Crescent Stampin

Baroque Motifs Stamp Class

2012-02-11T11:05:00.005Z

Hi Lovelies ;-D

It seems I am only updating every couple of weeks at the moment! How is it that I am busier than I ever was when I went out to work?? Anyway.......I am here today to show you my latest Stamp Class for next Tuesday using the lovely Baroque Motifs............I hope you think it was worth the wait!!
I chose to use Soft Suede teamed with the gorgeous new colour Lucky Limeade and I must say I am in love with the colour combo, I think they compliment each other brilliantly! A little Very Vanilla completes the set.
There is quite a lot of fiddly cutting out here, but I think you will agree that this particular stamp set lends itself very well to all the layering and of course the gorgeous large swirl makes a beautiful statement all on it's own.

I made a little hexagon basket using one and a half of the milk carton dies with the top portions cut away.......it turned out quite well I think.....
I hope you have enjoyed your visit today, see you soon,
Carol xxx

Cupcake Crazy!!

2012-01-31T12:16:00.014Z

Hi everyone ;-D I hope you are all managing to keep nice & warm in this cold weather Brrr!

Here with pictures of my Stamp Class for this evening....Cupcake Crazy

I have used the ever useful 'Crazy for Cupcakes' stamp set and of course the fab little wheel for my class tonight, all with the colours of Perfect Plum, Certainly Celery and Melon Mambo. I've used touches of Pretty in Pink paper & ribbon to accent the cards and also mixed a little bit of Tempting Turquoise on the images.

Our brilliant Blender pens have been used to colour the images using the ink from the lid of the inkpad and some added bling with Dazzling Diamonds. Several punches have been used as they always add that something extra to a simple card, although I have not been lucky enough to snag myself the cupcake punch yet.......it's on my list!!! Please let me know if you need anymore information on the supplies used, or indeed if you would like to place an order with me..........and don't forget you can choose any item FREE from the Sale-a-Bration leaflet with an order of £45.......just check the brochure in my side bar!

Some closer looks.............. this one is 'paper pieced'

Showing the fab little wheel......

And last but not least......an Easel card......

I have a place or two available on tonight's class so let me know if you would like to join us at Putnoe Heights MK41 8EB...... 7pm to 9.30pm........ £10.......... give me a ring 07834 282749

Thanks for popping in today, see you soon,
Carol xxx

'My Friend' Stamp Class

2012-01-17T09:57:00.008Z

Hello peeps!
My regular Tuesday Stamp classes resume again this evening so I am here to show tonight's class........
I have made 3 cards and a Tic-Tac holder using the 'My Friend' set from the new Mini catalogue and the In Colours for 2011-2013.

Decided to turn the 'raindrops' upside down and turn them into flowers ;-) with the help of the Big Shot and the Little Leaves sizzlit die......and of course a little Diamond Dust!

This sympathy card was stamped with our white ink and then coloured in with the Watercolour pencils.......I also inked the inside of the Beautiful Wings embosslit with a marker pen before running it through the Big Shot.......it gives a nice subtle hint of colour to the butterflies. The sentiment 'to heal your heart' is from Petite Pairs......such a useful set!

And lastly a monochromatic look with Island Indigo....I currently only have the Stampin Write Markers in these colours and not the full size inkpads but it just goes to show that you can make pretty cards without having ALL the gear!!!

I hope you have enjoyed today's cards and do let me know if I can help you out with any supplies......I will be placing another order towards the end of the week, so give me a call 07834 282749 if you would like to add something for yourself!

Also,I have places available on this class tonight.....I know it's very short notice but if you would like to come along just give me a ring......we are very friendly and sometimes a little too relaxed but we have a laugh which is always good ;-D

See you soon,
Carol xxx

Update.........

2012-01-06T10:09:00.003Z

.......I am still alive!!!

Happy New Year to you all and apologies for not being here recently but sometimes life just takes over and the crafting has to go on the 'back burner'!

All that aside, I will be resuming my classes at Putnoe Heights on the 17th and would love to see some new faces :-D The classes are relaxed and more importantly fun! Do you fancy a new hobby for the New Year? We make cards, gift items, boxes etc etc all with the fabulous Stampin' Up! products that I can offer you! And.................for the first time ever in the U.K. we have a Spring Mini Catalogue which is bursting with brand new products for us all to order and get busy with!
To view the catalogue just click on the image above...............

You can place an order with me, which I can have sent directly to your address! Or, to try out some of the gorgeous products, why not come along to my classes which run every fortnight on a Tuesday evening from 7 to 9.30 pm commencing on the 17th January..........give me a call on 07834 282749 or you can reach me via e-mail carol@casamiacrafts.co.uk or message me on my Facebook page......https://www.facebook.com/stampycarol

See you soon,
Carol xxx

Serene Snowflakes ~ One Sheet Wonder

2011-11-22T09:33:00.004Z

Hi everyone! Hope you are all well and enjoying some time doing 'crafty things' ;-D

Here are my latest projects using the 'one sheet wonder' idea.........basically, you choose a stamp set and some inkpads in different colours and you cover a whole sheet of A4 to make your own 'patterned' paper! This can then be cut into different sized portions to decorate cards or 3D items.

This set is my Stamp Class for this evening.........

Four cards and a very quick little box which is hiding an Aero Christmas Tree! but you could put some jewellery or any other smallish item in there.
The colours I've used are Baja Breeze, Crumb Cake, Soft Suede and Marina Mist along with Very Vanilla. I have spritzed some of the pieces with Champagne Mist shimmer paint but unfortunately that never shows in the photo's........it looks so pretty too!

Off to bake some Chocolate Crinkle Cookies now to take with me tonight......please give me a call 07834 282749 if you would like to come along to my Stamp Class tonight or indeed anytime in the future.
I have just filled in my form for the whole of next year and will be doing TWO All Day Retreats in 2012.............so watch this space for further details x

Have a lovely day......see you soon,
Carol xxx

Long time no blogging!!

2011-11-06T15:48:00.005Z

Well it's slapped wrists for me as it has been over a month since I last posted anything here! I have been busy doing other things like.........spending 12 days in the beautiful 4star 'Baia Grande' Hotel and catching up on some long overdue household jobs!!

Back today to show you my Stamp Class projects for Tuesday 8th........hope you like them!
Let me know if you would like to come and join us - My contact details are on a tab at the top of this page ;-D

I've used the lovely little set 'Pines & Poinsettias' along with some sentiments from other sets, The Top Note and Perfect Pennants dies together with some of the speciality papers from Holly Berry Bouquet. And............some of the gorgeous Glass Glitter which is sooo sparkly!

Please let me know if you have any questions about the projects above or if you would like to come to this class, or any of my future classes. Next year will see the start of my 8th year helping people to make beautiful cards for a hobby or to turn into your own little business like I have.

Hope to see you again soon and thanks for any comments you may leave,
Carol xxx

New Catalogue

2011-10-01T10:18:00.002+01:00

Sooo many fabulous new products and make sure you check out the new Hostess rewards.......all change this time round! Now you can choose exactly what you would like to spend your Hostess £'s on ;-D
Contact me soon to book your party or to place your order - or - If you have a very long list once you have browsed through, why not join my new Stampers 10 group? details at the top of my blog......check the Virtual Hostess tab.
Hope to see you quite soon with some creations made with some of those delicious new goodies!!!
Take Care,
Carol xxx

Happy Anniversary!

2011-09-05T07:22:00.003+01:00

A little card I made for my husband...........30 years today!

and the inside..............
mind you......................so do I ;-D

See you soon,
Carol xxx

Stamp Class...........in progress!

2011-08-26T16:01:00.004+01:00

Hi Ladies ;-D
My regular Stamp classes resume on Tuesday 30th August and I have made a good start on our first class of the season!
We will be working with 'Ornate Flowers' and a colour scheme of Certainly Celery, Rose Red, Pretty in Pink and Whisper White..........I have places available if you would like to come along and join us! and I have the key, so no rushing you out if you haven't quite finished!!

These samples are what I have made so far but I will be adding to them over the weekend.......maybe a box or bag to go with them or maybe a couple more cards.........haven't quite decided yet :-)

If you think you may like to come and join us, drop me an e-mail carol@casamiacrafts.co.uk or give me a ring 07834 282749 it would be lovely to see some new faces to join myself and all my regular lovely ladies!

See you soon,
Carol xxx

My Summer!?* break!

2011-08-20T19:01:00.009+01:00

Hello Everyone ;-D
You may already know that I allow myself July and August 'off ' from my papercrafting to pursue others hobbies and life in general.........however, I always hold a "Christmas in July" event and this year was no exception!

You will have noticed a couple of sneak peeks at the projects and some of my lovely attendees showed them on their own blogs, but I have yet to show you the 'full monty'! so here they are...................We have the now famous (in blogland!) Curly Paper Wreath, My own design for an A4 Clipboard Advent Calendar, and a set of four cards in an Acetate box complete with a covered wooden bauble!
Here are some close ups...............
My thanks once again to the 11 lovely ladies that came along.......Caroline, Daphne, Carol, Sue, Wendy, Kirstie, Brenda, Brenda, Rosie, Heather & Marie who came all the way from Kings Lynn!
and HUGE thanks to the lovely Sandra Candlish who came along to lend a hand even though she was feeling poorly :(
Hope to see you all again at my next all day event.......I will keep you posted!

And.......last but not least my regular Tuesday Stamp Classes resume for the Autumn term on August 30th......check the Stamp Class tab at the top! Maybe you like what you see and want to come along and join in, I have plenty of room for more ;-D
The first class will be cards etc made with Ornate Flowers.

In the words of the Beyonce track 'strong enough to bear the children, then get back to business!

see you soon ;-D
Carol xxx

How many days?....

2011-07-20T10:23:00.004+01:00

Hi Ladies,

Back again today with a sneak peek at another of Saturday's projects! This is my own design and it has turned out o.k. .........................you will have to wait until after my 'Christmas in July' event to see the full reveal but I hope you will enjoy the little taster! ;-D

Have a lovely day.......it's back to the craft desk for me!

See you soon,
Carol xxx

Christmas in July Retreat

2011-07-18T15:20:00.004+01:00

Hi Everyone ;-D

I have been away for a while busy with workshops and working on projects for my Christmas in July Retreat.
Here is a sneak peek at one of the projects this year.......and be prepared to work hard this year ladies, we have a lot to get through!

See you all on Saturday......please try to arrive about 10 mins before start time of 10am!

Carol xxx

Tonight's Stamp Class...

2011-06-21T15:18:00.004+01:00

Hi Everyone,
Just a flying visit to show the samples for my last class of the season.....

'Summer Meadows'
using Pocket Silhouettes & Flight of the Butterfly

If you have any questions, please let me know!

Must dash now to pack my trolleys and then bath & tidy up this bird's nest that is otherwise known as Hair!!!
Sorry for the flying visit but hopefully I will be back soon with some Christmas projects that I have lined up for my all day event on July 23rd.......................I still have spaces available if you would like to attend ;-D

Contact details are up at the top if you think you may like to come along or if you need me for anything else.....

Be Happy ;-D
Carol xxx

Cards for Men!

2011-06-14T17:33:00.004+01:00

Hi Lovelies ;-D

Just popping on really quickly to show you my class for this Thursday evening..........'I've called the class 'Boys to Men' and I, like everyone else.................do not really enjoy making cards for the men!! I would much rather make something pretty........but hey! here they are.......................

I laughed when I saw the photo............it looks like the card with the oak tree is perched atop the other one!! It isn't :-) Note to self..........be more careful when laying up for photo's!

I have had one cancellation today for this class so if you are reading this and would like to come along just call or e-mail.

Off to sort dinner now, If you have any questions let me know x
See you soon,
Carol xxx

CD/DVD Wallet - Father's Day Tutorial

2011-06-10T12:08:00.031+01:00

Hi again!
Here is my adapted version of a CD/DVD Wallet.........

Cut 1pc cardstock to 4.3/4" x 11.5/8" (length of A4) Score @ 3" & 3.1/8" from each end
Trim the piece you have left over to 3" x 11.5/8" and score from each end @ 3.7/16"

Add sticky strip and join this smaller piece together as shown below

Add a glue dot to each corner, also do the same to the larger piece on the bottom flap.....Then tuck the smaller folded piece inside the flap and press together when you are all lined up!

oops! bit fuzzy sorry!!

Decorate & fill as desired! If you have any questions let me know ;-D

See you soon, have a lovely weekend............in spite of the weather forecast!!!
Carol xxx

It's Nearly Time.......

2011-06-10T11:11:00.005+01:00

....for all the Dad's out there to have their special day, so I have a little something to show you!

Now, I went to my favourite place(scs) to find a tutorial for a CD case but only to discover that the measurements were wrong and it wouldn't work!! so.......................I adapted it and came up with this one :-)
If you want to have a go I will add the little tutorial on a seperate post in a few minutes......
Of course I know you will be treating your Dad on the 18th.................if your Dad is not around anymore why not spoil someone else's Dad! after all they are special every day not just one day of the year!

watch out for the tutorial shortly........
Carol xxx

Tuesday Stamp Class

2011-06-06T21:53:00.007+01:00

Hi Everyone,
Just popping on to show you my projects so far for tomorrow's Stamp Class.......made with the gorgeous & versatile 'Greenhouse Garden'

A couple of cards

and a CD Holder

I think I should have taken the photo's a little earlier in the day as they look rather 'washed out' they are so much brighter and the colours are very pretty together!

We have Melon Mambo, Certainly Celery, & Baja Breeze, along with some Perfect Plum, Rich Razz & Pretty in Pink. I started with making a 'one sheet wonder' by randomly stamping all the images in all the colours onto a sheet of A4 Whisper White...........which can then be cut up to use on the various items you are making. Saves a lot of time too!
There are no leaves in this particular set so I have used some from Baby Blossoms & Vintage Vogue to fill the gaps.

Thanks for your visit today and I will see you soon with some more creations ;-D
Carol xxx

Abducted by Aliens!!!

2011-06-05T10:21:00.008+01:00

.....Fortunately not!! although I have not written a blog post for over a week!! so you could have been mistaken for thinking that's what might have happened ;-D

How are you all? I have been sooo busy and had so much on my mind that blogging has had to take a back seat this last week or so! However, I did have four lovely ladies around for a Mini class on Thursday evening, which went something like this...............

The fabulous 'Scallop Envelope Die' (exclusive to us at Stampin' Up! so get in touch if you need one! *wink*)
Now, I am sure you have all seen various projects with this die all over the web so if you just do a bit of googling you will find endless ways of using this brilliant piece of kit! and.................once you have made the boxes/baskets etc etc then you can fill them with whatever takes your fancy before you give them away!
As you can see I popped some Stampin' Up! goodies in one, a lovely brown eyeshadow in another and just filled the other with shredded card.........for the time being!
Thanks to Kirstie, Peggy, Peggy's granddaughter(sorry! your name escapes me just at the minute) and Sue S for coming around to play with me! We did miss Wendy, Heather, Sue W and Rosie though and hope you can join us again very soon :)

And .....just before I go here are a few more samples made with the die....
Have a great Sunday everyone and watch out for those spaceships!!!
Carol xxx

Bleach & Glitter!!

2011-05-27T09:08:00.006+01:00

Happy Friday everyone ;-D

Just popping on this morning to show you what my ladies got up to at Tuesday's stamp class.....

Firstly, some samples made with the gorgeous 'Growing Green' stamp set..........and who would have thought that Soft Suede cardstock would turn this lovely sunny yellow when painted with bleach! I haven't tried this technique for a while and was pleasantly suprised to discover what pretty shades were emerging from the different colours of cardstock.
As you can see from the photo it's almost identical to Daffodil Delight......and this set is perfect for making your own background paper too!

I welcomed three new ladies to the class on Tuesday......Peggy, Mel & Sam... introduced to me & Stampin'Up! by Kirstie & Rosie............so girls, do remind me what you would like as your prize!

We also worked with 'Crazy for Cupcakes' which is a perfect 'girly' set.........although not forgetting the boys with the balloon card..............
It's hard to see in the photo but the balloons have been covered with Crystal Effects and all the cupcakes have been 'blinged up' beautifully with Dazzling Diamonds and sprinklings of Rhinestones.......lovely!
We missed lovely Sue on Tuesday..............Sue I hope your Mum is o.k. sending my very best wishes to you all xx
Thanks to my other Tuesday lovelies......Wendy, Heather, Sue W, & Rosie you make me laugh & smile and I love sharing my time with you all x

I will be seeing some of you next Thursday at my mini class and don't forget if you have not booked your place yet there are just two spaces left now......

I will be placing an order tomorrow, so if there is anyone that 'needs' anything just e-mail or phone...

If you have any questions about the projects above or indeed if I can help you out with anything else, just let me know.....have a fabulous Bank Holiday weekend and I'll see you very soon ;-D
Carol xxx

It's Party Time! .........already!

2011-05-24T08:02:00.007+01:00

This is my beautiful Granddaughter Louise having fun at her first Birthday party yesterday afternoon. Granddad and I went along to join in, armed with platefuls of cakes ;-)

It does not seem five minutes since I got the phone call to say she had arrived and now she is opening her presents and just starting to walk!!

Lots of new toys and clothes to wear......................................this is what I made for her this year......................A hooded kaftan.............................the original design in the book had embroidery around the neckline and on the sleeves but I decided to knit the little flowers and leaves instead! I can't wait to see her in it ;-D
To go along with the present was her card............

A three fold affair with balloons on the inside and of course the sentiment, a bit of paper piecing and the obligatory Dazzling Diamonds!
Needless to say the Melon Mambo coupled with the Sweet & Sour DSP made this the brightest card she received *wink* and took pride of place up on a high shelf!

Off now to carry on with my prep for class this evening.............two stamp sets, bleach & glitter.....I must be mad!!!!!

See you soon,
Carol xxx

A Sunny card....

2011-05-22T18:18:00.004+01:00

for a windy day!! Gosh, I hope you are keeping safe out there in these blustery conditions.....I hate the wind and so do the cats......all 5 of us have been in all day today!

I have been so busy this weekend, finishing Louise's Birthday present, making her card along with helping eldest daughter to dye her hair and class prep for next week so the furthest I've been is up the garden to have a chat with the Ducks! - they don't seem to mind the gale that's blowing :-)

I've also been playing around with bleach, not housework of course but cardmaking.................

The flowers here from the ethereal Growing Green have been painted with regular household bleach! As you can see it turns the Soft Suede cardstock a gorgeous yellow which is almost identical to Daffodil Delight...............I was very pleasantly suprised to discover this today!
Tip - Chocolate Chip turns VERY similar to So Saffron and Basic Grey goes to River Rock - have a go and see for yourselves!

Must go and see about something for dinner......I've just realised I've only eaten two yoghurts so far today!! no wonder I can feel a headache looming :(

See you soon,
Carol xxx

The last card.....

2011-05-20T08:19:00.004+01:00

Morning Ladies ;-D

Before I get started on my day I thought I would pop on here and show you my last card (for a while anyway!) using the Top Note die.
I still had all the papers and card out from my recent creations so before I got ready for my mini class last night I made one more..................

a really simple Birthday card for my stock box! We all need loads of those don't we? and speaking of Birthday's.......................the last year has flown by yet again and my youngest gorgeous Granddaughter is 1 on Monday........... Here is Louise & big sis Danielle taken at a photo shoot about a month ago...............Love the bones of em'

See you soon and have a great weekend!
Carol xxx

Top Note Trio!

2011-05-18T10:05:00.009+01:00

Happy Wednesday to you all ;-D

I'm back today to show you a couple of other things I designed using the fab Top Note die........exclusive to Stampin'Up!

Check out my FREE tutorial from yesterday if you would like to make the little box/bag..... I also designed another treat holder which again would be perfect to demo at a workshop and give to the Hostess.....
I filled it with some Rhinestones, Buttons and a metre of the Night of Navy satin ribbon...

And.............a card to match the set, folded and placed just below the top of the cutting area of the die.....

Here is a picture of all my efforts together...........
I have to go now and cut all my card for tomorrow's mini class but when I get chance I will pop back and share with you how I made the little handbag........top right in the photo....

Enjoy your day and I'll see you very soon....
Carol xxx

FREE Top Note Tutorial

2011-05-17T18:02:00.017+01:00

Hi Lovelies ;-D

I'm back today to share with you my tutorial for this cute little box/bag.........

There are lots of pictures so I won't do much talking! (makes a change!!) The photo's are pretty much self explanatory but if you have any questions let me know ;-D

Top Note Box/Bag Tutorial
designed & created by
Carol Houghton 17th May 2011

Cut two Top Note pieces and score as shown above.

Tip ~ If you score at 1/2" on all sides instead you will have a slightly larger finished item & also you could leave out the eyelets and ribbon handle and then you'll have a cute box instead!

**************

Remove sticky strip covering and fold tabs in to make a 'half box' on one piece, flip the other piece over and add sticky strip as shown

Make into 'half box' and 'tuck in' to the previous piece to complete the box

Add jumbo eyelets to each side, thread ribbon through and knot ends to hold in place.
Decorate and fill as desired!
***
I hope you have enjoyed this tutorial today, let me know if you make any for Hostess gifts and how they were received ;-D

have fun making yours!

Back tomorrow with some more Top Note ideas....
See you then,
Carol xxx

Cute little Hostess gift

2011-05-16T12:26:00.004+01:00

Hi Everyone ;-D
I have been working on some new projects this morning and have designed and made this little gift......using the Top Note die for the Big Shot! This is an exclusive die to Stampin'Up! so just let me know if you would like to order one for yourself!
It would be perfect for a party Hostess or for a stamping friend. This particular one contains an Old Olive stamping spot and a metre of wide striped grosgrain ribbon. I've popped them inside a small cello bag and tied with Linen thread.

I've stamped one of the flowers from the Ornate Flowers set and also the Elegant Thank You in Rich Razz and Old Olive to match my colours but you could put anything you wish on the front!

I will be posting a tutorial for this here soon (my husband has gone off with my camera today, hence the small picture uploaded from my phone!!) so look out for that, hopefully tomorrow!

Off now to see what else I can come up with ;-D

See you soon,
Carol xxx

Clearly for You - Tonight's Stamp Class

2011-05-10T07:19:00.006+01:00

Hi Everyone ;-D

Up early today so I thought I would pop on and show the project samples for tonight's Stamp Class..................................
It has been fun making up these samples in my wacky choice of colours but I am quite pleased with the results! Of course if you attend my Stamp classes you know that you are free to change the colour scheme if you wish as I bring lots of card in all the colours, so no problem there!

If you click on the photo you can get a closer look at all the fab stamps in this set.........they are small but with 12 stamps in the box they are great value for money. They are good for a focal point on the card or perfect for making your own designer paper as you can see on the card far left in the picture.

Right, I'm off to do some housework now......the landing curtains could do with coming down and then I suppose it will be a death defying manoeuvre to clean the window!!!
I may even have some time later to try something 3D to go with this little lot!

supplies
Marina Mist, Old Olive, Rich Razzleberry & More Mustard card - along with Whisper White
Inks - same as above & Versamark
Satin Ribbon - Old Olive, Rich Razzleberry, Marina Mist
Punches -Ex Large Oval, 1" Circle, 1.1/4" Circle, Scallop Edge Border, Scallop Trim Border, Word Window, Decorative Label.
Embossing Folders - Square Lattice, Vintage Wallpaper
Blender Pens, Colour Spritzer
Happy Birthday sentiment is from Perfect Punches

See you soon,
Carol xxx

Mini Class - Scallop Circle Die

2011-05-06T18:01:00.011+01:00

Hello Everyone ;-D
It's been a lovely day here today in Bedford..............lots more sunshine and warmth which is all good!!

My mini class last night was full and the ladies that attended enjoyed making the projects shown here.......................
In the centre we have a basket made from two scallop circles and some extra card for the base & handle (original idea from Sandi MacIver) and a gorgeous layered flower.
Then a simple 'dress' card made by cutting away some of the scallop circle.......lots of examples around the blogosphere!

The circular card is simply created by pre-folding your card and putting the double layer through the Big Shot, remembering to have the fold at the top and 'missing out' the top four scallops.
Then lastly, the little Rose Red treat holder which again, is on lots of blogs, although folded many different ways, some with a handle some without!
The little sweeties inside this treat holder are called Sour Apples and they are............................SO SOUR but delicious!! made by The Fudge Tree Co.

Thanks to Sue, Wendy, Rosie, Heather, Sue W and Kirstie......glad you enjoyed the projects and I look forward to seeing you all on Tuesday for our regular Stamp Class at the church :)
Congrats to Sue W. on winning the raffle and guess what......................................I forgot to take a photo!!!

I have a busy weekend with family getting together but I may get just a bit of stamping time tomorrow! If you have any questions let me know and I'll get back to you soon.

Have a great weekend,
Carol xxx

Sneaky peek.......

2011-05-05T12:30:00.004+01:00

......at two of tonight's four projects.......yes Ladies! you will need to work reasonably quickly to complete all four!! but more or less everything is cut for you so that makes it a whole lot easier ;-D

Even I (serial stash buyer extraordinaire!) have only 1 Big Shot machine!!!!! (for now *wink*)
You will be making two cards and two 3D items using the fabulous scallop circle die, along with some other dies and embellishments.
There will also be a Raffle to win a stamp set - tickets £2 each or £5 per strip, so do make sure you pop in some extra cash for that as well :-)
plus

place an order with me at class this evening for the Scallop Circle die for just
£15
(cash only please)

I will be back tomorrow to reveal the rest of the projects and the lucky Raffle winner!

Till then, Take Care x
Carol xxx

Saturday's Craft Fayre........

2011-05-02T10:00:00.007+01:00

....was a bit of a non-starter!!! Unfortunately there were not that many people through the door and in hindsight I guess I should have realised that with it being a Bank Holiday weekend!!!!

However, I did meet some lovely ladies and chatted to a few about maybe having a workshop and also a couple of young ladies that are getting married later this year and next year. They were interested in the various items I had on my table that would be perfect for table favours, so something may develop from that :-)

Here are some photo's of my display.......
And on a lighter note, my gorgeous girls were here yesterday and enjoyed playing with an empty Stampin' Up! delivery box....................
Such a cute cheeky face!

Well it's back to normality for me today getting on with the prep for my Scallop Circle class on Thursday..................I still have two places available if you would like to join us! 2.1/2 hours with refreshments............ give me a call 07834 282749 ;-D

Till next time ~ Take care,
Carol xxx

Been Busy!!!....................

2011-04-30T07:48:00.002+01:00

............making stuff for the Craft Fayre today! should have some photo's later! If you are anywhere near Flitwick Village Hall today between 11 and 4pm pop in and say Hello! ;-D I'm hoping for a good day as the event has been very well advertised and my aim is to let more people know about Stampin' Up! You would be suprised how many have never heard of it!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wish me luck *wink*
See you soon,
Carol xxx

Baby Blossoms Stamp Class 26th April 2011

2011-04-26T12:09:00.005+01:00

Hello to you all on this chilly Tuesday! It is a bit of a shock to the system after all this glorious sunshine we have been enjoying...........even our poor Tortoise doesn't know whether he is coming or going ;-D

I have finished(apart from the inside of the cards!) my latest Stamp Class using the gorgeous Baby Blossoms stamp set from the mini catalogue. I am sure my lovely ladies that attend my Tuesday class will enjoy making these this evening.................................
I have space available still if you would like to attend (e-mail or phone) and because I bring lots of supplies you could always change the colours if you wish! I think my favourites are the cards with the Not Quite Navy base as this really makes the little blossoms pop!!
I have to say I am not really a 'blue' person but this is making me enjoy using it a lot more.

The Springtime Vintage papers are a perfect match for this stamp set and all the different colours allow you to choose a wide range of inks and card to go with it, I may be tempted to try this whole lot in another colourway.........maybe go for a more 'vintagey' look with Crumb cake and Soft Suede...........mmm! lots to do before tonight so I had best get on!!!

I hope I have inspired you to get inky today! Any questions, just let me know..... Thanks for coming in to take a peep and I will see you very soon ;-D

Carol xxx
ETA.............look what just arrived with my post.........A belated Birthday gift & card!........Thank You Monica x x I love it! I have been very good over Easter so these choccies will NOT be shared ;-D Huge Hugs my lovelyxx

Baby Blossoms W.I.P........

2011-04-24T10:35:00.004+01:00

Good Morning to you all on this glorious Easter Sunday!

I have popped on to show you my Baby Blossoms Stamp Class for Tuesday, although it is a work in progress as I will be adding a few more items to these three cards! I have chance to stamp again tomorrow so I am going to try a Milk Carton and maybe a Pillow Box too ;-D

Here is what I have designed so far.............This set is SO versatile and although the individual stamps are small you can create endless looks from all the different pieces and it is suitable for so many occasions throughout the year!

I have availability left for the class on Tuesday, so contact me if you would like to come along! Click the link for more details and contact info!

Have a wonderful day and thanks for popping in! ;-D
See you soon,
Carol xxx

Mini Class

2011-04-22T09:52:00.004+01:00

Morning Everyone ;-D HAPPY EASTER!

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend doing whatever you enjoy most!!

I had three lovely ladies at my home for last night's Mini Class and they made the following cards....................The 4 x 4 card (bottom left) was inspired by a swap given to me at team training earlier this month made by the lovely Jo.
Jo is a warm yorkshire lass who has recently become a Grandma following the birth of her gorgeous Grandson Archie! pop over to her blog and be inspired by her simple but elegant style - leave her some bloggy love and tell her I sent ya!!

The theme for last night's Mini Class was Vellum & Embossing and with some weddings coming up I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to create some styles suitable for those!

Thanks to Sue, Sue & Heather for coming along and I want to say to Rosie.....I hope you feel better soon and that you & Steve have a brilliant time next week on Holiday! We look forward to seeing you at next class ;-D xx
We are also missing the lovely Wendy....... hope to see you soon, we are not laughing nearly as much without you!!! xx

Next mini class at my home is on the 5th of May where we will be working with the fab Scallop Circle Die (pg7 mini catalogue) If you would like to come along please e-mail carol@casamiacrafts.co.uk or phone 07834 282749 to book your place! Alternatively, you may wish to join us at our main classes which are held at Putnoe Heights Church - details are on the Stamp Classes tab just under my header picture.....................hope to see you soon..............have a fabulous weekend and try not to eat TOO MUCH CHOCOLATE!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for popping in today.........
Carol xxx

Copper & Netting!!

2011-04-20T11:42:00.008+01:00

Morning Everyone ;-D

Before I go out in the garden and enjoy some of this lovely sunny weather, I thought I would take you back in time a little bit!

Remember this stuff?If you are a 'seasoned' crafter you will more than likely remember these art foils from several years back! Well, I found this in a cupboard recently and decided to give it a modern funky look
and give it the Big Shot treatment!! I LOVE the result....................................

and I'm sure I don't need to remind you what happens to copper when you heat it................Isn't it fab? I popped it outside on a tree to take the photo and I think the sunshine enhanced it even more.
I also found some white netting so that got Bigshotted! too :)

Lots & lots of layers! ......................may turn this into a brooch, not sure yet :)

One thing I AM sure of.........you best beware when you come to visit!! Be careful what you wear and what you are carrying - I may just be tempted to Bigshot it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have fun today and enjoy the sunshine and if you have any questions let me know ;-D
See you soon,
Carol xxx

Better Brooches!!

2011-04-18T22:37:00.007+01:00

Hi Folks ;-D

After trying out some of the Wilted Flower Ribbon Brooches the other day I wasn't particularly happy with the results, so I knew I had to have another go and see if I could do a better job!!

And I did.........................I have another Craft event on the 30th, so I will try and fill up my case a little before that!

These are a little different to the first couple I made and instead of a 1.3/8" circle to back them with, I used a 1.3/4" circle, so they are slightly larger. I used Crystal Effects to glue on the brooch backs which worked perfectly and I think they look rather 'swanky' in my lovely vintage style box case!

Hope to see you again very soon, bye for now ;-D

ETA - I've just found out that my Fabric Flower(see post below this one) made it into the favourites of the week over at Splitcoast :) Yay!!!!
Congratulations! In the General Stamping Talk forum, you're in the FAVORITES for the week ending April 17, 2011. See post #20.
Carol xxx

Find your fat quarters.............

2011-04-13T08:57:00.003+01:00

..........and turn them into these..........

I was having a play around yesterday with my Big Shot from Stampin'Up! and realised that I have lots of 'fat quarters' in a draw upstairs so I decided to rummage them out and have a go at making a fabric flower! Because of course, the Big Shot cuts fabric too ;-D
I used one of the flowers from the Fun Flowers die and cut my fabric into small squares before rolling through............it cuts several in one roll, so very quick & easy!!

I think this first one will be going on a card, but I will try some more maybe with buttons in the centre and then turn them into brooches!

Both my Granddaughters are arriving for the day soon, so I don't think I will have much time today for 'Bigshotting' *smile* In the meantime, why not give these a try!!

'Happy Bigshotting'

See you tomorrow.
Carol xxx

Testing the water.............

2011-04-12T10:43:00.004+01:00

Hi Lovelies ;-D

I have another all day Craft Fair on saturday and I am going to 'test the water' with some new items!

The first of which is this desktop note holder. I first saw a similar one on Emma's blog and managed to get hold of some of the acrylic poster holders in a share on the forum I belong to ~ you must pop over and visit Emma she does some gorgeous things with her Stampin'Up! goodies......lots of inspiration for you!!

I have several of these holders in landscape & portrait, so I will try a few more! I am satisfied with this first one and luckily the note pad & pen work quite well with the 'Sweet & Sour' DSP.

Next up is my attempt at a 'Wilted Flower Brooch'...........now there are several videos and tutorials for this one in Blogland but I tried my hand at one after seeing it on Amanda's blog ~ shes has step by step pictures and very easy to follow instructions too!
Oh! and Amanda, if you are popping in for a look, my first attempt is a little shabby!! to say the least *wink* the second go was much better!!
Right! I need to go now and pack for my Stamp Class this evening........I still have space for some more peeps if you would like to join us.........anyone is welcome and we don't bite ;-D

Enjoy the sunshine and thanks for dropping in today!
See you soon,
Carol xxx

Peterborough Swaps

2011-04-11T18:34:00.004+01:00

Hi Everyone ;-D

A fabulous day was had by all at Monica & Bekka's training day in Peterborough , with wonderful make & takes and sound business advice. Outstanding demonstrations from Val, Karen & Rebecca, and of course lots of lovely new swaps for our inspiration boards..................

Aren't they fab!!! I will be having my regular Tuesday Stamp Class tomorrow evening and taking along my display board with all these new lovely creations attached.
Some had choccy inside and some had lovely herbal tea and this is the perfect chance for me to say Thank You to all the lovely ladies that swapped with me yesterday and I cannot wait to show them to all my ladies!

I also want to thank Sue for coming along with me and also Sandra........great to have some company for the journey and I hope you both enjoyed your day as much as I did :)
Huge thanks to everyone for the Birthday wishes and to Sue, Marlene & Vannessa for my Birthday cards.........................Stampin' Up! is a fab company to work alongside and has enabled me to meet such fantastic people who have now become friends...............long may it continue ;-D

See you soon,
Carol xxx

Test Tube Easter Treats

2011-04-09T19:20:00.005+01:00

Hello Everyone ;-D
Feeling a bit 'worse for wear' today after a night on the town last night for my leaving do! We had a lovely meal at Mama Mia followed by several drinkies and lots of booty shaking!!

I never learn my lesson and now I'm suffering as my right knee is agony again today but hey ho! you only live once and I thoroughly enjoyed myself even though today I've been a bit 'fragile' *wink*

I put together several of these Test Tube Treats to sell at recent craft events and realised today that I had not shown you a closer look at them.......they have proved very popular with my customers and will have one more outing before I give them away for Easter.

ETA....I had an order for 14 of these for a Baby Shower (Thanks Sarah!) and I used the little baby head image(All in the family) and gave them rosy cheeks with Pink Pirouette and a blender pen.........................forgot to take a photo grrr! I hope they were well received at the shower :)

I'm off to Peterborough tomorrow to meet up with lots of other Demo's for a training day with lots of crafting too!
Need to get on now and finish my swaps and then have an early night!!!

See you soon,
Carol xxx

and there's more............

2011-04-08T10:46:00.005+01:00

Hello Lovelies ;-D

I thought Iwould quickly pop on and show you the other two cards that I've made for my Stamp Class next Tuesday.......
I hope my ladies will enjoy playing with this new stamp set and matching punch as much as I have! If I had more time I wonder what else I could come up with?
The papers in the Springtime Vintage Suite are so pretty, it has been such fun to play around with them and I am loving the new Seam Binding Ribbon! ...................the other two colours will be on my next order!!!

Well, I must get on now as I have lots to do before getting ready for my 'leaving do' in town tonight! If I don't have too much of a sore head tomorrow, I may even try and design a box or bag for this lot!!!
If you have any questions, just let me know.....................see you soon and thanks for popping in today ;-D

Carol xxx

First two samples......

2011-04-06T11:02:00.004+01:00

Hi Everyone ;-D

I have been designing my samples ready for Stamp Class next Tuesday and I have the first two ready to show you...........

I decided to go with Very Vanilla bases for this class as I always seem to go for the bright colours! The papers in the Springtime Vintage suite are so pretty and I wanted to show them off to their full potential this time, along with the Four Frames and the lush new Seam Binding Ribbon.

I really do need to go shopping for a new top to wear on Friday night when I will be meeting up with my work colleagues in town for my leaving do..............but I am going to leave it until tomorrow now as I want to finish designing the other samples for class!

I hope to come back tomorrow to show you the other cards in this set...................................bye for now ;-D

Carol xxx

ILWS Mini Catalogue Blog Hop!

2011-04-02T10:00:00.002+01:00

Hello my lovelies ;-D

I think you will have really enjoyed the hop so far! there are some really wonderful projects to fire you up ready for creating some of your own. If all is going to plan you should have arrived here via the lovely Bridgette of Cherry Hill Crafts a truly talented papercrafter indeed!!

Well as you may know I have been under mounds of paper, stamps & ribbon for a while now busy creating items to sell at the Craft Events that I have attended recently, and another one tomorrow!! Very busy, but unable to share any of it with you until now......................

First up, I have some Easter Pillow Boxes for you which I cut using the Big Shot and the pillow box die. I used acetate and the bunny from Forest Friends along with the sentiment from Occasional Greetings

Filled with yummy Mini Eggs mmmm!

Next I have a couple of cards.........the first one is suitable for the man in your life and the second, a much bolder & brighter Birthday card. Both of these are using the fabulous Four Frames and the brilliant Decorative Label Punch........both of these brand new items will become firm favourites of mine over the next few months, so look out for more projects using them!
And last up I have a little business tool for you...............my Book a Date, Pick a Prize Pot!! and yes, if you book a workshop with me you get to keep the Emery Board along with the prize on my list that matches the colour of the butterfly!
The gorgeous butterflies were cut with the Beautiful Butterflies die and the Big Shot and I also embossed them with several of the new embossing folders too.
I hope you have enjoyed my creations today and now I need to send you on your way over to the lovely Laura at Airing Cupboard Stamping

Have fun on the rest of the hop and pop back if you get chance over the next few days to see more goodies from the Mini Catalogue

I have scheduled this as I will be at a Craft Fair until this afternoon, so I hope it works o.k.!! Please play nice Mr Blogger :)

See you soon,
Carol xxx

p.s. If you want to start at the beginning of the Hop then pop over to Erika's fabulous blog

It's Here!!!! Woohooo!!!

2011-04-01T16:16:00.008+01:00

Hi Lovelies ;-D

Today is one of my most favourite days of the year! April 1st is when we release our new Mini catalogue at Stampin'Up! and this year it is bursting at the staples! with gorgeous new products.

Just click on the picture to browse, if you would like a copy posting out to you just let me know :)

You will see when you take a look that it is full of lush new products to make our stamping fun & creative....................especially this baby!.......................

I was able to order my Big Shot on pre-order (another bonus of being a demo!) so I've been using it for the past three weeks making lots of lovely things for my craft fairs......You will see some of the projects tomorrow for my part of the ILWS Mini Catalogue Blog Hop. Be sure to pop back at 10am to see 50+ demo's taking part!!
If you would like to place an order or book a date for a home workshop with me, then please get in touch via e-mail carol@casamiacrafts.co.uk If you'd like I can bring my Big Shot along with me, it's tough but very portable!!

I retired from my job as Branch Administrator today so as from Monday you can have me to Demonstrate during the daytime if an evening party is not suitable for you and your friends :-)

I look forward to hearing from you and don't forget to come back tomorrow morning for the hop!

Carol xxx

Bad Blogger - Busy Stamper!!

2011-03-28T01:08:00.002+01:00

Hi Everyone ;-D
Huge apologies if you have been popping in, only to find that I have not posted any new goodies since the 14th March!! How terrible is that? I have been very busy though...............................
.....................as you may already know I will be retiring from my day job as Branch Administrator for Blackburns Metals Ltd at the end of this week, so I have been trying to 'set the ground' to give my Stampin'Up! business a bit of a 'kick up the bum'!

I attended a 'Ladies Indulgence Evening' last Thursday and a 'Retail Afternoon' on Saturday..........this Saturday coming I am at a Craft Fair and another to prepare for on the 16th, so my head has been well & truly filled with making stuff to sell at these events! and my poor old blog and all my lovely followers have been neglected :(
I had seven commisions for cards, a lead for a Baby Shower, two more for party bookings and several people took leaflets and flyers......so fingers crossed for some more coming through!

To make up for the lack of activity, I hope you will stop by here on Saturday at 10am for the ILWS Mini Blog Hop................ Wow!! 56 Stampin'Up! demos(me included!) showing you wonderful cards & creations made with all the brand new stuff.....it will be very inspiring seeing all the ideas from everyone and will be a 'head start' on ideas for all those products that will be on your wants list :)

I hope I am forgiven for being a Bad Blogger......and of course I will have something new to show you on Friday when the new Mini Catalogue launches.......Wooohooooo!!! :)

See you soon,
Carol xxx

No Sticky Strip required.......

2011-03-14T20:57:00.005Z

...for these latest craft fair makes!! good job really as I am still waiting for my parcel to arrive but hopefully it will be here in a day or two :-)

This is one of two designs of Post it Note holders that I am making at the moment.....this one is very simple and reasonably quick to make! it's just one piece of card measuring 3.1/4" x 7" which is then scored at 3.1/4" & 3.3/4". The DSP is 3" square.
The other design incorporates a pen as well and it's taken me a few days to find pens that are small enough, so I will show you those shortly!
edited to add......I did find some smaller pens, but they are also a lot fatter than I had bargained for and won't fit my template!!.......sorry! i'll have to have a rethink on those ones!! :(

supplies
Baja Breeze, Soft Suede & Very Vanilla cardstock
Elegant Soiree DSP
Soft Suede & Baja Breeze ink & Baja Breeze marker
Growing Green stamp set
1.1/4" & 1.3/8" Circle punches, Scallop Circle punch
Paper Piercing tool

I also wanted to take this chance to say Thank You to all who have purchased my Just Believe Spring stamp class and also to Beverly(aka ruby-heartedmom) over at Splitcoast for choosing this class as one of her favourites for w/e 13th March - you made my day! :)

Back soon........
Carol xxx

Craft Fair projects.....................

2011-03-12T17:00:00.005Z

............have come to a grinding halt! I've run out of Sticky Strip!!! I hope you are having a more productive Saturday afternoon than me ;-D

I thought I had another roll and I've looked in every drawer and I cannot find it anywhere.......3 more rolls on order, so hurry up Mr UPS and bring my box so that I can carry on with these and other similar items.................

I really needed to get cracking on this stuff today......I have Regionals next Saturday in Coventry and I have not even thought about my swaps yet!!! I may well be swapless, so if I am, do forgive me! :)
Enjoy the rest of the weekend and hopefully I'll be back soon......

Carol xxx

Just Believe Spring tutorial .......is now available

2011-03-07T21:19:00.002Z

I have now finished my brand new PDF tutorial for Just believe Spring........

This is the alternate colourway, I originally made the set in these colours............

Are you ready to create your own? My tutorial contains nine pages of full colour photographs and detailed step by step instructions for the three cards and gift wallet shown above made with the Just Believe stamp set. Buy now button in right hand side bar....

Just Believe Spring £3.25

Thanks for popping in today, see you soon,
Carol xxx

A New Tutorial - Just Believe Spring......coming soon!

2011-03-06T09:47:00.006Z

Hi Everyone ;-D

I seem to have been lost under mounds of stamps, paper & card for the last few days! why is March SUCH a busy month??
I do have some photo's of my latest tutorial 'Just Believe Spring' which is almost ready, I just have to finish writing it all up and then I will pop it in the side bar for you.

I wasn't sure about this colour choice as I am not really a Purple person....or Yellow for that matter.....maybe a good combo for Easter projects as well as Spring! Hope you like the sneak peeks! hopefully I should have the PDF ready by tomorrow.

I have some of my lovely family coming round later so I will be buried under a mound of toys today instead!!!
Have a wonderful Sunday and I will be back soon ;-D

Carol xxx

Blog Candy Winner....

2011-03-01T23:59:00.002Z

.............................................is.......................................................

Carole Bryson

Congratulations Carole!!

If you could send me an e-mail with your postal address, I will get your 'Artistic Etchings' set packaged up and out in the post to you ;-D

Thanks to everyone that played along this time and to all the new lovely people that have decided to follow me.....................I do hope you will stay around and I hope that you will be inspired by what I have to share with you.

I hope to have some more candy to offer you soon - Thanks Again ;-D

See you soon,
Carol xxx

March Frenzy is here......

2011-03-01T00:47:00.007Z

Hello Everyone ;-D

The latest offer from Stampin'Up! is called MARCH FRENZY and you can get the following items at a reduced price throughout March...........or whilst stocks last!

Item	Page	Description	Discount	Retail Price	Sale Price
109679	40	Fast Flowers Stampin’ Around Wheel	20 %	£6.50	£5.20
109685	48	Neighborhood Stampin’ Around Jumbo Wheel	30%	£8.50	£5.95
110528	61	Friendly Set	30%	£16.95	£11.87
107559	69	Spot On Stampin’ Around Jumbo Wheel	20%	£8.50	£6.80
109675	70	Baroque Border Stampin’ Around Wheel	30%	£6.50	£4.55
110524	75	Cheer & Wishes Set	30%	£16.95	£11.87
121717	87	A4 Shimmery White Card Stock	30%	£7.50	£5.25
106555	87	A4 Glossy White Card Stock	20%	£6.25	£5.00
117167	89	Greenhouse Gala Designer Series Paper	20%	£8.75	£7.00
113659	93	Hidden Garden Blossoms Rub-Ons	30%	£8.50	£5.95
111325	99	Styled Silver Hodgepodge Hardware	20%	£25.95	£20.76
120963	102	Stampin’ Pastels New Color Kit	30%	£11.25	£7.88
102845	102	Blender Pens	20%	£7.95	£6.36

If you fancy bagging yourself a bargain from the items above just call or e-mail me to place your order.
I do have a couple of dates free in March so if you would like to host a 'March Frenzy' workshop in your home then please do not delay in securing your booking with me. I have Stamp Class tomorrow evening so maybe you would like to get your date booked before they nab the last ones available!!

Hope to see you Wednesday and if you need me in the meantime, all my contact details are on the tab at the top

Carol xxx

First Project - New Stamp Class

2011-02-27T23:08:00.006Z

Hello ;-D

After a lovely(but tiring!) day spent with my Granddaughters, I thought I would pop on and show you the first project from my upcoming Stamp Class - 'Just Believe Spring'

I have designed this Gift Voucher Wallet which will contain a Crescent Stampin' Gift Voucher to be added to a Raffle Prize for an event I am attending later this month! There will be a bundle of stampin' goodies to go along with this wallet.

I just adore this satin ribbon! It is so easy to work with and ties a beautiful bow. The one I've used today is of course the gorgeous Daffodil Delight - a perfect colour for spring!
I've teamed it up with some Pear Pizzazz DSP and some lovely rich Elegant Eggplant cardstock and one of the images from 'Just Believe'...............this set is fast becoming a favourite so I do hope it sticks around for a while!

I will be back to show you the voucher once it's finished as well as the rest of this Stamp Class which will be available to purchase as a PDF download. I will let you know when it's ready ;-)

Thanks for your visit today, have a 'Happy Monday' and I hope to see you very soon. x

Carol xxx

p.s. Any last minute orders £45+ to secure your free SAB set of your choice! Call me on 07834 282749 ~ Thank YOU x

Thank You 'Crafty Chicks'.......

2011-02-26T17:53:00.006Z

A HUGE Thank You to the lovely Daphne and the rest of the 'Crafty Chicks'......Kate, Helen, Charlotte, Rebecca, Dawn, Linda, Carol, Caroline(who popped in to say Hello before she went to work!)

I hope it comes across just how much I love Stampin'Up! and how much I love showing all the wonderful products to you but I'm sure you will agree................I need more practice!!! So, If any of you lovely ladies have decided that 'actually I would like my own workshop' then of course get in touch and we can arrange a date.

The order went in this morning so you should see your goodies hopefully by the end of next week, If you have any questions in the meantime or if you need me for anything, just give me a ring!
You may have also noticed that I had my camera with me..........................this was the only picture I took!! I got so engrossed with showing you all the stuff I completely forgot to take any more!!!! I must try and remember when I see you all next time ;-D

Take Care All.........
Carol xxx
p.s. For Dawn who left early feeling unwell.......I hope you are feeling much better today! :)

Thank You Kim

2011-02-25T01:24:00.006Z

Hello Everyone ;-D
I just had to pop on and say a HUGE thanks once again to the lovely Kim over at Paper Punch Addiction

She was kind enough the other day to feature my flowers punched with the Fancy Flower punch and I now see that she has featured my Mini 'Box in a Bag' I'm so chuffed ;-D

Doing the happy dance!
Thank You SO much!! x x and........................thanks to all my new visitors and followers too!

Carol xxx
p.s. I really should be in bed!!!! I have a workshop for 16 tomorrow night......eeek!

Bright or Subtle?

2011-02-21T23:47:00.005Z

Hello Lovelies ;-D
The weather has been awful here today!! I hope it's better where you are!

After my recent session with the Fancy Flower punch I had some lovely flowers that needed a good home! and once you get going with these flowers they do become quite addictive. So......... I made a few more and then I made the cards to put them on! ...............sort of the wrong way round, to make the embellishments first but that's what I love about paper & stamps......there really aren't any rules :)

At the moment I can't decide whether I prefer the bright colour palette or the more subtle one...........................which do you prefer?

Rich Razzleberry, Old Olive & Pumpkin Pie

or...........................
Crumb Cake & Pretty in Pink

Did you notice that I have a fourth different flower design too! How does the saying go...................................... 'leave her alone and she'll play for hours' Well that just about sums me up! especially when stamps are involved.....I wonder if I can come up with any more different flowers over the next few days?

Don't forget to enter my candy draw!!
See you soon,
Carol xxx

Mini Box in a Bag........my version with FREE tutorial

2011-02-20T07:30:00.029Z

Hello Everyone ;-D
I have been looking around trying to find a suitable container that would work for Danielle's Easter basket!
I love the 'Box in a Bag' tutorial but I wanted to make it a little smaller, so I have adapted the version on Splitcoast Stampers and have come up with this one for you of how I did it!

Here goes.......there are lots of pictures so bear with me :-)

Mini Box in a Bag
Carol Houghton Feb 2011

You will start with one piece of cardstock 4.1/2" x 3.1/4" Score on each side at 1/2" cut corners and add sticky strip as shown.

Form into a normal box base
Take one piece of DSP (patterned paper) measuring 3.1/2" x 12" and add sticky strip to one side and the base as shownStart assembling by adding your DSP to the box base as shown in the photo's below

Cut two pieces of DSP 1" x 12" and punch one edge of each with the Eyelet Border Punch - add some ink to the punched edges with a sponge dauber

Flip both of these pieces over and add sticky strip to the entire lengthThese will then be added to the base and top edge of your bag as shown below

Using the Round Tab punch, cut two from cardstock. Cut both of these in half and using the dauber as before add ink to all edges. Also cut two pieces of ribbon 7.1/2" long for the handles.

Add your handles to the base of the bag and decorate as desired!

Mr Blogger has been playing up whilst I've been trying to load this post, so I hope it reaches you as it should do!!
I hope you enjoy this tutorial and that you will make a Mini Box in a Bag of your own! I think it has lots of possibilities for gift giving and is just perfect for Danielle's Easter Eggs!

See you soon............Have a lovely Sunday & don't forget to enter my blog candy draw......details in right side bar ;-D
Carol xxx

Fancy Flower Punch

2011-02-17T16:06:00.010Z

Hello Everyone!

I thought I would just pop on and let you know that the Fancy Flower Punch (pg.104 item 1) is now back in stock. I have had a little play around this afternoon and I've come up with these....................................

As you can see with a bit of scissor action or some distressing, you can make the punched flower look very different! We are constantly looking for ways to make our products and tools work harder for us and we always need pretty flowers too!!

coming to a card near you very soon!

Edited to add.......I wondered why my sitemeter counter had gone beserk today!! 341 visits and counting!! It is down to the fact that these punched flowers have been featured on the Paper Punch Addiction website today. Thank You so much for the link ........I hope all my new visitors are enjoying my little old blog ;-D

If you would like to add this punch to your next order or if you have any questions, just drop me an e-mail carol@casamiacrafts.co.uk

See you soon,
Carol xxx

Stamp Class

2011-02-15T17:13:00.002Z

I am off to see all my lovely ladies at Stamp Class this evening. I'm really looking forward to it tonight, we always have a laugh and they always make some lovely cards.

Would you like to join us at our Tuesday classes? I have some spaces available and everyone is welcome whether you are just a beginner or more experienced there is something for all abilities!

In a few weeks I am hoping to start a Scrapbook only class during the day, so if that appeals to you more than making cards or 3D items then watch this space for more news ;-D

In the meantime, if you would like to book a workshop with me then I have a couple of dates free in March or going forward from there into April, May etc. Just invite a few friends round and I will do the rest!

If you have not entered my blog candy yet why not have a go! you might be lucky.......just click on the picture in the side bar and you will be taken to the post containing the candy where you can leave your name with the blue frog!!

See you soon,
Carol xxx

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T08:13:00.000Z

Happy Valentine's Day

Hello lovelies! .......... I hope you have all received some lovely cards & pressies this morning!

My hubby and I will have been married for 30 years come September 5th but we still like to celebrate Valentines Day in our own small way.........this year I made a card as usual and also some treats! Being a vegetarian my husband cannot eat certain sweets as they contain gelatine! So the treat I made (30th January) has had to be replaced with something that he can actually enjoy ;-D

Now......how do you go from this....................

to this.......................................................??

Easy! with some lovely Stampin'Up! goodies of course!!

I have at least one of these juice drinks every day, they also come in Mango and each little pot contains the contents of four Strawberries or one whole Mango and they are DELICIOUS!

I knew the pots may come in handy for something or other so I have been washing them out and saving them up..................waiting for a creative moment to hit me :)
supplies
stamps - Tiny Tags
ink - Basic Grey
punches - Heart to Heart, Full Heart Extra Large
DSP - Newsprint
card - Basic Black, Real Red, Very Vanilla
1/8" Taffeta Ribbon Real Red
Basic Pearls & Linen Thread
Non SU - chocolate hearts!

I hope you are enjoying a lovely Valentine treat today!
See you soon,
Carol xxx

Clean & Simple - Splitcoast Stampers

2011-02-13T10:53:00.006Z

Hello ;-D
I'm back today with a little card I made for the Clean & Simple challenge over at Splitcoast Stampers - CAS 105.

The challenge was to make a CAS card with the colours Daffodil Delight, Peach Parfait & Poppy Parade................I think I may be starting to get the hang of the CAS cards!! and have you noticed?......................I have covered that annoying number 5 on each butterfly with one of our pearls......looks o.k. doesn't it? can't imagine why it's there really but it's easy enough to cover without being a distraction!

supplies
Stamps - Bliss, Thank You Kindly
Whisper White Note Card - page 87
Daffodil Delight, Peach Parfait & Poppy Parade marker pens
Whisper White card
1.3/4" Circle Punch
Basic Pearls
Bone Folder for the scored lines

I hope you will pop back tomorrow as I have something to share that I am really chuffed with :) In the meantime, don't forget to enter my blog candy giveaway! Details in side bar....just click on picture to be taken to the post complete with linky tool.

See you tomorrow,
Carol xxx

I have Candy ..................... and a card for you

2011-02-10T17:08:00.007Z

Hi Everyone,
If you visited me yesterday I bet you are wondering 'where is the Candy she promised?' well, it's here.................... but first I want to show you the little card I made to whet your appetite!

I have to confess! I haven't really used this set very much as yet and due to an ordering error! I have two............one in clear mount and a brand new unmounted in wood......... I could have sent it back but decided to hang onto it as I knew it would come in handy for a raffle prize or a candy giveaway ;-D

This card also fits in with a couple of challenges that are current at the moment....... Cupcake would like to see something Red and Papertake Weekly is 'Have a Heart'

The Candy is open to anyone.........so if you would like to have this fabulous set then please do enter!

There are no 'rules' as such but........................

You must add your name to the linky tool below
If you are a follower then please put an 'F' with your link - this is important as followers will get two entries!

If you are or have been a SU customer of mine( don't worry, I know who you are :) you will also get two entries! but you must still add your name to the link.

All in all, if you are a follower and a past or present customer you will have four entries in total.

The candy is open until the end of February so you will have chance to have your name in four times by following and also placing an order before the finish date.

Don't forget to add your name to the list and......Good Luck!

Hope to see you with another challenge card tomorrow ;-D

Carol xxx
Edited to add.....I love to have your comments but to be eligible for the prize you need to leave your details on the linky tool above - Thank You ;-D

New Challenges.......

2011-02-09T11:03:00.008Z

Hello Lovelies ;-D

I found a couple more new(to me!) challenges recently and I have made a little card that fits in with both...............I've used the colours from CR84FN and the requirement of buttons at Tuesday Throwdown!

I thought I would show you the inside shot first!
This is quite a minimalist card for me, but I rather like it! I'm not so good at this style of card so I am trying to challenge myself to do more of them!

Don't forget if you want to get yourself a FREE Sale-a-Bration set this year you need to be fairly quick as you only have until the end of February!! Just place an order with me for £45 and you can choose a set from the leaflet (details in side bar!) I have used Bliss and Punch Bunch on my card today........I LOVE the Bliss set and I will be sorry to see it go :(

supplies
card - Pink Pirouette, Chocolate Chip, Melon Mambo
inks - Chocolate Chip, Melon Mambo
stamps - Bliss, Punch Bunch
punches - Eyelet Border, Scallop Trim Border, 1" Circle
extras - 5/8" Early Espresso ribbon, Linen Thread, Subtles buttons

Thanks for popping in today, I'm going to try and make another card this afternoon to schedule for tomorrow as I am going back to work. I've been off for two weeks so it will be harder than ever to go back! :(
Make sure you pop in again tomorrow as I will have some Candy to share ;-D

Carol xxx

The Stash Raider!!!!!

2011-02-08T11:49:00.005Z

Hi Everyone ;-D
I am happy to report this morning that my back problem seems well & truly on the mend, although I am sporting a lovely bruise on my arm from yet another blood test yesterday afternoon.........hopefully when I visit the Doc's again on Friday they may have SOME idea why I'm getting all these problems! Maybe.............................................I've been secretly abducted by Aliens(Ha!) and they've been experimenting on me!!!

It was lovely to have the company of my eldest daughter Chloe at the weekend and as usual she came with a request for some help with her 'crafty' projects! The first thing she wanted to make was a Valentine card for her partner Alan but she had no clue as to what she wanted the finished card to look like! so I loaded Splitcoast Stampers and she looked for a card that she could adapt a bit to her style(?) And she found this one that she liked the look of..............

With a bit of adaptation this is what Chloe came up with......................

She chose to use some papers from my 'retired goody box' but the rest of the products used on the card are all current stock items. She was very impressed with the 'rock & roll' technique that I showed her and decided she wanted a 'normal tie' rather than a 'bow tie' but, as a relative 'newbie' crafter'.................................................I think she's done a really good job! ( I just have to convince her now to sign up! wink!!)

supplies
card - Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla
inks - Marina Mist, More Mustard, Chocolate Chip
stamps - I {Heart} Hearts, Basic Phrases
ribbon - Marina Mist 5/8" Satin, Early Espresso 1/8" Taffeta
punches - Word Window Large
accessories - Basic Pearls, More Mustard button & brads(Regals), Linen Thread, Hodgepodge Hardware Oval Frame
DSP - retired

I would like to make a card or two for some challenges this afternoon so hopefully I will show you those tomorrow ....... Thanks for popping in ;-D

Carol xxx

10 Minute card.....................with Greenhouse Gala

2011-02-02T16:25:00.004Z

Hello :)
I'm here again today with a very quick card for Clean & Simple Sunday........I do enjoy making stuff for challenges, so I have been actively searching for some that I can play along with.........and stumbled across this one...............

I have used a technique known as Black Magic for the image.............check out the web for a tutorial (there are several!) It looks good on any dark card but Black is definitely best! I've chosen to use Early Espresso today as it goes with the DSP from the Greenhouse Gala pack.

My Stampin' Up! Watercolour Pencils were used to colour the image, they're lovely to work with and very good value at only £19.25 for the set of 24!! You can use them with Blender Pens, an Aqua Painter or a regular watercolour brush too...............think I may use them more often from now on!

My back is feeling a little better today so hopefully it will improve even more as the days go by! I can't bear it when body parts won't work properly!!!! makes me feel old ;-D

Thanks for popping in, I'll see you soon.........
Carol xxx

Clean & Simple ~ FTL 125

2011-01-31T18:13:00.006Z

Hi Everyone!
A really quick post today to show you my card made for the sketch challenge over at Clean & Simple........................ FTL 125

Instead of colouring the whole image, I used the thin end of my marker pens and gently 'stroked' lots of lines to colour all the different flowers and leaves.......I quite like the effect it gives!

supplies
stamps - Bella Toile, SAB So Happy For You
markers - Old Olive, Baja Breeze, Rich Razzleberry, Pumpkin Pie, Pink Pirouette & Crumb Cake.
card - Baja Breeze, Pumpkin Pie, Rich Razzleberry, Old Olive, Sahara Sand & Whisper White
ink - Basic Black

see you soon,
Carol xxx

Pucker Up!!

2011-01-30T13:03:00.006Z

Yes Lovelies, it's nearly that time of year again!! As Valentine's Day is fast approaching I thought it was about time I made a card for my Husband.............although we will be celebrating our 30th Wedding Anniversary later this year, I still enjoy making him something nice for the day and here is what I have concocted for this year........ ;-D

A little heart treat cup containing some sweeties which, ..........................he won't be eating because I daresay they contain gelatine! They were the only ones I had in the house and I really wanted to see how it looked, so I made it up anyway! I have sourced some sweeties online that are gelatine free so when they arrive I will make a replacement.

And the card........................

I am also entering these into the SUO Challenge 11 which is Valentine's Day Creations!

We are just about to have our dinner so I will be back later with the supplies list!

supplies
card - Rose Red, Real Red, Pretty in Pink, Basic Black & Whisper White
DSP - Rose Red from the 12 x 12 Subtles stack
inks - Basic Black
stamps - I Heart Hearts, Basic Phrases, Tiny Tags
punches - Full Heart Ex-Large, Word Window, Heart Small, Jewellery Tag Medium, Heart to Heart
ribbon - Real Red 1/8" taffeta, Pretty in Pink 3/8" taffeta, Basic Black 1.1/4" striped grosgrain
Basic Rhinestones

Dinner was lovely by the way! Stew & Dumplings......yummy :-)

See you soon,
Carol xxx

The best laid plans...............

2011-01-28T18:46:00.007Z

I'm sure you can all relate to my post today! Just sometimes the 'best laid plans' can all go pear shaped, and........................for the most unusual reasons!!

On Wednesday evening my hubby made us both a lovely salad which was delicious! After we had finished I cleared away the plates and went to pop them in the dishwasher. I bent down to pull out the basket at the bottom..................................and then I couldn't get up again!!! The pain was excruciating and I really don't know how I made it back to the lounge. I took some strong pain killers and hoped they would do the trick. I could not have made it to the car let alone have sat in it for the journey to the A&E and my hubby was so worried he called the ambulance!! It turns out that I have damaged(twisted) my sciatic nerve and am now on 600mg Co-Codamol with 400mg Ibuprofen.............................not only does that take away the pain it also makes me feel a bit tipsy too ;-D

To cut a long story short the events of Wednesday meant that I had to cancel my mini class on Thursday evening................sorry again ladies but you will have chance to do the M&T's at some point! and here they are.................................
This little 4 x 4 was inspired by the lovely Joanne.........I love her style, make sure you have a good browse through her blog while you are there!

And the following card was inspired by lovely Monica...................mad as a box of frogs but I love her to pieces!!!
I adjusted the sizes for my Twisted Easel card so that it would fit into some old 5 x 7 envelopes that I had left in my stash, and I've used the lovely 'Bliss' set to decorate it.

Last Saturday I went to the home of a lovely lady to introduce her to the fabulous hobby that we all love. She found me via the demo website and has never tried papercrafting before so wanted 1 to 1 tuition. These are the projects that I took for her to have a try at.....................

Unfortunately we ran out of time for the little scrapbook page but we will concentrate on that next session! we will start with the page and see if we have time left for any cards. If you would like to start papercrafting but are daunted by being part of a group then why not get in touch and arrange your own 1 to 1 lesson! It's good fun ;-D

I hope to feel up to crafting tomorrow............................I have 50 swaps to make for training next Sunday!!!

See you soon..........
Carol xxx

Fuzzy.......but all there!!

2011-01-17T17:30:00.005Z

Sounds like I might be describing myself in the title!! but I am actually referring to the photo's ;-)
I have a good camera but it has been very dismal again today, couple that with the fact that I didn't get home until about 3.20 and by that time the lighting was awful!!

These are two more cards to go with the one I made the other day and will be housed in a matching box.
Choc Chip, Old Olive & Rose Red along with the fabby 'Sweet Summer' stamp set from the Sale-a-Bration promotion, which you could have FREE with a spend of £45 from the main catalogue!............let me know if you would like to place an order and achieve your free set.

I still have not finished the box!! I must do it this evening as I will want to show the ladies at Stamp Class tomorrow evening....................there WILL be a pdf tutorial to purchase for this set.......just a few more days.........hopefully! I will let you know when it's ready and pop it in the side bar ;-)

See you soon, take care.....
Carol xxx

One card, three challenges!

2011-01-15T12:20:00.003Z

Hello Lovelies,
I took a few minutes this morning to create this little card for some challenges I found over the last few days......... Just Add Ink, Clean & Simple and Stampin' Up! Only!

I always loved doing the challenges around the web and loved visiting you all when I was part of several design teams before joining SU as a Demo. Just Add Ink is 'Monochromatic'..... Clean & Simple is a 'Sketch'........... and SUO is 'Welcome Baby'...........

supplies
Stamps - SAB Punch Bunch
card - Melon Mambo, Pretty in Pink
DSP - Pretty in Pink (from the Subtles stack)
Ink - Melon Mambo, ( ink pad & marker)
Pretty in Pink taffeta ribbon
Punches - Small Tag, Fancy Flower, Corner Small

I'm off now to finish designing the stuff for my Tuesday Stamp Class want to come?? and also to start getting together the bits & bobs needed for my first 'One to One' tuition next Saturday! very exciting ;-D.

In the meantime if you are hoping to see the 'rosebuds' and 'spiky leaves' that I promised............I haven't forgotten! just not had time yet..............you know how it goes!!!!
I have since found that the lovely Linda has a tutorial for the roses on her blog.......she is much more particular and tidy! than I was with mine, but they were made in a very similar fashion so it might be an idea to pop over and have a look at those!
I haven't forgotten about the tutorial for the box either.........again, just a time issue!!

Have a lovely weekend and I hope to see you very soon ;-D
Carol xxx

Card 1 - Box Bundle

2011-01-12T08:10:00.003Z

Hi Everyone, I really should be getting ready for work but I thought I would pop on and quickly show you the first card for my Box Bundle................

Using the gorgeous Sweet Summer set from the Sale-a-Bration leaflet and colours of Rose Red, Chocolate Chip and Old Olive.

Enjoy your day and I'll see you soon ;-D

Carol xxx

The prototype.....A Bounce and then lunch!

2011-01-11T18:38:00.005Z

Hello Everybody ;-D
Been a bit out of sorts again the past couple of days! IBS this time!!! so I have not been very crafty!

But I'm back today with a prototype of a box that will be part of my new tutorial.............

Rather un-pretty at the moment, but this is just my 'mock up' the real one will be much prettier I can assure you! I've designed this box to house some A6 cards and envelopes and they will be part of the tutorial too! At the moment I'm not sure how long it will take to make the whole ensemble, but I hope to be back with it by the end of the week!! So watch this space :)

While I'm here I couldn't resist showing you a couple of pictures of my gorgeous Granddaughter Louise............. It doesn't seem five minutes since Danielle was bouncing with Tigger! and now Lou is enjoying it.......................

and of course after all that excercise it's time for some lunch..........................

She absolutely loves her food! A whole pot of Hipp Organic Cottage Pie and two Little Stars Fromage Frais, equals................... one very happy baby! She ate almost as much for her tea too.....I do love to see children eating well ;-)

Well, that's about it for now! I hope you will pop back to see the tutorial when it's done and in the meantime you may want to have a go at my Sketch Challenge....................see you soon......

Take Care,
Carol xxx

The Snooze worked.......!!

2011-01-05T22:41:00.004Z

Hi Folks,
I'm not feeling so good at the moment. I have a rotten cold and find it very hard to sleep at night because I can't breathe properly, so earlier on I had a little snooze on the sofa and.................it worked wonders! So..............I made a card ;-D

This is the same layout as I used on these two cards and the reason for this is that this will be my new sketch for my latest challenge which goes live at 5 o'clock tomorrow.

Did you know I have my own sketch challenge blog called Carol's Sketch Fun? Why not pop over and have a look..........Tomorrow at 5 is when the new sketch goes up and each fortnight I randomly pick a winner for a little prize! You can use whatever materials you wish, it doesn't have to be Stampin'Up! images but of course if you have some of our lovely stamps then you are more than welcome to use them for the challenge ;-D Hope to see you there!

supplies
card - Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive, Whisper White
DSP - Rich Razzleberry
stamps - Bliss SAB set, Tiny Tags
inks & markers - Rich Razz, Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie
punches - 1" Circle, 1.1/4" Circle, Jewellery Tag
extras - 5/8" Organza ribbon, Basic Rhinestones

Thanks for your visit today, I hope you will pop over to my sketch blog tomorrow at 5 and join in this fortnight.....
Take Care & see you tomorrow....

Carol xxx

White is White.........

2011-01-04T08:11:00.003Z

Morning all ;-D

I didn't get chance to pop back with my challenge card yesterday, I thought I should get some housework done instead!! Over at Cupcake Craft Challenges they have a 'White is White' challenge running at the moment which involves your project being predominantly white..........

I've stuck to a very clean & simple design for this little 4 x 4...........but what about the gorgeous yellow in the form of Daffodil Delight!! I have managed to keep predominantly white, but just thought I would add a splash of colour and the yellow is right out of my comfort zone..............although.....................I have seen some beautiful uses of this colour around the websites when I've been hopping!

supplies
card - Whisper White
ink & ribbon - Daffodil Delight
stamps - Punch Bunch SAB
punches - Scallop Circle, 1.3/4" Circle, Scallop Trim Border
Basic Pearls

Whilst I am here I would also like to show you a card made with another stamp from the aforementioned set - 'Punch Bunch' which also includes a set from the main catalogue 'On a Pedestal' that hasn't seen ink for a while! I used the fabby Colour Coach again for the colour combo..........I'm loving the fact that choosing is so simple...........I would sometimes spend ages deciding on which colours to use and now I don't have to!

supplies
card - Melon Mambo, Basic Grey
DSP - Old Olive
stamps - Punch Bunch SAB, On a Pedestal
punches - Scallop Square, Scallop Trim Corner & Border
extras - 5/8" Organza Ribbon, Basic Pearls

I'm back at work today so no card making (or housework!!) thanks for popping in and I hope I am helping you with your decisions of which sets you would like to get FREE when placing your orders.If you are anything like me you will just want all four!! ;-D Please get in touch if you would like to place an order, book a workshop or join my team!

See you tomorrow,
Carol xxx

Happy Monday.......

2011-01-03T12:57:00.005Z

to you all :)

I'm not usually this cheerful on a Monday but of course today is a Bank Holiday so that means not having to go into the office!!! Back to work tomorrow after being off since Christmas Eve is going to be so harsh - aarrh! I LOVE being at home making pretty things with my Stampin' Up! stash ;-D

Onto today's card which is a colour choice of my own.............I love Pink, Black & White together.........................
I've used Punch Bunch & Bliss today.....either of these stamp sets are FREE to you via myself and the fabulous Sale-a-Bration promotion which is running at the moment - with an order from the main catalogue of £45.........are you tempted yet??

I used the Stamp-a-ma-Jig, Basic Black ink and the beautiful flourish from the Bliss set to create my background on Whisper White card. I then added some Melon Mambo ink with the Spritzing Tool and marker. The sentiment topper was stamped with Melon Mambo and the Happy Birthday from Punch Bunch, punched out with the Scallop Square and mounted onto a black mat made with the Scallop Trim Corner Punch.........and the flowers......................

yep!...........these were made with punches too! Scallop Circle for the rose buds and 2step Bird for the spiky leaves.....let me know if you would like instuctions for these and I'll pop them on here another day....they're really simple but sometimes it's good to see step by step. I will be showing my ladies these at my next Stamp Class on the 18th.

I used to join in with lots of challenges prior to joining Stampin'Up! and I found one this morning that I think I will have a try at! and if all goes well I will pop back later and show you. In the meantime enjoy the rest of the Bank Holiday.......

Carol xxx

A quirky little box and a tutorial too!

2011-01-02T05:40:00.005Z

Hello :)
If you visited yesterday you may have noticed that I mentioned my quirky little box made from the scraps of the previous days creations..... I'm back today to show it to you and to share how I made it................

At 1" square and only 4" tall you may need to find something rather dinky to fit inside!! A rolled up Gift voucher tied with a small piece of ribbon? or maybe a couple of folded lengths of ribbon and a few buttons or brads for a crafting friend? You could of course adjust the height and then it could contain some Emery boards and maybe a Hoof stick.........I'm sure your imagination exceeds mine! if you do make one I would love to know what you are going to put in yours!!

I've just had another thought! .........................yes, my brain does work sometimes ;-) You could make it with Christmas colours/ papers, stick the lid down and just have them as tree decorations............long time till Christmas this year!!! but maybe keep it on the ' to do' list for October! Oh! and what about Wedding favours?? Anyway enough of my incessant babbling..........onto the instructions...............

Box Body
1 pc. card 4.1/4" x 4"
score the 4.1/4" edge at 1" 2" 3" and 4" - add strong glue(Tombow is perfect) to the 1/4" section and glue together.

Lid & Base
Punch two pieces using the Petal Card Punch & make a 1/8" hole in the centre of one piece. Thread narrow ribbon through the hole and attach a Filigree brad as shown. Glue base to box body.

Decorate
1 pc of DSP 4.1/4" x 2" - score as above and glue to centre of box with join at the back. Stamp True Friend and punch out with 1" Circle - layer with dimensionals onto a punched 1.1/4" Circle.
Tie a length of narrow ribbon around lid to keep closed.

I hope you have enjoyed my little tutorial today :) I would be grateful for a link back if you decide to have a go!

Thanks for popping in, see you soon............
Carol xxx

A New 4 x 4................

2011-01-01T11:47:00.004Z

.........................card!! :)

Did you think I had won the lottery and was referring to a vehicle? If i had won the lottery that would certainly NOT be my first purchase! However, I do have a 4 x 4 card to show you made with the fantastic Punch Bunch set from the current SAB promotion(see banner at top of blog)

A much brighter card to say Hello to 2011.......I hope you had a thoroughly lavish evening if you were partying, we spent ours rather quietly with a couple of cans of lager!!! and some hot 'nibbles'! hey! we KNOW how to live it up!! Anyway........enough rambling.....onto the card...............

I went to my trusty Colour Coach again for this colour combo, it really is a must have tool......so useful in providing colour combos that maybe I would not choose on my own! So, we have Pear Pizzazz, Rich Razzleberry and Tempting Turquoise with a touch of Whisper White for good measure. A few embellishments and 'jobs a good un' ;-D

In fact I liked these colours so much, I made another.................same but different! If you know what I mean!!!
I also made a quirky little box with the leftover scraps which I am saving to show you tomorrow........and that gives me time to write up a FREE tutorial for it as well, so make sure you pop back tomorrow for a 'nosey'!

supplies
card - Rich Razz, Tempting Turquoise, Whisper White
DSP - Pear Pizzazz, Rich Razz, Tempting Turquoise (from the colour stacks)
inks - Tempting Turquoise, Rich Razz
markers - Pear Pizzazz, Rich Razz
punches - Scalloped Circle, 1" Circle, 1.1/4" Circle, 1.3/4" Circle
extras - Pear Pizzazz 1/2" stitched poly ribbon, Rich Razz 5/8" Satin, Brights buttons, Brights Flower Brads, Basic Pearls, White Signo Gel Pen, Blender Pen

Thanks so much for your visit today, I hope you enjoy the rest of this New Year's Day and that you are not sporting a sore head!!! See you tomorrow ;-D

Carol xxx

First Sale-a-Bration sample

2010-12-31T16:00:00.004Z

Hello Lovelies ;-)

Back today with my first sample using sets from the SAB promotion that started yesterday! I hope my son doesn't read my blog as this is his Birthday card for Monday!.........I'm sure he doesn't so I should be safe and anyway I guess he will be sorting out the girls ready for the evening so that him & Justine can get off to their New Year's Eve party!

It's hard to believe that he will be twenty seven on Monday, my gosh how the years seem to fly by and each time I look in the mirror I see another wrinkle!!!! Here's the card...................artistically 'plonked' in the middle of the Christmas tree.........

I used my trusty Colour Coach to pick the colours for this one today..........Cajun Craze, Baha Breeze and Old Olive, quite a masculine combination so perfect for the job! the image is paper pieced and placed onto a base of Very Vanilla.

supplies
card - Cajun Craze, Baha Breeze, Old Olive, Very Vanilla
inks - Cajun Craze, Baha Breeze
stamps - Punch Bunch, So Happy for You
punches - 2 step Bird, 1/8" Handheld Circle
extras - Old Olive wide striped grosgrain, Baha Breeze Marker

Before I sign off for today........................

Have fun & Keep Safe! see you next year ;-D

Carol xxx

Today is the first day of.................

2010-12-30T14:01:00.010Z

Sale-a-Bration 2011!

One of the most exciting times of the year for all that love Stampin'Up! products........from today until 28th February 2011 you can have an exclusive FREE stamp set with every £45 spent!! how brilliant is that?
Here's how it all works................

CUSTOMER - For each £45 spent on products, you can choose one of the limited edition sets absolutely FREE

HOSTESS - Have me along to help you host your Stampin'Up! party and with nett sales of £300 plus you can choose a set FREE............this is in addition to all the normal hostess benefits!!

JOIN - New recruits can choose any stamp set from the current catalogue (value up to £44.95) when they become a demonstrator during Sale-a-Bration. Join my team Crescent Crystals before the end of February 2011 and choose another stamp set from the catalogue............so not only will you have your fabulous starter kit but two extra FREE sets!! Contact me for a hassle free chat if you would like to know more........I tempt but I don't push!!! ;-D

And here they are......................

Sweet Summer
Bliss

So Happy For YouPunch Bunch

Punch Bunch is very aptly named as it has a punch to co-ordinate with each image..........and for the very astute amongst you..............the owl punch will reach us in April with the start of the new mini catalogue, so not too long to wait for him! ;-)

I am afraid I don't have any samples to show you just yet........I seem to have picked up a tummy bug so feeling rather sorry for myself at the moment :( It's taken me an age just to write this post!!!! Please contact me if you would like to place an order or have a chat about joining me, Lindsey and Jayne and our steadily growing team of Crescent Crystals! I would love to have you on board ;-D

till next time - Keep Safe!
Carol xxx

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T12:44:00.002Z

...........to everyone that pops in to see me! I hope you all have a wonderful time whatever you may be doing this year and I hope to see you all in 2011.......Enjoy!! ;-D

See you soon,
Carol xxx

Tags 5,6 &7.................12 Tags of Christmas

2010-12-12T16:36:00.005Z

Happy Sunday to you all!

I thought I should come on and post these Tags for you before getting my ringside seat for the X Factor final................Matt or Rebecca to win......I love them both so don't have a preference between the two, although I do think whoever wins the others will probably get a recording contract anyway, so no one really loses...........it's all good :-)

Tag 5
Tag 6
Tag 7

I have had some time to browse blogland a bit, so happened to find the ideas for Tags 6 & 7 from Linda & Michelle................... I had the privilege of meeting Michelle at High Wycombe & again at Convention.............she is such a lovely lady and she makes us all laugh with her funny stories and natural wit!!

supplies Tag 5
card - Very Vanilla, Riding Hood Red
stamps - Dasher
inks - Chocolate Chip, Riding Hood Red
marker - Riding Hood Red, Basic Black
Punches - 1/2" Circle, 1.3/8" Circle, Scallop Circle, 1.3/4" Circle, Corner Rounder
Gold elastic cord, Riding Hood Red wide striped grosgrain
Cosmo glitter
Candy Cane from Tesco!

supplies Tag 6
card - Chocolate Chip, Riding Hood Red
stamps - Contempo Christmas
DSP - Jolly Holiday
punches - Fancy Flower, Crop-a-Dile
ribbons - Riding Hood Red wide striped grosgrain, 1/8" Taffeta Old Olive
brads in Black & Real Red, Signo Gel pen

supplies Tag 7
card - Very Vanilla, Old Olive, Real Red
inks - Old Olive, Chocolate Chip
stamps - Contempo Christmas
DSP - Jolly Holiday
punches - 1/2" Circle, Extra Large Oval, Crop-a-Dile, Corner Rounder
Old Olive wide striped grosgrain
Crystal Effects & Cosmo glitter

Thanks for your visit today, see you soon ;-D
Carol xxx
p.s. I am placing a small order tomorrow, so if you would like to add anything for yourself just let me know via e-mail

12 Tags of Christmas - Tag # 4

2010-12-09T16:02:00.005Z

Gosh I was so tired yesterday I just could not summon up the energy to type this post!!So here I am today with Tag #4 in my series of 12.............

I've used more of the images that I stamped out using my 'baby wipe' inkpad. I also pressed a piece of Whisper White card onto the makeshift inkpad, just big enough to punch out the round tab for the top!

supplies
card - Crumb Cake, Whisper White
inks - More Mustard, Riding Hood Red, Whisper White Craft
stamps - Delightful Decorations, Season of Joy
Silver Elastic Cord
Spritzing Tool with Riding Hood Red Marker
Round Tab Punch, Ornament punch.

I hope you are enjoying my Tags so far! Think I need to get a move on as I need to have all 12 finished by Tuesday for my Stamp Class........the last one for this year!
In the meantime, if it is sketches you prefer then you could check out my very own sketch challenge site Carol's Sketch Fun There will be a new sketch at 5pm today! I have scheduled it to post as I am off to the Hairdresser in a few minutes...............I hope it works!!!!!

See you soon,
Carol xxx

Tag 3 and a card to match................

2010-12-07T17:47:00.006Z

Hi Everyone!
Back today with Tag 3 in my series of 12.............

Tag 3 - 12 Tags of Christmas

A nice bright one today! I've used the 'Baby Wipe' technique for this one..........now it sounds a little strange but is is simply drops of ink onto a folded wad of baby wipes which then acts as your temporary inkpad!
It lasts for a couple of hours at least, so while you have it prepared you can stamp lots of things to use at a later date ;-)
I did just that and went on to make a matching card to go with this tag..............

supplies for Tag
Whisper White, card
Medallion background stamp, Delightful Decorations
Re-inkers in More Mustard & Riding Hood Red (both from the Regals collection)
1/2" Circle punch, Ornament punch and regular office hole punch
5/8" Organza ribbon

supplies for Card
Whisper White, More Mustard, Riding Hood Red card
Medallion background stamp, Delightful Decorations, Season of Joy
Re-inkers in More Mustard & Riding Hood Red (both from the Regals collection)
Ornament, Large Oval & Scallop Oval punches
5/8" Organza ribbon

Thanks for your visit today, see you tomorrow with the next tag and news of my sketch challenge winner and new sketch!

Carol xxx

Just to let you know...............

2010-12-06T20:08:00.001Z

.............that Tag 3 in my series of 12 will be shown tomorrow - Many Thanks ;-D

Carol xxx

12 Tags of Christmas - Day 2 Dasher in the Snow

2010-12-05T10:52:00.003Z

Morning!

Day 2 of my Tag series and today I have Dasher in the Snow.............

After creating my tag shape from card, I stamped the row of trees using Always Artichoke. I then overstamped Dasher with Early Espresso.
I added a 'sky' with Bashful Blue and a dauber and some snow with the Frost White shimmer paint and an Aqua painter.......I also drew some footprints with an Early Espresso marker and a small moon with the 1/2" circle punch and the sticky part of a post-it note!

supplies
Always Artichoke, Bashful Blue, and Early Espresso & Marina Mist inks
Frost White shimmer paint & Early Espresso marker
1/2" Circle, Scallop Trim Border, & Jewellery Tag punches
Early Espresso, Whisper White card
Jumbo Eyelet, Linen Thread & 1/8" Early Espresso taffeta

Thanks for popping in today..........

Carol xxx

12 Tags of Christmas..............Stampin'Up! style!!

2010-12-04T10:24:00.004Z

Hello Lovelies, I've been away from here for a while but I'm back now with something a little different!

I much admire the work of Tim Holtz......especially his 12 Tags of Christmas, so I thought I would have a go at creating some of my own using all the wonderful Stampin' Up! products that I have at my fingertips! So here goes with Day 1 of 12 Tags of Christmas..............Stampin'Up! style!!
I hope you enjpy them ;-D .....................

This tag uses several inks and some of the gorgeous ribbon and hardware that Stampin'Up! have to offer!

supplies
Bashful Blue, Real Red, Marina Mist and Whisper White inks
Riding Hood Red striped Grosgrain ribbon & Marina Mist 1/8" Taffeta ribbon
Serene Snowflakes & Contempo Christmas stamp sets
Basic Rhinestone Jewels & Flower Designer Brads
Round Tab punch & Crop-a-Dile on largest hole setting
Whisper White & Marina Mist card

My next Stamp Class, the last of this year will be held at my usual venue on the 14th December where we will be making the Tags in this collection, just in time to add to all those Christmas parcels..............so if you would like to come along and have a go at making some of your own, then please get in touch!

Hopefully I will see you tomorrow with the next Tag in the series!
Have fun today, whatever you are doing................

Carol xxx

A Bunch of New Cards.......

2010-11-25T23:36:00.011Z

I've got a few cards to share with you today, but first my Card Candy from convention!

I joined in with one of the organised swaps that are arranged via ILWS and managed to get in Group 7 of the Card candy swap and here is what I made......

Stamp set used..... 'For Everything' page 46

I am so glad I opted to join in and received some gorgeous swaps in return and would like to take this chance to say thanks to all the other ladies in Group 7 :)

Now for some cards.........the first three are from Tuesday's stamp class and feature the Hostess Level 1 set 'Punch Potpourri' The first sample is also my card for my current sketch challenge

These last two are M&T projects from a little stamp class at my house last week, we also made some flowers with DSP but my eldest daughter nabbed them at the weekend so I have no photo of those!This idea was taken from Becky Roberts over at Inking Idaho......I LOVE her blog :)
and last but not least, my attempt at brayering! I think I need some more practice but I enjoyed having a go!

I hope you have enjoyed this little selection today, let me know if you have any questions ;-D

See you soon,
Carol xxx

My sketch blog returns...........

2010-11-24T17:12:00.002Z

Hi Everyone,
I just thought I would make you aware of the return of my sketch blog today! I know some of you enjoyed playing along with my sketches in the past and thanks for all the e-mails asking for it's return ;-)

Well it's back today! so pop over and see if you fancy having a go at sketch #23 and then nip back tomorrow to see the prize that I have for this fortnight.

Back here later with some recent cards for you and then back to prepping for my stall at 'All Saints Church Christmas Fayre' which is to be held on Saturday 10.30 till 4 at Renhold Village Hall. If you are at a loose end you could always pop in and say Hello :)

See you later....
Carol xxx

Some news and..................my convention swap!

2010-11-20T10:44:00.005Z

Hi Everyone,
I have had several e-mails throughout the summer asking me for the return of my Sketch Blog! So for all those lovely ladies that have been asking and waiting for it's return..........you will be pleased to know that Carol's Sketch Fun will return on Thursday 24th November at 5pm! It will run as normal for two weeks and the winner will be picked at random to win a bundle of crafting goodies!

To check out the previous sketches and to see what it's all about, click HERE!

Also, whilst I'm here I thought I would show you my main swap for Convention........I am not so good at making loads of the same thing, so I had four different ones! The picture below shows my favourite one......................................although cutting all those frames and birds did give me a blister on my thumb!!

supplies
Card ~ Baja Breeze, Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla
Ink ~ Basic Grey, Cherry Cobbler, Baja Breeze
Markers ~ Baja Breeze, Basic Grey
Colour Spritzer Tool
Boho Blossoms punch and a brad from the Neutrals collection

Just a reminder for the Paper Share I am running at the moment.......if you would like a place in the share please let me know via e-mail or, If you would like any other Stampin'Up! goodies please get in touch!

Have a lovely weekend and I'll see you very soon ;-D

Carol xxx

Designer Paper Share

2010-11-16T12:13:00.029Z

As promised I am back with details of my Designer Paper Share. All the papers are shown below and you will receive one 6" x 6" piece of each double sided design.

I will need 8 people for the share and then I can start cutting!!
You will receive 78 sheets in a 6 x 6 size, one of each of the double sided designs shown above.

£13.50 (if collected from myself)
or
£15.00 (if posted out to you)
this is a seperate offer to any Stampers 10 commitments

Please e-mail me - carol@casamiacrafts.co.uk if you would like a place in the share
I look forward to hearing from you - Many Thanks ;-D

Carol xxx

A little Christmas Box

2010-11-15T12:17:00.003Z

Hello Everyone :-)

I'm back today with another of my boxes! This time it is a little Christmas one which could contain something sweet or is a good size for something more exciting!.......maybe a watch or some jewellery........................

The instructions for this style of box can be found within my PDF for 'Pocket Silhouettes' which is for sale in my right side bar, so you would need to purchase that to get all the details!

I hope to be sharing some more free tutorials very soon but in the meantime if you love 3D items then all of my PDF stamp classes contain at least one!
I will also be giving details tomorrow of a Designer Paper Share.....................watch this space!!!

Thanks for popping in ;-D
Carol xxx

Pictures of Convention..........finally!

2010-11-11T22:00:00.021Z

Hi Lovelies...........I know it's been a while since I posted anything for you to read but I have been slightly busy enjoying myself!!!

Just to warn you that there are quite a few photo's coming up...............they say every picture tells a story, so not much else to say really.............. Enjoy :-)

I intended to take lots more photo's but I was so busy most of the time and didn't have chance!!

How would you like to join me and my team next year? We are small but growing steadily! It won't be at the same venue though...............................................next year it's being held at Disneyland Paris!!!!! Have I tempted you?? Contact me if you would like a 'no obligation' chat....
carol@casamiacrafts.co.uk...............look forward to hearing from you ;-D

Back soon with some projects made with all my freebies!

Carol xxx

Bundle Up!

2010-11-02T17:33:00.004Z

Hello Lovelies ;-D
Stampin' Up! have the most fabulous offer at the moment and it continues throughout November & December while stocks last!

You can now get some gorgeous products, (for a limited time) some which are not usually available to us in the U.K. and better still................................you get a FREE reel of gorgeous ribbon!! with each bundle, so please be quick if you would like to take advantage of any of the following........

click the picture to get a closer look :-)

I am still in the process of creating swaps for Convention....................yes I know!!! I booked for this as soon as I could but I have had lots of other things to do that had priority over the swaps and of course I wanted to make them using some of the fabulous new goodies in the new catalogue, so I couldn't really get going on them any sooner! Well that's my excuse anyway ;-)

If you would like to place an order for any of the above or indeed anything from the current catalogue please e-mail me...... carol@casamiacrafts.co.uk

Thanks,
See you soon....

Carol xxx

Painted Faces......

2010-10-31T21:12:00.010Z

....and a Bouncy Castle and a Huge Inflatable Slide and loads of sweet kids dressed as bugs or other weird & wonderful things!!
Today was my eldest Granddaughter's fifth Birthday party and I did manage to snap a couple of pictures during the chaos............................

A pink ladybird!! my son made the cake and unfortunately ran out of red colouring for the icing!

This is our gorgeous Louise who sadly couldn't have a go on the slide or have her face painted! You can see Justine in the background and the queue forming for the face painting......

All these photo's and I did not get one of Danielle as she would not keep still long enough for me to take one!!
And last but not least.............one of me helping out with the face painting! I've never done it before but all the children seemed happy enough and as you can see I was concentrating very hard :-)At the moment I am like a Duck.......calm on the surface but paddling like heck underneath!!! knee deep in swaps, on two lots of medication for my painful knees and blood tests tomorrow! but nevermind, as long as all is o.k. for Thursday when I leave for Convention...........I am so excited I cannot begin to tell you!!!!

Bye for now ;-D
Carol xxx

Yesterday.................

2010-10-24T19:48:00.007+01:00

......was brilliant! I had a lovely day with some wonderful ladies who came along to my 'Step into Christmas' all day stamp class.

Now, I did remember to take my camera this time however, I got so engrossed in all that was going on that I only took a couple at the beginning before they all started.......I wanted some of everyone stamping and punching away and I totally forgot............I didn't even get one of my Raffle prize table!

But.....I got these...........We were in the larger of the two halls this time and here are the samples I made for the day......

Firstly.....the Reds & Greens

and the BluesAlthough I was in pain for most of the day I still thoroughly enjoyed myself! All the work is so worthwhile hearing the lovely comments from my stamp girls and I want to thank you all for coming along......................Huge Thanks to........ Wendy, Sue.S, Sue.W, Felicity, Heather, Rosie,
Lynne and Brenda. You are all 'SUPERSTAMPERS!!!!!!
Sorry to the ladies that missed out this time for one reason or another.........sometimes life just get's in the way of our Stamping!!

See some of you on Tuesday and the rest of you very soon I hope :-)

I may not get chance now to show you anything for a couple of days............I have my regular Tuesday workshop and then I'm off to meet some new ladies at a workshop on Wednesday night where I also get to meet Carol...........we've been 'bloggy' pals for a while, but have not actually met!.......I am nervous and getting quite excited too!

Back soon,
Carol xxx

More cards for Saturday ..............

2010-10-19T17:57:00.003+01:00

Hi Everyone! Just a quick post from this hectic household!! to show you three more sample cards for my 'Step into Christmas' all day get together :-)

I will be changing colours now as I have made several in this gorgeous combo, think it may be time for some blues and snowflakes! only paper ones mind we don't want any of the real stuff just yet!!!
Maybe I should invest in one of those lightbox thingies for my photo's!! the light here this afternoon was terrible and raining too which never helps!

You have one more day to register for my all day session, so drop me an e-mail if you would like to come :-) then I can give you more details or...... you can check out this page for more info.

Back soon, thanks for popping in! ;-D

supplies
Stamps - Delightful Decorations, Contempo Christmas
Card - Old Olive, Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla
Jolly Holiday DSP
Punches - Eyelet Border, Ornament, Two Step Bird, 1.1/4" Circle, 1" Circle
Old Olive Satin Ribbon, Gold Elastic Cord

One more card..............

2010-10-13T19:06:00.003+01:00

.............from last night's Stamp Class!

Hi Everyone,
A really quick post to show you one more little card using the Hostess Level 2 stamp set 'Cute by the Inch', I also made a couple of boxes with the scraps which I will show you soon too!

I used one of my blender pens and Pumpkin Pie ink to colour in the 'Hi' portion of this stamp, the main section was stamped with Chocolate Chip and punched & layered with several of the circle punches including the scallop which I've 'poked' with the Paper Piercing tool.

I need to get stuck into some more samples for my all day Christmas event Saturday 23rd October 'Step into Christmas'......I have spaces left if any of you would like to join us! If you are a fellow demonstrator and you live close enough to come along you will be most welcome ;-D
Please e-mail me carol@casamiacrafts.co.uk if you would like more information or if you would like to add your name to my list!

bits & bobs
Cute by the Inch stamp set, Pear Pizzazz, Pumpkin Pie, Baja Breeze, Early Espresso and Whisper White card, Greenhouse Gala DSP, Certainly Celery 3/8" Taffeta ribbon

Thanks for your visit today - see you soon,
Carol xxx

Delicious New Designer Series Papers.............

2010-10-11T17:36:00.003+01:00

Hello All.......
I thought it was about time I shared with you some more of the yummy new patterned papers that we have in the catalogue (pages 88-91), there are so many gorgeous patterns & colours and they smell fab too!!...........I don't have all of them just yet, but I did provide myself with several of the range because of course I NEED them to be able to show the customers and all my lovely ladies that attend my stamp classes! Good excuse for a spending spree.....

Today's projects show how perfectly two of the collections go together as if they were made for each other..................... 'Love Letter' from page 89 & 'Newsprint' from page 91

Both the paper collections have a Very Vanilla base and coupled with the new Riding Hood Red & a little Basic Black...................Mmmmm! Lovely

I found a couple of these unruled blank notepads in my stash.....I've only seen ruled ones in the shops but I guess they would be easy to make from regular copy paper! The pen is from Tesco and I've rolled up a slither of paper and tucked it inside the barrel. A nice little gift set suitable (I think) for a man or lady.
I am really enjoying myself showing you all this gorgeous new stuff! Thanks for popping in today and lookout for some more new cards & projects very soon ;-D

bits & bobs
Basic Black, Very Vanilla and Riding Hood Red card, Newsprint & Love Letter DSP, Riding Hood Red ink & Crumb Cake ink (on the torn edges) Scallop Trim punch, 1/8" Basic Black Taffeta ribbon.

Cute by the Inch!!

2010-10-10T14:27:00.003+01:00

Hi Everyone,
I think I must have had Halloween on the brain when I chose these colours today!! however, no pumpkins in site just a cute little flower from the new Level 2 Hostess set 'Cute by the Inch'............
I have used colours from the new 'In Colour' palette and also the brand new Scallop Trim Border & Corner punches. I would suggest having a play with scrap paper first as they work slightly differently to other brand punches of a similar style, but as you can see the effects are gorgeous!

The image is coloured with markers and then layered onto card with another new punch Curly Label Extra Large and accented with some of the new 1/2" Pear Pizzazz stitched poly ribbon.

Bits & Bobs
Peach Parfait, Basic Black & Whisper White card, Pear Pizzazz DSP(In Colour patterns stack) Scallop Trim Border/Corner, 3/16" Corner Small & Curly label punches, Pear Pizzazz 1/2" stitched ribbon, Basic Pearls.

If you would like 'Cute by the Inch' as your FREE gift, or any of the products listed above then contact me to find out how!! ;-D
Thanks for popping in today.........see you soon...

Carol xxx

A Wee Handbag!

2010-10-08T20:02:00.006+01:00

Hello Lovelies :)
After the very boring man's card yesterday I have something much better to show you today......
a tiny cute little Handbag!

At about 10.30pm the other evening I decided to try and make a treat holder with my own dimensions.......I had made them before using tutorials from other bloggers who share their work, however I wanted my own, to fit a certain something inside ;-D and here it is..............

At only 2" tall and 3" wide it is, as the title says a wee handbag!!! and................there is something sweet inside but that is a secret for the time being!

Bits & Bobs
Cute by the Inch stamp set(level 2 Hostess) Early Espresso, Pink Pirouette card, Greenhouse Gala DSP, Scallop Square, 3/16" Corner Rounder & 1/16" Circle punches, Early Espresso ink & brad, Early Espresso 1/8" Taffeta ribbon

Back soon...........
Carol xxx

Thank You Man!!

2010-10-07T22:26:00.003+01:00

Hi Everyone,
I missed popping on yesterday as I am busy making 'swaps' for Peterborough on the 17th and I'm elbow deep in card, ribbon & paper! I did however take a tiny break to make this Thank You card which is for a male colleague at the office.............

No pretty or frilly embellishments on this one, just basic and to the point!

Bits & Bobs
Sahara Sand, Early Espresso card, Early Espresso ink, Scallop square punch, paper piercing tool, Early Espresso 1/8" Taffeta ribbon.

See you soon ;-D
Carol xxx

New Catalogue ~ Day 5

2010-10-05T21:37:00.003+01:00

Hi Everyone ;-D
We went out for dinner earlier this evening and have not been back long, so I am rather late again with my update..............................but better to be a bit late than not at all I suppose!

My last card for the time being using the fabulous Contempo Christmas stamp set..........I will return to this set in a while and maybe in a different colour combo!
A bit quirky again today as I have stamped and cut the ornament stamp to make a new pot for my Christmas Tree. I think it is good to see lots of different ways of using your stamps to be able to put them to the best use and therefore to get your monies worth :) .......... maybe next time I work with this set I can come up with some more ideas to share with you!

Bits & Bobs
Contempo Christmas, Tiny Tags, & Serene Snowflakes stamp sets.
Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive inks & card, Whisper White ink & card, Basic Grey for the sentiment, Peach Parfait for the star! Scallop Edge, Word Window punches, Gold elastic cord.

Thanks for popping in...........
Carol xxx