iRene's Card Spot

The Last One

2012-01-23T08:50:00.011Z

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Totally digital and using Crafty Ann's gorgeous gold border from the Sweet Sage collection, one of three scrapbook collections Ann has recently added to her digi shop. Ideal for cards as well as scrapbook's :-)

This is a poor pic taken in poor light and it is a shame it doesn't do the border justice. It is a marvellous bright gold IRL.

Challenge
Birthday Sundaes #40 - birthday wording on the front

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Another for Grandson

2012-01-22T20:13:00.002Z

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Only one more to go :-)

This is a biggy - A4 size. Thought it gotta be BIG as it is from Mum & Dad.

The numbers and 'son' at the bottom were made in the same way as those in my previous post - only bigger!
I also used a sketch and then missed the deadline, duh

I heat embossed a copper border on the three pieces below. The main BP distressed with DI.
Sentiment computer generated.
The red striped panel and the numbers are fixed with foam tape/pads.

Challenges
Here Come the Boys #18 sketch - shame I missed the challenge, it is a nice sketch
Just Some Lines - colour challenge - haberdashery hues
The Crafty Pad #154 - let's see something for the boys
Joanna Sheen - celebrations

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Grandson's 18th

2012-01-21T17:31:00.002Z

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One down - two to go.
We will have a family get together on Tues to celebrate the big day and again on Saturday at the local pub.
He doesn't like to be the centre of attention so he doesn't want a party. He is saving hard for a car, which he could afford right now - BUT - it is the insurance that is crippling.. With this in mind he will be getting money for his birthday ;-)
His first driving test is on Thursday so we are all keeping our fingers crossed for him. He has got next week off work so I hope he'll be able to get in some extra driving practice.

I printed the reversed numbers on the back of a piece of card, then heat embossed on the front with silver EP. I put this through the CB then cut the numbers out. I used the metallic rub again to take off the shine then embossed the edges with verdigris EP.
Two oval mats here - corrugated card dabbed with a copper ink pad and a larger piece cut around with fancy scissors in a paper from the Papermania Aqua PP - a bargain buy at Colemans Wharehouse sale - £2.99 for 30 sheets :-)
The main BP is Gina Miller Boy Blues. I particularly like this deep turquoise colour and it is fortunate the two compliment each other. I forget where the lighter coloured paper is from.

I have used the same BP for the inside

Additions
Burlap strip from Linda, Funky Junkie
Brads embossed with verdigris EP - love how these turned out
Spellbinders Fleur de Lis Shapeailities

Challenges
CRAFT #138 - use numbers - happy to add that this was one of the winners for this challenge :)
Crafty Cardmakers #59 - no floral embellishments
Shopping our Stash #35 - create a border
The ABC challenge - H is for Happy Birthday
Gingerloft #31 - anything goes
OSAAT #96 - anything goes

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

What's New Pussycat - CACB #57

2012-01-20T00:30:00.008Z

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Crafty Ann's Challenge #57

Share a new technique you've learned or some new stash you got during the festivities.

My new stash is Starburst Stains I was lucky enough to win in a recent challenge and and a new TH distress ink pad, frayed burlap.
I also tried something new - see below *
I have used part of the music collage 3 digi from Crafty Ann's shop. I made two prints on canvas paper, coloured the roses and leaves with starburst stains on one, cut them out and added them to the first print with silicone to add some dimension.

The small piece of BP is polished stone, from the shop, words are a Penny Black stamp and the corner flourish came with a wood mounted alphabet set I bought many years ago.

The flowers look lovely with this beautiful iridescent sheen. The roses and leaves DO stand out from the card although you can't see it here.

* I embossed a well washed GU key lime pie lid, die cut the flourish and then 'coloured' it with some metallic rub-on stuff.

Other additions
Seam binding ribbon
Lace
Bling
Punched butterfly

We'd love to see your new stash or a new technique so come along and join us for this challenge.
As always, the DT have some beautiful work to show you, so please pop over to the challenge blog and check them out.

I'd like to enter this for the following challenges
CLP #43- sketch
Scrappy Frogs - lace
Let's Craft & Create #36 - butterflies
Anything Goes #58 - anything goes :-)
Lexi's #56 - anything goes

Thank you for stopping by today and for all the lovely comments left on recent posts - every one is very much appreciated

Cheers me dears :-)

x

My Sister is 65!

2012-01-16T13:49:00.000Z

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Oooer! little sis will be 65 next week.
She has 5 grandsons and last week became grandma to twin girls - wonderful - I am so happy for them all.

The BP is from my new Papermania Sunshine pack gold embossed generously around the edges.
The die cut in gold mirri is Fleur de Lis shapeability - my favourite at the moment :-)

Handmade stick pin and flower, a bit of tulle and I HAD to put the important number on, didn't I LOL

I 'painted' the flower with 3D gloss - easier than using UTEE - but still gives a similar finish

Challenges
Sketch Saturday #190 - sketch!
Phindy's #88 - tic tac toe - pearls, ribbon, flower
The ABC Challenge - H is for Happy Birthday
Incy Wincy #129 - bold & bright

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Twins!!!

2012-01-15T12:06:00.002Z

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Some lovely news....my niece has had twin girls....TWO little sisters for big brothers Louis and Ronnie.

I have slightly 'aged' the image and framed it with a circle cut with two nesties. The sentiment was made in Publisher and framed the same as the image.

All papers are from my hoarded stash....my new year promise is to use up my stash. I dyed the beautiful lace with diluted frayed burlap DI to go with the sepia image..it is not as dark as it looks here

I am getting reckless and have used some more silk ribbon....but then this is a special card :-)
There is a small scrap of muslin underneath the bow then I finished it with a couple of roses from WOC.

Challenges
Mojo Monday #223 - sketch
WOC #40 - anything goes
Ooh La La #96 - new beginnings

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Granddaughter's 16th

2012-01-14T09:53:00.001Z

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Oh gosh!! my lovely granddaughter is 16 on Monday - it is scary how the years have flown.
DD is taking her to see Strictly Come Dancing in London as a birthday treat which explains the BG paper. I made this from an image - courtesy of Google - in my graphics prog.
I hand cut a star and mounted it on to some silver mirri with foam tape - the star sentiment is also popped up with foam pads.

I got an 'interesting' mottled effect on the silver mirri by running it through the CB with some sandpaper.

I had to give her some flowers and sparkle. The flower is made from some of the many die-cuts kindly given to me by my friend Kym when we met up last Saturday and the rest from WOC.
I cut and glittered the flourish some time ago for another project and it didn't suit - fortunately it is just right for this one. Shame the sparkle on the flowers doesn't show here.

Challenges
C4C119 - monochromatic in the blues
Alphabet - Y is for - you can choose
Anything Goes #58 - anything goes
CRAFT #137 - celebration
Dream Valley # 23 - anything goes
Kaboodle #101 - celebration
Saturday Challenge #168 - anything goes with blue
Lexi's # 56 - anything goes

Thank you for stopping by and the lovely comments left on my previous posts :-)
Cheers me dears

x

A Fairy Happy Birthday

2012-01-08T00:50:00.000Z

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Another card for granddaughter.
I've no idea where the BP came from, I found it in my 'purple paper' folder and thought it just the job for this card as the colours match the sweet LOTV image.

A fairy needs some sparkle on her wings

Challenges
Sketch N Stash #78 - sketch
Crafting for All Seasons #17 - fairies
Creatalicious #29 - colour challenge - purple, green, pink, white
Delightful Challenges - have a heart
Fussy and Fancy - happy birthday (or animal print)
Incy Wincy #127 - anything goes
Kaboodle #100 - celebrate
Let's Craft & Create #35 - anything goes
Papertake - anything goes

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Thank You

2012-01-07T23:44:00.001Z

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This is the thank you card for grandson's school. I was invited to the Christmas party for wrinklies :-) and enjoyed a pleasant and entertaining afternoon.

This was really quick n easy.
The papers are last years freebies from a craft mag - I think they are very pretty.

Simply embellished with gold satin ribbon, a gold embossed scroll and my last pointsettia.

Challenges
Christmas Card Challenge #5 - thank you's
(Christmas) Card Throwdown #1 - sketch
CRAFT #136 - thank you

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Let's Think Hot - CACB #56

2012-01-06T00:30:00.004Z

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Crafty Ann's Challenge #56

The first challenge for 2012 is

Let's Think Hot!

Hot colours, summery images etc - let's escape the winter for a little while.

It is my granddaughter's birthday soon and I've combined her card with my DT card.

I so love the metallic range - which can be found here in the digi shop, and used one of the frames as the focal point.

I made two prints and layered the top one over the gold ribbon with small pieces of foam pad. This is layered on to a mat from the funky collection.

The backing paper is textured with a cuttlebug embossing folder - the name of which escapes me at the moment - with gold embossing around the edges.
All this gold and red makes it look real lush :-)

The metallic frame looks lovely with the gold lacy ribbon. The adornment is a triple bow of seam binding ribbon, a large gold and pearl button, home made stick pin and glamour dusted heart and....a flower.

We look forward to you playing along with us for this challenge - the DT have created some lovely designs for your inspiration over on the Challenge Blog so do pop over and have a looksee.

I'd also like to enter the following challenges
OSAAT #94 - use a digi
Stampalot - monochromatic
Through the Craftroom Door #17 - monochromatic
The Craft Garden - monochromatic

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears :-)

x

90th Birthday

2012-01-04T15:09:00.000Z

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This is for my sister's MIL who lives round the corner from me. It is really hard to believe she will be 90 in a couple of weeks - anyone would think she is at least 10 years younger. I nearly said 20 years but that is too near to my age, rofl.

The patterned papers are from the papermania Rose Garden pad...again - the stripe I made myself
The wire edged creased ribbon is actually a lovely champagne colour

I added two spellbinders shapeabilities corner flourishes to the sentiment to tart it up a bit. Made a stick pin and used my new butterfly punch.
Eeeek, I even used some more of the gorgeous silk ribbon for the bow.

Challenges
Mojo Monday #222 - sketch
Alphabet CB - X for Xtra special occasion
Joanna Sheen #2 - celebrations
Kaboodle #100 - let's celebrate
Flutter by Wednesday #184 - open
The Shabby Tea Room #95 - time flies - inspiration photo + use something with wings

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Bi-plane Birthday

2012-01-03T23:47:00.000Z

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This card is for my brother in law. 2011 was such a tragic year for him and my SIL - 2012 can't be any worse for them.

The background is from an old encyclopedia, liberally distressed with TH vintage photo - as was the edges of the striped paper. I cut a star from a piece of left over music paper and went over this with old paper DI then matted it on to silver mirri.
The circle sentiment was made in Publisher and I attached it to some strands of thick cotton thread - or is it thin string :-) dyed with stonewashed alcohol ink

The bi-plane image is a freebie from lovely Paulette at Create with TLC.

A great image for male cards. I have used it before but this time I printed it on canvas paper and added a little colour.
I am chuffed that Paulette approved of my efforts and has showed both cards on her TLC blog

Challenges

Cards for Men #1 - recycling (book page)

Tuesday Throwdown #79 - use something shiny

Top Tip Tuesday #67 - anything goes

The Saturday Challenge #166 - anything goes

The ABC Challenge - G is for green ( recycling) book page

PIO #1 - anything goes

OSAAT #94 - use a digi

MAWTT - step back in time

Let's Craft & Create #35 anything goes

Thank you for stopping by

Cheers me dears :-)

New Year....New Baby

2012-01-01T14:27:00.003Z

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Happy New Year

to all my lovely followers and blogging friends.

Wishing you all that you wish for yourself in 2012...and more.

A commission from the proud grandparents.

I gritted my teeth and forced myself to use some of this gorgeous silk ribbon from Linda, Funky Junkie's Etsy shop. I am such a cheapskate, so this is definitely only for very special cards.

The BP is from the Papermania Rose Garden pack

Die cut printed sentiment edged with glamour dust

Roses from WOC

I recoloured a heart stick pinto match the ribbon, added a tiny bit of net and punched leaves

Challenges
Allsorts #135 - new beginnings
By the Cute and Girly - new beginnings
Crafter's Companion #19 - new beginnings
Bearly Mine #26 - anything goes
Charisma #50 - anything goes
Crafts and Me #66 - anything goes
Crafty Inspirations #143 - anything goes
Let's Craft & Create # 35 - anything goes
Shopping our Stash #32 - tie it up
Rainbow Lady #185 - your choice
The Paper Shelter - tie a bow
Top Tip Tuesday #66 - anything goes

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Made by Lucy, aged 8

2011-12-20T08:02:00.001Z

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I just had to show you this wonderful card I received from my friend Pat.
This was made by her granddaughter Lucy, aged 8.

I am so impressed with it - it is so well made and definitely deserves praise and encouragement.
Her family have commissioned cards made by her to send out this year and if this one is anything to go by the recipients will all be as impressed as I am.

Well done, Lucy :-)

What do you think of Lucy's card? Maybe you would like to leave a message for her - she would be one happy little girl :-)

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

16th Birthday

2011-12-09T23:44:00.000Z

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Commissioned by DIL for her niece

Image - Charmed Cards
BP's - free in September's Making Cards mag
Ribbon with silver edging from cheapo store 2yrs ago
Flower reassembled with a Laura Ashley brad

Challenge
Sketch n Stash #76
Totally Papercrafts #96 - anything but Christmas
Cute Card Thursday #194 - anything goes
Stampavie & More #157 - easel cards

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

With Love

2011-12-04T21:08:00.003Z

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8" square - A commission from my niece for her fiance.

I've really enjoyed making this. It took me a while to decide on the papers and finally went for these from the Fathers and Fedoras kit by Summer Driggs.

The inspiration for this was influenced by ..... a challenge sketch from here (this is not near enough to enter) and here + a design by Sue of Particraft fame + the gorgeous gold panel by Linda the Funky Junkie.
I got really mucky with DI's and ink pads and I only just managed to save my kitchen worktop from ending up gold embossed, lol.

I hand cut a hole in the top layer by cutting round the inside of a nestie circle - the ring is also cut from the same set. The paper was rather flimsy so I stuck it to some card to give it some substance. This layer is popped up with foam tape.

I made the gold panel inside the hole by inking up a circle, embossing it with gold EP, further dry embossing with the texture folder and finally ageing it with copper and black ink pads until I was satisfied with the result. Actually I was very proud of it and then went and covered it up with the sentiment. This was made as usual in Publisher.

Men's cards can be awkward to embellish and I didn't want to go OTT. I hope you think what I have done suits this
I grunged up TH flourish die, and added a brad with the fiance's initial - chunky gold thread.- a square of burlap and the brown rose...I hope he doesn't think that is too sissy, lol.

Another view

Challenges
Crafty Cardmakers #57 - heat embossing - Proud to say this card was chosen as winner!!
The ABC Challenge - E is for embossing
The Paper Shelter #42 - anything goes
PCJ - anything goes
Lexi's #54 - one for the lads
DYSU #48 - ribbon or anything you can tie
Allsorts #132 - going round in circles
Penny Black - december challenge - happy birthday

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

First Birthday

2011-12-03T23:50:00.001Z

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It is a relief to be back in business. I was unable to get into my graphics programme and have had to buy a new version which arrived today, Saturday. I was getting right miffed that it took so long to get here - I ordered on Monday!!!!

I have, at long last, got some LOTV images - hooray. I took advantage of the sale and stocked up with die-cut images.

This sweet image is just right for this First Birthday card. The number 1 is handcut out of some free paper and matted on to mirri card. The same with the image.

The BP is a freebie too then I just added a little bit of ribbon and the computer generated sentiment

Challenges
Cute Card Thursday #193 - it's just a number
A Gem of a Challenge #35 - monochromatic
CCC - monochromatic
Diva's by Design #16 - anything goes
DYSU #48 - ribbon
Fab 'n' Funky #101 - anything goes
LOTV #123 - anything but a Christmas card
The Paper Shelter #42 - anything goes
PIO #48 - sugar and spice

Thank you for stopping by and the lovely comments
Cheers me dears

x

Tic Tac Toe at Crafty Ann's

2011-12-02T00:30:00.010Z

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Crafty Ann's Challenge #55

Christmas Tic Tac Toe
~ any line across, down or diagonally ~

I chose 3 down - ribbon & bow, bauble and gold - nice combination :-)

The plain white BG paper is embossed with CB snowflakes folder and I had to distress the edges of course, lol.

The frame and bauble, both from Ann's metallic collection,

Finished with an extravagant organza bow and glittered punched snowflakes.

Other challenges I'd like to enter

Just Some Lines - tic tac toe - embossing, ribbon, punch

Digi Stamps 4 Joy #33 - merry christmas - no animals

Gingerloft #30 - Christmas and winter

Southern Girls #33 - ribbon madness

Diva's by Design #16 - anything goes

Fab 'n' Funky #101 - anything goes

Joanna Sheen #1 - Christmas wishes

The ABC Challenge - E is for embossing

DYSU #48 - ribbon or anything you can tie

PCJ - anything goes

CYP #86 - tis the season

Thank you for stopping by - I hope you will be able to play along with us for Crafty Ann's Tic Tac Toe Challenge this fortnight. The DT have some beautiful inspiration for you over on the challenge blog. We're all looking forward to seeing what you choose

Cheers me dears :-)

Retirement

2011-11-27T17:59:00.003Z

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8" square

This was commissioned by the friend I made the card for in the post below. The big day is not until mid December so I still have plenty of time to do my card for her.
I used a sketch for this but, what a divvy, I can't remember where from, duh!

The fashion images are a selection from the All Dressed up CD which I won from an Ooh La La challenge.
I chose this CD as I new it would be very useful
Jean's retirement list is what we think she will be doing now that she has time to herself.

Handmade flower. I made the background with cosmic shimmer mists - bronze blush & bilberry crush and sprayed over with glimmer mist which resulted in a lovely golden sheen which doesn't show in the pic.
I put the paper through a CB folder before I cut out the flower to add a bit of interest
I would like to get some more cosmic shimmer mists but I have such trouble with them. They are lovely but after a few uses the sprayer packed in and I ended up dabbing the colours on to the paper. Very messy but a nice result .

This is what I put on the box, lol. There is a reference to witches on the insert - requested by the friend who commissioned the card :-)

Other stuff
Gorgeous lace from Linda, Funky Junkie's Etsy store
Flowers from Wild Orchid Crafts
Corner cut from gold mirri card
Handmade stick pin
Die cut circles
Ribbon and feather from stash

Challenges
Bearly Mine #24 - all my favourite things - flowers, lace, ribbon, pearls
Alphabet Challenge - V for very vibrant
CYDA #34 - buttons or bows
Crafts & Me #62 - shabby chic/vintage
MAWTT - ribbons & bows
OLLCB #93 - bingo - pearls, flowers,lace
PCJ #17 - anything goes

Thank you for stopping by today
Cheers me dears :-)

x

Take it easy

2011-11-23T21:09:00.001Z

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For a friend who retires at the end of the month

Main BP - Crafty Ann's pale brown from the Polished Stone collection, overstamped with
Script stamp by Prima from Joanna Sheen
Rose Pink silk ribbon - Linda, Funky Junkie's Etsy shop
Pearls - MeiFlower
Aster daisy - Wild Orchid
Image -origin unknown
All words computer generated
Tag cut with the smallest scallop oval nestie and hung with
Gold thread

Challenges
Penny's PCC #67 - tie it on (the tiny 'enjoy' tag)
Anything Goes # 54 - a real sweetie
OSAAT #89 - anything goes

Thank you for stopping by and for your lovely comments
Cheers me dears :-)

x

Wrestling for Grandson

2011-11-21T22:21:00.000Z

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Gone are the days of Ballamorie, Spongebob and Ben 10 - now he is mad on wrestling and this is his favourite wrestler, John Cena :-/

I've gone entirely digital for these three cards.
These were not all that quick to make - it took some time to compose them in Serif PPx2. I then printed on to photo paper. Only one layer - neat!

This one is from Mum & Dad - I personalised a medallion - big eh, the original was the same size - must be made of plastic, lol

This is from my DD, his aunty and family.

This one from us, grandma & Grandad - I made the background with a WWF logo to keep with this years theme/fad

Challenges
Allsorts #130 - one layer card
OSAAT #89 - anything goes
Paperminutes #191 - childrens birthday

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

8th Birthday

2011-11-21T09:59:00.000Z

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BP - free from crafting mag
Stamped flowers embossed with seafoam EP
Glittered strip with narrow ribbon
Computer generated sentiment

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

75th Birthday

2011-11-19T08:26:00.000Z

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Comission from my neighbour for her dad's 75th birthday

Handmade sentiment circle well distressed with vintage photo and cut around with pinking shears.
I went over some parts with gold pentouch. The diecut numbers fixed to the star cut from a stencil

Challenge
Bearly Mine #23 - one for the boyz
Craft Challenge #129 - stars in your eyes

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

Crafty Ann's Challenge #54

2011-11-18T00:30:00.007Z

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Crafty Ann's Challenge #54

Sketch and/or monochrome

Apologies for the short post but I've had major computer problems but I hope they are solved now :-(

I do like to work with a sketch and also like monochrome so I am very happy with this challenge.

The main backing paper is from the funky collection. I used parchment for the four squares and the main image - morning glory and trellis. The four small flowers are traced from the large image and coloured for the first time. I used bryunzeel pencils and alcohol - maybe not the method used by the experienced parchers but I am happy with the result. I added small pearls to the centres of the small flowers and I've defined the four segments with satin ribbon

Close up of the centre panel.

I'd like to enter this into the following challenges -
CYDA #33 - embellishment bingo - peearls, ribbon, flowers

Diva's by Design #15 - monochromatic

I hope you will play along with us and our sketch/monochromatic challenge

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

80th Birthday

2011-11-08T23:41:00.003Z

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A commission for the 80th birthday of a retired headmaster and my 500th post, whoopee :-)

I inked up a page from an old encyclopedia with vintage photo DI and layered it on to BP from For the Record from Raspberry Road. The words at the bottom right are defintions of words to do with education.

I made a calendar and circled the date. I think the 'book' cover was a freebie from Dover but not sure - I removed the title and digitally replaced with the happy birthday message.

The die cut 80 is on a lovely flourishey frame from the shapeabilities fleur de lis accents set.

Challenges
~~Whimsey #13 - monochromatic~~ - missed it!!

Creatalicious #27 - distress your edges
Let's Craft & Create #32 - reduce, reuse, recycle
My Partner in Crafting Crime #35 - use a freebie - book cover and used a page from a book
For Fun Challenges - a very special birthday
CYP #83 - anything goes + brown
Crafty Catz # 107 - anything goes

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

Parchment Lilies

2011-11-06T00:14:00.000Z

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My very poor attempt with parchment. I really must try and get some tuition. There are some excellent online craft tutorials for lots of techniques, but I definitely need a hands on workshop for this parchment craft lark, lol.
I only have the minimum basic tools so that doesn't help, but if/when I improve I'll invest in some more.
The pattern I used was quite small so I had the brilliant idea of scanning it and enlarged it to A5 in my graphics programme - well, I'm pleased that worked :-)
I hope my friend doesn't look too closely to see what a bad job I made of this. I am not happy with it but gave it to her anyway 'cos it took ages and I was doing it especially for her.
The corner looked bare so I added a double organza bow and some stick on pearls to the flourishes.

Challenge
The Corrosive Challenge #136 - use a flourish
Dream Valley #19 - anything goes - 3rd entry
Papertake Weekly - anything goes

This one was less stressful.

And another similar to the one in a previous post

Thank you for stopping by.

Cheers me dears

Flower Frenzy - CACB #53

2011-11-04T00:13:00.001Z

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Crafty Ann's Challenge #53

this fortnight is

Floral Frenzy

For anyone who love flowers this is a super challenge and right up my street :-)

For the main BP I have used the pale brown from the polished stone collection - I LOVE this colour :-)

The flowers are the short petal digi and are made from funky collection 1- and sooo easy to make. My way is to print the digi on to the back of your chosen paper, cut out, go around the edges with an ink pad, shape by curling the petals then layer together and put something pretty in the centre.

The frame is from Ann's metallic collection. I cut out the centre and layered it with silicone over the computer generated sentiment . All these can be found at Ann's digi shop here.

I've used three layers for the flowers and finished off by filling the centres with a liberal helping of cosmic shimmer glitter jewels - just a posh name for chunky glitter, lol.

I made a double bow with this pretty ribbon I found hiding at the bottom of the ribbon drawer. I needed a flourish so glamour dusted this one using the fab TH die. Distressed edges with vintage photo inkpad
Lace from my stash and a bit of bling and voila - a card for DD's friend's birthday tomorrow.

It will be great if you can join in and treat us to a Flower Frenzy because I'm looking forward to seeing your flowery creations.
If you are in need of inspiration go see my DT buddies super designs over at Crafty Ann's Challenge Blog

I'd also like to enter these challenges
The Corrosive Challenge #136 - with a flourish
Crafty Cardmakers #55 - colour combo - pink, brown, cream
Dream Valley #19 - anything goes
Papertake Weekly - anything goes - plus a bit of bling
The Pink Elephant #123 - distressing

Thank you for stopping by and the lovely comments you've taken the time to leave on previous posts.
Cheers me dears :-)

x

Sympathy

2011-11-02T15:34:00.002Z

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Sadly one of many I have to make this week.

Our 36yr old nephew died on Saturday and our friend's son who is also our DD's close friend's husband died on Monday. Two young men in two days :-(

When I have to make one of these sad cards I often use this digi from Pink Petticoat - I love it's simplicity.

The bakers twine is from my gorgeous winnings from the Pretty Little Ribbon Shop, for winning a Charisma Cardz Challenge back in Sept. Not only beautiful ribbons but some buttons and heart pins too - just yummy - thank you so much.

Getting out the stash and making cards can be so therapeutic when you're feeling sad.

Challenges
Charisma Cardz #43 - anything goes
Paper Crafting Journey #22 - use a digi

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

90th Birthday

2011-10-31T14:15:00.002Z

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Commission for a 90th birthday.
I wanted to keep this simple and as it is for a gentleman, NO ribbon and No flowers - but I did manage to find room for a tassel :-)

I made this BP to represent the regimental tie which is broad stripes of navy and silver. I was given photo's of the regimental badge and flags which I scanned and after some digital do-dah-ing made them usable for embellishments.

The badge is two layers - the first layer is printed directly on top of the stripes and the shaped 2nd layer fixed with silicone

I added a number 90 to the flags and matted it onto gold mirri card - this is secured with foam pads.

The scroll is made from some lovely parchment, the type used for certificates.

Challenges
MAWTT #122 - no girls allowed
Crafty Sentiments - no designer paper
OCC - fancy folds
Dream Valley #19 - anything goes

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

New Baby #2

2011-10-28T09:05:00.000+01:00

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Challenges
CES #59 - new beginnings
The Paper Shelter #37 anything goes
Our Creative Corner - fabulous faces
Crafty Ribbons #5 - bingo - punches/dies, flowers, ribbon
Charisma Cardz #43 - anything goes

Same baby - different card!! and as it says on it, it is for the proud 'Nana'.
Another bad pic - I must try and adjust my camera settings to see if I can do better next time.

The heart was cut from a stencil, embossed with texture CB folder then inked the raised pattern. It took a while but I managed to give it a good coat of UTEE
I couldn't find any stripe pattern paper in my stash or digi collections so I made my own - I can do stripes :-)

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

New Baby Boy

2011-10-27T19:10:00.002+01:00

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Challenges
Sketch & Stash #73 - sketch
Charisma Cardz # 43 - anything goes
Crafts & Me #58 - use blue
CES # 59 - new beginnings

I was given the photo of the new baby especially to use on this card. Doesn't he look a little sweetie :-)
I had to amend the sketch from Sketch & Stash to fit this A5 portrait format - but I think it still works.
The only new stash is the wide lace from my local 'button boutique'.

It's a shame I couldn't get a better pic - the blue is much softer IRL

Thank you for stopping by and for the lovely, much appreciated comments on my previous posts.
Cheers me dears

x

70th Birthday Butterflies

2011-10-23T22:40:00.001+01:00

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Challenges
Flutterby Wednesday's #176 - open
The Corrosive Challenge #135 - flying things
Scrappy Frogs - something that flies
Crafts 4 Eternity #42 - use at least one metal embellishment
Crafty Catz #104 - birthday

A commissioned card for a 70th birthday.
The brief was....... a hexagon shape, yellow, flowers and butterflies.
I am pleased that I eventually accomplished the request, as yellow is not a colour I use often so it was a bit of a struggle and so was cutting a hexagon lol.

The digi papers are from For the Record and the goldy colour is an Eva Kipler design. The laser cut butterflies are part of a cupcake wrapper. The Nellie die cut is glamour dusted around the edge and the round sentiment attached with foam pads.
I am happy to use the lovely fleur de lis border again and finished off with a metal MeiFlower butterfly.

I made the sentiment in Serif PPx2 and love the embossed look.

A handmade stick pin and utee'd flower on top of crinoline, net and seam binding ribbon

I used the same Eva Kipler paper, added the butterfly and printed it lighter for the inside

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears :-)

x

X Factor, Man City, Guinness.......

2011-10-22T20:58:00.000+01:00

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...........and even Jerry Springer, LOL

A commission to include all of the above for a leaving card.
You may wonder why Jerry Springer? He is included because his colleagues think the recipient looks like JS's double.

There is quite a bit of digital jiggery pokery involved here. I gave four of them a glass of the black stuff and I love the look on Gary Barlow's face. It looks like he is thinking - Hey! where's mine :-)
Well!! I thought it was funny.

I have really, really tried to get a decent pic but to no avail - this is the best I can do - but you get the idea dontcha.
I've still got problems with my PC - it has taken HOURS to get this post posted, grrrrrrr.

Tentatively entering the following challenges
Cards for Men #21 - make us laugh
OCC - faces

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Crafty Ann's Challenge #52

2011-10-21T00:30:00.004+01:00

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Crafty Ann's Challenge #52

Clean and simple is the theme for this challenge.

I used the CB Swiss dots embossing folder on plain white paper for the background and lightly brushed it around the edges with a gold ink pad . The main image is one of Ann's new metallic butterflies which I coloured digitally and then added this to a simple computer generated mat which is adhered with foam pads.

The pic's really don't so this justice - the gold of the butterfly really shows up in real life.

I hope you will be able to play along with us for this CAS challenge. Inspiration from my DT buddies can be found at Crafty Ann's Challenge Blog so nip over and see all their super creations

Other challenges I'd like to enter
Flutterby Wednesday's #176 - open
Charisma Cardz #42 - embossing

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

A Christmas Song

2011-10-07T00:30:00.011+01:00

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Crafty Ann's Challenge #51

is be inspired by a Christmas song....

.... and mine is "We wish you a Merry Christmas".

I found a bit of information as to the origins of this popular song from a web site

The author and composer of We Wish You a Merry Christmas cannot be traced however it is believed to date back to England in the sixteenth century. The tradition of carollers being given Christmas treats for singing to wealthy members of the community is reflected in this Christmas song.

I've used one of Ann's new poinsettia images fixed on to a snowflake embossed background with foam tape.

This image is quite beautiful on it's own and doesn't need much extra to embellish.......therefore just a small piece of net, a seam binding bow and a tag I feel is all this needs.

I added some glitter to some of the petals though it is difficult to see here.

We hope you will be able to come play along with us at Crafty Ann's and show us your Christmas song creations. If you need inspiration the DT have come up with some beauties.

I'd like to include this in the following challenges
Crafts and Me #55 - use a digi
OSAAT #82 - use a digi
CRAFT #123 - bright colours
Crafty Cardmakers #53 - anything goes
Papertake Weekly - 4th birthday special - anything goes

Thank you so much for stopping by
Cheers me dears :-)

x

17th Birthday

2011-09-28T16:23:00.001+01:00

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Challenges
Anything Goes #50 - anything goes :-)
The Crazy Challenge #86 - 3 colours of your choice - blue, green, pink
Our Creative Corner - numbers

For my neighbour. Her mum happened to mention this morning that it is her daughter's 17th today - oooops, I'd forgotten.

I received this lovely new Fleur de Lis die from Joanna Sheen yesterday so of course I had to use it right away :-)

Don't know why I've included this pic - 'tis a bit blurry but pads out my brief post, lol

Papers from a digi mini kit Calm Comfort by Designs by Shelle
Handmade sentiment circle
Flowers WOC
Punched leaves
Net and muslin from stash

Thank you so much for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

CAS and definitely Quick

2011-09-25T14:01:00.001+01:00

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For my SIL with the following challenges in mind

Alphabet Challenge - Q is for Quick
Crafty Ribbons Challenge #2 - anything goes
Crafty Sentiments - birthday

...CAS? or maybe LIM....anyway it is not my usual style but I've enjoyed making it which is the most important thing..
It was really quick to make, helped by the fact that I'd already made the flower and it was just waiting to be used :-)
White paper simply scored in a diamond pattern, fancy scissors for the wavy edge on DP then scored a border around the 2 joined pieces.

Patterened Paper - Bearly Mine (I think)
Flat back pearls
Seam binding ribbon bow
Handmade tag

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears :-)

x

Around the World with Crafty Ann

2011-09-23T00:30:00.006+01:00

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I've returned from my lovely holiday with a great pile of washing as expected and a horrible sniffly cold which was not expected :-(

Anyway, enough of feeling sorry for myself, I'm back in time to post details of...............

Crafty Ann's Challenge #50

and the theme for this fortnight is

'Around the World'

I've gone oriental and chosen Japan for my part of the world. I've used Ann's cherry blossom, the lotus flower images and this gorgeous blue BP from the funky collection - all available in the digi shop

The images have been arranged digitally, and then coloured with copics. Simply matted with foam pads on to a background embossed with birds and swirls CB folder.

Both mats are edged with gold.

I've added seam binding ribbon, a bow and an oriental charm to finish.

The DT creations are wonderful - as usual - it will be great if you pop over to CACB and see for yourself.

I hope you will get your thinking caps on and join us for this challenge - it will be lovely to see you there.

I'd also like to enter this into the following challenges
Digistamps 4 Joy #28- anything goes
The Paper Shelter #32 - anything goes
Southern Girls #28 - anything goes

Thank you so much for stopping by

Cheers me dears

The Dancer

2011-09-14T10:32:00.003+01:00

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I've scheduled this to post while I am away.... fingers crossed, lol

For the daughter of my daughter's friend.....
She is an excellent dancer, though due to an injury she can't do ballet anymore but concentrates on more modern dance.

BP is from Crafty Ann's funky collection and lightly overstamped with a small flourish

Other papers are from Raspberry Road - For the Record and Pressed in Time
Lots of flowers from WOC
Seam binding ribbon
Number 16 made in Publisher

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

CACB #49

2011-09-09T00:30:00.003+01:00

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You are invited to make yourself uncomfortable for

Crafty Ann's Challenge #49

- step out of your comfort zone by using

a technique or colour combo (or both) that you usually avoid.

Stepper cards are not a favourite of mine because they are a pain to measure and cut and therefore avoided
I made one and found it such a fiddle have not - til now - made another.

The holly wreath and bow is from the precoloured collection. I 'picked' the colour of the BP from the berries and over- printed with a pine branch stamp.

The bow was printed on photo paper and shaped.

The other pet hate is shrink plastic.........and I've used my last piece for the bauble. I did find it easier to bake it in the oven rather than use the heat gun.
To give it a bit of a shine I coated it with 3D gloss.

I hope you will be able to join us for this challenge......pop over to CACB to see what it is all about and how well the DT coped with the challenge :-)

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

Sympathy

2011-09-05T22:07:00.000+01:00

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Sentimental Sundays #71 - sympathy/thinking of you

This is my last post before going on holiday in the early hours of Wednesday.
I am hoping to schedule another post for next week. We shall see :-)

Sadly I've had to make two sympathy cards for neighbours this afternoon .
They are both very simple and and similar in design.

Image - Pink Petticoat
CB swiss dots embossing folder
Ribbon
Flower

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

50th Birthday

2011-09-04T00:28:00.002+01:00

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For my sister in law.......and I won't be able to help her celebrate...I'll be away on holiday.

Inspired by the following challenges

Sweet Sketch Wednesday #117 - sketch

PaperPlay #35 - make your own flowers

CYDA #28 - make your own flowers

MAWTT #114 - handmade flowers

Rainbow Lady #168 - let's emboss it

Fab 'n' Funky #88 - go mad with embossing

Charisma #35 - anything goes

I made a faux silk square for the base

BP's - Raspberry Road - Pressed in Time and the music For the Record
CB Texture embossing folder

Lace

Pearl stick pin, button and flat back pearls

TH flourish die

Flowers made from net and crinoline coloured, with distress ink

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears :-)

x

Christening

2011-09-01T15:40:00.006+01:00

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Made for the following challenges:

Wild Orchid #31 - tags
The Crafty Pad #136 - distressing and tearing
RRR #31 - I got you babe
Mojo Monday #206 - the sketch

I couldn't decide on the BP for this and then remembered the faux silk technique - aka, Sticking crumpled tissue paper on to paper/card stock lol.
An excellent decision I have to say :-) as I didn't want the BP to overpower the image.
I love the look of the 'faux silk' - must use it more often.

Big, squashy WO rose sitting on muslin and net. Yes, only one, I know I'm mean lol.
There is a smidgen of glitter on the window, the pillow and dress though you probably can't see it.

Some lovely seam binding ribbon at the top of the tag and a handmade sentiment circle

Other stuff
Lace from stash
Tag base - Pressed in Time paper from Raspberry Road
Left-over pink BP

I've updated my profile pic, in case you didn't notice, hahaha....the old one was sooo last year.
This one was taken at Knuston Hall open day when I went to see Kym on BH Monday with her charity stall.

Thanks for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Crafty Ann's Challenge #48

2011-08-26T00:30:00.003+01:00

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Crafty Ann's Challenge #48

It'll be all white on the night!

The only colour should be on the main image.

This is the first time I have made a WOW card but once I got started I really enjoyed making it, though I have to admit it was a struggle not to ink any edges, LOL

I chose this gorgeous gold poinsettia with script from Ann's new Metallics collection and matted it on to a glittered Nellie frame.

I used two CB embossing folders - swiss dots and snowflake and seam binding ribbon where the two met. All edges have been well distressed with my trusty metal ruler.

I used the poinsettia flower and leaf as a pattern for the parchment embellies and my new embossing punch for the glittered snowflakes

Added a gem in the flower centres, a greeting ticket and two home made stick pins.

I hope you will be able to join us for this challenge. If you pop over to CACB you'll see the gorgeous creations the DT have come up with for this White on White challenge

I'd also like to enter this for the following challenges:
OLLCB #87 - no backing papers
Charisma #34 - glitter it
Crafting for all Seasons #8 - bingo - ribbon/glitter/flowers
Crazy 4 challenges #101 - bingo - embossing/diecuts/ribbon
Diva's by Design # 9 - Christmas in August
Sweet Stamps #29 - WOW
Tuesday Throwdown #63 - dimension and texture
Crafts for Eternity #33 - flags/tickets/tags
Papertake Weekly - dies to die for
Christmas Card Challenge #38 - glitter

Thank you for stopping by

Cheers me dears

Last of the 60's

2011-08-21T19:49:00.001+01:00

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Challenges
Mojo #204 - sketch
Fussy & Fancy - 1K followers celebration/ use the blog colours
Papertake - bingo - pearls, blooms, other = ribbon
CCC - hand made flowers
Bearly Mine #17 - bring on the bling

I've used my new TH mini flourish die:-)

Hand made UTEE'd flower - others from WO
Hand made sentiment
Purple velvet ribbon
Pearls
Punched leaves
Corner peel-off mounted on to pearly card and then popped up with foam pads

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Jammin'

2011-08-21T13:54:00.003+01:00

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Challenges
Cards for Men #17 - anything goes
Aud Sentiments #35 - anything goes
Anything Goes CB #47 - happy birthday/celebration

One of the 'jammers' at our local C&W night celebrates his 70th birthday 31st Aug - so we will be treated to a buffet and birthday cake as well as some foot tapping music :-)

This is entirely digital - except for the string and brads at the bottom. I've had the brads for yonks and came across them at the bottom of a drawer - I chose the ones with his initials.

I included some of the songs he sings, took a pic as usual and when I went to save the pic I saw that I'd misspelled 'singing' - SINGNING? - Duh.
Correcting the glaring error was a pain 'cos I'd merged all the layers the evening before and unmerging was not an option. I managed by digitally cutting and pasting - I hope you can't see the join!
I already go to Specsavers, LOL.... it's a new brain I need not new 'bins'.

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Crafty Ann's Challenge #47

2011-08-12T00:30:00.004+01:00

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Crafty Ann's Challenge #47

and the challenge this time is...........

Scallops/Fancy Borders

Crafty Ann has produced a stunning new collection - Metallic papers and embellishments - you can find them in the digi shop here.
To celebrate the launch there is a special offer you should check out over in the digi shop.

I have used one of the fabulous frames for my vintage image, one of the short petal flowers and two of the BP's. The blue paper is from the funky collection.

Doesn't this frame look great....the flower too :-) The only other embellies are the seam binding ribbon and some lovely cotton lace and I'm sure you'll recognise the MS scallop border punch.

We all love scallops and fancy borders, don't we lol, and we look forward to seeing what you come up with for this challenge.
Just pop over to CACB to see the beautiful, varied works from the DT.
You will also find out who our lovely new DT buddy is :-)

Additional challenges
Mojo #203 - sketch
ASFOS #162 - happy birthday
Birthday Sundaes #21 - birthday cards
CYDA #26 - birthdays
Diva's by Design #8 - birthday
Let's Craft & Create #25 - go digi
Truly Scrumptious #63 - lace it up

Thank you for stopping by today
Cheers me dears

x

70th Birthday Greetings for my Friend

2011-08-07T20:51:00.002+01:00

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Challenges
Sweet Sketch Wednesday #113 - errr...sketch lol
Papertake - anything goes
CYDA #26 - birthday celebrations
Charisma #31 - bingo - flowers, gems, circles (will an oval do?)
CYP #69 - anything goes
Dream Valley #13 - distressing
Fab'n' Funky #84 - friendship
Raise the Bar #69 - anything goes
Ruby's Rainbow #9 - gems
Sentimental Sundays # 67 - flowers

I am at my DD's again, 'minding the store' and the pup and I have done a lot of finger crossing that I am able to post this from her PC...so if you are reading this....yipppeee :-)

My dear friend Barb will be celebrating her 70th birthday on Tues.
This is a 200mm sq card with matching box.

For such a special birthday I wanted to do something special so I hope she likes this.

I made an 'enamelled' flower with the old dipping in Uttee technique - it is 50mm across and once again as my 'tools' do not include a punch or die of this size I made me own template. I cut the flowers from some paper with music notes but after all the utteeing no one would guess.

Once again a homegrown sentiment, this time stretched to an oval to fit the challenge sketch. Of course it needed bling :-)

Flowered paper from TLC
Monogram added digitally.
Seam binding ribbon
Homemade stick pin
Netting from one of those shower scrunchie thingamabobs - 29p from Home bargains :-)

A closer look at my flower

Thank you for stopping by and for all the much appreciated comments on previous postings
Cheers me dears :-)

x

60th Birthday

2011-08-01T15:27:00.001+01:00

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Challenges
Papertake #58 - sketch
Allsorts #114 - free n easy
CCCB #76 - pink, green, white
One Stop # 141 - vintage
Ruby's Rainbow # 8 - vintage

For the wife of my DIL's boss.

The lucky birthday girl is off to New York with a friend in September - courtesy of her husband :-)

I remembered having this beautiful image of an ad for a NY clothes store - just perfect for this card.

Isn't she lovely, although looking rather sad methinks.

I've made the embellies to compliment the image. As the lovely lady is wearing a BIG flowery hat I made this hat pin and my first 'crinoline' flower - dyed with tattered rose DI - I'm so proud of it LOL.
I just love the crinoline flowers made by Linda Coughlin and followed her tutorial here - although as I don't have any of the right size/shape dies I cut my own shapes.
It is laying on two 5cm squares of muslin well fringed around the edges :-)

Other stuff -
Papers from my leftovers/scrap box.
Handmade sentiment, distress inked with TH vintage photo
Circle embossed with CB texture folder which also has the vintage photo ink treatment
Doily - difficult though it was, I managed to leave this unadulterated
A tiny bit of sparkle added to the sentiment circle and the brad.

Thank you for stopping by today
Cheers me dears

x

Pretty tags

2011-07-31T15:47:00.002+01:00

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Another card for my niece's 30th birthday and for the following challenges

Mojo #201 - sketch
The Shabby Tea Room #72 - yellow, pink, green, neutral
Bearly Mine #15 - tag you're it

Thank you for stopping by today
Cheers me dears

x

Summertime.......

2011-07-29T00:30:00.006+01:00

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Crafty Ann's Challenge #46

Summertime.........and the living is easy....

I have used two papers from funky collection 2 and the lovely beach digi which I coloured digitally. It took just as long or even longer than using my usual copics but I love the result so it was worth it :-)
I pasted it on to a blank postcard image with the greeting and after cutting out, distressed the edges with my steel rule and some vintage photo ink.The ticket has also had the distressing treatment.

I chose these lovely pink flowers to compliment the tropical beach along with some punched leaves and some dyed string

Thanks for stopping by today. It would be lovely if you could join us for this challenge.

For some inspiration pop over to CACB and have a decco at my lovely DT buddies work. As always they have excelled in their interpretation of the challenge.

I'd like to enter this for the following challenges

CPS #228 - sketch

Crafting for all Seasons #6 - beach/ocean

For Fun Challenge - sand/beach

CYDA #25 - summertime

Paper Sundaes #79 - beachy/summer

Cheers me dears :-)

30th Birthday

2011-07-22T00:54:00.004+01:00

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Challenges
Mojo Monday #200 - this is based on the current sketch
Ruby's Rainbow #8 - vintage
CYP #67 - text it!
Flutter by Wednesday #163 - open
Allsorts . #112 - free and easy
ABC - Y is for yesterday
Crafts & Me #44 - add a flower
HLSC #31 - make your own embellies - crochet flowers

For our niece will be celebrating her 30th next Friday.

I have not done any crochet for years so am quite pleased how these turned out - there are a few mistakes but I hope no one notices, lol.
I made them for a challenge but by the time I had made them AND made the card the challenge had ended :-(
I made the circle sentiment in Publisher - I surprised myself that I remembered how to do it. It has been liberally distressed with TH vintage photo distress ink - the most used of the two TH distress ink pads I posses.

Since taking the pic I added pearls to the bottom RH to match the top left

Thought I'd add a pic of the box. Very plain - distressed doily - computer generated greeting with a gem - seam ribbon bow and a WO rose

Other ingredients -
Muslin
Purple fibre 'stuff'
Gorgeous lace
Seam binding ribbon
Pearl buttons
Butterflies from goody bag win
Flat back pearls
Glittery flourish

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

Goodbye, goodbye.........

2011-07-18T19:54:00.001+01:00

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Challenges
ICS #122- sketch
Crafty Catz #91- tags
Charisma Cardz #28 - it's in the stars
Creative Inspirations #120 - no flowers allowed
Craft Your Passion #67 - text it
Aud Sentiments #32 - at least two words
PCJ #14 - for him

Granddaughter asked for a card for her tutor who is leaving the school for pastures new.
Most of the makings for this have come from my stash.........I found the map of the school location on Google and gave it a sepia look with PPx2.

The star die cut should be all separate pieces but I couldn't get them apart but I think it looks good like this. I rubbed over it and the corners with some metallic rub-on in walnut colour and a tiny bit of silver blue

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

Hubby's Birthday

2011-07-17T16:36:00.001+01:00

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A couple of cards for hubby's birthday and the following challenges

PCJ #14 - for him
Ruby's Rainbow #7 - happy birthday
Penny's Paper-Crafty #57 - happy birthday
A Gem of a Challenge #25 - let's hear it for the boys - assuming an OLD boy qualifies!

Both quite simple with 'embossed looking' lettering done with Serif PPx2

The BP on this first one is....wallpaper :-)

I particularly like the lettering on this one below - I hope I remember how I did it if I want to do it again, LOL

Thank you for stopping by and for all the wonderful encouraging comments left recently - each and every one is truly appreciated

Cheers me dears :-)

x

Crafty Ann's Challenge #45

2011-07-15T00:30:00.006+01:00

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That's another two weeks gone in a flash and it's time again for another challenge at

Crafty Ann's Challenge Blog

This challenge is all about Dry Embossing or De-bossing - or both on the same project

I have used two of Ann's polished stone papers - the green is embossed with CB texture and the pale brown with script. The edges of this strip have had the MS border punch treatment and I used it to cover the join between the texture embossing.

I coloured the cala lilies digitally, very lightly, and fixed the top layer with silicone.

It would be lovely to see your embossed creations and if you need some inspiration, pop over to Crafty Ann's to see the lovely DT samples

I'd also like to enter this for the following challenges

Creatalicious #24 - 1920's theme

Amber's #18 - embossing

Kaboodle Doodles #75 - use those scissors

MAWTT #107 - favourite things - vintage, ribbon & lace, flowers

Thank you for stopping by

Cheers me dears

Anniversary # 2

2011-07-10T23:48:00.002+01:00

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Challenge
The Crafty Pad #129 - lots of texture
Craft Your Passion #65 - anything goes
Kaboodle Doodles #74 - celebrations
The ABC Challenge - Y... is for yesterday
Aud Sentiments #32 - sentiment with at least two words

For daughter and son in law from me and dad :-)

I love this image :-)......it is a freebie and I only downloaded it on Friday and have already forgotten where I got it. If anyone recognises it please let me know so I can credit the source.

I am proud of the circle sentiment - made in Publisher and cut with fancy scissors. I've added 2 small flat back pearls

The main DP is a freebie from making cards mag and another from Classic Paper Designs, Vintage collection by Crafty Secrets. The other two from my bit box.

The handmade flower had the uttee treatment and is just like porcelain and is gorgeous.....even if I say so myself, LOL.
Son in law has a nice collection of feathers he uses to make flies for trout fishing and I cadged this lovely green one :-)
A seam binding ribbon bow and a strip of cotton lace to finish it off

Thank you for stopping by and if you have time to leave a comment........
Cheers me dears :-)

* flippin 'eck! I've just corrected all the spelling mistakes...yikes, I'm definitely losing it, LOL

x

Bi-plane Birthday

2011-07-10T14:54:00.000+01:00

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Challenges
A Gem of a Challenge #25 - let's hear it for the boys
Paper Crafting Journey # 14 - for him

For a forum friend.

A nice and simple card
The fab digi is a freebie from Create with TLC - wonderful for 'blokey' cards.
The papers are from Moments in Time

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

Wedding Anniversary #1

2011-07-10T09:12:00.000+01:00

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Challenges
Top Tip Tuesday # 41 - wedding or anniversry
Crafty Catz #90 - vintage look
Cute Card Thursday # - lace

For the first time in 18 years my son in law asked me to make a card for their anniversary!!

Papers from K&Co. These are from the 6x6 pad and so had to join two together.

Other stuff
A favourite image that I use a lot for anniversary and wedding cards, digitally fitted into a swirly frame
Handmade tag liberally aged with distress ink
Cotton lace
'Flower' made from net and tissue paper and pearl button
Heart stick pin and pearl gems
Ribbon and roses

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

Purple 50th

2011-07-06T19:14:00.001+01:00

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Challenges
Mojo Monday #198 - sketch
Allsorts # 110 - free & easy
Papertake Weekly - anything goes

Polished stone BP from Crafty Ann embossed with CB texture folder, the other paper unknown from my stash and joined together with some hand stitching

The two strips are pieces of wallpaper samples and have a lovely texture.

Other stuff

Nellie die

Flower - WO

Seam binding ribbon - My wedding party

Bling

Thank you for stopping by

Cheers me dears

Purple and Black 50th Birthday

2011-07-04T23:41:00.000+01:00

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Challenges
Truly Scrumptious #60 - things with wings
Flutterby Wednesday #160 - open challenge
Birthday Sundaes #16 - anything goes birthday card
Sentimental Sundays #62 - anything with a sentiment
Sparkles #15 - recipe - 1 x flower, 1 x image, 2 x ribbons
Dream Valley #10 - ribbon

Another request from my DD for a friend. The brief was Purple and black!!!

The backing paper is from Crafty Ann's polished stone brights collection stamped with a few butterflies.
Once again this lovely image - I do wish I could remember which CD she is from. I added some rather uneven sparkle to the black mat.
The butterfly embellie was die-cut from some wallpaper - the bottom one is black - the reverse of the paper - some bling for the body

I found a free template for the tags - not too difficult to cut out, although I'd rather have a tag die to use, LOL - the sentiment computer generated.

My first crinoline flower - I followed Linda - Funkie Junkie's tut but had to use a chalk inkpad to colour cos that was all I had available. I should have wetted the flower diecuts to help keep the shape - but, hey ho, not bad for a first attempt .

Other stuff
Seam binding ribbon - My Wedding Party
Net
Handmade stick pin

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

25th Wedding Anniversary

2011-07-02T10:00:00.003+01:00

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Challenges
CYDA #23 - vintage
OCC - your style
Shabby Tea Room - favourite things - vintage images,ribbon, lace, flowers
Top Tip Tuesday #40 - T is for....tag, TH distress ink, turquoise (pattern on the paper)
If the Shoe Fits - war of the roses
Stampalot July challenge - anything goes

This is for my DD to give to friends. The lucky couple are celebrating by sunning themselves in Mauritius:-)

The background paper is a gorgeous freebie from Paulette's Create with TLC and I am sad that I have covered most of it up.
The frame is some printed music score and punched around the edge with MS corner punch and liberally inked with TH Vintage Photo distress ink.

The net is from a corsage from Matalan, also inked

The image is also a freebie - forget where from and the little heart tag is from Linda, the Funkie Junkie :-)

Other details
Lace - local haberdashery
Seam binding ribbon - My Wedding Party
Homemade stick pin
Flowers - WO

Thank you for stopping by.
Cheers me dears

x

Crafty Ann's Challenge #44

2011-07-01T00:30:00.004+01:00

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Crafty Ann's Challenge #44

and the theme for this challenge is

Get Well/Thinking of you

Gosh! I've been AWOL for so long and since returning from holiday I have spent the past week at my daughter's looking after her business. I took some cardmaking equipment with me but not near enough and didn't have access to all the necessary stuff on my computer - just proves how much I rely on it.

Anyhow, I decided to use Ann's precoloured flowers and the palest green from the Abstract 2 - Earth tones Collection.

The flowers were added digitally to the BP and then I printed, cut out and shaped another set of flowers and added these on top, added the sentiment banner and job done!

Don't forget to head over to CACB and see the fabby designs from my DT buddies.

I hope you will take up the challenge and share your 'Get Well' or 'Thinking of you' cards with us.

I'd also like to enter this for

ASFOS #158 - Get well
One Stop Craft #137 - Get well soon
The Crafty Pad #127 - Bold & bright or soft pastels
Digital Tuesday #117 - Flower power - must use digital image

Thank you for stopping by

Cheers me dears

Crafty Ann's Challenge #43

2011-06-17T00:30:00.008+01:00

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Crafty Ann's Challenge

Christmas in June

I have used pointsettia backing paper with a little sparkle in the centre of the flowers. The wreath and holly in the corner are from Ann's pre-coloured Christmas images section.

The ribbon bow is rather OTT, lol, and the centre is a button liberally covered with cosmic shimmer crystals.

I hope you can join us for this challenge at CACB... at least you will have one card done ready for Christmas :-)

Cheers me dears

x

Crafty Ann's Challenge #42

2011-06-03T00:30:00.004+01:00

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Crafty Ann's Challenge

"Use more than one image"
They can be used separately or combined to make a scene

I have used images from the sewing sheet, which you will find here, and the backing paper is once again from the funky collection.
The nestie frame is cut from silver mirri card and the words and flower stitched on to canvas paper. I wrapped some of the same thread on to the cotton reel and also threaded some throught the needle.
The tape measure is printed on canvas paper and coloured lightly with copics and silver pentouch on the end

It will be lovely if you can join us for this challenge - just pop over to CACB and lets see you use 'more than one image'

I will be away during this challenge so apologise in advance that I won't be able to post any comments. until I get back

Cheers me dears

x

Special Friend

2011-05-30T23:48:00.000+01:00

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And it's goodbye from me - I'll see you when I bet back from holiday :-)

Challenges
ABC - V is for violet
CCC - anything goes
OLLCB #81 - Happy birthday

Another for my daughter for another of her friends.

The backing paper is from Bearly Mine - I love the lacey border.
I wish I could remember where I got this image. I'm sure it is on a CD. I saved it in a file on my PC and now can't find the original

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

21st Birthday

2011-05-30T16:22:00.003+01:00

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I will be away until June 16 so be good and I'll see you when I get back :-)

Challenges
Mojo Monday # - I used the sketch and missed the deadline
CYDA #21 - Special Man
Aud Sentiments # 29 - for a male
Crafty Sentiments - special occasions
Charisma Cardz #21 - Boy oh boy - for a male

A request from daughter for her friend's son who has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and has been confined to wheelchair for many of his 21 years.
He enjoys watching football and a beer or two :-) but I opted for a neutral theme card for his special birthday.

The BP's are freebies from Jak....thanks so much Jak....they were just the job for this card :-)

The wording was done in my graphics programme....I'm getting to grips with this at last
I added some raffia for an extra bit of interest

Thank you for stopping by.
Cheers me dears :-)

x

Dear Friend

2011-05-29T15:43:00.001+01:00

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For my daughter for her friend... and the following challenges

Sketch Saturday # 157 - sketch and SS's 3rd birthday celebrations
Crafty Catz # 84 - pink and green

Big apologies for my lack of blog visiting and leaving comments - such a lot going on at the moment - hospital visits, a funeral, last minute requests for cards, getting ready for holiday and computer problems...oh, and a waist high pile of ironing to do...eeek

Thank you for stopping by and for the lovely comments you take time to leave
Cheers me dears

x

80th Flowers and a Flutterby

2011-05-24T18:04:00.004+01:00

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Phew, this is the last of the 80th birthday cards and this one is for hubby's aunt.

Challenges
Sketch Saturday #156 - the sketch
Scrappy Frogs - Happy B day
Anything Goes #41 - bingo - (buttons, flowers, pin)
ASFOS #153 - things with wings - (butterfly embellishment)
Flutterby Wednesday - open
Crafty Creations #119 - May flowers
Rainbow Lady #153 - with a flourish - (flourish pattern paper)
Creatalicious #22 - flourishes

Ovals cut with fancy scissors

The flowers, lace and pin

Inside

Papers - K & Co and Spring Romantic by Doreen Stolz
Pin from WO + pearls
Flowers - WO
Lace and ribbon from stash
Peel off butterfly
Silver heart buttons

Thank you for stopping by and the lovely comments left recently
Cheers me dears :-)

x

Crafty Ann's Challenge #41

2011-05-20T00:30:00.007+01:00

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Crafty Ann's Challenge

and this time the theme is Oriental

I chose to use Ann's lovely peacock fan. After lightly colouring the background digitally I coloured the rest with copics, added a little sparkle, cut out the fan and popped up the top with foam pads - the handle is stuck directly on to the BP.

Backing papers are from the funky range - just love these colours :-) The scallops were cut with my Xcut corner rounder.

Seam binding ribbon bow, a blossom from Wild Orchid, some raffia, waste peel offs and I hope I've achieved the oriental look

The DT have done a wonderful job with this challenge....do pop over to Challenge #41 and see their beautiful designs for yourself
We hope you will be able to join us this time and look forward to seeing your oriental creations.

I'd like to enter this for the following challenges
Aud Sentiments #28 - no sentiment
Truly Scrumptious #57 - anything goes
ASFOS #152 - anything goes
OSAAT #62 - anything goes

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

80th Birthday Greetings

2011-05-15T23:08:00.004+01:00

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Challenges
TTT #33 - flower frenzy
CCC - may flowers
Creative Inspirations #111 - decorate the inside
Diva's by Design #1 - their First challenge - anything goes
RRR #24 - anything goes

200mm square

Only one more to go, yippee.
This is the one destined for Tasmania - I do hope my customer likes it.
The only requirement was for lilies as the recipient (Lil) likes lilies - how appropriate :-)
The backing papers were designed by ......drum roll......ME!! Three different ones no less, though all are similar .
Can you tell how pleased I am with myself, lol.
I started off with a neutral BP and added the stargazer lily images in varying levels of transparency.

I couldn't find anyone who sells stargazer lilies, only cala's, so I resized the image, printed it 3 times and decoupaged it.
I made up the 'congrats' circle and edged it with gold pen.

The inside is the neutral BP, a 50% transparent lily and a lightened circle for the greeting.
Seam binding ribbon, a doily and lace finish it off.

The box/envelope in silver mirri card. Computer generated label on a Nellie die cut frame.
I fancied it up a bit with an MS corner punch.

Top Tip learned today
A baby wipe removes nasty gluey splodges and fingerprints from lovely shiny mirri card :-)
A buff with a clean tissue and no one would guess how messy some people can be, lol

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

Happy 80th

2011-05-14T14:29:00.001+01:00

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Another 80th birthday card - only two more to go :-)

This one is for my neighbour from me.
She recently spent 7 weeks in Australia visiting her sister. I think it's great that she is up for travelling half way round the globe on her own.

Challenges
Mojo Monday #190 - sketch
CCC - May flowers
Creative Inspirations #111 - decorate the inside
MPCC #26 - numbers
Everybody Art Challenge #141 - Flowers
Penny's PCC #53 - anything goes
RRR #23 - double dutch - use two ribbon, lace or trim
Sketchy Colours # 70 - pink, blue, green

Papers - Papermania Rose Garden
Flowers - wild orchid
Die cut flourish and number
Handmade mats
Seam binding ribbon
Parchment butterfly
Lace

A wonky view of the inside

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

80th Birthday

2011-05-08T23:46:00.001+01:00

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A simple design for a very special birthday.
The lady this is for used to be the headteacher of our local high school...I hope she approves.

*A plea for help from you lovely bloggers....in finding a supplier of mailing boxes to fit a boxed 200mm card. I have been asked to make an 80th birthday card to be posted to Tasmania.
Padded bags and bubble wrap are OK but my customer would like a box for posting. I made the last one for a boxed wedding card but it was such a faff I'd rather buy a few. If anyone can advise I will be very grateful :-)

This is made for the following challenges
Wild Orchid #22 - white + 2 colours (gold and brown) + roses
Crazy 4 Challenges #86 - flowers
My Partner in Crafting Crime #26 - numbers

Papers - Eva Kipler designs from Shabby Shoppe
Nestie label dies
Die cut numbers on computer generated sentiment
Roses from Wild Orchid
Seam binding ribbon bow

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears :-)

x

Crafty Ann's Challenge #40

2011-05-06T00:30:00.007+01:00

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Crafty Ann's Challenge

and the theme this fortnight is...

Happy Birthday

For my DT card I have used Ann's lovely Iris, from Ann's digi shop, coloured with copics and layered with foam pads on to a round nestie and then a green coloured Nellie die.

The main BP is lilac mottled stone with the side strip, purple polished stone - cut with fancy scissors.

Purple organza ribbon, peel-off greeting two waste 'dots' and Voila....

Click HERE to go to the challenge blog to see the fabby creations from the DT and I look forward to seeing your birthday cards

I'd also like to enter this into the following challenges

DYSU #18 - purple

Top Tip Tuesday #32 - open challenge

Papertake Weekly - anything goes + something round

Creative Inspirations #58 - digi day

Thank you for stopping by

Cheers me dears

Two Today! ....GDT card

2011-04-27T22:54:00.001+01:00

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Challenge #70 this week at Fab 'n' Funky is

Red, White and Blue

Vintage 70th

2011-04-24T22:33:00.004+01:00

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The second 70th birthday card. Again the request was for something bright and I fancied giving this one a vintage look.

Challenges for this card
Truly Scrumptious #55 - vintage
ASFOS #148 - celebrate

I made another 'calendar' and the red net is the covering from a punnet of plums, lol.

Thank you for stopping by and if you have time to leave a comment it'll make my day :-)
Cheers me dears

x

70th Birthday

2011-04-23T00:55:00.004+01:00

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8inch sq.

The spec for this card was bright colours and I made it to fit the following challenges

Mojo Monday #187 - sketch
Incy Wincy #90 - bright and bold
Ambers Craft & Stuff #6 - ribbons and bows
Aud Sentiments #26 - anything goes
Top Tip Tuesday #30 - open challenge
Flutterby Wednesday #151 - open challenge
OLLCB #78 -aqua, bling, sentiment
Bearly Mine #8 - inside out

I've again used papers from the Sprout collection from Shabby Shoppe.
Seam binding ribbon
Marianne die
Pearls
Lace
Blossom from WO
Parchment butterfly

The inside

Thank you for stopping by

Cheers me dears :-)

Crafty Ann's Challenge #39

2011-04-22T00:30:00.007+01:00

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This week Ann's challenge is for you to show us your

Fancy Folds

either the card/project itself or on the card/project.

I was inspired by the handbag template in the current issue of my card making mag and this involved some folding I had not attempted before. This little gift bag has room inside to add a treat - chocolate would be a good idea, lol.

I've used the green from the Wood Grain Effect Pastels Collection as the base BP and two layers of the lovely daffodils from the pre-coloured collection which can be found here

Oh so easy to use when time is short - or as in my case I often use these because Ann has done such an excellent job with the colouring saving me the job, LOL.

I added a strip of wide lace, and glittered the edges all round. The sentiment is layered on to gold mirri.

I made a small parchment butterfly embellishment and added a large satin bow with pearl button as the final touch.

I hope you will be able to join us for this challenge and look forward to seeing your

Fancy Folds.

The DT have done a wonderful job with theirs and you can pop over to Crafty Ann's and see them for yourself.

*Ooops, forgot to add that I'd like to enter this for the following challenges
CRAFT #99 - flowers
Ai Factory #77 - flowers in bloom
Penny's PCCB #51 - Easter
The Crafty Pad #117 - Easter
Lexi's Creations #38 - anything but a card

Thank you for stopping by

Cheers me dears :-)

x

Fab 'n' Funky Challenge #69

2011-04-20T09:09:00.001+01:00

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This is the first of two cards as Guest for Fab 'n' Funky Challenges and the theme this week is

Wedding or Tying the Knot (to coincide with the Royal Wedding)

All of this card is made from my 'bit' box. I've had this delightful couple coloured and ready to use for ages, the doily has been gilded with Pentouch.

A closer look

I'd also like to enter this for
Crafty Cardmakers #44 - a royal wedding

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Vintage Birthday

2011-04-15T17:13:00.000+01:00

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Made for the following challenges
Mojo Monday #186 - sketch
The Shabby Tea Room # 57 - doilies and lace
Truly Scrumptious #55 - vintage
Amber's #5 - my favourite things - vintage image, flowers, lace, ribbon
Cooking it up with Katie #57 - 1 image 2 patterned papers 3 embellishments - flowers
Pear Tree Designs #44 - lace
Aud Sentiments #26 - anything goes

A birthday card for my daughter's friend who is having a difficult time healthwise

Thank you for stopping by and for all the lovely comments left recently
Cheers me dears :-)

x

CACB #38

2011-04-08T00:33:00.002+01:00

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Crafty Ann's Challenge #38

this fortnight is........Raise a Smile

"Our handcrafted work gives a lot of pleasure so make something to raise a smile. This could be a card for someone who could do with a little cheering up or an image that makes you smile every time you use it or project with some humour on it perhaps a funny card - maybe you have a funny photo just crying out to become a scrapbook page - the choice is yours"

I have used Ann's digi of a sweet little daschund named Daschsie.
The mottled stone papers are also from the shop and I cut around the edges with fancy scissors.
I added the text to some bone shapes and embellished with paper 'ribbon' and some homemade silver mirri brads.

Over on the challenge blog are some fabulous cards from the DT which will make you smile and it would be great if you join us for this one with one of your 'funny' creations

I'd also like to enter this for the the following challenges -
I used the sketch from
Sketch Saturday #149 although I flipped it
Fuzzy Wuzzy #8 is an inspirational photo from which to create an animal project and
CRAFT #97 is animals/pets
Craft your Passion #52 - anything goes
PaperPlay #14 - critters

Thank you for stopping by and for the much appreciated comments you leave
Cheers me dears :-)

x

And another 90th Card

2011-04-07T00:26:00.001+01:00

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The last of the cards for aunt's 90th birthday

Challenges
Sketchy Colours # 65 - sketch
Scrappy Frogs - Flowers and lace

Papers - Pink Petticoat
Lace bow
PC generated sentiment
A gem for the 'O' in Love

Thank you for stopping by and for the lovely comments you've been leaving
Cheers me dears

x

Another 90th Card

2011-04-06T14:36:00.000+01:00

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Challenge
Crafty Cardmakers #43 - yellow, ribbon, stitching, gems

The daisy paper is K&Co
Hand cut 90 with gems from stash
Faux stitching
Computer generated greeting
Seam binding ribbon

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

90th Birthday

2011-04-05T18:34:00.001+01:00

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A card for hubby's aunt who will be 90 on Wednesday. It is a shame that she will not be enjoying a celebration with us neices and nephews because sadly she had a stroke 2wks ago.
I doubt she will be aware of any cards she receives.

Challenges
Mojo Monday #185 - sketch
Allsorts #97 - bloomin blossoms

I've added loads of sparkle and this is a failed effort to show it

CB textile embossing folder
Doily with inked edge and stickles
MS deep border punch
Flowers from Wild Orchid
Seam binding ribbon from My Wedding Party
Computer generated greetings

Thank you for stopping by and such encouraging comments
Cheers me dears :-)

x

Another New Baby Card

2011-04-02T23:22:00.003+01:00

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I've had a few requests for baby cards lately.......well...it is spring :-)

Challenges
CYDA #17 - spots and stripes
Wild Orchid #20 - I've flipped sketch so I hope it qualifies
Lexi's Creations #37 - Monochromatic
OSAAT #55 - mothers day/babies - guess what I chose!
PIO # 13 - cutie patootie

Various papers I already had printed
The image is one I use often for baby cards - the source long forgotten
Doily - edge lightly inked with blue chalk
Seam binding ribbon from My Wedding Party
Flowers from Wild Orchid Crafts
Computer generated greeting and sentiment
Narrow cotton lace

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

Special Lady

2011-03-31T23:55:00.001+01:00

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Challenge
Allsorts #96 - For a Special lady

For my lovely aunty for mothers day

A quick card using the free papers from Making Cards mag

Thank you for stopping by

Cheers me dears :-)

50th Birthday

2011-03-31T17:31:00.004+01:00

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Challenges

The Shabby Tea Room #55 - Flower Palette
The ABC Challenge - Roses

Colour Create # 67 - Pastels

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears :-)

x

Golden Wedding

2011-03-31T16:25:00.003+01:00

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An easel card for 50th Wedding Anniversary

Made with the following challenges in mind

Delightful Challenges - flowers
Dutch Dare #106 - distressing
Amber's Craft & Stuff #3 - flowers
Anything Goes - make your own embellishments - frame and flowers

The DP is by Eva Kipler
The stamped words on the handmade 'frame' are from an unmounted rubber stamp with a hydrangea
Flowers are made from seam binding ribbon from My Wedding Party and have a gem centre
Words are computer generated

Thank you for stopping by.
I apologise for my lack of blog visiting and commenting - hopital visits to poorly family members is the priority at the moment

Cheers me dears :-)

x

Baby Ruby...again

2011-03-28T00:13:00.002+01:00

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Another card to celebrate the birth of baby Ruby. I have followed the BINGO challenge at
The Shabby Tea Room #54 - middle line down - lace, flowers, embossing

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears :-)

x

Welcome Baby

2011-03-27T10:32:00.004+01:00

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Challenges

Mojo Monday #183 sketch
A Gem of a Challenge #17 - anything but square
Creatalicious #20 - 2 tone

This is a real photo of baby Ruby Hope sent to me by her Grandma specially to make this card.....isn't she a sweetheart :-)

Papers - Pink Petticoat vintage rose collection
Lace, ribbon, flowers as usual from stash

Thank you for stopping by and for taking the time to leave such lovely recent and much appreciated comments
Cheers me dears :-)

x

CACB #37

2011-03-25T00:30:00.022Z

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Crafty Ann's Challenge

this time is

Be inspired by an Elvis song

and Ann has kindly provided a link to a list here if you need one

My choice of song is ‘ Indescribably Blue’

Ann's beautiful Morning Glory digi fits this title a treat and I really enjoyed colouring it. I love the wording of the definition behind the flower. There are 3 different versions of this image and can be found here in the digi shop.

I used embossed dots and the lovely blue from the funky collection.

Simply finished with seam binding ribbon and a swirly peeloff.

Challenges
CES #28 - inspired by a song
The Crafty Pad #113 - use adigi
A Gem of a Challenge #17 - anything but square

Do pop over to Crafty Ann's Challenge Blog and you'll see the fabulous interpretations of the Elvis songs the design team have chosen.

There were such a lot of gorgeous entries for the last challenge and I hope you will be able to join in with this one

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears :-)

x

21st Birthday

2011-03-19T16:01:00.004Z

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Challenges
DYSU #11 - add a bow
Amber's Crafts & Stuff #1 - anything goes
Creatalicious #20 - two tone

I managed to use the lovely MS deep border punch again and of course the lovely seam binding ribbon.
Papers from my leftover stash - one unknown, the plain from Crafty Ann's digi shop
The corner peel-offs are the leftovers - the first time I've managed to do this - tis a good job I've not thrown out many of my used sheets...got loads I could do this with, lol

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

Howay the Lads!

2011-03-19T14:37:00.000Z

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Hello peeps :-)
A quick post of a card made for a friend of youngest g/son whom he met on holiday last year and keeps in touch with on XBox.
As you might guess he is a Magpie fan - not the most exciting card but I have been assured he will appreciate it.

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

Flowery Fiftieth Fan

2011-03-16T18:31:00.004Z

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Commissioned 5oth card.

An attempt at doing a larger piece in parchment and maybe a bit too ambitious for a beginner, methinks..... it took me an age....gave me a headache.....but am pleased with the result.....just hope the recipient is too.

I used Crafty Ann's fan digi from her new Oriental Collection as the pattern for the blades.
The BP is from Crafty Ann's funky collection 3 and digitally added the corner spray and sentiment.
I was worried about sticking the fan on to the card and making a mess....no problem with paper but parchment.......? ...a challenge but I got there in the end.

The small punched flowers with a pearl in the centre are representing the cherry blossom along with a blossom from Wild Orchid.

Any tips on PC will be greatly appreciated......I missed a local beginners workshop by a couple of weeks but will be enrolling for the next one....just hope it is sooooon...in the meantime I'll just keep practicing

A pearly button - local haberdashers
Vintage seam binding - My Wedding Party
Tassel and pearls - Joanna Sheen

Challenges
Creatalicious #20 - Two tone/colours
CCC - Show us some green
Fab N Funky - Green
PaperPlay #10 - Shades of green/good luck

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears :-)

x

CACB #36

2011-03-11T00:30:00.056Z

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Crafty Ann's Challenge #36

and this time we have a sketch/theme challenge

~ Spring is in the Air ~

......I like sketch challenges.....and I like spring....so a perfect challenge

Here is my interpretation of the sketch and theme. For my birthday my daughter got some tools to start me off with parchment craft and as I was itching to practice I have done something for the challenge.
I also had some gorgeous handmade cards.....thank you so much dear bloggy friends :-)

I used Ann's short petal flower and leaves as a template.....it reminds me of one of the hellebores just coming into flower in my garden.
I fixed it to a mat from the mottled stone collection 4 - this is layered on to some silver .mirri. The main BP is one of the funky collection 2.
The border on the other piece of parchment is an adaptation of a free border I found on the net. I am very pleased that some of Ann's digi's can be used for parchment craft.

Finished with a few stick on pearls.

I'd like to enter this for
Aly's Sunday Challenge - Anything goes
The Pink Elephant #95 - Spring time

Do pop over to the Crafty Ann's Challenge Blog and see the beautiful sketch/spring cards made by the DT.
It would be lovely if you can join us for this challenge.

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears

x

50th Birthday

2011-03-10T20:41:00.005Z

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Challenges
Oooh LaLa #75 - It's a man thing
Creative Card World - card for a male
CCC - no flowers
Simon Says - anything goes
Colour Create #66 - greens, brown, cream, black + leaves

Various papers from my leftover bits folder and freebies from Making Cards mag

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

15th birthday

2011-03-10T20:11:00.001Z

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Some cards for granddaughter's boyfriend

Challenges
Allsorts #93 - card for a teenager
Aud Sentiments #23 - birthday
Creative Card Crew - no flowers

Thank you for stopping by :-)
Cheers me dears

x

New Baby Girl

2011-02-26T17:41:00.001Z

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Commissioned New Baby card.

Challenges for this card

OLLCB #74 - Pink, pink and more pink!
Crazy 4 Challenges #76 - Flowers - only one! but there are flowers on the lace too
AiF #69 - Monochromatic
The Crazy Challenge #55 - Baby love
Pear Tree Designs #37 - One colour
Anything Goes CB - Distressing
My Partner in Crafting Crime #20 - All about baby

I made the image stightly transparent and printed it directly on to some DP along with the words. Distressed edges with my trusty steel ruler - I like one of those distressing thingys to make the job easier...sigh!

This sweet image again and I still don't remember where it is from.

Image - unknown
Papers - Sprout digi collection
Flowery lace - local haberdashers
Wide satin ribbon - local haberdashers
Handcut, glamour dusted heart
String and flowers from stash

Thank you for stopping by and the lovely encouraging comments
Cheers me dears :-)

x

Crafty Ann's Challenge #35

2011-02-25T00:30:00.026Z

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Happy Birthday

is the challenge this time over at Crafty Ann's and this is definitely appropriate
cos it's my birthday next week.

I am ready to graciously accept any birthday greetings that may come my way ROFL.

I have used one of Ann's pre-coloured images. I had decided to go for the purple and lilac papers even before I chose the image - excellent match isn't it.

I have decoupaged the roses and added a second layer to the bow. I've matted the image with foam pads on to silver mirri which I cut around with scissors.

Image - pre-coloured Pink Roses sheet

Papers - Polished stone Brights collection
- Mottled stone - collection 5
MS border punch
Cadbury purple seam binding ribbon - My Wedding Party
Flowers Wild Orchid

Do pop over to the Crafty Ann's Challenge Blog challenge blog and have a look at the gorgeous creations the DT have produced for this challenge.
I hope you'll be able to join in and play along and I'm looking forward to seeing your Happy Birthday entries

Cuttent challenges I'd like to enter with this card
I used the sketch from Wild Orchid
Lexi's Creations #34 - Flowers
If the Shoe Fits FF#68 - Purple
The ABC Challenge - O is for ovals
ASFOS #140 - Birthday wishes

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears :-)

x

Butterflies in Blue

2011-02-24T21:19:00.007Z

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I've long admired those definition background stamps - among other things, lol, but the craft budget is somewhat restricted
So I found the definition of 'niece' from the OED, (I've done friend as well) chose a brown colour and made my own.
It is printed on to canvas paper (an Aldi bargain last week) and aged with blending chalk and I'm real pleased with the result.

The butterflies are from Wings & Flowers CD. I love the content of this CD but do wish it was possible to export to a graphics prog. I managed in the end but it was a struggle to get the b/flies where I wanted.

One layer is printed directly on to the b/ground. I printed the two large b/flies on to photo paper and shaped and layered these on top. The sentiment is printed directly on to the b/ground too.
The inspiration for this came from the 'Butterflies in Blue' article in last Sept Making Cards mag.

Challenge
Flutter by Wednesday #129 - Anything goes
Crafts & Me - Spread your wings
Do You Stack Up #8 - Anything goes
City Crafter #45 - Nothing to it - no bows, no lace, no flowers, no buttons.

Thank you for stopping by
Cheers me dears :-)

x

60th Easel Card

2011-02-23T22:47:00.003Z

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Inspirational Card Sketches #103 - Easel card
Craft Your Passion #46 - Male card
Lollypop Crafts #27 - Black, white and a pop of colour
Dutch Dare #100 - Sparkle, glitter, bling

For an Arsenal fan :-) and boy did I struggle with this.

I cut a star and covered it in fine black glitter - ooooh, what a messy job! - layered it on to a d'vine swirled mat. The number 60 is Sissix Azure alpha die and the BP is from the Papermania Mono pad.
I printed the 'happy birthday' strip and 'dear husband and layered that on to silver mirri. The sentiment is handcut with fancy scissors

As I had to get something Arsenal in, I printed the logo on to photo paper and used it to hold down the ribbon.

Thank you for stoppping by
Cheers me dears :-)

x