space.
Using cut and dry foam, apply more Distress Inks to fill in the gaps created above. Tip: start on a craft mat and move sponge in a light circular motion. Practise on scrap paper first.
Apply 2-3 colours in this manner until you get the blend you're looking for. I used Faded Jeans, Marmalade and Shabby Shutters.
Using a collage stamp, stamp a square panel of card (2 1/2" square). Colour with inks as before.
Mount collage square onto card stock mat and adhere to card base as shown.
Stamp script text lightly onto small shipping tag. Colour with Distress Inks.
Crumple tag and colour again to highlight creases.
Emboss chipboard gear (Maya Road) using faux-rust technique above.
Attach gear to tag using twine.
Emboss message using a Dymo (you can use cardstock with a white core. Cut 9mm strip and sand after embossing).
Assemble as shown.

I hope that I've inspired you to create a card for the man in your life!

For a change of style, I couldn't resist this Tilda card I made for my friend Nicki. She loves everything pirate - it's so easy to see why.

Tilda is perching on a treasure map (distressed with inks). This is laid over an old map page. I added some tiny shells, beads to the corner before adding copious amounts of glitter. A tiny string of pearls finishes off my treasure.

Tilda is coloured with Copic Markers.

Hat & Boots: C-3, C-5, C-7

Skin: R00, R11, R20

Top: R81, R83, R84, YG11, YG03, YG67

Jeans: B91, B93, B95, B97

My last card accompanies a project that is is this month's Craft Stamper Magazine. I created a travel wallet to store all those lovely tickets and ephemera as well as a notepad for those reminders or your journey.

I love old books and maps and they look wonderful on vintage cards. This card features stamps from 7 Gypsies (travel), Tim Holtz (Car, tickets and Message).

Thanks for popping in.

Morag x

TGIF

2011-01-08T13:03:00.001+01:00

The kids went back to school this week thank goodness. I love them to pieces and all, but I think we were all a little stir crazy after two and half weeks at close quarters. I spent the last three days cleaning and tidying. Finally today, I could say it was all clean. Now to mess it up at the weekend!

Just a quick post with a layout I did at the weekend. The photo is from Warwick Castle - we visited it last summer. DD was looking like the castle princess with her crown. The papers are all Webster's Pages - Hollywood Vogue.

The frame is cut out of Feather Fashion and layered with the flowers from around the edges of the paper. I added a couple of my favourite chanelier stamps (Inkadinkadoo).

I laid Tulle across under the frame and used a diamante ribbon slide to gather it together. The stamp is my favourite one from 7 Gypsies.

I love the drama of these papers and especially the peacock.

Thanks for popping in.

Photo Holder with a Difference

2011-01-03T20:12:00.001+01:00

Happy New Year to you all! I hope you've made some new resolutions that you've managed to keep for more than a day! I am going to try and be more organised and keep my scrap room tidy. Unfortunately, I will need to get it tidy in the first place. This may take some time...

By way of distraction, I wanted to create a photo holder, but do something different. I have had these beautiful Seaside Retreat papers from Websters Pages for a while, but as usual, they were too nice to cut up. I took the plunge with some layouts and had some left over for this project.

I covered a chipboard box with Reader's Paradise and Underwater Oasis. The photo is held in place by two large shells, this means I'll be able to change the photo for another holiday (or if I get bored of looking at the kids!) (Only Joking).

I then layered elements from Reader's Paradise and various other papers including the reverse of Far and Away. Layering some elements with foam tape helps add dimension not to mention being able to tuck in other ephemera here and there.

I curled some pearls around the bottom as well as adding seashells, glitter and rhinestones.

I also added stamped images from various sets for even more detail.

The top is decorated with seashells and tiny bottle (including a message), more glitter and rhinestones.

The lighthouse was made from a template downloaded from the internet - not as hard as it looks! The template can be found here. Incidentally, if you fancy building your own Chicago, apparantly you can from this site!

Thanks for popping in!

Mini Memories

2010-12-31T13:06:00.000+01:00

I was stuck for something to do the other day so I thought I'd tackle this mini-suitcase which I've had for ages. My thoughts turned to making a tiny album for our holiday to Menorca earlier this year.

The suitcase was started at a class at the Artisan show in September. I finished it off by covering the inside with vintage maps and dictionary pages.

The mini accoridan album is made from Webster's Pages Seaside Retreat which has a lovely map printed on it.

I added some stamped images like splodges and seashells, etc. before layering up a tag and star fish.

As the papers are all double-sided, making a mini-album like this is a piece of cake.

Looping baker's twine across the pages help to lead the eye through the album in a very simple way.

The outside of the case is painted with brown paint and highlighted with Inka-Gold (absolutely lovely to work with).
Hope you all bring in the New Year with someone you love. See you in 2011!

Snow Wonder

2010-12-27T18:22:00.000+01:00

We've just enjoyed our first white Christmas (or at least as far as I can remember). I hope that you have had a peaceful one too.

I thought I'd share a layout I did for Allyscraps using Debbie Gaydos' sketch this month. Sketches are such a blessing when you a scrapper's block (or otherwise). You can see the Sketch Challenge here.

I have used the fabulous papers from Echo Park Wintertime Collection - I love the colour range and the red accent colour.

I'm finishing up some projects so I'll share those asap.

Christmas Eve

2010-12-24T08:00:00.003+01:00

I guess it will be hard to sleep tonight - we'll be listening for sleigh bells.

I have mentioned it before, but we didn't have too many family traditions, so I have instigated new traditions of our own. A new 'tradition' for this year will be table gifts. Just something very small to open at the lunch table - kind of stretch things out a bit and mostly because crackers are just so disappointing.

My gifts have been wrapped in kraft paper and decorated with a simple ribbon, tag and candy cane. My favourite part are the jingle bells though. (Sorry that my photos are pretty poor).

Did you notice the nutcracker soldier? DD begged me for one on our visit to the German Market recently. He is adorable. I think that we'll be collecting those in future.

Thank you so much for spending time on my blog - I appreciate it. I hope that you have a wonderful Christmas.

Only 3 more days

2010-12-22T20:20:00.001+01:00

I am a totally a last-minute shopper normally, I have good intentions, but can rarely decide on the perfect gift for someone. I always feel that it has to be just 'right'. This year however is different. I have not only finished all my shopping, but it's all wrapped up too! Woo Hoo! What a great feeling.

My class at our crop next month features the lovely papers from Echo Park who have just got to be some of the hottest property around.

As there are normally 20+ people taking the class, we have to keep things fairly straight forward. These papers were just great as we could use all those lovely little elements and cards, making it easy for everyone to follow.

Just love a little baker's twine.

A little space for journalling - more can be tucked behind.

I love some hand sewing on a LO when there's time - just adds a fab handmade touch.

Thanks for popping in.

Pencil Lines Sketch 218

2010-12-19T20:00:00.001+01:00

Only 6 more days to go. Woo Hoo!

We had 7" of snow yesterday - I don't think I've ever seen so much snow here in one go. It's truly beautiful. I'm sure I'm not alone in hoping that it stays until Christmas - it would be truly perfect.

This week's sketch featured a portrait and a landscape photo - something of a challenge normally (well in my book anyway).

I picked out some photos from Halloween. A little party at our house with our best friends. One game that I organised was digging for bones in slime (sweets in jelly).

There was the inevitable oohs and ahhs before my GS stuck his head in the bowl. Just love this picture of his gooey face.

I really fancied some barbed-wire on my page, so made some by hand with garden wire.

Just love the brick work mask and my favourite pocket watch at the moment.

I dug out some more of the Halloween in Wonderland (Graphic 45)

My chipboard letters were inked before being smothered in Rock Candy Crackle Paint.
Thank you so much for popping in. I appreciate your time and all the support and comments I've received over the year.

Craft Garden Goodies

2010-12-19T19:53:00.000+01:00

I thought I'd share some projects that I have done for The Craft Garden over the past few weeks but just not had time to share.

I did another mini-album in a concertina format which can either be popped into a box or stand-up on display. The beautiful Fairy Flora are a wonderful mix of sumptious colours with matching flowers and journal cards.

I thought I might try lots of whimsical stamping and stickles to really make the most of the papers.

I just love how this page turned out. The very large dragonfly (Tattered Angels) has been highlighted with stickles

I'm afraid the lighting was poor so you can't really see how I highlighted the flowers on this page with more stickles - looks so pretty IRL.

This album is super-easy as I've used the journal cards as fancy mats for my photos and just clustered pretty Prima flowers. Voila!
Thanks for stopping by.

The Stockings are Ready

2010-12-17T19:32:00.000+01:00

I've been lucky enough to be a guest designer over at Ally Scraps this month. I just adore all the ranges that have been released by Echo Park (they know how to please a girl).

For my first project with Wintertime, I made this elf's stocking for the tree.

I have to admit that I found it difficult to cut up some papers (as usual).
I ended up drawing a stocking shape so that it could be cut out of one sheet of paper.

The beautiful stickers included in the paper pack means that decorating the stocking is a doddle.

Instructions
1. Create an stocking template and draw around twice (once in reverse)
2. Carefully stick edges together.
3. Make a pleated rosette using 1" of Red Swirls paper. Concertina fold every 1/10".
4. Top off stocking with striped paper, adding tiny bells to the points.
5. Add fluffy marabou and some candy canes.

Supplies
Echo Park Wintertime Collection:
Snow
Red Swirls
Stripes
Element Stickers

I'm back this weekend with Pencil Lines sketch. Be sure to check out the Ally Scraps Blog - they have some amazing guests and projects to oggle.

Thanks for popping in.

Large Cards

2010-12-14T22:59:00.000+01:00

I was asked to make a large good luck card so that everyone can sign the inside. Well, normal sized cards present quite a challenge for me, so an A4 card was mamouth task.

My solution was to put the message as the central part to the card and decorate it with the prettiest things I could find.

Various flowers (mostly from Hobbycraft) and pearl accessories.

As I don't possess many items that go with this colour scheme, I resorted to recolouring flowers with ink. I'm pleased that they came out the way that they did. I think that the really important element to a cluster of flowers are the leaves. These are punched using X-cut punch and emboss (surely my favourite product of the year!) Papers are all Prima.

Only 13 more days until Christmas. We should be getting some snow this weekend. I soooooo want a white Christmas!

Toodle pip.

Spooky Fun

2010-12-07T18:44:00.000+01:00

If you know me, then you'll know I have an aversion to purple. Don't know why, but I do. Yet, this year, I seem to be drawn more and more to purple (although only certain shades). I still detest lilac if you're interested. I mention this purely because I don't possess any purple flowers and so I had to come up with something for this layout.

I ended up with some Cosmic Shimmer Mist in red (that's all I had on me) and some purple ink. I got purple flowers, just not sure if I like them or not.

I do however, like these roses which are all the rage right now. I've tied some black floss in between each one - kind of looks like spider's legs.

The background paper is We R Memory Keepers Heebie Jeebies which is mighty fab.

Thanks for popping in.

Pencil Lines Sketch # 216

2010-12-05T20:00:00.000+01:00

Been another busy weekend. Our school fair was as always manic and exhausting. I'm sure there are loads of you around the country doing your bit for your PTA/School. Hats off to you all! It's always a lot of work on top of an already busy time of year.

On to my LO for this week's sketch.

I kept to the sketch more or less, but just shifted my photos so that they were off-centre.

I've used some stamps as my accents - mostly Paper Artsy (just love cogs).

Some more chipboard cogs, buttons and genuine bingo chips.

Hopefully, I'll have a bit more time to play now that I have done my assignments and school fair. I have move lovely Allyscraps goodies that I'm playing with so I'm sure I'll be back with those soon. Thanks for popping in.

Ho Ho Home!

2010-12-03T20:23:00.010+01:00

My Christmas has come early this year as I received a fabulous kit from AllyScraps. There have been amazing designers on the blog this year so it's a little scary!

Onto my project. I've used Very Merry from October Afternoon to create a mini-album (thankfully, Cathy has restocked this fabulous collection). I know many people are journalling their Christmas and this album would be a great way to do that. More pages can be easily added when needed.

I am going to add photos of our christmas spent at home. I love these Silver Foil Thickers - they are super shiny and perfect for holiday projects.

I used a Maya Road Velvet Blossom as an accent (I have been after these for a long time).
As I would love to keep a note of our wish lists this year, I've created a tag for each of us. I really ought to have a very BIG tag to fit all my 'wishes' on! The simple tag pocket is created by folding paper around the bottom of the page.

I've left spaces for my photos. I have used one of the journalling tags as a photo mat. On the right hand side, you can see a lovely Maya Road Kraft Purse Envelope. This will be great to store those little keepsakes. The cute candy Cane and house are from the element sticker sheet.

The reverse of the envelope features a journal card and one of those cute little gingerbread men from the sticker sheet.

As I'm adding my photos later, I've left plenty of space to add them in. I imagine that I'll be able to print some off over the holiday period and have a happy time pasting them in.

It's a great idea to include some shaped pages in the album - keeps things interesting.

To make the Album:
Cut out 2 chipboard covers 6x6. Cover with Story Hour paper. Layer those fabulous stickers from the element sheet. Don't forget to put those gingerbread people on foam tape!
Page 1: Create a concertina rosette from Fill the Stockings. Add sticker sentiment and ribbon.
Page 3: Cover background page with Bake the Cookies. Trim 3" of Fill the Stockings folding over the bottom of the page. Adhere to reverse to form a pocket. Cover die-cut tags with various papers and stickers. Make an extra long one for Mum's wish list!
Page 5: Decorate a Maya Road Kraft Purse envelope with candy cane and die-cut snowflake.

Decorate remaining pages with various papers and stickers. Leave plenty of space for photos if you are adding them later this month. Punch 2 holes throughout the book and bind with book rings or ribbons.

Thanks for popping in.

And Breathe

2010-11-26T20:47:00.000+01:00

This time of year is always so hectic for everyone that I think we forget to take some time out and just breathe! Luckily for me we had our crop at the weekend and it was Nicki's turn to run the class. This meant that I could just do some scrapping just for me - no one else. How lovely.

I have been practising different things with my camera and took the opportunity to catch these photos of the kids at Coughton Court. They of course obliged by being silly.

It's so nice just to be able to scrap with whatever takes my fancy. Although I do find this freedom somewhat daunting sometimes! Still, I used some of the lovely Studio Calico goodies that came my way (as if by magic).

Been after those Making Memories letters for ages. I wanted a different title, but was only prepared to use 5 letters, hence the strange title - Space (to run) - much better than Freedom - I would have had to use up 2 E's for that one!

Thanks for popping in. I took photos of loads of projects today so hopefully will be able to catch up with them all on my blog asap.