Paper Flourish

A Little Something For You Notebook & Pen Set

2011-03-07T00:01:00.000-08:00

This sweet little notebook set is made with a cover of pink glimmer card and a strip of purple punched card along the bottom of the cover (Martha Stewart Doily Punch). I added a chipboard flower on the front of the notebook, then a sheet of white card in the packet as a backing.

The white card was cuttlebugged with Swiss Dots. I added a small pen sitting on top of the notebook. The topper is made with a Nellie Snellen oval die (love Nellie Snellen dies) and the sentiment stamp is from Stampin Up.

New Birthday Sundaes Challenge Blog

2011-02-28T04:43:00.000-08:00

I've found that most people like birthday cards which actually say "Happy Birthday" or similar, as opposed to no sentiment. So I sometimes find it difficult to come up with new variations on the theme with just the same few birthday sentiment stamps I own. I'm hoping the new Birthday Sundaes Challenge Blog (starts March 20th) will give me some new ideas and also "stretch" me a bit with trying new techniques.

Apparently, more birthday cards are sold in stores than any other type of cards. And I'm finding when friends ask me to make cards, birthday cards are among the most popular, so the Birthday Sundaes Challenge Blog seems like a great idea.

From the site

Birthday Sundaes is a weekly challenge blog beginning March 20, 2011. The goal of Birthday Sundaes is to build up those birthday card stashes! I just love to make birthday cards and hope you do too! Types of challenges Birthday Sundaes will be hosting are color, supply, recipe, inspiration & technique challenges incorporated into birthday themed cards.

If birthday cards are up your alley, I noticed they're having a DT call as well.

You Are Sew Fabulous Card

2011-02-24T00:47:00.000-08:00

This card is made with a digital image from the amazingly talented and generous Sharon at Steady On. Love the buttons with all the different patterns.

I added a sentiment from the equally talented and generous Paulette at Create With TLC to the digital image and printed it onto cream paper. A few real buttons and a faux stitched border matted onto black card finish it off. I think it will be a good card to give a friend who likes sewing.

I'd love to try real stitching on cards as it looks so effective on cards I've seen... an adventure for another day, perhaps.

English Rose Elegance - 5 Happy Birthday Cards

2011-02-11T19:44:00.000-08:00

The English Rose Paper is from Kaisercraft. The shaped tags on some of the cards are Journal Tags from the same range. I was able to indulge my love of vintage and pearls with these papers - quite the shabby chic look, I think. On the last card, I added real lace (as opposed to paper lace), something I haven't tried before.

Love the little butterfly perching on the tag in the third card. Thanks Amy for the butterfly punch. I'll be using it a lot.

Heart Cards Say Thank You - Australian Floods

2011-01-28T02:19:00.000-08:00

Have you heard of the horrendous floods which recently deluged Australia? In the state of Queensland, 75% of the state was affected. This is equivalent to twice the size of Texas or France and Germany put together. Victoria and New South Wales were also hit by flooding. Loss of life, property and livelihoods was devastating.

Help, donations and messages of support from fellow Aussies and from people all over the world has been amazing. Now one Aussie card maker has come up with a unique idea to help those affected say "Thank You" to the generous souls who have rallied to assist.

Simple. Make Thank You cards and send it to her for distribution. What a grand idea... the Power of One.

From The Heart Cards Site

"HEART CARDS" is a project to give communities that have been affected by devastating events, such as natural disasters; and community groups, a way to say "Thank You" to those who have helped them out in times of need.

Paper-crafters are asked to make packs of 10 thank you cards or blank cards that will be given to communities and groups.

"HEART CARDS" will be an ongoing project to create hand made cards for those families who have lost so much.

Please keep checking back here on our blog to keep up-to-date with our latest card drives.

Thank you for your interest and for taking part in this VERY worthwhile cause.

Even if you can't help, I thought you might like to know about this project which reflects the supportive and caring nature of our wonderful papercrafting community. For more, head to the Heart Cards site.

Update February 5th:
Since my original post above, a severe cyclone (hurricane) has hit Queensland - lots more hearthbreak. In some cases, whole towns have been virtually wiped out with houses reduced to matchsticks. Plus more terrible floods and bushfires have hit Victoria and now bushfires and homes lost in Western Australia.

Just 2 Cards - Just Experimenting

2011-01-18T16:05:00.000-08:00

Just 2 cards where I've been trying out new techniques. Apologies for washed out photos, (also discovered it doesn't help to photograph them on a black background). The first one I've been playing around with distress inks and background stamping... actually looks quite nice and so much cleaner and brighter in "real life".The Japnese Girl is a Sparkle n Sprinkle stamp and the background stamps are from Kaisercraft.

I love the House Mouse Amanada Writes stamp, so matched it with a Happy Birthday sentiment stamp and layered partial cuts with the Martha Stewart doily punch.

In the absence of great photography skills, I'm wondering if I need a light box to take more consistent photos, so as not to be at the mercy of the weather and variable light. I went to the camera shop to ask about it. He said forget photos. Scan instead.

Any thoughts on lightboxes, photo tips or whether it's best to scan? What works best for you?

Looking For Nestie Friendly Stamps?

2011-01-09T06:12:00.000-08:00

Looking For Nestie Friendly stamps?

I've just updated my October 2010 listing for Nestie Friendly stamps. I've also included some Nestie Friendly Digital Stamps I came across. Go to the orignal post to check it out.

Do you know of any others to add to the list?
I love the concept of Nestie Friendly stamps, so will be continuing to update the list as I come across more.

Please feel free to leave a link in the comments to either new additions, or to your own creations using Nestie Friendly stamps (clear, rubber or digital)

Credit: Image is from Whimsy Stamps - Digital Dressed Up Shapes from Raindrop Echo

Friendship Card Plus An Innovative Card Idea For Charity

2011-01-05T01:34:00.000-08:00

I've been experimenting with using doilies on my handmade cards. The sentiment on this card says
Friendship is what binds the world together in peace.

For Christmas I received a wonderful card from my sister - not handmade, but amazing all the same. It was a card saying a donation had been made in my name to help a woman start a small business in Sri Lanka in the wake of the Tsunami and Civil War.

This is through an Oxfam initiative offering other great gift card ideas for sponsoring a bicycle ambulance, clean running water, chickens etc. Best of all, these cards can be given all year round. Great to see imagination, creativity and reaching out all come together.

And I love the idea of a card. Like our handmade cards, there's a sense of connection and something special in a card picked out especially for you. Wishing you all everything wonderful for 2011.

Distress Style Christmas Card With Fancy Folds Flower

2010-12-18T22:20:00.000-08:00

Tim Holtz Inspired
This is a Christmas card I made for a friend who likes the distressed look. The background is a blend of Tim Holtz Shabby Shutters distress inks onto white card, and a touch of Tea Dye distress ink overlaid in parts. I usually use a blending tool, but sponged the background this time, and quite like the effect. I still started from the edges as Tim shows, and find that works well.

I also sponged the edges of the flower with distress ink to make it stand out from the background. The background stamps are from Kaisercraft and the sentiment is a Verve stamp and I think they fit the Tim Holtz style as well.

The flower is basically 9 punched circles fancy folded then arranged in a circle. I used a 1.5 inch scallop punch. The holly is cut from Designer paper with Glossy Accents on the 3 holly berries.

Fancy Folds
I saw the folds for the flowers in a book called Fabulous Folds For Card Making by Tanya Fox. Lisa Silver was the designer for the card that inspired mine. You can see her Happy Day card using this flower at her blog. I think hers is very effective with the 2 contrasting colours and the brad, so this flower fold is very versatile for all card styles.

Challenges
Simon Says Stamp & Show - Lord Tim Holtz technique
2 Sisters Challenge - Christmas

Gift Bag & Notecards Set

2010-12-06T19:03:00.000-08:00

This is a little gift I made for a friend - a mini bag and 4 notecards. The bag is a variation of a Bagalope. There are numerous tutorials online for a Bagalope - a bag made from an envelope. The one I started with is a video from Dawn's Stamping Thoughts - a very talented lady.

I just varied it using Bazzill Black Swiss Dots instead of an envelope plus designer paper and ribbon to finish it off . The tag says "A Little Something For You" (Stampin Up) and cut with a Nellie Snellen Oval die.

The notecards are very simple layers prettied up with the Fiskars Threading Water Punch. The edges of the cuttlebugged (Birds & Swirls) white card are sponged lightly with pink stamp ink. The base layer is black Swiss Dots, the same as the bag.

If you try this the only issue I had was that the folded card is hard to keep together underneath the bag as it wants to spring back. Next time I would add some strengthening pieces, but I'm happy with it for a first effort.

Do you have any fave gift bag designs you can recommend or point me to? I'm ready to try a few more now that I've dipped my toe in the water.

New Year Blogaversary Giveaway

2010-12-06T18:12:00.000-08:00

Erika at Taylord Concepts is having an amazingly generous crafty blogaversary giveaway valued at $900 in the new year. To share the goodness around, there will be multiple winners sharing the prizes.

Not all the giveaway items are pictured here. These are just 2 pics of many you can see at Erika's blog of all the items in the giveway. The little dresses above are alterables and the second pic is an assortment of crafty goodness. Check out the amazing ribbon organizer too... love it. Thanks for your generosity, Erika.

Head on over to Taylord Concepts for all the details. Closes January 5th. While you're there, check out Erika's blog... one very talented lady.

May Your Day Be Filled With Beauty And Love... And Ribbon... And Cards

2010-11-28T17:56:00.000-08:00

I have discovered a new (to me) challenge blog - The Ribbon Girl. How could I resist a challenge for the gorgeous colours of pink, lilac and white? I even managed to included some ribbon too.

I love the quote on this card - May Your Day Be Filled With Beauty and Love and that is what I wish all of you. I look forward to your visits and appreciate your generous support. Thank you for the time you take to visit and comment.

Check out the challenge post at The Ribbon Girl to see all the beautiful DT samples. Lilac, pink and white is such a lovely colour palette. Closes December 14th.

Vintage Angel Christmas Card With Butterfly

2010-11-22T20:25:00.000-08:00

Here is one of the first Christmas cards I've made this Christmas season.

The edges of the base card are brushed with Tea Dye Distress Ink and also the main image and edges and here and there. I do love distress inks. The image is layered onto gold card. I like the image - quite peaceful and reflective.

The image is from the very generous and talented Elisa at Digital Designs by Elisa. Explore the site and her shop. This image was free but prices at her shop are very reasonable.

The Seasons Greetings sentiment is done with a Cuttlebug folder onto bronze card. The butterfly is 3 stamped layers with Twinkling H20's on the wings.

Challenge:
Simon Says Stamp & Show - Distress Inks - Closes November 28th

Time You Enjoy Wasting Is Not Wasted - Card

2010-11-15T19:19:00.000-08:00

The sentiment says

Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted (John Lennon)... a great sentiment for papercrafters.

This is a free digital stamp from Beccy's Place which I've coloured with Twinkling H2O's and layered using the Martha Stewart doily punch on the edges. I've added a cute yellow flower to the flowerpot.

Vintage Bird On Glimmer Card - A Little Bird Told Me

2010-11-08T07:21:00.000-08:00

Here's a card I was quite happy with. It's on glimmery pink card. The sentiment is a computer generated font. I'm starting to see different ways to use the doilies, so am experimenting with that at the moment. And which punch would you use with a doily? Martha Stewart's doily lace punch of course - mainly because I don't own any others yet. ;)

I quite like using this larger square format... sort of a bigger "canvas" to work on.

Sweet Friend Party Girl Card

2010-10-28T17:29:00.000-07:00

I've been experimenting with paper piecing. The stamp is a digi from Sassy Studio designs and the Sweet Friend sentiment stamp is from the gorgeous Flourishes Apple of My Eye set. I distressed the card after cuttelbugging with Divine Swirls. I added some gorgeous bling and Kaisercraft flowers for a finishing touch.

I used the Nestabilities Labels 4 die for the main image and a smaller version for the Sweet Friend sentiment. I also used my Martha Stewart doily punch for the borders and added some red ribbon.

Challenges:
Simon Says Stamp - Punch 'Em (Punches & Dies)
Flourishes - Anything But Buttons & Bows

Calling All Australian Cardmakers - Can You Help In Any Way?

2010-10-15T09:55:00.000-07:00

Can You Help?
CURRENT CARD TALLY = 848
CARDS TO MEET TARGET= 152

Tracey Hanshaw has been keeping me posted on progress for this amazing initiative to provide handmade Christmas cards for troops overseas to post home to loved ones. Currently, there are 3 700 Aussie armed forces personnel in peace keeping missions throughout the world.

Appreciated By The Troops
Last year there was so much positive feedback from personnel. They really appreciated that people back home were thinking of them. And that crafters would go to so much trouble for people they didn't know. It's wonderful for these men and women to be able to send a special handmade Christmas card to someone back home, when apart from loved ones at Christmas.

Tracey says

Just thought I would let you know with 3 weeks to go, we now have as at today, I have collected 858 cards, I know that Karen has collected another 200 odd down there in Sydney, and I know that one of my girls has another 250 with her and we still have two big days scheduled in.

Tracey also says there are some still to come in and not counted/confirmed, so the total is likely to be much higher.

CURRENT CARD TALLY = 848
CARDS TO MEET TARGET= 152

How You Can Help (even if you're not an Aussie)

Spread The Word in forums, blogs, in your local card groups and with friends
Contact Tracey to find out where to send spare handmade Christmas cards you have around
Get together with friends and have a cardmaking day for the cause
October 26th - If you live in the Maitland, NSW area, you're invited to come along to Tracey's making cards for the trooops day

More details, including contact details can be found at Tracey's Stampin Up Blog or Karen's Paper Lady. Thanks ladies for co-ordinating such an amazing initiative.

Michelle Philippi's In The Bag Giveaway

2010-10-15T06:15:00.000-07:00

It's starting to feel a lot like Christmas with all the generous crafters emptying out their goodie bags,. Or in the case of Michelle Philippi, a super goodie box.

Check out the fab gift bags Michelle has made... so creative and inspirational. And she's giving away not a bag of goodies, but a box of goodies ... too many to fit in a bag... so generous! And the range of goodies is amazing. I"m just dabbling in mini books, so noticed those right away, plus stamps, ribbons, brads, paper, diecuts and more.

Head on over to Michelle's site to find out all the details and while you're there, take a look around her fab site.

Shabby Chic Quilted Heart Card

2010-10-09T23:14:00.000-07:00

Another square card. I quite like this size and shape... a bigger "canvas" to experiment with. I like the shabby chic or vintage look of the quilted heart (papers from a craft magazine). I've added a button and embroidery thread.

The sentiment is on an oval using a Nellie Snellen Multi die. It's been a rainy day here, so again, I apologise for the photo quality due to poor light.

Does anyone have a reasonably priced source for envelopes for square cards?

Beatrix Potter Bunny Card

2010-10-09T22:42:00.000-07:00

I'm experimenting with square cards. Apologies for shadow on the photo. It's a rainy day here so very little nice natural light.

This is a Beatrix Potter image. I've added a Cuttlebugged border, a gold tie and a button. Very simple, but I thought it might make a nice card for a child, or even a new baby card.

Papertrey Ink Blog Candy

2010-10-06T20:06:00.000-07:00

I followed the recent Papertrey release and loved the stamps, especially the Wreaths For All Seasons stamp set, so was excited to see Monlight Creations is offering the gorgeous Wreath stamp set as a generous giveaway. It's such a versatile set. There is also Papertrey cardstock and ribbon.

Check out the details at Moonlight Creations. Closes October 10th, 2010.

While you're there, check out the main site as Moonlight Creations makes some stunning handmade wedding invitations and stationery.

Do You Know Of Any Nestie Friendly Stamps - I'm Making a List

2010-10-03T00:27:00.000-07:00

As I start to slowly build my collection of Spellbinders Nestabilities Dies (love them!), I'm on the hunt for stamps that fit the Nesatabilities frames. I'm coming across more and more, so thought I'd start a list as a reference for myself and for anyone else who may be interested.

Do you know other companies who make Nestabilities compatible stamps? Please leave a comment, and I'll add them to the list. I'll update this list as I find more.

Nestie Friendly Stamps Listing

Just Rite Stampers (Download Die Punch Compatibility PDF)
Waltzng Mouse Stamps (direct link to Nesties Friendly stamps)
Papertrey Ink (Don't claim Nestie Friendly but similar shape to Labels 1 - Check size) - Also have their own range of dies- Fillable Frames
Gina K Designs (direct link to Nesties Friendly stamps - also for punches)
Flourishes
Heartfelt Creations
Stamping Scrapping (direct link to Nesties Friendly stamps)
(Not sure of Manufacturer For These as also available elsewhere. Do you know?)
Blockheads Stamps (direct link to Nesties Friendly stamps)
Layers of Color (direct link to Nestie Friendly stamps)
Scrapbook dot com (then search for Donna Salazar Compatibles)
Sparkle n Sprinkle Combo Dies & Stamp Sets

Nestie Friendly Digital Stamps or Frames Listing

Lindsay's Stamp Stuff at My Grafico (direct link to Vintage Christmas themed Nesties Friendly Digital Stamps and Vintage Halloween themed Nesties Friendly Digital Stamps)
Raindrop Echo Designs at Whimsy Stamps (direct link to Nesties Friendly Digital Stamps)

Any others?

Update: Spellbinders has announced further partnerships with Flower Soft, Our Daily Bread, Quick Quotes, Sparkle N Sprinkle, Taylored Expressions, Technique Tuesday, The Rubber Café, and Unity Stamp Co.

I haven't had a chance to look into these yet, to see if they have Nestie Friendly Stamps. Will update the list as I get to them.

Credit:
The pictured set is from Gina K Designs by Nina Brackett - works with Spellbinders Labels 1,4, 8 and 9

I Love Papercrafting Blogaversary Candy

2010-10-02T18:33:00.000-07:00

Jerusha at I Love Papercrafting is celebrating 2 years of blogging with a super blogaversary giveaway.

I have my eye on the wonderful Spellbinders and Provocraft goodies, but there's also an amazing selection of fab stamps, stickers, ribbons, prestamped images, embellishments and more. Jerusha calls it her Every Occasion candy, covering all sorts of occasions and holidays. Wonderful! Thanks Jerusha... and Happy Blogaversary.

Head on over to find out more. Closes October 23rd.

Man's Card - Hello

2010-09-30T06:08:00.000-07:00

I don't make many men's cards, so thought I'd better try them more often. This fab image is a free one from The Frugal Crafter. Thanks Lindsay.

A simple card with an embossed sentiment and layered with a black matt onto designer paper. The image is on watercolour paper and so is the stamped sentiment, which is edged with distress ink. I like using watercolour paper. It seems to give it a bit more depth or texture.

Challenge Entry:
Fab n Funky Challnege #42 - Is it black or is it white (with a twist)? (black, white and brown) (Closes Wed October 6th.)

Thank You Card For Heart To Heart Alzhemiers Support Card Drive

2010-09-30T04:23:00.000-07:00

It's rewarding to make cards for friends and family, but equally rewarding to reach out to those who do so much... the unsung heroes of the world.

Cammie's grandmother, Mamo, suffered from Alzheimers. Cammie is organising an Alzheimers Support card drive, rallying us to send cards to say Thank You to Alzheimers carers to celebrate her Grandmother's birthday, as well as World Alzheimers Day. I heard a man speak just the other day about the impact on the carers as they care for loved ones. Of course, there are many helping professionals who do so much for Alzheimer's patients too. My card has been sent to the staff at the Artman Home where Cammie's grandmother was.

Giveaway
I hope you'll join in the card drive too by sending a card or cards to someone you know, a local group or to the Artman Home. Lots of fab companies have come to the party too in very generously supporting this card drive, by providing prizes for a super mega giveaway. The sponsors list reads like a Who's Who of Papercrafting.... over $1000 worth of craft goodness. Some include Just Rite, Spellbinders, Gina K, Taylored Expressions, Papercraft Magazine and many more. Lots of individuals have contributed too, including making handmade cards, all part of the giveaway.

Join The Heart To Heart Alzheimers Support Card Drive
Head on over to Cammie's blog to find out more and to join this very worthwhile cause. Closes October 3rd. Thanks for organising this wonderful concept, Cammie. I'm sure the carers will really appreciate it, and it bring attention to a very important issue. I'm pleased to be involved.

Gwen's Busy Little Hands Giveaway

2010-09-28T20:21:00.000-07:00

Gwen is celebrating a technology win (always cause for celebration!!) and is also doing a craft room clear out.
She is generously hosting a giveaway at her blog, Gwen's Busy Little Hands for goodies including

a Cuttlebug embossing product
a Sizzix die
Papers,
Stickers
Ribbon

Thanks Gwen. Closes September 30th. Head on over to find out more and to enter.

While you're there, check out Gwen's blog. I love her banner and tagline... A Place To Spread Your Creative Wings And Fly... a perfect sentiment for crafters. Gwen will be hosting monthly giveaways.

Blogging Keeps My Mind And Heart Dancing - From Cathe Holden

2010-09-27T18:03:00.000-07:00

The fabulously talented and generous Cathe Holden at Just Something I Made has come up with this amazing little animation. Great fun.

Talk about mixing the old and the new. Cathe scanned every page of an old time flip book, and with the wonders of modern technology, turned it into an animation.

If you want this for your sidebar or want to check out her other animations or other creative crafty and design ideas, head on over. It's one of my favourite sites to visit.

Autumn Card For A Man

2010-09-27T06:36:00.000-07:00

Love these Autumn colours and thought this would make a good man's card with the darker russet tones and the olive green ribbon.The background is stamped with autumn leaves and one additional leaf is popped with multi dimensional tape. The die for the sentiment (stamped onto watercolour paper and heat embossed) is a Nellie Snellen oval from the Multi series.

As an aside, I'm finding watercolor paper with its extra thickness is great for stamping onto, for die cuts and especially for embossing as it leaves deeper impressions than regular paper. I'll be using it a lot more from now on, although I won't go overboard, as it's more expensive than regular card.

Challenges:
Cards For Men Challenge #20 - Autumn (Closes October 10th)
Squiggle Stamps September Challenge - Anything Goes
Everybody Art Challenge - Autumn (Closes September 27th)
Stamp Something - Fall Colors (Closes September 30th)

Birds and Nest Congratulations Card

2010-09-23T01:48:00.000-07:00

Apologies first off for the quality of the first image. Can you tell it is birds and a nest - a beautiful image let down by my dodgy photography. The image is from The Graphics Fairy. It's printed on gloss paper and cuttlebugged.

In "real" life it is quite delicate and the embossed Swiss Dots enhance the look rather than detract from it. The second photo shows my first attempt at stamping on ribbon and the layering of my tiny scraps of card with my much loved Martha Stewart doily punch. Next time, I'll leave off the exclamation mark, I think... learning all the time.

Challenges:
Crafty Sentiments #36 - Use Your Scraps (scraps of ribbon and scraps of card)
Stamp Something - Digi (Digi birds and nest) (Closes Thurs September 23rd)

Starving Artistamps Backlit Blooms

2010-09-23T00:08:00.000-07:00

I love silhouettes and haven't seen too many around in stamp form.

So I was excited to discover the Backlit Blooms series of stamps from Doodle Factory. I was even more thrilled to discover that the full 6 sets of Backlit Blooms stamps are up for grabs. This is a generous blog candy at Starving Artistamps where they are promoting their new releases and where birthday celebrations are in full swing.

Don't you love the card above made with one of the stamps? It looks almost like the Chinese cloisonne effect on the flowers. That's from adding special Prima flowers to the stamped images. Beautiful. And how about the stamps themselves, pictured below. I could really have a ton of creative fun with those and my distress inks. They're a generous 5.75 inches tall and come with sentiments.

If you want to join in the giveaway, head on over to Starving Artistamps and find out more. Closes September 25th.

Created With Love Blogaversary Giveaway

2010-09-22T07:16:00.000-07:00

Carin from Created With Love is celebrating her 1st Blogaversary.

She is inviting us to join in the fun with a generous giveaway. I am in love with Distress inks. And do you spy those gorgeous dragonfly and butterfly stamps and other stamps too? I'm just starting to use punches and I spy 3 border punches. Wow... look at what Carin is offering.

2 moleskine books (1 sketchbook, 1 watercolour notebook)
5 sheets mulberry paper in assorted colours (tan, cream, green, lilac, peach)
5 illustrated pages from classic vintage children's books. '
3 border craft punches (1 musical notes, 1 ribbon heart, 1 daisy)
4 rubber stamps (1 border of hearts, 1 designed by, 1 brush dragonfly, 1 shadow wings)
3 Tim Holtz Distress Ink Pads (old paper, faded jeans, pumice stone)
1 bottle Glamour Dust

Head over to Created With Love to find out more. Closes September 24th. Drawn September 26th.

Vintage Distressed Bird Card With Text Background

2010-09-19T00:05:00.000-07:00

This is a card I've just finished making for my first ever card swap. The brief was to make 6 cards the same, using birds plus any distress technique.

The coloured background is a digital image from the very talented Vintage Catnip. I overstamped it with a text stamp. I stamped and embossed a bird plus a bird cage on a punched circle popped with multi dimensional tape. Then it was layered onto card coloured with Dusty Concord distress ink and stamped with postmarks.

I'm a bit nervous sending my cards to other cardmakers for the first time, but hope they like them. Best of all, I get cards back and can't wait to see how others have interpreted the brief.

Challenge:
This is my entry into the Secret Crafter Saturday Challenge #101 - Anything Goes
Also - The Shabby Tea Room Week #27 - Inspired By Nature

Prima Goodness - The First Prima Ideas Book

2010-09-18T22:53:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love all the Prima goodies?

Well now Prima has brought out their first ever idea book. It has lots of inspirational ideas, techniques and yummy photos to showcase what can be done with their products.This includes scrapbooking, card making and even fashion.

Of course, you could buy one, and here's the info about the new Prima book from their site, if you just can't wait to get your hands on one

18 Artists from all around the World
Over 130 Projects
One Brand
Item #540081

Want to win one?
Just head over to this Prima post to find out more. Closes September 21st.

Hello Across The Miles - Vintage Style Card

2010-09-07T23:18:00.000-07:00

I was quite pleased with this card - a bit of a vintage feel to it.

The postmarks background is a digital image overstamped in parts with a background stamp using dark pink ink. I used the Martha Stewart doily punch to edge the layered tag (love that punch).

The gorgeous butterfly is from a Crafty Secrets Pad of images - beautiful and glossy. Then, I stamped a sentiment, added olive green ribbon for the tag, and that was that. Lots of fun. I think I'll use it to send a note to a friend I regularly correspond with by "snail mail".

The blue background is NOT part of the card. I need to refine which surface is best to sit my cards on when photographing, so apologies.

This is my challenge entry for
Shabby Tearoom Challenge #26 - Tag, You're It (Sept 13)

Upcoming 2010 USA Craft Fairs

2010-09-07T22:35:00.000-07:00

I was exploring the CHA site and came across this listing of upcoming USA 2010 Craft Fairs. A girl can dream...

Which is your favourite craft fair... anywhere in the world?

SEPTEMBER

September 17, 2010 - September 18, 2010	Creating Keepsakes Scrapbook Convention	San Marcos, TX
September 24, 2010 - September 26, 2010	TACA Fall Craft Fair	Nashville, TN
September 24, 2010 - September 26, 2010	The American Sewing Expo	Novi, MI
September 25, 2010 - September 26, 2010	Heirloom Rubber Stamp & Paper Arts Festival	Anderson, SC
September 30, 2010 - OCTOBER October 02, 2010	Original Sewing & Quilt Expo	Chantilly, VA
October 01, 2010 - October 02, 2010	INDIEana Handicraft Exchange	Indianapolis, IN
October 02, 2010 - October 03, 2010	Rubber Stamp & Scrapbook Expo	West Springfield, MA
October 02, 2010 - October 03, 2010	Heirloom Rubber Stamp & Paper Arts Festival	Fort Wayne, IN
October 08, 2010 - October 10, 2010	Whole Bead Show	Providence, RI
October 08, 2010 - October 09, 2010	Creating Keepsakes Scrapbook Convention	Kansas City, MO
October 09, 2010 - October 10, 2010	Heirloom Rubber Stamp & Paper Arts Festival	York, PA
October 09, 2010 - October 10, 2010	Rubber Stamp & Scrapbook Expo	St. Paul, MN
October 14, 2010 - October 16, 2010	Georgia Quilt Show	Atlanta, GA
October 14, 2010 - October 17, 2010	Pacific International Quilt Festival XIX	Santa Clara, CA
October 15, 2010 - October 17, 2010	Whole Bead Show	New York, NY
October 16, 2010 - October 17, 2010	Rubber Stamp & Scrapbook Expo	Milwaukee, WI
October 17, 2010 October 17, 2010	"Sunday, Crafty Sunday" Gift Bazaar - Dia de los Muertos Celebration!	San Diego, CA
October 20, 2010 - October 24, 2010	Creativ Festival	Toronto, Canada
October 22, 2010 - October 24, 2010	Great! Scrapbook Events Crop & Shop	Gaylord, MI
October 22, 2010 - October 24, 2010	Original Sewing & Quilt Expo	Kansas City, MO
October 30, 2010 - October 31, 2010 NOVEMBER	Rubber Stamp & Scrapbook Expo	Las Vegas, NV
November 06, 2010 - November 07, 2010	Rubber Stamp & Scrapbook Expo	Denver, CO
November 11, 2010 - November 13, 2010	Original Sewing & Quilt Expo	Minneapolis, MN
November 12, 2010 - November 13, 2010	Creating Keepsakes Scrapbook Convention	Seattle, WA
November 13, 2010 - November 13, 2010	Holiday Craft Fair & Car Show	Jacksonville, NC
November 21, 2010	Make it Indie	Cobourg, Ontario
November 27, 2010 - November 28, 2010	Bliss Holiday Gift Market	Oklahoma City, OK
December 18, 2010 -	City of Craft	Toronto, ON

Easy Origami Men's Shirt Card

2010-09-05T00:11:00.000-07:00

This simple male card is inspired by a card sent to me by the talented Sue Laufer at Left Handed Crafter. Sue very generously sent me 5 gorgeous cards as her blog giveaway prize.

I've been wanting to make one of these little men's origami shirts for ages after a friend showed me how. You can find origami shirt video insructions here if you want to give it a go.

The cream layer is cuttlebugged and a little loop of Stampin Up ribbon peeks out from under the layer above it.

This card is for the following challenges -

Corrosive Card Challenge #79 - For The Guys
Simon Says Stamp & Show Your Layers (Sept 7)

Paper Rosette Pearl & Lace Challenge Card

2010-09-04T04:34:00.000-07:00

I tried my first paper rosette for this baby card. The paper was first edged with the Martha Stewart doily lace punch. Then it was pleated and folded and made into a circle.

Keeping the rosette together was tricky. Any tips? I need to experiment with the width and length of the paper strip to perfect this. Here's a paper rosette video tutorial if you want to give it a try yourself.

The circle was cut with a Nellie Snellen multi die (love these). The edges were lightly sponged with Shabby Shutters distress ink and some pearls added.

I'm entering this into the

Simon Says Stamp Challenge - Pearls and Lace (Pearls plus punched paper lace edge)
All Sort Challenge - New Beginnings (New Baby)
Simon Says Stamp & Show Your Layers (Sept 7)

Simple Vintage Card

2010-08-30T06:54:00.000-07:00

This card is a very simple vintage style one.

The main images are a two digital stamps merged. They are free digital vintage images from Tid Bit Trinkets, The background is also a vintage digital image.

The computer generated sentiment (obcsured a little by the ribbon, sorry) says "Be good, and if you can't be good - be stylish."

Challenges I'm entering this in are
Cute Card Thursday - Challenge #127 - Dieing for a punch (no punches or dies allowed) (Sept 2nd)

Cupcake Craft Challenge - Challenge #106 - Let's Get Digital (September 5th)

Stampin For The Weekend - Challenge 45 - Anything Goes

Crafty Girl Designs Celebrations

2010-08-29T05:25:00.000-07:00

Crafty Girl Designs is celebrating her blogaversary.

She has a great idea to spread the celebrating around.. She's doing 5 small, easily postable giveaways for 5 separate people. Lighter things can be sent anywhere less expensively - makes a lot of sense and very generous. The stamps pictured are just one of the giveaways over 5 separate posts.

Other prizes include Cuttlebug Folders and a gorgeous cling stamp.

Head on over to Crafty Girl Designs to find out more. Some close on Monday August 30th, and the rest on September 6th.

How Many Types Of Ribbon Are There? A Roundup

2010-08-28T23:11:00.000-07:00

I've been reading The Complete Photo Guide to Ribbon Crafts.

They list ribbons I hadn't thought of, so just for fun, I thought I'd explore. Here's a bit of a list of the different type of ribbons and tying fibres available these days. Still a lot I need to try out.

Isn't it wonderful to have so many crafty choices? Any others?

Types of Ribbon Roundup

Satin
Taffeta
Picot Edge
Grosgrain
Twill
Jacquard
Sheer - Organza, Georgette etc.
Velvet
Chenille
Silk
Metallic
Wire Edge
Synthetic (Curling Ribbons etc.)
Paper, Jute, Raffia, Other Fibres including recycled
Knitting Ribbons
String, Baker's Twine, Wool
Cord
Lace
Ric Rac
Wrinkled Ribbon
Suede
Fancy - Pearls, Sequins,
Shaped - Leaves, Flowers etc.
Punched Metal e.g. Sequin Waste

And that's without thinking of patterns and other variations such as stitched ribbon etc.

Can you think of any other types of ribbon I've missed?

Cute Teddy Thank You Card

2010-08-28T21:54:00.000-07:00

This cute Teddy Thank You card opens out with the double half fold. Not sure if that is called a gatefold?

I used a Nelllie Snellen Multi Die for the circle. I love these dies. They are so versatile, reasonably priced and give a nice effect. The edge of the circle is sponged with blue ink and the plain blue paper is cuttlebugged with one of the Asian Cuttlebug folders.

The teddy is a digi stamp from the wonderful Mellissa at MelJen's Designs

Challenges I'm entering this card in are
CES - Challenge #1 Anything Goes
Bee Crafty - Challenge #37 - Anything Goes (September 11)
Aud Sentiments - Challenge #9 - Anything Goes (August 31)

Clean & Simple Challenge Card

2010-08-27T20:52:00.000-07:00

I've made this card for my sister's birthday. She likes clean, stylish but simple lines. Apologies for the shadow in the photo. You can click to enlarge it, to get a better idea if you like.

It was very easy, but I like how it turned out - quite elegant, I think.

It's white Swiss Dots paper layered onto a black edge. The Martha Stewar doily punch softens the lines. The flower is from Dover.

I rubbed a spoon on the back of the flower to curl it a bit, for more of a dimensional effect. I added a single pink rhinestone in the middle, and kept the ribbon simple too.

I'm entering this into the Totally Papercrafts Challenge 31 - Let's Keep It Clean & Simple.
If you want to enter the challenge, it closes on Friday, September 3rd.

Pink Card Making Inspiration

2010-08-27T20:16:00.000-07:00

Aren't they gorgeous?

I photographed these beautiful pink begonias in the Begonia House in Ballarat, Australia.

I was all set to come home and grow begonias myself, I was so in love with the delicate blooms. Alas, I found out they won't grow in my area, as it's too hot.

Pink Inspiration Card Making
Next best thing, make some pink flower inspired cards, and a good excuse to buy all things pink. I've gathered yummy pink ribbons, flowers and paper in all shades. Oh and yes, of course pink bling.

I have the pink inspiration and the card making materials. Now, I just have to get to and actually make the cards.

I may not have pink begonias in my garden, but I still have the gorgeous photos to inspire me. Can you grow begonias in your area?

Etsy Wish List Craft Gossip Giveaway

2010-08-27T03:34:00.000-07:00

Who wouldn't want a blank cheque to spend at Etsy?

The Craft Gossip Etsy Wishlist Giveaway
I bet we all have an Etsy wishlist. It's a great place to browse at all the wonderful goodies.

Craft Gossip is a network of craft blogs, including Scrapbooking and Stamping. They are giving 3 people a chance to win a $100 gift voucher each to spend at Etsy on their Etsy Wishlist. Check out my Wishlist for the Giveaway below.

They cover shippping too, which is a real bonus. Find out more at the Craft Gossip Etsy giveaway post on their site.

What I'm Looking At
I'm keen to make some more cards and papercraft projects, especially experimenting with Vintage, French inspired and Oriental themes. I found the perfect selection for my Etsy wishlist for the Craft Gossip giveaway.

Here's my $100 Etsy Wishlist
Cute Japanese Stamp - Traditional Pattern - $10.50
Wooden Stamps In A Can - Bird - $26.00
Wooden Stamps In A Can - Paris - $26.00
Duet Stamps - Bird & Bird Cage - $9.00
Duet Stamp Set - Angel - $9.00
Duet Stamp - Lace - $9.00
Cute Japanese Stamp - Flowers - $10.50

Comes to $100 exactly and all from the one Etsy store... Karaku - one of my favourites.

Gosh. that was fun choosing. Hard to stop though! It would be so fun to play with this little selection of goodies. I have some ideas already.

Do you have an Etsy wishlist?
Head on over to Craft Gossip to find out how to make your own Etsy wish list. Winners announced September 1st and open worldwide.

Mini Books Know How Links

2010-08-25T02:00:00.000-07:00

The very talented Kerri at My Scrappn Addiction reignited my creative juices with this fabulous envelope book, pictured above.

She runs all sorts of papercraft classes too if you're in the Melbourne area (Australia). Check out her site for lots of wonderful creations and ideas. I'm also looking forward to seeing the Recipe Book that Kerri's going to make soon.

I've recently tried making a tag book, also known as a flag book. I'm just dipping my toe in the water with mini books, but enjoy experimenting, especially as I now have my new Bind It All.

Over 60 Mini Book How To Videos
So I went on a search. Wow! Check out Card Making Accessories for a feast of mini book goodness. There are over 60 individual videos of mini books there. That should keep us all busy for a little while. :)

First though, I'll be making Kerri's yummy envelope book! Thanks for the inspiration, Kerri.

Envelope Book Image: © My Scrappn Addiction - Used With Permission

Free Downloadable Word Art Sentiments from Papercrafts Magazine

2010-08-18T16:54:00.000-07:00

Papercrafts Magazine has a section on their site with great free downloadable sentiments, patterns and other downloads. Many are in colour.

I've made it easy for you, by doing a very broad listing of some of what you'll find there.

The word art sentiments I spied include -

2010

September/October- Halloween
July/August - Thankyou, Gratitude & Inspiration
Card Creations Vol 8 - Christmas, Birthday, Thankyou, Dad and more
May/June - Mothers, Fathers and A Good Laugh
Go To Sketches - Birthdays, Best Wishes, Friends, Thinking of You
March/April - Baby, Love, Marriage, Congratulations, Thanks tag
January/February - Valentines

2009

November/December - Christmas, Holidays, Thanksgiving
September/October- Halloween
July/August - Earth, Tree, Mother, Thankyou
May/June - Mothers, Fathers, Graduation
March/April - General
January/February - Success, Wisdom, Happiness, Education

2008

November/December - House, Home
September/October- Halloween
August - Flowers, Birds, Colours, General

Here's an article with links to cards done with these free word art sentiments. More cards are shown with the actual sentiments in the download section. Enjoy browsing... some great ideas there!

For more free digital stamps and downloads check my Free Digital Stamps List

Please Note: Check rights and terms of use for freebies or downloads before use.

CalligraFUN - Callilgrafun Brush Marker Lettering

2010-08-18T14:09:00.000-07:00

I'm thinking of doing Martha Lever's online Calligrafun workshop.
It's fancy lettering with brush markers. Others who've done the course have given positive feedback. I'm a long time reader of Martha's blog, Art Du Jour. She is delightful and super talented.

I also enquired about the course and Gail from Shabby Cottage, which hosts the courses, couldn't have been more helpful with my questions. So all is sounding good. Now, I just need to get myself organised.

In the meantime, here are some Calligrafun videos from YouTube. Enjoy!

Shabby Wrinkled Ribbon Candy

2010-08-18T05:41:00.000-07:00

I love vintage and have a thing for ribbon, so I was delighted to discover this Shabby Wrinkled Seam Binding in a beautiful array of colours.

Nicole at Gotta Have Paper is giving away a gorgeous bundle of 3 different coloured ribbons from Prairie Bird Boutique, an Etsy shop. This one is called Past Autumn with 5 yards of each colour.

I'm also partial to the ribbon bundle called He Sent Roses which has "moss green, deepest rose pink and beautiful burgundy wine" colours. There are some amazing shabby wrinkled ribbon colours on offer.

This giveaway closes on August 22nd, so head on over to check it out.

Super Idea - Make Your Own Stamped Doily Image

2010-08-12T23:36:00.000-07:00

At the Paper, Scissors and Superheroes blog, there is a super idea to "build your own doily" stamped image. I love this idea and it looks so elegant. And of course, you can make your own variations using whatever stamps you have at hand.

It looks like a medallion. Basically, you use any circle stamp (a fancy one is even better). Then you bend any clear stamp straight line image, such as a border into a semi circle or scallop shape and stamp around the outside.

Better still, head on over to Paper, Scissors and Superheroes and check our the superb tutorial for this very clever technique.

Thanks for a great idea, Betsy. I'm off to experiment with this fun way to use my border stamps.

Found A Great Stamping Blog - Selma's Stamping Corner

2010-08-12T05:48:00.000-07:00

With so many blogs, there is always something to learn, something to marvel at and something to be inspired by. So I was delighted to discover Selma's Stamping Corner which ticks all those boxes beautifully.

I'll be going back to visit regularly. I also want to have a really good look at Selma's Rose Tutorial for beautiful pink paper and vellum roses and the Crepe Flower Tutorial.

I'm also a big Just Rite Stamps fan, so was pleased to see lots of wonderful ideas for Just Rite projects. Selma generously shares her tips and how to's.

I encourage you to head on over to Selma's Stamping Corner and explore.

Ah.... so many great blogs... so little time.

Blogging The Book - Complete Photo Guide To Ribbon Crafts - Part 1

2010-08-09T10:08:00.000-07:00

The Complete Photo Guide of Ribbon Crafts - Book Review - Part 1
I'm obsessed with ribbon at the moment and have found the most amazing book by Elaine Schmidt.
I just zipped across to Amazon and notice it has good reviews there too, so I'm not alone.

I thought I would cover this book over a series of posts to give a better overview for ribbon lovers. First, I have to say, I would really recommend this book.It's the most comprehensive I've seen (224 pages), and covers a lot I haven't seen before,. The full colour photos and clear instructions are a big part of this.

Chapters include -

A Brief History of Ribbon
I found this fascinating.

Did you know they used ribbon to adorn clothes in Ancient Egypt?
Did you know that during the 16th Century the British Parliament tried to make wearing ribbons a right only of the nobility?

All About Ribbons
Covers different types of ribbon from satin to metallic and stylish ways for trimming up ribbon "ends"

Making Bows
This was an eye opener to me with full colour photo instructions for an amazing array of bows - many I'd never seen before.

There are also chapters on -

Ribbon Flowers
Ribbon Embroidery
Ribbon Trims, Rosettes & Tassels
Ribbon Weaving, Patchwork & Knitting
Sew & No Sew Ribbon Techniques
Ribbon Accessories
Crafting With Ribbon (including Papercrafts)
Resources

Available from Amazon - $16.49

First Impressions of The Complete Photo Guide To Ribboncrafts
Loved the broad coverage and ideas
New bow styles I hadn't seen, but definitely want to try
Not just for papercrafters (e.g. sewing and knitting with ribbon too), but lots that could be adapted.

Watch out for Part 2 of the Review with specific details e,g, all the different bows covered, in a future blog post.

Over To You
Have you read this book? Do you have any other Ribbon book recommendations?

There's also a Complete Photo Guide of Papercrafts in the same series. I'll be looking for that one, for sure.

Calling All Australian Cardmakers

2010-08-08T07:50:00.000-07:00

Making Christmas Cards For Australian Troops Overseas

Can you help?
Karen at Paper Lady and Tracey - an Aussie Stampin Up demonstrator, are organising blank handmade Christmas Cards to be sent to Australians troops serving overseas. They need to have them by November 5th, 2010. See further details at Karen's and Tracey's blogs.

Target of 1000 Christmas Cards - Updated Total To Date - 330
Karen and Tracey have a target of 1000 cards. The tally so far is 75, ~~250~~, 330 so a fair way to go yet. Spread the word.

They've had great success in past years with sending Christmas and Mother's Day cards with lots of grateful feedback from the troops who have little access to quality cards. Also, the troops appreciate the gesture from people thinking of them back home.

Organise Your Own Group Cardmaking Day
Or you could send the cards yourself if you get together with a group of friends for a card making day. I'm not sure if there are any specific guidelines e.g. cards with glitter cannot be sent to US troops. Karen and Tracey may have more details.

Some details on what can be sent to Australian troops can be found at the Ocean Sky Khaki blog. Apparently, you can send up to 2kg post free (not just limited to cards) through any Australia Post Office.

Just in... August 9th Update From Tracey
....combined christmas cards Karen and i now have 250 cards and climbing daily, we have had 2 pizza boxes full from the Gold Coast and some from others all over Australia. The donations for me are over whelming and I cannot thank everyone enough, but please keep them coming, we would definitely love to reach 1,000.

Updated: August 10 - 330 cards

Delicious Doodles Birthday Digital Stamp Freebies

2010-08-08T05:27:00.000-07:00

Teri will be sharing a free digi a day from Sunday August 15th through to Saturday August 21st. All the goodies will be available in the Delicious Doodles Shop.

For more digi goodness check out my posts on

Free Digital Stamps list... just a starting point - not comprehensive.
Crafters Digital Arts Center Spotlight
Free Digital Stamps All In One Place

Tim Holtz Candy

2010-08-08T03:44:00.000-07:00

Tim Holtz seems to be something of a crafting rockstar.

Stacy from Scrap With Stacy is celebrating her birthday in style with a fabulous Tim Holtz giveaway. It closes August 23rd. Head on over to find out more and to wish Stacy a Happy Birthday.

Here is the low down on the crafty bonanza. I have my eye on the distress ink... love it.

1- Film Strip Ribbon (Idea-ology)
1 - Muse Tokens (12 tokens)
1 pkg - 48 Charm Fragments
1 pkg - Grunge Flakes - Stampers Anonymous Stamps
1 pkg - Journaling Tickets - (Idea-ology)
1 pkg - Grungeboard - Basics - Plain (10 sheets)
1 pkg - Grungeboard - Plain Elements (94 shapes)
1 pkg - 3 sheets of 12x12 Grunge Paper
1 pkg - Ruler Ribbon (36 inches)
1 pkg - Timeworks Masks (5 pieces)
2 pads - Distress Ink (Brushed Corduroy and Frayed Burlap)
1 pkg - Tissue Tape -Symphony (2 rolls- 16 yards each)

Jak Heath Candy

2010-08-08T02:53:00.000-07:00

The amazingly talented Jak Heath is offering blog candy.

You can be in the running for a set of Promarkers and a set of ultra cute HAnglar baby stamps. What a great combination. The candy closes August 8 at 10 p.m. UK time.

When you go to check it out, be sure to take some time to look around the blog.

I have been a long time follower of Jak's blog and she has a wealth of great ideas. Her cards using Mo Manning digital images are stunning. I'm also a fan of her style with Stampin Up cards. Plus there are even some free designs by Jak herself including background papers - all beautfiul.

Operation Write Home & No Glitter On Cards

2010-08-07T20:34:00.000-07:00

Operation Write Home

This may be old hat to some, but it's a very worthwhile concept and I was interested in the background of their no glliter on cards requirement.

Operation Write Home asks you to make cards to send to soldiers overseas. Their mission is

To support our nation’s armed forces by sending blank greeting cards to write home on, as well as cards of gratitude to encourage them.

What a great idea!

To support this cause, Operation Write Home offers card makers a lot of support and have developed a blog community. Check out the site and blog for card challenges and some great tips for card making.

There are even some free digital stamps donated by well known digital artists to help you with making cards for the armed forces.

No Gllitter Rule for Operation Write Home Cards

And the most often asked question - Why no glitter?
The reason behind our "no glitter" requirement may help to clarify things. It's not about the shiny aspect of glitter. It's about the messy side of it!

Many of our deployed heroes live in very primitive conditions. Primitive as in no showers for a couple weeks. No laundry. Nowhere to get cleaned up. And if they open a box of cards and get sprinkled all over, they might have absolutely nowhere to get rid of all that mess; they may not even realise it's all over them.

And if they have glitter on their uniforms it can put them at risk — it can make them visible to night vision goggles, and that is just not a risk we're willing to take!

Easy Origami Men's Shirt For Male Card

2010-08-07T07:52:00.000-07:00

Simple Origami Men's Shirt
I found some great instructions at Operation Write Home for the men's shirt above - great for men's or boy's cards. These would make an effective Thank You card for a male teacher too.

My friend makes these beautifully, and gave me one to copy. I worked it out by taking one apart, but now the visual instructions in this great tutorial will be a big help. It shows the folds, the direction and order of the folds etc. with very clear instructions and photos.

Origami Men's Shirt Video Tutorial
They also tracked down a great Origami Men's Short video on YouTube. This adds some more hints for folding and finishing these origami shirts.

Variations
You can draw buttons or add brads for buttons. It's amazing how different papers give a different look e.g. a formal shirt with a tie or a beach shirt with summery papers. Different sized shirts can be effective too.

I'm going to give it another try, now that I have some more reference points. Thanks Operation Write Home.

Image Credit: Operation Write Home

Crafters Digital Arts Centre Spotlight

2010-08-07T04:04:00.000-07:00

Are you a digital stamp fan?

Crafters Digital Arts Center
Check out the Crafters Digital Arts Centre. This is a great relatively new resource for those who are interested in digital art, digital challenges, digital stamp freebies etc. It's a Ning Network, so it's set up much the same as Papercraft Planet with a forum etc.

Digital artists such as Michelle Perkett, Karen's Doodles and Dustin Pike are represented there. As well as some free digital stamps, you also see what new digital stamps are coming up for sale.

Free Tutorials
One of the aspects I've found incredibly useful is the Tutuorial Section shared by the leaders and community there. There are over 60 tutorials available right now. They cover a huge range of topics related to digital stamps and digital art.

Tutorial - Faux Postage Stamps in Microsoft Word
One I found really interesting is Faux Postage Stamp. You could adapt this for any digital stamp.

There is also a listing of tutorials which will be "go live" when they are ready... good to know what's ahead, and more are added regularly.

Check It Out
It looks like a generous and active community, so take a look if you're interested in doing digital or hybrid work with your cards, scrapbooking or mixed media art. Want to know more? Head on over and explore. I found it really interesting and informative - also good to have a specific digi focus all in one place.

Craft Stamper Magazine Fan & Tag Books

2010-08-05T04:18:00.000-07:00

What is your favourite craft magazine?

I'm a big fan of Craft Stamper, a montly UK magazine for papercrafters. It has a mixed media touch as well as tradiitonal cards and other papercraft projects. Craft Stamper comes with a free clear stamp and extra projects online related to the magazine.

Flag Books & Tag Books
I'm going to attempt the Flag Book pictured on the cover of the June edition above, for my calligraphy project.

If you're a fan of Craft Stamper Magazine, the Craft Quartet is a blog inspired by the magazine. The whole blog is about projects sparked by Craft Stamper. There are some great posts on the flag books. They look stunning.

When researching flag books, I also found this great video from the super talented Dawn from Dawn's Stampin' Thoughts. She calls it a tag book, but it's the same effect.

Update: Check out an innovative flag book or flag card variation with different size tags from Jozart Designs, a blog I follow... very inspiring.

Any more flag book, tag book or flag card variations? I'd love to hear about more ideas for this technique.

The Beauty of Letterpress - Video

2010-06-06T12:45:00.001-07:00

FireFly Letterpress from ilovetypography.com on Vimeo.

Creating From The Heart Blog Giveaway

2010-05-17T07:39:00.000-07:00

Melissa at Creating From The Heart has a gorgeous blog.

Pop over to check out her beautiful tea time treats .... tea party themed gift containers and other tea time goodies... very clever creations.

I love a tea party, and this tea party has candy as well. Yes, that's blog candy.

Check out the Creating From The Heart blog candy giveaway. Wow! A Sizzix Big Shot and 3 dies too... very generous.

The giveaway closes on May 31st. See you over there.

Big News Blog Candy at Make It Crafty

2010-05-16T21:48:00.000-07:00

Zoe at Make It Crafty has a great big news blog candy giveaway.

She's keeping us in suspense about her big news, but is sounding the fanfare with a big giveaway leading up to the announcement.

On offer are Copic markers in a stand up case, just for starters. Then, there are stickers, paper, brads, flowers and more.

Entries are open internationally, and close May 31st, 2010.

She has some really creative ideas. My favourite is the Rocking Horse Card. I love the Rocking Horse because it is so innovative and intearctive. It actually does rock. How clever!

It's much more than a card. This is the sort of card kids (or adults) would keep.It's something special.There's a video on the Rocking Horse blog post if you want to see it in action.

Take a look around the Make It Crafty blog while you're there... lots of inspiration.

Almost Wordless Wednesday - Button Feast

2010-03-24T07:12:00.000-07:00

A feast of hand embroidered buttons - almost good enough to eat.

Source:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/merwing/ / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Is The Bow Easy Worth The Trouble? Your Advice Appreciated

2010-03-20T03:35:00.000-07:00

Some people tie picture perfect bows every time.

I've looked at a few videos on using the Bow Easy. What do you think? Does the Bow Easy (or similar tool), make a big difference to your bow making results or help with special bows?

I'd be interested to hear your thoughts and experiences.

If, like me, you haven't used the Bow Easy, you can get the low down in the video below by Suzanne J Dean from Scrapbitz.

Paper Flower Rosettes - Video

2010-03-13T07:21:00.000-08:00

This video shows an easy but effective technique for making Paper Flower Rosettes from Tami White, at Stampin With Tami, I'm experimenting with different types of paper flowers at the moment, so I was keen to learn a new paper flower making technique.

Paper Flower Rosette Basics
I didn't follow the video exactly, but the rosette starts off as a thin long rectangular piece of paper all prettied up which you pleat and curl around to make a spiral circle flower shape. You could use any paper and any paper edging punch. I tried it with a Fiskars Threading Water Border Punch and Cuttlebug Swiss Dots embossed paper... still experimenting, but I love the technique - great for using scraps too.

The elegance comes from the simplicity of the white highlighting any texture or embellishments. I like the white, but you could try other papers for different effects - old book pages, magazine pages, designer papers, kraft paper, painted watercolour paper etc.

Stampin With Tami
You don't need to be a Stampin Up person to find Tami's blog useful - lots of great techniques and inspirational work. Thanks Tami! She even has a monthly give away.

Favourite Find Of The Week - Just Something I Made Blog

2010-03-06T05:28:00.000-08:00

Kanzashi Cloth Flower With Printed Words On Petals

I've been visiting Cathe Holden's Just Something I Made blog for a while now, and it just keeps getting better and better.

Looking around is like fossicking in an antique shop. There's something new and unexpected at every turn... a real treasure trove.

I thought I shouldn't keep all this crafty goodnesss to myself, so I'm sharing the link, - just in case you haven't discovered Just Something I Made already. There are over 2000 folllowers, so maybe I'm the only one who's a latecomer to the party.

Cathe is a commercial artist turned graphic designer and is very generous with sharing her finds from her own collection, purchases and lucky finds - great for artists, crafters, designers and more. Thanks Cathe.

Look for -

Vintage Clip Art
Silhouettes
Vintage Postcards & Photos
Images from Vintage Catalogues
Blog Buttons
Frames & Borders
Design inspiration
Craft Projects

Kanzashi Flower
As I've been experimenting with Paper Flowers, I was drawn to the Kanzashi Flower Project. Don't you love the way the names are printed on the cloth petals? A perfect gift for a mother or grandmother. You could most likely do this in paper too.... now there's a thought...

Enjoy!

Ronald McDonald House Needs Your Thank You Cards

2010-02-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

Sandy McIver is putting out a call for Thank You Cards to help kids at Ronald McDonald House.

Can You Help?

They Need-

Thank you cards for the kids to send
Thank you cards for the parents of the sick kids to send
Thank you cards for the staff to send

Head on over to Sandy's blog to find out more. This seems like a great cause if you can just make a few extra cards for sick kids at Ronald McDonald House.

Free Vintage Resource Discovery

2010-02-22T07:24:00.000-08:00

I love vintage, and have just discovered Tammy Tutterow aka Fairy Davis.

Tammy's site tagline is Papercrafts, Ribbon Work, Fabric Arts and Vintage Love. She offers a lot of free vintage postcards, photos, tutorials and resources.

As I'm into paper flowers at the moment, I was delighted to discover instructions for her CHA Prima Make-n-Take tag project. The flower on the tag is just so elegant.

Oh... I've just discovered the doodles section! Beautiful! I am in a calligraphy group, so really appreciate the beauty of hand lettering. These would be perfect on cards. I'm thinking of what I could create already. Check out these delicious doodles.

Copyright Caution
As always with free digital images, note the copyright restrictions/terms of use before downloading anything. Thanks, Tammy - a great resource for vintage lovers.

Paper Flower Flourish - Spiral Flowers Tutorials

2010-02-16T04:57:00.000-08:00

I've been getting into handmade paper flowers lately, so decided to explore some tutorial links for spiral paper flowers.

Spiral Flowers
Dozi Design has an easy to follow paper flower photo tutorial

And here's a very clear YouTube video tutorial from Miss Calia.

Have you tried Spiral Paper Flowers or any other types of paper flowers? Any tips?

Paper Flower Making Resources

Tissue Paper Flowers
The Art Of Making Paper Flowers

Layering Digi Images Tutorial & Cupcakes Too

2010-02-15T02:18:00.000-08:00

Tiffany at Tiffany Doodles is making quite a splash on the digital stamps scene.

Not only is she offering free digis, as well as those she sells, but she is very generous with her information too. The latest offering is a free tutorial on How To Layer Digi Stamps in Word. No Photoshop or Illustrator needed - just good old MS Word.

Go to Tiffany's site to grab the non watermarked version of the free Cupcake digi shown above. Tiffany shows you how to merge the different elements e.g. you can add sprinkles or a toothpick flag onto your cupcake to decorate it - all in MS Word.

Thanks Tiffany.

Another Fuzzy Duck Challenge Card - Free Digital Stamp

2010-02-13T03:48:00.000-08:00

Fuzzy Duck Friends

When I entered the Clearly Delightful Card Challenge with this Happy Spring ducky card, I received a gorgeous free Fuzzy Duck digi image from Laurie Wilson. Thanks Laurie!

I couldn't resist creating with him straight away, and so here is my second entry into the Duck Theme challenge. I was so inspired by the wonderful Design Team creations. Check them out. The Design Team has woven magic with just one Fuzzy Duck image with so many creative results. It's such a versatile image.

My Fuzzy Duck challenge card has a chalk embossed background, layered over orange card. The white layer is cuttlebugged with the Spots and Dots folder, and edged with the Fiskars Threading Water border punch.

Head on over to Clearly Delightful and join in the challenge.... such fun!

Just Ducky Card Challenge

2010-02-12T19:01:00.000-08:00

Happy Spring Duck Parade

This gorgeous little duck and ducklings is a free digi stamp from Pollycraft.

The image was printed onto watercolour paper. I coloured it with Inktense pencils, then a bit of fiddling and experimenting with an Aqua brush, a Blending Pen, Twinkling H20's and Kindy Glitz.

The pink background (love that colour) has been given the once over with the Cuttlebug Birds and Swirls folder, and there's Swiss Dots cuttlebugging at the bottom on the "Happy Spring" part.

This cute little Happy Spring card is for the duck themed challenge at Clearly Delightful.

Apologies for the poor photo quality - dark day and the flash wouldn't play along.

Related Post
Another Fuzzy Duck Challenge Card - Free Digital Stamp

Free - Very Cute Froggy Digital Stamp & Sentiments

2010-02-10T16:03:00.000-08:00

Wendy Colledge from Wendy Made has this oh so cute little froggy up for grabs at her blog. There are also free birthday sentiments to go with him.

Happy Birthday
Sorry I Frogot

Isn't he gorgeous? I can just imagine a few of these on a card or layout. Head on over to the freebie froggy post at Wendy Made before he hops away. Thanks Wendy.

Explore while you're there - lots of other great things to see at Wendy's site too.

Free Dustin Pike Owl Images For A Good Cause

2010-02-07T17:45:00.000-08:00

Dustin Pike is very generous, not only with providing free digi stamps to his readers, but with helping out for a cause.

He is offering three cute little owl images so you can make cards to send to Delia, a 10 year old girl with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

From Dustin's site -

She loves art, photography and really loves owls. I was hoping that there would be some wonderful women or men out there that would love to send her a card of encouragement.

I thought it would bring a smile to Delia's face to be inundated with cards as a special Valentines Day gift from people around the world.

Find out more at the Card For A Little Girl Freebies post at Dustin Pike's blog.

Gotta Have Bling - A Paper Crafter Branches Out

2010-02-03T04:07:00.000-08:00

Nicole Andersen is a Card Maker and Paper Crafter who was looking for a way to pay for her hobby.

She started beading and now has set up a blog and estore at Gotta Have Bling. It's so much fun to look around there and explore.

My Gotta Have Bling Favourites
I am drawn to the elegance of Vintage, so I went straight to the beautiful Gotta Have Bling soft pink pearls which have an old fashioned look to them - necklace and earrings. As a book lover, I also love Nicole's Book Bling - beautiful beads on sterling silver.

Nicole says

Artistry originates from the soul and is about expressing one's self. A TRUE artist creates from talent that is found from WITHIN, not from copying another! I want to share my love of art and design with you!

Head on over to Gotta Have Bling and have a look around at this yummy handcrafted jewellery. There's some blog candy on offer over there at the moment too - Closes February 5th. For cards and papercrafts, Nicole also has another blog, Gotta Have Paper.

Paper Flourish Free Digi Stamp Sources List

2010-02-01T04:22:00.000-08:00

I've moved all my Free Digi Stamp sources from the Paper Flourish Blog sidebar.

I'll update this post as we go. It is not intended to be comprehensive, but a list of places where I've discovered interesting free digi stamps.

Please Note:
Before you use any digi stamp, it's important to check the rights and policies related to the company and to the particular stamp. Even different stamps at the one company may have different rights. Freebies often have limited rights and stricter conditions of use.

Cautions
Most sources listed also sell digital stamps. Sometimes free digital stamps are only free for a limited time or to a specific group, or are withdrawn.

Free Digital Stamp Sources - Enjoy!
Please Check Rights & Terms of Use Before Downloading

Please advise any broken links so the list stays current and useful. Thanks!

Free Digital Stamps All In One Place

2010-01-31T19:37:00.000-08:00

Have you seen the new site giving you the low down on free digital stamps and where to find them?

Alison from Stretch & Bubbles is a digital designer herself. She's taken on the huge task of gathering free digi stamp sources and sharing them at her new blog Free Digital Stamps.

Why Do They Give Away Free Digi Stamps?
If you're just dipping your toe into the digital stamp world, a free stamp is a great place to start. Some digital stamp companies give away a freebie now and then, to help people get to know them and what they offer.

The Free Digital Stamps site is a great place to find out about the various digital stamp companies. These companies are rapidly growing in number as digi stamps take off.

A Caution About Copyright
Check the rights the company offers with both free and bought digital stamps. Rights may vary from one company to another, and even from free stamps to purchased stamps.

Karen's Doodles On Copyright
Karen from Karen's Doodles, a digital stamp company, has written an interesting post on the importance of copyright and digital stamps. It's worth reading and looks at not only the legal aspect, but also from the point of view of the artist making their livelihood.

Sizzixx Blog Candy

2010-01-30T22:30:00.001-08:00

This is an amazing prize... a Sizzix Big Shot.

Think of all the creative goodies you could make with this Big Shot. Head on over to the blog for all the details. It's a very generous giveaway.

Check it out at Kortoggodt.

Make Mothers Day Cards For Aussie Troops Overseas

2010-01-30T22:09:00.000-08:00

Want To Make Cards For Aussie Troops Overseas?
I've been very impressed with the work of Operation Write Home for U.S. trooops serving overseas. As an Aussie, I've been wondering if there was something similar for Australian troops overseas.

A Meaningful Gesture
Whether you agree with the war or not, this seems like a great way to help fellow Australians... something small but meaningful. I can just imagine someone at home receiving one of these special hand made cards from their loved one overseas.

Who To Contact
Tracey Hanshaw, an Australian Stampin Up Demonstrator, has teamed up with Karen Cummings to co-ordinate things. Last year was a big success with cards reaching troops in Afghanistan, Somalia and Egypt, as well as the Navy.

Karen has received grateful letters from the troops who find it hard to access quality cards. They also appreciate the gesture. The call is out for anyone who wants to make Mother's Day cards or Christmas cards this year. Mother's Day cards need to be sent by April 1st.

For more information visit Tracey or Karen.

Miss Gracie's House Vintage Giveaway

2010-01-30T20:08:00.000-08:00

I'm being distracted from my card making and paper crafts by discovering and exploring some wonderful sites.

I'm into Vintage and Shabby Chic at the moment, so was delighted to come across Miss Gracie's House. Rene has the most elegant things to share and now she has an Etsy shop too. Check it out at My Vintage Romance... gorgeous!

But to celebrate 300 posts, she's decided to have a giveaway. And what a giveaway it is... think style, class and the elegance of times past. There's even a vintage wooden box, plate and yes... chocs... what more could you want. This is something special.

Head on over to Miss Gracie's House for all the details. Closes February 1st.

Scrappin & Altered Art Giveaways

2010-01-30T08:01:00.000-08:00

Monique has an interesting site at Artiste Nouveau. She is a Canadian mixed media artist.

She has blog candy. In fact, she has a choice of 2 different packages. Both are great.

One is a Scrapbooking/Cardmaking package (pictured above), with an assortment of paper cutters, stencils and punches. The second one is perfect for making collages or for altered art projects. I'm tempted by both, but especially like the Scrappers Package.

Take a look and see which one is your favourite. All the details are at the blog candy post at Artiste Nouveau. Two winners will be drawn on January 31st.

Have a peek around the site while you're there... lots of interesting things to explore... quite inspirational.

Pay It Forward Crafting Style - What A Great Idea

2010-01-18T21:43:00.001-08:00

A Fantastic Crafty Bloggy Idea
Pay It Forward Crafting Style - What a crazy, brilliant, wonderful idea!

Joanne from Crafting Joanne visited my blog and left a lovely comment on my Shabby Chic Silhouette Card. When I visited her blog, I found she also has a new PAY IT FORWARD CRAFTING STYLE blog. What a fantastically brilliant idea!

How Does Pay It Forward Work?
If you want to join in, and send a small crafting package or hand crafted item to someone, or want to know more, head on over to the Pay It Forward Crafting Style blog. The online craft community is such a lovely and generous one, that this is a great way to connect and share even further.

Did you see the movie "Pay It Forward"?
You do something for someone and they pay it forward and that person does something for someone else, paying it forward, and so on and so on and so on. Add in crafts and you have a whole lot of fun.

Want To Join In?
To help spread the word, you can grab the Pay It Forward web button, for your sidebar or to write a post.

Top idea, Joanne! Thanks for getting the ball rolling. Let's all spread the word.

Blog Candy To Help With Better Photos - Wow! -

2010-01-16T07:45:00.000-08:00

I love making cards, but I have to work on getting better photos.

Winnie's giving away a fantastic photo set up to help with all this - a light box, 2 lights and a small tripod. What a great giveaway.

I hadn't even thought about a light box, but this would be absolutely perfect. And of course, lights and a tripod - both things that would really help me get better photos. Mine always seem to be too dark.

Head on over to Winnie's Whims & My Crafts for all the low down on how to win these. It's drawn on January 18th.

Shabby Chic Silhouette Card

2010-01-15T03:24:00.001-08:00

I'm trying something different this time - probably old hat to you, but new to me.

I've never tried Shabby Chic or silhouettes before, so trying some new techniques to make it all work in together. I also wanted to try this type of ruffled paper flower.

The background is embossed (Divine Swirls Cuttlebug folder) onto blue card, then painted over with white acrylics. I wiped the excess away, plus a bit of distressing. I "aged" the white around the silhouette with a tea bag and added some of my mother's old lace. The pink highlights on the dresses is Twinkling H2O's. The bottom edge is also embossed, this time with the Script folder.

Digital Elements
I wanted to work with the digi silhouette. The ticket "stub" is from the wonderfully generous Miss Cutie Pie. I added a computer generated sentiment.

Paper Flower Know How
I love paper flowers and was even more keen after my first try at a 3D flower for the Black and
White challenge.

The paper flower on this Silhouette Shabby Chic card above is a Vintage Ruffly Button Print Flower which was really simple, though I still need a bit of practice to perfect it. My know how guide was this great easy to follow video by Dawn McVey. Give it a try!

I used my 2 inch scallop punch. The top layer is Calligraphy script I found on the net (public domain). I'm learning calligraphy, so maybe this is a way I could recycle my practice sheets.

This card is for the following challenges -

Simon Says Challenge - Shabby Chic

Dare U 2 Digi Stamp - Buttons

Magical Crafts Challenge #6 - Vintage

ABC Challenge - L is for Layering (2nd card)

Corrosive Challenge #46 - Distressing

The Craft Garden - New (new techniques)

Crafty Angels Week 17 - Can You Feel It? (Textures) (2nd card)

Crafty Cardmakers #12 - What's New (new techniques)

Craft Creations #50 - Textures (2nd card)

Digital Tuesday - Embossing (2nd card)

Creative Card Crew Challenge - Distressing (2nd card)

Your Next Stamp #7 - Embossing (I do love embossing!)

Charisma Cardz #2 - Anything New (new digi images)

Sweet Bunny Card

2010-01-13T04:31:00.000-08:00

I had a lot of fun making this card.

This sweet little bunny is a digital stamp from Phindy's Place. Phindy does gorgeous work! The cute little cupcakes are also digis. They're from Nikki at Graphix and Designs. The Happy Birthday sentiment is also a digital element.

Twinkling H2O's
Most of the colouring is done with Twinkling H2O's. It doesn't really show up in the photo, but I find that Bronze Medallion Twinkling H2O is perfect for Teddy Bears and furry creatures, like this Bunny. Does anyone have any other Twinkling H2O recommendations. I love those little jars of paint!

I tried to give it a bit of depth and sparkle with layering, Glossy Accents, Kindy Glitz and Rhinestones. The embossed background is Cuttlebug Swiss Dots.

This card is an entry into the following challenges -

Alphabet Challenge - K is for Kids (A kids birthday card) -

Crafty Angels - Can you feel it? Textures -
(embossing, ribbon, layering, rhinestones, glossy accents, Kindy Glitz)

Crafty Creations Challenge #50 - Textures (at least 3)
(embossing, ribbon, layering, rhinestones, glossy accents, Kindy Glitz)

Crazy 4 Challenges - Birthday

Cupcake Challenge #73 - Going Girly

Cute Card Thursday Challenge #94 - New
(New ribbon, new digi stamp, new life with the eggs and chicks, new year for a birthday)

Your Next Stamp - Embossing

Digital Tuesday Challenge #41 - Embossing

Incy Wincy Challenge #25 - Sweet Treats
(Yummy cupcakes, candy eggs in basket)

The Pink Elephant Challenge #49 - Birthday **

Clearly Delightful - Bunny Rabbits

There She Goes Challenge - At least 3 Embellishments
(Ribbon, rhinestone, Glossy Accents, Kindy Glitz)

Phindy's Place Challenge - Try something new -(January 25th)
(Trying new techniques)

Going Green - Recycling Cards

2010-01-12T18:40:00.001-08:00

Christmas cards in January! Am I late or early?

Bah Humbug is the latest Chrismas card challenge blog. The idea is not to wait till the last minute with cards, but to make them through the year. Sounds like a good idea.

Recycling
This ribbon was my mother's. Every Christmas it was reused and recycled with family gifts, then saved again for the next year. Now that she is no longer with us, it seemed time to pass it on in a more permanent form.

So this card is for another family member as a tip of the hat to my mother, who also loved penguins. The penguin is a digital stamp from Shirley's 2 Girls coloured with markers with a bit of KindyGlitz for sparkle.

The background is an old page from my watercolour scratch pad which had random paint on it. The Jingle Bells music has been "aged" with a tea bag.

It's a simple card, but I think to lift it, if I did it again, I would also emboss the background. Embossing comes up really well on watercolour paper.

This card is my entry into the following challenges -

Bah Humbug - Recycle

Rainbow Lady's Challenge - Recycle (2nd card for this challenge)

Also, check out my first card (Black & White with 3D Flower) for this recycling challenge. Lots of recycling happening at the moment!

Glue Scissors Paper - Going Green (Recycling) -

Taylord Concepts Blogoversary Candy -

2010-01-12T18:09:00.001-08:00

Papercraft bloggers seem to have a lot to celebrate lately. And Erika at Taylord Concepts is no exception.

She is celebrating her 1st Blogoversary. This pic is just one of 3 on her site, showing all the amazing candy on offer. Lots of it!!!

The candy closes on January 31st. Hop on over there to find out all the low down on how you can win these yummy goodies.

Take a while to look around the Taylord Concepts site while you're there too, it's quite inspirational. Erika is a talented designer, and has lots to share.

The Craft Barn - New Blog & Blog Candy

2010-01-11T19:10:00.003-08:00

The Craft Barn is a U.K. based craft store.

It was nominated for Best Independent store for the South of England in the 2009 Craft Awards. And now they have a brand new blog.

To celebrate, they're offering 3, yes that's 3, £10 vouchers for participants to win. The candy is up for grabs until January 13th. More details at the blog candy post.

There are some beautiful cards to see there, showcasing some of their products. Very nice!

Vintage Ruffly Print Button Flowers - Video

2010-01-11T05:05:00.000-08:00

I had such fun doing the 3D flower on my black and white cuttlebug card. So I was delighted to come across this video from Dawn McVey at Raspberrry Suite.

Use 5 or 6 layers of vintage print keeping the last layer relatively flat - at least flatter than the rest which should all be scrunched up. There's a button on top of all the layers. Check out the video and Dawn's blog for more pics and all the details.

I'm going to give these a try. How about you?

Black & White Card With 3D Flower

2010-01-10T20:14:00.000-08:00

Black and white is a stunning combination.

I've never done a sketch challenge before, so this card is my first adventure playing with the big kids!

I'm really happy with how it turned out, especially using the textures to add interest to a limited colour pallette. It was also a good reminder to play a bit more with black and white in the future.

All the patterns and the flower are digital elements from the wonderfullly talented Jak Heath at Crafter's Kitchen.

Cuttlebug Crazy
I printed these and cuttlebugged everything, except for the ribbon. Not sure if you can even cuttlebug ribbon? Even the flower petals are cuttlebugged with the Swiss Dots folder. The damask background is cuttlebugged with the Ornamental Iron folder.

Recycling
As it was all bits and pieces, it was a good opportunity to use my scraps and the backs of other projects, so a bit of recycling in action here.

Layering
Each layer of flower petals is layered with 3D mounting tape, including the centre. The idea was to lift it off the card a bit. I figured giving it a dimensional effect would help it stand out, and not get "camouflauged" and lost in with all the other black and white. The flower petals were curled to enhance the 3D look.

This card is my entry into the following challenges -

Tuesday Taggers - Black & White

Think Ink Tuesday Challenge #11 - Monochromatic Card

Rainbow Lady's Challenge #85 - Recycle

Rosie Dee's InStyle Stamps Sketch Challenge

2 Red Bananas - Banana Split Challenge - Think Round
(Polka Dots, Swiss Dots Embossing & Curved Petals)

Cute Daisy May - Flower & Ribbon

Our Creative Corner - 3D (Flower)

Black & White and a Splash Of Colour For Valentines Day

2010-01-10T03:37:00.000-08:00

Black and white is such an elegant combination.

Add a touch of colour, and it gives it a new dimension. A liberal splash of colour and it looks different again. I'm fascinated by the different effects different shades and different colours give, so this was an interesting challenge.

Both digital images are from Lily Boos Boutique. It's quite a plain, simple card with a lot of white, so it needed a bit of a lift. I edged the pink at the top with a Fiskars Threading Water Punch.

I used the Swiss Dots Cuttlebug embossing folder and a pink flower rhinestone to add some texture in the absence of a lot of colour. I've also added Swiss Dots to the Love sentiment since this photo, which I think adds to it.

There is also just the tiniest hint of Kindy Glitz for sparkle on the flower centres. The Love sentiment is raised with mounting tape.

This card is my entry in the following challenges -

Crafty Creations - Black & white with a splash of colour

Spoonful of Sugar - Hearts

Digital Tuesday - Valentine

Cute Daisy May - Love

No Time To Stamp - Love Is In The Air

Lily Boo Too - Valentine

Belli Challenge #82 - Glitter or Rhinestones

Magnolia Valentine Blog Candy -

2010-01-09T22:28:00.001-08:00

This latest collection of Magnolia stamps are super cute. And they could be yours if you want to play.

Head over to Inked Inspirations, to find out more. You need to become a follower, advertise the giveaway on your blog and add a comment on the blog candy post... easy peasy!

The candy is up for grabs till January 25th. Good luck!

Happy Birthday Card Challenge

2010-01-09T06:22:00.001-08:00

The bright pink background on this Happy Birthday card is embossed with the Cuttlebug Spots and Dots folder.

The yummy image is from Mo's Digital Pencil and is mounted with 3D tape. The Happy Birthday sentiment is also a digital image. It's from Wendy Made and is layered with punched scalloped circles. And for a bit of sparkle, there's Kindy Glitz on the outside of the scallops.

The images were coloured using watercolours and Twinkling H2O's. The whipped cream was done with Glossy Accents to give a raised effect.

This card is my entry into the following card challenges -

Mo's Digital Pencil Challenge 13 - Happy Birthday

Crazy For Challenges - Happy Birthday

Quixotic Challenges - Hot Chocolate

Simon Says Stamp - Hot Chocolate

Your Next Stamp - Embossing

AiFactory - Embossing

Rosie Dee's Challenge #60 - Free Choice

Crafty Calendar Challenge - Keeping Warm **

Crafty Catz Weekly - Bright & Sparkly

One Stop Craft Challenge #62 - Breakfast At Tiffany's

Charisma Cards - Pink, Brown, Cream and Toffee

Charisma Cards Challenge - A Question From A Beginner
As a beginner to colour combo challenges, I'm not sure if you can ONLY use the colours stated, or whether the idea is to include those colours, so not sure if this one qualifies. I've added blue as well as these colours.

Maybe someone can give me the heads up on this... Thanks! Apologies if I've taken the wrong approach!

Soul Of The Rose Card

2010-01-08T02:32:00.000-08:00

As a beginner, it hasn't taken me long to see that it's not just about making cards - but about learning some photography tips as well, so apologies in advance. I'll try natural light next time! Lots to learn...

This image is Soul of The Rose. It's an image in the public domain which I downloaded for another art project I never finished. I've recycled it to use the image here.

I used Twinkling H2O highlights, to add a bit of colour and glimmer. I do love my Twinkling H2O's! I still wanted to keep the old fashioned black and white photo effect, so didn't colour all of the image.

I've layered the image onto card and distressed the edges. Gold mirror card has been layered onto a purple background embossed with the Cuttlebug. Gold cord on ribbon is a favourite embellishment of mine as it seems to "lift" a card. It seems to add that extra touch. For a bit of extra bling, I've added 3 purple rhinestones too.

This is my entry into the following card challenges -

Corrosive Challenge Blog - 2 Favourite Embellishments -

Incy Wincy Designs Challenge #24 - Bling It Up

Crafty Angels - Recycle -

Creative Card Crew Challenge #42 - Distressing -

Fab 'n Funky Challenges - Anything for any Occasion -

My Grafico - Out With The Old - In With The New

Flutterby Little Butterfly - Card Challenges

2010-01-07T02:23:00.000-08:00

This card has such a lovely sentiment from Maya Angelou.

We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.

It's perfect for new life and new beginings, as well as thinking about the passage of time and change. To me, the theme of the card and the pink, white and black color combo, also has a sense of freshness, growth and renewal.

At the beginning of a new year, traditionally a "fresh start", this card is a reminder to me to "not to sweat the small stuff" and enjoy the moment more. My goal this year is to have more fun... more fun time with the family, and more fun time for me... and yes, that includes lots of cardmaking!

I've cuttlebugged my little heart out, and used my new Paisley Cuttlebug Folder as well as one of my favourites - Divine Swirls. There is also quite a lot of layering, including the butterfly's wings, which were then painted with Twinkling H2O's.

This butterfly card is my entry for the following card challenges -

ABC Challenge - L is for Layering -

Flutterby Wednesday - New

Little Paper Shop - Let's have a bright challenge - bright pink, black & white

Sophisticat Challenge #16 - Fancy borders

Gingersnap Creations Challenge #37 - Time -

Whimsical Wednesday - Make Up Inspiration -

Cute Card Thursday - New -

Papertake Weekly - New Beginnings -

Three Clovers Design - New Years Resolutions -

Everybody Art Challenge #72 - Favorite Color Combo

Stamp Kissing Videos

2010-01-05T14:31:00.000-08:00

This is a great video on Stamp Kissing from Tresa Black, the Stamp Goddess. I learned all sorts of new ways to use this technique.

Basically, you stamp up a solid or silhouette stamp, and then stamp the actual stamp with an inked patterned stamp. That's just a starting point. There are lots of other ways and variations on those to use stamp kissing in your card making.

Great effects! I'm going to have to get me some silhouette stamps and try these out.

Do you have cards with stamp kissing? Feel free to leave me a link in the comments, and I'll hop over to your blog to visit and check them out.

For more inspiration from Tresa, visit her at Fabulously Artsy. Thanks Tresa. I love this technique and can't wait to play.

And another one from Skipping Stone Design. They have a great range of funky, sassy stamps.

Quixotic Paperie Giveaway & A Favourite Card -

2010-01-04T03:22:00.000-08:00

Have you seen the Quixotic Paperie Blog Happy New Year Candy Giveaway? They're offering a Mystery Pack of goodies worth approx £40.

My Personal Favourite 2009 Card
They've also asked each of us to show our favourite of all the cards we made in 2009. I haven't posted it before, but looking back over 2009, below is my own personal favourite.

I was very happy with how it turned out. It's elegant, while still being quite understated. I like the combination of the soft pink edges with the black and white.

I also like the personal touch of including someone's initial as a monogram. I made these as sets of notecards. Now, I just have to get to and study those tutorials to make a gift card holder to make them extra special.

Like A Kid In A Candy Shop - Blog Candy -

2010-01-03T22:03:00.000-08:00

Jude at Crafts International is having a birthday on January 6th. What better excuse for a party and you're all invited. Join in the fun and be in with a chance to win all that birthday blog candy.

Check out what's up for grabs. I'm like a kid in a candy store, just looking at it. There's everything from flowers, embellishments and ribbons to a heat gun and stamps and more. And it could be yours!

For all the low down on how to win and more details about what's on offer, visit Jude's. Hurry on over as it closes January 6th.

Thank You Card For All Of You - In Lemon & Lime

2010-01-03T17:01:00.000-08:00

With Paper Flourish being just a brand new blog, I've been thrilled to have you all visit and comment. It's also been fun to explore all your blogs and be inspired... such talent and innovative ideas!

This card is my Thank You to all of you in blog land who love paper crafts, cards and ink and who have given me such a warm welcome and continue to inspire me. The digi image is from the wonderfully talented Chris at The Sketching Stamper.

I double layered some of the flowers, the heart and the vase. Flowers and gold highlights on the vase are coloured with Twinkling H2O's. The flower centres are gold Kindyglitz and the edged borders are done with the Fiskars threading water punch.

This is also my entry for some great card challenges -

Colour Create - Lemon & Lime
I even managed to include the optional flowers they asked for.

Bee Crafty Challenge #21 - Thank You using a digi image

C.R.A.F.T. Challenge #31 - Thank You

Magical Crafts Challenge #5 - Thank You

Pile It On Challenge #29 - Anything Digital -

Celebrations and A Blog Hop - Let's Party

2010-01-03T15:56:00.000-08:00

This little teddy bear is still in the party mood after Christmas and is off to a birthday party.

We've just had Christmas but New Year and new beginnings are also cause for celebration. I have much to look forward to and celebrate this year.... some big and some small and maybe even an excuse for a party or two.

Charisma Cardz are also celebrating. They're having a big first birthday bash with a fantastic blog hop and lots of candy. It was my first blog hop looking for secret words and it was lots of fun.

Each design team member also has blog candy. Take a look at the yummy blog candy on Sally's blog.

What Do You Think? Any Tips Appreciated
My tripod broke as I was taking the photo, so the photo is a bit wonky and a bit dark. What's the best way you find to take consistent photos for your blog, or do you prefer to scan? Any tips would be most welcome.

I played around with my Spots and Dots cuttlebug folder to do partial embossing.... just for borders. And of course, the teddy got a splish and a splosh with my beloved Twinkling H2O's.

This card is my entry for

Charisma Cardz Celebrations Challenge

Simon Says Stamp - Party Challenge

One Stop Craft Challenge - Something starting with a "B"
(B for bear and B for birthday)

Creative Card Crew Challenge #41 - Anything Goes

Stamptacular Sunday Challenge #40 - Party

Cupcake Craft Challenge #71 - A Time For Celebration

Three Clovers Challenge #45 - Celebration