Crafty Helen

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2012-01-24T10:53:00.000+13:00

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Happy 16th Birthday

2012-01-20T23:33:00.000+13:00

Today Darian's (our eldest son)16th Birthday.

Our friend Barbara put his birthday on the radio and he won the birthday from May's Bakery.

Here's the Card I quickly made this morning.

Last week on NZSU blog Paula set us a colour challenge to use, River Rock, Cherry Cobbler & Marina Mist or River Rock, Tangerine Tango & Not Quite Navy.

I didn't get a chance to play last week, so I decided to use River Rock, Tangerine Tango & Not Quite Navy to make Darian's card.

I used the Sketch Challenge from JAI#101 challenge this week.

I have read somewhere not sure where that Tangerine Tango is the colour of the year for 2012.

Yay I love Tangerine Tango.

I liked this sketch and found it quite easy to do, I made this card within 20 minutes.

I have used 'Circle Circus' and 'Bring on the Cake' Stamp Set

'Circle Circus' is a great set for men's cards.

I stamped the River Rock circle with River Rock Ink, then I over stamped in Not Quite Navy then using Tangerine Tango Marker coloured in the 1 and 6 and circled the th.

The square of Tangerine Tango, I stamped with Bleach.

Here's the inner, sorry the photos not the best.

I was very pleased with the finished card.

Jacob's Birthday

2012-01-14T20:38:00.000+13:00

Happy Birthday Jacob Roscoe.

Samuel's friend Jacob Roscoe (Samuel always uses his surname when talking about Jacob, too cute) turned 6 today.

Here's the card we made for him.

I used 'Under the Big Top' Stamp Set and matching Big Top Birthday DSP.

Here's the inner.

Jacob had a party in the Scenic Reserve here's a pic of Jacob and Samuel.

Holiday Mode

2012-01-08T02:22:00.001+13:00

We are still in holiday mode here.

I haven't done any craft, in fact I don't have a craftroom at the moment it has been a bedroom.

I will be fixing that problem this week.

We have just been relaxing, enjoying great family times and memories been made.

I have been reading and time spent on pinterest, I have lots of ideas for this coming year.

I was talking about new years resolutions in my last post.

This years resolution is to lose weight, drink more water and be healthier.

Here's a few photos taken this week.

The kids at Dashing Rocks.

Paul and Savannah had a day trip to Mt Nimrod on Thursday.

View from the top of Mt Nimrod.

This is Abi Kempf a friend from church, sing in the semi finals talent show at Caroline Bay Carnival.

We took our tea down to the bay and watched the talent show, Abi sang beautifully.

Samuel on the Inflatable play equipment.

Darian in the dogdems at the carnival.

Paul is back at work on Monday so life will go back to more normal.

Savannah has a week till she go to Guide Jamboree in Rotorua, she is getting excited.

Hello Twenty Twelve

2012-01-03T16:21:00.000+13:00

Happy New Year to you all.

I hope you are relaxing and enjoying the holidays.

We certainly are.

Paul (DH) has been on call up until yesterday, so it's really his first day of the holidays today and he is back at work on Monday.

Have you made New Years Resolution?

This time last year I said I would stop biting my nails and look at cleaner greener cleaning products.

I managed to stop biting my in November and I have used lots of baking soda, borax and vinegar as cleaning products.

I found a Bin Inn recipe for my own washing and dishwasher powder and made it.

After some research online I discovered that the Bin Inn washing soda has 76% water content.

So I found a trader on Trade Me who sold the super strength washing soda and borax and have been buying it from since, he is a great trader and I recommend him, click HERE for his listings.

He also gave me a recipe for washing powder and I was using that until I came across Pinterest ( an online pin board) and found a couple of recipes for washing liquid.

The first I didn't like.

So on Boxing Day I needed to make more so I used the other recipe and I love it, it was easier to make about 45 minutes in total.

It makes 38 litres of laundry soap, I only had enough bottles to store it in concentrate, I will dilute it as I go.

I have converted it into litres, apart from that the recipe is the same as Janae's CLICK HERE to view the orginal recipe, Janae has lots of in depth photos and has compared it against another laundry soap and also has a leading washing machine manufacture letter.

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to pick up:

1/2 cup (125g) Borax ($10.80 from Trade me for 2.25 kilos includes p & p)
1 cup (250g) Super Washing Soda ($10.80 from Trade me for 2.25 kilos includes p & p)
155g Sunlight Soap (121g per bar, grate into second bar), ($4 for box of 4 soaps at local supermarket in laundry aisle)
20 litre bucket with lid (around $25 at Mitre 10 Mega)
Old milk bottles (or other containers, you will need about approx) that have been cleaned and rinsed (the concentrate will disperse more evenly if you go ahead and divide it up.
OPTIONAL: Essential Oil Drops for fragrance (we did not add this, so I am not sure how much it costs)

Grand Total: $3.68 for 300 loads in a top-loading machine. That’s just over 1 cents a load.

And you have all the spare ingredients in your cupboard for next time, it will be the soap you have to buy more often.

1. Grate 155g of Sunlight soap.

2. Put into pot with 4 cups of hot water. Stir continuously over meduin-low heat until all of the soap flakes have dissolved and melted (about 10 minutes).

It should be slightly foamy with no chunks or flakes to be found.

3. Fill a 20 litre bucket with 9.5 litres of hot water.

4. Pour in soap mixture. Add 1 cup of super strength washing soda and 1/2 cup borax and stir.

I used a long stick, but a broom or mop handle would work also (something that can reach to the bottom of the 20 litre bucket).

5. Fill to the 19 litre mark on bucket (I poured water into the bucket first to 9.5 litre marked with Vivid (marker) then to 19 litres and marked again) with cold water. Stir again.

6. Cover and let it sit overnight.

7. When you open the lid up the next day, it will have jelled and thickened slightly. Stir again.

8. Use a funnel to fill a clean bottle and fill to Half way with soap mixture. Fill the other water and shake.

9. Once you’re ready to use the laundry soap, shake it in the container first. Then add:
-1/2 cups for a regular top-loading machine
-1/4 cup for a front-loading (HE) machine

I found this on Pinterest, Pinterest is an online pin board if you would like an invite email me and I will get one to you.

Be Aware it is very addictive.

I will come back and share this years resolution with you.

Christmas Prepartions

2011-12-24T16:10:00.002+13:00

Today we have been tidying, sorting and moving furniture in prep for tomorrow.

We have my family coming from Christchurch and will be staying over night.

Savannah and I have been working on the table for tomorrows Christmas Dinner.

We will have 14 around the table tomorrow evening for Dinner.

Our colour combo is Pacific Point, Real Red and Very Vanilla.

The wine glass and the name place I pinned on Pinterest.

I love this idea and it was super easy to prepare.

I used Four Frames Stamp Set and stamped in Pacific Point and used Real Red Marker to write the name.

This a task I gave to Savannah to prepare, it's very effective a small bauble and a length of Very Vanilla Ribbon.

I love my candle holders, I coiled up some beads and added a silk rose.

I love it.

Here's our tree.

This is the tags I have made for this Christmas.

Have a great tomorrow.

Secret Santa

2011-12-23T23:03:00.000+13:00

My SS was Amanda Kennedy.

I received a questionnaire that Amanda has filled in.

On this Amanda said here favorite colours were pink and pastels and her dislikes was green.

As most of you know I struggle with pink and pastels and my favorite colour is green.

So I had to get out of my comfort zone.

Here's what I created for her.

This is the Christmas Card that I made for her.

I used Sahara Sand Textured, Pink Pirouette and Very Vanilla Card, with Letters to Santa Quick Accents.

The stampsets I used were Winter Post, Parlor Prints and Many Merry Messages.

This the Christmas Planner I made for her.

It was a tutorial from 'I heart the holidays' round of Ustamp with Dawn and Friends.

Melissa Huie was the designer.

I used Pink Pirouette as the main colour accented with Sahara Sand, Very Vanilla, Letters to Santa Quick Accent.

There is 4 tags in the front pocket.

Gift list, the pocket on the other can be used for recipes or receipts etc.

In the middle pocket are some tag so Amanda can make list.

Melissa had menu ideas on these.

More places for lists.

The back cover and more tags.

I enjoyed making this for Amanda, and I know she really liked it.

So going out of my comfort zone can be good.

I will now wish you all a very Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Secret Santa

2011-12-19T23:25:00.000+13:00

I joined the ESAD (Australian and NZ Demonstrators group on facebook) Secret Santa swap, today was reveal day.

Here is the parcel that arrived on Saturday from the lovely Julie Fettes.

My box of goodies.

Unpacked goodies.

Beautiful Christmas Reef using Deck the Hall Fabric.

I adore this felted angel. I taught myself to needle felt, but have only done flat projects.

Julie you have inspired me to do a 3d project. I will make it my holiday project.

Mr and Mrs Claus, these are too cute.

Julie has used Top Note Die and various punches to make these.

We filled out a form with likes and dislikes and a wish list.

Part of the swap was Stampin' Up product.

Here's what Julie got me, Timeless Portrait Fabric, Designer Frames Embossing folders, Champagne and Silver Stampin' Glass Glitter.

Thanks Julie, I really love it.

Go check her Blog HERE.
I will be back soon with what I made for my Secret Sister.

Were oh were...

2011-11-16T19:47:00.001+13:00

...have the last three weeks gone?

I am working for the Elections Advance Voting, I will be at Timaru Girls High on the day as Enquiry Officer so I will the person wearing the lovely orange vest directing people answering questions and helping with the smooth running of the place, then I will be at HQ as admin support afterward for about 10 days.

When I haven't been working I have been help a friends son and also learning the ropes at the Mountianview High School Uniform Shop.

If I have been home I have been doing things around home or in the garden.

So there hasn't been much time for crafting, to be honest I have been lacking inspiration.

I did find time to get my swaps done for tonights Team Meeting, which I unable to atteend (very sad).

We were asked to used the 'Stitched stocking Stamp Set and Punch.

We were also asked to think outside the square, which just stumped me.

I have seen lots of different things done with it on different blogs, but I didn't want to case.

So here is what I came up with circles.

These are Christmas Decorations or they could be tags on your gifts.

lollipop Accordian Flowers are very easy to made, I found them on Pinterest.

All you need is 2 strips of DSP, Scoring Tool, Crop-A-Dile and some Bakers Twine.

I have used Letters to Santa DSP, Old Olive, Riding Hood Red, Marina Mist, Blushing Bride Cardstock.

Add a bit of Ribbon and Bling and wallah you have it.

Sorry about the photos, they were taking on my phone.

Do you want to know more about Pinterest?

Only read on if you are prepared to get addicted.

There's a few of us on FB who are addicted.

Hello My Name is Helen I'm Addicted.....

You sign up, then you start pinning or repinning

Go and have a look for yourself, HERE.

Happy Birthday Mum

2011-10-26T17:40:00.000+13:00

Yesterday was my Mum's Birthday.

Here's the card I made her.

I cased this from Vicky Hayes a demo in the UK.

I have used 'Nature Walk', 'Aviary', 'Thoughts and Prayer' and 'Create a Cupcake' Stamp Sets.

The bird cage is embossed with white embossing powder.

The colour combo is Always Artichoke, Regal Rose, Pink Pirouette, Pretty in Pink and Whisper White.

I used the smallest flower from Boho Blossom Punch.

I like to tie the inside of the card to the outside.

Mum loved it.

Last Saturday

2011-10-21T21:45:00.002+13:00

Was Paul's (DH) mother's birthday.

So we decided we would surprize her, so Friday Savannah and Paul made her a carrot birthday cake.

Saturday we drove to Christchurch to see her.

She loved her surprize.

Here's the card I made for her.

I have used 'Just Believe and Bring on the Cake' Stamp Sets.

Rich Razzleberry, Pretty in Pink, Old Olive and Whisper colour combo.

Deck the Halls Handbag

2011-10-20T20:04:00.000+13:00

When I made Julia's handbag I also made another in 'Deck the Halls' Fabric.

I love love love this fabric, the colours are gorgeous.

I used Blossom Party Die to make the clasp.

Golden Wedding

2011-10-19T21:58:00.000+13:00

Another couple from church celebrated a very special Anniversary.

Bett and Earl have been married 5o years earlier in the month, we celebrated it last Sunday at church.

Here's the card I made for them (sorry the photos not the best).

I used 'Four Frames' and 'Under the Big Top' Stamp Sets.

The colour combo is Soft Suede, So Saffron, Bravo Burgundy and Very Vanilla with Mocha Morning Specialty DSP.

I used 5/8' Organza Ribbon and I dyed it with Bravo Burgundy Reinkers.

Secert Sister Swap

2011-10-18T21:23:00.000+13:00

The other day I showed you what I recieved from my Secert Sister, I told you that I thought I knew who my SS was well I was right with my guess it was Debbie Dawson go check out her blog HERE, Debbie does lots of beautiful quilts.

My SS was the lovely Julia Leece, who I met at The Big Day Out in Auckland in August.

Julia favourite colours are Black, Red and White, her favourite chocolate is Pineapple Lumps.

So it is Pineapple Lumps inside the gift.

This is the card I made her.

Heres the inside, I used the 'Faith in Nature' Hostess Stamp Set.

I made Julia this gorgeous reversible handbag, Julia loves handbags.

I used Timeless Portait Fabric.

Heres a close up of the clasp, I love these buttons which I got from a local shop.

Secret Sister Swap

2011-10-14T10:13:00.000+13:00

Over at Crafters Anonymous I took part in a Secret Sister Swap.

Today is the day we can show what we received.

I love what I received, thank you SS.

I think I know who sent it to me, I will wait and see if I am right.

I received a Notebook covered in striped DSP, I adore striped DSP.

The dark chocolate peanut slabs were very yummy and didn't last long at all.

The candles are vanilla scented and my craftroom smells lovely with them in it.

Here's the beautiful card that I received.

This bag is lovely, I love the fabric, and will come in very handy.

I am going to take a copy of this, to make toilet bags for the family.

Thanks very much SS.

Home Sweet Home

2011-10-11T19:32:00.000+13:00

Here's a card I made for the Lovely Bron Heslop and Family.

They have just moved into a new home.

This was another project from the 'Oh my Word Ustamp with Dawn and Friends' designed by Rosemarie Diehl.

Rosemarie used the Curly Label Punch which is still on my wish list, so I used Decorative Label Punch.

I punched it once then turned 90 degress and punched again.

To make the roof tiles I used Tasteful Trims Die.

I used Sahara Sand, Basic Grey, Marnia Mist and Whisper White Card Stock.

I used Vellum Card Stock for the windows.

The used the Tiny Tags Stamp with Lucky Limeade and Rose Red Stampin' Write Markers.

60th Anniversary

2011-10-10T21:09:00.001+13:00

Here's a card that I made for everyone at church to sign for Arthur and Olwyn's 60yh Wedding Anniversary.

Its a large card I used a whole sheet of A4 card to make this.

I have used Basic Grey, Cherry Cobbler and Whisper White Colour Combo.

I have used the Double Embossing Technique again I so love this technique.

I have left the inside very plain, I used the birthday verse from 'God's Blessing' Stamp Set and changed it to Happy Anniversary using 'Teeny Tiny Sentiments' Stamp Set.

Diamond Wedding Anniversary

2011-10-09T09:05:00.000+13:00

On Thursday Arthur and Olwyn, a young couple from church celebrated their 6oth Wedding Anniversary.

It's a pleasure to introduce you to Mr and Mrs A Barnes, I did say young couple they are young in spirit.

They are a delightful couple and I love their hugs.

We had a surprize luncheon for them, Gordon our Pastor picked them up and bought them out to the Powers House who kindly lent us their home for the day.

Here's all the official cards they recieved from the Queen, Prime Minster, Governor Genral , Local member of Parilment etc.

Here's the card I made fro them, I wanted it to be simply elegant and I think I achieved it.

I have used Crumb Cake, Soft Suede, Cherry Cobbler and Mocha Morning Specialty DSP.

Here's the inside, I have used God'd Blessings and changed from happy birthday to anniversary which is from Teeny Tiny Srentiments. I also used Soft Suede Marker and inked up only a corner of the Four Frames and stamped in each corner.

I made this matching box which has got an album inside.

Here's a close up of the rose, I love it. Tanya Bell made a Utube video this week on how to made these.

Go and check her blog HERE.

I made a Trishutter Album, which was designed Gilda Fellows for 'Oh My Word Ustamp with Dawn and Friends'.

I printed on my printer the middle panels, I found how change your ink settings so you can print in SU colours HERE, so I was able to print in Cherry Cobbler.

We had a fantastic day.

Flower of Scotland

2011-10-07T19:51:00.000+13:00

Today at Timaru Christian School they had a mufti day, everyone was encouraged to come dressed up as a Rugby World Cup supporter.

There was a sea of black and a fair amount of green and yellow (we have a lot of South Africans at school) and a few different supporters as well.

As soon as Samuel heard about today he was on the phone to Uncle Dave to ask if he could borrow his Scottish flag.

My youngest sister Sandra married a Scotsman, and she is the kiwi in the family, my other sister Heather and I are poms and we both married kiwis.

On Tuesday there was parcel in the post for Samuel, inside was the flag, face paint and beanie that he is been told to keep, he was so excited and today took a long time in arriving.

This is Samuel and Halle.

He had a great day, I don't think much work was achieved today.

We have 2 weeks of school holidays now, we love the holidays.

Thanks Sandra and Dave for making Samuel's day so special.

Here's a treat for you.

Have a great weekend.

Triple Layer Punch

2011-10-05T20:00:00.000+13:00

I was asked to make a thank you card for the PTA at TCS.

I have basiclly cased Nicole Derendorf (Aussie Demo) that she submitted for JAI challenge as a quest designer.

I loved the colour combo for the colour challenge for this week JAI challenge, Pool Party, Calyspo, Crumb Cake and Whisper White.

So I used it to make the thank you card for school.

I have used the New Triple Layer Punch Blossom Bouquet.

I have used Inlaid Embossing Technique, which works really well with this punch.

They only thing I changed was the sentiment.

Here's a video that Stampin' Up have produced on how to used these punches.

Happy Card Making Day

2011-10-01T22:49:00.000+13:00

Happy world cardmaking day :) may your inkpads always be juicy, your SNAIL full and your mojo free flowing ;)

My Friend Trina Leeson, made this up.

I love it, so I've cased it.

JAI 87

2011-09-30T22:39:00.000+13:00

I don't know how long it has been since I last took part in a JAI Challenge, life has just got in the way.

Sorry girls, here's this weeks Colour Challenge.

I love Calypso Coral it is my favourite 2011-2013 In Colour.

Today is Mrs Elliot (teacher aid at Samuel's school) birthday.

I only found out this morning, so I came home and checked JAI and decided it was about time to cross of my list of must do cards.

The Spring or Diamond Fold Card has been on my list for a while now.

I have 3 cards using this colour combo, Samuel chose the card above to give to Mrs Elliot, with her present of a bar of Caramello Chocolate and a tool caddy.

We visited her after we dropped the big kids of at youth group and ended up helping her eat her birthday cake, that Tammie (another parent from school) had made for her.

It was very yummy Tammie, Thanks.

I have used the Double Embossing Technique again.

I have used 'Tiny Tags and On Your Birthday' Stamp Sets.

I love these bows they are so easy to do, it's the way you fold the ribbon then you place a brad around it and like magic you have a bow.

Have a fantastic weekend.

Not to Late

2011-09-27T22:52:00.001+13:00

There is still 2 days to take advantage of the Mini Starter Kit.

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If yousaid “yes” to any of these then have you thought about purchasing the StampinUp Mini Kit??

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With Sympathy

2011-09-27T18:45:00.001+13:00

Alison Hydes (my upline) lost her mother to a long battle with cancer.

Here is the card I made for her and her family.

I have used the Double Emboss Technique, which I saw on Jacquelyn Pedersen blog last week.

The colour combo is a combo that Tina one of my costumers is going to use for her Christmas Cards.

Basic Gray, Cherry Cobbler, Sahara Sand, thanks Tina.

I have used Whisper White Craft Ink and Clear Embossing Powder.

I also used 'Two Tags Bigz Die' and Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding Ribbon which are both new to the new Idea Book and Catalogue.

My Craftroom

2011-09-26T23:54:00.001+13:00

Today it is South Canterbury Anniversary Day, so I stayed in bed to midday reading, then I finished sorting my craftroom.

Darian went out with the men from our church 4 wheel driving.

Paul was on call so had to stay in town, so he has been pottering around the pool getting it ready for the summer.

Savannah and Samuel were helping Dad.

I had to move my cardstock as the sun was bleaching it.

I have made a video of my craftroom.

Here is a video of my craft space, please be kind to me it is my first video.

Have a great week.

Inspired By My Dad

2011-09-25T21:03:00.001+13:00

When I had my first look through the new Idea Book and Catalogue and came across the new Stamp Set 'My Friend' I thought of my Dad, I just had to have it.

My Dad is often found out the front of Church, welcoming everyone on a Sunday morning and again on a Friday morning as families are arriving for mainly music.

Now if you were coming into church and he hasn't met you before (or hes forgotten your name), he would welcome you by saying "Hello My Friend".

So I have made this card with Dad in mind, in masculine colours.

I have used Early Espresso, Soft Suede, So Saffron and Very Vanilla.

I have embossed the droplet Stamp, then I used bleach in my Aqua Painter and painted the droplets.

Its a long weekend here in South Canterbury this weekend.

We have been pottering around home doing odd jobs, today Paul helped me change my craftroom around, tomorrow I will be doing the finishing touches to it after a lie in, as tomorrw is Anniversary day, so if you are in South Canterbury enjoy the rest of the weekend and to the rest of the country you all have a great week.

Oh Tiding of Comfort and Joy

2011-09-23T08:00:00.000+12:00

Here is another Christmas card I demonstrated at a recent workshop.

I have used 2 new Stamp Sets, 'Tidings of Joy' and 'My Friend'.

I have embossed the baubles from ' My Friend' SS in Clear Embossing Powder on the background Night of Navy Card Stock, I think they look like fairy lights hanging (if you look closely you can see it).

As soon as I saw this set I loved it, I have kept it simply just stamping it and leaving it plain, but it is a great set or colouring also.

I stamping sentiment on the strip of Crumb Cake and tied a piece of Hemp Twine in a reef knot for some pop.

I used Night of Navy, Crumb Cake and Whisper White colour combo.

My First Christmas Card

2011-09-22T20:04:00.000+12:00

Here's my first Christmas Card for the year.

I made it to match the box of tag in my last post.

I have used Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive, Chocolate Chip and Very Vanilla Colour Combo.

I adore Chocolate Chip in a Christmas card.

I have used Chocolate Chip Scallop Dots Ribbon, this is a gorgeous ribbon.

I have embossed the Decoration from 'Contempo Christmas' Stamp Set with the new Cherry Cobbler Embossing Powder and mounted it up on dimensionals for a bit of pop.

I used my favourite embossing folder Square Lattice.

The also used 'Baroque Motifs' Stamp Set, this is such a versatile set I like using the flourish on Christmas card it looks like the decoration is hanging on the tree.

Boxed Set of Christmas Tags

2011-09-17T20:24:00.000+12:00

I have had 3 workshops this week, this is what I made for the Hostess Gifts.

Bron Heslop designed this project for the I heart the holidays round of Ustamp with Dawn and Friends.

I have changed dimensions of the box and decorated differently.

Here are the tags, I love the penguin I used the Owl Punch to make him.

These have gone down well.

Samuel's Favourite Page is....

2011-09-16T21:17:00.004+12:00

...... 59 in the New Idea Book and Catalogue.

He loves both the Dinoroar and I Dig You Stamp Sets.

He is going to Joshua's 7th Birthday Party tomorrow.

So I have used Dinoroar Stamp Set for the birthday card.

I have used my Brayer and Sponges to do the back ground.

I stamped the dinosaurs on Water Colour Paper and used Aqua Painters to colour them.

I got my inspiration for the colours of the dinosaurs from Land Before Time characters.

Darian use to love these videos, with the adventures of Littlefoot, Cera, Petrie.

I sponged and placed Chomper in the inside of the card.

Spring had arrived....

2011-09-03T20:55:00.000+12:00

.... early in our house.

When my parcel arrived from Emma, and I saw the 2 stamp sets and all the bits she sent me I thought...

...SPRING.

The first project that popped into my mind was a Topiary.

So I set about making my own Designer Series Paper using Flower Fest Stamp Set and the 2011-2012 In Colours.

These are fun to make, and well worth the effort.

Flower Fest is a set of 8, 4 flowers, a butterfly with a separate body and 2 leaves.

The flowers and the butterfly have punches to match them.

I carried this in my hand luggage to Auckland.

I gave this to Bron Heslop to adorn her new craftroom when she shifts in 3 weeks time.

I am now in the middle of making another for our team meeting on Wednesday.

Hope you are having good weekend and you have had time to add ink to a stamp or two.

As Promised

2011-09-02T13:18:00.001+12:00

I have promised to come back and tell you about my travels to and from Auckland last weekend.

On Friday going to Christchurch Airport we got held up in traffic and I was the last passenger to arrive, and I had been bumped off.

They had taken 3 seat away, so a nice man booked me on the next flight and gave me a voucher for a coffee.

So I had an extra 1 1/2 hour wait for my flight., but I still arrived on the same day that I was meant to be there.

The lovely Bron and 2 gorgeous pjamma \clad boys picked me up from the airport.

Saturday we had AB FAB day, there was some great demos and everyone got to play with lots of new products.

Here's another Flower Pot Card.

For this card I have used all the new In Colours 2011-2013.

I love them all but my favourite is Calypso Coral.

On Sunday I went to church with Bron and family, it was great and so welcoming.

We had a quick lunch then headed to the airport.

We arrived about 2 - 5 minutes late for check in for the flight and they had closed the check in.

So cut a long story short I had to join air points, then had to buy a Standby ticket.

I went from one departure gate to the next all Sunday afternoon, all the flights were full but some were getting on them.

Bron was waiting also incase I didn't get on a flight, which I didn't that day, so I had another night at Bron's.

Now I had to be back at the airport for 9am, but as you will be well aware that is impossible when you are an hour away from the airport and you have kids that need to be at school and preschool.

So Bron and I got up at 5am Monday and were on the road by 5.20am heading for the airport.

It was just as well I had a good book with me to read while waiting.

On Sunday there had been a Jetstar flight to CHCH cancelled so there were lots of passengers stranded.

10am flight went by so did the 11am and 12noon there was standby passengers getting on them, but Katherine and myself who had been waiting since Sunday were still waiting.

After the 12noon flight left with standbys on, I got very frustrated to say the lest and I was very vocal about been there since Sunday.

The staff heard me and spoke to Katherine and myself about trying his hardest to get us on the next flight.

So the 1pm flight arrived all the passengers boarded then 2 more did yes Katherine and myself were on that flight.

I was meant to be travelling back to Timaru on the early morning Intercity Bus, which I missed due to been on standby, my Mum had phoned Intercity to say I would be on the bus.

They got me to fax through my Standby docoments and my fare was transfered for Tuesday.

When I got home in the post was this TShirt.

I so needed that on Sunday and Monday in the Auckland airport. LOL

So that's how I lost a day this week.

Have a great weekend.

Gone Live

2011-09-01T11:42:00.000+12:00

Yay, it's 1st September, Brand New Idea Book & Catalogue CLICK HERE to download.

The IB&C just get better every year, it is stunning.

I love the 5 new In Colours, and of course we still have last years In Colours.

Contact me to get copy.

Also Stampin' Up has just announced a Brand New Promotion for the Month.

During September, you can join the Stampin’ Up! family as a demonstrator for only $189! The limited-time mini Starter Kit—valued at over $340—comes with the high-quality products listed below:

$189 Mini Starter Kit

Easy Events Clear-Mount Set*
Pennant Parade Wood-Mount Set*
Basic Black Classic Stampin’ Pad
Old Olive Classic Stampin’ Pad
Pumpkin Pie Classic Stampin’ Pad
Real Red Classic Stampin’ Pad
A4 Smooth Card Stock Assortment
Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper*
Chocolate Chip 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon*
Notes Cards (20)
Clear-Mount Block C
Blender Pen (1)
SNAIL Adhesive
Business supplies

*New to the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalogue
Or, if you want the full Starter Kit, you can get it 20 percent off during September only! That’s over $725 worth of premium Stampin’ Up! products and business supplies for just $271.20!
See what’s included in the full Starter Kit here.

This the card I demo at the Big Day Out on Saturaday in Auckland.

It's a Flower Pot Card, I have used lots of new goodies to create this.
I used 'Build a Blossom' and 'Parlor Prints' Stamps, Build a Blossom has a matching Punch and is so much fun to play with.
I have embossed the flowers with the new Cherry Cobbler and Wild Wasabi Embossing Powders.

This has turned in to a long post, I will come back to tell you more about the weekend soon.

Have a great day!

Puzzles

2011-08-29T17:47:00.001+12:00

Sorry all I had set this up to prepost on Saturday, I don't know why it didn't?
We had a great weekend even though I have had hick ups with my travel, I will fill you in tomorrow when I get home.
I'm staying with Bron Heslop this weekend in Auckland.
Here's what I have made for her 2 boys.

I have made some puzzles for them using Choo Choo and Animal Stories Stamp Sets, both of these sets are retiring.

Jamies is 6, he is 6 weeks older than our Samuel, Ollie is 4.

I put them into cellophane bags and made Top Note toppers for them.

Samuel wanted to come with me to Auckland so he could play with James and Ollie, I have promised him that I will take him to Auckland some other time.

Thanks Bron for everything you did for me.
Your boys are gorgeous.

On my Way...

2011-08-25T10:05:00.000+12:00

....Today I start of on my travels north, for the first leg of the journey I'm staying with Mum and Dad in Christchurch.

Tomorrow afternoon I fly to Auckland, I'm staying with the lovely Bron, so looking forward to be meeting you and your family.

Saturday is the Stampin' Up Day Out.

I have my project all prepped and ready to go.

This is a sneak peek and yes I have made it blurry, sorry girls I know I'm a tease, But that life LOL.

I just need to finish my packing now, there's a chicken in the slow cooker for tea tonight and a large container of macaroni cheese and plenty in the freezer to feed the family, I will be back home on Monday.

If I get time later today I will do a post for Saturday, but I'm not promising so If it doesn't happen.

You'll have a great weekend I am I will back on Tuesday with lots to show you.

Tidy

2011-08-23T21:27:00.000+12:00

I finished my swaps last night, I will show you later.

Today I had a tidy up in my craftroom, here's the photos to prove it.

I even cleaned my tables with Stazon Cleaner, yes you heard right its fantastic for getting rip of sticky messes.

When I was cleaning I came across this card that I hadn't blogged.

I made this card at a recent workshop, the colours are not me but the ladies loved it.

Tomorrow I have to do my final prep for the weekend.

Have a great day.

This is your Life....

2011-08-21T08:24:00.001+12:00

...Mrs Dillon.

Mrs Dillon was Darian and Savannah's Principal at Bradford School Dunedin.

About 2 ago weeks there was a comment on my blog to email Mrs Mitchel-Bain (D & S's new entrant teacher).

When Mrs MB replied she told us that Mrs D was leaving Bradford School and they were doing a farewell for her with a this is your life component to it and wondered if Darian or Savannah would like to be involved.

They jumped at the opportunity to get to Dunedin to catch up with old friends.

It was originally planned for last Tuesday, but it was postsponded because of the snow, the kids were very disappointed, but Friday was arranged for the night..

So on Friday D and S had the day off school, we travelled down after dropping Samuel of at school (he stayed at his friend's Ashley in Temuka and had a birthday party to go yesterday).

We had a great night and a good time catching up with old friends.

Thanks Mrs D for all the input into all our life's, you will be sorely missed at Bradford.

We wish all best for your move to Christchurch and for your new job at Merrin School, they are getting a wonderful principal.

Thanks Mrs MB for contacting us, and we wish you all the best as you try to fill Mrs D's shoes or should I say boots. You will make a great principal.

Quick Birthday Card

2011-08-18T21:03:00.000+12:00

Samuel has a birthday party to go on Saturday, his friend Daniel turned 6 on Tuesday.

So here is the CAS (clean and simple).

I have used Petite Pennant Builder Punch, it's fab.

Here's the inner.

Only one week away to The Big Day Out in Auckland.

I have been making my swaps, I have 64 swaps in various stages of completion.

But I did make my name badge today.

I will show you these after the event.

I off to Dunedin tomorrow with Darian and Savannah.

So have a great weekend all.

Messy or Tidy

2011-08-12T16:51:00.001+12:00

Well I'm a messy, I wish I could be more tidy not a neat feat but somewhere in between would be great.

Heres 2 photos of my tables in my craftroom today, I'm getting to the stage where I will need to tidy before I do anything else, I now can't find things.

Sorry for my absence, I have been very busy crafting, I can't share it with you yet (if I did I would have to shoot you LOL) sorry.

I have been asked to demo in Auckland at the Big Day Out it's now only 2 weeks away, I so excited looking forward to meetiong my follower SU demos whose blogs I follow and CA members.

Emma has sent me some supplies out of the 2011-2012 Idea Book and Catalogue, I was so excited when the courier man arrived it was like Christmas.

So I have been working on my projects and I have still got to get my swaps made.

I will try to get back here soon, but don't hold it against if it's a while.

Have a great weekend all, hope get a chance to put to ink to a stamp.

Cascade Card

2011-08-04T21:42:00.000+12:00

Monday Night at CA, the Lovely Julia Leece taught to made Cascade Cards.

I needed to make a baby girl card so I chose Lap of Luxury DSP (all DSP is retiring).

It is very girly, and it's definely not me but I do like it.

I have used Beautiful Wings Embosslit and Beautiful Butterflies Die, the Stamp is from Ocassional Quotes Level 3 Hostess Set.

I have of course added a bit of bling using the Basic Rhinestones.

Don't forget to check the Retiring List Here.

Stocking is selling out, contact today to order yours.

CraftyHelen has been crafting again.

2011-08-03T21:49:00.001+12:00

I'm back.

Our house is back to normal.

We helped shift Jan and Kodi on the weekend in a nice wee house, so Savannah can have her bedroom back and the van can sleep in the garage again.

I got some crafting done yesterday and today YEAH.

With me not crafting for so long I haven't done any challenges lately, there are two challenge site I love so I have combined them for this card.

I have used the Sketch from Try Stampin' On Tuesday #26.

And the Colour Challenge from Just Add Ink # 78.

Here is what I came up with.

The card sort of evolved as I went on, the colours didn't smoke my tyres, but I really pleased with the end result.

I brayered the Square Lattice Embossing Folder.

I made the vase using Contempo Christmas Stamp and matching Punch, I love it.

I have used Petal Pizzazz and Tiny Tags Stamp Sets.

Petal Pizzazz is on the retiring list, It's a great set, contact me to order yours because after 31st August you will no longer be able to get it.

Here's the inside, I used Apple Blossom level 2 Hostess Set.

It not to late to ring and book a workshop so you earn this before the end of the month because it will be retiring also.

Say Goodbye

2011-08-01T22:20:00.000+12:00

Today Stampin' Up have given us the retiring list

It’s time to say goodbye!

Hundreds of products from the 2010-2011 Idea Book & Catalogue are retiring, and now is the time for you to get them before they’re gone.

You can view the list HERE, it will be updated every morning 10am NZST.

Only stocks last so email me or ring me today to place your order.

I am taking preorders for the 2011-2012 Idea Book and Catalogue, $12 (RRP $15.95) plus postage if required or book a workshop in September and get one for free.

Our Christchurch Visit

2011-07-28T21:35:00.002+12:00

Friday Savannah, Samuel and myself went to Christchurch.

On Saturday I held a craft day in Christchurch.

We were smaller in numbers this time, but we all had a great day.

The day was a cold day so it was a great day to be inside where it was nice and warm spending the day crafting.

While we were crafting Samuel and Grandad spent the day together, they had McDonald's for lunch, then they fed the ducks, visited the air force museum and parked at the back of the airport to watch planes comings and going.

We made the same projects, as the ladies who attended the Jamboree Fundraiser Crop which you can view in this post HERE.

Sunday we went to church, then had a family day (both my sisters and Jessica my niece) we played games all afternoon, lots of fun and laughter was had by all.

We had dinner at the George's ( Savannah's Godparents), Mark cooked a lovely roast dinner.

We had a lovely evening, as we were going home to Granny and Grandad's house, it was starting to snow and it was laying on the parked cars.

Samuel was so excited and didn't want to come inside.

This is what we woke up too, about 6" of snow.

Samuel wanted be outside as he got up, but I said he had to have breakfast first.

So breakfast was quickly got out the way, he woke his sister then they headed outside to play.

I stayed in bed with breakfast and a book.

I did got outside for a bit, but I had only packed my boots which are not the best in the snow, so I didn't stay out for long.

We didn't pack gumboots, so Samuel is sporting the plastic shopping bag over his sneakers and gloves.

Savannah is making a snowman.

Here is the finished snowman named Darian after their brother as he stayed in Timaru with Dad, and they got 2 seconds of snow if you blinked you missed it in Timaru.

Here's my favourite photo.

After lunch they went for a walk with Auntie Heather and Jessica and helped with the building of an igloo in the park.

Then we got the slides and protector out and had a afternoon watching slides of a great mixture of pics, some of them were of England and our voyage over on the ship and scout camps and of Liethfield Beach where we used to camp in the 70's.

It was a great afternoon with lots of memories.

Filling In Time Shopping

2011-07-21T13:04:00.001+12:00

It's school holidays here in NZ.

Yesterday the van was at the mechanics getting the suspension fixed, so Samuel, Savannah and myself had to fill in time shopping.

First we did jobs that needed doing, then Samuel went to the barbers for a haircut.

He thinks he is pretty cool with the Mohawk.

We had Subway for lunch.

Then we went shoe shopping, Samuel needed new sneakers (trainers), Savannah got some boots and I got myself a pair off shoes also.

Her boots are Riding Hood Red, they a beautiful but 1 size too small for me, isn't that sad.

When we got home we made some earrings to match them, using the Jewellery Tag Punch and Tiny Tags Stamp Set.

On Saturday Samuel, Dad and Myself went to see Cars 2, it was a great movie, Samuel is so into cars at the moment.

He was looking through some of Darian's (big brother) play station games and found a cars computer game, so he wants to play it all the time now.

Silent Auction Tonight

2011-07-15T11:06:00.001+12:00

Tonight is the GirlGuiding Timaru District Silent Auction

Jamboree Fundraiser details below, it will a fantastic night come and support the girls.

I have made lots of things for tonight.

Please if you are in Timaru or surounding area come and support the girl to get them to Jamboree.

SILENT AUCTION

Friday 15th July - 7pm @ Woodlands Road Church Hall

GirlGuide Jamboree Fundraiser

Silent Auctions are so much fun- if you have never been to one I throughly recommend it!!

Massive amount of items up for sale, bids from 50c

Lots of bargains, vouchers, baking, anything and everything

There will be a table of kids stuff for them to bid on too, bids in rises of 20c

$5 for adults $2 for children - entry fee includes light supper and a cuppa

Come along and support this fun event and take home some awesome stuff!!

Seeing Stars

2011-07-13T21:03:00.001+12:00

A quick post, as I was at A&E all night last night with a girlfriend so I have only had a few hours sleep.

I had hoped to post this last night, so better late than never.

Monday at Crafters Anon we made (or I should I say the girls made), I wrote out the instructions and watched these AB FAB Star Cards.

I have been wanting to have a go at them since I have been seeing them on lots of blogs.

I have used my Party Blossom Die, I'm loving this die and have soooo got my moneys worth out of it, I used Ornament Punch for the leaves and ran then through the crimper.

I have used Love Letter DSP, with Soft Suede and Crumb Cake Card Stock.

I not quite happy with it, I have just ordered Jewelry Tag Punch and Tiny Tags Stamp Set, so when it all arrives I might add some tags to finish it.

It was so nice to get back into my craftroom yesterday.

We still have my friend and her son staying with us, we are looking a couple of houses for them to rent tomorrow. Life has been busy around here.

Friend to Friend Part 2

2011-07-05T19:55:00.000+12:00

Here's the gift that I made for Patricia.

I made her a Zip Brooch, which I made first hence the colour combo I chose for the card in my last post and the Peek a Boo Box for the Brooch to sit in.

This the lid of the box, I used Blossom Party Die to make the flower, I love how versatile the Bigz Dies are as you can see I ran some lace through it.

Inside of the Peek a Boo Box.

Friend to Friend

2011-07-02T22:52:00.000+12:00

I have taken part in a Ustamp with Dawn and Friends Blog Hop Friend to Friend Swap.

My swap partner is Patricia Weitzel.

I posted her parcel last friday and I got a email yesterday from her to tell me it had already arrived.

Wow that was fast, here was me worrying about the ash clouds delaying it.

We have to make a card and a 3d item.

Here's what I sent to Patricia.

We made these easel card in an online class at Crafters Anonymous.

I love Party Blossom Die which I used to made this card, with the Shimmer Pastel Technique.

I have used Not Quite Navy, Bravo Burgundy and Whisper White.

I will be back to show the box and gift that I made Patricia.

Full House Our House

2011-06-30T21:22:00.002+12:00

Boy oh boy has this been a busy week.

Wednesday till Monday I was helping out friend and was looking after her shop while she was at senz.

Tuesday Savannah had an Optometrist appointment in Christchurch.

Last week we had a Friend and her 14 year old son moved in, they have moved from Nelson and will be here till they are get on their own feet.

I am her support person and have been taking them to appointments.

It's been good catching up as it has been 3 years since we have seen each other.

I haven't had time to get into my craftroom, I'm hoping to get in there tomorrow and Saturday.

Here's the latest Jamboree Fundraiser.

This will be a great evening.

SILENT AUCTION

FRIDAY 15^TH JULY

7PM START

WOODLANDS ROAD CHURCH HALL

$5 ADULTS $2 CHILDREN

(INCLUDES LIGHT SUPPER)

BIDS FROM 50c

CHILDRENS TABLE FROM 20c

COME ALONG & HAVE THE CHANCE TO TAKE HOME SOME AMAZING BARGAINS – MASSIVE AMOUNT OF ITEMS!!

GIRLGUIDE JAMBOREE FUNDRAISER

Sneak Peak

2011-06-27T21:05:00.000+12:00

Here's a sneak peek at what I was working on last week as a Friend to Friend Swap for Ustamp.

A very quick post tonight, sorry.

Baby Boy

2011-06-26T14:07:00.000+12:00

I have had 2 friends have baby boy's in the last two weeks.

I finally got around to making there cards yesterday, I used TST Sketch Challenge #20.

The card is very similar to Kristen (DT), when I say her card I knew it would make a great baby card.

This is the first time I have made a step card.

I don't really have any baby stamps so I used Animals Stories and Occasional Quotes (Level 3 Hostess) Stamp Sets.

I think this giraffe is quite cute.

I have used Marina Mist, Bashful Blue and So Saffron.

Look What I Found...

2011-06-25T22:02:00.001+12:00

When I was having a big sort out of my photos last night.

This is a project that Paula Dobson designed for Ustamp Big Shot Brillance Round.

It was one of the projects that I could reproduce as I had all the dies etc, I enjoyed the round but there was so many dies that we haven't got here in NZ.

I will be set when we get new dies.

We made this in April at my Hornby Craft Day.

I love these flowers made with the Heart Punch.

I love the Clean and Simple card.

This wee walet holds a chocolate bar.

Thanks Paula for your inspiration.

Zip Brooch

2011-06-24T21:50:00.001+12:00

Just a quick post tonight.

Here's another brooch.

This is the first brooch that I had made.

I have made a couple more this week, one I have posted to USA as part of a Friend to Friend Swap (I will show you them once Patricia received it) and the other for a friend who has bought one of me.

Happy Birthday Sandra

2011-06-23T22:29:00.001+12:00

Today is my youngest sister Sandra's birthday.

Here's her card that I have made for her.

Her favourite colour is purple so I used Elegant Eggplant and Whisper White to make this Tri Fancy Fold Card.

Here is the centre piece, I made a star using two lots of squares.

This was not my idea, I was teaching this card to a group of friends the other week and Barbara stamped her image straight on not on the diagonal as I had stamped it and she came up this idea.
Thanks Barbara.

Happy Birthday Sandra.

Family Fun Quiz Night

2011-06-22T22:49:00.000+12:00

FAMILY FUN QUIZ NIGHT

GIRLGUIDE JAMBOREE FUNDRAISER

SATURDAY 25^TH JUNE

SOUTH SCHOOL HALL

DOORS OPEN 6PM STARTS 6.30PM

$5 PP MAX 6 IN A TEAM

LIGHT SUPPER PROVIDED

TICKETS: AT BARRETT JOINERY OR

RHONDA MARTIN 688 3067

FAMILY FRIENDLY QUESTIONS

FANTASTIC PRIZES

NO DOOR SALES

Come and join us on Saturday evening, make up a team you will be in for a great night.

Motorbike Birthday Card

2011-06-21T19:46:00.002+12:00

Here's another card I made on Saturday, using the Motorcycle Stamp.

I stamped it in Stazon Black Ink onto Watercolour Paper, them I used Cherry Cobbler with a highlight of White Frost Shimmer Paint for the body of the bike and Platinum Shimmer Paints for the chrone with Aquapainters.
I'm going to enter this in JAI 72 Just Add Colouring In.

Cherry Cobbler, Soft Suede and Whisper White Card Stock.

I'm loving my Tasteful Trims XL Die, I used it to make the large Scallops.

Here's the inside, I like to bring a element from the front to the inside.

Fancy Fold Card

2011-06-20T22:57:00.002+12:00

Here's a card that I made on Saturday.

It's a fancy fold card, Karyn had made one so I cased her card.

Here's the first one I made and I'm not happy with it, I have got my measurements wrong and it is sitting crooked.

I said on Saturday that I wouldn't blog it, and all the girls said they would leave comments asking were it is.

So Jennie and co here it is, now you had better leave comments as I have posted it just for you girls.

Here's the inner.

I have used Old Olive, Cajun Craze, Early Espresso, More Mustard, Very Vanilla Card Stock and Autumn Spice Specialty DSP.

Scallop Envelope Box

2011-06-19T20:50:00.000+12:00

We made these Boxes yesterday at the Crop as one of the make 'n' takes.

The girls loved them.

Below is the same box with 2 vintage brads for the closure on the box.

Kathy came up with idea, isn't she clever.

Thanks for sharing Kathy.

Tracey Old made the boxes for Ustamp with Dawn and Friends Blog Hop.

Go check out her blog HERE.

Thanks Tracey for a fab tutorial.

Here's the card we also made yesterday as a make 'n' take.

Todays Crop.

2011-06-18T23:39:00.000+12:00

Today was the Fundraiser Crop for GirlGuide Jamboree.

We had a fantastic Day, we were small in numbers, but we all had fun and have made new crafting friends along the way.

We have laughed and teased each other all day (and Karyn my tongues in my mouth).

Thanks Girls.

Here's the girls at hard at work.

Christine is working on her make 'n' take Scallop Envelope Box, Vicki's working on a album.

Kathy, Karyn and Tania working on their make 'n' takes.

Thanks girls for a fantastic day and for making the day a success.

I will be back soon with photos of the make 'n' takes and the cards I got made today.

Sneak Peak

2011-06-16T22:39:00.003+12:00

I have had a very busy week preparing for the GirlGuide Fundraiser Crop this Saturday.

Here's a sneak peek at one of the make 'n' takes.

Come and spend the day crafting with me, there is still room for you to join me.

GirlGuide Jamboree

Fundraiser Crop

18th June 2011

At Artfull Crafts George Street opposite BNZ bank.

10am till 10pm.

Tickets $20 available from Artfull Crafts.

Limited to 30 places so be in quick.

This includes Morning and Afternoon Tea, Pizza Dinner,

2 Make ‘n’ Takes and Demos.

Bring your current projects and supplies you will need,

and lunch.

The shop will be open all day.

Silent Auction of Stampin’ Up Retired Products.

Contact: 688 8566

Black and White

2011-06-15T12:01:00.000+12:00

Are you a black and white person?

I think you are or you are not.

Well I'm not.

This week's challenge at JAI 71 is Black and White.

I have been thinking about since first seeing the challenge on Friday.

It inspired me to make a brooch in black and white.

It is made using zips and button, I also added some Blossom Party flowers in black fabric and white lace.

Then after seeing this weeks 'Try Stampin' on Tuesdays' Sketch Challenge # 19, I decided to make black and white card inspired by the brooch.

Here's the card.

I needed an Engagement Card for Miss Carter (one of the teachers at Samuel's school).

Here's the flower I used that was inspired from the brooch.

I made my own ribbon and lace using the Tasteful Trim Bigz XL Die and Big Shot Mutlipurpose Adhesive Sheets, I stamped Baroque Motifs in Basic Black then added Frost White shimmer Paint.

I'm very pleased with it and it came together quite quickly in the end.

Inspiration Challenge

2011-06-14T21:48:00.000+12:00

Here's a card I made for a Inspiration Challenge at Unconvention.

This the picture we were given to get inspiration from.

Here's the card I made.

I used my brayer, Sponges and used the ink pads directly onto the Glossy White Card Stock.

Jessica's Birthday

2011-06-13T21:34:00.000+12:00

Today is Jessica's (our niece) birthday, she is 18.

We when to Christchurch for a party on Saturday.

It was a great night.

Here's her Gift and Card.

As you can see I got my inspiration for her card from the tool caddy I made her.

I filled the caddy with some basic tools for her, Bone Folder, Mat Pack, Paper Piecer and Hello Blossom Stamp.

This a fantastic single stamp which is great for both card making and scrapbooking and looks fantastic when you use the markers direct to the stamp.

I have make this fancy fold card for her and used Every Moment and Bring on the Cake Stamp Sets.

This another fantastic Stamp Set.
Happy Birthday Jessica.
We hope you aren't shaken about to much tonight.
My prayers are with everyone in Christchurch, my family are all ok.
We felt the quakes down here it was very scary and I know what we feel is nothing compared to what they feel in Christchurch.

Gift Vouchers

2011-06-12T10:00:00.003+12:00

I was asked recently if I do Gift Vouchers.

The answer is YES I do.

Maureen wanted to give my niece Jessica a Stampin' Up Voucher for her 18th birthday.

So here is what I made for Maureen to give to Jessica.

Supplies List

Stamp Set: Bring on the Cake (Autumn- Winter mini).

Card: Pear Pizzazz, Concord Crush and Whisper White.

Ink: Bashful Blue, Pear Pizzazz and Concord Crush.

Extras: Big Shot, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, Concord Crush 1/2" Stitched-Poly Ribbon and Stampin' Dimensionals.

If you have Crafter friends birthdays etc coming up and you would like to get them a Personalised Gift Voucher, look no farther.

Contact me today for yours.

Both Jessica and Maureen were very happy with theirs.

Cards for a Cure

2011-06-11T10:00:00.003+12:00

Here's my recreation of Tammy Maxvill Cards for a Cure that she designed for UWDAF Classes, Clubs and Camps.

Of course it's using Strength and Hope Stamp Set.

I just adore this set and with every set bought Stampin' Up are donating $2 per set to Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Contact me today to order your set.

I used Blushing Bride, Crumb Cake, Early Espresso and Very Vanilla.

This card is Baja Breeze, Crumb Cake, Early Espresso and Very Vanilla.

It's a box set 4 cards in Blushing Bride and 4 cards in Baja Breeze with matching Envelopes and book marks.

I have made this set for a GirlGuide Jamboree Silent Auction that we will be holding in July.

So if you would like this Gift Set you will have come and bit for it.

I will give you more detail closer to the time.

Inspired by....

2011-06-10T10:00:00.002+12:00

I have been making more Tool Caddies this week, see my original post HERE.

I was inspired by the fabric I was using to make this week's Try Stampin' on Tuesdays Sketch 18 Challenge.

So here's the sketch.

I love this sketch, it's AB FAB for someone like me who mats their mats.

Here's a close up of the daisy from Every Moment Stamp Set, with just a touch of bling, next the tool caddy that inspired it.

Here's the whole card.

I love it.

As I was sewing the caddy I was thinking about the colours, as it is so close to Poppy Parade, Garden Green and Whisper White so of course they are colours I have used for the card.

Supplies List

Stamp Sets: Every Moment and Silhouette Sentiments.

Paper: Poppy Parade, Garden Green, Whisper White, DSP Paper Pack - In Colour (level 1 Hostess)

Ink: Whisper White Craft Pad, Garden Green Stampin' Write Marker

Extras: Basic Pearls, White Gel Pen, Stampin' Dimensionals

We are off to Christchurch this afternoon for our Nieces 18th Birthday bash.

I have pre posted some posts for you, I know you are all in shock that I have posted everyday so far this month.

I don't know how long it will last so just sit back and relax and enjoy while it does.

Quick and Easy

2011-06-09T11:47:00.001+12:00

Here are some quick and easy Thank You Cards.

I have used 'For Everything' Stamp Set, I used the Emerging Pastel Technique.
I used Rose Red, Rich Razzleberry, Tangerine Tango and Marina Mist.

I love this Stamp Set and it's great for this technique.

Supplies List

Stamp Sets: For Everything, Because I Care (level 1 Hostess)

Card Stock: Whisper White

Ink: VersaMark

Extras: Stampin' Pastels

Contact me today to order your set.

Circle Card for JAI 70

2011-06-08T20:05:00.000+12:00

Here's this weeks JAI 70 Sketch Challenge.

When I saw this I knew straight away that I had to use my Scallop Circle Bigz Die, that I have had for a month or so and hadn't used yet.

Then I thought I must make a Scallop Circle Easel Card, that Bronwyn Eastley does so well.

I didn't want to use colours I that I use a lot, so I went to the projects from Ustamp with Dawn and Friends Oh My Word projects and found this colour combo that Ilina Crouse used and challenged myself to used it.

My Circle Scissors also got a good workout.

I have used Shimmering Pastel Technique again, I'm loving this technique.

I also adding Dazzling Diamonds in the centre of the flowers.

Supplies List

Stamp Sets: Fifth Avenue Floral, Strength and Hope, Because I Care (level 1 Hostess).

Card Stock: Bravo Burgundy, Certainly Celery, Marina Mist, Very Vanilla.

Ink: Marina Mist, Certainly Celery.

Extras: Big Shot, Circle Scissors Plus, Scallop Circle Bigz Die, Marina Mist 1/4' Grosgrain Ribbon, Clear Rhinestone Brad, Dazzling Diamonds, Stampin' Dimenionals.

GirlGuide Fundraiser Crop Day

2011-06-07T09:34:00.000+12:00

GirlGuide Jamboree

Fundraiser Crop

18th June 2011

At Artfull Crafts George Street opposite BNZ bank.

10am till 10pm.

Tickets $20 available from Artfull Crafts.

Limited to 30 places so be in quick.

This includes Morning and Afternoon Tea, Pizza Dinner,

2 Make ‘n’ Takes and Demos.

Bring your current projects and supplies you will need,

and lunch.

Contact: 688 8566

My Pocket of Pastels

2011-06-06T07:34:00.002+12:00

I have really enjoyed this round of Ustamp with Dawn and Friends Classes, Clubs and Camps.

The tutorials have been outstanding.

Here is my recreation of Tanya Bell's My Pocket of Pastels, go check her blog here she is amazing artist.

This is a album with 10 Techniques to use your Stampin' Pastels.

I got my Stampin' Pastel with my starter kit and I hadn't used them a lot because I didn't many techniques for them.

I have used my Pastels in nearly every card since making this.

The album is made with envelopes and in each is a sample of the technique.

Colouring Technique, This will look familiar to the Every Moment Thank You Card I made the other day.

Checkerboard Technique.

Popping Pastels Technique.

Shimmer Pastels Technique.

Chalkboard Technique.

Sponge Burst Technique.

Embossing Pastels Technique.

Pastel Highlight Technique.

Emerging Pastels Technique.

The 10th technique is Stained Glass Technique.

I haven't done this technique as I didn't have any vellum, it's on order so I will be making it later in the week, I will be back with it later.

I have used lots of different Stamp Sets to make these.

Stamps: Petal Pizzazz, Every Moment, Just Believe, For Everything, Nature Walk, Bring on the Cake and Oval All.

This was a great project, and now I'm using my Pastels so much more.

Thanks Tanya for the inspiration, you are awesome.

Team Swaps

2011-06-05T07:27:00.001+12:00

Here are the team swaps from First Kiwi Stampers Mini Convention.

Jenny's

Manda's

Cherryl's

Sharyn's

Glenda's

Angela's

Jo's

Lisa's

Rebecca's

Sonia's

Cindy's

Pauline's

Trina's

Carolyn's

Every Moment Thank You

2011-06-04T14:12:00.000+12:00

Here's a thank you card I popped in the post yesterday.

I have used the Try Stampin' on Tuesday Sketch for this card, as soon as I saw this sketch I knew what I was going to do.

It is very similar to another card I have done very resently, which I have still show you (soon I promise).

I love this Stamp Set, I have coloured it with Stampin' Pastels, Garden Green, So Saffron, Rose Red.

I'm enjoying my Stampin' Pastels, I have just learnt some new techniques for them.

Here's the inside I wanted it CAS (clean and simple).

Supplies List

Stamp Sets: Every Moments, Just Believe.

Card Stock: Early Espresso, Garden Green, Rose Red, Whisper White, Watercolour Paper.

Ink: Stazon Black, Early Espresso,Garden Green.

Extras: Mat Pack, Paper Piecer, 1 3/8" Circle and Scallop Cirle Punches, Blender Pens, Stampin' Pastels, Stampin' Dimensionals, Big Shot, Square Lattice Embossing Folder.

Its a long weekend here in NZ we celebrate Queen's Birthday on Monday.

We have a quite weekend planned.

Hope you are enjoying your weekend and get some time to put ink to a stamp or two.

Big Thank You!

2011-06-03T11:12:00.001+12:00

At our Mini Convention last Saturday we had prize patrol.

Which was all made possible by Em sending us some AB FAB prizes.

I'm told when you go to convention there is different colours labels on your names, so we did the same.

I won a Basic Black Ink Pad, which will come in very handy.

Here is the Thank You Card I have made on behalf of the First Kiwi Stampers.

It's my take on Alison's Make 'n' Take that she presented (in my last post).

I have changed it to work with what I had on hand (as you do).

I have coloured my flower in Cherry Cobbler Stampin' Pastel then added Frost White Shimmer Paint.

White or Vanilla ribbon didn't look right, so I used my Spritzer Tool (yay I have found it) on White Taffeta Ribbon with Cherry Cobbler Marker.

Here's the inside.

I hope that hits the mark Team, I'm very pleased with it.

Supplies List

Stamp Sets: Fifth Avenue Floral, Just Believe, Occasional Quotes.

Card Stock: Early Espresso, Not Quite Navy, Cherry Cobbler, Confetti White.

Inks: Early Espresso, Not Quite Navy, Not Quite Navy Marker,Cherry Cobbler Marker.

Extras: Frost white shimmer Paint, Stampin' Pastels,Spritzer Tool, Paper Cutter, Boho Blossom Punch, Basic Pearl, White Taffeta Ribbon, Sticky Strip.

Mini Convention Make 'n' Takes

2011-06-02T08:14:00.001+12:00

At the Mini Convention on Saturday we had 2 Make 'n' Takes, and 2 Wows presented.

Alison Hydes did the first Make 'n' Take.

Stamp set: Fifth Avenue Floral, Just Believe.
Paper: Early espresso, Cherry Cobbler, Not Quite Navy, Natural Ivory
Ink: Cherry Cobbler, Early Espresso, Not Quite Navy.
Accessories: Spritzer, Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon,Itty Bitty Punch Pack, Jewels, Champagne Shimmer Mist, Stampin' Write Markers; Not Quite Navy, Early Espresso, Sticky Strip.

Sharyn Robertson did the Second Make 'n' Take.

Stamp set: Strength and Hope, Oval All.
Paper: Crumb Cake, Soft Suede, Very Vanilla, Elegant Soiree DSP.
Ink: Crumb Cake, Soft Suede
Accessories: Big Shot, Scallop Envelope Die, Elegant Bouquet Embossing Folder, Oval large and Scallop Oval Punches, Very Vanilla Satin Ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals.

Thanks girls I love both of these and will be using both of them in Workshops.

Drum Roll.....The Winner is......

2011-06-01T20:04:00.003+12:00

Jo Armstrong AKA Purple.

I'm real sorry that it has taken me so long to do this draw, I left my laptop in Christchurch at my Mum and Dad's so had to wait for it to be couriered down.

Well done Jo I will be in contact soon.

On Saturday I attended the First Kiwi Stampers Mini Convention.

We had a FANTASTIC DAY, thanks Rebecca, Pauline, Sharyn and Alison for organising the day.

Here's my swap.

I have made a V-Latch Card using 'Sew Sweet' and 'Pattern Pieces' Stamp Sets

I used Daffodil Delight, Tangerine Tango, Melon Mambo, Very Vanilla Card Stock and 'Sweet Stitches' DSP.

I stamped it with Chocolate Chip Ink and trimmed it with Melon Mambo Pom Pom trim, I used the large flower from the 'Blossom Party' Die and 'Sweet Buttons' Embosslit in Tangerine Tango.
I think these would make nice invitations

We had a great day and thanks to Emma we even had Prize Patrol.

Blog Candy

2011-05-27T00:08:00.001+12:00

I'm sorry for absence from here this week, if you would like a note from my Mother I will get her to leave a comment for you.

I have been under the weather this week, there was 4 days were I didn't get dressed, even to take Samuel school I just put my coat over top of my PJs, I slept and watched DVDs.

I'm now feeling a lot better now, which is just as well because I'm off to Christchurch tomorrow morning (Fri) I have a workshop in Hornby and on Saturday our Team is having a Team Mini Convention Day.

So I have been working on swaps, which I will show you next week.

When I started feeling better, I felt like sewing so I have made myself a new skirt and some gorgeous Tool Caddies.

Now one of my many addictions is Fabric, yes I admit I'm a fabric alcoholic.

I can't walk pass a remnant box with out a rummage through it.

My friend Deirde before Christmas was having a sort out and gave me boxes on boxes of fabric and bits and pieces. All my Christmases had come a once.

I sorted through it, put most of it in my fabric cupboard and I still had a box that I didn't want or thought would be too small to use, it was luckly still in our garage.

This was a tutorial from the last round of Ustamp with Dawn and Friends, Big Shot Brilliance.

Tanya Bell designed this project, thanks Tanya for your inspiration.

I loved this round,even thro it was a bit frustrating at times when a lot off the projects used dies we don't have here in NZ.

But boy do I have some fantastic projects up my sleeve or should I say Hard Drive, to do when we get them.

This is using the Scallop Square Bigz Clear Die from the Summer Mini which is a carry over product.

Contact me to order yours.

This week I have been a Stampin' Up Demonstrator for 2 years now.

Who would like some blog Candy?

To Celebrate I will give one lucky reader one of these Tool Caddies.

Leave a comment before Monday 30th May 6pm, telling me

What your favourite Stampin' Up Product is?

Mine would have to be the Big Shot and all the accessories.

LOVE LOVE IT!!!

Please leave your email address so I can contact you.

I will back on Tuesday to annouce the winner.

Butterflies

2011-05-26T23:01:00.000+12:00

Here's a butterfly easel card that I cased from Bronwyn Eastley.

I entered it in the 'Unconvention Colour Challenge' that Gardenia set.
She asked us to use Monochromatic Creation.

I know straight away that I would do one of these beauties.

I chose to use Greens, it is one of my favourite colours.
I used Certainly Celery, Very Vanilla Card Stock, Wild Wasabi Ink, Antique Brad, Beautiful Butterflies Bigz Die and Strength and Hope Stamp Set.

Puff 'n' Snuff....

2011-05-21T20:33:00.001+12:00

...Blast from the past.

One of the challenges at Unconvention was a Punch Art Challenge.

Now you probably know I don't do a lot of Punch Art, it doesn't normally smoke my tyres as a rule.

I had been blurfing (blog surfing) as you do, and I came across Tami White's Dragon Punch Art card.

I had saved in my CASE file, so when we were asked to do a punch art card I knew what to do straight away.

Here's my 'Puff 'n' Snuff' card.

Can you remember that TV Show, I loved it but I was scared of Witchy Poo and would sit with hands over my eyes and peek through my fingers LOL.

I think he is just gorgeous.

He has been embossed with the Square Lattice Embossing folder, you have to love it, it's so versatile.

Jeanne's Pressie

2011-05-18T21:44:00.002+12:00

Here's Jeanne's Pressie as promised.

Last Thursday one of the Unconvention Challenges was to make this Peek-a-Boo Box.

It is a very tiny box, I loved making it.

My next Dilemma was what can I give here that would fit inside it.

I have used Faux Linen Technique again, I'm enjoying this at the moment.

The butterfly on top of the box I have embossed using nail filing dust from Not Quite Navy mixed with Clear Embossing Powder on Glossy Cardstock. I was very pleased with the results.

Here's the inside of the box, I have stamped the butterfly in Early Espresso.

Back to my dilemma.

I decided to make a Cameo Brooch, I used a Level 1 Hostess Set 'Silhouette Sentiments'.

I made this gift them made her card which you can view HERE.

Jeanne was thrilled to receive her gift and card.

I went over to check out what this weeks challenge over at Try Stampin' on Tuesdays and found out that I was one of the top 3 picks.

To view my card Click here.

Two out of the three cards were from New Zealand, Sharna sent her winning entry to me, aren't I the lucky one, go to my last post to view.

Go check out this week's Sketch.

During May Stampin' Up! are giving you a Weekly Deal on some of our exclusive products, this week is 30% off Square Rhinestone Brads and two of our fabulous Ribbons . There are no limits and no minimum purchase required.
Item       Page     Description                                     Regular Price       Sale Price

119750    137 Daffodil delight 5/8"(1.6cm) Satin Ribbon        $20.50    $13.50

119963    137    Certainly Celery 3/8" (1cm) Taffeta Ribbon     $16.50    $11.55

109112    139    Square Fire Rhinestone Brads                          $23.95    $16.77
109113    139    Square Ice Rhinestone Brads                           $23.95    $16.77

Contact me if you would like to purchase any of these great deals.

Remember shipping costs are not included in these prices.

Try Stampin' on Tuesdays

2011-05-18T21:40:00.000+12:00

I had gone into my craftroom and partly tidied it and got distracted as we do in craftrooms.

I have finally finish my Mother's Day Card and Mini Albums for both our Mums (my last post tells you why).

To view the albums in my post here.

For the card I have used I have used Try Stampin' On Tuesday, Try Stampin' #14 Sketch.

I have used this for my cards to match the albums, but I turned it on it's side.

I have used 'Love Notes' DSP, I love this DSP.

Riding Hood Red, Basic Black and Very Vanilla Cardstock.

I have also used my latest Big Shot Die and Multipurpose Adhesive sheets to make the back ribbon.

It's a great die and I know I will use it lots and the multipurpose adhesive sheet will come in very handy.

I have used 'Just Believe', 'Teeny Tiny Sentiments" and 'Well Scripted' (retired Summer Mini) Stamp Sets.

Go and check out 'Try Stampin' on Tuesdays' they have some fantastic sketches.

RAK

2011-05-17T21:16:00.000+12:00

This morning as I went out to hang washing on the line, Samuel found a parcel on the doorstep.

The parcel was from Sharna Russell, I have got to know Sharna through this round of Ustamp with Dawn and Friends.

This stunning card was inside, she has used one of my favorite DSPs the colours are so beautiful.

The Stamp Set used is 'Bliss' retired SAB set, she has used Emboss Resist Technique.

I love what she has done with the Word Window Punch and the ribbon.

This wee note pad was also inside.

It's very elegant.

Thanks Sharna, I'm looking forward to meeting you in August.