I'm into something good

Ribbon storage

2012-01-20T03:32:00.000-08:00

Found this website today- love the mag, and the blog looks great too! Love the cup cake stand idea :-)

www.wherewomencreate.com

Not forgotten!

2012-01-10T07:42:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone. I'm sorry I haven't updated my blog in quite a while. I have been having problems uploading photos and haven't been able to sort the problem out as yet. Will get my son on it on Saturday. I had tons of Christmassy things to post but it just didn't happen. Still, onwards and upwards :-) Its a new year and I love that! There is something wonderful about new beginnings. Use them to motivate you into making the changes that you want in your life, I am! It's the crop on Saturday. It will be good to see everyone. I need to get on with a demo- eeekkk! I have embryonic ideas but that's about it. How about setting some creative goals? I plan to work more on the life history albums that have been in progress for ages. What are your goals?

Another tag idea!

2011-11-17T01:35:00.000-08:00

Saw this in pinterest, LOVE it! It's from http://www.2gypsygirls.com/search?updated-max=2011-11-04T08:00:00-07:00&max-results=7 where you can buy the kit, or maybe you can make your own from all the scraps you have?

Christmas tags

2011-11-16T08:53:00.001-08:00

I've got that Christmassy feeling! Been playing with some different techniques, one of which I found on Tammy Tutterow's blog.

http://tammytutterow.typepad.com/tammy_tutterow/2011/11/tuesday-tutorial-frosty-deboss.html

You will find a full tutorial there on how to use distress crackle paint to make the snowflakes look frosty. Seriously great idea :D The photos above are my takes on festive tag ideas. Click on any picture to enlarge. Get those inks out and get messy!

25% off at Hobbycraft

2011-10-31T14:00:00.000-07:00

Just had a voucher from Hobbycraft. 25% off everything! It can only be used this thursday from 2pm. Here's the link to download yours :-)
http://www.hobbycraft.co.uk/Assets/Downloads/20_voucher.pdf?utm_campaign=20111020%20-%20Friends%20&%20Family%2025%&utm_source=emailCampaign&utm_medium=email

oohhh pinterest

2011-10-26T13:33:00.001-07:00

http://www.pinterest.com/ is so full of fab ideas! I love this one. I will be making one of these for my daughter-in-law for Christmas. Let's hope it looks a bit like this one ha ha! I found the creator - Jess, her blog is

http://scrapgoo.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2011-09-16T09%3A00%3A00-04%3A00&max-results=7 and there is another view of it on there. I will add a photo of mine when it's done. I am already feeling just a little excited about the festive season :-) I popped into Hobbycraft today, and it's better! They have moved things around, have more samples, have a good. though small, section devoted to all things Tim Holtz, and the prices have come down quite a bit on dies amongst other things. Have a visit, and call in to see me and say hello. I only live round the corner xx

Craft channel

2011-10-04T10:09:00.000-07:00

I'm loving the new craft channel www.mycraftchannel.com You can watch crafts shows on the internet with scrapbooking celebs like Teressa Collins etc. It's new and there are a few glitches, so be patient, but I thinks it's going to be really good :-)

Rag Quilt for our latest addition

2011-09-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the world Heidi! My son Matt and daughter-in-law Martha had little Heidi on Wednesday. She is so adorable- I am amazed at the overwhelming feelings of love that I have for her already :-) I love being a grandma, and all that it entails. I made my first quilt for Heidi. It's a rag quilt, quite easy and enjoyable to make. There are some tutorials on youtube that I followed. I'm thirsty to do more!!

Film

2011-08-28T13:57:00.000-07:00

We are part funded by Staffordshire Adult and Community Learning Service. Some time ago they gave us the opportunity to have a film made about us that can be mutually used for publicity. This is it! Thanks to all those who were willing to be filmed. Sorry to those who didn't make the final cut. I would like it to be known I had no say whatsoever in the content!! I think it gives a good flavour of our crop. Well done everyone.

Free motion embroidery

2011-08-25T02:17:00.000-07:00

I am loving all the cute free motion stitched pictures that are around at the moment. I did a class at Carol's last week, and have been playing. These are my first attempts. I also treated myself to Poppy Treffry's book, 'free and easy stitch style' which is excellent. It begins with the basics and has quite a few cute project ideas.

The Weekend

2011-08-18T08:10:00.000-07:00

I had a fabulous weekend! Kevin and I sat on a committee to help organise a singles weekend for 25 plus age group for our church. We had about 400 delegates, and had lots of fun. Everyone was so friendly and out to have a great time. My contribution was to order some massage chairs and a chocolate fountain for 450 for the dance. Well, that was the right choice for me, loved both! A massage chair is now on my Christmas list ha ha! I also ran a scrapbook class, and met some great people, and some expert scrappers as well as newbies. I love that feeling when people go away from the class happy with something they have made. Joy! My daughter Becky came along, and had a go at bungee trampolining and the climbing wall. Of course, I would have too, but was just too busy (oh yes I was). Enjoy summer, there's not much of it left. I plan to get as many picnics and bbq's in as I can :-)

New die and crop

2011-08-08T03:44:00.001-07:00

I've been playing with our new die for the big shot:-) It makes great mini books and will cut through mount board so perfect for the covers.

Also, there is another great free download from Cloth, Papaer, Scissors- here's the link: www.clothpaperscissors.com/free-fabric-artprojects/?a=cpse110808

Don't forget it's the crop on Saturday. I won't be there, but will miss you all! Enjoy :-)

July Crop

2011-07-01T11:03:00.000-07:00

I'm excited about the July crop!!!!! We are having a little film made about us on the crop day. Because of that, we have some extra funding so I am putting together a free class for anyone who wants to do it. I have ordered some things which should come tomorrow so I can put together some samples. We will be playing with craft glassine and our Tim Holtz dies, including a new one....yay!!

Free Vintage Ephemera Downloads

2011-06-29T02:27:00.000-07:00

Had an email newsletter from Stampington with some really cute downloads. Here's the link: www.stampington.com/artisan_avenue/2011/june/download.html

FREE COLLAGE E BOOK

2011-06-27T04:49:00.000-07:00

Cloth Paper, Scissors has a really nice free download today. It's only takes a few seconds to download and has some great ideas in it. You need to sign up and give your email address, but I like getting emails from them anyway! They usually have something to get the creative juices flowing :D Here's the link.
www.clothpaperscissors.com/mixed-media-collage/

Art Journaling pages

2011-06-19T04:36:00.000-07:00

These are just a few pages from my little A6 art journal, loving doing it! I will have it full in no time at this rate!

Holiday purchases

2011-06-19T04:29:00.000-07:00

Couldn't resist a trip to Crafty Devils in Barnstaple. I also scoured the charity shops and got some little treasures. Bit of a milinery theme going on here me thinks!

Holidays and Creativity

2011-06-17T00:38:00.000-07:00

Well, we've been in Devon since Saturday, and it's been a wonderful week. We have had 2 caravans on the North Devon coast, our 3 children and their families. The grandchildren have been such a lot of fun! They live so fully! Every moment is packed with interest, questions, enjoyment, joy. They know what it is to live 'in the moment'. We can learn so much from them. I love that they tell it like it is, even our 18 month old lets us know what she wants, and what she thinks.. So, it's been busy but I have still managed to do some art journalling. I try to make all my art meaningful, I don't want to leave a legacy of art that doesn't have a message, but that's just me. My art journal has a theme of passing on what I have learnt about enjoying life. I put together a kit, with my little travel journal, pens, mini watercolour set, glue and scissors. I scoured the charity shops in Barnstaple and found a fab old book about French artists, which has lots of great images I have been cutting out and jazzing up for my pages. I will upload some of them when I get home. I have loved being creative in this inspiring and beautiful environment. If you are going on your holls, don't forget to pack some craft things.

Saturday's workshop

2011-05-16T05:43:00.001-07:00

Carolyn's piece- beautiful!

Ellie's lovely art. I love the colours on this one.

Ruth's work.

Ruth brought some of her wonderful pictures along for us to be inspired by. Ruth is a good teacher, very easy to listen to and she has a way of making you feel like you can do it! So many of our group did beautiful monoprints. I am putting two on here, but there were many really lovely pieces of work.

Ruth Allen Art Workshop

2011-04-27T11:42:00.000-07:00

I am so looking forward to the next crop on 14th May! Ruth Allen will be coming to do a workshop for us. Note the picture is from her website : http://www.ruthallenart.co.uk/ The workshop will be for a couple of hours in the morning, free to us all, paid for by a grant we received for adult learners week. Kevin has been on holiday this week so we are having a great time, enjoying the weather, walking, shopping, and behaving like tourists in our own town! It's fun.

Bits 'n Bobs

2011-03-28T12:47:00.000-07:00

Gel Pen Bargains - Some little snippets of information for you. Hobbycraft are selling Signo gel pens for 29p each, reduced from £1.60! They are the 'smelly' variety - e.g green is mint, pink is bubblegum etc. I can't actually smell them, maybe that's why they are such a great price! There's some by the tills and some further down in the shop. Signo pens are bright and colourful, perfect for art journalling. Tyvek - Great for mixed media work, Tyvek can be purchased by the sheet, but is not cheap. I have discovered that some envelopes are made of Tyvek and can be used for crafting. I will do a demo in May to explain it all, but until then save your Tyvek envelopes! They are usually white on the outside, grey on the inside and feel like plastic. Shire Hall Gallery - Once again the gallery in Stafford has a great exhibition. There are several artists work on display, I particularly enjoyed Caroline Kirton's work. I can thoroughly recommend it!

Cloth Paper Scissors

2011-03-20T14:20:00.000-07:00

I have just signed up to the Cloth Paper Scissors website. It's a good mag, lots of interesting articles, and the website looks great too. You get four free technique sheets for joining, and access to galleries with ideas, tutorials etc. I thought you might enjoy it!

http://www.clothpaperscissors.com/

Altered Scrapbook

2011-03-16T03:55:00.000-07:00

We had a fantastic time at Anneliese Bates altered scrapbook workshop on Saturday. Anneliese is so creative and full of enthusiasm, it's contagious! I know several of the ladies have been continuing to work on their altered scrapbooks, me included. Here are my efforts. My book is about my ancestors, a subject very meaningful for me. I want it to sit on the coffee table and be perused by the family, so they can get to know and love their family who have passed on. As many of you know, I am a Mormon. My faith means a great deal to me, and I believe that we will be reunited with our families in heaven some day. That is why I want to know and honour them. That is why scrapbooking as we know it began in the 1970's in Utah. Mormons who had done their family trees wanted to be able to present the information in a creative way, preserving the photos and memorabilia for future generations to enjoy. That is also why there are so many Mormons in the scrapbooking industry - Heidi Swapp, Teresa Collins, Lisa Bearnson (founder of Creating Keepsakes), Rusty Pickle owners, Creative Memories, and others. So now you know :-)

Art Journal Page

2011-03-16T03:50:00.001-07:00

Here's another art journal page. I bought 'Journal Bliss' by Voilette, and it inspired me to do this page. It's supposed to be a self-portrait (I can hear you chuckling!) but it was fun to do. It's a great little book, well worth getting.

Workshop

2011-03-07T14:44:00.001-08:00

Those of you who are coming to the workshop on Saturday, I hope you are as excited as I am!!! We have the hall from 9.30 till 3.30, to allow for time to set up and clear away and still have a 10 till 3 workshop. Pack up your photos and bits and bobs, and get ready:-) Oh, and don't forget to bring lunch. You won't want to stop working to go out and get something xx

Transformations

2011-03-07T14:28:00.000-08:00

I've been having some fun painting furniture for my living room. I needed a chest of drawers wide enough for the TV and DVD player to go on. I found a pine one in a charity shop, just crying out for a bit of attention! Some friends who visited recently put me on to Annie Sloan paint, and it's brilliant. It is water based, very chalky, and covers really well. When it's dry, which is only a couple of hours, you rub in wax and buff it up to a lovely sheen. I'm thinking there must be ways to use this in scrapping, its such great stuff. So here are the before and afters'.

Artist Trading Post

2011-02-24T13:45:00.000-08:00

I have just got back from a fabulous holiday, all refreshed and ready to get on with things. I have had an email from Annaliese who is running the workshop for us at the next crop. She is bringing a few goodies from the Artist Trading Post www.artisttradingpost.com to sell, but if you want to place an order from the website she will bring it for you to the workshop, so you save on postage and packing costs. There is so much lovely stuff on the website, I highly recommend it. Make sure you add a note to your order to let them know Annaliese needs to bring it to the Cannock workshop.

Art Journalling

2011-02-16T05:29:00.000-08:00

I have done a bit of art journalling before, but I was really inspired by Trish's journal at the last crop. She got me so enthusiastic I had to go home and start right away. This is my first 'proper' page and I loved doing it. As I have a holiday coming up (Lanzarote tomorrow actually!) Trish also suggested I get a smaller book and do some backgrounds on the pages so I can take it with me and work on the less messy bits when I am away. Well, I have done it, and prepared a little box of watercolour pencils, and souffle and gel pens so I can create on the beach :-) I am even more excited about my holiday because I get to create too!!

Crop and workshop

2011-02-02T13:47:00.000-08:00

Don't forget to bring the balance owed for Annaliese's workshop to the crop on Saturday. Here is a list of what to bring:

a selection of photos to put in the book you will make, can be themed eg. wedding, baby, holiday etc or random.
scraps of papers, ribbons or bits that will go with your photos. This is optional as a selection to choose from will be provided
scissors, craft knife and cutting mat if you have them. If not there will be some provided.

This is going to be a great workshop. Annaliese sounds as excited and enthusiastic as we are!

Collage Sheets

2011-01-31T01:57:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Ellie for finding this great website with free collage sheet downloads. Go to www.flickr.com/groups/freecollagesheets/ . It's the crop this coming Saturday. I am working on a demo and it involves tissue tape, can't wait to experiment.
This week has been really busy for me, but fun! I have had a great time seeing all the grandchildren over the weekend- and that makes me very happy! Did I tell you I have the 3 most gorgeous granddaughters in the world?
I have steered away from my scrap room this last week. It's a complete mess from my very productive creative frenzy! I get so frustrated that I just don't have enough room to have the things that I need out and easy to reach. I know I am very lucky to have a room to call my own, but I need either more space or yet another huge clear out!! I will have to face it soon, or there will be no demo Saturday :-(

Time to create

2011-01-16T05:46:00.000-08:00

I am finally making time to create, on a daily basis. It's always been hard for me to give myself 'permission' to get in my craft room and forget everything else, but I am doing it! I am reading the book 'Creative time and space' and I have found it really helpful. How wonderful it is to get lost in time and the process of creating, and then to have something to show for it. I have been playing with my Big Shot and love the Tim Holtz Bigz dies. I will be making some samples for a demo at the February crop. I have had the most fun with the embossing folders. The metal flower pictured was cut with the Tattered Florals die and then put through the Big Shot in an embossing folder. I then rubbed paint over it with my fingers, highlighting the raised edges. The other flowers are made with the same die, just using different papers/card, some embossed and some collaged. Texture is everything!

Ooooooohhhhhhhh crop!

2011-01-02T14:33:00.000-08:00

It's the monthly crop on Saturday! We have Caroline from SCRAPZ coming with the shop, and I will do a demo. I am really looking forward to the first crop of the year. If you want to come to our Altered Scrapbook workshop with Annaliese Bates in March don't forget to bring a deposit of at least £10 on Saturday to secure your place, don't miss this one! I wanted to draw your attention to a blog I found which has kept me occupied for ages tonight- so much inspiration! It's www.polkadotchair.com I wish I had found it before Christmas! There are some great gift and decorating ideas on there. Have fun browsing :-)

LOTS TO LOOK FORWARD TO

2010-12-29T08:37:00.000-08:00

It's a time for thinking about the year ahead. 2011 is a new decade, lets make some goals that will get us where we want to be. Whether we are looking at our crafting or general life goals, we will accomplish so much more if we know what we want to achieve. So, think what you would like to happen in 2011, and then write down some steps that will set you on your way. You could even scrapbook your journey. The most important thing is that you take those steps! So often we set goals and don't achieve them, because we don't follow through and do the work. Lets change all that and live more purposefully in 2011. I have always loved this quote, I hope it inspires you too!
"If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavours to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with success unexpected in common hours" David Henry Thoreau

Crop 2011

2010-12-15T04:11:00.000-08:00

CROP DATES
The crop will take place on the second Saturday of each month, except for February when we couldn't get the second so we went for the first Saturday. Dates are as follows:
January 8th
February 5th
March 12th
April 9th
May 14th
June 11th
July 9th
August 13th
September 10th
October 8th
November 12th
December 10th

WORKSHOP- If we get at least 15 people signed up, the workshop will be subsidised for regular members, so a workshop that usually costs £30 will be yours for £20! Karen or Carol need your £10 deposit by the January crop to secure your place. I am very excited about this workshop!!

Next years workshop

2010-12-09T03:58:00.000-08:00

Just a note to let you know that the very talented Anneliese Bates (www.anneliesebates.co.uk ) will be running an altered scrapbook workshop for us on 12th March next year. She is a certified Ranger Educator and has had work published in a number of magazines. She works at the Artist Trading Post. I have seen her demo and she is brilliant! It should cost around £20 to £25 , so maybe you could ask Santa for an extra pressy? Deposits need to be in by the January crop. Get excited!!

Christmas Crop

2010-12-09T03:46:00.001-08:00

It's our Christmas crop this Saturday!!! I am so sorry I will miss it. We are at a good friends wedding in Peterborough, and just can't miss that. I hope to be sending along a little thought for each of you though. It's 10 till 3, as normal. Bring along a £5 scrapbooking gift if you want to take part in the gift exchange. Are you following Tim Holtz's 12 tags? Yesterdays was fabulous- see picture above. I can't believe that creativity! Good news though, you don't need the die to cut the flower if you haven't already got it. I cut a strip of paper with a wavy edge and it works fine. OK, not as good as Tim's, but that is because its me doing it!! Enjoy the crop xx

My Christmas Tags

2010-12-03T12:17:00.000-08:00

This tag was painted with blue crackle paint, stamped with the word then stickled over the lines.

Gold heat embossed all over the tag with the holly stamp, distress inked and adhered printed flower, highlighted with stickles. Red holly berries were done with red stickles.

This one was gold heat embossed with holly stamp, distress inked edges, stamped holly on another card and cut out, then distress inked leaves.

I used flocked red patterned paper for the middle, gold crackle paint for the bottom, inked, stamped and distressed the lot! I glued a button on and used glossy accents to put a star on it.

This is my favourite. I stamped 'NOEL', distress inked whole tag, inked and adhered robin, inked grungeboard crown and added gems, punched holes and threaded fabric through for ribbon bow.

I distress inked tag, stamped on it, added star that was made by pressing angelina fibres onto a stamp with an iron, added lock which was made by pouring beeswax into a mould and painting.

Inspired by all things Holtz (LOVING his tags) I've conjured up a few of my own. These tags are so much fun to do! They don't take long, and are just doable little pieces of art. Have a go! I will be making some sweets for Christmas and attaching these tags with ribbon.

Christmas Tags

2010-12-01T07:07:00.000-08:00

This is exciting! Tim Holtz is doing it again! He has created 12 amazing tags for Christmas and he is posting photos and instructions every day so you can do the same! His blog is always inspiring. Even if you don't have all the dies and stamps that he uses you can adapt the ideas to what you have. I will be following him avidly as ever, and I may even post some of my own creations. Tim's blog is www.timholtz.typepad.com

Altered Apron!

2010-11-25T11:17:00.000-08:00

I've made a crafting apron! I loved playing with some fabric scraps I had, and an apron is a great blank canvas to have a go at. I chose some bits and bobs (a couple of stamps, pictures etc) and laid them on my printer/copier. I taped some fabric to a piece of card and fed it through on 'copy'. It printed really well. I am not sure it will be waterproof, but that's OK, I am not planning to wash it. I cut out each item, backed it with wadding and a backing fabric and stitched around the edges. My favourite bit is the little brown stamp. It looks so cute padded out :-) For the 'create' part, I used Tim Holtz masks on plain fabric and sprayed dyes over the top. When it was dry I sent it through the printer taped onto card, having put the word 'create' on a word document. My little brooch was from 7 Gypsies, I added the pearls, letter beads, and pin.

Don't forget the crop tomorrow. Fun with angelina fibres .

YaY! CrOp TiMe

2010-11-12T06:09:00.000-08:00

It's our Cannock crop tomorrow. Love it when we get together. I always get so much inspiration and go home with renewed enthusiasm. Ellie is bringing the shop and doing a fab demo on the Tim Holtz dies using leather (hhmmnnnn. Interesting!) . Can't wait for that. At the last Friday night crop I did a demo on using polymer clay to make buttons. It's easy and enjoyable. Above is a picture of the ones I made.

Hobbycraft Inspiration

2010-11-06T13:10:00.000-07:00

I had a brilliant day at the NEC Hobbycraft show. There was tons of inspiration. I LOVED the Artist Trading Post stand! I didn't realise they were so close - near Buxton. Anneliese Bates was the demonstrator, and she great. So many good ideas, so check out her blog. I bought a fantastic old printers tray for £10 from them, after seeing what Annaliese had done with hers. This picture was from her blog. I will post mine when it's done.

Friday night crop and demo

2010-10-26T14:35:00.000-07:00

Get excited! It's our friday crop this week. It's free! It's friendly, it's fun! I have a demo ready on how to use polymer clay to make embellishments and buttons. I have loved playing and have made some samples to show you. See you there 6 till 9.

Friday night crop

2010-09-30T03:51:00.000-07:00

Hey! We have our first evening blog, courtesy of our funding from community education. It's tomorrow night, 6 till 9 pm. There will be a demo, come and enjoy the fun for free!

Evening Crops

2010-09-02T10:26:00.000-07:00

I have confirmed the dates for our three evening crops. The last friday in September was not available, so I went for Friday 1st October. The other two are fine, 29th October, 26th November. We have the hall from 6pm till 9pm. Admission is free :D Put it in your diaries.

Shire Hall Exhibition

2010-08-29T13:36:00.000-07:00

I called in to the Shire Hall Gallery in Stafford town centre yesterday and fell in love with the exhibition they have on at the moment, called 'A sense of place'. I couldn't take my eyes off of Rachel Grant's collaged pictures of houses and a huge quilt type piece of a map depicting the local area. You must go and see it if you want to be inspired. She has a web site too. www.rachel-grant.com
I have been preparing for my crop class. We are on holiday next Saturday for a week, so I needed to get it done this week. Those who want to do the class will be using embossing as a resist, painting, and making wax embellishments. I loved playing and hope you will too!

Waxworks

2010-08-19T11:41:00.001-07:00

I just finished decorating this box in my scrap room. Click on the picture for a close up. I brushed a layer of melted wax over it first, to make a base. I then dipped various collage pieces in melted wax and laid them on the base. In a few areas I built up the wax a little deeper, used my heat gun to soften it, and pressed stamps into it for a few seconds. I then used gold metallic rub ons and buffed it up. I also added a little perfect pearls to give some dimension. That is what I like best, the depth of the effects, and the layers with peeps of colour and pictures showing through. The top drawer I collaged a photo and scrunched up tissue paper in to the wax. Interestingly, the photo dipped into hot wax suffered no ill effects :D I thought it might soak up too much wax, or be difficult to work with but it was fine. So much fun to do!

Experimenting with wax

2010-08-18T02:59:00.000-07:00

I am having a blast experimenting with the melt pot and beeswax. The picture above isn't mine, it's taken from a google search on beeswax collage. Not sure who the artist is. You know how I love beeswax! I've done 2 layouts as samples for the September crop class. Think vintage, think blue, gold and grey, you can even think sand and sea. Bring with you either a sea side photo or an old vintage style photo. Black and white would work well too, any theme. I love it when my scrap room is littered with brushes, glues, fibres and papers. It means I'm in creative mode. There are some interesting videos on the Ranger web site that give some inspiration about using wax. Oooohhh just the thought gets me excited! Everything will be provided for the class, but if you want to bring any of the following it will save you having to wait for things:

clear stamps, heat gun, non-stick craft mat, blue acrylic paint, natural sponge, clear or white embossing powder, brown distress ink pad, stickles.

Things

2010-08-11T13:07:00.000-07:00

Next crop is 11th September, and I can't wait! I really missed the last one. I am doing a FREE class! Ellie will be bringing the shop, and we will have a theme of cupcakes. I will bring some (I have a great new recipe, see previous post, yum yum)and if any of you would like to bring some too that would be great.
We have had some good news too. Community learning have awarded us £100 to try running and evening crop. Woohoo! I am going to sort some dates out, one a month for September, October and November. Let me know if you want to come and there are certain evenings you can not make. They will be free for the first 3 months.
Finally, Stampington magazines have their annual back issue sale on. Shipping is the killer, but I've ordered 3 magazines and it will work out about £5 each. Have a look: http://www.stampington.com/back-issue-sale/

Class and Crop

2010-07-29T05:40:00.000-07:00

DON'T FORGET - the August crop is the first Saturday - the 7th!
Also, Trish has let me know about a class in Shrewsbury, it's
Making Fabric Books, Saturday 25th September from 10.00-4.00 at the Gateway Education & Arts Centre, Shrewsbury SY1 1NB tel 01743 355159/ 361120. The tutor is Mariatta Alker. Course Code A1043, the cost is £26.00 and it says:
This course will show you innovative ways to use fabric, paint, paper and more to create a very special journal for photos or keepsakes
We have signed up. Why not join us?

Crop Shop

2010-07-28T09:35:00.000-07:00

Happy Daze is the shop that will be coming to our crop on 7th August!! Have a look at their website www.happy-daze.net. They have some wonderful stash, including the Tim Holtz Ideology range. Wish I was going to be there to enjoy it! I would suggest if you want anything specific you contact them through the website. You could maybe even put in an order via the website and get them to bring it along. I'm jealous I won't get to be there:(

Hard Work!

2010-07-20T13:01:00.000-07:00

I spent some time today doing crop paper work. Not exactly riveting news I know!! I have filled out the application for our funding until March. Then I applied for extra funds to run 3 evening sessions to see if we have enough interest to have one a month (would LOVE that!) I have also applied for us to have a film made about us and what we do. If successful, the film would be put on the Community Learning website and we could use it to promote ourselves. I will let you know as soon as their is any news about it. The future could be very exciting! I will not be at the next crop :( A very dear friend of ours is getting married in Norwich, so we will have an overnight stay in Peterborough (where we used to live for 12 years) and have the day at the wedding. I am looking forward to Septembers though, and I plan to do a mini class for everyone. Carol and Karen will do a demo in August and arrange for a shop to come. What would I do without them? Thanks ladies!

Theresa Collins Stamp Maker

2010-07-20T12:49:00.000-07:00

I enjoy Theresa Collins blog, it's worth a look if you haven't seen it before. She has now developed a new product, a stamp maker. I don't know when it will be available in the UK, but will let you know as soon as I hear. It seems that you can use some designs that are included, or you can use your own. That could be so much fun! Imagine the possibilities..... I know there was something similar at one of the craft shows I went to, but this looks like a much cooler version :)

Spools!

2010-07-03T11:30:00.000-07:00

My holiday was great - we were in Devon with the whole family. Loved it! I am pretty exhausted though. I called in to Crafty Devils, a shop on a retail park in Barnstaple. I was really impressed, they had tons of Ranger stuff and all the latest Tim Holtz bits and bobs. If you get a chance to go, take it!
I came across this blog and love these little spools :) There is a how to video clip. Here's the link
http://nirvanaelements.blogspot.com/2010/06/simple-little-crate.html
Enjoy xx

C'mon England!

2010-06-18T07:40:00.000-07:00

In celebration of all things English, I made these cup cakes this afternoon. We are having all the family round for the England world cup match tonight, so I decided a nice unhealthy pizza and cakes tea would go down a treat. It was theraputic, and though it took me a couple of hours it was a lovely way to spend a wet afternoon. I love cooking for the family. My granddaughters love 'birthday cake' (as they call any iced cake) and I am really looking forward to seeing thier faces when they spot these! I am decorating our little reading room next week, then back to some crafting after that. I can't wait.

Cannock crop and demo's

2010-06-09T01:10:00.001-07:00

I'm excited about the crop this Saturday! It's a double demo day! We have Caroline and Ann from Skrapz coming with their shop and they will be giving us a 30 min demo on glimmer mists. How exciting! They have made up a little 'tag techniques' kit at a cost of £2.50 for anyone who would like to buy it, but you don't have to buy it to watch the demo. Karen and Carol are also doing a demo of their lovely board book using foam board. Here's what you need to bring if you want to do that:

3-5 sheets of co-ordinating thick scrapbook paper

Ribbon for ties and extra for embellishing

3-5 small photos

Buttons, flowers etc

PVA glue or double sided tape

Ink for edges

Craft Knife

Basic tool kit.

Pencillines

2010-06-03T14:44:00.000-07:00

I was enjoying browsing the Pencillines website and found myself wondering if you know about it. It has a guest designer who sketches a scrapbook page design. Then others use her design and make their own versions which are posted on the site. There are some really beautiful pages on there, so sit back, relax, and be inspired. Here's the link: http://www.pencillines.com/

Yummy scrummy Stampington!

2010-05-26T00:49:00.000-07:00

I adore the Stampington mags, so much to inspire there! They have some lovely vintage tickets in the free download section, see above. Although these mags are hard to get hold of here, you can pay to digitally download some of the mags from their web site for $9.99. Here's the link:
http://www.stampington.com/html/sew_somerset_winter10.html
That should take you to an interesting page.
Tip: if you just want a sneak peek, you can see some of the articles from each mag by clicking on the 'see what's inside' button under each issue. Enjoy browsing :)

My creations

2010-05-04T12:02:00.000-07:00

Well, this is what I've been making recently. The pattern for the bags is from a Kath Kidstone book which is an excellent intro to sewing. The blue bag came free with the book. All the fabric pieces were ready cut out, you just have to sew it all together. I'm loving it! I'm learning new skills :) My daughter liked mine so much I bought some pretty red fabric and made one for her too. I had to make the pattern for that one, and it worked out OK. With the left over fabric I made a cover for a little book. My inspiration for the water colour stitched picture was direct from a book called 'Page after Page' by Frances Pickering, so many ideas in there!

tree

2010-05-04T11:57:00.000-07:00

I am just loving the blossom this year! This tree is right outside our house. I think it must be the best yet, maybe because we had such a hard winter. Something beautiful often comes our of something difficult.

Grungy Inspirations

2010-04-30T09:37:00.000-07:00

I had a great creative excursion with Trish- we went to some fabric/arty shops in Eccleshall and Newport which were a joy! Oliver Twists in Newport and Pollyanna Patchwork in Eccleshall. Such amazing fabrics, I wanted to take the whole lot home! I noticed there are some new demos on Tim Holtz's web site, inspiring as ever, ENJOY!
www.timholtz.com/demos.html

Update

2010-04-24T14:53:00.000-07:00

The adult learners week class - the hall will be open from 7pm, the class will start around 7.15 to 7.30. Please bring glues, scissors, pencil and anything else you usually need. There are still a few places left :) I'm excited about teaching it.

Free Class

2010-04-21T14:01:00.000-07:00

Good news! We received some funding to run a class during adult learners week. The idea was that we would use the class to encourage people who are new to scrapbooking, or new to our group. There are some places left so I am now opening it up to any group member who would like to come and bring a friend or relative with them. It's 7.30 to 9 pm on Friday 21st May in our usual venue in Cannock. Email me if you want a place. I'm not sure what the class will be exactly, but I am considering a Tim Holtz style tag book. Further updates to come.

Dry Spell

2010-04-18T15:05:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't blogged for a while. I'm having one of those rare dry spells where I have totally lost my mojo! Nothing is inspiring me:( When I get a time like this it usually means there are other things on my mind, or I need a break. Maybe it's time for a creative excursion. I get in the car and go shopping, not to buy but to check out the new seasons colours in clothes shops or interior design shops. Usually something will attract my eye and I will be inspired, and that is the most wonderful feeling! I love it when my head is so full of ideas I have to get them all out and scribble on any little scrap of paper in my bag. Inspiration is out there, you just have to find it. Sorry I'm not providing much for you at the moment, but come back soon!

Crop time!

2010-04-07T03:00:00.000-07:00

I'm looking forward to this months crop on Saturday, 10 till 3. Karen and Carol are doing a demo, Ellie's bringing her shop, what more can we ask for?? Bring your own things to work on. Not sure what I'm doing yet, I'll probably decide 9 am Saturday!! In the meantime the sun is shining so I'm off to a garden centre so I can feel like spring is FINALY here :)

Home pictures

2010-03-29T03:14:00.001-07:00

Creative Home

2010-03-25T12:11:00.000-07:00

All my creative energy is going in to our house at the moment. I've been working on the bedroom, but it's slow because my health isn't great, so baby steps. It's wonderful to decorate a room, and then get to enjoy it every day. It has always been my goal to make our home a refuge from the world, a place to replenish and relax, and it's beginning to feel like that for me. As always I love a bargain, and have made the most of sales and junk shop finds. The bed linnen and curtains were from Dunnelm sale and are really soft and cosy even though they look luxurious. I painted my pine chest of drawers and distressed it with Ranger distress ink!! So glad I have all this stuff ha ha! My fave find is the mirror, which I bought from the Katherine House Hospice charity warehouse in Stafford, it's well worth a visit if you get a chance. I paid £6 for this dark wood, tatty and uninteresting mirror, but I could see it had potential. I painted it and distressed it and now I LOVE it! Pictures to follow.

Skrapz

2010-03-08T08:25:00.001-08:00

Ann and Caroline are bringing their shop to saturday's crop. They are bringing some new Prima and Basic Grey things, and stickles (can never have enough of those!) If there is anything in particular you want them to bring you can contact them through their website, www.skrapz.co.uk. Can't wait for saturday!

Class for March

2010-02-28T11:55:00.000-08:00

Here's a couple of teasing pics to give you an idea what the class will be :)

Under the influence- of Tim Holtz

2010-02-28T09:30:00.000-08:00

You can see the effect he's had on me! I was given a tatty box which I was going to throw away, then decided it might make a good place to keep all my fave Ranger stash. So I tried out some techniques from the book. I've also been trying out the different techniques on tags and flowers, believe me it's addictive! I am especially liking the rock candy distress stickles. They leave a subtle glittery effect, but vintage, not cheap looking. I will need more of that!

In The Zone

2010-02-26T09:59:00.000-08:00

March crop - it's a longer day, 9.30 till 4.30 or whenever you can make it. I am doing a class which will be subsidised. The cost will be just £1, but you will still need to pay the usual £5 admission cost. I have 15 kits, so if there are not enough to go around priority will be given to regular members. I hate to have to leave anyone out, but we can't buy all the stuff for an indefinate number :( Hints about the class- think grunge, think clear! I ordered the QVC TSV the other day and it arrived this morning. It's fab, Tim Holtz's new book and lots of ranger bits and bobs. It's stimulated my creativity no end! I will bring it to the crop.

clear album

2010-02-15T13:14:00.001-08:00

I made this as a wedding gift. Using the clear album was a fun challenge- I had a great time doing it. This was a papermania album, and I am going to try cutting something similar on my cricut. I will let you know what happens!

Saturday's Crop

2010-02-11T08:35:00.000-08:00

We have an extra long crop on Saturday. 9.30 till 5 YAY! Admission is the usual £5 and Ellie's class is subsidised so will cost just £2.50. Should be a great day.

CrEaTiVe

2010-02-07T12:45:00.000-08:00

getting creative! I am in the zone ha ha! At the moment I am working on a monoprint for my niece who is expecting a baby any day. I did one of some retro shoes for my daughters birthday, pictured above. I've been playing with fabric scrapbooking too, and I made a page for my son and daughter-in-law of their lovely baby Scarlett. I lightly glued the fabric and elements in place before hand stitching round the whole thing! It was a labour of LOVE, believe me. But creating feels so good, and I am loving sewing while I watch TV. I somehow don't feel like I am wasting my time.

CROP

2010-02-07T12:38:00.000-08:00

This saturday 13th its crop day- yay! I have a wedding to go to in the morning, but i will be there in the afternoon. Ellie is doing a great class that will be subsidised to regular crop goers. Admission is the usual £5, and the class is £7.50 but regular members will get it for just £2.50. Exciting stuff. Here's the sneek peak :)

UGH!

2010-02-03T14:32:00.001-08:00

so so frustrated with my new laptop! It's amazing, but will not let me download photos. I have some cool stuff I've been working on (even if I do say so myself!) and I'm keen to tell you about it. I am not at work at the moment, my body is rebelling against me, but it has allowed me to focus on creative things, so I guess there is always and up side. Also- the planing for the special crop in March is coming along really well. It's going to be a chocolate crop or even a choc-a-crop! If anyone has a chocolate fountain we could use let me know. It is going to be a good day:) More info coming soon!

Crop Plans

2010-01-10T11:45:00.000-08:00

Despite the cold, us hardy scrappers met for our crop yesterday. We made some decisions to change a few things, hopefully to have less to organise but still lots of inspiration and education going on. Chris has taken some notes I will post on here soon. Carol has put together a crop plan/diary for us to refer to. If you want to offer to do a demo or a class let me know and we will put you on the list.
CROP DATES – DEMONSTRATIONS

2010
Jan 9th Donna - demo
Feb 13th 6 x 6 Paper bag album – 6 photos – Ellie
Theme - Friendship
March 13th Special Day
April 10th
May 8th
June 12th
July 10th
August 7th
September 11th
October 9th Special day
November 13th
December 11th
I am excited for a great year of scrapbooking ahead! If you can, come and join us.

Re-invented Scraproom

2009-12-28T13:47:00.000-08:00

I've done it again! I've reorganised my scrap room, added some new storage things and it is working so much better for me. It feels good too, like a new start in for the new year. I have freed up some creative space in my head so here's to a creative 2010 for everyone :)

2010 Crop Dates

2009-12-15T14:01:00.000-08:00

Hi Cannock Croppers! Next years crop dates were booked quite a while ago, but in case anyone doesn't know, we managed to get the second saturday in every month. That way, everyone can easily remember them. I am wondering about making some changes next year. I would love to hear what you like about the crop and what you don't like. Let's come up with some new ideas! I am hoping we can have a meeting at the January crop for the first half an hour to plan for the year. Please email me with your thoughts at donnadowd59@hotmail.com or leave a comment on here. Just some things to get you thinking- maybe we could change the seating around so we can all chat easier, have scrapping challenges with prizes, include lunch?, sell our equipment that has been hard to monitor, or buy more? Classes have become a big issue that has caused quite a bit of anguish. Anyway, lots to discuss and think about. We have been running for about 5 years now, and there has always been a great open and friendly atmosphere which we want to keep. The bits I love are being with such great people, being inspired by the work you do, sharing info and ideas together, and of course, the crop shops that visit with lovely stash to drool over :) I would really value your input. Thanks!

sweet

2009-12-13T03:09:00.000-08:00

I love this little video story- the circle of kindness.
http://www.lds.org/topic/christmas/christmas_video_2.html

Christmas challenges and joys

2009-12-11T08:37:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year, but this is a challenging one for me. My back problems have returned with a vengeance. It's so frustrating to be laying here, with so much needing to be done! I will not be able to scrap at the crop tomorrow. I hope to call in if I can, but won't be stopping. I am trying to do things from the sofa - email old friends, watch some good movies etc and to feel the spirit of Christmas in different ways. I always think there is a reason for things, I just need to work out what it is this time! Thanks to all my friends and readers for continuing to follow my blog this year. One of my favourite films for Christmas is 'It's a wonderful life' and that is my motto this Christmas. No matter what challeges we have, it really is a wonderful life! Enjoy the season and see if you can surprise someone or do a little act of unexpected kindness. It's the very best way to enjoy Christmas - guaranteed :)

Soldering

2009-12-09T02:32:00.000-08:00

I noticed this on a Stampington newsletter, and it's an inspiring how-to clip. Here's the link:
http://stampington.com/postscript/2009/december/postscript_12082009_video.html
It looks like there are lots of interesting videos on here. I am struggling with a bad back again at the moment, but the up side of that is that I have time to look at these things :) As soon as I can sit up better I am going to get that soldering iron out again! It was a bit of a disaster last time!

12 Tags of Christmas

2009-12-05T13:22:00.000-08:00

Just a heads up to say Tim Holtz is doing his 12 tags of Christmas again this year (this is one of them). Have a look at www.timholtz.typepad.com - there are more amazing timholtzy techniques and some gorgeous ideas. I'm feeling all inky just thinking about it! Don't miss it.

Hobbycraft

2009-12-03T07:52:00.000-08:00

It's definate!!! When I went shopping to the retail park right near my house I saw a huge empty retail unit with Hobbycraft posters all over it! They will be opening in Stafford in Spring next year! How amazing is that?? Hubby won't be to pleased though- I won't even need the car to spend money on stash haha!

Information for December Cannock Crop

2009-12-03T07:47:00.000-08:00

Here's the info I received from Sue today:

Here’s the heads-up on what you'll need to complete the class layout:

Basic tool kit (paper trimmer, steel ruler, craft knife, scissors, pencil, adhesive, cutting mat)
One 6 x 4" landscape orientation photo and three smaller photo's if desired to fit into stars... Steph has used Black and white photo's (sneak attached above showing kit colours)
Sewing needle
Paint brush
Black ink pad
Of course, being a CRAFTYSTASH CROP ... THE crop where value for money and inspiration comes as standard ... we have a second layout for you to complete, should you fancy doing this layout as well you will need a 4"x 6" portrait photo ... Steph has used a black and white photo

Theme is OPEN

Scrapbook page! Ribbon Storage idea

2009-11-26T10:07:00.000-08:00

I got fed up of not being able to see my ribbon, so I have organised it better. I used large book rings, one ring for each colour and tied the ribbon on to them. I then hung all the rings on a coat hanger which hangs on the knob of my craft room cupboard. It's so much easier to see what I've got, instead of sifting through tangled knots in a box! Also, I have actualy completed a scrapbook page! (shock horror!) I used to do lots, but got a bit carried away with mini books and gifts. It feels really good to get back to 12 x 12 scrapbooking.

Crop Class

2009-11-23T15:47:00.001-08:00

We will be getting a sneak peek of the class at the weekend on my blog. I have asked for 11 kits for the following people who have confirmed: me, Carol, Karen, Nina, Zoe, Marie-Noelle, Tricia, Chris H, Chris G, Irene, Ellie. If you want a kit and you are not on the list please let me know a.s.a.p. or you will be disapointed. Thanks.

Christmas Crop

2009-11-21T14:12:00.000-08:00

Saturday 12th December we have our Chase scrappers crop. Sue is bringing her shop from Crafty Stash, and there will be a class kit provided for £12 for those who want to do it. The room hire cost will be subsidised this month= just £3! We are having our annual buffet too, just bring something to share. If you want to, bring a £5 scrapbooking gift for our secret santa gift exchange. I always look forward to the Christmas crop, it's become just part of Christmas for me. Spending time with great people, doing what we love - what more could a girl want from Santa?
If you love Christmas you will love these! http://www.jacquielawson.com/cards_christmas.asp
Jacquie Lawson's amazing interactive Christmas cards. This woman has single-handedly captured the essence of everything wonderful about Christmas in her cards. Enjoy:)

Seasonal treats

2009-11-13T06:44:00.000-08:00

It's my favourite time of year! The day I get out the autumn basket is always a marker for me - Christmas is on the horizon! It symbolizes nights in snuggled on the sofa, Christmassy movies, and that twinge of excitement in the air. I have been having a go at making some cards too. I was given a lovely watercolour painted card last year and kept it, so here is my version, with added stickles for sparkle! I am loving watercolour painting :-)

Sprinkles

2009-11-12T08:49:00.000-08:00

Stacy Julian has been around in the scrapbooking world a llooonnnnnggggggggg time! I like her outlook, and her simple scrapbooking style, and most of all, her attitude. I LOVE the sprinkles section of her website. If you have time, it's very uplifting.
http://stacyjulian.com/sprinkles/

Decorating

2009-11-01T11:03:00.000-08:00

So sorry I have not blogged much recently. I have been decorating the living room, and what seemed a small job seems to have gone on for ages. It's the domino effect!! I was given a chest of drawers and I wasn't sure about the colour, but I needed more storage space in the living room, so I painted it. Even with good paint it took 3 coats. I'm pleased with the result though, and I now have a great place to store the grandchildren's toys and games, plus pens and paper etc. I will never have to hunt for a pen again:) All the DVD's fit in there too, and the remote controls will have a home. The fireplace was to be a quick job. Or so I thought. I sprayed it with 3 coats of Plastikote stone effect paint. It gave it a nice texture, but it didn't seem scratch proof and I didn't like the colour, so I did a top coat of satinwood silk. It's a lovely finish, and looks much like stone, but a far cheaper option. It's all taken me ages. I have painted 3 walls with Crown "on the rocks" (gorgeous colour on) and just have the last wall to paper. I got some lovely Laura Ashley paper, £20 a roll, reduced to £1 a roll in the sale :) You gotta love a bargain- especially a quality one! So that's what I've been up to. No time to scrap with all my lovely new stash. I'm looking forward to our crop class, felt covers for books on 14th November. There are still a few places so contact me if you are interested.

yummy fabrics

2009-10-15T12:07:00.000-07:00

I brought back some lovely fabrics from America. Joanne's fabric shops are amazing- so much choice and a sale on too! Many fabrics were $3.99 a metre. I also got some goodies to experiment with on the fabrics. I'll let you know how it goes! I'm really excited tonight. I just heard my parents are moving to Stafford! After 70 years in the same house (where I grew up) they are taking the plunge. It will be wonderful to have them living just up the road. Fingers crossed all goes well with the house sale.

crop-learn-play

2009-10-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

Yay! Saturday is crop day!! I just heard from Jules. She is coming with her shop- and bringing a class for us to do! How exciting:) I'm bringing some stash to sell so bring along anything you have to sell too. Then you can spend your money at Jule's shop guilt free!

stash binge!

2009-10-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, I've been on a 3 week stash binge! I now need an extreme stash diet for at least a year! The photos are just some of my buys. There's also flowers, paper packs, embellishments, and more than a few clear stamp sets. Trouble is, there is no room to even get into my craft room. I am overwhelmed, and have no idea where to stash my stash! I got some great books that i will bring to the crop Saturday, so hopefully there will be some inspiration there for all.

USA

2009-09-24T19:06:00.000-07:00

It seems very weird to be writing this from America!! We are pretty exhausted and Kevin is now chilling and watching even MORE American football- so I have escaped to the business centre in the hotel for 5 mins to send a couple of emails and so thought I'd say Hi to you. I'm loving the exploring of everything here. We have met tons of lovely people and found some great shops. Saturday we head down to Vermont and it looks like we will hit it just right for the autumn colours. I'm excited! On the way we are calling in to a shop called 'We be scrappin' which I am told is fantastic. There's a web site so have a look. Four out of the first six scrapping shops we went to had closed because of the recession!! What a disappointment :( I have since made up for it though, and found some great shops. Michael's still seems to have the best overall selection and there is one in most towns. Kevin is brill, he just brings a book and sits reading in the car! I have decided he's a keeper! I haven't found any amazing new techniques as yet, and the stash here seems pretty much what we get over there, just cheaper. Anyway, I hope you are all well and look forward to seeing you soon. xx

details

2009-09-10T08:50:00.001-07:00

Just a crop update. It's our crop saturday, and I will be doing a demo on travel journals, (hmmmnnnnnnnn wonder why!) including a technique turotial. We also have a shop and a second hand table so bring your unwanted stash to sell. It's £5 for the day, bring your own drinks but milk and hot water are provided. We will have sign up sheets for the classes coming up this year and next- so don't miss getting your name down. See you there!

Beautiful England

2009-09-06T12:10:00.000-07:00

I'm really making an effort to get fitter, and that includes walking every day. I feel so so blessed to live near Cannock Chase and I've spent a bit of time there recently! It's amazing! Just wanted to tell you that. If you live close, make the most of it. Every season has it's beauties:) The heather is particularly spectacular at the moment.

Class Instructions

2009-09-06T11:59:00.000-07:00

It's my class at Hedensford library tomorrow. It's been fun to get ready- and I'm excited about teaching it. I LOVE seeing people go home happy with something they have made (fingers crossed for that haha!) Anyway, thought I'd post the instructions in case you want to have a go at your own. I am planning to teach a few classes at home in the future. I will be sure and put them on my blog.
FAMILY HISTORY THEMED CANVAS

1. Colour you canvas by wiping it with a dampened sponge dipped in ‘lettuce’ colour wash, Leave to dry.
2. Cut out a piece from your patterned paper 18.5 x 18.5 cm. Reserve the rest for later.
3. Ink the edges of your cut out square by swiping a blue ink pad lightly over them.
4. This is where you get to be creative. Make up 3 flowers to your own design by arranging the shapes and gluing the layers together.
5. Make up the mini envelop with the pattern on the inside. Glue together. Fold the blue card and put it in the envelope. Tie your narrow ribbon around the envelope and knot.
6. Lay your flowers, photo, and envelope on your square of patterned paper in a design that you like. Remember to allow room for the ribbon to fit on the bottom of the canvas. When you are happy with your design glue the pieces on. Use photo stickers to attach the photo.
7. Attach the whole thing to your canvas using PVA glue sparingly.
8. Ink the edges of your canvas if liked.
9. Tear a strip of the remaining patterned paper approx. 28cm long- enough to cover the front and edges of your canvas. Ink the edges. Using a glue dot at each end, attach to your canvas.
10. Take the longer piece of blue ribbon and lay it over the torn strip. Attach with glue dots.
11. Use shorter piece or ribbon to make a bow and attach with a glue dot.

Crop again

2009-08-29T10:52:00.000-07:00

It's our crop on saturday 12th. Sadly Jules can't be with us as she has a family commitment. Thankfully Caroline from Skrapz was able to step into the breech. They always bring lots of yummy stash- so be prepared:) It's the day before I go to America for 3 weeks, so don't let me spend anything!! I need every penny for that. Hope to see you there.

The Photograph

2009-08-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

It's how and why scrapbooking started. The photograph. My son is loving his camera and for my birthday took some great pictures at our family picnic. I have had 2 put on to 18" x 20" canvases and I am loving them!!!! It just made me think- am I taking enough quality photos? And am I doing enough with them? These are a couple of the photos that Matt took.

Lot's happening

2009-08-18T12:57:00.000-07:00

So here's what we have provisionally booked in for classes/workshops for Chase Scrappers.
September- Jules class
October - possibly Rachel Allen
November - Margaret Dunning
December Ellie's class
2010
May - Gallery Textiles
later in the year we have Shimelle and Jane Pope
All of these classes are sounding really good- I'm excited! Some of them are going to be expensive. Although we are now supported with money for the hire of the hall we are still going to be very short of what we need. Any ideas? Maybe we could do a bit of fundraising?? Let me know what you think.
I'm in a scrapping frenzy at the mo. I've just completed a 30th anniversary mini book for my hubby and I. Can't believe it's been that long and that happy:) I've started working on a travel journal for my trip to America NEXT MONTH- whoop!!! I will post pics soon.