CAS Christmas

Hi there,

It's been a tough day today, I knew it would be. I have been at a funeral for my best friend's mum - the first funeral I've been to since my own mum's earlier in the year. So, yes, definitely a tough one - hence the late post today.

We have a brand new challenge at Cardz 4 Guyz and this week I chose the theme and kept it simple with a 'CLEAN & SIMPLE CHRISTMAS' theme. Here's what I made (very quickly) for my DT inspiration ...

Very clean and simple - some kraft card and my little snowman and sentiment are stamped in Vintage Photo distress ink. I used a water brush to drag out some of the colour, then added some white gel pen for my snowman and a little glitter to highlight some of the snow. I did say it was quick!

Hugz, Jan xx

Use Something Red

Hello again,

Well, the shopping still hasn't happened - I have been covering for my poorly colleague for most of the week, including today, but in return I have my first Saturday off tomorrow since starting my new job! So, I will definitely be making a start on the Christmas shopping - I have told them at work that I will not be answering my phone tomorrow! Lol.

So, I have my next DT project for the new theme at the Alphabet Challenge - this will be the last one for 2017 and we are up to the letter 'U'. The new theme will be

'USE SOMETHING RED'

A nice easy one which will fit in with Christmas, but I chose not to go there and had a play with my new Leonie Pujol stamp set. Here's what I made for a little inspiration ...

The stamp set is called 'Everlasting Love' - I coloured the leaves with alcohol markers and paper pieced the flower petals with some scraps of red design paper. I also used some glossy accents on the flower centres (but it doesn't show very well in my photo).

The stamped 'Wish' sentiment is from a freebie set on a magazine a while ago and I added a little die-cut red heart to finish off. 

The doodled border is also stamped using the same set.

Hope you can come and join us for our last challenge before Christmas.

Hugz, Jan xx

Anyone for Cocktails

Good morning,

Well, I still haven't got very far with my Christmas shopping yet as I got called into work on Monday (my day off) to cover a poorly colleague. It's a good job we only have a very small family! Tomorrow is my next day off, so I am hoping to make a start on it then, phew!

I have my next DT project to show you today - for the new challenge at Cardz 4 Galz, and this week our Babs has chosen the theme

'ANYONE FOR COCKTAILS'

Well it would be rude to say no, it is nearly Christmas after all - I might just indulge next weekend on our work party! Anyway, here's what I made for a little inspiration ...

I used Stamping Bella's Uptown Girls 'Victoria and Juliette's Night Out' (which was a popular choice amongst the team too). I coloured the hair and skin with alcohol markers and then paper pieced their dresses to match the pretty pink theme of my card. 

I hope you will join us with your own creations - see you there.

Hugz, Jan xx

James Bear has Presents

Hello everyone,

I have actually managed to make some of my Christmas cards on my days off this week - very proud of my little self! Still have a few more to go, but I'm not usually this organised, although I haven't even started on the Christmas shopping yet!

I have a cute little 'Clean & Simple' card for you today - my DT inspiration for the new challenge at Fantasy Stampers. Here's what I made using one of my favourite Christmas stamps ...

Now this one is a little more fancy than a normal 'CAS ' style, but it only involves two stamps and a die-cut, so compared to some of the projects I make - it is 'clean & simple' for me!

I simply die-cut the top section of my square cardstock using the 'Frostyville Border' die from Memory Box, then added a scrap of red Christmas design paper behind it.

The stamp is LOTV 'James with Presents' and is coloured with alcohol markers (and a little added glitter around his hat). A quick stamped sentiment and one little clear dazzler to finish off. 

Hope you will come and join us with your own CAS designs.

Hugz, Jan xx

Something beginning with T ...

Good morning,

Well, I thoroughly enjoyed my time off last week, although I didn't get any of the things done that I planned (mainly cleaning out my craft room)! I just don't know where to begin - there is so much stuff in there it scares me! I think the only way I could tackle it all is to actually empty the room and start again - but I think I might need more than a week!!

I have another DT piece to show you today for the new challenge at Cardz 4 Guyz (another role that I have sadly neglected over the past couple of months)! This week Amy has chosen the theme

'SOMETHING 

BEGINNING WITH T'

So I decided on 'Travel' and got busy with one of my new Tim Holtz paper pads - here's what I came up with ...

I love how this turned out! I wanted a real distressed look for my theme and got busy distressing all the edges of the papers with my scissors and inking them.

The background is a piece of kraft card which I passed through an embossing folder, inked the edges, then added some gold gilding wax to highlight the embossed areas.

I cut lots of different size pieces of paper and stamped out a little postcard, the map and the sentiment using an old Creative Expressions stamp set. I also added a couple of oddments of die-cuts that I had lying around.

So, why not come and join us with your own 'T' themed male card.

Hugz, Jan xx

T for Trees

Hello again,

Well, back for the second day in a row - can't promise to keep this up! Lol.

We have a brand new theme over at the Alphabet Challenge today and Caz has chosen TREES for the letter 'T'. Here's what I made for a little inspiration ...

I saw a similar design while browsing Pinterest and loved the combination of purple and gold, so here is my version using some paper scraps from my stash. 

I used my Stampin' Up tree punch which matches the 'Festival of Trees' stamp set and cut out a few trees (although I had a giggle when I thought they looked like purple pyramids!) The one in the foreground is punched from some gold mat mirri card, then passed through an embossing folder.

I die-cut the 'Christmas' part of the 'Seasonal Sentiment' from Sara's Contemporary Christmas Signature Collection (love this one) to match and added a punched star and a couple of purple adhesive gems to finish off. Simples!

Right, off to tidy up and try and make some space in my craftroom now - wish me luck, I might be a while!!

Hugz, Jan xx

The Snowman

Good morning,

Well, I am actually on holiday this week and this is the first day I have been able to craft - lots to catch up on!  So, I am trying to get back on track with my blogging and I also have a few decisions to make regarding the way forward.

But today I have a DT project for the new challenge over at Cardz 4 Galz (which I have truly neglected over the last couple of months - thanx for being so patient with me Caz) :)  The new theme was chosen by Caz this time and she would like to see a SNOWMAN as the main feature of your project, so here goes ...

My main stamped image is from the Nordic Christmas range by Crafter's Companion and is called 'Cool Christmas'. I coloured him with a combination of distress inks and coloured pencils and stamped out a little sentiment from the same set.

I stamped a few snowflakes around the top section of the card, then added a couple of die-cut snowflakes from a left over piece of ice blue glitter card (which I used for my back layer). Nice and simple today to ease me back in gently! Lol.

Please pop over to the challenge if you have a minute and check out what my teamies made too.

Hugz, Jan xx

Little Angel

Good afternoon,

Yes, I know, it's a long time since I posted again!! I am hoping that things will settle down into a routine soon as the new store has now been open a couple of months. My shifts are settling into some sort of pattern now, so I am hoping to get back on top of things in blogland.

In my last post I was looking forward to my next demonstration, which actually took place on Saturday! This time I travelled to Beverley, near Hull and had a fabulous day demonstrating for some lovely ladies (and gents) at the Craft Shop in William Strikes Garden Centre.

So, I thought I would show you a few of the samples I made using the 'Little Angel' range from Sara's Signature Collection - this was just one of the ranges that I demonstrated.

Sorry for the poor picture quality - even with my daylight lamp and two mobile phone torches shining on them, this was the best I could get on such a dreary, dull day ...

Products used

Embossing folder - Patchwork Quilt

Metal Dies - Friendly Elephant and Beautiful Baby

Stamps - New Baby 

Blue Luxury Ribbon

Products used

Embossing Folder - Patchwork Quilt

Metal Dies - Baby Accessories

Pink Luxury Ribbon

Products used

12" x 12" paper pad

Embossing Folder - Dotty Clouds

Metal Dies - Baby Accessories and Drifting Clouds

White Luxury Ribbon and metal charm

I don't have my next demonstration booked yet, but although I am on holiday this week I will be popping into work tomorrow for another class using some of the Sheena Douglass 'Time Traveller' range again - so lots of messy play. I also have my class booked for December too, so keep an eye out for some more sneak peeks.

Hope everyone is safe with all the flooding,
Hugz, Jan xx

A Quick Catch Up!

Hello again,

Well, I am not doing a very good job of blogging lately - it's well over two weeks since I last posted!

Just to catch up - my first class at the Chesterfield store went really well and my ladies all seemed to enjoy themselves, leaving with their lovely Christmas card designs, asking me when my next class was.  I have also done another two classes during our 'Birthday Week', using the fabulous new collection of 'Time Traveller' Perfect Partners by Sheena Douglass - lots of messy play with the gilding wax!

Anyway, I've not been in my craftroom for a while again now, so I thought I would post a few of the samples I made for my recent demonstration in Leeds. These ones were using the 'Autumn Morning' range from Sara's Signature Collection.

Products used 

12"x 12" Paper Pad, Natural Wood embossing folder,

Leaves are Falling metal dies and Pebeo gilding wax

Products used

Rustling Leaves stamp set and Scattered Leaves metal die

Products used

In the Forest embossing folder, Scattered Leaves metal die, 

Flourish Leaves metal die and Pebeo gilding wax

I have my next demonstration booked for three weeks today, so will be busy preparing more samples once my goodies arrive. 

I will try and show a few more of my samples as soon as I can.

Enjoy the rest of the weekend, and the extra hour in bed tomorrow!

Hugz, Jan xx

Happy Birthday!

Hello everyone,

I can't believe it's been three weeks since I last blogged - shame on me!

I have been so busy with my new job that time has literally flown by. Our grand opening went really well and we have had lots of new visitors to the store. There have been lots of things happening, what with all the classes and demonstrations, together with some fabulous offers.

My first bit of exciting news is that I will be holding my first class at the new store today - I am feeling a little nervous, but I have 15 lovely ladies to keep me company while we make some fab Christmas cards using Sara's Contemporary Christmas collection. I will try and post a picture of the cards we make later.

I also have my first demonstration day for Crafter's Companion coming up on Saturday too - so double nervous. I have been flat out making samples for the day, hence me being missing in action here on my blog. I will also try and post some of my makes here later.

On a crafty note, I have a cute little card to show you today which I made for one of my new friends at the store who celebrated her birthday at the weekend. This is probably most typically my style of crafting, and yes you guessed, I did use an LOTV stamp for the main focal point! Here's what I made ...

I used some pretty design paper from my stash, together with the LOTV image 'You're a Star', which is coloured with my Promarkers (and a little added sparkle, of course).

The flowers are from Dreamees and are stamped and cut out, then inked and layered. The sentiment is from a freebie set from a recent magazine purchase.

I will let you know how I get on with my endeavours, but in the meantime, I hope everyone has a great day.

Hugz, Jan xx 

Cars

Good morning,

Well, it's getting very exciting over at the new Crafter's Companion store in Chesterfield as we approach our grand opening weekend from the 23rd of September. We have been open for soft trading since last Thursday and the store has been very busy so far. Here's a peek at what the store front looks like - hope you can come and join us over the weekend for lots of fun and shopping!

On a crafty note, we have a brand new challenge over at Cardz 4 Guyz today, and this week Jane has chosen the theme of 

'CARS'

Now, this is a nice easy one for a male themed card - here's what I made for a little inspiration ...

Sorry for the poor photo quality - the weather here is so grey and horrible, there is no decent light!

I used my little 'Toot Toot' stamp from LOTV and stamped onto Neenah cardstock in Desert Storm (which is kraft coloured). I coloured with my Promarkers and then layered up using some scraps of design paper from my stash. The little stamped element is also LOTV, and I added a few brown adhesive pearls to embellish.

Hugz, Jan xx

Purple Tag Art

Hello there,

I hope you all got a chance to enjoy the weather earlier in the week - I didn't see a scrap of it, was locked away in a nice air conditioned shop all day!  Although I did get chance to watch the fantastic lightening storm here on Tuesday evening, but thankfully no rain.

Just a quick post from me today with my DT project for the new challenge at Cardz 4 Galz, and this time Helen has chosen the theme of

'ANYTHING BUT SQUARE'

Here's what I made for a little inspiration ...

I love making tags and it is always an opportunity to use up some of my paper scraps. The gorgeous die cut frame is from the Crafter's Companion Downton Abbey collection (as is the little piece of patterned design paper).

A little stamped sentiment and lots of punched flowers to decorate.

Enjoy your day,

Hugz, Jan xx

Balls!

Good morning,

Well, I had a precious day off yesterday, and a chance to catch up with my crafting, amongst other boring old chores!

I have been working every day last week (which is quite a shock to my system, after being at home for six weeks!) We have been very busy getting the new store ready for the opening at the end of this month - there are so many fabulous products that I can't see me getting any wages! My wish list is growing by the day!

I have my next DT project for the new challenge at Cardz 4 Guyz today - this week Julie has chosen the theme

'BALLS'

Yes, you read it right, I'm not being rude! It made me giggle when I saw it too. Here's what I made using one of my favourite LOTV stamps ...

Another reasonably simple design, but I think the design paper makes all the difference - it is a piece from my Docrafts 'Geometric Kraft' Capsule collection. I love the complimentary colour scheme and all the little circles are a perfect background for the theme. 

I used my LOTV 'Super Striker' stamp and coloured him with my Promarkers, and added a little greeting to finish off.

See you all soon,

Hugz, Jan xx

Congratulations

Happy Tuesday,

I'm back today with my next DT project for the new challenge at Cardz 4 Guyz, and this week our leader Caz has chosen the theme 'CONGRATULATIONS' - so here's what I made for a little inspiration ...

I chose a fairly simple design for this one and used up a few paper scraps to make the flag pieces. I added some co-ordinating twine and a few stars, then stamped my 'Congratulations' sentiment using my Stampin' Up 'Sassy Sentiments'.

Why not pop over to the main challenge blog and take a peek at what my teamies made too?

Hugz, Jan xx

Lovely Lace

Good evening,

It's a late post for me today - I am running behind this week, due to my new work commitments over the last few days. We had a fabulous trip up north last Tuesday to visit the Crafter's Companion store in Newton Aycliffe - it was just like walking into Aladdin's cave, but full of crafty stash. And guess what! I didn't buy a thing!! How rude, but I simply didn't have time!

We are now busy getting the new store ready for the grand opening at the end of this month - so watch this space for further details.

I have my DT project for the new challenge over at Cardz 4 Galz which went live last Thursday (I told you I was running late - but better late than never, I say!) So here goes with the new theme which I chose

'LOVELY LACE'

I used a pretty piece of design paper from my stash and added my 'Lovely Lace' panel. 

This was made from two die-cut 'Fleur de Lys' borders cut from sand cardstock, which has a piece of gorgeous cream lace running up the middle, which is then topped with a single pearl flower string.

I die-cut the pretty filigree bow from sand cardstock using my new 'Downton Abbey Grand Bow' die, and I love it! A large pearl in the centre and a stamped sentiment finishes of my design.

Sorry again for being late, especially for my own choice of challenge!

Hugz, Jan xx

Something Beginning with F

Hello there,

I hope everyone enjoyed the long weekend - we had some lovely weather here yesterday. I am definitely the lucky one today - I am off up north to visit the Crafter's Companion store in Newton Aycliffe (I have my purse under lock and key!)

On a crafty note, I have my next DT project for the new challenge at Cardz 4 Guyz. This month we have had five Tuesdays, so we always have a 'Something Beginning with' theme on the fifth Tuesday - Cyndi has chosen

'SOMETHING BEGINNING WITH F'

Here's what I made for a little inspiration ...

I decided on 'feathers' and used this lovely die which was free on a recent magazine purchase. Quite a simple design using some book paper and a circle of kraft card (which was run through my bark embossing folder and dusted with a little distress ink to bring out the embossing). Hope you like it.

Hugz, Jan xx

Circles of Happiness

Happy Saturday,

I hope everyone has the chance to enjoy a great bank holiday weekend. I have lots of catching up to do after being out all week completing my training, but am hoping to spend some time in my garden with a few crafty bits and a nice cool drink!

We have a brand new challenge over at Fantasy Stampers today and it fits perfectly with the lovely weather. So for the next two weeks we would love so see projects that fit the theme

'SUNSHINE COLOURS'

Here's what I made for a little inspiration ...

There is definitely a circle theme going on there! I used some pretty design paper from my stash, along with pieces of gorgeous bright yellow and orange cardstock for my layers.

I die cut three circles out of the yellow layer, letting the dies go off the edge of the card, then trapped the design paper between the two layers of card so it showed through the circles. 

I used my Stampin' Up 'Flower Shop' set to stamp the two flowers for my focal point, using Ripe Persimmon and Scattered Straw distress inks. I also stamped lots of smaller flowers in the same two inks using my Stampin' Up 'Petite Petals' and then punched them out with the co-ordinating punch (so quick and easy!)

I love the sentiment on this one (just from a set I have had forever) and it fits in really well with the training I did yesterday about having a choice about how you feel and taking charge of how your day will be. So, I challenge you today - go on, 'Make your own Happiness'.

Hugz, Jan xx

A Furry Friend

Hello there,

I'm back today with my DT project for the new challenge over at Cardz 4 Guyz, and this week Sharon has chosen the theme of

'A FURRY FRIEND'

Now my little furry friends are never very far away, usually sat on my feet when I'm crafting - I wouldn't be without them ...

OK, so here's what I made for a little inspiration ...

I made a little set of notelets and a gift box to keep them in. The stamp is an old freebie that came with my Craft Stamper magazine a few years ago - don't you just love him.

I stamped him directly onto the card, then stamped again on a scrap of co-ordinating paper and paper pieced him.

The sentiment was created on my pc, then punched out and added to the cards.

I made the little box to match, to keep them all together ready to use.

Hugz, Jan xx

Some more News!

Good morning everyone,

You might remember my post from 1 July explaining my decision to take voluntary redundancy from my job in school of 14 years.

I could only hope that it was the right decision for me, and said that I didn't know what the next chapter would include, but what a difference a few weeks can make.

As many of you know from Facebook, I now have a fabulous new job (that I wouldn't have been able to pursue while at school) working for Crafter's Companion in their new store based in Chesterfield. To say I am excited would be an under-statement!

I have also undertaken their demonstrator training programme and am ecstatic to say that I passed - so I am also an Accredited Crafter's Companion Demonstrator all ready to let loose on our local craft stores!

There I was wondering what would be the best route to follow, and a door opened that I could only dream of - to work in the industry that has been my hobby for so long. My dream job!

So, I start today with a week of induction training, then we have to get the store ready for the opening - I can't wait. As for the finances, I'm not sure they will be much better as I think I will be spending most of my wages on crafty stash (well, it would be rude not too, when it will be just sat there under my nose!)

So, my mantra of 'things can only get better' sure did work - I feel so lucky to have been given this opportunity and I can't wait to move forward and start the next chapter in my life.

Big hugz, Jan xx

Do you believe in Magic?

Happy Friday,

We are off car shopping today - my hubby wants to upgrade our current car and buy a newer one. Why do I get so nervous when spending lots of money - I can spend it on craft supplies without any problem at all!

I have my next DT project for you today, for the next letter at the Alphabet Challenge and this time Pat has chosen the theme for the letter 'M'

'MYTHICAL'

So, here's what I created using one of my favourite digital images by Mitzi Sato-Wiuff ...

I absolutely love the idea of anything mythical or magical, and this little dragon fits the bill perfectly. I know I used him a while ago for a similar theme and couldn't believe it when I checked back that it was almost a year ago!!

I printed out the image six times and created a 3d decoupage effect in a box picture frame. He is coloured with my Promarkers and a little added sparkle from my gorgeous new Spectrum Sparkle pens from Crafter's Companion.

I printed the quote onto a piece of background paper cut to size, then added some distress ink in Dusty Concord, a couple of stamped corners and two little stamped dragonflies.

I also added a little extra colour to the natural frame.

Hugz, Jan xx

Flutterby Butterfly

Good morning,

Well, we spent most of the day yesterday crafting of a different style - painting the kitchen! It looks so much brighter now, just have to put up the new blind and I think we are nearly there.

I have a new DT project for you today, for the next challenge over at Cardz 4 Galz and this week Julie has chosen the theme

'BUTTERFLIES OR DRAGONFLIES'

Easy peasy, no dilemma, butterflies for me every time! Here's what I made for my DT inspiration ...

I used a Creative Expressions die by Sue Wilson called 'Mini Striplet - Butterflies in Flight' to make the main feature on my card. I cut the inside piece of the striplet into a piece of coconut white cardstock, then added some double sided adhesive behind the aperture before filling it with clear glitter.

The little butterflies also come with the die and were cut from scraps of pink cardstock. I stamped some tiny flowers onto the white to make a background, then added my sentiment (which is from a magazine freebie set).

Hope you can come and join us.

Hugz, Jan xx

When the Stars come out ...

Hello there,

I can't believe it's been a whole week since I last posted! I seem to have been busier since I finished work, than when I was there - but in a nice way, because most of it has involved crafting! I am waiting on some news that may change my direction completely - I do hope it's good news!

But while I wait patiently, we have a brand new challenge over at Cardz 4 Guyz and this week Joan chose the theme of

'WORDS'

I love making projects where the wording is the focal point - so here's what I came up with for my DT inspiration ...

I decided to have a change and make a tag this time (I know we are 'Cardz' 4 Guyz, but I am feeling a little rebellious today)!

I love starting out with a piece of white card (Neenah in this case) and then treat it to a covering of distress inks in Mermaid Lagoon (love this one), Blueprint Sketch and Chipped Sapphire to give a reverse ombre effect.

Then I stamped my quote in black archival ink - this one is from an LOTV set of Quotables called 'Life's Journey'.

I added some smaller stars using a stencil and more of the distress inks, then stamped the larger star onto a scrap of co-ordinating paper, cut it out, and added it to my project.  

There are some tiny little star gems in the design too, which are just twinkling nicely in my photo.

Hope you can come and play along with us this week,

Hugz, Jan xx

By the Seaside

Good morning,

Well, that's just where I would like to be at the moment - by the seaside!

I have such a lot going on at the moment (but I can't talk about it yet).  I thought I would be having a rest once I gave up my job - but as they say, 'As one door closes, another one opens!' I will fill you in as soon as I can, I promise :)

We have a brand new challenge over at Cardz 4 Guyz today, and it was my turn to choose the theme this week. So, as my title suggests, we would love to see your 'BY THE SEASIDE' projects. Here's what I made for my DT inspiration ...

I chose a lovely turquoise piece of design paper to represent the colour of the sea (well, in some lovely hot places anyway!) and kraft card to represent the sand.

The turquoise piece has some of my favourite Stampin' Up splatters stamped on it using Gathered Twigs distress ink, then I ran it through a Hessian embossing folder for some texture.

I stamped the main focal images straight onto the kraft card, using some freebie stamps from my Craft Stamper magazine and distress inks. Then I chopped them into four different sized pieces before assembling them onto my card.

I used some natural twine, together with a button and a stamped 'It's Your Birthday' sentiment to finish off.

See you at the challenge,

Hugz, Jan xx 

Love Heart Bag

Good Morning,

I hope everyone has had a good week - mine has been a very busy one this week (well, the last couple of days anyway). I am hoping to get back into my craftroom later today :)

We have a brand new theme over at the Alphabet Challenge today, and this time it was my turn to choose, so for the letter 'L' I chose

'L for LOVE'

This is such a generic theme and can be incorporated into so many occasions, so here's what I made for a little inspiration ...

I decided to have a change from cards this time, and decorated this little kraft coloured paper bag.

I used up some scraps of design paper from my stash and added some faux stamped stitching around the edge. The next layer is the gorgeous die cut 'Bloomin' Heart'  from Stampin' Up, which is cut from some rose coloured cardstock. I added a smaller heart next, which is raised on some dimensional pads, then the little stamped sentiment. 

Embellishments include a piece of pink polka dot ribbon, a length of string pearls, a couple of die-cut flowers (also from the 'Bloomin' Heart' set) and some adhesive pearls.

Hope you can join us with your own 'Love'ly' creations.

Hugz, Jan xx

More Black and White

Hello there,

I'm out most of the day today, so scheduled my post for this morning.

It's time for our next challenge over at Cardz 4 Galz, and this time Sharon has chosen the theme of

'MONOCHROME'

I absolutely love this theme, translated as 'Black and White' or 'Varying Shades of One Colour' - I went with the black and white for the second time this week! Here's what I made for a little inspiration ...

I made this one for a friend's birthday later this month and I'm really pleased with how it turned out.  I thought it might be too busy, but I think it works.

I used my Spellbinders 'Scalloped Borders One' dies again and layered the pieces up over the background design paper (which is from a really old paper stack with no packaging). I used one of the 'Decorative Labels Eight' dies to cut a background for my sentiment, which is from the Stampin' Up 'Birthday Blooms' set.

I added a piece of black and white ribbon, a couple of stamped flowers, layered up with a little black dazzler in the centre.

Hugz, Jan xx

Where would you go?

Good morning,

Wow! Four weeks since I finished work already! Where does the time go? I have been very busy in my craft room making lots of bits and pieces in readiness for the Christmas Fayre at school in December - I am planning to try my first table top sale. Never thought I would hear myself discussing Christmas at this time of year, but there you go. My biggest problem is where to store everything - I have some larger home decor pieces that are taking up a lot of room now!

Anyway, back to the here and now - we have our next challenge over at Cardz 4 Guyz today and this week Helen chose the theme of 

'TRANSPORT'

This is a great theme for a male card - lots of choice. Here's what I made for my DT inspiration ...

I was looking for an image on the internet because all my transport stamps are vintage cars and I wanted a change - so was looking for a nice steam train like the Hogwarts Express, as my girlies have been busy with all things Harry Potter this last week, taking part in an Instagram book competition and Sam has just received her new hardback 'copy of The Cursed Child', so has her nose firmly glued inside it!  

I found a beautiful image, but decided to keep it simple in black and white to match the design paper which is from my Prima 'Cartographer' paper pad, and added a few little embellishments to finish off.

Thanx for reading my ramblings - hope you all have a good day.

Hugz, Jan xx

Feathered Friends

Good morning,

I hope everyone out there in craft land is well - I'm hoping to pop over to Blythe Craft Studio later today - they are having a demonstration day (bet I can't get home without spending any money!)

I have another make for you today for the new challenge at Fantasy Stampers and for the next two weeks the new theme is

'PEACHES & CREAM'

So, here's what I made using a pretty little stamp from Clear Impressions ...

I have layered some peach 'Adorable Scorable' cardstock onto a cream card blank, then added my pretty flecked paper (it is cream with a slight peach fleck embedded into it).

I stamped directly onto the paper with my Spiced Marigold distress ink (I added a little Versamark ink to the stamp first, which seems to give a clearer stamped image when using distress inks). The gorgeous little birdie was from a freebie set that I got with a magazine some time ago - it is from Clear Impressions and is called 'Feathered Friends'.

I added a piece of cream ribbon, together with a bit of peach twine and a little pearlised heart embellishment to finish off my triple bow.

Other embellishments include a stamped sentiment using a brand new stamp set from Stampin' Up called 'Endless Birthday Wishes' (I can see this is going to be another favourite!) and three tiny little peach buttons.

Why not pop over and check out some more fab inspiration from my design team over at the challenge - hope to see you there.

Hugz, Jan xx

Shake, Shake ...

Hello again,

I'm back today with my DT inspiration for the next challenge over at Cardz 4 Guyz, and this week Amy chose the theme

'SHAKER CARDS'

Now, these are not my favourite style of card to make (I find them very fiddly), but here's what I came up with ...

I just made a small 'shaker' element to be the focal point of my card layout. I stamped inside it using an old freebie stamp from a Craft Stamper magazine, then added some fine white glitter and some little silver sparkly bits, before sealing the square and adding the die-cut frame.

The tiny little sentiment was on the same stamp and I framed it with a smaller version of the main topper.

A scrap of book paper, some ribbon and a few blue brads to finish off.

That's all for today,

Hugz, Jan xx

Butterflies in Flight

Good morning,

I'm back today with my DT make for the new theme over at the Alphabet Challenge, and this time Jackie has chosen the theme of

'K for KINDNESS'

What a great reason to send a lovely hand crafted card, just to be kind - there are so many reasons I can think of. Here's what I made for a little inspiration ...

I decided to stay with the summery colours today and chose yellow and cream for a nice cheery look. 

I used a Sue Wilson Mini Striplet die called 'Butterflies in Flight', cutting it three times to make the background, then enclosed it in a little frame made from Creative Expressions Custard cardstock.

The flowers are stamped using a Honeydoo stamp set, then cut out and layered up with a little pearl centre. The die-cut butterflies are part of the Striplet die, and I added a stamped sentiment using my 'Sassy Salutations' set from Stampin' Up.

Why not come and join us - I'm sure there is a reason to send a 'Kindness' card to someone you know.

Hugz, Jan xx

Whatever Makes You Happy

Hello there everyone,

I hope you are all enjoying the sunshine - the temperatures here have been unbelievable this week! It has been lovely to spend some time sat out in the garden - I even did some colouring out there yesterday.

So, today we have a brand new theme over at Cardz 4 Galz, and this time Babs has set us the challenge of using

'NO PATTERNED PAPERS'

Now, I must admit, I do love my design papers and do quickly turn to them when making a card - so this challenge was a pleasant change and I decided to get out my distress inks and get messy. Here's what I created for a little inspiration ...

As we have been enjoying all this glorious sunshine, I decided to use some lovely bright colours - I inked up a piece of white card using Scattered Straw, Dried Marigold and Shabby Shutters distress ink.

I created lots of depth to the colour by using a stencil, a few abstract stamps and a little piece of sequin waste. I stamped the two corners in black and then added some Black Soot distress ink around the edges.

The sentiment (corner stamp and the little dragonflies) are from a set by Sheena Douglass which I got free on a magazine some time ago. 

I die-cut some flowers from a scrap of the inked card and layered them up, with a few punched leaves, to finish the card.

I really enjoyed making my project without delving into my stash of design papers - why not go and check out how the rest of the design team managed without their papers too?

Hugz, Jan xx

Lost Marbles!

Good morning,

Well, I know I was moaning about it raining on Saturday and now we have a mini heatwave - the temperatures here yesterday were ridiculous and today is supposed to be even warmer. Somewhere nice and comfortable in between would be nice - my little fur babies didn't know what to do with themselves yesterday!

I made sure I was in my craft room early yesterday, as I use my conservatory and in this heat it is like a sauna by lunchtime! So, here's what I made for the new challenge over at Cardz 4 Guyz today, and Jane chose the theme of

'MAKE US SMILE'

I must admit I am a little addicted to my 'Crazy Birds' at the moment ...

I was looking for a quote on the internet and this one certainly makes me smile! It describes me perfectly!

I typed it out on my pc, printed it off, then added some funky scribbled lines around the outside of the wording to make boxes. Then I stamped my little 'Crazy Bird' as if he is sitting on top of the pile of words. I used my Promarkers to colour him and added a doodled border to match the wording. I just love the expression on his face - it says everything!

Hope you will join us and 'Make us Smile' with your own quirky creations this week.

Hugz, Jan xx

Birthday Blooms

Good morning,

Well, I have been at home for two weeks now and would have officially finished school for the summer yesterday - and guess what? It's raining here as I write my post!

We have a brand new challenge today at Fantasy Stampers with a nice easy theme for the next two weeks

'CLEAN & SIMPLE'

Here's what I made for my DT inspiration ...

I must admit, it does have a little more detail than I would normally include in a 'CAS' design - but it is just one layer using the base card.

First I decided where I wanted the circle aperture to go and drew a feint pencil line to guide my stamping. Then I used my 'Stampin' Up 'Birthday Blooms' stamp set and stamped the gorgeous flower along the edge of the circle. I masked out the flower and added some stamped splatters using Milled Lavender distress ink.

Next I cut around the circle to make an aperture in the card, and also cut off some of the fussy parts of the stamp that were protruding into the circle. 

The flower is coloured with my Promarkers and I added a little glitter to highlight the petals. 

I added a piece of polka dot design paper behind the aperture (actually adhered to the inside of the card) and added a stamped sentiment (from the same stamp set). Three little punched butterflies from the scrap design paper finish off the design.

Hope you can come and join us over at the challenge.

Hugz, Jan xx

Time to open the Christmas Box!

Happy Tuesday,

Well I must admit, I'm never very organised when it comes to starting Christmas crafts and the thought of it this early usually sets me running, but we have a new theme over at the Cardz 4 Guyz challenge this week and yes, our Jules chose

'CHRISTMAS IN JULY'

So, out came the box from deep in the corner, a quick dust down before I opened it, and here's what I came up with for some inspiration ...

Papers are from my stash and the I love this little reindeer stamp, which came free on a magazine last year. I stamped him in Aged Mahogany distress ink to co-ordinate with the colours in the design paper.

Hope you can come and join us if you are brave enough to open your Christmas Box!

Hugz, Jan xx

In the Jungle

Hello there,

First of all, it just wouldn't be right not to say 'Happy Birthday' to my big girl who is 27 today (how old do I feel!!) Lol. We are off to the cinema later to see 'The Legend of Tarzan' - ooo, yummy Mr Skarsgard in a loincloth!

I'm back on schedule today and have a brand new theme over at the Alphabet Challenge - this week Amy has chosen for the letter 'J' ...

'JUNGLE ANIMALS'

Here's what I made for a little inspiration using an old set of Kanban stamps ...

Quite a simple design this time because I was rushing to catch up! I love the expression on his face - I seem to look like that most of the time at the minute! Confused, that is - not hairy!! 

He is stamped in black ink and coloured with my Promarkers. Everything looked a little dark, so I lifted it with a hint of blue.

If you have a minute, why not pop over to the challenge and check out some more great inspiration.

Hugz, Jan xx

Thank You

Good afternoon,

I am late posting today - not sure where the day has gone. I am behind schedule because I was out most of the day yesterday - some interesting things happening here, but I can't tell you just yet ;)

I have my next project for the new challenge over at Cardz 4 Galz, and this week our leader Caz has chosen the theme of

'GINGHAM'

Here's what I made for my DT inspiration ...

Now, green isn't a colour I normally use - but I had trouble finding some gingham paper (which I couldn't quite believe with the amount of stash I have). I found this one in an old paper pad and I am quite pleased with the results - I think it looks really fresh.

I made the 'Thank You' card to take into school next week for my colleagues, just to show my appreciation for the lovely gifts and flowers that they all bought me when I left last week. I still haven't got my head around it yet!

I used my Spellbinders 'Scalloped Borders One' dies to create an edging, and then layered up the different pieces. I added a strip of white mesh, topped with a piece of green organza ribbon. The stamped greeting is from my Stampin' Up 'Sassy Salutations' set, and I decorated this with some pretty flowers which were stamped onto parchment and heat embossed with white powder. The centre of the flowers is die cut, along with the foliage from scraps of the background layer.

Hope you will join us over at the challenge.

Hugz, Jan xx

In the Country

Hi there,

It's a happy day today - off to the airport later to pick up my girlies after their week in Zante. Can't believe how much I missed them!

I have my new DT inspiration for the next challenge at Cardz 4 Guyz today and the new theme is

'IN THE COUNTRY'

Here's what I made using one of my LOTV stamps ...

The stamp is called 'In the Country', so a perfect choice for the challenge. I coloured it using my Faber Castell colouring pencils for a change.

Why not pop over and take a look at some more fab inspiration over at the challenge.

Hugz, Jan (DT) xx

Wish upon a Star

Good morning,

Well, both my girlies have been in Zante together since Tuesday and I can't believe how quiet it's been without them! I grumble at all the noise when they are both in, but I sure have missed them both. They will be back next Tuesday evening, so I'm looking forward to hearing about all their adventures (well, maybe not all of them!) Lol.

Over at Fantasy Stampers today we see the start of the next challenge and the new theme is

'WISH UPON A STAR'

So we are looking for any of your project using stars - here's what I created for my DT inspiration ...

Think I went a bit overboard with the stars - but you get the idea!

The backing papers, stamped image and sentiment are all LOTV. The stamp is aptly called 'Wish upon a Star' and is coloured with my Promarkers (and a little added glitter sparkle). The 'Wish' letters are cut using an old Sizzix alphabet die, then added to my card. 

Why not pop over to the challenge blog HERE and check out some more fab inspiration from my design team.

Hugz, Jan xx

My News

Good afternoon to you all,

Well, for those of you that don't know, I can finally reveal my news now ...

As many of you know, I have worked in primary school for a long time now, and although my job has been challenging at times, I absolutely love working with the children.

But, I had a bit of a bombshell dropped on me at the end of May that literally knocked me sideways. At a meeting just before the half term break in May our Headteacher announced that she was planning to re-structure the staff in September and had to lose one of her support staff. As there are three Higher Level Teaching Assistants at the school, they had decided to reduce to just two posts in September. And what job do I do - yep, a HLTA!

At the time I went into a flat spin, literally driving home in tears - but after much careful thought and consideration, I decided that it was time for me to go and I have taken the voluntary redundancy package they had on offer. So as from September, I will be unemployed - now that's a scary thought!

It was a very emotional day yesterday, my last day at school, but I finished at 3.30pm for the very last time, leaving with so many memories - lots of them good (and a few bad ones too). I was bombarded with cards and prezzies and flowers and so many good wishes (and lots of hugs from the children too). So I can't be sad, but only time will tell whether I made the right decision.

I'm not sure what the next chapter includes, but for the time being I am going to spend some time at home after the horrible year we've had here, which began last June with my hubby being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (he has had to take medical retirement) and finishing with losing my mum earlier this year. There have been lots of other things in between too, which have just added up to a really bad year. I'm now working on the principle that 'things can only get better', but without a pay check every month I think we will have to tighten our belts a little!

I have lots of ideas that I want to pursue, but first I need to get my head in order and figure out what is the best route to follow. I am hoping that my crafting will play a big role in my future and I am looking at ways to expand my horizons whilst incorporating my addiction (sorry, hobby)!

But until then, I have a 'To Do' list as long as my arm that needs some attention (all those jobs I was too tired to do while I was working!) So as they say, it's 'onwards and forwards' for me - who knows what the future will hold (but I am secretly hoping it has some good things to offer).

Big hugz, Jan xx

Ink it Up

Hello there,

It's Friday again already, so it's time for our next letter over at the Alphabet Challenge. Caz has chosen the theme for the letter 'I'

'INK IT UP'

So, here's what I made for my DT inspiration - I loved getting all inky with this one ...

I began with a piece of white cardstock and added some texture paste through my brick wall stencil. 

Once dry I used my ink dusters to apply Aged Mahogany and Tea Dye distress inks to cover the whole piece of card, leaving a lighter section in the middle.

Next I stamped the flowers at the bottom, together with the leaves in the top corner. I added a little colour to the flowers using a pink Promarker and then applied a few touches of glitter. 

The sentiment is from Inkylicious and is stamped using black archival ink.

I thought the two little dragonfly brads just finished the piece of nicely.

Hope you will come and join us with your own 'inky' creations - the challenge is open until 7th July.

Hugz, Jan xx