An Artist's Ramblings by Faux Painter

2012-01-28T10:12:00.000Z

Well here we are, yes don't faint I've managed to make some time to blog, not that I have too much to say really. Unless you want to hear about the two nails I ripped off, big ouch. No? OK I won't go into details.

With the condition of Lupus comes extreme fatigue. You learn to live with it when it's at a certain point and it becomes the norm, but every so often it hits you hard and fast out of the blue. Sometimes it's because you've caught a bug or a cold or because you are having a flare up. It hit me a week and a half ago and I have no idea why, maybe I'm having a mild flare up but just didn't realise, who knows, it's so unpredictable it really could be anything. It has left me very frustrated though, I really don't have to do much and I'm virtually falling asleep while trying to make a card or while I'm on the computer, so if you're a tweeter and I've suddenly just disappeared you know why. It's not me being rude, I've simply dozed off.

This week a friend on twitter put a shout out for people to follow one of her followers. I got his account up and saw that he had just lost a friend. His friend had died very suddenly and he is pretty devastated. He'd never met this friend, but had formed a very close friendship with them over twitter. When she suddenly stopped tweeting he phoned her Mother and got the sad news. I have spoken with him and he is a very lonely man, not in a saddo way, but just someone reaching out for a bit of conversation and friendship. He even thanked me for replying as so many didn't bother or have the time. There was no need for thanks, after all good manners and a kind word or two cost nothing. It's just a shame so many people nowadays are so wrapped up with themselves that they don't spare even a moment for someone in need. It's not everyone but it is far more common now than it was 10-20 years ago.

What ever you think of Twitter it does have a lot of good points and is different for different people. I hear people say 'why do I want to know what someone is having for tea, or that they are walking the dog etc', well it's so much more than that. For some it's a way of finding friends with the same interests, for others it's a useful tool for business. I have found some very good friends, ones I will keep in touch with regardless of twitter, also I have made many work contacts and got a lot of work through twitter. I enjoy the interaction with people, we laugh, we cry and we help each other out. It's not for everyone, but it can be a lifeline to some that are shy or lonely.

The challenge over at Polka Doodles this week was set me and I wanted to see projects made with templates. I used the Christmas Paper Boutique CD for my project. All the templates on the Paper Boutique CD's are really easy to cut out and make fabulous cards with hardly any effort. But, add a little creativity to the mix and you can use them for all sorts and get some spectacular results.

Here are a few cards from the January Clarity Stamp show on Create and Craft. I really enjoyed using the mask stamps, you can make a really striking projects with them, and the harlequin stamp is so useful.

And here are a few Magazine project cards they are in the February edition of Making Cards, so if you want to know how to make them get down to a craft shop or WH Smith and get your self a copy. I used cupcake holders for one set, I think they're very effective.

I used another of Polka Doodles Paper Boutique CDs for the one below.

A quick catch up

2012-01-22T00:04:00.000Z

Well that's another 4 weeks flitted by, who turned on the fast forward button? I'd be grateful if you turned it off now please.

There's lots happening over at Polka Doodles at the mo. They've just hit 1000 followers on the challenge blog, and to celebrate they are giving away blog candy this week. They've also started up the Diddydoodles challenge blog for children, so if you have a budding crafting son/grandson or daughter/granddaughter then why not steer them in that direction for a little fun and inspiration.

The challenge over at PD is a sketch this week. We know how you all love sketches so why not have a go, you never know!

This was my card for last weeks challenge, all the papers are from the Pretty Sweet CD and I used several spellbinder dies to make this pretty card. The gorgeous ribbon is from the Polka Doodles shop, I think it's one of my favourite ones to date.

And now some Making Cards Magazine news. They have another special issue 'Say it with flowers' on the way, and you can now pre-order it here. I've made some of the projects and you'll definitely find plenty of inspiration in it. In Feb's edition there is also an extra free gift in the form of a sheet of peeloffs to match the free papers, which are now perforated for easier removal. And I've saved the best till last, the Making Cards Lucky numbers. Each month one reader can win a £50 spending spree at their local craft shop. Such a shame I can't entre, I wouldn't mind a bit of a spending spree myself.

Merry Christmas one and all

2011-12-24T19:25:00.000Z

Well here we are on Christmas eve, many of us are running around cooking, preparing, wrapping and goodness knows what else. And all for 1-2 days. It's madness when you really think about it, but you know what, I love it and I wouldn't have it any other way.

I hope you all have a very merry Christmas and a happy new year, and if you don't celebrate Christmas I hope you have a good break and get to relax and enjoy yourself.

As usual I'm way behind on the cards so there's lots to look at. The photos are pretty bad I'm afraid as my camera has been slowly dying over the last few months. I am however getting a new one tomorrow whoohoo, I can't wait.

Creative Expressions samples

I'm not sure if I've already shown the fist ones, so sorry if they are repeats.

Polka Doodles Challenge card form last week. I used the Magical Winter CD

Magazine projects

An odd card I made, I love this Stamps Happen stamp.

Clarity Stamps samples

Have a lovey time over the holidays, eat drink and be merry, and maybe throw in a bit of crafting.

Will I ever catch up?

2011-11-27T22:29:00.000Z

It's a question I ask myself quite often, and I'm fast coming to the conclusion that the answer is no. I seem to lurch from flat out with steam coming out of my ears to dead stop and being ill. No happy medium at all, which in an ideal world would be bliss. Heyho not much I can do about it other than have a body transplant, which at times is quite tempting. I'd go for a longer and slimmer legged model next time though, lol.

I shall waffle no more and get on with the pictures of samples, I'm still no closer to catching up with these so it's another mega post.

Polka Doodles have Launches another CD Pretty Tough, all the images are boys and pretty damn cute they are too. Nikky has been on a bit of a spending spree and there are oodles of luverly new goodies on the PD site, so why not hop on over there and take a look.

Samples from the new CD Pretty Tough.

Magazine projects for Nikky

Clarity Stamps samples

Some of my xmas cards

That's enough for now I think, I still have Creative Expressions and Magazine projects but they will have to wait till next time. Untill then happy crafting

So much for good intentions!

2011-11-09T01:00:00.000Z

What can I say, I just didn't get here did I. Sorry, but so much going on and I was ill, always a bad combination. Sometimes I hate having Lupus so much I just want to cry with frustration, but that does no good and leads down the path to depression, and I'm not taking that track for anyone, no way, no how. Much better to get on as best I can with what I can (if you get my drift).

Anyway lots of belated news for you.

First off, Kuretake now have an online shop so you can buy direct from them, Yippee so much easier than trawling through sites to find something. One of their new product ranges is the Basically Bare packs. Packs of wonderful shapes from dress forms to stars and clouds and so much more. The packs contain a mixture of calico, felt, corrugated cardboard, clear plastic and chipboard/greyboard. All excellent and just waiting to be coloured, altered and fixed to exciting projects. Lower down is some projects I've done using them and a tutorial for you.

The next piece of news is that Nikky over at Polka Doodles has crumpled under the pressure by everyone asking her to do some colouring workshops. So if you want to get tips and help with your colouring in of stamps/images then maybe this workshop is just up your street. If you live a long way from York, then why not make a weekend of it and do some sightseeing in and around York. Having been there years ago, I can say it's well worth a visit.

Don't forget to check out the Polka Doodles challenge blog for some fantastic inspirational projects to get your creative juices flowing. And while your there why not have a go and entre the challenge.

Basically Bare project tutorial.

Dressmakers Form Card

Kuretake Materials

Art and Graphic Twin Tip Pens, light and dark pink, purple, lilac and mid blue

Basically Bare hearts pack

Basically Bare Dress Form pack

Basically Bare Celestial shapes pack

SBKPC950-5 Gothic corner punch

Light blue scrapbooking paper

Pink satin ribbon pack

Blue round brads

Lilac flower brads

White embossing powder

Embossing pen

Zig Two Way Glue pen

Other Materials

Lilac A4 cardstock

Lightweight white cardstock

Silver thread

How to Make

· Fold the lilac card in half to make an A5 card blank.

· Take the large felt heart from the Basically bare heart pack and spritz with water. Scribble lines of colour next to each other with the Art and Graphic twin pens. Spritz the ink with water then lay the heart on to colour, move the heart around slightly to ensure good colour coverage. Allow to dry.

· Fold over the point of the heart and sew in place with Silver thread. Sew some stars at the bottom and add a lilac flower brad to the folded piece.

· Scribble purple, lilac and blue Art and Graphic twin pens on a craft mat, spritz with water and lay the white card over it. Swoosh it around a bit and put to one side to dry. Repeat with the same colours but add some pink to it. Cover the piece with cling film and allow to dry naturally.

· Use the corner punch to punch out a border from the blue card. Fix to the right hand side of the card. Trim down the coloured/cling filmed card and fix to the card as shown.

· Use the embossing pen and white embossing powder to cover the top and the bottom areas of the large greyboard dress form from the dress form pack.

· Cut out a bodice shape from the other piece of coloured card and fix in place on the dress form. Fix two short pieces of pink ribbon across the bottom of the dress, a piece round the waist and a twisted piece across the top of the bodice. Fix the coloured heart in place on the skirt area.

· Cover a star from the celestial shapes pack with the coloured card. Edge with the blue pen and write your message on it. Fix some pink ribbon down the right hand side of the card, fix the dress form and the star in place. Add 3 blue brads in place at the bottom of the ribbon.

Other projects using Basically bare products.

Zig Art and Graphic pens used to colour the heart and backing panels. All embellies and ribbon are Kuretake products and can be found in the shop.

A lovely happy card this one. Art and Graphic Twin pens again, Kuretake 12x12 coloured paper and the card blank is by Hunkydory.

Ooo, he's so scrummy I could just eat him up. A 8x8 scrapbook layout. I marbled with the alcohol inks to make the background, and I marbled a few other bits and bobs too.

I used a whole mixture of pens and inks and products on this Basically Bare book.

Well I'm cream crackered, so I'm leaving this post here. I still have loads of Creative Expressions and Clarity samples to catch up on and post. They will all be in the next post.

Happy crafting till then.

At Last

2011-10-16T15:23:00.000+01:00

I'm so sorry everyone for such a long absence, but life has been so hectic over the last few months that a lot of things have not been done. My poor blog being one of them. I have so many cards to show you all it's going to take me posts to catch up, so I'll cram as many in as I can. Right less yabba yabba from me and I'll get on with it.

First off, Polka Doodles samples and challenge cards. Polka Doodle goodies can be bought from here.

Pretty sweet CD for the first 7 Cards

Some of the Gorgeous PD stamps, backing papers from A Sundae of Seasons CD and Kuretake Art and Graphic Twin Tips. I know I've said it before but they really are the best pens you can use for stamping and water colouring.

A Magical Winter CD

PD Flutterfly stamp.

Creative Expressions Demo Samples

Clarity Stamp TV samples

Phew, that's it for now. More to follow later.

Design Team Call

2011-10-06T15:43:00.001+01:00

A message from Nikky at Polka Doodles

"Okkkaaayyyy! We're looking for some new teamies to join us here at Polkadoodles!

Yep, we need some new blood to join our lovely talented team on this challenge blog and also to make samples for shows and TV! So, if you LOVE colouring and you're great with your Promarkers, Copics, Prisma's and Watercolours (or any other colouring medium) and it's your speciality then please email us with a link to your blog and NO MORE than 50 words about yourself and why you want to be on the Polkadoodles team. If you don't like colouring then don't worry - we cater for everyone, but you do need to be able to use digital products and rubber stamp. It doesn't matter if you're a cardmaker, scrapbooker, a stamper or a CD crafter, we need someone who can be versatile and fit within the other talents on our fabulous, happy team. We look for all kinds of abilities and styles so you've gotta be in it, to win it, as the saying goes! You MUST have a blog where you post regularly. You MUST be able to commit to participating in the challenge blog 3 times per month, making TV samples when required AND commenting on challenge entries each week, so please ensure you can do all this before you apply - this is a permanent position and you must be able to offer the commitment we need. We will consider entries from around the world but as we need people who can also make samples, because of time constraints entries from the UK may have an advantage - if you're not in the UK please don't let that put you off, really we just need someone awesome, and we're looking for more than one person!! We will be choosing someone over the next two weeks and results will be posted here. Please do not leave comments etc, all bloglinks must be sent by email by 13th OCTOBER. Please ensure your links are correct and link to the homepage so we can see your blog properly. email us with a link to your blog and NO MORE than 50 words about yourself and why you want to be on the Polkadoodles team. (please note: Final decision will be announced on this blog after 13th October) ---- GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!!! We can't wait to see your work! xx"

I'll be back soon with mahoosive amounts of cards and creations. Sorry for the lack of blogging but life just keeps getting in the way!

Magmaker the publishers of Making Cards are launching a new Magazine Making Cakes and Bakes. Looks pretty scrummy to me so if you like your cakes and baked goodies why not take a look.

Calligraphy - to learn or not to learn?

2011-08-16T21:16:00.000+01:00

Well here I am contemplating the question for about the millionth time. It's something I've always wanted to do, but never found the time. I see samples of calligraphy and think 'wow, wish I could do that'. Well I could if I bothered to learn how, which I have now promised myself to do ........ sometime soon .......

In the meantime I will have to make do with my normal cheating, ie printing something off the pc and then tracing it with the aid of a light box. Not brilliant but it does the job for the time being.

I've made a few samples recently for Kuretake, so if you've seen any of their recent shows you may recognise them.

Chalk writers and one of the lovely corner punches by Kuretake

Chalk writers used with peeloffs (spits over shoulder). To be honest I'm not a fan of peeloffs but they can be handy sometimes and there are many that do wonderful things with them.

Metallic writers, again with ppppppppp..... yeah them things lol. These look stunning on dark card, I'll deffo be using these more often. I think lush is the word for these.

Metallic writers used for writing. Thank goodness I got the spelling right, I think I may have had a right toddler tantrum if I'd finished and spotted a spelling mistake. I used the pens on one of Polka Doodles stamps for the snowflakes.

Metallic green and green calligraphy pens

The calligraphy pens again

Art and graphic twin tips pens for the background and the coloured image. Polka Doodles stamp with Kuretakes black sparkle embossing powder. Kuretake fibres

A&GTT pens again with Polka Doodles stamp. Kuretake corner punch used for the border and a couple of their brads

A&GTT pens for background and direct to stamp which they are particularly excellent for, very juicy so they stay wet for a long time and they don't pool on the rubber like most other pens.

Embossing pens and Kuretake black sparkle embossing powder. The calligraphy was freehand, a bit wonky granted, but for me it's quite good.

Embossing pens and black sparkle embossing powder

Embossing pens and black sparkle embossing powder and yes it;s all freehand not a stamp.

Embossing powders and pens again. Corner punch for the border.

Gold and silver pens (forget which ones) corner pinch and brads

Kuretake Painty pens. Theses will go on most surfaces and they are really opaque so are excellent for one coat coverage

Gold and silver pens, corner punch and gems. The flower was made from the waste bits form the punch

Metallic writer, ribbon and brads

Gold pen, ribbons and corner punch.

Long Post - Clarity Stamp Bonanza

2011-08-08T16:24:00.000+01:00

Well I'm back with all the Clarity Stamps samples (that's if blogger lets me load them all). There's rather a lot so sit down with a cupper or stiff drink. Hope I don't bore you all silly with them.

Before I go further though I would like to just add my penniesworth on a couple of unfortunate issues that have cropped up recently. The first one regarding the "Pen Gate" saga (as Nikky has affectionately named it). Nikky Hall of Polka Doodles has been reviewing Alcohol pens, and a damn good job she's done too IMHO. At no time has she said anything was rubbish and not to buy, there have been good points and bad points to all that she has reviewed so far. She has done this to give fair and informative information to any crafter out there who may be a bit confused by all the different ones available, and have no idea which ones may suit them best.

Now there are some who think it's not possible to give a fair and impartial view on something when you freelance for rival companies. Utter tosh and nonsense I'm afraid. As a professional freelancing crafter I work for rival companies all the time, as do most other freelancers. I always do my best for that company that I'm doing samples for or demonstrating for. But I will not compromise my integrity and lie for them or praise their products unless I genuinely think they are good quality and do the job they were designed for. I know Nikky and I can tell you now she follows the same unwritten rules that I do. Yes she freelances for Kuretake UK ans Letraset, rival companies both selling excellent high quality pens etc. If they trust Nikky and the rest of us to be fair and give our best for them, then why are others questioning ours and their integrity?

OK onto the second issue. How to start? it's a hard one, I could be setting myself up for backlash with these issues but hey ho, I feel it needs to be said!

From time to time I have a flit round the forums like most people, I am a member of a couple but most I just just look in on. One particular forum gets me riled when ever I go on my wanderings which is such a shame as the majority of members are decent. So many of their posts start off positive then get hijacked by a negative post and the whole thing turns into an utter bitch fest and witch hunt (eeks I've said it out loud, but that really is what it looks like when you read through the threads). Now I'm not saying everyone on the forum joins in as they don't, and many try to intercede and change the topic of conversation. The majority of the members are genuine people who just want to chat about their crafting and other issue and just interact with other crafters, get help with problems or give advice. This is what it's all about, not picking on someone or a particular company and running them into the ground. Some of the things that have been said are so hurtful, it's like playground bullying.

Now there is freedom of speech and constructive criticism, but certain posts go way beyond this. When you are targeting a person and saying nasty things they should be kept in a private discussion or just kept to yourself, not plastered on an open forum for that person to read all the nastiness. Don't think for one moment that the people concerned don't ever read these threads because they do. I firmly believe that you should treat people as you would like to be treated yourself. If you had a child at school being victimised you'd be the first one down the school to get it stopped and the people involved punished. I'm sorry but in my opinion it should be no different just because we are adults.

So many times I have thought to join this forum but it has put me off every time I've gone to do so. I read a thread recently about how members were sick of all the negative posting. Well done to the first poster and all that commented after, I applaud you all for trying to make a change. There are many helpful and interesting threads on the forum, and for so many it's a lifeline of communication to like minded people. This is what it was designed for, chat, information, help and friendship.

Right I've said my piece and I'll say no more. My views are my own and may not be the same as yours, we are all different after all.

So onto the Clarity Stamp show samples. Sorry there's rather a lot of them!

That's enough now, sorry if I bored the pants off you. Some Kuretake samples next time. Not so many though.

Poorly bunny ....... again!!!

2011-07-29T00:30:00.000+01:00

Well I'm here at last, yes it's been a long time again. I do try to get on here and post but I just always run out of time. Personally I think someone steals it from me, somewhere out there is a naughty time hacker who hacks into peoples lives to steal time from them.

If you are a small animal owner, why not pop over to AJ Cavies web page, they are having monthly competitions with some great prizes. Although they are mainly Guinea pigs some prizes are suitable for rabbits or even other animals.

I'm sat here sweating like I was in a sauna, only I'm in my PJ's and sat in my living room with the patio doors wide open. I feel a Little bananas with a heat pad on my chest and another one on my lower back on a rather warm night, but they do ease pain a great deal so I'm putting up with the heat and pretending I'm sat on a beach somewhere in the Bahamas. The dog shoving his toys in my face is rather ruining the illusion somewhat though!

Anyway onto some crafty stuff, so much to show you I don't think I'll get it all on one post so some will have to wait again. Pop over to the Polka Doodles challenge blog and see what the rest of the design team have been creating. I won't worry about showing my DT projects because I've shown them on here before so there's no point me putting them on again. There's loads of lovey new stash on the Polka Doodles online shop so go a looksey and maybe treat yourself to something nice.

There were 2 new CD's (Magical Winter) launched by Polka Doodles and some fabby new stamps. Nikky really has been busy and the images are all to die for. Here are some of the samples I made for the launch.

Pics of samples and the three day demo we did at Squires Garden centre at Badshot Lea for Creative Expressions

The lovely Maria from Creative Expressions

Me, red faced and boiling hot, I was nearly ready to explode.

His royal cuteness in the workroom with me. He's not spoilt much lol.

Well I was right, still got Clarity Stamp samples and magazine cards so they'll be on the next post.
Happy crafting, Dee x

MIA

2011-06-21T09:36:00.000+01:00

Eeks, how long has it been since my last post post? The time seems to be going past on a blur or frenzied sample making, I seem to have jumped from one urgent job straight into another with no time for myself at all. It's not changing for the next few weeks either and I sure could do with a break and some relaxation.

I've done a couple of Demos for Creative Expressions in the last month and I have a 3 day Demo at Squires Garden Centre Badshot lea Farnham on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd July. It's going to be a 3 day extravaganza (well that's what the owners are aiming for) with other companies demonstrating there too. We are going to be in a marquis so I hope it's not going to be sweltering hot or freezing cold, if it is I'll either be a puddle on the floor or an ice cube lol. The lovely Maria Holder will be demonstrating with me. I'll be domoing mainly metal work and the Grand Calibur (I love this machine almost as much as my Cuttlebug) and Maria will be concentrating mainly on stamping and Ranger products, I hope we'll have power or I'm going to be stuck with a few techniques.

If your in the area them come along and say hi, get some inspiration and do a spot of crafty retail therapy. We'd love to see you there.

Right I have oodles of sample to show you, far to many for one post, I think I may crash Blogger if I try and post them all so I'll do the Polka Doodles stuff and the Creative Expressions samples, then I'll do Clarity Stamps and Magazine samples next post.

So Polka Doodles samples coming up. These are a couple of my Design Team projects for the Polka Doodles challenge blog . The papers and text are from A double Sprinkles of Craft CD, the text I printed onto Letrasets Safmat, such a brilliant product if you haven't tried it yet WHY NOT? You can use it on almost anything, the world is your oyster.

I printed images from A double Sprinkles of Craft CD on Safmat for the vase below, I love bees so I was drawn to these little images as soon as I saw them.

An easel card with a difference here, I wanted to make the trees look like they were standing on there own so I made the top part with Acetate. The images are from A Sundae of Seasons CD.

Right Creative Expressions samples now, this first batch is using metalwork on the cards. I also used Spellbinders dies, Creative Expressions embossing folders and stamp sets. I have to say I'm loving the new Steampunk stamps.

The remaining set are using a variety of products all sold by Creative Expressions

That's it for now. Happy crafting to you.

Promoting awareness - cards too.

2011-05-19T08:22:00.000+01:00

Arrrrgh, I've been up since four and sleep is deffo not returning anytime soon by the looks of it, I've watched a repeat of Charmed and repeats of Legend of the Seeker. So I might as well use the time to update my poor neglected blog. I wish I could update more often but life gets hectic or complicated and it somehow doesn't happen. May has turned into a manic month with so much work to get done I'm finding it hard to keep up, and I must confess I think it's taking it's toll now as I'm feeling pretty pants. I'm praying this is not the start of a flare up like last May. That pretty much wiped me out for over a month and it took me months to get back to my normal self (whatever that is).

Living with Lupus is crap, I try very hard not to let it interfere with things too much, but ultimately it does. There are many things I can no longer do, and I've had to learn not to get upset that I can't do those things. Ignoring the fact that housework needs to be done is one thing, but other stuff is an entirely different matter, frustrating and sometimes upsetting.

Lupus is pretty much an unseen illness, rarely do we actually look ill unless we are really bad. We live with pain and fatigue everyday and it doesn't show, most of the time we don't let it show. But I'm sick to death of that 'here we go again, you look fine to me' look that people can't hide when I say I'm too tired or not up to doing something. It sucks people, and it's hurtful whether intentional or not.

I came across a petition yesterday to change the way Lupus sufferers are assessed for DLA and other benefits. I downloaded the form last year to put in a claim, but having filled it out I kind of gave up. I don't fit into their box. I don't need a carer 24/7 and I can walk about, so in their eyes I'm fit to work. Yes I'm fit to work sometimes, but the unpredictable nature of Lupus means I have days when I can't, and how many employers will put up with random days off sick. Even my last employer (NHS) had me up before occupational health on two occasions because I had 3 days off in 3 months. When I got there they told me I shouldn't really be there as I'd had 11 days off in a the year and the national average was 12, considering I have a chronic condition she though I was doing very well. I only look days off sick when I really needed to, I trundled into work when I felt like crap all the time when I should have stayed at home. I'm not alone in this, there are many people out there who do the same regardless of their conditions. A little more compassion is needed. I hated that I felt guilty for being ill, I didn't ask to be ill but I am and with no cure there's not a lot I can do about it. I refuse to apologise anymore or to be made to feel guilty for it.

Oops I seem to have digressed somewhat, getting back to the point of this rant and outpouring please spare a moment and go here to sign this petition, believe me it really would make so much difference to us if we could change this. I freelance from home but I really don't earn much money at all, Colin bless his heart pretty much keeps me without any complaints, but things are hard and we are finding it difficult like so many others to stay on top of the bills and morgage. If I could get some help with DLA (and I'm only talking about help, not a full blown benefit) I would have one less thing to worry about and not be such a burden on Colin.

Could I ask if you would please promote this petition on your blogs, we really need to promote awareness for Lupus sufferers. Some people have never even heard of it, and most people do not realise how it effects us, we have no cure as yet, but with continuing research and a few prayers maybe we will at some point in the future, hopefully not too far in the future. Research is another point I will come to at some point, we need to promote awareness for this illness so we can get more funding. Cancer, heart and children's charities although deserving are not the only ones that need donations.

If you are unsure of what Lupus is then take a look at Tiffany's blog post entitled 'Revealing Lupus Lies', I think it's very informative and a pretty good insight into the illness.

Outpouring and rant over now, thanks for your patience.

Onto crafty stuff now. This is my card for The Polka Doodles challenge the Friday before last (bit late I know, sorry) The challenge was to make an easel card. Now I know they are very popular cards to make, but am I the only one who is just a little bit sick of them? Not that I want to offend anyone, we all after all have our likes and dislikes. I made mine with acetate, just to be a little different and I used the Polka Doodles Sundae of seasons CD

I had a Demo for Creative Expressions this month and the following cards are my sample cards from this. All products are from Creative Expressions obviously

The leaf design on the card above is made using one of Kuretake's corner punches.

The same card in two colour ways

The border punched designs on the two cards above are made with Kuretake's corner punches. They do make lovely borders.

Oodles of samples

2011-05-01T13:54:00.000+01:00

Hi all, what a morning. I was up most of the night drawing and designing. I was inspired and on a roll so I just kept going while the going was good. When it got to 5 I thought I really had to stop though. I woke back up at 6.30 shivering so much my teeth were chattering, WTH that was all about I don't know. Anyway I fell back to sleep and didn't wake up till 10.20 when Colin came down (forgot to say I'd curled up on my reclining chair to sleep not bed). Damn, flip and blast (polite version, lol) I'd missed the first 20 mins of Barbara's (Clarity Stamps) show, so I missed most of the samples being shown. I'm so mad at myself, I really love to see what all the other designers have done with the stamps, and I don't deny it's nice to see your stuff too and see how they look with new eyes.

Before I bombard you with all the Clarity samples I just want to show you a couple of cards that are in the May edition of Making Cards magazine. I used Polka Doodles gorgeous house stamps and Kuretake's Art and Graphic twin tip pens and a Wink of Stella pens to add a touch of gentle twinkling, although it doesn't really show up in photos which is a shame as they really are very pretty.

Don't forget to check out the Polka Doodles challenge blog for some fantastic samples and inspiration by all the girls. Also Nikky is on Create and Craft tonight at 7 and then again at 9am and 3pm (I think) tomorrow.

Now for the Clarity Stamps samples. I hope you like them.

Right that's all for now. I'm off to get some dressed and try and make myself look decent.

Heat guns. Which one do you like?

2011-04-22T13:18:00.000+01:00

Hairdryer style or paint stripper style the heat gun is an essential crafting item. I could not be without it, ever! At my last demo I was using it to dry ink and painted pieces when a lady said 'oh what a good idea, I've never thought of using it for that'. I was gobsmacked, it's never really occurred to me that people wouldn't use it for other things. You don't have to be a card maker to make full use of it either. I use it when I'm illustrating as much as when papercrafting.

In total I have 4 different heat guns. The first one I bought was the DoCrafts one, mainly because that was what my local craft shop sold. I have to say I was never overly impressed with it as it doesn't blow out heat evenly and misses areas. It was however better than nothing and is now in the drawer just in case my others all decide to blow up. My second heat gun was the hairdryer styled one by personal Impressions, very quiet which is brilliant for nighttime crafting, and it's nice and gentle so it's good for the ultra thick embossing crystals and shrink plastic. Like the first one it does seem to miss areas though, and I am on my second one as I managed to burn the first one out. The third heat gun is the Creative Expressions one, over all it's a very good heat gun and until recently it would have been my first choice. The newer versions of this one now have two speeds so it you get the best of both worlds, good quality and versatility. My last heat gun was given to me when I did the filming for Kuretake and in my opinion just beats the CE one by a whisker. It's directional blow is excellent and it heats embossing powders very nicely. It's also pink if that's your thing, personally I'm not a pink lover but I don't hold that against it, lol.

So if you haven't already got a heat gun (why not) or are thinking of getting a new one I would highly recommend the Kuretake and the Creative Expressions heat guns.

This weeks challenge over at Polka Doodles is to use 3 different backing papers. I used papers from the Double Sprinkle of Kraft Cd, added a bow made with raffia and some gems. Check out the blog to see what the talented design team have made.

Below are all the samples from my last Creative Expressions demo. I was demoing the Eco Green products and boy did I have fun with the spackle and paints.

2011-04-08T09:10:00.000+01:00

Hello everyone it's Friday and it's Polka Doodle challenge time. This week it's my turn to set the challenge and I chose a sketch for people to follow. The idea behind it is to make people think and mix up their layers and interlink the different elements. Take a look at what the talented team did with it over here.

I used papers from the new Wonderland CD which I distressed and inked with Weathered Wood distress inkpad. I used some chipboard flowers which I covered with the paper or painted with paint dabbers and added some big brads to the centres. I also used a sentiment from the Polka Doodles Sentiment stamp sheet.

Below are my sample cards for the Clarity Stamps show last Sunday.

Kitten and Verse set

Cottage and Waymarker set

Floral Crook and Sentiment Set

Floral Crook and Sentiment set with the Kitten stamp

Dandelion Fairy and Verse set

Floral Corners and Verse Set

Scotland Framer and Miniatures set

Leafy Bough Frame set

Stamps Stamp set

Take care all

It's mainly alcohol inks then!

2011-04-02T17:21:00.001+01:00

Well here we are again playing silly buggers with Blogger. It won't let me sign in on any of the blogs I have access to on the main pages, but it will log me in to write a post. To be honest it's getting right on my wick, and I'm already in a bad mood. I had a lovely special dinner all planned for tomorrow. As we aren't buying Mother's day pressies for our Mums I thought we'd give them a nice dinner. It's ruined before it's even the day. I'm so disappointed I can't tell you. God knows what the dinner is going to be like! I may as well be cooking a casserole, because that's what it's going to taste like.

OK so enough of my bad mood, here is my card for the Polka Doodles design team challenge. The challenge was set by the lovely Ruth and we weren't allowed to use any printed backing papers. I used elements from A Sundae of Seasons CD, added wooden ladybirds and some spotted candy. For the background I marbled a piece of plain paper using Kurecolor alcohol inks by Kuretake.

On Wednesday I travelled up to Oxfordshire to meet up with Buffy and Steph from Kuretake to do some filming for alcohol ink video tutorials. I had a fabulous time and Buffy and Steph are so nice. I did a spot of marbling with water and then with shaving foam. I had no idea if it would work with shaving foam till I tried it the day before, I was a little worried that the alcohol would react with the foam, but it works just fine although it is a little messy and if you don't like getting inky hands I would wear gloves. I also inked everything I could possibly think of, OK well not everything as time was limited, lol.

I made up some samples the day before but like an idiot I didn't photograph them (might have been something to do with the fact that I was up till 3 that morning finishing things off and packing up all my gear). I gave them some of the samples so I'm waiting for Buffy to send me the pictures when she has a spare minute of two. I do have some pics for you though and when I get the others I will post them. The tutorials will be on the Kuretake website soon so keep your eye's open for them.

I stamped a sentiment on the one above, but I stamped it upside down (you'd think I would have learnt to check first by now, obviously I haven't). I hid it behind the inked metal heart.

I marbled the stamped panel using the shaving foam technique and I inked the sequin waste too.

Ha ha, nothing escaped my mad inking, bubble wrap and shrink plastic (I can hear Lynne screaming now lol) which I double embossed afterwards with clear embossing powder with a light sprinkle of white.

Below are some samples and swatches of different techniques and surfaces.

Marbling with shaving foam of coated cardstock above and plain cardstock below

Marbling with water

Inking on fioled cardstock and sticky-back plastic

Inking onto holographic and foiled cardstock and glass

Inking on mirri card, gloss and satin cardstock

Inking on satin cardstock, acrylic, glass, bottle top and gold heat embossed chipboard

Well I think that's more than enough for now. If you've made it this far I salute you.

Samples and ..... yep more samples

2011-03-27T00:04:00.001Z

Hi all, I feel a mega post coming up, so settle down with a nice drink and maybe a biscuit or two. There's Polka Doodles stuff, the long awaited projects from the Paper Artsy and Tim Holtz workshops and Cakes.

First things first here's my Polka Doodles DT challenge for last week. Sadly I couldn't entre this weeks which was annoying as I had a fab project planned. Maybe it will fit another one in the future.

Like most of the Design Team I used the Alice in Wonderland stamps and papers (what a surprise, lol). I made some tags, but I just couldn't choose which one to use so I used them all. I think the flying hats may be my favourite. Which one is yours. I had great fun making these getting really messy in the process, but it was all worth it. These new stamps are fabulous. I used inks which I spritzed onto the tags, and Tim Holtz Distress inkpads which I also used to colour in with. I also used some Fantasy Film and Fibre on one of them.

I used some Scrummie Blond Moments embossing powders on this one

A Dyan Reaveley (Art From The Heart) inspired one here. I hope I've done it justice.

Now for the sample cards I made with the Alice stamps and papers.

At long last I finally finished off my Tim Holtz and Paper Artsy workshop pieces. Now I just need to find a suitable place to put them *sweeps arm across shelf with boring old cars on*. You don't know how much trouble I'll be in if Colin ever reads this, lol.

We had to think of a word for the Tim project. I came up with diddle!!! I have absolutely no idea why that popped into my head, what a totally random word. I couldn't do something normal like Dream, Inspire or Art now could I? I have to thank Nikky for the idea of putting the truck vertical, sheer genius. What was strange is that most people put their large space in the middle of the box, both Nikky and I put ours at the side. I was in a world of my own ( I think I was still reeling form my random word choice) and didn't even notice till a while later.

The following photos are courtesy of Bethan and Janet. Thanks Ladies.

Just look at all the goodies we were given to play with. And yes, we even got one of those spooky armless mini statues. I wrapped mine up in the tissue tape Egyptian mummy styley and shoved it in the bottle, then glued the cork stopper firmly in place so it couldn't escape (phew, felt so much better once it was imprisoned lol).

Mr Holtz himself

Janet

Bethan

I have no idea what I was doing here. Probably looking for something lost. Yikes note to self, go on a diet, double chins really don't suit me!!!

The utterly fabulous Nikki. Sorry Nikky I just had to add this. I think it was taken just after she had stabbed a tomato and squirted seeds and juice onto Janet's meal and in her drink of coke. This picture really sums up our few days away, lots of giggles and fun fun fun.

Lovely inky, painty hands. Mine were far worse than these!!!

I had an overload of cakes for my birthday, so grateful thanks go to Colin for 2 packets of cake bars, Nikky for delish cupcakes, Kate for brownies (of course) and Marilyn for carrot cake. On the other hand, my ever increasing thighs, tum and backside do not thank you lmao.

Ta ta for now.

That damn cat!

2011-03-16T03:13:00.000Z

Well here I am at 2.20 in the morning, wide awake and boiling hot. The reason? My blunder busting cat has just knocked over a can of coke and I've had to scrub the carpet. Just what I needed after only two and a half hours sleep last night and a belly and a half full of food today, grrrrrr.

And the reason for over stuffing myself? Well it was my birthday. I met up with Mum and Dad for lunch at Midhurst. They don't do snacks at lunch time, they have a proper dinner which I don't normally do. Then OH took me out for dinner/tea this evening. I seriously feel like a beached whale.

I'm sat here watching an episode of CSI for about the fifth time, but what else do you watch at this time in the morning, it's 2 episodes of Charmed on next and then passport control or something similar. I'm well versed in night time viewing as I'm often awake. But tonight I had been asleep till the cat decided to take a flying leap onto the wobbly side table and knock everything flying, and coke is a real bugger for staining the carpet. I always though cats were poised and light on their feet. Not so Baggings, when she sees an opening for my lap she launches like a bull in a china shop and if there's anything in her way, well, it's just tough luck.

Butter wouldn't melt!

I have some sample cards for Clarity Stamps to show you. Barbara asked me to join the Design Team after a couple of people had to step down. I enjoyed making these, although this month I didn't really have a lot of time so I only made a card for each set of stamps. I hope you like them.

No good crying over spilt nail varnish

2011-03-11T09:17:00.000Z

At last, a new post. I can't even remember half the things I wanted to say it's been that long. Oh well, I'll just wing it and waffle on for a bit and hope the old memory gets triggered and starts working again. I can live in hope can't I!

A little while ago I took off the word verification on the comments. I know it can be a pain in the you-know-where, but I have been inundated with spam ever since and it drove be nuts, so I'm sorry to say that it.s now back on.

I had a fab few days away at the end of Feb with the lovely, very funny and accident prone Nikky (brains, artist and owner of Polka Doodles). Seriously you wouldn't believe the trouble she gets herself into. She really should write a book, it would be a fantastic tonic for anyone down or depressed, lol. You just can't help laughing at some of her antics. On our first night at the hotel she managed to knock her nail varnish on the floor. It wasn't content to just land and spill a few drops, oh no, it had to roll round in a big loop leaving a shiny dark trail behind it. So there we are, me on my knees scrubbing away at the carpet like our lives depended on it laughing so much I felt like my ribs had fractured. The fabulous Janet (@craftmad on twitter) was there too and her friend Bethan. Excellent and funny company the both of them, I had the best time ever ladies, thank you so much.

The reason for being away from home was the Paper Artsy and Tim Holtz workshops. Fanbloodytastic. It was so nice just to do something indulgent and just for me for a change. I've been so busy for what seems like forever that I just don't get time to craft for myself anymore. I got completely messy with the inks, paints and matt medium, and I can honestly say I enjoyed every minute of it and it was worth every single penny. Of course Nikky, Janet and Bethan made it all the more special. I don't have pictures of my projects because I haven't quite finished them yet, when I do I will show you all. Also despite taking my camera I never got to take any pictures (shock horror). Janet is going to send me some so I may just post some of those when I get them (assuming she lets me that is, lol).

I've a couple of Polka Doodles design team cards for you to see. The first one is from last week and uses papers form the Sugar Birdies CD and Jingle Jangles CD. The sentiment is stamped using the new sentiment stamp sheet, and I used the large scallop circles nestabilities for the large flower and a scallop circle punch for the 2 smaller flowers. Lots of screwing up of paper and very generous inking added some extra interest to the card.

The second card is for this weeks challenge and I used papers from the Love and cherish CD which I weaved behind a large circle aperture.

Now I have a few sneaky peeks of my latest projects. They don't show you much but I can't reveal until next week, so I thought I'd tease you all a bit, hehehe.

A few cards from the March Making Cards magazine. The first ones used Kuretake's Kurecolor refill inks

The one below uses the Polka Doodles Paper Boutique 3 CD.

And here is his royal cuteness Sammy looking all handsome...........

....... and naughty!

Take care all.

MIA

2011-02-24T07:55:00.000Z

Busy busy busy. I'll be back soon .............................................. promise

Waste not, want not.

2011-02-13T17:18:00.000Z

I've been doing a spot of recycling and have come up with a way to use the left over wax from all those scented candles in glasses. I must admit I do stock up on them when they are on special offer as I burn them in my workroom when I'm in there. You always get wax left in the bottom though, and being a crafter I never throw anything away that might be useful. I always keep the glasses they come in and used to melt the wax and pour away. Not any more though. While I was having a tidy up the other day I came across some small glasses that had had small candles in and this got me thinking. I then remembered I had some wicks, so now I've made my own little smelly candles from the leftovers.

I put the glass with leftover wax in the top oven while my Sunday roast is cooking in the bottom oven. By the time the roast is ready all the wax is melted. I pop a wick in the small glass and pour the melted wax in. There may not be enough to fill the glass but that's fine, just put it to one side until the next one and pour that on top. Carry on till its full. You can make some really lovely striped smelly candles that will change scent as it burns down.

I was also lucky enough to be sent some of the gorgeous new Wink of Stella pens by Kuretake (launching very soon). Oh my what wonderful pens they are. The effect they give is similar to Sakura's Stardust pens, but these are even more sparkly and the nibs are much finer so you can get some beautiful fine lines with them. I have used them on the image below, but it's hard to get a good photo of them. I stamped the Polka Doodle image onto watercolour paper using Zig Art and Graphic Twin pens directly on the stamps, I then bled the colour out with a damp brush. And finally drew over all the lines with the Wink of Stella pens. I love the The Art and Graphic twin pens, they are jam packed with rich pigment and when using them directly on the stamps the ink does not pool like other makes. I've used a lot of different pens and they all tend to pool when applied onto the stamps so I was very impressed indeed.

Below is my DT challenge card for Polka Doodles. All the backing papers and paper elements are form the Love and Cherish CD. I overstamped the main backing paper with some lovey dovey sentiments and the hearts with heart flowers. I added some clear dewdrops to the centre of the flowers for some added dimension.

And last but not least I have a happy tale to tell. I learnt of a 10 year old cat that needed a new loving home. The owner had gone to Chili and left the cat with her sister. We were told that the previous owner had said to her sister that if she didn't want it to chuck it out, WTF!!! Well we heard that the sister had done just that as she was in rented accommodation and was not allowed animals (we did find out afterwards that she was feeding it at least). Anyway I was very upset by this and so were my parents, so they went over to Addlestone and picked the cat up. They are big cat lovers but really didn't want another cat so we went to work looking for a new home for her. I posted a message on Twitter to say we were wanting to rehome the cat. The message got re-tweeted by many people and a lovely lady called Ali contacted me to say her dad had been thinking of getting an older cat. I sent Ali a couple of pictures of Socks (the cat) and told her as much as I could regarding her temperament etc. Ali's dad liked the look and sound of Socks, so yesterday they travelled up to Guildford to collect her. She's now in a lovey rural village with a new owner who I've no doubt will spoil her rotten. It will take her a while to settle down after all the upset, but once she has she will love it there. A really happy ending for Socks the cat don't you think?

A right mixed bag

2011-01-29T10:07:00.000Z

So sorry all, another long gap between posts but I really haven't had time to scratch my you know what, let alone sit down and get my head around blogging. Between all the traveling backwards and forwards to visit Auntie and Uncle and keep an eye on them, I've been madly working to tight deadlines and getting my tax return done and dusted. I hate those forms, I really can't make head nor tail of the damn thing, but I blunder my way through it every year hoping I haven't made any major mistakes that will come back and bite me, lol.

Health wise I've not been great either. My Lupus seems determined to remind me everyday that it's there and not going anywhere. I did drop one of my medications last summer. It is actually chemo drugs used for breast cancer, but in smaller doses it can really help several autoimmune conditions such as Lupus. It did work very well for me keeping the chest, back and shoulder pains at bay, and I only had a few bad flare ups while I was on it. However as with most drugs it does have side effects, and these finally got to the point where I just couldn't live with them anymore. So after a very hard decision and a long talk with my Consultant I stopped taking them, but boy do I know it now. I'm back to all the daily aches and pains and the extreme fatigue. Heyho, that's life, sometimes you get stuck between the devil and the deep blue sea with no apparent way of getting out. It will get better though, positive thoughts can help tremendously so I'm not giving up just yet, or getting down about it. It is what it is, better to find ways of working with and around it rather that than giving in to it, wasting time feeling sorry for myself and getting nowhere.

Within the family we have also had some turmoil and bad news which has made my blood boil. It's rocked my faith in human nature I can tell you, and it's made me very unsettled and unable to concentrate properly (just what I need at the moment!), I just can't comprehend how people can act in such a manor and still live with themselves. So you see blogging has been the last thing on my mind. I may elaborate more on this story later, I'm just waiting to see what happens next.

Enough waffle. Onto some crafting bits and bobs.

Polka Doodles has 2 shows on Create and Craft today (Saturday) at 11am and 3pm. She has some gorgeous new stamps for all and will be demoing her latest CD. Having spoken to her the demos are going to be well worth watching. So if you're going out set those recorders.

Kuretake sent me some more lush goodies to make them a Valentine's project. I decided to do something a little different, so I got a wooden picture frame and a wooden word from HobbyCraft and set to work. This is what I came up with. I hope you like it.

Items used were;

Kuretake

Decoration Heart corner punch

Funky Heart punch

Black Painty pen

Gold Painty pen

Zig Art and Graphic Twin pens – 76, 77, 23, 29 and 260

Heart and Triangle clips pack

Queens Gold Embossing Powder

Red Ribbon pack

Red Assorted Fibre pack

Red Gem Accent Sticker pack

Brown Gem Accent Sticker pack

Zig two-way glue

Other

Plain wooden picture frame - Hobbycraft

Wooden ‘love’ word – Hobbycraft

Selection of vintage style printed papers in creams and brown (I used Brenda Walton Maison papers)

Selection of rubber stamps – Rose spray, dotty background, antique script, floating dandelion seeds, flourishes and suitable sentiment (I used Creative Expessions stamps)

Buff, brown and gold acrylic paints

VersaMark Inkpad

It will be on the Kuretake website next week along with the full instructions for making it.

I have 2 Polka Doodles challenge cards for you today. The first is week 3's card which was to make a project for a new home and I used papers from the the new cd Paper Boutique III. The lush spotty ribbon is from The polka Doodles website as well. The second card is this weeks challenge card (week 4) which was set by Tracie and she wanted to see some party projects.

This is another sample for Nikky using one of the House stamps on acetate, with silver leaf on the back and glaze pens used to colour i in.

Now here are some more cards for you to peruse. The first one is a valentines card which I used an ATC on for a topper. The remainder ones are cards that have recently been in Making Cards magazine.

Have a good weekend all and happy crafting.

I'm back ..... at last

2011-01-17T22:35:00.001Z

Hello everyone, I hope you all had a lovely Christmas and New Year. Christmas was rather hectic but then we had a quiet new year to recover. It has been very hectic since though, hence the neglected blog for which I do apologise. I won't whitter on today as I have loads of pics for you to peruse.

First up my Polka Doodles design team card from last week. Now I made a bit of mistake with this one, I have to admit I did make it in a rush. We had to follow a sketch designed by Nikky (I got that bit and followed) but we also had to use the colours red, white and blue. Unfortunately my brain just didn't hang onto the latter part of the challenge, so my card is not red, white and blue! Am quite angry with myself but I'm blaming it on old age stupidity setting in, lol.

All the papers and elements are from Sugar Birdies collectors edition. The ribbon is by East of India and you can find them at Polka Doodles as well as the CD.

Here are my sample cards for the new Polka Doodles CD, Paper Boutique Vol III. It was a big success and you can get it from here.

Front

Inside

Back

Front. I made his coat and bow from checked material I had.

Inside

Back

Front

inside

Inside

Back

I made the dogs into cats for this one. Dead cute don't you think?

Front

Inside

Front

Back

I've more to show you, but I think this is more than enough for now. The rest will have to wait for the next post.

Happy Christmas One and All

2010-12-24T10:36:00.000Z

Right it's a real quickie today, I had lots to say, but time pushes on so I'll keep it quick.

Firstly, I'd like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year. Yeah I know, It may be hoping for too much, but we can all have dreams can't we?

Here are the last 2 Polka Doodles challenges for you. Don't forget that Nikky has a show on Create & Craft sky671 or freeview36 the the 4th January. Then she has another show on the 8th Jan launching her new CD, so get those dates fixed and don't miss them.

For today's (Friday 24th) challenge I've made a gift bag from a C5 envelope. My main image is Nikky's gorgeous cupcakes which I've stamped onto pale blue card and used silver embossing powder. I then watercoloured it with Aquamarkers. I'm sorry to to say it doesn't show that well in the photo, I seem to be going through a bad photographer phase at the moment! I've used papers from Paper Boutique Vol1 cd, Tea Dye and Stormy Sky distress inkpads, Martha Stewart corner punch, recycled brown card, raffia and eyelets.

I made fun loving 50 year old card for last weeks challenge. All the papers and extra bits are from Sundae of Seasons CD. I edged the numbers with a silver ProMarker, first the fat nib then I went round again with the fine nib. I've added adhesive gems, ribbons and added some faux stitching.

The inside of the card.

Well that's it for now. Enjoy the holiday period. Eat, drink and be merry as the saying goes.

Is there light at the end of the tunnel?

2010-12-16T01:00:00.000Z

Well I managed to get loads of annoying bits and bobs done today, so I'm feeling quite pleased with myself. I didn't manage to get my Aunties all-in-one working properly though. I really think these printers are made not quite right just to keep us all annoyed with them. It's all working except the scanner wirelessly. It's time to contact HP, deep joy!

I do now feel that the light at the end of the tunnel is just round the corner and I will be ready for Christmas. It may not be till midnight Christmas eve, but I WILL be ready. Well actually I have to be, because I've got to cook for 10 this year. And all in my slimline cooker (eeeks), I hope they all have big breakfasts before they come round, lmao. It's going to be a squash in our tiny little home but at least we won't get cold with all that body heat.

It was my turn to set the challenge for last Fridays blog post over at Polka Doodles. The theme I chose was to make a project that would hold a gift of some sort.

I made a Christmas cracker for my project and filled it with jelly beans, but you could put what ever you like in it as long as it fits. All the papers and elements are from Jingle Jangles CD. I just love all the whimsical artwork on it. I added red polka dot and gingham ribbon and used a Martha Stewart punch. I resisted the urge to smother it in glitter.

I had some yummy stash from Kuretake so I set to work on making some samples using them.

Here are the results.

Altered cigar box. I marbled the paper using alcohol inks, then stamped and overstamped using black sparkle embossing powder. The stamps are by Creative expressions.

Glass heart. Alcohol ink on the back, Painty pens and an old Basic Grey rub-on on the front.

Alcohol inks on mirri card. Creative Expressions stamps.

My marbled paper (I was very pleased with the results). Elusive Images stamps.

More marbled paper and a Polka Doodles stamp.

A gift bag made from a C5 envelope, decorated with oriental paper, ribbons and brads.

That's enough for tonight, I need some sleep. Take care all.

Xmas decs and then more decs

2010-12-05T21:10:00.002Z

I'm going to be in so much trouble this year, I've done the unforgivable for a card maker. Yes I've bought ready made Christmas cards. I hear all your loud gasps of horror, but I just don't have the time or energy, and I'm not putting myself through the stress of trying to get them done in time (it's already too late). I have a few made so a few lucky people will get handmade ones.

I had a complete disaster with my Polka Doodles challenge card for last week. I lost the first one I made (still haven't found it), the cat knocked my coke over the second one and then I dropped an inkpad on my third attempt. I gave up at this point so there is no card from me for that challenge. Why do inkpads always land ink side down when you drop them? It's like buttered bread isn't it.

Here are a few Kuretake Alcohol ink projects. There are just over a hundred gorgeous colours and they work the same way as Ranger Alcohol inks or if you are an artist spirit inks.

Here are a couple of test pieces on foiled cardstock.

I've also done a few more decorations for my tree. I came across some wooden decorations in Tescos, the boxes have 10 decorations in them for just £1. Bargain don't you think? Some I triple embossed and stamped into, then filled in the stamped detail with stickles. I used a combo of Blond Moments and Cosmic Shimmer embossing powders. The rest were painted with Ranger paint dabbers, stamped and stickled (is that a word? it is now, lol). I used Polka Doodles xmas and 7Gypsies stamps.

The next ones are die-cut grunge paper, painted, stamped and stickled.

Lastly a few pics of the snow, as if most of you haven't had enough of it. We had loads for us, being on the south coast we either miss it or just get a dusting.

Heeeeelp, Mum I'm sinking!

Yummy new Polka Doodle rubber stamps

2010-11-26T11:48:00.000Z

Nikky has been working her little socks off for you all again and produced some gorgeous new rubber stamps. Yes proper Delicious RED RUBBER stamps. Knowing who manufactures these stamps I can tell you they are top quality and deeply etched. I'm sorry to all you clear rubber stamp lovers but rubber is definitely better in my humble opinion and far more versatile and long lasting.

There are a few exceptions I grant you, one of which being Clarity Stamps which are far superior to other clear stamps and on a par with rubber. They will withstand heat and permanent inks with ease, and there are so many designs to die for it's hard to choose.

I also have to say a big thank you to Kuretake UK for sending me some fabby Kurecolour alcohol inks. The colours are amazing. If you have never used any of their products then give them a go. You really won't be disappointed, again the quality of their Zig pens Etc is second to none. I'm using the inks for a Magazine set, so unfortunately I can't post any pictures of them till they have been published, but as and when I get some time (ha ha) I will use them on a project and post some pics.

I digress so back to Polka Doodles. This weeks challenge on the the PD blog this week was to make a card using the Poem 'Twas the night before Christmas ..........' as inspiration. The design team have made some wonderful inspirational projects so hop over to the Polka Doodles blog and have a butchers.

For my DT challenge card I used the Paper Boutique Vol2 Creative Christmas CD for all the elements and backing papers. Santa and Rudolf won't be going hungry or thirsty this Christmas eve.

Below are four sample cards I made for Nikky with the new stamps. I so wish I had had more time to play further, but alas other work was waiting to be done (nothing new there). These little houses are so cute and all the little elements work so well for making up little scenes. And I love the sentiments, some quirky, some standard but in gorgeous fonts and just so usable.

I used bog standard colouring pencils on the above image and I coloured the one below with Sakura stardust pens.

I used a mixture of Copics and ProMarkers on the below cards

If your squeamish then go no further, I injured myself this week. The table bit back and tried to rip my index fingernail off. Oooooouuuucccchhhh is the polite version of my reaction! It's been a real pain since, It's amazing how much you miss a finger when you can't use it. And boy does it sting when you get alcohol ink in it, I nearly hit the roof I can tell you, lmao.

That's it for now, feel free to feel sorry for my poor finger!

Almost forgot

2010-11-24T21:21:00.000Z

Slapped wristies for me, I forgot to tell you all that Nikky from Polka Doodles will be on Create and Craft TV next Friday 26th November at 8am and she has some brand new lovely products up her sleeve that she will be launching on the show - make sure you watch, record, Sky+ or Internet watch - they're lush!

Samples galore

2010-11-23T10:41:00.000Z

Before I get involved in uploading my sample cards, I'll just remind you all of the blog hop over at Polka Doodles. Fabby prizes galore so pop over to the PD blog and follow the instructions

Right onto all the samples I made for my Creative Expressions Demo last Saturday. I had a lovely day, it was very busy in the morning, which made the day fly past. There was Christmas cake, mince pies and mulled apple juice on offer to everyone. I have to say I thought Witney was a very beautiful little town. They certainly had some very nice eateries there. Anne the owner of the shop (Artbox Witney) was lovely, although being her first demo day she was very excited and very nervous. I'm glad to say it was a success so big phews all round. You can never tell before hand just how it's going to go, so it's always a relief that it goes well.

Not much to say, but plenty of pics!

2010-11-15T20:29:00.002Z

Hello all, I'm here at last. It's going to be a quickie though as I'm going mad making samples and prepping for a demo for Creative Expressions at Oxford on Saturday. I don't know the address yet, all I know is its in a shopping centre area on the outskirts and the parking is free (big plus, lol).

A peek of one of the samples using one of the new Creative Expressions embossing folders. I embossed the design onto acetate, then alcohol inked it and carefully added bronze glitter to the embossed areas. It was a bit of a labour of love, but worth it. It does make quite an impact in real life.

Polka Doodles News ;
Blog Hop and oodles of candy - Make sure you check in on the Polka Doodles blog next Friday for news of the Polka Doodles Blog Hop - There are over £400 of goodies to give away to lots of lucky people and it's a hop with a difference!! Be there or be square!!

My DT cards from the last few weeks (sorry slapped wristies for me, been neglecting my duties again)!

As always they are all made from Polka Doodle products, I'm sorry I don't have time to list the individual products for you, but if you like the look of something leave me a comment and I will get back to you with the relevant info.

Magazine card sets for Making Cards November issue ;

The above was made with one of the Polka Doodles templates and the Crimbo rubber stamp plate.

Polka Doodles DT call

2010-11-10T21:26:00.001Z

We are looking for creative talent to join us here at the Polka Doodles challenge blog.

So if you'd love to get your work seen and have fun please follow the instructions below:

Criteria for Team Members:

You must be able to enter at least 3 weekly blog challenges a month and have a blog.

It is part of your duties to leave comments on the challenge entries on a weekly basis.

You must be able to contribute fully to the team and be able to commit for at least 6 months. Please make sure you really consider this - many people jump in without really considering the commitment we are asking for and what is required.

An important part of your duties is to create samples for Polka Doodles products which will be seen on the website, shows and Create & Craft TV. The deadlines for these samples are very short and are a pre-requisite for the DT members. From time to time you may also be asked to make additional samples as and when required.

Payment: there is no payment for this work, but you will receive Polka Doodles products to enable you to make the samples and your projects and obviously these are free for you to keep and use.

The Design Team call is open to anyone and everyone, no matter what your ability. We have a diverse pool of creative talents and are looking for individuals who can complement the team. This does not necessarily mean we are only looking for advanced crafters, we have a variety of reasons for choosing new members. If you feel proud of your work then please let us see it.

To enter please email Nikky here with a link to your blog and tell us why you want to be on the team.

Closing date for entries is Sunday 14th Nov at 6pm.

Good Luck!! x

I'll be back soon with a new post and piccies.

Inky fingers and blue lips

2010-10-24T21:48:00.000+01:00

Well I had a lovely messy time making my samples for yesterdays demo. There's nothing more satisfying that getting covered in ink and paint. I do now have stained finger nails that look like I have half the garden stuck under them. Very attractive indeed, I think I'm going to have to put some nail varnish on to hide it!

Don't you just hate it when your misters block up, I did the usual of soaking the top and tube in some hot water (which usually does the job very well) but no, it still wouldn't work. So I got this 'good' idea to take the tube off and blow through it. The only problem was I turned it round before I put it between my lips and yes you've guessed it, lovely shimmery blue ink on my lips, pmsl. It did look very odd, but it at least matched my fingers. Coordination is everything, don't you think?

Here are some of the samples I made for the demo, I really loved working with all the goodies. They are all from Creative Expressions, so check out your nearest stockist if you see anything you like.

And here is this weeks Polka Doodles DT card. We had to make a baby project and I think just about all of us used the new cd Sundae of seasons. Pop over to the PD blog and check out the lovely projects made by the rest of the team, they're all stunning. And another reminder about all the gorgeous new stuff that Nikky has got in for the Polka Doodles online shop, luscious East of India ribbons, labels and tapes, Doodly Dewdrops, Fru Fru ribbon packs ......... I could go on all night, just go and have a looksey here.

I forgot to say......

2010-10-20T12:16:00.000+01:00

Honestly sometimes I think I'd be dangerous if I had brains. Mind you it would come in useful now and then, lol.

I forgot to tell you all that I will be demonstrating for Creative Expressions on Sat 23rd October at the Squires Garden Centre at Badshot Lea near Farnham. I'll be making a lovely mess (opps I mean creating gorgeous things) with inks, paints, mica powders and embossing powders. I'll also be using some beautiful stamps and Rangers Idea-ology products, yummy.

So if your in the area come and say hi and get some inspiration.

Where have I been!!!

2010-10-19T17:12:00.001+01:00

Good question that. Working, working and er mm working, not much else really. I did have a day off when my best friend from Cornwall came for a visit. Much laughing and gossiping was done, and we put the world to rights. I have been neglecting my poor blog I'm afraid to say, not on purpose, I've just found it difficult to find the time when my brain is working to write a new post. Please forgive me, I do get here in the end.

I've got some cards to show you all and some news of some lovely new ot some must have bits and bobs. Nikky over at Polka Doodles has got some luxurious new East of India products in. You can choose from the most gorgeous ribbons, labels and string. She also has some new Frou Frou ribbon packs and bling and Doodle Dewdrops and Bugs. You really can't miss them.

Dyan over at Art From the Heart has launched her new Dylusions rubber stamps to go with all the other products from the Dylusion range, something else deffo worth a look at.

This is the last Polka Doodle challenge card I did. It is now a few weeks old now but heyho better late than never.

And here are some cards made for Making Cards Magazine.

Sunday blues and weddings

2010-09-26T15:32:00.001+01:00

Hello all, well I'm feeling a little worse for wear today. I'm actually planning on staying in my PJ's and just doing 'sweet fanny adams'. Yesterday was a little hectic as we had been invited to 2 weddings. A bit daunting for me as I didn't really know anyone from either, the first one being friends of Colin's from the pub, and the other being one of Colin's workmates.

Colin went to the ceremony for the pub couple on his own, I chickened out of that part but we both went to the pub reception straight after, it's a good job they started that one early as we could at least make it to both receptions, and yes two lots of food, lol.

I got all poshed up too, with a raspberry knitted tunic dress thingy, a slinky ankle length black skirt and a black asymmetric cardy, then to top the outfit off (or bottom it as the case may be), I ended up wearing my black biker boots (nice and dainty don't you think, lol). Well I did put on some black shoes, but my feet were freezing before I'd even left the house, so being a person that goes for comfort over beauty the boots won hands down.

These are the wedding cards I made. They should have been quick cards, and indeed they look like quick cards, but somewhere along the line the clock went into double time and I have no idea how they took so long, lol. I used Polka Doodles Love a Cherish CD for these, I was told both couples would appreciate contemporary cards so that's what they got.

Sammy was looking real cute this morning so I grabbed the camera while the going was good.

Sorry for the doggy overload, but I just love the little monkey to bits, he makes me smile and giggle every day. He also gets told off every day lol.

A card set from a recent Mag article.

More Polka Doodles with this weeks blog challenge, which is to make a project with a hidden element. The design team have made some gorgeous projects to get your creative juices flowing so take a look for some of that all important inspiration. Here's my card.

I used the new cd Sundae of Seasons for all the papers and elements, the yellow nameplates are all ready to have a message written on them for the recipient. The cards below are all cards I made for Nikky and the launch of the new cd.

Cards galore

2010-09-19T01:39:00.000+01:00

Hello all, a longer post today, have loads of pics to show if I have the patience to load them all. I've managed to catch up a bit with work and got a few card sets for Making Cards done and posted off. They'll be coming up between now and the December issue. So if you get that mag, look out for them. Other than work I've not really done much else, sad and boring I'm afraid!

Oh yes, I did watch a real 'feast for the eyes' film the other night. It was Once upon a time in Mexico (I think) and it had Antonio B, Johnny D and Enrique I in it. It was almost too much with all 3 in, but it kept me glued to the screen and wide awake. No falling asleep before the end of that one I can tell you. Ooo I'm getting flushed just thinking about it, lol.

Have any of you got a halogen oven? I've just acquired one, and the first thing I cooked in it was a chicken. OMG it was amazing, so moist and succulent, both Colin and I even enjoyed eating the breast, which in this house is always left till last and normally put in a pie. We both like the skin, wings, drumsticks and thighs in that order, but neither of us are keen on the breast meat.

Talking of food and pies I made Colin a huge Yorkshire pud earlier in the week. I don't know why, but I just can't make small ones, after all you can't make it any smaller than 1 egg now can you. But mine always grow rather large. It's such a shame, cos Colin loves them and I don't and they're always too big for one person. I could tell you all what the secret ingredient is, but then I'd have to kill you. And quite frankly prison does not appeal, so the secret stays with me and Marilyn.

I've just got some new spellbinder dies from Polka Doodles ( great prices) and I've had a little play. Here's a few that I made. Nice and simple with nothing elaborate, difficult or long winded.

I just love the snowflake ones, so effective.

Here's some Mag cards that have been in recently. The first ones are using Woodware stamps and some of Joanna Sheens backing papers. The second set is using WS Designs templates, DCWV and Craftwork Cards papers.

This week over at the Polka Doodles blog the challenge is to make an easel card. This is also a little sneak peek at some of the papers and elements from the summer section of the new cd Sundae of Seasons. It's a real winner this cd, jam packed full of characters, embellishments and the sweetest of sweet backing papers. I really enjoyed using it. The new cd airs on Create and Craft 10am on Monday. Don't miss it please, it's an amazing collection of fabby images and the samples are going to inspire the life out of you.

Ssshhhhh, don't tell anyone, here's another sneaky peek using the papers from the winter section of the new cd.

And lastly here's a couple of cards made with Polka Doodles templates, you can have so much fun with these and dress them up to the nines or keep them simple.

Phew, that's it for now. Have a good and craftful week.

Just a short one

2010-09-12T20:49:00.000+01:00

I'm here again, but it's a quick one tonight. I'm not feeling great physically or emotionally so please forgive the short post and long gaps between.

Polka Doodles have a new cd which will be aired on Create and Craft on the 20 September. It's a real cracker and I've really loved working with it. If you went to the Harrogate show then you may have had a sneak peek of it. Unfortunately I didn't make anything for this weeks challenge over at the Polka Doodles blog due to being way too busy. Anyway I have my card for last weeks challenge which will have to do for now.

Ooo, my mistake, I actually made two last week. The challenge was to make a shaped card with one of Polka Doodles new templates. I chose the Baking/Gardening one and Hugo Panda Paws. However I turned Hugo into a dog, although he looks more like a rabbit to me. I used papers from the Paper Boutique Vol 2 cd which I printed onto iridescent white paper.

A blissful crafting area

2010-08-27T08:45:00.000+01:00

I'm here at last. I seem to be continuously chasing my tail these days, will I ever catch up is the big question, well I'll try, but after 3/4 weeks off any work there's a lot of backlog to plough through. It wouldn't be so bad if it was just home stuff or work, but both suffered badly and now I'm paying the price. But it will all get done eventually, no good worrying about what you can't change because it just drives you crazy. I learnt a long time ago that getting all stressed about things you can't change just shortens your life and makes you very unhappy. It's just not worth it, enjoy what you can while you can, because you can't get it back once it's gone.

Right onto lighter and brighter things with Polka Doodles. I've a couple of challenge cards for the last two weeks and a couple of other projects I made. I'll start with the challenge for this week which is to follow a sketch and only use 3 colours, and has been set by Nikky. I found came across a backing paper I had printed off and never used, it jumped out at me as it was bright and breezy which at the moment with this dismal August gloom was a breath of fresh air. That was the starting point for my colours, blue, green and orange. I used one of the new Stamp Doodles rubber stamps for my main image which I coloured in with AquaMarkers. The papers are from Sugar Birdies and Candy Doodles cd's and the stamp is Butterfly House. You can find them all on the Polka Doodles online shop along with so much more scrummy stash.

The challenge for last week was set by Fliss and we had to make a card with a vintage theme. I used the Not For Girls cd as it has quite a bit of vintage style papers, images and ephemera.

Now for the 2 other projects I made for Nikky. I wanted to use PD's lovely stamps for something other than cards, and this is what I came up with. The candle uses the Christmas Doodles rubber stamp plate and the candle holder is silk paper decoupaged and uses one of the Fairy Flutterfly stamps. I enjoyed doing these, it's always nice to do something different for a change.

Now don't forget about the fab comp on the Polka Doodles website to win the whole set of AquaMarkers. You don't have to be a brilliant colourist to entre, it's not just being judged on colouring skills, but potential and effort. So have a go, you may just be lucky.

I have been very busy with my workspace too, and after a lot of hard thinking and gentle persuading the dining room/workroom has now been transformed into my workroom/office/studio (posh eh). The Dining table is now in the living room and we actually use it now for it's original purpose, the PC and desk is now in the workroom and I bought myself a nice new desk to craft/work on. I cannot tell you how much it has improved how I work and feel. It has made my working life so much easier and nicer. The desk has storage areas either side of it, and I've put all the things I use on a regular basis in them so they are right at hand when you need them. They hold oodles of boxes so it's made my big cupboard better too. No more moving a layer of boxes just to get to my coloured card. Pure bliss I can tell you. The desk came from Staples and had 25% off. It's a nice deep one so no losing stuff that falls of the back, and while I wasn't keen on the shiny white surface or the curved sides it is a joy to work on and I really recommend it as an art and craft work area. Just look at my room now, well then, I've updated the temporary file trays on the desk now so it does look a little different, but not that much really, just better. There are still Colin's model Jags on the shelves but at some point when we redecorate the living room (don't hold your breath for anytime soon, lol) they will probably move in there, and then I will be able to organise things even better. The chair makes the desk look quite small, but it's actually really big.

I'm doing this the night before tomorrow, so I'm off to bed and will post this then. Confused? me too lol.

Bad blogger!

2010-08-06T09:05:00.000+01:00

Hello, what a bad blogger I am being at he moment! I am however finally feeling a lot better, thank heavens, so hopefully I will get back to it on a more regular basis (well we can all live in hope). I popped into see Marilyn (Colin's Mum) yesterday and she said that I finally have some colour back in my cheeks. I have to admit I was getting a little sick of seeing the ghost looking back at me in the mirror, lol.

Now everyone, don't forget about the amazing competition to win a whole set of Letraset Aquamarkers on the Polka Doodles blog, you'll find details on my previous post and on the PD blog, plus Nikky is doing a tutorial on how to use them each week, so get yourself over there and check it out.

This weeks challenge over at Polka Doodles is to follow a sketch, and it was originally set by Kerry. Sadly Kerry has made the decision to leave the Design Team. Kerry has been on the team right from the beginning and we will all miss her lovely design projects and messages. Anyway, getting back to the challenge which the lovely Jenny stepped in to oversee. I decided to make an A4 card this week as an added challenge, I also wanted to use the Christmas Doodles rubber stamp plate. One reason for making the large card was to show that you really don't have to have a large image just because you are making the card large. I know a lot of crafters are wary of making these, but you really shouldn't be, don't let size put you off, it's really no different from making smaller cards. Go wild and give it a go for the special people in your lives. I used the juicy Aquamarkers for the stamped image, but I used them directly onto the stamps them bled out the reindeer and the tree trunk with a a damp paintbrush. The backing papers are all from the Jingle Jangles cd, which I have to admit is one of my favourites. Just add the brads, ribbon and stickles and hey presto, you've got yourself a lovely card.

Here is my card from last weeks challenge which was set by Nikky and we had to make something generic that could be given to a male or female. I used one of Nikky's new templates, this one is called Dee's Double Diamond and it makes a really sweet little card that you can do all sorts with. I first made this card a couple of years ago for one of the Making Cards special editions magazines and it proved to be very popular. Nikky has produced 15 new fantastic templates. There are pop-outs and shaped cards and they are really versatile, so why not pop over to the shop and have a look at them. The decoupage owl and the backing papers are all from the Mr Twitty collection on the Paper Boutique Vol 1 cd.

Now for some card sets that I made for Making Cards. I had great fun with this first set, and I was really pleased with how they turned out. Sometimes you have what you think is a brilliant idea, and when you actually make them it turns into a nightmare and you wish you hadn't started. I'm glad to say that wasn't the case with these.

And these are the cards I made with Dots and Spots decorative tape. I just love her artistic style and as soon as I saw these tapes I had to have some and get creative with them.

And some more Polka Doodles products, This time the Fairy Flutterfly stamps which are just adorable. \This set was all about paper piecing and I used some lovely Basic Grey papers and peach card for flesh areas.

Sammy hasn't made an appearance for a while so here's a quick couple of pics of him. He's been so good with me while I was poorly, we had many a snugly cuddly hour in front of the telly.

I'm back ....... Well sort of!!!

2010-07-24T08:57:00.000+01:00

Well hello everyone, I am back at last and updating my post. I'm sorry for the long absence but I've been proper poorly, at one point I had to crawl up the stairs and come back down on my bum as I couldn't trust myself not to fall down the flaming things and my legs just wouldn't go high enough for me to even get in the bath. A very sorry state of affairs I can tell you (big pantomime ahhh please, lol). But I am at last improving even if I still keep falling asleep all over the place.

I had a little trip out yesterday to Amanda's Hobby Hideout at Selsey, I had some sample cards for Amanda that I should have given her a very long time ago, and I needed to get a few Christmas bits for magazine projects. I wasn't disappointed as there were lots of new Christmas bits to choose from. It is a problem sometimes getting new Christmas bits so early for magazine work, but I'm glad to say manufacturers and retailers are starting to get them out a bit earlier now. After a very pleasant chat I paid for my little armful of goodies and came home, sat down and promptly fell asleep for 2 hours to recover. Honestly you'd have thought I'd just run a marathon I was that knackered. Heyho it can only get better can't it.

I have some very sad news too. Early on Tuesday last week we got a phone call to say Colin's Dad had been rushed into hospital. Colin went straight up a short time later when his younger brother phoned to say things were not looking good. He had a big bleed in his head and there was nothing they could do. Gobsmacked is an understatement for how I felt I can tell you. Despite Trevor having had a heart problem for many years it was still totally unexpected. I think most of the family that could get down came and sat at the hospital and after a long fight Trevor passed away at 12.45 on Wednesday morning. I am devastated. I loved him like my own father and I still can't quite believe it has all happened, It's taken all my will power not to show how upset I am in front of Colin as I know it would make things far worse for him, but boy'oh'boy it's so hard. Over the years Colin's parents have done so much for us that we will never be able to repay them. Trevor truly had a heart of gold and I know it won't be long before he's donning those angel wings and helping us as only angels can.

Onto Polka Doodles news. And what news it is too. PD is running a fantastic competition in conjunction with those clever people at Letraset. There are fabulous prizes so don't be shy, get those creative juices going and give it a go. Click on the link above to get the full details, but here is what the lovely Nikky wrote on the Polka Doodles blog -

'we have a MEGA competition for you and even MEGA-er-er prizes!!

For the past few months I've been working very closely with Letraset who are the clever people behind the fabulously lush Promarker brand and have been doing some product testing etc for them. Now, this month, hot off the press, Letraset are relaunching their fabulous AQUAMARKER brand

which are basically a WATERCOLOURING marker pen unlike any other I've used.

Aquamarkers have been available for years but in the past they have generally been used by Artists and professional Graphic Designers etc. BUT now we crafters have discovered them Letraset have listened to what we're asking for and are now adding a further 20 colours to the brand which takes the range up to 40 fantastic colours, BUT as they are watercolours you basically can mix any number of colours and shades you want to achieve the massive gamut of 256million squillion colours! Well, ok maybe not quite 256 million squillion, but not far off!

As I've had my hands on the only set of new colours in the UK other than a set in Letraset HQ I've had time to play a little the last couple of weeks, so, I have managed to twist the Marketing Director's arm very hard and he has kindly agreed to donate a FULL SET OF NEW AQUAMARKERS (40 pens, RRP £79.99) to the winner of our fabulous competition!
In addition there will also be some runner up prizes of smaller packs of Aquamarkers too, so a fantastic chance to win for everyone!

Sooooo...you want to know what you gotta do don't you?WELL, basically we all LOVE colouring in don't we...so we thought we would make this a colouring competition so ANYONE can have a go! We want you to make a card, scrapbook page or any other papercrafting project where you have used a colouring technique - this can be either watercolours or you can use your Promarkers, Sakura pens, Prisma's, watercolour pencils etc, basically any type of medium that gives you a watercolour-type effect.
Now, don't forget this is open to anyone who just loves to colour so don't think that you will only be in with a chance if you're the world's best watercolouring expert - the winning entry could be someone who shows promise and if we think that person could improve their technique massively if they had great products, it could be anyone! So come on, have a go, we want to see your fabulous creations!!
The closing date for entries is 12:00 gmt on Sunday 29th August, so you have LOTS of time to enter and get some practice in! In the meantime, make sure you check back here every Friday as each week until the closing date I will be doing a mini tutorial step by step to show you some techniques using both Promarkers AND Aquamarkers.'
So don't be shy, anyone of any ability can entre. You don't have to be an expert in watercolouring so please don't be put off if it's something you've not really done much of, or if you think you're rubbish. Just remember we are never as bad as we think we are, so take a deep breath, dive in and lose yourself in the pure pleasure of colouring in. I've had a set of Aquamarkers for some years now and they are still going strong. There is so much more you can do with these pens other than using them as ink for watercolouring. They are very juicy and perfect for direct to stamp application which really does give a lovely effect, especially on floral stamps.

And even more exciting Polka Doodles news. If you went to the show at Donnington last week you will have seen the Polka Doodles stand and already be aware of all the new goodies that the ever busy Nikky has had produced for us all. Oodles of luscious new stamp designs, all in deep cut rich red rubber already cut out and mounted onto cling foam. No messing about, just stick it straight onto an acrylic block, ink and stamp away to your hearts content. There's also 15 devine 'plastic' templates for shaped and pop-out cards. They are amazingly versatile with many having extra elements so you can really go to town and make some super stunning cards/projects. So get over to the shop and have a looksy, give them a try and you won't be disappointed with the results. And while you're there have a browse at all the other wonderful stash that's available. Be a devil and treat yourself to something nice, you know your deserve it!

Here is my DT card for this weeks challenge on the PD blog. Kris set the challenge this week and the theme is Christmas in July. I used one of Nikky's new stamps (well it would have been rude not to now wouldn't it?) which I coloured in with alcohol pens. I used papers from Jingle Jangles cd and did a spot of lining with a gold Promarker to highlight the shapes. Yes you heard me right, I did say gold Promarker, and of course there is silver too, I love using them as they are not garishly bright and in your face.

More cards I made with a few of the new stamps. I've used the Aguamarkers for most of these so you can see the lovely results you get when watercolouring with them. I even used them for a wash background on one of the bird cards. I hope you like them, I really enjoyed making them, even with a raging temp and aching body that didn't want to obey me I couldn't put them down.

And just a couple using the beautiful Flutterfly stamps but making them Christmassy. The first one is using a faux bleaching technique and the second is using real bleach on the image.

Well that's it for now. Hopefully it won't be so long before the next post. Remember to take the time to cherish all the good things in your life and make the most of them. If your popping by please spare a moment leave me a comment. I love to read them and really appreciate the fact that you took the time to do it.

Much luv, Dee xxx

2010-07-15T15:09:00.002+01:00

Dee is a bit poorly at the moment. She will be back as soon as she is able.

The missing member of our family ....... Tears of joy

2010-07-02T09:54:00.001+01:00

It's Friday already, how the heck did it come round so fast. I'm feeling a little under the weather today. I had planned to take the dog for a nice walk on the beach at 7.30 this morning, but I just couldn't get the enthusiasm up and running in time. I think it's stayed in bed, I have searched for it but it's hiding well in the folds of the duvet and not coming out for anything, lol.

Over the last week I have been clearing the garden and managed to fill the car up and make the trip to the dump 3 times, and I'm still not finished. It's only a small garden so I have no idea why it was so much. And, I'm still not finished! I ran out of steam halfway through the holly tree, which is I have to admit looking a little odd only half done. Oh well it will just have to stay that way till I get me some more energy and time. Anyone know a good shop where you can get it? lmao.

On Wednesday I met my 20 year old niece Laura for the first time. It's been an emotional month or so for our family I can tell you. I won't bore you with the details, but we always knew she was out there somewhere and a short while ago Laura with her mothers help and blessing contacted my brother. We are all pleased as punch and over the moon. She is a lovely, beautiful young lady and I'm looking forward to Laura coming to stay for a few days in the near future. Can't say I'm looking forward to be called Auntie Deanne, It makes me feel old and it's only my Mum and Aunties that ever call me Deanne so I'm going to have to work on that one.

Right lets get my head back to work and craft, not so easy at the moment with so many things rushing round and round in my head, lol. The challenge on the Polka Doodles blog this week was set by Claire and is to make a decorative item for the home. I chose to make a Christmas banner with the new cd Paper Boutique Vol 2. Sorry about the pics, but it's not exactly the easiest thing to photograph.

The sample cards below are all made from the new cd. The shaped cards are all such fun and will make a real wow when you make and send them out to friends and family.

I made this card so it would tip backwards and forwards, just a bit of fun and it makes it slightly different.

I used the blank templates over the backing papers for the holly wreath.

And another use of the blank templates using Cosmic Shimmer spritzed card this time, then I stamped round the edge using a snowflake stamp from the Christmas Doodles stamp plate.

Have a good weekend everyone. Enjoy the sun if you get it.

Been MIA again. Oops

2010-06-25T13:11:00.001+01:00

Hello all, sorry to say I have been awol again! I've been super busy but is that really an excuse. Hmm, well it is for me. I don't know how you all manage it on a daily basis, someone please tell me your secret, lol.

Before I go further here is my Polka Doodles DT card for last week, which was to make a card/project for Fathers day or just male themed. There's 2 days left for this challenge if you want to entre. The challenge this week was set by Brenda and it's make something for a boy. So have a poodle over to the blog and see what the talented team have made.

Sunday sees the launch of the new Polka Doodles cd, Paper Boutique Creative Christmas. So get that remote away from the OH and tune into Create and Craft at 2.00pm. I've had great fun working with this cd and it offers you something a little different to make some fabulous projects for Xmas that will really wow all your friends and rellies.

And for some more superscrummymusthavestash take a look at the very talented and lovely Dyan Reaveley's new Altered Originals, all available from Art From The Heart. If you are a fan of Altered art then these are a must have, seriously once you have them in your sticky mitts you won't know how you managed without them. But wait just one minute, these fab downloads and gorgeous bright spay inks can be used for so much more, they can be used for all your crafting projects, be it cardmaking, scrapbooking or interior items. The skies the limit, just let your imagination take you on a new colourful journey and see where you end up.

Dyan, I hope you don't mind me pinching the pics from your blog, but I really wanted to show everyone the gorgeous colours. And thank you so much for posting the pics of the BM cards and your lovely comments.

And a BIG thank you to Becky of Dots and Spots for her blog post on the 23rd June. I made a set of cards for Making Cards Magazine using the wonderful decorative adhesive tape she designed. They are featured in the July issue of MC and Becky said some lovely things about me (blush blush), so thank you muchly Becky it's much appreciated.

Again I have 'borrowed' the pics from Becky's blog, I hope you don't mind hun (notice how I've gone from pinch to borrow, sounds so much better don't you think?).

Ta ta for now. I will be back next time with pics of all the cards I've made with the new Polka Doodles CD.

Can't think what to say!

2010-06-11T23:59:00.000+01:00

It's late, I'm knackered, and I can't think of a flippin thing to say! I may come back later and add some more but for now, you'll have to make do with a few pics.

To start with, here is this weeks Polka Doodle challenge set by the lovely Nettie. I found this one hard not having any children, I had to dig deep trying to think back to my childhood! The theme to this weeks challenge was to make a project with the theme of nursery rhyme. Here is my attempt.

And here are the cards from Making Cards magazine this months. The first 2 sets are made using WS Designs templates, the last set is stitched on material the mounted onto card then fixed to the card.

Till next time, keep well.

Airport rip-off

2010-06-07T17:58:00.000+01:00

Well it's been another busy week and weekend. I had to go to Southampton airport on Saturday morning to pick Colin up. His flight was delayed by 2 hours in total, luckily I found out just before I was due to leave. My journey was longer than his so I almost missed his call. What a rip-off airports are, WH Smiths were charging £1.65 for a small bottle of Pepsi. How can they justify it? They really should charge the same as they do in the rest of their shops. And the parking, just don't get me started, £3.60 for 35 mins, I'll say no more or I'll be ranting for next 3 hours.

I have another trip to Kettering next week, I'm considering getting a tent as a cheaper alternative to hotel bills. It will be worth it though, It's training for a new product that I think is very exciting, so I'm looking forward to it.

Better late than never, isn't that what they say? With that in mind here is my DT card from last Friday for Polka Doodles. The challenge was to make a modern/retro anniversary card. So if you fancy a go bob along to the blog and check out the other DT ladies challenge cards for some inspiration.

Just a quickie today I'm afraid, hopefully I'll have more for you next time.