Look on the brightside

Hey! Back in blogland.

2009-09-15T11:33:00.003+01:00

I've had 6 months off from blogland, actually some might say 6 months off from more than that, but it's time for me to get back into it. So I've re-jigged my blog and will be posting twice a week photos of my makes aswell as the goings on in my barmy life.

Snow Day!

2009-02-02T20:09:00.004Z

Wow! How fab has the snow been today? It looks so peaceful and calm when it's snowed but it causes so much havoc. There was no school for Faye today and no after school club for Leah so I finished early to collect her from school. We got changed straight away and took the dog and the sledge to the wood for an hour.

I gave Leah lessons on building a snowman (rolling big snowballs) and made a head that big that i couldn't lift it on top of his bloody body!
I bet there are huge snowballs left instreets all over the place, you know like that artist (Andy somebody). The kids in our street have done it. Not sure if it was in the name of art though...

I made this card just before Chrsitmas for my lovely friend Linz' birthday. Let me know if you want a supply list.

Hope your snow day was as good as mine.

Lou x

Here are my babes.....

2009-01-30T19:38:00.005Z

.....and the reasons I get distracted from crafting!

These were taken in Whitby during the Chrsitmas break.

This is Spence on one of our trots around Fryston Wood.

These are some tags I've made to put in the Folksy shop I haven't set up yet.

Do you know what? I've really been fancying doing some sewing just lately. I bought the 4th issue of Sew Hip today and NEED to buy vintage fabrics. I'm going to trawl the charity shops in Pontefract tomorrow and car boot on Sunday. I've got ideas to stamp on Calico but haven't got any and need to research what ink I can stamp on fabric with. do you know you can make a tote bag out of a pillowcase? How fab is that? I NEED to make one. Of course I'll post the results. My only worry is that my sewing machine chews up the thread underneath the fabric which really tests my patience. Iv'e asked Ed to service said sewing machine but don't think he's interested.

Anyway enjoy your weekend lovelies.

Lou x

Short and sweet

2009-01-29T07:05:00.004Z

Here's another 3 cards using all Stampin' Up! products.

Thanks for looking.

Lou x

Long time no see..

2009-01-27T06:54:00.007Z

I think I could get an award for the worst ever blogger or even be entered into the World's Guiness Book of Records for bad blogging. When I make plans to blog every week or every few days I just never get around to it. So, I'm not saying when I'm goin to blog next, or make promises to do it every week/day then I might get around to it a bit sooner than I have been.
Stampin' Up! have a Sale-A-Bration on at the moment. During Sale-A-Bration, 1 January to 28 February, Stampin' Up! will give customers, hostesses, and new recruits the opportunity to earn FREE, stamp sets, only avauilable through Sale-A-Bration time.

When customers spend £45 on Stampin' Up! merchandise, you'll receive a free Sale-A-Bration reward. There's no limit--for every £45 you spend, you can select another free Sale-A-Bration set.

When you host a workshop of at least £300 (before shipping), you'll receive a free Sale-A-Bration reward as well as all the usual hostess benefits! So book with me NOW!!!

Any one joining Stampin' Up! as a new demonstrators during Sale-A-Bration time can choose any stamp set upto the value of £38.95 from the current Idea Book and Catalogue. You don't have to be a business demonstrator, you can join just so you get a fab discount on SU products like I do really.
Click here to see the Sale-A-Bration brochure online and view supplies for projects in the Sale-A-Bration brochure here.

Ok, so here's a couple of little cards I've made at the weekend. The photos arent that clear though, sorry will try to fix . They looked ok when I uploaded them.
This one is actually on a black card base but you can't see that!

I've made a batch of these and am going to put them on ebay and folksy. Going to have to sort the photos out first though! They are little shabby embellishments made from MM Uncle Sam papers and buttons and shabbied up.

The little box and love notes have been made with a template from Papertrey Ink. I've made another that I will show on another post.

Again all products are Stampin Up!

Bye for now!

Lou xx

Quick post

2008-12-18T23:26:00.003Z

Hi, just photos today due to tummy bug! Loads more to follow when I'm feeling better.

Take care

Lou x

I found my camera!!

2008-12-12T07:39:00.004Z

I really quick post of some cards I did the night before last. They were so quick. I used the Season of Joy set with Creamy caramel card stock, White and Real Red ink and 1 1/38" and 1 1/14" circle punches and twine. Yum!
More Christmas cards to post as soon as I can (probably over the weekend).
Lou x

2008-12-02T19:51:00.001Z

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2008-12-02T19:15:00.002Z

I've been terrible at posting lately, I am just so busy at the moment.So a big thank you to everyone still coming by to check out my blog on the off chance I've got my act together and posted. I have an additional problem now in that I can't find my cameras, which, as you can imagine, makes it difficult to post photos of what I have been making. I am such an air head.
Not very seasonal but here's a photo of my completed Seaside/Summer mini book I made at Carol's last time I was there.
I'm there agian on Saturday and really looking forward to it.
I'm sticking to the diet (ish) and have been running 6 days out of 7 so am feeling a bit healthier. I've really cut down on my alcohol intake, which was grim. I'm getting measured and weighed tomorrow and know I've lost 4 lbs so far.
As far as I know there are no offers for December from SU yet. There is however a beauty for January/February. I'll keep you posted.
Take care everyone
Lou x

FREE stamp sets!!

2008-11-11T19:22:00.002Z

‘Tis the Season to Host
This Christmas season, host a qualifying Stampin’ Up! workshop, and get a free gift!

From 1 November through 31 December, when you host a workshop totalling £150 or more, you’ll get a FREE stamp set from the selection below, in addition to the already wonderful hostess benefits.

Wondrous Gift on page 17 normally £19.95

Snow Flurries on page 20 normally £9.95

Friendly on page 56 normally £14.95

Seasonal Wishes on page 60 normally £15.95

Dotted Autumn on page 91 normally £12.95

Cold Play on page91 normally £24.95

Make your Christmas season merry and bright! Email me for more details

Stampin' Up! November Offer

2008-11-11T18:52:00.002Z

Rub on some happiness!

From 10th November to 30th November there is 20% off Rub-Ons and Textured Cardstock when you spend £20 on any Stampin' Up! products.

113659 p77 Hidden Garden Blossoms rub ons £6.00

113660 p77 Cherished Memories rub ons £6.00

113634 p68 Bold Brights 12 x 12 textured card £7.40

113635 p68 Earth elements 12 x 12 textured card £7.40

113636 p69 Rich regals 12 x 12 textured card £7.40

113637 p69 Soft subtles 12 x 12 textured card £7.40

113638 p67 Neutrals 12 x 12 textured card £7.40

So, stock up on textured 12 x12 card stock! It's great value and works out at 30p a sheet. It looks and feels just like Bazzill.

If you would like to receive FREE P&P on top of these offers or anyhting else from the current catalogue please let me have your order and payment for Thursady 21st November. Products will be received the following week. Email me for details.

A quickie!

2008-11-06T07:09:00.003Z

How did your bonfire night go? Good I hope.

Here's a quick post with some photos of cards I have made with the a Stamp set from the new Stampin' Up! Catalgoue. Details to folow as I'm late for work!!

Lou x

Happy Monday

2008-11-03T07:10:00.005Z

I can't believe it's Monday already. Where did the weekend go? Half of my weekend was spent feeling sorry for myseld lying on the settee with a hangover. Doh! That's it now, I'm never drinking again (until next weekend). I do need to be a bit healthier than I have been lately though, so it's back on Weight Watchers and back in to running again from today. Might even track it on here so if anyone wants to join me......

I took photos of the cards I'd made over the last 2 months on Friday to post on here so will get a few up each day if I can. Since I last posted saying I'd lost my Mojo I've been crafting like mad!! It's great how a bit of inspiration and a sketch can do that for you.

I've made my December Daily Album after checking this post out by the fabulous Ali Edwards. It's a record of the lead upto christmas completed each day with either journalling or a photo. I liked the idea and have made mine with bits that I already had in. I din't buy anything to make it. It was quite theraputic and i was like a mad thing trying to finish it on Fraidy night. There was no way I was going to bed until I finished it. So at nearly 1am I fell into bed with inky fingers and gluestuck to my arm but happy my Daily December album was ready. Carol this is definately one for you.

Right, I need to go and feed my kids and get ready for work. See you tomorrow with more photos.

Louise x

Stampin' Write Marker Club

2008-10-30T08:22:00.002Z

Would you like to own the full set of Stampin' Write Markers? Great for colouring stamped images, using as ink to stamp images, use with Aqua Painters, paint brushes, Blender Pens or just on they're own.

I am organising a Stampin' Write Marker Club that will enable us to own the full set plus more and FREEBIES!!!! The club consits of 4 members who will commit to 4 months. Each month each member will pay £40 and in return they will rec a package of goodies worth lots more!

This is how it works-

We have 4 members for 4 months who each pay £40 each month.
Each month, each member receives one set of Stampin' Write Markers, a pack of one colour family cardstock and one reel of ribbon.
Each month one member will receive a Level 1 Hostess Set
Another member will receive £15 to spend in the catalogue
And another member will receive the storage box for the markers
FREE P&P on any other items ordered within the 4 months

At the end of the 4 months each member will have received-

A full set of Stampin' Write Markers with storage case
4 Assorted Cardstock packs (one of each colour family)
A reel (13.7m) of 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon, A reel (13.7m) of 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon, A reel (9.1m) 1" Ribbon and a reel(9.1m) of Taffeta Ribbon.
A Free Hostess set
£15 to spend in the catalogue
Free P&P on any other items ordered

It is as simple as that! This club enables you to build a collection of Stampin'Up! products over 4 months but only paying out a reasonable amount at a time.

I am currently looking for 1 member but if there is more interested I will start another group of 4. We are looking to start in November. If you are interested in joining please email me l-edwards9@sky.com

Has anyone seen.....

2008-10-30T07:33:00.004Z

...my MOJO? It's gone AWOL! I have done a bit of creating but they are all cased projects. There's not really much I can call my own. I've taken a weeks leave to be off with my girls this week and have done these few bits and my MOJO is gradually coming back.I've been a bit stressed(for a change)and am working full time so haven't got as much time to craft even if the ideas were flowing. Even the delivery of new stamp sets hasn't managed to get me going. I have stroked them lots and ooo'd and ahh'd over them though. I have eventually used them on these cards and am happy with the end results.

To help I've used some inspirational sketches. This one is Mojo Monday sketch 58.

Supplies: All SU (unless otherwise stated)

Stamps: Crazy For cupcakes, Circle of Freindship

Cardstock and Papers: Whisper White base, Pink Passion,. Summer Fun, Only Orange, Regal Rose

Ink: Basic Gray

Accessories: Scallop Edge Punch, Scallop Circle Punch, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, 1 1/4" Circle Punch Non SU Ribbons, Stickles

The next one using the same supplies and Stamp set uses a sketch from Cats Pyjamas Designer Team Member Leigh. I have embossed the whole image with crystal clear embossing powder so it's super sparkly. I've coloured the images using my Watercolour pencils.

This one is a complete case of a card by Beate for Ed's Mum's birthday on Friday. (snigger at Mother in Law's birthday on Halloween!!)

Supplies: All SU! unless otherwise stated

Stamps:Pocket Shilloettes, Cheers and Wishes, Season of Joy

Cardstock:Old Olive, choc Chip, Bordering Blue, Whipser White

Ink:Basic Gray, Bordering Blue

Accessories:Choc Chip Double Stitched Ribbon,Rhinestone Brads, White Signo Pen, Nestabilities oval die, Woodware large Scallop Circle punch, Flower Punch, Ticket punch, Coluzzle, Non SU! Watercolour pencils,

I've got a few more bits to show you that I'll upload tomorrow using some of the new sets and papers from the new catalogue. I feel a bit more inspired now I've shown you those!

Bye for Now

Lou x

P.S. Look at these gorgeous little bundles of gorgeousness. They're my sisters new additions to the family. A pair of Jugs! Cross between a Pug and a Jack Russell. Coco and Alfie. Spencer tolerates them but is not that keen because they keep biting his nose! Bless him.

2008-10-12T22:06:00.002+01:00

Sorry I've not been around lately. My compueter has been hijacked by some clever $~%*&$ and I've had to have the whole thing wiped, passwords changed on all accounts etc. Aren't some people very sad? Anyway been taking photos so will post at first chance.
Lou xxx

I am a bad blogger!!!!!!

2008-09-23T07:17:00.004+01:00

I can't believe 2 weeks have passed since I last posted. You know what they say 'Time flies when you are having fun!' Well I can't say that I've been having loads of fun but things are certainly mostly good at the moment. To be honest I've lost my Mojo for crafting. I started doing a Halloween mini album and that's when my Mojo went AWOL. I can't do Halloween. It's a bit like I used to be with cards for men. I have a gorgeous new set from SU from the new catalogue that is lovely for men 'For Father'. Not actually made any cards yet but I do have an idea in my head. Here's a sneak peak
It's in the new catalogue that should be landing on my doormat any time now.

I had been doing a lot of Christmas makes before my Mojo went in preparation for the October workshop. Here's a peak of a project I am working on using another of the new sets from the new SU catalogue 'Season of Joy'. Scrumptious! The colours are not great on these photos. Took them this morning while I had time but there wasn't much daylight!

Have fun!

Lou x

Summer Mini Book

2008-09-07T16:27:00.004+01:00

I went to Carol's yesterday and had a lovely afternoon. Carol organised for us to make a mini paper bag book with a Summer theme. Carol supplied some lovely mini paper bags and had lots of summery themed stamps, dies etc on hand for us to use. I'd had a look at what photos I've not scrapped yet(loads) and decided to make my book about last years holiday in Alcudia. My printer is not well so I couldn't print out the photos i needed but got the gist of the colours etc I would need.
This is my end product!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

I only got half way through at carol's but couldn't stop when I got home and finished it last night. I'll post photos again of the completed book with photos and journalling when my printer is working again.

Thanks Carol I had a fab time again.

Lou x

Supplies Used:

Stamps: Hero Arts -moments, Family

Paper: Sandylion DP, SU Cardstock -Certainly Celry, So Saffron, Bashful Blue, Regal Rose, Bazzill

Ink: SU -Taken with Teal, Versamark,

Accessories: 3 4" paperbags, Sizzix and Quickutz dies, Prima Flowers, Buttons, Paper Yarn and Ribbons, MM Hardware, rub ons and stickers, Shrink plastic, SU Tab punch, Cuttlebug Embossing folders, SU Stampin write marker.

Rain rain go away!

2008-09-02T22:48:00.005+01:00

How much more rain can we have? I'm waterlogged now and it's affecting my dog walking routine. Never mind I guess I'm indoors more and get to craft more (remember Look on the Bright side!)
Any way I' made these two cards the week before last. I have seen them somewhere on a blog or gallery but not sure where.
I masked off an area on a piece of Whisper White card stock. I used Garden Green chalk to colour in the unmasked area then daubed a bit of Garden Green ink around the edges. This was then matted on Garden green card stock and put on the base card. I used one of the stamps out of the retiring hostess set - Oh, so lovely in Close to Cocoa just on the left edge of the chalked area. I added Chocolate chip Taffeta (Yum yum), added a greeting and Bob's your Uncle! a really quick and easy card that could be used for loads of occasions and would look good in different colours too.

I added a Sizzlet photo corner to this one.

If you have a go at this technique post a link to a photo of it on your blog or public gallery so we can all have a look. I'm going to have a go in oranges and yellows next I think.

Come on Linz and carol it's a challenge!!!

Happy crafting!

Louise x

My next workshops details are in the left side bar.

The Retirement List is up!

2008-09-02T07:22:00.005+01:00

Hi Crafters!
The new Stampin' Up! catalogue is being realeased on 1st October, so to make way for all those lovely new products we have to say goodbye to some of the ones in the current catalogue.These products will only be available while stocks last. So if you want any don't hang about ordering them! The list can be found here.
Good news! The prices have been evaluated for the new catalogue and some items have been reduced in price. EG. Designer papers will be £7.75 and were £8.50. The new prices have been taken into account for the Retirement List, so grab yourself a bargain!
Bye for now!

louise x

Another Paper Bag Book

2008-08-29T07:37:00.003+01:00

I love these papers from MM. Have had them ages- they've always been to good to use! You know that feeling?!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Happy Crafting!

Louise x

Wonderful moments mini Book

2008-08-27T08:38:00.003+01:00

Here's one of the mini books I've made. It's similar to the other moments one I posted last week but different! I'll put another on Friday.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

More cards!

2008-08-27T07:42:00.003+01:00

Hello again!
Just posting a few more cards I've made recently.

This first one is made using the Loads of love stamp set. I really love this set. I originally thought it would be great for male cards, but I think it's fab for more girly cards too, like this one.
I used the colour combo So Saffron, Cameo Coral and Only Orange.

The colours haven't come out to good on this next one. I made this one for this challenge on ILWS.

It's hard to see from this photo but the base of the card is actually Bashful Blue. I used All the Best retired set and clear embossed it onto Basic Black cardstock. Matted it a few times and added Chocolate Chip taffeta ribbon and the sentiment.

A non Stampin' Up! stamp next. This was a sketch challenge on a blog somwhere, sorry can't remember where though. I've coloured the image and layered him up and added the sentiment from the Cheers and wishes set. The card stock is Creamy Caramel and Certainly Celery. There's some MM paper there too. I also used the Cuttlebug swirls embossing folder too.Happy crafting peeps!

2008-08-25T21:25:00.004+01:00

I had a lovely day at the craft fair at the National Coal Mining Museum, Wakefield on Saturday. It was unusually quite but I met some lovely people. I did a door prize draw and the winner is Mrs E Bromby who has won £10 to spend in the Stampin Up! catalogue. Congratulations! Your prize will be posted out to you tomorrow. Thanks to everyone else who took part.

I made these super quick cards last week. I just love the spiral punch. I've used creamy caramel and Bashful Blue card stock for the base of the cards. I cut a small piece of Whisper White and used the spiral punch along the top edge. The Circle of Friendship stamps were stamped in Close to Cocoa and punched out with the 1" circle punch. Then more layers were cut using the 1 3/8" circle punch, 1 1/4" circle punch and Scallop circle punch. Dimensionals were used to pop these and then added to the card. Some Bashful Blue Taffeta ribbon was added and voila, done! Piece of cake. I did these in lots of other colour combos too. Old Olive and Real Red, Pretty in Pink and Creamy Caramel, Certainly celery and creamy Caramel. I think these would make a great card to demonstrate.

I'm having problems uploading today and unfortunately this is the only one I can get to upload. will keep trying as I have stacks to show you!

Happy crafting!

Lou xx

Busy busy!

2008-08-21T07:35:00.003+01:00

Sorry I haven't posted for a while. I've been busy with the school holidays, my lush new job and preparing for a craft fair on Saturday at the National Coal mining Museum, Wakefield. I''ve crafted my socks off so should have plenty to show you. I'll try and post Saturday night or definately Sunday with mini books, stationary sets, and of course cards! I've also not had an August workshop so promise an extra special September one to celebrate the new catalogue and National Cardmaking Week. Details to follow.
Take care everyone.
Happy Crafting
Lou x

Mini Book Madness!

2008-08-09T22:40:00.007+01:00

I challenged Linz to make a Magnolia mini book about a month ago. She's totally mad on Magnolia stamps, so her challenge last time we met up for a crafting sesh was to make a mini book. I've not scrapped for over a year now and I can't remember the last mini book I made so I made one myself. There's hardly any stamping in it. It's mainly MM papers and embellies and Cuttlebug die cuts and embossing folders.

I enjoyed making this one so much I've rustled up another today. A Princess mini book.linz and Carol were set tasks last week when we met at Carol's and they said i had to do a Princess mini book so here it is!

Supplies again are MM papers and embellies, SU! cardstock, cuttlebug embossing folders and die cuts .

Stampin Up have joined forces with Sizzix and an exclusive range of dies are going to be available to Stampin Up customers soon. Yum yum!

Take care
Lou x

Buy 3 and get 1 FREE!

2008-08-06T07:20:00.003+01:00

The offer from Stampin' Up in August is - Buy 3 12" x 12" Designer Paper sets and get a fourth pack FREE!

That's a saving of £8.50. WOW!

Each set has 12 double sided sheets. There are 2 sheets each of 6 designs. Each pack is £8.50, so for 4 packs it would be £25.50 +p&p, that works out at an amazing 53p per sheet. The quality is fab as always,and the designs and colours all coordinate perfectly with the stamp sets and colour families of the cardstock and ink pads.

The paper sets are on page 72 and 73 in the catalogue or here in the online catalogue.

Please email me if you would like to place an order.

This offer ends 31st August 2008

Nearly finished!!

2008-07-31T14:05:00.004+01:00

I challenged a few friends to make a mini book in two weeks.

Mines nearly done. It's going to be a paper bag book, cos I've not done one in ages. I've used MM papers and die cut flowers and lots of ink. More details to follow with the finished item photos.

I've done 8 pages. Just need to stick them into book, make front and back covers and make some inserts for the bags.

and the winner is.............................

2008-07-27T17:32:00.004+01:00

Lindsey Williamson

Linz has won the blog candy I had up for grabs to celebrate the hits on my blog!

My little helper Leah picked Lindsey's name out of a hat.

Your Candy is on it's way to you Linz. Enjoy!

Two quickies here to show you. Because I am the super efficient and organised person I am I had to spruce up two bottles of wine for the girls teachers at 8am on Friday morning! So I basically made two tags to tie on to the bottles! I did make a 2,4,6,10 box for one. It didn't go too well but was ok. Unfortunately Faye forgot to take it with her so I drank Mr Rollinson's bottle last night! I did have plans (as always) to mkae a little gift album or similar forthe two teachers but didn't get around to it. All teachers love wine anyway don't they?!

Anyway, I'm off. It's too hot to be inside.

Bye for now.

Lou x

Busy Weekend!

2008-07-20T21:59:00.005+01:00

I've had quite a busy weekend. firstly on Friday night I had a lovely night with Linz, Carol, Cath, Yvonne, Joanne, Leah and Lynn at a workshop at my house. It was lovely to see everyone. I've been totally inspired and have started a mini album in citrus colours hopefullt to be finished later this week. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with it yet. Will definately be selling it but not sure where yet. (thinking aloud here)! I've been listing some more old non SU! Stamps and craft bits on Ebay today, check it out and grab yourself a bargain!!!

Anyway, we have been thinking about getting a dog for a while now. So, on Saturday we decided to visit a couple of kennels. It was so upsetting to see so many dogs needing homes. We visited the Dogs Trust in Leeds and we all fell in love with 15 month old Spencer, a Patterdale terrier. We took him out for a walk and he is just so lovely that we decided to adopt him!!! We should be able to bring him home with us on Friday. We've walked him again today and he is just full of character and really obedient.

Here he is-

I've just ordered the Tailgating standard wheel to make dog announcement cards to send out!!!

Here's a card I did really quickly last week in my favourite colours of the week - Taken with Teal (Yum), Close to Cocoa (Yum Yum) and Creamy Caramel (Yum Yum Yum).It's the Seeing Spots set randomly stamped across the centre of a 5x5 card front. The corners were softened with a corner rounder. The sentiment is from the Cheers and Wishes set. I used a Creamy Caramel Water Colour crayon and wet it with a paint brush for the smallest stamp that's just visible, then flicked it on to the cardstock for a speckled effect. We were shown this technique at the Leeds SU! Expereince tour.We did something similar to this for the Make and take on Friday night.

This is another quick one from this week. I used the Time for a tree roller and coloured using pencils and Odourles thinners. I matted this on not Quite Navy C/S and ran the Whisper White card base through the Cuttlebug Snowflake embossing folder. My first Christmas card fof the year! Beter get a move on and do more!

Don't forget to comment on the thread below to take part in my BLOG CANDY GIVEAWAY!!!!

Take care

Lou x

FREEBIES!!!!!!!!!

2008-07-18T09:55:00.007+01:00

To celebrate my blog getting to 1000 hits, Woohoo! I am going to giveaway some Blog Candy Yay! I have made a Stampin Up! Soft Subtles bundle. There is an A5 sheet of cardstock in each of the 12 colours in the Soft Subtles colour Family plus Very Vanilla and Whisper White. Brads, buttons and ribbons. I have also stamped up a sheet of images from the Simply Said set in , you've guessed it .....Soft Subtles!

All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning the candy, is leave a comment to this post and I will randomly pick a winner next Friday at 4pm.

Staying with the SoftSubtles colour family , here's a card I made for the inspiration challenge on In love with Stamping froum ITC1. The bird is from the little Spring Fling set.

I did this card yesterday for a friend who wanted a 5oth Anniversary card. I've raised the people on the stamped image on dimensionals. I don't usually do mettalic but i quite like the waxy stuuf i rubbed on the cuttlebug embossed background. I got it free with a magazine years ago and have no idea what it is! The set is summer by the sea and Cheers and Wishes.

I've got a workshop at mine tonight with some of my crafting buddies and I'm looking forward to that. Also going to have a look around some rescue kennels for a little dog at the weeekend. So hopefully going to have a lovely weekend.

Hope you have agood one too.

Lou x

2008-07-14T21:20:00.006+01:00

The first photo for tonight is of another of the cards I made, a few weeks ago, to go in the box shown in the pic. It uses the rose in the Mixed Bouquet set. I've layered it up and curled the edges to give it dimension. I used the Sanded background stamps for the background, tied a bit of ribbon around and that's about it. The ink is Regal Rose.

This second photo was inspired by a tag and candle set I saw on SCS gallery. It uses the Pretty Posy hostess set.

Stampin Up! are getting to grips with the advertising and have a couple of promotions in the pipeline. Later this month, Crafts Beautiful will run an exclusive PolyBag promotion through Tesco supermarket stores. The promotion bag will include a complimentary 2007-2008 Idea Book and Catalogue.

Prima magazine will feature four months of editorial coverage about Stampin' Up!, commencing with the August issue. There will also be five months of editorial coverage (from July to November) on Prima’s allaboutyou web site.

***To celebrate my blog having 1000 hits (900 are probably mine)! I have organised some Stampin Up! BLOG CANDY. I will post pics and details tomorrow night.

I've got an award!!!!

2008-07-12T09:57:00.004+01:00

Wow! I've got my first Blog award!

Thanks Abi.

Abi's Blog

The rules for this award are:
1. The winner can put the logo on their blog.
2. Link the person you received your award from.
3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs.
4. Put links to these blogs on yours.
5. Leave a message on the blogs you have nominated.

So I'm going to give awards to:

1. http://lindseywilliamson.blogspot.com/

2 http://cazamataz.blogspot.com/

3. htt p://reneevs.blogspot.com/

4. http://mypaperprojects.blogspot.com/

5. http://craftystorage.blogspot.com/

6. http://michellescraftypaper.typepad.com/

7. http://justgivemestamps.typepad.com/

check them all out and let me know what you think

will be back later to post a photo

Lou x

Boxes

2008-07-09T07:27:00.007+01:00

I've had a bit of a thing for making boxes lately. Here's some of my collection!

Most have cards to match inside. I especially like the the YoYo yellow one with the Sanded background stamp on it in Chocolate Chip.

I've finshed the box but need to make a few more matching cards for this one. The papers and Stamp Set are both Cutie Pie.

I'm having a workshop at my house next Friday 18th July 7-10pm. I'm demonstrating a variety of punches and water colour wonder crayons plus other colouring techniques. Everyone is welcome, so if you are interested in coming please contact me for my address. I'm doing a Prize draw and there will be prizes for booking a party on the night plus other one off offers just for that night only.

Blog Candy

2008-07-07T08:09:00.003+01:00

For the chance to win some gorgeous blog candy hop over to this very talented lady's (Ila) blog and leave a comment. Then take a peak at her gorgeous creations!
Louise x

Water Colour Wonder crayons

2008-07-07T07:34:00.006+01:00

Hello again!

Here's a card I made for my Mum's birthday on Saturday. There's a tutorial on SCS here to make the spring card. I used Earth Elements Water Colour Wonder Crayons directly on to the stamp, then added a little water with a paint brush to give the water colour effect. We were shown this technique at the Stampin' Up! experience tour last week. I think it looks great with this stamp set - Mixed Bouquet.

Thanks for looking.

Louise x

Cupcake Tower

2008-07-06T08:32:00.006+01:00

It was my Mum's 60th Birthday yesterday and we had a bit of a party at her house to celebrate. With a lot of help from Leah, my youngest daughter, we cobbled this together!

I made these two cards last week, inbetween baking 80 cupcakes, in my fave colours at the moment - Chocolate Chip, Bashful Blue, Very Vanilla and Close to Cocoa. Mmm, sounds good enough to eat!

The stamp set is the Level 1 hostess set Pretty Posy. The punches are Scallop Circle and 13/8" circle. All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Have loads more to post. Will try and upload more this week.

Make and takes

2008-07-03T21:23:00.005+01:00

Here's the make and takes we did at the Leeds Stampin' Up! Expereince tour on Monday night.

Double pocket card

2008-07-03T07:01:00.007+01:00

I hope everyone had a great night on Monday at the Stampin' Up! expereince tour. I know I did! Can't wait for the next, especially if it's going to be as close as Leeds. I'll post pics of the lovely make and takes later today.

I've been busy in my craft room again this week, I even give it a good tidy up on Sunday and it's looking lovely now!

My first photo is a double pocket card that I have used as a money wallet.

The two pockets inside are envelopes cut down to size.

I cut two cards and added a round tab punch to each and a strap to one to hold the money in.

The card is held closed with a 'clasp' made by layering up a 1", 1 3/8", 1 1/14" circles and a scallop circle mounted on a dimensional.

I've used Green Galore and Tempting Turquoise card stock, Taken with Teal ink pad, Seeing spots and Circle of Freindship stamp sets. All supplies Stampin' Up!

Please visit this ladies blog for a video tutorial of how to make this card. http://dawnsstampingthoughts.typepad.com/dawns_stampin_studio/

Bye for now

Lou x

In Love with Stamping

2008-06-20T07:04:00.006+01:00

There's a new website and forum for Stampin' Up! demonstrators and customers called in love with stamping. It's really good and worth a visit or 5! Click here to visit

I've got some free time today for a bit of crafting so I'm going to get on with some of SCS challenges for this week.

I'm having problems with my camera so I'm uploading a few cards I did earlier in the year. All supplies are Stampin up! If you need more info please contact me

Thanks for looking again.

Lou x

I'm so excited that people are looking at my blog and can't beleive the counter is upto 800 already. I'm planning a giveaway for when I get to 1000 posts. More details to follow.

eScape workshop

2008-06-19T07:45:00.004+01:00

Put down the phone, turn off the computer, and break free from the ‘e’!Remember when you got letters in your letterbox instead of your inbox? This month, unplug, unwind, and reconnect with your friends and loved ones through handmade cards. eScape with Stampin’ Up!Connect with your "wireless network" by attending or hosting an eScape event. Take advantage of the 25% discount on select products when you purchase the eScape bundle, and create that special message from the heart.

I am hosting a workshop to celebrate eScape

on Sunday 22nd June 2008

from 11am until 3pm

at my house in Castleford, West Yorkshire

The Make and take(class)will be a small box containing 4 love notes using the Circle of Friendship Set.

I will be demonstrating the coloured pencil and Sansador technique (instructions, templates and some freebies to take away too)

There will be a prize draw, challenges and the chance to look at Stampin Up! products and samples and to place an order.

There's a small charge of £5 per person which includes a light lunch and refreshments.

Booking essential.

Email me for more details or to book your place.

Stampin Up! have created a bundle to celebrate eScape

Bundle includes

Love notes assortment

Circle of Freindship Stamp

Set 1 1/4" Circle Punch

The bundle price is £28.39

with a saving of 25% of the catalogue price.

If you would like to order please email me.

Please check out other Promotions in the left hand coloumn under June Promotions .

Stampin Up! Open Night in Leeds

2008-06-16T22:24:00.003+01:00

Hi
Stampin' Up! are having an Open night at The village Hotel, Headingley, Leeds on 30th June 7-9pm.
There's going to make and takes, demonstrations and prize draws. There will be the chance to learn more about Stampin Up! and becoming a demo if you're interested. It's all free!
If you are interested in coming along, I'll be there with a few of my crafting buddies, please let me know and I'll send you an invitation which will be used to enter you into the prize draw. It should be a good night!
Lou x

Baby Cards

2008-06-15T18:04:00.006+01:00

I'm still trying to upload more of the cards I've been making over the last few months, so here are a few Baby cards I've made using the Bundle of Joy Stamp set. The elephant on the last card is from a different set - Year after Year.

I'm not going to add the supplies for them. Most supllies are from Stampin' Up! If you would like to know more please let me know and I'll be only to happy to help!

Thanks for looking.

Lou x

Fathers Day creations!

2008-06-15T17:30:00.004+01:00

Just showing what I made for my Dad for Fathers Day. I followed a tutorial from SCS to make the hanging box to go on the bottle of wine. I put in a couple of Caramacs (Dad's favourite) but have eaten them as I'm not seeing him until Wednesday!!! The image on the box is from my new set Loads of love and coloured using the Watercolour Wonder crayons.

I made the card at the Stampin' Up! field training event in lincoln last month it was one of the make and takes.

The tiny takeaway box is stamped up with seeing spots set in close to cooca ink. Lush!

Just heard about another promotion from Stampin' Up! for this month. Anyone signing up as a demonstrator gets to choose a free stamp set upto the value of £41.95 from the current catalogue aswell as the usual starter kit. Wow! If anyone is interested in becoming a demo for STampin'Up! please email me for more info.

Summer by the Sea

2008-06-12T07:38:00.006+01:00

The next 4 cards were created using Stampin Up! set Summer by the Sea and Earth Elemnts Water Colour Wonder Crayons. The crayons are just lovley to use. I'm really impressed with them.

All Supplies Stampin' Up!

Card 1 - Cheers and Wishes stamp set, Always Artichoke, Mellow Moss, Very Vanilla cardstock, Chocolate chip ink pad, Soft Subtles brad, Very Vanilla 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon.

Card 2 - Cheers and Wishes Stamp set the stem from the Mixed Bouquet stamp set (for Background), Always Artichoke, Mellow Moss,

Very Vanilla Cardstock, Chocolate chip Ink Pad, Jumbo Pewter Eyelets, Distressing tool, Certainley Celery Grosgrain 5/8" Ribbon.

Card 3 - Cheers and Wishes stamp set, Very Vanilla, Old Olive cardstock, Certainly Celery 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon.

Card 4_ Night of Navy, Brocade Blue, Whisper White, Creamy Caramel cardstock, Basic Black ink Pad, Pewter Jumbo Eyelets, soft Subtles Brads, Bashful Blue Taffeta ribbon, Distressing tool.

More Edwin and Tilda

2008-06-12T07:19:00.004+01:00

another 3 cards I made with Linz' new Magnolia stamps. I coloured these in with the Stampin' Up! Water Colour Wonder Crayons. Lush!!

Supplies-

Card 1 - SU - Petals Jumbo wheel, Barely Banana, Regal rose, Very Vanilla cardstock, Versamark ink pad and pastels, Water colour Wonder Crayons, Ribbon from Fairytale pack, 1 3/8 Circle Punch, Scallop Circle Punch.

Cards 2 & 3 - Petals Jumbo wheel, Very Vanilla cardstock, Certainley Celery Ink pad, Versamark ink pad, Pastels, Water colour Wonder Crayons, Terrific Tags (hostess) set, Tag Punch, Certainly Celery Designer Paper. Other - Brown paper, Twine.

Edwin and Tilda

2008-06-12T07:02:00.004+01:00

Here's the cards I made on Saturday using Linz' new Magnolia stamps and coloured using Stampin Up! Water Colour Wonder Crayons.

All supplies are Stampin Up! unless otherwise stated.

Card 1 -Vanilla love notes, chocolate chip ink, Earth Elements Water Colour Wonder Crayons, Summer by the sea stamp set (greeting), Certainly Celery Designer paper.

Card 2 - Chocolate Chip ink, Earth Elements Water Colour Crayons, Terrific Tags Hostess set, Tag punch, Tempting Turquoise, Barely banana, Vanilla cardstock. Other: Brown paper and textured cream cardstock.

Card 3 - Chocolate Chip Ink, Earth Elemants Water Colour Wonder Crayons, Regal Rose cardstock, Tag Punch, Polka dots and Paisley Stamp set (polka dot background and greeting) Other - Prima flowers, brown cardstock, Cream Stazon ink, MM Eyelet, button and brad, Cropodile, Fiskars decorative scissors

I'm back!!!!

2008-06-10T07:02:00.006+01:00

I'm back from my hols now. We had two fantastic weeks in Rhodes for my friends wedding.
I went to Carol's on Saturday which kicked started me back into crafting. I stamped off a few of Linz' new Magnolia stamps and will post later what I made.
I've got loads to upload to here. I've got most of the ironing and washing done from the hols so might get time tonight to post some more.

There's a few really good promotions on at the moment from Stampin Up! If you're interested please email me for more info or to order.

The first one is E-scape-

Put down the phone, turn off the computer, and break free from the ‘e’!
Remember when you got letters in your letterbox instead of your inbox? This month, unplug, unwind, and reconnect with your friends and loved ones through handmade cards. eScape with Stampin’ Up!
Connect with your "wireless network" by attending or hosting an eScape event. Take advantage of the 25% discount on select products when you purchase the eScape bundle, and create that special message from the heart.

The event I am hosting is

on Sunday 22nd June 2008

from 11am until 3pm

at my house in Castleford, West Yorkshire

The Make and take(class)will be a small box containing 4 love notes using the Circle of Friendship Set.

I will be demonstrating the coloured pencil and Sansador technique (instructions, templates and some freebies to take away too)

There will be a prize draw, challenges and the chance to look at Stampin Up! products and samples and to place an order.

There's a small charge of £5 per person which includes a light lunch and refreshments.

Booking essential.

Email me for more details or to book your place.

Stampin Up! have created a bundle to celebrate

eScape Bundle
includes

Love notes assortment

Circle of Freindship Stamp Set

1 1/4" Circle Punch

The bundle price is £28.39

with a saving of 25% of the catalogue price.

If you would like to order please email me.

Please check out other Promotions in the left hand coloumn under June Promotions .

Deals on wheels

2008-05-12T12:58:00.005+01:00

I'm having real trouble uploading photos at the moment so none of my creations to share today with you. Have done loads so will try to get to the bottom of it this week and get something uploaded.

I've been really busy with Stampin Up! and just life in general!!! It's Leah's birthday and party at the weekend and we go on holiday next Wednesday for 2 weeks for Jodie and Alex's wedding. WooHoo!

Anyway thought I'd upload the latest offer from Stampin' Up! I've got the petal wheel and Polka dots and Paisley set and it's very nice! (will try to get photos uploaded later in week)

Deals on Wheels!
Find wheely great deals at Stampin’ Up! all May long!
If you haven’t experienced the fun, ease, and versatility of our Stampin' Around wheels, now is your chance. For the entire month of May, when you buy a preselected stamp set, you’ll receive the coordinating wheel for 50 percent off!

Item Number - 113422
Description - Carte Postale bundleIncludes Carte Postale stamp set and the Leaves a la Carte jumbo wheel
Price - £29.93
Page numbers 56 - 57

Item number - 113423
Description - Seeing Spots bundleIncludes Seeing Spots stamp set and the Spot On jumbo wheel
Price - £19.93
Page number p. 52

Iem number - 113425
Description - Polka Dots & Paisley bundleIncludes the Polka Dots & Paisley stamp set and the Petals jumbo wheel
Price -£22.93
Catalogue page number- p. 51

Item number - 113427
Description - Close as a Memory/Vine bundleIncludes the Close as a Memory stamp set and the Watercolor Vine jumbo wheel
Price - £22.93
Catalogue page number - p. 40

Item number - 113430
Description - Close as a Memory/Joy bundleIncludes the Close as a Memory stamp set and the Watercolor Joy standard wheel
Price - £21.93
Page number - p. 40

You’ll be amazed at all the ways you can use wheels to add depth and dimension to your projects!

Click on link below to view catalogue

http://www2.stampinup.com/gb/eng/default.asp

Big Bold Sunday!

2008-04-27T08:45:00.006+01:00

Just a quick post to upload some photos I did last week. Using the Big bold birthday set, which is my favourite set at the moment. I love this colour combo - Real Red, More Mustard and those lovely greens - Old Olive, Sage Shadow and Garden Green. Yum!

(The ribbon has slipped down on this red card. Just noticed!)

I made this card a few weeks ago using a Magnolia stamp and Prima flowers.

My workshop theme for May is Baby, so I'm starting today on some samples and ideas for demos and make and takes for my May workshops. i'll post these sometime next weekend.

Bye for now

Louise x

Wild about You!!!

2008-04-20T21:29:00.006+01:00

I borrowed Linz' Wild About You set on Saturday. It's lush and I've been none stop with it ever since! I did want to do some pastel shades for baby cards with it but you know when it's just not happening.....

I'm loving using my sanded background stamp at the moment. You might be able to tell, it's on a lot of my stuff at the moment!

I've used Close to cocoa, Very Vanilla, Bordering Blue, Creamy caramel. So Saffron, Tempting Turquoise, Mellow moss, Green Galore. More Mustard and Old Olive Card stock.

Inks: Certainly Celery, Chocolate Chip, Bashful Blue and Versamark and Pastels.

The ribbon used is all Whisper White but coloured with a marker pen in choc Chip.

Also used : Nestabilities, Sizzix circle die, Stampin@ Up! Round Tab Punch.

I've done a pop up sliding card, but it just didn't photo well so I'll show that another time.

Had a lovely time Saturday afternoon crafting. Can't wait til next time. Have been listening to a load of old CD's while ironing this afternoon on Faye's Walkman. Just listening to Squeeze's Greatest Hits now and doing a bit of chair dancing while I'm typing this!!

Hope your weekend has been good.

Take Care.

Lou x

Open House this Saturday

2008-04-17T09:09:00.003+01:00

It's that time again! I'm having a Stamp/Craft/Chat n a cuppa session at my house this Saturday. 1 -3pm. My Stampin up! goodies will be available to look at and I'll be doing demonstrations and a make n take for those who are interested. Any orders taken on the day will be delivered next week. We have a fab time! If you fancy it email me and i'll give you directions etc.If you can't make it this time the next one will be Saturday 10th May.
Have a good day!
Lou x

Organised Tuesday

2008-04-15T07:13:00.006+01:00

Cor! How organised am I today posting this early!!

I combined a couple of challenges here over the weekend. The Papertake weekly challenge was to make a large box from two sheets of card stock. I used Basic Grey, Oh Boy! and Bazzill to make my box.

I then decided to make 5 cards to go inside the box to give as a gift. I again used Basic Grey papers, Bazill card stock, prima flowers, ribbons and magnolia stamps.

The Limited use challenge on Friday over on SCS was to make your own DP. I used Faber Castell pencils, low odor thinners and a stump to make my PP. Not sure how well it actually shows up on this photo. May do a close up if I get time this morning.

My own challenge was to not use my nestabilities! I lent them to Linz and panicked at the thought of not being able to use them for these cards! But I managed with rectangles, cut using my paper cutter.

Splitcoast challenges

2008-04-10T14:08:00.004+01:00

I'm trying to complete as many challenges as possible at the moment and did quite well last week with these three. They're all made entirely with Stampin' Up! products too.

I'm also going to try and update my blog at least twice a week with the challenges. Yeah, I know you've heard it all before!!!

This card was made for Sketch challenge SC169 on SCS.
Using the So Lovely Hostess level 1 set I stamped the poppy in Chocolate Chip onto Very Vanilla card stock. I used water colour pencils and my SU Blender pen to colour the image. It was then mounted onto Regal Red and Chocolate Chip Cardstock. I stamped a piece of Creamy Caramel with Choc Chip ink and Sanded background stamp, then onto a Choc Chip mat and wrapped some organza ribbon around, warming it up with the heat gun to distress slightly. I inked up the positive side of a Cuttlebug folder with Choc Chip to get the effect on the Regal red card stock. The Old Olive was stamped with the Sanded stamp in Choc Chip. Both were matted on Choc Chipto complete.

This card was done for to Challenges. Sketch Challenge SC168 and Colour Challenge CC158.
I've used Very Vanilla, Creamy Caramel, Sage Shadow and Orchid Oppulence Card Stock. Te image is from Summer by the Sea set and Sanded was used on the two coloured cardstock pieces(think you may have to click for close up to see.) The image was stamped in Basic Black ink and the greeting in Choc Chip. THe image was coloured using watercolour pencils and a blender pen. It was then covered in UTE and frozen to create the cracked glass vintage effect. THe card stocks were layered up and ribbon (not SU) was playered on top. The greeting has chlak round the edge to give it a vintage look and layered using a Marvy punch and Sizzix circles.

For some odd reason As I've been typing my third card has disappeared!! So will try uploading that again another time.

My little crafting bud Linz has actually launched her Blog so take a quick look if you can.

Happy crafting!
Lou x

Twice in 2 days!

2008-03-25T11:58:00.003Z

What has come over me? I'm posting again! I've never stopped stamping since Carol and Linz came over 2 weeks ago for my first Saturday workshop, so I've loads to post.

Here's a couple more

Stamps: Penny Black elephant,

Carstock: Bashful Blue, Apricot Appeal,Certainly Celery

Inks:Basic Black

Embellishments:Ribbon -Fairytale, MM brads, Sizzix circle die, woodware scallop circle punch, Cuttlebug embossing folder, watercolour pencils and blender pen

Stamps:Cheers and wishes, Mixed Bouquet

Cardstock:Grey(like Sahara sand), Ruby red, Cameo Coral, Very Vanilla

Inks:Certainly Celery, Basic Black, Versamark

Embellishments:Nestabilities, Organza ribbon, SU!chalks, Tracing wheel, scallop scissors, SU! Dimensionals
I got the idea for this one from the US Stampin Up! website. They used the embrace life set, that I haven't got, so used the mixed bouquet set instead.

Stamps:Big bold birthday, Sanded

Cardstock:Lavendar lace, pretty in pink, whisper white

Inks:Versamark, lavendar lace, Basic black

Embellishments:Embossing powder, American Crafts Ribbon, Woodware Large scallop circle punch, Coluzzle, Scallop scissors.

All supplies are Stampin Up! unless otherwise stated.

Take Care

Lou x

Happy Easter!

2008-03-24T16:43:00.001Z

Well, how long has it been since I posted? Aaaaggges!

The snow was great yesterday wasn't it? We took the sledges in to the woods for an hour. Both the girls have been feeling off it this week and enjoyed it but I think I had the best time!!

This is what we woke up to

It was about 4 inches deep. It only lasted until dinner time though.

I've been really busy in my craft room and have done loads using my SU! stuff. So thought I would share a few today before I go back in again.

Card stock and Paper: Certainly Celery Designer paper, Whisper White, Sahara Sand, Bordering Blue,Certainly celery

Stamps: Year after Year, Cheers and Wishes

Ink: Black

Tools:Nestabilities

Ribbon: Fairytale

Cardstock and Papers:Cutie Pie Designer paper,

Stamps: Big bold birthday

Ink: Colourbox inks

Tools:

Other: Marvy paper punch, Sizzix circle die, brad,

An update

2008-02-07T10:12:00.000Z

Hello, long time no see.

As some of you know me and Steve, my husband of nearly 18 years, split up just after New Year. We've had a really rough time of it and I think we have made the right decision in splitting up. It's been the hardest thing I've ever endured and I've not been too good but am feeling much better, most days anyway. I am starting to get creative again with the help of my 2 lovely creative freinds Carol and Linz.

I'm planning my first open house workshop in March, will post the date and details another day.

I'm going to recharge the batteries for my camera and get taking some photos and hope to post weekly on my blog with creative stuff and the rest.

Take care everyone and remember to look on the brightside!

Are you getting excited?

2007-12-23T09:27:00.000Z

He's coming tomorrow night! I am.

Sorry still no photos. I've been making loads and just haven't had a chance to photo and upload. I've still got christmas cards to post, presents to buy and a table to collect for Christmas dinner! I'm sooo organised! Anyway I should have lots more time to upload and post on here from boxing day.

I've been making things for my new Stampin Up! venture. Hostess gifts, door prizes, prize drwas and samples for the workshops. I'll post more details about all that too. I'm planning to have a workshop at my house 10th Jan. More details to follow. I'm thinking of maybe doing a few tutorials too.

We all went bowling and to Chiquitos last night at Xscape and had a fab time. The girls loved it. The staff in the bowling alley were a bit fed up with us though. We were a bit high maintenance! Lol!

Probably won't post before Christmas again so
ENJOY! Hope everyone has the best Christmas ever!
Lou x

I'm Back!!!!!

2007-12-12T07:24:00.000Z

Corr! I've been off line for 5 weeks. It feels like an eternity!
Well I'm back now with lots to share. I'll post some photos tonight when I get home (will be late).
We've got the Christmas decorations and tree up. I've done some shopping for presents and I'm feeling Christmassy now. I love christmas! The girls are getting excited too.
I did a Christmas Fayre last week. It was disappointing but I enjoyed it.
I'm a Stampin' Up! demonstrator! I'm just going to do it one night per week I think. The catalogues are just gorgeous. I can't wait to get going with that either. I'm going to have a workshop at my house after christmas. Everyone is invited!
Right I'm off to do Leah's croissants - she's starving! I'm on some training all day today (Substance Misuse) then on my last Homestart course tonight. It's a long old day!
See you soon!

The morning after....

2007-11-01T12:17:00.000Z

...Halloween! It was so quiet here. Usually the streets around us are heaving with children (and scary monsters) but last night was spookily quiet. Don't know what happened there then. Leah wasn't bothered she said there would be more sweets for her! I was inspired to make my own little buckets of sweets and packets of jellies. unfortunately because it was so quiet we had quite a few left and I've just accidently eaten them. Damn! Good job i've done a step class this morning.This year the girls carved their own pumpkins. I'm dead proud of them! Shame the photos isn't very good - Flash, dish cloth etc...

Hope you all had a Happy Halloween. It's definately time to concentrate on Christmas now.

Flaky Friends Christmas

2007-10-28T12:40:00.000Z

I love this stampo from the Stampin Up! Flaky Friends set. I love the fact that stamps can look so different in diferent colours. I use browns and reds a lot. I love raffia too and use that whenever I can. I've got a load of it hanging up on the back of my craft room door. I bought it from a florist warehouse for peanuts last year and have got loads left.

Supplies

Cardstock:DCWV, MM, Papermill, Bazzill

Patterned paper: MM, Bo Bunny Press

Stamps: Stampin Up! Flaky Friends, Will n Way, Hero arts

Other:Raffia, ribbon, Cuttlebug Embossing folder, Fiskars Scallop Scissors, MM brad

I used the Mojo 6 sketch challenge to do the 2 Whipper Snapper 'Working it out' cards.

Supplies

Cardstock: Bazzill, Papermill,

Patterned paper: KI Memories (i think)

Stamps: Stampin Up!, Whipper Snapper, Will n Way

Other: American Crafts Ribbon, Sizzix circles, MM brads, Lasting Impressions stencil

THe treat slider was supposed to have popcorn inside! I didn't have any so used a packet of Kenco Latte instead! I followed a tutorial on Split Coast to make it. I used Stampin Up! I likeit a Latte set and basic Grey cardstock.

Thanks for looking today! Come back soon!

More Christmas cards

2007-10-28T12:34:00.002Z

I did these two Christmas cards for the Daring Cardmakers Challenge to make a card with a Christmas tree on last week.

Supplies: Cardstock: Bazzill, Papermill,

Patterned Paper: Making Memories

Stamps: Stampin Up! - Flaky freinds, Hero Arts -Greeting

Other: American Crafts - ribbon and other, Cuttlebug embossing folder, Hero Arts buttons, Lasting Impressions brads

Christmas Cards

2007-10-28T11:49:00.001Z

I've been making loads of Christmas cards with this lovely Santa collage stamp from Rubber Stampede. I'm really happy with how they look and am going to use the deep red and gold ones as one of the designs for our cards this year. The smaller cards (the ones in the top photo) are made from the off cuts of the larger cards. I am Mrs Thrify knickers! Large card dimensions are 12cm square and smaller are 9cm square. I originally used the Spiltcoast stampers sketch challenge SC146 and went from there. Supplies Card Stock: Papermill, Bazzill, DCWV

Stamp: Rubber Stampede - Santa collage

Ribbon: American crafts, other

Other: Cuttlebug embossing folders, stickles, sandpaper

Carol, I thought you might like this stamp.

The next 2 are using the same stamp and supplies just in black and white and I did them for the MOJO6 sketch challenge.

I'm going to be a Stampin Up demonstrator

2007-10-27T22:31:00.001+01:00

I'm really excited. I've got so many ideas for workshop/parties. The extra money will come in handy too. but waht better way to make money than by enjoying yourself with others while you enjoy your hobby. The products they sell are fab too. They are going to be more expensive than they are in the usa but they are still good value and are sold in fantastic sets with coordinating papers, embellishments and tools. I can't wait. Should be all sorted for Christmas. The hardest part will be not spending the money I earn on buying more stamps.I'll keep you updated and if you would like to host a party let me know.

A few pics

2007-10-27T21:49:00.000+01:00

It's been ages since I posted anything on here. I've got loads of pics to upload. So I'll start with these few..

THis first one is Lewis icnig a chocolate cake we made together, last Friday. He was a little love!

I made some cards using Autumn colours. they were all made using the same products.

I did this card for the Splicoast sketch challenge SC145

Cardstock: Bazzill, Basic Grey, Papermill

Patterned Paper: Paper Pizazz (very old),Flair Designs Inc

Stamps: Will n Way, Whipper Snapper, Stamps Happen

Other: Cuttlebug embossing folder, ribbon, flowers, beads, ticket punch

That's all I've got on my camera at the moment and the batteries have just died on me taking more pics! I'll get the rest uploaded tomorrow.

thursdays ramblings

2007-10-11T19:22:00.001+01:00

It's soon come around to my day off again and I've been in the mood for crafting! Well thinking about it anyway. I've seen some gorgeous covered tealights and thought I needed to do some of my own. I bought some Christmas spice red tealights from Sainsbury's earlier this week and made these today. I used MM paper from the Sam range and CB snowflake embossing folder. I added a bit of stickles, sizzix tags, American Crafts ribbon and some bling. I think I'm going to make more for nice little pressies for folk. The spicy aroma is lovely and has got me in the mood to make more Christmas stuff. I can't think what to do with the red lollipops I made the other day. I've got a few ideas, but nothing is just right.

I made this diorama card a while back using a tutorial on SCS. It was a bit fiddly so if I was going to do another it would have to be someone spesh! I used SU Flaky friends set and Bazzill cardstock.

This next card was done for a SCS challenge. We had to use Basic Black, Basic Gray and River Rock. I haven't any SU cardstock so used what I thought were the equivalent in Bazill. I've had this stamp years and hardly ever used it. My watercolouring is not great. I need to work on that a bit (or a lot)

Next is another SCS challenge to make an acetate card. I used delight in life set. You can only just make out that the acetate has been stamped with a background stamp from the same set. I was really pleased with this card. It was very hard to photo though.

I made this little box before work on Tuesday. Ended up being a bit late, but you know when you just have to do something and your prepared to suffer the consequences....

The tutorial is on K werners gorgeous blog.

We cleaned the hammies out tonight and I thought you might like to see them. They are only about 10 weeks old. We got them from my friend Linz. She had to replace a hamster at short notice, as you do, and Bobby 2 was already pregnant. She was only about 6 weeks old. God! and we women think we've got it bad, I'd hate to be a hamster! Anyway, We took two of them, Fergie and Bella and here is one of them. They are more or less identical. Faye is the only one who can tell them apart. They are still tiny and so cute. Here is one of them. I think this is Bella.

Sunday's Ramblings

2007-10-07T18:27:00.002+01:00

This is my craft room! Still a bit of a mess as i unpack everything and put it just in the right place. Might need some new storage. I was trying to stick to a strict budget of zero ponuds. I'll see how it goes. I could have a root around in the loft for some alterable storage items I suppose.

I went out last night with Deb for a few drinks in Ponte. Had a laugh, a good catch up, watched a fight, drank too much and shared a kebab. Fab night!! I'm a bit tired now though. Kept trying to get a 10 minute nap in but it's impossible in our house. The kids must be tuned in to the closing of my eyelids and instantly need me the second my eyes shut. Ed has gone to the pub to watch the Cas match and is bringing an Indian home (meal not person!) and Ill be off to bed within half an hour of scoffing it I bet.

I've made a start on my Christmas cards. I've decided to do 10 each of 12 designs this year. Some for me and some to sell. I don't send handmade cards to everyone so I need about 60. I did the snowman with tall hat (Lasting Impressions) earlier in the week and then have started on the lollipop ones but not quite sure exactly what I'm going to do with them yet.

The finished ones have been sanded so the swirls are white and I think I might add names to the tags.

Hopefully I might get 10 mins play tonight. After I've done the ironing and got Leah in bed and all before Ed gets in with Tea, who am I trying to kid?!

These are a few of what I've done lately.

I did these tags for Mam. She liked one I put on a bottle of wine for Dad to say thanks , so i thought I'd make her some.
This was for a challenge on SCS a couple of weeks ago. A criss cross card. I used Carols sizzix petal die for the flower. It needs something else adding to it yet though. Just don't know what.

The light wasn't great when I took these photos.

Bit of an update on the Avon firming cream I've been using. Things definately look slightly better. I forgot to measure myself last week but have now so will see if there is any difference in size too.

I have been running on the treadmill in the garage 3 or 4 times aweek and was inspired by a man at work last week who had done the great North Run. I have decided I'm going to do a 10km run after Christmas so need to step that up a bit. I'm still going (ish) to Weight Watchers but have realised I do need to follow the plan and just going to the meetings will not make my wobbly bits melt away.

Right I've rambled on a bit there. Could go on forever, as you probably know. I'm thinking about becoming a Stampin up! demonstrator and will fill you in on that next time.

A new craft room!

2007-10-03T07:38:00.001+01:00

We've decided to turn our spare bedroom back into my craft room again. Our bedroom was a bit of a mess, as more and more crafting bits were coming back out of the boxes I packed everything away in. Steve salvaged a big wooden desk from work that I've sanded down and painted. I just need to unpack everything now. I'll post some picks. I can't wait to be back in there again now I've got my creativity back! I've got so many ideas I need to get on with especially some of these from this lovely lady's site http://www.ustamp4fun.com/ Amy Celone. Gorgeous and very inspiring!
I did manage to get a couple of cards done at the end of last week. One is a Christmas Diorama card that I'll get posted on here tonight with a couple of others.
Right must go and get the girls up and ready for school.

Cards for today!

2007-09-25T10:42:00.001+01:00

I had a right lazy day yesterday. I didn't do much at all. I did make a book following a tutorial from Beate's blog that I'll upload later as Ive just a few bits to add on. I've got a few cards to show you that I finished Sunday night.

The new home card is for my friend Sue who has moved house and I must go and see because it's ages since I saw her and we've got a lot to catch up on. I did it for the SCS colour challenge CC132 last week.
Stamps - SU (They have a tiny bit of gold EP sprinkled)
Cuttlebug Alphabet -Your not the boss of me and embossing folder.

You might recognise the second card from an advert in one of the Papercrafts magazines. It is 95% cased.
Stamps- SU Delight in life
Card Stock- Bazzill
Cuttlebug -Embossing folder and Red Tag alphabet

I made the age 4 card for my friends litttle girl .

Card stock -bazzill and Paper Cellar
Ribbon - Unknown
Patterned Paper - MM
Buttons - Hero Arts
Die cuts - Red Tag
Stamp - Whipper Snapper- Girl with teddy.

I really must go for a run today. I've sat around a lot the last few days and have eaten loads of crisps!! (she says with her hand in a large bag of chilli heatwave doritos). I've got some new cream from Avon that is supposed to firm up floppy bits! and boy have Igot some! 65% of users said there floppies were frimed up in just a few weeks. So I'm going to measure mine today and let you know when I am a svelte like size 10. I'm also going to tidy Fayes bedroom because the mess drives me mad whenever I walk past it.
Have a good day everyone!

I've been busy!!

2007-09-22T23:38:00.000+01:00

I've done a few SCS challenges this week. I've a couple more I'd like to do tomorrow if I get a chance.

This is what I did for the TLC134 challenge on SCS. It's a dinky little box made from one sheet of Bazzill A4 card stock and Stampin Up stamp set.

This one is was supposed to be the Limited Stock challenge , only using 3 or 4 layers max. I didn't manage it though! That's one to try again tomorrow.

The patterned paper is from Imaginesce and the stamp set is Delight in Life from SU.

This next one was for the WT132 challenge. The challenge was to use Grey card stock which i did, for the base and as a mount for the stamped flower design.

The paper is from Imaginesce and the stamp set is SU Delight in Life.

This one was for the sketch challenge SC142. The patterned paper is Basic Grey and Stamp set SU Flaky Freinds.

I've done this one using a new stamp I got last week. It's really cute. I discovered a lovely blog today http://kittyskrafty.blogspot.com/ and Kitty is giving away blog candy! I had to enter to be in with a chance so here's my creation using stamps, patterned paper (K&Co), flowers (MM Prima and own)and bling(MM).

Right I'm off to bed now , I'm shattered!

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-09-21T12:22:00.001+01:00

I promise to try harder!

2007-09-21T10:18:00.000+01:00

I promise to try harder to keep my blog up to date!
We're all settled down again at the Edwards house and I'm back into crafting and taking photos again, so thought it was time to keep my blog up to date with nice photies instead of looking at everyone else's .

For starters then........

Lewis and Leah at cannon Hall in the August Hols. We did the Maize maze there.

Now here's Faye with her new(ish) hair do! Yep, she cut about 6ins off herself one morning just before going to school! Anyway it looks so much nicer shorter. It really suits her.Then here's one of old Ed!I took this at Flamingo Land a couple of weeks ago. He doesn't look very happy does he! We had a great day though.

......and the last one for now is me with my blonde hair that most of you probably haven't seen.

I'll be back later with my makes for this week, now you remember what we all look like!!

Have a great weekend everyone. x

I'm still in the land of the living!

2007-07-17T16:13:00.000+01:00

Well I didn't keep that up for long did I?!!! Haven't done much though lately, well apart from nearly getting divorced, but that's another story! I need to get the camera out again and I'm feeling a bit creative so might show some of my latest makes (when I make them)!
xxx

Ahhh! School Holidays - Such a wonderful time!

2007-04-13T10:38:00.000+01:00

Hope everyone had a good Easter.

I have still got my hair firmly attached to my head, I haven't ripped it out by the roots due to fighting children, or bored children as it seems to be at the moment. I haven't drunk myself into oblivion (much) although I have troffed most of the chocolate eggs the kids got. They have been quite good (whatever good children are). Saying that, they did go to the caravan for three days with M & D.

We ventured out yesterday in search of Adventure mountain in Sheffield, couldn't find it and after tantrums from everyone we ended up at Yorkshire Sculpture Park. The kids pretended to not like it (boring) I loved it and we got some good photos and here they are! I haven't mastered the technical bits on the camera so some of the photos are a bit blue until I sort them out.

Look at these!

2007-04-04T20:00:00.001+01:00

Aren't they ace?! I had them done a fortnight ago at Bright Sparks. There's more but I just love these close ups. I've got the cd so I can print them off. Oooo! I love my babes!

Lou x

Are you watching the ravishing Robson tonight?

Good Morning Peeps!

2007-04-03T09:32:00.000+01:00

What's it like

at your end? It was gorgeous here yesterday, while I was indoors all day painting. The kids played out all day which was good. Today looks a bit gloomy. Nevermind there's more painting to be done.

I took the girls to see Mr Bean's Holiday at the cinema last night. What a laugh! We laughed from beginning to end, he's absolutely hilarious. If you get the chance go and see it.

The first photo for today is Faye with Honey the Hamster watching TV, taken yesterday morning. The second one is Leah, so you can see her with both her front teeth missing.

2007-03-31T22:19:00.000+01:00

Leah's loose tooth!

2007-03-31T22:12:00.000+01:00

White Post Farm - Faye, Leah and Lewis

Feb 2007

Hope this works!!

2007-03-31T21:49:00.000+01:00

Wahay!! Hope this works and I'm not rattling away on this keyboard for nothing!
This is my bright idea to stay in touch with everyone (as you know this is not a strong point of mine!) My idea is that I can post photos and updates and and if you leave messages too, we can all stay in touch. I think that's what a blog is for anyway! Have got a new pooter today and can now upload lovely pics of the girls. I'll really try hard to update a couple of times a week. I'd love to hear from y'all so please leave messages.

The photos are of the kids at White post farm during the February half term hols and there's one of Leah just after she'd wobbled another tooth out!