Juliet's Paper Palace

Rediscovering Crafting...

2011-08-02T10:13:00.003+01:00

......and absolutely loving it! Unbelieveably, this entire range of stamps has been reduced to £2 each at my local craft shop (Samuel Taylors in Brighouse) so I had to, didn't I? I think they are really fun images and lend themselves well to either colouring or paper piecing.

Thank you for your welcome back messages the other day and I hope to be back again tomorrow after another 'session'.

Ahem - Surprise!!!

2011-07-31T18:44:00.007+01:00

*Now then, let's see if I can still do this blogging thing.....hmmmm, well here goes..........*

Hello fellow bloggers and crafty friends - did you think I had disappeared off the face of the earth? For those who know me, sorry for being awol, but I am very well and life is very busy with work, singing and generally enjoying myself - I just completely lost my crafting mojo. It is school holidays now and I find I have time to craft again - woohoo!!! I have to say though, that being busy hasn't stopped me from buying stash but I have done nothing but look at it for months.

I made three cards today - please remember that it is April 2010 since I last made one - and here is one of them. If I feel brave enough I may show the others tomorrow.

I must also add that I have been following my favourite blogs which also provided masses of inspiration, so thank you xxx

It's Been A While......

2010-04-07T13:42:00.002+01:00

......not only since I blogged, but since I last made a card. Been busy getting back to full fitness, moving house and generally enjoying life. Everything in the garden is rosy now and I thought it was time I unpacked my crafty stash!
My first port of call was Papertake Weekly who had this gorgeous sketch for this week's challenge.

The beautiful Hanglar image is coloured with Copics (how I missed them!) and papers are from the Cosmo Cricket TSV yonks ago and I still love these.
Although not doing much crafting, that doesn't mean I stopped buying stash - oh no!! My MS leaf punch made it's debut on this card ..... and there's more, hehe.

Thanks for stopping by - it's quite fun this blogging - hope to be around again very soon. xx

Colour Create Challenge - Strawberry, Raspberry, Kiwi, Tangerine & Blackberry!

2009-06-18T08:41:00.002+01:00

Sounds delish doesn't it? Be sure to pop along to Colour Create for some brilliant inspiration from my teamies this week - there are some gorgeous creations and all so different!

I used K&Co Berry Sweet papers, Tilda coloured with Distress Inks for a change, and felt strawberries for my card, choosing strawberry, raspberry and kiwi for my 3 colours.

Crafting time has been severely cut now I've returned to work, but it's great to be back in the real world and I'm loving it!

Have a great day and thanks for visiting xxx

Dotties World Challenge - Father's Day!

2009-06-14T08:41:00.004+01:00

Louise set the challenge today at Dottie's World and here is her brief:

"Can you believe it's nearly Father's day already? It'll be Christmas before we know it!((Sorry!))
So, in time for Father's day and to make sure no Daddies out there get left out we want you to make a Father's day card using one of the Charmed downloads."

What's that about Christmas Lou!?!?!?

Anyway, I decided to use the handsome Mikey for my card, coloured with Copics of course, and Scenic Route papers. The CD theme is carried through with the CD I used behind the image which, IRL gives a really lovely effect. The metal buttons are Life's Journey by K&Co, the chipboard 'Dad' is Rusty Pickle and the words are rub-ons.

I must apologise again for not getting round to see everyone this week; I've been busy getting my house ready for sale (in between resting, of course!) and tomorrow I go back to work after 6 months away, although only part-time at first.

Hope to see you at Dottie's World (HAVE YOU SEEN THE NEW PIXIES?), and thanks for visiting. xxx

Cute Card Thursday - Quotations!

2009-06-11T09:08:00.002+01:00

Another lovely challenge today from Cute Card Thursday, which is to use a quotation on your card.

I really like these words, although I don't know who said them, but they're so true! The Hanglar stamp is coloured with Copics, the paper and butterfly are K&Co Wild Raspberry with Prima flowers and Papermania brads. The sentiment is printed onto acetate.

Thanks so much for visiting xxx

Colour Create Challenge - Blush Pink, Lilac & Mossy Green

2009-06-11T08:11:00.002+01:00

This week's challenge at Colour Create is to use a beautiful combination of Blush Pink, Lilac and Mossy Green, all chosen by Tara's daughter, Georgia, and the Design Team have come up with some wonderful creations to provide inspiration. The extra option is to use die cuts.

For my card I used another of Maddy's stamps from Hanglar, Heidi Grace 'A Little Bird's Tale' papers and rub-ons, the die cut tree is October Afternoon, with punched flowers and leaves and a Papermania butterfly. We hope you are able to join us in the challenge this week.

I actually went out last night, another major milestone as I'm usually early to bed these days. Four of us went to see Angels and Demons and I can thoroughly recommend it! I love a conspiracy and with Tom Hanks you usually can't go wrong, especially for £3.25 on the half price Orange Wednesday deal.

The sun is shining again this morning and it's all looking good. Have a great day xxx

Spoon Full of Sugar Challenge - Butterflies

2009-06-09T09:24:00.002+01:00

Sorry I've been away for a few days - it seems the events of the past six months caught up with me and I've been a bit 'off'. The good news though is that I've officially finished treatment and I begin a phased return to work next week and am soooo looking forward to that.

A huge thank you to Dawn for my lovely award which is proudly displayed in my sidebar.

I've not had the inclination or energy to make anything for a week, but A Spoon Full of Sugar got me going again this morning with their 'Butterflies' challenge. The image is one of Maddy's stamps which I coloured with Copics, papers are Doodlebug and K&Co Citronella, flowers Prima, butterflies Craft For Occasions and October Afternoon die-cut leaves. The sentiment is one of Maddy's Autumn Leaves stamps.

There's a touch of Glossy Accents on the puddle.

Have a fabulous day! xxx

Colour Create Challenge - Rainbow Colours!

2009-06-04T08:11:00.000+01:00

Ooooh I loved this one - all the colours of the rainbow is the challenge for this week's Colour Create Challenge with an optional extra to 'Make a Scene'! By the way, the challenge has now moved to Thursdays in case you didn't know, so do pop over to join in if you can!

The Gorjuss Girl is coloured with Copics and I used My Minds Eye 'Bloom and Grow' papers. The card is three dimensional with the image sat on the middle fold in her flower garden.

There's some great examples from the other DT members - sure to give inspiravation.

Have a terrific Thursday and thank you for visiting. xxx

Whiff of Joy - Charms AND ABC Challenge - Quilting!

2009-06-03T11:02:00.002+01:00

One card - two challenges. The Whiff of Joy challenge this week is to use a charm on your project - I thought this 'imagine' charm fitted the dreaminess of the lovely image.

Over at ABC the letter is 'Q' for Quilting, so I went for a patchwork quilt effect with faux stitching.

Papers are My Mind's Eye 'Bloom and Grow', flowers are Prima, Basic Grey brads and a Karen Foster sentiment. I used my Copics for colouring and paper pricked the stitches before drawing them in with a brown Zig pen.

Have a great day and thanks for looking xxx

Spoonful of Sugar Challenge

2009-06-02T11:18:00.002+01:00

There's a lovely sketch to follow for this week's Spoonful of Sugar Challenge and this is my interpretation.

I coloured the Hanglar image with Copics and used the new double sided K&Co Citronella mat pad papers which go perfectly with the K&Co Berry Sweet chipboard embellishments from last year.

Having another day enjoying this wonderful sunshine - hope you are having a good one too! xx

Sketch and Stash Challenge

2009-06-01T09:25:00.002+01:00

I joined in with the Sketch and Stash Challenge this week - seems ages since I followed a sketch and I enjoyed this one.

I used my gorgeous new Charmed Delectable stamp - Irresistible Annie, coloured her with Copics and used my nesties for the mats. Papers are from that magazine freebie again (aren't they great?).

I intend to enjoy the sunshine again today, while it lasts - hope you can do the same!
Have a great day and thanks for visiting xxx

Dottie's World Challenge - Coffee & Cream with Spots or Stripes

2009-05-31T08:02:00.000+01:00

Karen set the challenge over at Dottie's World today and here it is:-

"Coffee and Cream with Spots or Stripes" - and a Charmed download of course.

I used Madison in Paris from the Holly and Madison World Tour Downloads and coloured her with Copics. The papers are Kaisercraft and I stamped the border of the card before blending Brown Corduroy Distress Ink along the edges.

I love working with these colours so really enjoyed this challenge - thanks Karen!

There's just about time for you to join in with the Birthday celebrations at Dottie's World - good luck to everyone who entered the party games!

Have a great sunny Sunday xxx

Cute Daisy May Challenge - Monotone

2009-05-30T12:40:00.002+01:00

It's my first time at the Cute Daisy May challenge, which this week is to make a monotone card. It's ok to use images other than Daisy May, so I went with a Gorjuss Girl for my card, coloured with Copics, and my favourite colour of pink. The paper is a Cardmaking and Papercraft Magazine freebie (nice quality papers!), the sentiment is an Autumn Leaves stamp, I used my nesties for the mat, an x-cut punch for the leaves and Papermania gems. The rose is from Hobbycraft and the ribbon from stash.

I'm feeling really pleased with myself today because I've been sorting out all those paper scraps and am on a mission to use them up. Also sorted all my 12x12's and it's amazing how ideas jump into your head when you see something you had forgotten about.

Hope you're having a gorgeous weekend xxx

Daring Cardmakers - 'Take Five!' AND Just Magnolia - 'Animals and Insects'

2009-05-29T12:46:00.002+01:00

This card is for two challenges today - Just Magnolia, which is to use Animals and/or Insects AND Daring Cardmakers, to use five of something on your project.

Inspired by the gorgeous sunny day I decided to use this lovely Tilda stamp from the Spring kit, coloured her with Copics and used K&Co Citronella papers. The flowers are mostly Prima and the FIVE brads are Papermania.

Hope you're enjoying the lovely weather as much as me! Have a great day xxx

Cute Card Thursday - Bit o' Bling!

2009-05-28T09:20:00.004+01:00

Been playing with my new goodies again and this gorgeous Annie from Charmed Delectable Stamps was in there - isn't she just beautiful!!! I made this card for the Cute Card Thursday Challenge which is 'Bit o' Bling' - my bling is in the glitter on Annie's wings and the gems along the scalloped edge. Papers and the sentiment die cut are K&Co Madeline and flowers are Prima Forever Flowers Hydrangeas.

I'm looking forward to another crafty day - my inspiration seems to have returned so better make the most of it while it lasts!

Have a fabulous day xxx

ABC Challenge - P is for Pearls!

2009-05-27T13:42:00.002+01:00

Well my parcel arrived and it's every bit as gorgeous as I thought! The new K&Co ranges are sooooo beautiful and thanks to Karen for super speedy delivery, as always! I made this card for this week's ABC Challenge which is 'P for Pearls'. The sweet WOJ stamp is coloured with Copics with Stickles added to the flowers and wings. Papers and other elements are K&Co Que Sera Sera with pearl gems added to the flowers and butterfly and the sentiment is a rub-on.

Sorry Tara if I made you go spending again LOL!
Thanks for visiting xxx

Copics Colour Challenge

2009-05-27T08:52:00.002+01:00

The colours for this week's Copics Colour Challenge are:

R59 - Cardinal Red

YG63 - Pea Green

C3 - Cool Grey

I'm on a mission to use up some paper scraps at the moment and managed it again with this card, although most of them are K&Co, with the addition of ephemera from a K&Co pack. OK, I'll own up, I ordered some of the new ranges yesterday from Charmed, so it lessens the guilt using up old bits and pieces!

Been enjoying the lovely weather and spending time in the garden, although today doesn't look too promising, so maybe I'll have a play with my new stash if it arrives this morning.

Have a good day! xxx

Dottie's World Challenge - Buttons & Beads!

2009-05-24T08:27:00.001+01:00

Have you checked out Dottie's World recently - it's had a makeover and is looking fabulous! Adele set the challenge this week and here it is:

Buttons or Beads!
I have tons of them but rarely use them ! Dig deep into your crafty stash and embellish away. It doesn't matter how you use them, as long as they are visible on your creation. If you haven't got any (!!!!) improvise! Only other "rule" is that a Charmed Download must be used.

The gorgeous Madison is coloured with Distress Inks (yes, I fancied a change!) and I really enjoyed using them again.
Papers are WR Memory Keepers, flowers Prima with Basic Grey buttons and leaf stamp.

There's still time to take part in all the 1st Birthday party games with a chance to win fabulous prizes and candy.
Have a great day! xxx

Colour Create Challenge - Lemon, Pink Sorbet & Chocolate

2009-05-24T08:19:00.001+01:00

Mmmmm, sounds good enough to eat - and it's today's challenge at Colour Create with the extra option being 'Shabby Chic'! This is a gorgeous colour combination and I chose to use Tilda, coloured with Copics and papers from my scraps box. Rub-ons used are Fancy Pants, there are a couple of Prima flowers and some lace in there and lots of inky and torn edges. The other DT cards are sooooo beautiful - check them out for some amazing inspiration.

Hope you get the chance to join us this week! xx

Basic Grey Challenge - Doodling!

2009-05-23T09:38:00.002+01:00

The Basic Grey Challenge this morning is to add doodling to your project ..... right up my street this one - put a white Inkessentials pen in my hand and I don't know when to stop! I used my favourite stamp of the moment - Annie from Charmed Delectable Stamps, coloured her with Copics and dug out my 6x6 Basic Grey Euphoria paper pad. It's really nice sometimes to go back to older ranges and remember how much you like them, and you have the satisfaction of using up scraps.

Well I survived the last of the nasty chemos and the effects are beginning to wear off now - just wanted to say thank you again for all your good wishes and to let you know how much your support helps!

Have you been joining in with the party games at the new look Dottie's World this week - if you missed them there's still time and the prizes are AMAZING! We have 4 new Design Team members and a brand new challenge will be posted tomorrow morning.

Hope you have a fabulous Bank Holiday weekend with the promise of good weather!!!

xxx

Copics Colour Challenge

2009-05-20T08:14:00.000+01:00

Wednesday already! Where do the days go? Well I've been playing with my Copics again for this week's Copics Colour Challenge, and Karen chose these colours for us to work with.

The blue didn't quite make it onto my card, but that's ok because the red and yellow did! Papers are Cosmo Cricket, the scroll is Basic Grey and the paper flowers are Prima, although I don't know where the red glittery ones came from.

It's chemo for me today and tomorrow, but the good news is they're the last ones - phew! Hopefully get back to some normality soon - whatever that is!

Have a lovely day xxx

Basic Grey Challenge - Ice Cream!

2009-05-18T09:19:00.005+01:00

It's a fabulous theme for this week's Basic Grey Challenge - Ice Cream! How could I not use this yummy Cupcake paper? The other papers, used for the borders, were a magazine freebie and again perfect for this challenge.

The stamp is the beautiful Annie from Charmed Delectable Stamps and coloured with Copics inspired by the colours of Neapolitan Ice Cream. Flowers are a mix of Prima and Papermania and the brads and die cut heart are Basic Grey.

Have a great day xxx

Colour Create Challenge - Sky Blue, Tan and Ecru

2009-05-17T09:00:00.001+01:00

It's Sunday again and that means it's time for another Colour Create Challenge and this week we were given the beautiful combination of Sky Blue, Tan and Ecru to work with, and an optional extra element of Gloss, Glitter or Glaze.

I used Bazzill Swiss Dots cardstock in tan, Kaisercraft papers, Prima flowers, Papermania pearl brads and my Sizzix swirls die. The sewing machine came out again and the Sugar Nellie stamp (Maddy's I think?) is coloured with Copics. Sentiment is from the Smirk stamp sheet, lace from Hobbycraft and ribbon from stash box - oh and I used a Fiskars border punch too!

It's great to see so many people taking part in this challenge and truly amazing to look at the vast variety of techniques and styles.

Have a fab Sunday xxx

Just Magnolia - Sketch

2009-05-15T09:58:00.002+01:00

The challenge at Just Magnolia this week is to follow a lovely sketch and as it's such a dull rainy day I decided to go for the bright colours of these My Mind's Eye 'Bloom and Grow' papers! Tilda is coloured with copics, the flowers are cut from one of the papers and the sentiment is an Autumn Leaves stamp.

Have a lovely day and keep dry if you can! xx

Cute Card Thursday - Letters and Numbers

2009-05-14T09:49:00.004+01:00

Over at Cute Card Thursday the challenge is to use Letters and/or Numbers on your card. I used Cross-stitch Tilda, coloured with Copics, Pink Paislee and Fancy Pants papers, Prima flowers and Papermania numbers and brads. The centre panel is created using a Fiskars border punch and lace from Hobbycraft.

The photo is a bit dull this morning due to the horrible weather - wish I didn't have to go out in it!

Just a little reminder about the mega-party beginning on Sunday at Dottie's World and it goes on all next week. I'm still deciding what to wear, but will definately be there - hope to see you too!

Have you seen the prizes and candy on offer - shame I can't win any of it (think the DT are excluded LOL!).

Have a great day xxx

Copics Colour Challenge - Sketch

2009-05-13T08:27:00.003+01:00

Maddy has provided us with a great sketch this week for the Copics Colour Challenge and we can use whatever colours we want! I used another of the gorgeous Annie stamps available from Charmed, and sat her on a Magnolia bench seat.

Other elements used: Magnolia rub-on, Papermania flowers and brads, WRMK gromlet, Stickles frosted lace glitter glue, Fiskars threading water punch, Dymo machine for sentiment and gingham ribbon.

Have a lovely day and TFL xx

Papertake Weekly - Animal Antics!

2009-05-12T13:24:00.003+01:00

Just managed to squeeze in this card which is for Papertake Weekly - a challenge I always enjoy taking part in. This week we are to use an animal on our work, so I chose this Sugar Nellie stamp featuring a cute kitten, coloured with Copics. Papers are Kaisercraft with Heidi Grace chipboard elements and rub-ons, ribbon and flowers are from the Creative Treasures May Kit with 'card candy' centres also from Creative Treasures.

Have a great day in the sunshine and TFL xxx.

Dottie's World Challenge - 'Charmed'

2009-05-10T07:23:00.002+01:00

It's my turn again to set this week's Dottie's World Challenge - don't the weeks fly by? Anyway, here it is:

"Charmed - this week's challenge is to add a charm to your project. It can be anything as long as it dangles (oops, does that sound too rude?) and, of course, one of the Charmed downloads too!"

The delightful Holly in the Garden is coloured with my beloved Copics, the papers are all from a recent magazine freebie and are gorgeous!!, chopped and snipped here and there, leaves are created with my McGill punch and the flower is Prima. The lovely sentiment is a Basic Grey rub-on, with a bit of K&Co rub-on at either side and there are a couple of charms dangling from the flower. I also made some paper beads - really easy to do: simply roll an elongated triangle of paper and glue to secure.

Pop over to Dottie's World to see more fabulous Design Team work and why not join the challenge - it's an easy peasy one really!
Have a fab day and thanks for visiting. xxx

Fabulous News AND Colour Create Challenge - Blue and Green

2009-05-10T07:17:00.002+01:00

I am so excited to be able to tell you that I have been asked to join the Colour Create Challenge Design Team on a permanent basis - one of my very favourite challenges! How lucky am I?

Beautiful rich colours are the order of the day this week at Colour Create Challenge, and this photo is sure to inspire - well it did it for me! The extra element is to use paper piecing if you wish.

I loved working with these colours and this Gorjuss Girl - I paper pieced her dress and coloured the rest of her with Copics. I can't remember where the paper is from, but it fitted perfectly and I chopped and snipped at it to create the bands across the middle and the leaves. The flowers are Making Memories Sweets and the sentiment is stamped with a few pearlised gems added.

I'm really loving these colour challenges and the other DT examples are sure to inspire you - if you haven't already, why not give it a go?

Just Magnolia Challenge - In Stitches

2009-05-08T13:23:00.002+01:00

My first entry into the Just Magnolia challenge which is to use stitching, faux or real, on your project. I used Papermania Regency papers, Tilda is coloured with Copics and the sentiment is stamped and chalked. Flowers are Prima and the large die cut flower and leaf are Basic Grey. I dusted off my sewing machine for the stitching and added a few tiny pink pearls to finish along with a length of American Crafts velvet ribbon.

TFL xxx

Cute Card Thursday - Happy Mail

2009-05-07T09:20:00.003+01:00

What a fabulous reason for making a card this week at Cute Card Thursday! Post Pals is a charity which send mail/cards to poorly children to cheer them up, usually when they have a terminal illness, and CCT are asking us to send our 'Happy Cards' to the charity - what more worthwhile cause could there be?

I was lucky enough to receive my Annie stamps yesterday from Charmed, so this is her debut here but I promise you will see much more of her - she's just a delight to colour and sooooo cute. Papers are the new Papermania 'Blueberry Hill' and flowers are Prima. The border was created with my Fiskars Border punch and the sentiment was done on my computer.

Hope the sun is shining where you are - have a lovely day and please try to join the Cute Card Thursday Challenge if you can. xxx

Copics Colour Challenge

2009-05-06T07:55:00.003+01:00

Wednesday is here again already and another new Copics Colour Challenge. Here are this week's colours and my card, but check out the blog for some fab DT cards and inspiration.

I used my new Cross Stitch Tilda stamp, Prima Tea and Silk papers and Prima flowers. The metal corner and tiny frame were in my stash box and I picked up this cute little X-Cut leaf punch for half price recently.

Hope you get chance to join us again this week - we love seeing everyone's use of the colours.

Have a good day and try to dodge the rain drops! xxx

Dotties World Challenge

2009-05-03T07:45:00.003+01:00

Louise set the challenge at Dottie's World today and she gave us this photograph to take inspiration from. I like using photographs this way because we all take different things from them.....the first thing I saw was the beautiful vivid colours and the pattern created by the fabric. I chose two of my favourite colours to work with and tried to echo the texture and pattern with the flowers. Holly in Bavaria is from the Holly and Madison World Tour Collection and is available here. I wish I could remember where the papers are from - they were in my scrap box and just seemed to fall into place.

Hope you're able to join us at Dottie's World this week - don't forget to check out the gorgeously handsome Mikey!

Colour Create Challenge - Cream, Brown and Red

2009-05-03T07:33:00.003+01:00

The challenge at Colour Create this week is to use Cream, Brown and Red on your project, with inspriation coming from this rather delish looking chocolate cake, with the extra element to use ribbon.
It was really exciting creating my first Guest Designer Card for Colour Create and I decided to use this lovely Tilda stamp, coloured with Copics, with Cosmo Cricket papers and sentiment from the gorgeous TSV from last year. The flowers are from Hobbycraft and make a change from the usual Prima (which I still love btw!) and there's some ribbon in there too!

Thank you for all the Birthday wishes - I don't feel any different at all from when I was in my 40's (phew!). My lovely sons are planning to take me out for a meal later, but now I NEED to open my pressies and cards!

Have a great day xxx

AWOL again - well it's just not good enough is it?

2009-05-02T06:39:00.001+01:00

I know, sorry! Gosh things have been really busy around here the last couple of days, but hoping to catch up a little today. I made this USA Holly card for Dottie's World.
I used Kaisercraft papers, Prima Flowers and gems and coloured Holly with Copics. This is my first try using Coredinations Whitewashed cardstock through a Cuttlebug folder and the effect is really lovely!

Well today is the last day of my 40's so we're having lots of celebrations around here. Back again on the first day of my 50's - yikes!!!

Have a great weekend xxx

ABC Challenge - L is for List!

2009-04-29T09:13:00.003+01:00

The ABC Challenge this week is 'L for List' ....... to use one ribbon, three flowers and six brads.

I went back to the K&Co Wild Raspberry papers and this gorgeous Miss Anya stamp, coloured with Copics, Doodlebug frosted brads and Prima flowers.

Thanks for all your good wishes yesterday - all went well, and so far I still feel ok *touches wood* - the great thing is I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel, and I'm not going back in there!!!

The sun is shining and I need to go for a walk then have a Copics play day. Have a good one xxx

Copics Colour Challenge

2009-04-29T07:43:00.000+01:00

It's challenge day today over at the Copics Colour Challenge and here are the colours for us all this week.

The colours are all there in the Gorjuss Girl, but I wanted to add more pastels so chose to use these K&Co Sparkly Sweet speciality papers to 'pretty' it up a bit. The flowers are Prima, the ribbon is part of the May Creative Treasures Kit and the sentiment is Maddy's Autumn Leaves stamp.

I really enjoyed visiting all your blogs this week seeing the wonderful creations from my challenge and am looking forward to seeing what you come up with this week. Do join in if you can....here's hoping you have a lovely crafty day! xxx

Papertake Weekly - Spots and Stripes

2009-04-28T09:03:00.002+01:00

Just managed to put this card together for this week's Papertake Weekly Challenge, which is 'Spots and Stripes'.

I used this cute Rachelle Anne Miller stamp, coloured with Copics, and MME Laundry Line papers - both spots and stripes. Flowers are Prima and epoxy buttons are Making Memories.

Hope you have a good day - I have another chemo today, so gotta dash...but just wanted to say a massive 'thank you' for all your lovely comments and sorry I don't always manage to get round to say it individually. xxx

Colour Create Challenge - Orange, Green & Brown

2009-04-26T13:00:00.002+01:00

I was thrilled last week to be asked by Tara at Colour Create Challenge to be their first Guest Designer for May.....of course I said 'YES', and next Sunday will be my first GD spot for one of my favourite challenges. This week's challenge is to use Orange, Green and Brown on your project, perfect colours for another 'Boy' card using the gorgeous Mikey from the Charmed downloads.

Mikey is coloured with Copics, there are various Kaiser Craft rub-ons and the star and arrow are cut from Blonde Moments Friends Junction papers. I hope I didn't overdo the 'grunge' look!

Thanks for visiting xxx

Dottie's World Challenge - Teenagers!

2009-04-26T09:47:00.003+01:00

Adele set this week's challenge over at Dottie's World, and she's set us the task of making a card for a teenager. I used Holly from the 'Holly and Madison' downloads, coloured her with Copics and used K&Co Wild Raspberry paper. All the other bits and pieces are from my stash box and have obviously been waiting for this card!

Go check out the other DT work - it's fabulous and sooooo inspiring.

Have a wonderful day whatever you're doing! xxx

Mikey!

2009-04-25T09:07:00.002+01:00

Cards for teenage boys are a whole lot easier now with the release of Mikey from Louise Brigden, available at Charmed. He is just so easy to colour - I used Copics, but any medium works well, and in the downloads you get both coloured or plain images to make it even easier! Papers are Basic Grey Recess and I made a pocket for the front of the card which is ideal to put money or vouchers, and which teenage boy doesn't like money!!!

Check out Dottie's World for more examples of Mikey and the other downloads and the fab challenges which are posted every Sunday.

Daring Cardmakers - Supersize Me!

2009-04-25T08:54:00.002+01:00

The challenge at Daring Cardmakers this week is 'Supersize Me'. Images of giant cards came to mind, I was relieved to see that it was to use up some of those large embellishments from our stash. I chose to use one of the large paper flowers, this stunning raffia flower and the pretty hydrangeas, all from my May Creative Treasures kit (bursting with the most gorgeous flowers and ribbon in really beautiful colours and will be available on their website verrrrrry soon).

Papers are K&Co Hopscotch, letters are papermania, the chip number I covered with K&Co paper too, and the image is coloured with Copics.

This is for a very special little girl!

Have a wonderful weekend xxx

Cute Card Thursday - Getting Edgy!

2009-04-23T16:12:00.003+01:00

I just love these Wild Raspberry papers by K & Co - gorgeous colours and designs, so used them yet again for this Cute Card Thursday challenge which is to sand, tear, distress or sew the edges on your card. I went for the distressing with scissors look which means you can hack away as much or as little as you like. The Gorjuss Girl is coloured with Copics and the beautiful ribbon and flowers are all from the May Creative Treasures Kit.

Hope you're having a good day and still enjoying warm sunshine! xx

Mikey's Debut and Daring Cardmakers

2009-04-23T09:04:00.002+01:00

Here he is, the long awaited, jaw-droppingly gorgeous Mikey (already spoken for though - he's Madison's fella!), and he's available now to download from Charmed. This card also fits with the Daring Cardmakers challenge this week, which is 'Games and Toys for Boys'. I used Basic Grey Cupcake papers and die cut, Mikey is coloured with Copics and the sentiment is stamped onto a punched star, all edged with Distress Inks.Hope you like him and thanks for visiting xx

Copics Colour Challenge

2009-04-22T07:22:00.000+01:00

It was my turn to choose the colours for this week's Copics Colour Challenge and here they are....

I used a Miss Anya stamp, DCWV papers, Prima flowers and lots of gems! We would love you to join us this week and look forward to seeing your gorgeous Copic creations.

Thanks for visiting xx

Papertake Weekly - Sketch

2009-04-21T08:58:00.002+01:00

Dawny P has given us one of her lovely sketches to work with at Papertake Weekly this week and here is my interpretation. Tilda is coloured with Copics, papers are K&Co Wild Raspberry (gorgeous!!), the butterfly is cut from one of the papers too. I created the sentiment on my computer and used lots of the fab flowers from the May Creative Treasures kit with sugar coated brads in the centres.

The sun has yet to make an appearance here, but we are assured it will - yay!

Have a lovely day xxx

Cute Card Thursday - Floral Fantasy

2009-04-20T10:25:00.002+01:00

Who can resist flowers? Well, I can't! The challenge over at Cute Card Thursday this week is 'Floral Fantasy', simply to use flowers on your card. Perfect timing too, as I received the May kit from Creative Treasures on Friday, so all the flowers and ribbon will be available very soon on the website. I have to say Tracey has excelled herself with this kit - the colours are just beautiful and watch this space for some stunning raffia flowers which are also included....stunning! The lovely new Rachelle Anne Miller stamp (a prize from the lovely Karen at Charmed) is coloured with Copics, paper is K&Co Wild Raspberry and the sentiment is an Inkadinkadoo stamp.

Those few days away have done me the world of good - feeling a little more enthusiasm now so thinking a crafty day maybe? Wonder if I can craft in the garden.....

Have a great day and thanks for visiting xxx

Copics Colour Challenge

2009-04-15T07:53:00.000+01:00

It's Louise's choice of colours this week at Copics Colour Challenge and here's what she chose...

I'd already decided to use this Tilda stamp and when colouring her I noticed the holly leaves in her hair, so Christmas it had to be - that's two so far this year! The acrylic snowflake is coloured with the Cadmuim Orange Copic.
Having a few days away from crafting and taking advantage of the nice weather and school holidays, hoping to find my mojo somewhere on my travels.

Have a great day xxx

Colour Create Challenge - Chocolate, Coffee & Cream

2009-04-12T11:10:00.005+01:00

Another great colour combination to use today at Colour Create Challenge - Chocolate, Coffee and Cream. I coloured the Gorjuss Girl with Copics, used Daisy Bucket papers, Tim Holtz Journaling and Adage Tickets, cotton lace, Papermania pearl brads and Prima clear gems and flowers. The lace flower was made by gathering the lace. An added extra to this week's challenge is to use distressing on your project, so I took the scissors to most of the edges and inked them up.

I just had to share this photo which I took yesterday - the epitome of Spring! Aren't they just delightful and very appropriate to see new life on this Easter Day - doesn't mum look proud? We are very lucky to live close to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, which is a truly beautiful place and well worth a visit if you are in the area - get your walking boots on though! That's where we spotted these beauties and there is work on display from Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore and many other famous sculptors - all in a natural tranquil setting of Yorkshire countryside with it's dramatic scenery and amazing trees. And best of all - it's free (car park £4 for the day)!!!

Here's a couple more tasters to persuade you ......

Thanks for visiting xx

Edited to add that the Yorkshire Sculpture Park is just off Junction 38 of the M1 on the A637 - more info on the website http://www.ysp.co.uk/view.aspx?id=3 - enjoy!

Dottie's World Challenge - Handmade!

2009-04-12T07:48:00.000+01:00

Nicola set this week's challenge over at Dottie's World and here's what she asked of us - eeeeeek!!!

"Hand Made...I dont want to see any ready made backing papers or embellishments. I want to see hand printed/stamped or coloured backing papers and embelishments, can be anything from a flower to shrink plastic etc...And of course a Charmed download."

Well, panic well and truly set in at this - no backing papers, no way I thought! Anyhow, when I finally calmed down I set to work and came up with this.....

I coloured Madison with Copics then stamped the card with this funky flower stamp all over, colouring certain areas in the same Copic colours. I then went over the whole card with Ranger Distress Ink in Brushed Corduroy using foam to blend. The flowers are punched and scrunched with inked edges and pearl beads stuck in the centres with Glossy Accents. The two sentiments are stamps and I doodled here and there with white Inkessentials pen.

There you go, proof that it is possible to create something without designer papers!

HAPPY EASTER and have a wonderful day! xxx

Still Here....

2009-04-11T00:36:00.002+01:00

....must the first day I've not posted in months, but I'm still here - just decided to get out and about a bit more as it's the holidays which leaves little time for crafting. Anyway, here is one I made earlier, as they say, which I haven't shown before and it's a Pink Gem stamp coloured with Distress Inks, various paper scraps and punched flowers. I hope you're enjoying your Easter weekend as much as we are, despite the weather, and the Easter Bunny drops by for you with some choccy!

xxx

Cute Card Thursday - Marshmallows & Chocolate!

2009-04-09T10:07:00.002+01:00

What a yummy combination!!! It's the challenge at Cute Card Thursday this week - to use pink and brown on your project. I chose this pretty Tilda image to colour with Copics and Basic Grey Two Scoops and Kaisercraft papers. I used a Fiskars embossing border punch for the scalloped edge, lace from Hobbycraft and Papermania pearls on the handmade flowers.

Off for an hour of relaxation at The Breast Cancer Haven in Leeds - will report back later! Have a good day xxx

Stamp with Stampavie - Red and White

2009-04-08T11:25:00.003+01:00

Here's my card for this week's Stamp with Stampavie Challenge, which is to use red and white on your project. I coloured the Gorjuss Girl with Copics, used Nestabilities to cut the mats and cut the flowers, hearts and leaves from Sandylion paper. I'm quite pleased with the result and love this colour combination.

Have a great day xx

Copic Colour Challenge

2009-04-08T08:29:00.004+01:00

It's Wednesday and that can only mean there's another great Copic Colour Challenge this week set by Adele, and I just love the colours she chose.

The fabulous new is that this week's challenge is sponsored by Toodles & Binks and they are offering a prize of some of their stamps - what's more, if you use a Toodles & Binks item on your project you will get two entries into the draw if you leave a comment telling us what you used.

Anyway, enough waffle, here's my DT card for this challenge using Toodles & Binks 'Simone' and she was a dream to colour.
Hope to see you over at the challenge.
xxx

Papertake Weekly - Sketch

2009-04-07T09:10:00.002+01:00

Dawny has treated us to one of her sketches this week at Papertake Weekly - I just hope you can still see it as I ended up turning it and re-sizing some of the elements. The image is Miss Anya, coloured with Copics and the paper is Kaisercraft. I also used the lovely stamps which come with the Creative Treasures April kit, as well as some of the lovely lilac ribbon and a flower.

Well, the weather is looking quite promising - hope the sunshine lasts and you have a wonderful day!xxx

Had a lovely surprise this morning....

2009-04-06T17:51:00.002+01:00

....when my Cute Card Thursday prize dropped through the letterbox all the way from The Greeting Farm in America. I chose the set of Dress Up Anya and Ian stamps and this is the first creation using the cute little guy.

He's coloured with Copics and his clothes are paper pieced. Instead of a Pirate Ship it turned into a Pirate Kart somehow! Papers are Basic Grey Boxer with Cupcake buttons, and variety of rub-ons and stamped sentiments.

There's BIG news over at Charmed Cards and Crafts today - a brand spanking new range of clear stamps are soon to be released and they are just too wantable! Check it all out here.

Magnolia Vs Stampavie Challenge

2009-04-05T14:00:00.002+01:00

There's a sketch to follow this week at Magnolia Vs Stampavie, and yet another of Maddy's stamps make an appearance (she's got sooooo many you know LOL!). Papers are My Mind's Eye Bloom and Grow, Tilda and the flowers are coloured with Copics, Prima flowers and gems, Fancy Pants ribbon and a stamped sentiment.

TFL xxx

Colour Create Challenge - Duck Egg Blue and Rose

2009-04-05T11:15:00.003+01:00

Another fabulous colour combination for the challenge at Colour Create this week - Duck Egg Blue and Rose, with a little extra challenge to use either faux or real stitching. I used Prima Tea and Silk paper (both sides) for this card, and coloured the sweet image with Copics. I machine stitched the border around the image, distressed the edges with scissors and added Distress Ink. The flowers are Prima, ribbons Fancy Pants 'Wildheart', and the sentiment is stamped and chalked.

Thanks again Maddy for the stamped images xx

Have a lovely Sunday and thanks for visiting.

Dottie's World Challenge - All Things Bright and Beautiful!

2009-04-05T07:22:00.000+01:00

It's my week for setting the challenge over at Dottie's World (that came around quickly!) and I chose the theme 'All Things Bright and Beautiful', to reflect both Spring and Easter. I used Holly in the Garden from the Holly and Madison collection coloured with Copics. Papers are MME Bloom and Grow, flowers Prima, stamped and chalked sentiment and the leaves were cut on my Silhouette.

I hope you get chance to take part in the challenge - we love looking at all your wonderful creations.

Enjoy your Sunday xxx

Basic Grey Challenge - Easter/Spring

2009-04-04T12:29:00.003+01:00

Loving using these bright Spring/Summery colours at the moment and another chance to use my Basic Grey Urban Prairie papers for this week's Basic Grey Challenge. The image is coloured with Copics, flowers are Prima and the sentiment is a stamp which I punched out and chalked. The butterfly at the top right is glittered, which doesn't show up too well in the photo. Brads are BG Cupcake, ribbon is from the Creative Treasures April Kit with felt ribbon attached and the leaves were created with a McGill punch.

Hope you're enjoying the sunshine xx

Sketch Saturday

2009-04-04T10:01:00.002+01:00

Tracie designed the sketch this week at Sketch Saturday and I finished my Easter cards! Papers are Imaginisce and Anna Griffin, the images are Whiff of Joy coloured with Distress Inks and flowers are Prima. The border was created with Fiskars Threading Water punch and I punched the circles from the Imaginisce papers.

Thanks once again for all your lovely good wishes and have a great weekend xxx

Cute Card Thursday - Citrus Colours!

2009-04-02T19:30:00.002+01:00

Hot Pink! Lime! Orange! Lemon! All favourite colours of mine and all in the Cute Card Thursday Challenge this week.

When Maddy and Rachel visited earlier in the week we had a stampfest of each others stamps, and these were some of Maddy's (made sure I got loads of these!!). Tilda and the cake are coloured with Copics, papers are K&Co Berry Sweet Speciality, as are the chipboard embellies and the cheeky monkies are flocked too! Been dying to use these for ages. The frame was cut using my Silhouette.

Had the first half of chemo No 2 today ... so far so good. Second half tomorrow, so may be a bit quiet around here over the weekend......on the other hand, hopefully not! Don't abandon me though - I'll be back!

Thanks for visiting xxx

Do you love flowers as much as me?

2009-04-02T07:16:00.001+01:00

Flowers make an appearance on most of my work, so you can imagine how delighted I was to be asked to join the Design Team at Creative Treasures. These are the first few makes using the gorgeous April kit, and there are plenty more to come in the next day or so.

This card uses the beautiful 1" blooms in lilac and the palest green and the matching grossgrain ribbon.

1" and 11/2" flowers in lilac and white

Here I used one of the 3" flowers in a beautiful pale green

And finally for now, this box is embellished with this delicate green and gold organza ribbon and various sizes of the yellow flowers.

Hope you like and thank you for looking xxx

Crafting With Friends, Pizza, Chocolate......and a Mouse.....

2009-04-01T08:40:00.003+01:00

.....what more could you ask for in a perfect day? Maddy, Rachel and Calvin Mouse came to me yesterday, and it's true - Calvin Mouse really does eat everything he sees! He did come all prepared for a crafty day though with his craft table and chair and his Bigshot. First he tucked into his jacket potato.....

....then he went missing - this is where we found him! Notice how much chocolate he's eaten.....
.......Maddy decided she was having some of that!
Me and Rachel hoping there's some left for us.....(there wasn't!)
Me and Maddy (after the Easter Egg!)
Maddy being her usual cheeky self!

We all had a fabulous day, with heaps of laughter, and can't wait till the next time!

Copic Colour Challenge

2009-04-01T08:15:00.003+01:00

It's Wednesday already and that means it's time for another Copic Colour Challenge. This week the colours are:

I used the Holly in London image from the Holly & Madison World Tour collection and thought the blue really suited her. Papers are K&Co Bailey, the paper swirl was cut with a Sissix die and the gem swirls are Prima as are the flowers. A little distressing and inky edges and that is it!

Had a great day yesterday with Maddy and Rachel - lots of crafting done and lots of nattering too! I also had a surprise visitor - check back later for photos.
xxx

Papertake Weekly - Recipe

2009-03-31T08:30:00.002+01:00

A recipe is the challenge at Papertake Weekly this week:

1 Circle

2 Ribbons

3 Stamps

I used the lovely 'Madison on Safari' image from Holly & Madison's World Tour downloads, coloured with Copics and the papers are Blonde Moments (bought at the Harrogate Show). The flowers are Prima, ribbons, brads, butterfly and ladybugs from stash. So, the circle is the sentiment, which is also a stamp, the image is a stamp/download and the flower stem is a stamp, with two ribbons used. I think that covers it!

Having a crafty play day today - Maddy and Rachel are coming to mine. Hope we manage to get something done amongst all the gabbing LOL.
Have a good one! xxx

Sketch Saturday

2009-03-30T10:15:00.002+01:00

Yet another fab sketch at Sketch Saturday this week and another excuse to use my Miss Anya stamps - really love these! She is coloured with Copics, the papers are Kaisercraft and I used the papers as part of the sketch when I spotted the vine running through the paper which is perfect as a background to the flowers (circles on the sketch). The leaves were cut with my McGill punch, the sentiment is a stamp and the flowers are Prima with Papermania gems added to the centres.

Going to have a look at the Basic Grey Challenge now for more inspiration, so watch this space.

Have a great day! xxx

Colour Create Challenge - Lilac and Blue

2009-03-29T11:01:00.004+01:00

I always say this, but I really love the Colour Create Challenge and this week it's Lilac and Blue - not two colours I would usually put together, but it works! The 'optional extras' were to use ribbon and swirls on your project. I was lucky enough to get the Miss Anya stamps last week and they are gorgeous and so easy to work with, so couldn't wait to use them. She is coloured with Copics BV02 and B02, the flowers are Prima (one of yesterday's buys) and the chipboard is Heidi Grace 'A Little Bird's Tale'. Papers are Crate (lilac) and something else (?!).

The weather has certainly picked up again and it's a beautiful Spring morning, exactly as it was when my son was born 20 years ago today! (where did that time go?)

Have a lovely Sunday xxx

Dottie's World Challenge - Shaped Card

2009-03-29T07:01:00.000+01:00

Louise set the challenge this week over at Dottie's World - to make a shaped card; anything except a rectangle or square! Now, this is something I'm not particularly good at, but here is my effort. I used Madison in Japan from the World Tour Collection, coloured her with Copics R05 and BG05, and added these beautiful orchids which I've had for ages. I know orchids don't grow like this, but hey! - I put it down to artistic licence, and the fact that they wouldn't fit on one branch. The shaped card was cut on my Silhouette, but I'm still experimenting with different card weights and it found the Bazzill slightly tricky - some adjustments needed there!

Had a great day at Harrogate yesterday and met up with some crafty pals - boy, was it busy!!! I didn't spend too much though, but you may see a couple of new stamps appearing soon.

Have a lovely Sunday xxx

AWOL Today!

2009-03-28T07:20:00.001Z

I know I've been ranting on about it for days now, but I'm in Harrogate today at the Papercrafts Show - YAY!

I made this card for my DT work over at Dottie's World, so thought I would also show it here as I love the image of Holly in Spain sooooo much. Paper is K&Co Berry Sweet Speciality and the swirl and flower are cut from the same glittery paper. Holly is coloured with Copics and stickles has been added to her dress.

Copics used: R05,Y08, BG05, YR16, RV06, G14

Have a great day, whatever you're doing! xxx

Daring Cardmakers - 'Bunnies and Chicks'

2009-03-27T16:43:00.002Z

At Daring Cardmakers today the dare is to make a project using 'Bunnies and/or Chicks' - you can just about see the chick on this new Leanne Ellis stamp which I received today along with some Gorjuss Girls and Greeting Farm stamps.

I used Copics for colouring the image and the leaves (which is a stamp but can't remember where from!), and the last few bits of my Blonde Moments papers which I intend to replenish tomorrow in Harrogate. The sentiment is a stamp and the felt flowers are from stash box.

Thanks for visiting xxx

Friday Sketchers

2009-03-27T09:30:00.003Z

You already know how much I like working with sketches and today's challenge at Friday Sketchers is another fabulous one. I used Basic Grey Urban Prairie papers for this H&S image which is coloured with Copics. The 'love' ticket is a Tim Holtz Adage and the sentiment is a Penny Black stamp.

Nearly the weekend and what a great one to look forward to with the Great Northern Papercrafts Extravaganza in Harrogate this weekend, and my son coming home from Uni this evening. Got to rush now this morning....have to be somewhere soon!

Have a great day xxx

Just wanted to add that the mustard was achieved with Y21 and Y17 and the flower was made using the lace pleated and stitched together. xx

The Sugar Bowl Challenge - 'Spring or Easter'

2009-03-26T11:34:00.003Z

The challenge over at the Sugar Bowl today is to make a project celebrating Spring or Easter, so I was more than happy to use lovely bright and cheery colours with these K&Co Berry Sweet papers and my Gorjuss Girl coloured with Copics. I cut the frame on my Silhouette and added Prima flowers, a piece of Felt Fusion and a couple of Berry Sweet embellishments and gems. The little chick is a WOJ stamp coloured with Copics.

Thanks for looking ... would love to hear your comments xxx

Cute Card Thursday - Family Affair!

2009-03-26T10:07:00.003Z

First of all, I'm thrilled to have won the CCT challenge prize last week - a cute set of stamps from The Greeting Farm - thanks guys xx.

Secondly, how did they know at Cute Card Thursday that it is my son's 20th birthday on Sunday and that I needed to make a card? The challenge this week is to make a card for a family member - perfect!!! So here it is, using Basic Grey Cupcake papers and die cuts, with a photograph of my son which is behind acetate in a chipboard frame. Just need to put some cash inside and he'll be happy! He's at university in Birmingham studying to be a PE teacher, and is coming home tomorrow to celebrate with his friends, then all the family are going out for a meal on Sunday, so a lovely weekend in prospect (especially as I'm going to the Papercrafts Extravaganza in Harrogate on Saturday!).

Have a super duper day xxx

ABC Challenge - Glitter

2009-03-25T10:08:00.003Z

The ABC Challenge today is G for Glitter - and I went to town with the Stickles for this around the border, on the star and on the sentiment circle. Papers are Fancy Pants Sweet Pea and the gorgeous Gorjuss Girl is coloured with Copics. I distressed all the edges with scissors, inked edges with Distress Ink and added a little bling.

Have a great day and thank you for visiting ..... love hearing your comments! xxx

Copic Colour Challenge

2009-03-25T07:57:00.000Z

This week at Copic Colour Challenge Shell gave us these gorgeous colours to work with:I used my new SN stamp for this (just fell in love with this image when I saw her!), and cut the frames and leaves on my Silhouette. This also illustrates how you can also achieve very pale, delicate shades using Copics and how versatile they are. The butterfly and flower centre are K&Co and pearl gems and flowers are Papermania.

Hope you get the chance to join us this week - we all look forward to seeing your wonderful Copic creations.
xxx

Two Challenges......

2009-03-24T10:02:00.003Z

Magnolia Vs Stampavie - 'Get in Shape' AND Spoonful of Sugar - 'Easter' are the two challenges for which I made this card. I cut the oval shape on my Silhouette, the new Spring Collection Tilda is coloured with Copics as is the Imaginisce Chick, papers are from stash box (can't remember, sorry!), and the ribbon came from Ribbon Oasis in a prize I won. I don't usually combine challenges - feels a bit like cheating!
Hope the sun is shining for you - it's much calmer here today and I'm going to take advantage of it. Have a great day xxx

Papertake Weekly - Sketch

2009-03-23T18:13:00.003Z

We are treated to another of Dawny's sketches today at Papertake Weekly....and what a gorgeous one it is too! I've spent some time today colouring images with my Copics and this Gorjuss Girl is one of them. Papers are SEI and DCWV, rub-ons Magnolia, flowers Prima and raffia lace from stash.

Can't wait for these stamps to become available - I've almost run out of the images I stamped from Maddy's! Enjoy your evening and thank you for visiting xxx

Charisma Cardz Challenge - Sketch

2009-03-23T12:26:00.002Z

I've been meaning to join in with the Charisma Cardz Challenge for a few weeks now and somehow never got around to it......however, this week I have and I really enjoyed using this sketch. The Gorjuss Girl is coloured with Copics, cardstock is Bazzill Bling and papers are Crate.

I deliberately kept this really simple and used a colour combo which I don't usually use. Loving the peach with blue!

Well there's things blowing all over the place today and the bad news is I have to go out now.....thanks for visiting and see you later. xxx

Basic Grey Challenge - Texture

2009-03-22T11:30:00.002Z

Another challenge I always love is the Basic Grey Challenge - didn't get chance yesterday, so here it is today! This week it's 'Texture', and I think I have quite a few different textures here with the stitching, the acetate overlay, lace, fabric square and flowers. 'Simone' from Toodle & Binks stamps is coloured with Copics and I used the exotic Basic Grey Marrakech papers...loving these colours and I'm really pleased with the result.

Thanks for looking xx

Colour Create Challenge - Navy, Turquoise and Lime

2009-03-22T10:34:00.003Z

Ooooh, I just love this colour combination so my first project today is the Colour Create Challenge....the extra twist this week is to use NO patterned paper! A challenge indeed! Thinking cap on and a look through my stamps and this one jumped out at me. I used Tombow pens to colour the flowers on the stamp, Distress Inks to colour Tilda and Prima flowers. I may have forgotten to mention that I took delivery of a Silhouette on Friday and the first results are on this card too! I'm going to have lots of fun playing with my new toy.

Happy Mothers' Day to all you mums out there - hope you have a perfect day!

I had the most gorgeous bouquet of flowers delivered yesterday from my sons, a home made keyring from James and two beautiful cards (not handmade!), and a lovely cuppa in bed this morning.

Thanks for visiting xxx

Dottie's World Challenge - Twice As Nice!

2009-03-22T01:06:00.002Z

Adele set this week's challenge at Dottie's World - 'Twice As Nice', to use at least two of the downloads on our project. I used the ever lovely Madison, coloured with Copics and the sweet little birdie image from the Animal Magic collection. We all hope you join us this week for the challenge - pop over there to see the other fabulous DT cards and hopefully be inspired!

Enjoy the rest of the weekend xxx

Sketch Saturday

2009-03-21T09:53:00.003Z

I often say how much I love sketches, and this one at Sketch Saturday today is brilliant - it can be interpreted in a really simple way for a quick card or you could go to town on all the layering. I went for something between the two........the beautiful image is coloured with Copics, papers are Crate, flowers Prima and sentiment from Craftwork Cards. I used Core'dinations cardstock, Cuttlebugging and sanding the pink layer, punched the large flowers to layer with the hydrangeas and sugar coated brads, with a few gems to finish.

Have a great weekend and enjoy the weather!

xxx

Friday Sketchers

2009-03-20T10:58:00.002Z

Not only is there a wonderful new sketch to follow at Friday Sketchers this week, but I scored double points because I made a BOY'S card - well it's double points in my book anyway! I've been using my Magnolia Spring Stamps again (all except the bee which was lying hidden in my folder), all coloured with Copics. Papers are AMM Herbanella with Bazzill cardstock cut with Nestabilities and doodling with Inkessentials white pen. There's some Glossy Accents in there too!

Another gorgeous day to enjoy - off to cut the grass now......see you later! xxx

Cute Card Thursday - Recipe

2009-03-19T12:37:00.003Z

Over at Cute Card Thursday this week, there's a recipe to follow:

"Take something ripped; 2 papers and 4 embellishments BUT there's a twist - four embellishments means ONLY four. A two-layered flower with a charm/spacer and a brad for example would count as ALL of your embellishments so choose them wisely!"

Now this was a really difficult one for me because I don't 'do' minimal, but it was a challenge and that's what it's all about right? Papers are Imaginisce, Daisy is coloured with Distress Inks, flowers are Prima and Papermania with Flowersoft in the centres (didn't even know I had any!), lace is from Hobbycraft and the sentiment is done on computer.

Just feels like there's something missing to me....thanks for looking! xxx

Stamp with Stampavie - 'Spring'

2009-03-18T12:41:00.002Z

A very appropriate challenge this week at Stamp with Stampavie, and it's 'Spring!' .... just had to use my new Spring Tilda for this and WRMK Nonsense papers. What will I do when these papers run out - I just love them!

Tilda is coloured with Copics, highlighted with Inkessentials white pen, all edges inked with Brushed Corduroy Distress Ink, a Prima flower and BG Cupcake brads.

Thanks for looking xxx

Whiff of Joy Challenge - Green!

2009-03-18T10:56:00.003Z

In celebration of St Patrick's Day yesterday, the Whiff of Joy Challenge this week is 'Green'. I decided to have a change from the Copics and went for the Ranger Distress Inks for colouring the image. Papers are a mixture of Prima and Basic Grey, the flowers and leaves were created with various punches and the sentiment is stamped. I went to town with the scissors for distressing edges, and doodled with my brown Zig pen. Ribbons are Making Memories and the brads BG Cupcake.

Thanks for visiting xxx

ABC Challenge - Flowers

2009-03-18T09:22:00.003Z

I had a lovely surprise yesterday when I received this gorgeous Toodles and Binks 'Simone' stamp in the post and couldn't wait to use it! This card fits with the ABC Challenge this week, which is 'flowers' - well, flowers appear on most of my cards anyway! Simone is coloured with Copics Y21,R59 & YG23, papers are 3 Bugs in a Rug, flowers are Prima Can-ection and the sentiment is stamped.

We have a clear blue sky, broken only by airplane vapour trails, a light breeze and the garden bursting with new life! Only one thing to spoil it all - the windows need cleaning!!!

Enjoy your day xxx

Copic Colour Challenge - Inspiration

2009-03-18T07:17:00.000Z

It's Wednesday and time for another Copic Colour Challenge, which Chris set this week, and here is the inspiration.I immediately knew I wanted to use the Madison in France image from 'Holly & Madison's World Tour', but hadn't a clue where I was going with my card, and I still haven't a clue how it turned out as it did! The colours seemed to form the biggest part of the inspiration for me and I just kind of went with the flow, adding things here and there LOL. The background is created with Distress Inks and heat embossing, various stamps, rub-ons, doodling and other bits were used and the BG Cupcake buttons to reflect Madison's boxes.

We all hope you join with the Copic Colour Challenge this week - we really enjoy seeing all your wonderful work.

Have a creative day xxx

A Spoonful of Sugar - Gems

2009-03-17T13:15:00.002Z

Went for the 'pretty' look for this card which is for this week's 'A Spoonful of Sugar' Challenge - to use gems on your project. The Gorjuss Girl is coloured with Copics, papers are Basic Grey Sultry, and there are some BG Sugared die cuts in there too. The large flower is Prima and as you can see I went to town on the gems and pearls!

Well the sun IS here now and I'm going to get in it. xx

Papertake Weekly - Feelin' Fruity!

2009-03-17T09:33:00.002Z

.....or a project featuring food is this week's challenge at Papertake Weekly. I decided to reach for the K&Co Berry Sweet for this card - and to have a go at a shaped card for a change too. It does look rather yummy...shame it's not real!

Have a super day xxx

Magnolia vs Stampavie Challenge - Mothers' Day

2009-03-16T09:17:00.003Z

How could I resist using another of the new Magnolia Spring stamps for the challenge this week at Magnolia vs Stampavie, which is to make a Mothers' Day card. I coloured Tilda with Copics, used Cosmo Cricket and My Minds Eye papers, Papermania letters with pearl hearts attached and Prima flowers.

Spring is most definately in the air, and doesn't it make you feel good! xx

Colour Create Challenge - Red and Green

2009-03-15T10:24:00.003Z

I love colour challenges and there's another fabby one today at Colour Create Challenge, to use red and green on your project with an added 'extra' to include wings! Well, I just had to use one of my new Magnolia Spring stamps for this which includes cute ladybirds. Tilda is coloured with Copics (I brought a bit of yellow in to give the Spring feel - hope that's allowed!) and the papers are K&Co Charlotte. The swirl is a Sizzix die, large flower Prima, stamped sentiment, pearl gems and felt flowers, with the ladybirds highlighted with Glossy Accents.

It's a beautiful morning here with the promise of a warm sunny day, so I think I'll get out in my garden for a bit and see what's growing!

Dottie's World Challenge - Sketch

2009-03-15T07:17:00.003Z

Karen has provided this wonderful sketch to work from this week for the Sunday Challenge at Dottie's World and not only that - there is a fabulous prize on offer this week for one lucky winner!I used the fabulous new 'Madison in the Mountains' image from 'Holly & Madison's World Tour' collection and coloured her with Copics - main colours YG23, B02 and R22.

I hope you enjoy using this sketch as much and I did - definately one to keep on file for future use!

Have a great Sunday xxx

Basic Grey Challenge - 'All Round'

2009-03-14T11:53:00.003Z

I always love working with Basic Grey and today's Basic Grey Challenge is 'All Round' - simply to have no angles on your project. So, out with the corner rounder, Mellow papers, Cupcake buttons and various BG rub-ons. The image is coloured with Distress Inks, and the brad is Dovecraft which just perfectly picks up the colours from the Mellow paper.

The sunshine has disappeared here unfortunately :-( - send it back if you have some pleeeease! xxx

Sketch Saturday

2009-03-14T10:42:00.003Z

I used the Sketch Saturday challenge to make this card for my friend Liz - the sentiment says it all really, which is why I bought the stamp and it is quite cute anyway! I wanted it bright and cheery so used DCWV Blossoms & Butterflies stack and Imaginisce rub-ons. The image is coloured with Copics and a few butterflies are sprinkled around.

Thanks for looking xxx

Back in the Craft Room and Raring to Go at 7am!?!?

2009-03-14T07:05:00.002Z

Don't know what's wrong with me this morning - must be the light and sunny morning, but I hope to play challenge catch up today! Although this card isn't for a challenge, I wanted to show it anyway because it's my absolute favourite character from the 'Animal Magic' downloads from Charmed Cards and Crafts and Louise Brigden. 'Scruff' is coloured with Copics and I used Blonde Moments papers, cutting out some of the elements and adding lots of doodling and handwritten messages.

Isn't he just adorable - and a great 'Get Well' card for a man too!

Have a great weekend - hope to have lots more to show later xxx

Happy Birthday Cute Card Thursday AND A Huge Thank You to Carmen xx

2009-03-13T09:11:00.002Z

I received the most wonderful surprise this morning when these were delived from my lovely friend Carmen in Liverpool. We 'met' several years ago on the Charmed Cards and Crafts Forum and Carmen, and in fact all the girls and boy on there have given me constant strength and support during this illness. Thank you sooooo much Carmen and to everyone else at Charmed and to my blogging pals who've sent such meaningful messages xxxxxxx I can't tell you what a boost it is to me!

Today is Cute Card Thursday's first birthday and there is a fab sketch to follow this week, so I made the team at CCT a birthday card. The papers are K&Co Lotus Tea Box, the beautiful image is coloured with copics, I've used my nesties for the shapes and cuttlebug embossing in there too, as well as Basic Grey brads, Cosmo Cricket chip letters and Prima gem swirls.

Love the look of the new CCT challenge blog too - and there's some fab prizes on offer for the celebrations.

I'm off for another chemo session now, wearing red nose of course......watch this space for a piccie if I'm brave enough!

Do something funny for money today!!!xxx

So Far So Good .....

2009-03-12T19:10:00.005Z

.....had the first chemotherapy treatment today and feel quite good so far. A little tired, but apart from that just had a lovely meal cooked by my ex DH and ate almost all of it! I used the Paxman cool cap to give myself a chance to keep my hair - no problems there either. Back to the hospital in the morning for another treatment, wearing my red nose of course, then three weeks off! Woohoo!!!
Hoping to stay awake for the Comic Relief Kilimanjaro and Apprentice programmes tonight *yawn #45,788*

Oh, and here's a card I made a while ago which I haven't yet shown for some reason, so today's the day! Pink Gem stamp, coloured with Distress Inks and I think the papers are K&Co.

Have a great evening - the weekend is just round the corner!
xxx