As Happy As.......

Stampotique Challenge: Altered Items

2012-01-25T08:37:00.000Z

The new challenge at Stampotique is to alter something. I have used the lid of a Camembert cheese container as the base of my mobile. I covered it with paper and on the edges I have used Tim Holtz Tissue strip which I then coloured with paint.

For images I first covered some Grungeboard with text paper on both sides. I then stamped the images onto one side of the grungeboard and then cut them out.

The next thing I did I am very pleased with. I was not looking forward to kiss stamping the images so I came up with a cunning plan! I stamped onto tissue paper with archival ink which would not run once dry. The images on tissue paper are transparent so I could easily reverse them and then stuck them to the other side using Matt Medium. Problem solved and with such ease. The simplest solutions are often the best. After all a mobile that is one sided is hardly perfect.

The images were then painted with, do you rememeber they were very popular a while back, H2O paints.

They were all the rage for awhile. Well they are still glorious and they do give a lovely sheen. A watery effect I thought. I also had a set of the iridescent ones. Pale colours that I have used for the mermaids skin. Quite subtle and probably does not show up on the photos but trust me works really well. One mermaid has a subtle green one to her skin, another a purply pink sheen and the third a golden tone.

The stamps I used were Smushasha, Smumauha, Smushallaum and Octopet.

Available from Stampotique and in the UK from The Stamp Attic and Happy Daze

Snow Hugs Valentine with Rogue Redhead

2012-01-20T11:12:00.001Z

I wanted to show how the Rogue Redhead Snow Hugs plate was also very suitable for Valentines Day and need not be put away once Christmas is over.

I have made a heart insert in the card and covered the card in gold printed vellum. This ties in with the current Rogue Challenge, to use vellum. Cut out the vellum over the heart window to reveal more clearly the lovely image from Snow Hugs plate. I have paper pieced the red hearts so they would feature more. I have also used the Hugs and kisses stamp from the same plate and finally embellished with some ribbon and a jeweled heart.

There is still time to join in with the Rogue Redhead Rebel challenge so why not give it a go?

Use your Favourite Paper with Gingersnaps and Stampotique!

2012-01-19T17:40:00.000Z

Raining Eggs!

I have had this delicious paper in my stash for a while. Until now I have just taken it out and looked at it. Then my odd sense of humor talked to me and I thought of "Raining Eggs" instead of "Raining Men".

What more would a proud smart long legged bird wish for?

I love this image and whenever I use it, it brings a smile to my face. I think she is glorious. This is a Janet Klein design available from Stampotique who are the wonderful sponsors this month over on Gingersnaps.

What could be better?

Gingersnap and Stampotique Ribbon Challenge

2012-01-12T19:23:00.000Z

The Supply Challenge at Gingersnaps this week is to use Ribbon. This month I am the Guest Designer for Stampotique and they are also sponsoring Gingersnaps so I have used their stamps for the challenge which is never a hardship for me.

Here I have used Prom Queen and the phrase

"What? Never seen a Dive before"

but as it would not all fit in the frame I had to cut a paste and leave out the "What?"

I have been doing quite a lot of sewing at the moment and have some items going into a traveling exhibition for 6 months as from the end of January, so I decided to add stitch to this image. I have used a variety of threads from ordinary sewing thread which gives a lovely fine line much like a fine drawing line, machine embroidery thread which gives off a sheen, hand embroidery thread as well as beads, embellishments and ribbon.

Prom Queen seems to be a girl full of attitude and I can just imagine her saying those words. Shame "What?" did not fit in. Of course I have again covered the frame with embossed tomato puree tubes. I dread the day they may start to put tomato puree into plastic tubes. Do you remember that toothpaste used to always be in metal tubes like tomato puree?

SDC46: Pocket or Purse Calendar

2012-01-11T09:23:00.001Z

There is a new challenge just starting over on Stampotique being the second Wednesday of the month. It is challenging you to create a pocket or purse calendar. I have chosen to make mine into a match book, simply adorned with Star Chick and some inspiring ribbon to influence my days.

The saying inside is also one of Stampotique's stamp: 8855 which I feel is a great way to approach life and a good one to read at the start of the day.

I look forward to seeing what you come up with using your Stampotique stamps.

Just to Enjoy!

2012-01-10T09:13:00.001Z

Somebody That I Used to Know - Walk off the Earth (Gotye - Cover)

John found this on You Tube and I thought it so delightful, fun and creative I thought some others may like to view it too?

Amazing what you can do with one guitar.

What do you think?

What a Dream Month!

2012-01-04T10:45:00.002Z

What a dream month! Not only am I Guest Designer for Stampotique but Gingersnaps are being sponsored this month by Stampotique, so I get to play even more with my favourite stamps.

This week on Gingersnaps the challenge is to use one set of stamps. I have chosen Daniel Torrente stamps to use. I used Queen of Life and Daniel's Hearts. I haven't used The Queen of Life for sometime so it was a delight to get this opportunity. I have placed her in a metal embossed frame that I made by running tomato puree tubes through my Cuttlebug and various embossing folders. Then I rubbed a fairly dry black Stazon ink pad over the high spots to add the illusion of more depth. Finally hanging a small bronze heart off a hook that I added to the frame.

What a Fantastic Way to Start 2012!

2012-01-01T11:59:00.000Z

There could be few better ways to start the New Year for me. I have been asked to be the Guest Designer for Stampotique for the first month of the year. People who have followed my blog for several years will know I have been an avid fan of Stampotique's stamps and feel I was using them early on before they became as popular as they are now. So to be asked to be a guest designer was just terrific and so exciting. If you are interested in people's blurb you can read more over on their site.

I have started with my first make for Stampotique with a very simple New Year Wish. If only this could be true....

I would also like to pay tribute to one of their permanent designers, Joanne Wardle and fellow Gingersnap design team member, who I think was the first person I noticed doing such simple designs. I just felt this creation needed nothing else but to colour the star in gold. I hope she sees it as a compliment and that she has inspired this creation in its simplicity. I do not like to copy so I am keen to pay tribute and to recognize where the inspiration came from. My other creations for the month are very different. This just felt it had such a strong New Year Wish that was so appropriate and needed absolutely nothing else.

The Star Chick is one of Jo Capper-Sandon's design that she created for Stampotique. It is a most versatile stamp that I am loving using at the moment. A simple strong image which I find evocative.

Happy Christmas Everyone! Shimmer, Glimmer and Glitz

2011-12-27T13:23:00.002Z

Rather belated but better late than never. Over at Gingers some of us have put together Christmas cards to wish followers A Merry Christmas. I would like to extend this to all fellow bloggers a very Merry Christmas and here is to a great New Year of crafting. God bless all of you!

This is an Elusive Image stamp which I stamped onto glassine and then coloured with Sakura Glittery pens and a water brushed the colours so that they reacted more as paints.

i am entering it into the Stampotique challenge which will be the very last week to enter with another stamp company stamp. In fact I think it is the first week I have ever entered without using a Stampotique stamp. Well I had to join in once when I was allowed.

Snow Hugs

2011-12-16T11:18:00.000Z

Today I have made a simple card from the Rogue Redhead designed stamps. These glorious hearts come from The Snow Hugs plate. At the Rogue Redhead shop there are some amazing deals to be had on their stamp plates. Why not take a look. You will be surprised how many stamps you can get for very little.

Wax with Gingersnaps

2011-12-14T13:27:00.001Z

This is a piece I started when I had my fab girls weekend with Sue and Sioux. I wanted to create a canvas white toned Christmasy piece that looked cold and wintery. The star was a stencil which I filled with Terra Texture paint. When dry I painted it and the canvas with pale cool colours. I sprinkled clear glitter onto the star so it would stick whilst the paint was drying. I then stamped onto tissue paper and applied this onto the canvas.

When I came home I wanted the colours to be even softer so applied a thin layer of wax over some of the images to soften them. I also applied the Merry Christmas by stamping onto tissue paper and adhering with wax. I have also found this glorious ultra thick gesso which I spread over sequin waste to give it more dimension and texture.

There are some other varied creations by the design team over on Gingersnaps. Please take a look.

Non Traditional Christmas Card week with Stampotique 43

2011-12-08T08:53:00.000Z

Stampotique's challenge this time was to create a Christmas card with no Red or Green So here is my version.

I used Beach Washed paper that has a darker core and ran it through a Cuttlebug embossing folder to bring this out more. Sanded the top and then rubbed an embossing pad over the high points and added clear glitter embossing powder. This gives it a subtle sparkle. The snowman was stamped and again embossed with clear glitter powder. He too has a very subtle sparkle. I gave the snowman a candy cane which I did not colour with red and mounted the tag onto this brown and blue backing paper which I think really sets it off. I love the pale blue dots on the paper as they remind me of snow falling or snowballs.

T!m's 12 Tags 2011 (2 - 5)

2011-12-06T13:00:00.000Z

Tag 5

I am starting T!m's 12 tags by blogging Tag 5 as I am so proud of my cheat! I did not have any reflection stamps but I did have some Christmas cards that looked like the word background. So I simple stuck one to the tag and cut around.

This next bit is the bit I am proud of. How to incorporate the plastic front to look similar. I took some acetate and ran it through a snowflake embossing folder. Not a Tim one as they tend to be deeper cut and thought it may cut through? But as I haven't tried it, it may not? Then I took a really old almost dried out Stazon in black and rubbed it gently over the high points. Stuck it over the tag. Fab. Not only distressed looking but with a snowflake texture as well.

I did have the right die for the wreath so I took 2 different green core card and cut the leaves. Rubbed them with sand paper and layered and adhered. I rather like the two tones of green. Finally added a wish embellishment as well as the pearls and ribbons and it was done.

Tag 4

The main difference with this tag to T!m's is that I cut the snowman out of thick brown card which worked great as it did not curl at all. The second difference was that I used Picket Fence Crackle paint rather that Rock Candy Crackle paint. I was making this tag with my friends Sue and Sioux, during a wonderful girls weekend, (you can read more about it on Sioux blog), who both used the correct Rock Candy paint. I must admit I preferred the finish for the Snowman of the Picket Fence as it was beautifully matt and felt more like snow.

Tag 3

As Tag 4 was the first of the tags I made when we came to do Tag 3 together we all decided to improvise since as we did not have the proper stamp. I decided to use a similar technique as for the Snowman to incorporate the cut out Joy word to add to the tag for a little different definition. I backed this with copper foil. We all mixed and match word stamps to create something that was along the lines of T!m's tag using different colour for the words.

Tag 2

Now finally this lush Reindeer. I just love this calico reindeer and would never have thought of doing this, but I love it. Bit of improvisation on this tag but not much. Added a "Joy" charm embellishment as the calico reindeer brought me such joy.

I will also link this post to Grungy Monday and join in the fun there!

T J Blog Hop with the Rogue Redheads

2011-11-29T12:00:00.004Z

Welcome to Stop #8 on the joint Rogue Redhead and Technique Junkies Blog Hop! We are all having loads of fun with the new Technique Junkies' 3D and Fun Folds CD!

The Technique Junkies team has joined us to showcase the numerous great techniques on this new CD. As you may know,

The Technique Junkies Newsletter

has been publishing rubber stamping technique tutorials since 2002. The 3D and Fun Folds CD contains 70 step-by-step technique tutorials in PDF format ñ perfect dimensions, perfect directions and great pictures for every step.

Visit http://www.techniquejunkies.com/ for more details about the CD and the Technique Junkie Newsletter.

A fantastic group of design team members from both Rogue Redhead Designs and the Technique Junkie Newsletter, have helped put together this fabulous Blog Hop to kick off the 3D and Fun Folds CD. Not only will the talented Technique Junkies team be hopping with the Rogue Crew today, they started hopping yesterday with Classy Cards N' Such and will be hopping again all the way through Friday one day each with PaperTemptress, Mark's Finest Papers, and Sweet n' Sassy Stamps. Check the

The Technique Junkie Newsletter Blog for more details.

After visiting me, you can head off to see Joanne Wardle at Made By Joanne

for your next stop.

This is a rather fun double sliding card and the template is available to Technique Junkies blog subscribers

As you will see by joining in the blog hop their site is full of creative ideas and new ways to expand your crafting skills. Why not take a look.

This is the double slide card once slid! It is a combined blog hop with Rouge Redhead stamps so I have taken the opportunity to use a stamp from the Relish Reading plate and the Floriculture plate. I thought the two inner stamps went well together. There are some great bundles available at the moment of the Rogue Redhead website shop. Do take a look and grab one!

Remember you do not want to miss any stops along the way so please leave me a comment if you are playing.

Good Luck and enjoy!

If you get lost along the way, here's the whole list of hop stops for your convenience.

1. The Technique Junkie Newsletter Blog

2. RogueRredhead Designs.

3. Jackie Kalchert

4. Beverly G., Rogue Crew

5.Jean Franks Beck, Rogue Crew

6.Holly Brown

7. Jane Bosi

8. Laura Liddell, Rogue Crew

9 Joanne Wardle, Rogue Crew

10. Chris Dickinson

11.Stephanie Severin, Rogue Crew

12. Sharon Briss, Chief Rogue

13 Pat Huntoon

Have fun along the way!

On Saturday, December 3, Pat from the Technique Junkie Newsletter will announce the winners from each company. Be sure to hop along on each day! There will be

FIVE WINNERS

On Monday, December 5th, Pat will announce

ONE LUCKY WINNER with a GRAND PRIZE

with a bundle of prizes from all of the participating businesses.

If you have been following along already you should have come from

Jane Bosi

If you are only starting here, please head back to the

Junkie Newsletter Blog

and go from there.

If not, your next stop is the fantastic

Joanne Wardle

You won't want to miss any stops along the way

in order to win you will need to comment on everyoneís blog

AND Pat Huntoon's blog.

There will be an additional chance to win by playing along in her Blog Hop!

Red, Yellow and Brown with Gingersnaps

2011-11-29T08:36:00.000Z

I have just realized I have not blogged this yet!

Gingersnaps have a new colour challenge which is to use red, yellow and brown. Anyone who follows my blog will have noticed I have been making Christmas Tags in anticipation of the TH 12 tags for a while now. And here is just another one.

I started with some brown patterned paper stuck to a tag. Added red embossing to make it shine a give dimension. Created a layered poinsettia from Studio 490 Christmas set. A bit of music for the carols at Christmas. A wonderful die cut deer with branches for antlers wearing a stylish Christmas wreath adorned with a bell. A Seasons Greeting wish and a touch of holly, all finished with a sparkly red bow.

Christmas Ornament Exchange with Gingersnaps

2011-11-26T09:20:00.000Z

Just look at these!

They are just awesome. I cannot tell you how thrilled I have been with this Christmas Ornament Exchange. The quality off the swaps and the love that has been put into them just makes me tingle.

They are certainly going to have pride of place on my tree this year.

The two above are by Petra Brendensen and Suze Bain

Ali, founder femme at Gingersnaps is the main host and I was the UK host.

I cannot wait to see what the US cousins have created.

I cannot image they will be as wonderful as these but I do hope they are.

What talent there is out there.

Thank you all for joining in and sharing.

I think this has been the best exchange that I have taken part in so far.

Lets hope we can keep it up!

Just awesome!

Do drop by their blogs and let them know.

These two are by Emma Sims and Kerry Hickton

These are the ones I sent:

Grungy Monday Week 28: Thanksgiving Box

2011-11-25T14:46:00.001Z

Grungy Monday Pumpkin Challenge

This week the challenge is to use Tim's Pumpkin challenge. You can see it here:

Tim's Piece for the Ranger Ink Great Pumpkin Challenge

I decided to create a hexagon box and then cover it with The Ranger silver metal which has a sticky back and so easy to use in this way.

First I cut out a card template for the box. Then I chose an embossing folder to run the metal through to create texture. I love this random circle folder. I then positioned the card over the metal and drew around the template. When cut out it was so easy to apply with the sticky background. I did cut it out slightly larger and then trimmed back.

I really liked the plain silver look and did not want to colour the box. I even decided not to run a dark stazon ink over the high points to add depth. I just liked it plain simple so the flower would stand out even more.

The flowers were punched out of metal sheet, run through a flowery embossing folder and then coloured with Alcohol Inks as Tim's video. I really like the effect of the coloured flower against the silver box. The metal is lovely to shape too, to create dimension. Enjoyed this make.

It reminded me of a water lily floating on a pond and the circle embossing folder looks like rings in water after a pebble is thrown in.

Stampsmith: New Website

2011-11-25T09:00:00.000Z

Stampsmith have a great new website which is so easy to navigate. It also includes some great tutorials and samples of work using their stamp range as well as tips and projects.
I was very lucky to have been given this stamp sheet to use. Caravan by Jack Sherman.

I just love his drawings and find it such a delight to use his designs. They are so fun to colour in.

The other great thing about this stamp sheet is the images are duplicated by the second image is facing the other way. Perfect for creating something like this. I thought I would be doing a load of kiss stamping, which I was not looking forward too, but to my delight it was not necessary. The image was already there.

I started by stamping in black and then clear embossing. This gives the line some edge and it is fantastically easy to colour in.

I used Promarkers to colour in, but the card needs to be thick enough or glossy, or something so the colours do not seep through to the back. I ended up using glossy card which seemed to work well.

I created little open carriages just big enough on 4 of them to carry a tea light. I have photographed it on the mantle piece above the fireplace. It does look rather fun at night. It would work well on a windowsill as the scale here may be better. But I guess I should say "Do not leave candles unattended they may be a fire risk" Especially if your window lets in a small draught.

HERE is a link to another creation I made with Stampsmith stamps and Jack Sherman's drawings.

I f you are interested there are lots more photos of the Carousel, which actually rotates, if you follow the link just above.

Sketch with Stampotique

2011-11-22T09:33:00.001Z

This is my Sketch entry for the current Stampotique challenge. I have used various punches and created a half moon for Moon Girl to perch on. Added gems around the moon and to highlight Wish. Wish is part of a Best wishes stamp where I have only used part of it.

I have just popped over to Stampotique to pick up the link and the card just before this is so similar, even the colours, it is spooky! Must be great minds in tune again.

Asian Theme with Dragon's Dream Tag it on.

2011-11-22T09:27:00.000Z

This is my Asian Themed tag for this weeks Dragon's Dream Tag it on. The edges were run around with a glue pen and then gold embossing added to give it a frame.

Silhouettes with Less is more: Week 42

2011-11-21T13:38:00.000Z

I love this stamp which I think is an Outlines design. I have had it for several years now and love to use it a Christmas. I simply stamped it onto black card, embossed with Silver Pearl powder and mounted it onto white card that had been run through a Cuttlebug folder.

So this is my contribution to the LIM challenge, Silhouettes, week 42.

Grungy Monday 27

2011-11-20T13:23:00.001Z

This is my contribution to Grungy Monday 27.

The background was created using the method shown by Tim Holtz:

HERE

I them stamped onto glassine with Stazon and a Tim Holtz stamp. I then torn the paper by using a ruler to rip by and attached it over the tag. I made a fir cone from the Tim Holtz die. I found this quite tricky to do. If anyone has any clever tips on how to construct these please let me know. It took my quite a while to get it so I was pleased with it.

I finally added a charm and a big Christmasy ribbon.

Livestock Challenge with Gingersnaps

2011-11-18T11:22:00.001Z

There is a new challenge just started over on Gingersnaps and the theme is Livestock. I remembered these free stamps I have had for ages and actually found them. I followed a tutorial idea from the Gingersnaps site on making inchies: Masterboard Technique by Alison Manning, who in my opinion is the master of inchies.

I do not know whether other people in the UK have had problems finding an inch square punch. All the ones I have found are an inch across the diagonal and not by the edges? If anyone has solved this problem please let me know.

So the animals have been cut by hand and layered onto a 2 inch (by the diagonal) plain square punch and then layered onto a wavy edge punch. And a bit of twine added, a vital instant repair item for farms.

I was craving a wonderful stamp by Creative Individuals which has some wonderful chickens on it but I just had to let that craving go.

Grungy Monday 26

2011-11-12T11:42:00.000Z

This is my Grungy Monday contribution following Tim Holtz's technique which can be seen here:

HERE

The products I used were a TH stamp, Distress inks, Rosette die, Gold embossing, music vellum, ribbons, charm and bauble sticker.

Dragon's Dream: Tag it on: Mr Magorium's Wonder Emporium

2011-11-08T13:41:00.000Z

A half hour play today before work allowed me to put this together for Dragon's Dream: Tag it on for their challenge of Mr Magorium's Wonder Emporium. So pleased I was able to meet the deadline and not forget it was Tuesday. LOL

Another great challenge.

Grungy Monday 25

2011-11-06T11:29:00.003Z

I was in New Zealand when my mother died. We had just arrived after being in Australia for 4 weeks. Heading towards the Bay of Islands stopping at a campsite near a natural hot spa by the coast.

The phone call bringing the news in the middle of the night which surprisingly only woke me. Our first night in a new and beautiful country.

Creeping out the camper bus with only my nightdress on and a fleece jacket I managed to grab noiselessly on my way out. Sitting on the sea wall by the camper looking at the clear night filled with stars which look so different in another hemisphere. The sky nearly filling my whole view. No light pollution. Just astoundingly large and bright. Funny I cannot now remember what the moon was doing? What phase? But the wonder and the sadness I felt and the smallness we are in the universe yet the ability to fill so many people with so much love. I sat there and thought about so many things. About being a mother, about the miracle of life growing within you, about giving birth and the magic of breast feeding and nourishing those babes you love so completely. Did my mother feel the same about her babies? How honoured I felt to be a woman and to be given these gifts in life. About unconditional love.

I remember getting so cold sitting there on that wall. I wanted to get a blanket but I did not want to wake anyone, to disturb this sad but peaceful and special space I needed to have. I did not want their comfort at that time. I needed the universe, the stars and to swim in the immenseness of it all, to let my thoughts wander and ponder and reflect. But how cold I was.

There were shooting stars travelling across the sky from time to time. How magical that was. No need to say what symbolism I conjured in my mind seeing this phenomena.

I think I must have taken paper and pen out with me when I left the van? Or did I creep back in to get it knowing it was on the table just inside the door. If I did why did I not pick up a blanket? Not possible without creating disturbance? I do not now know.

I began to write my thoughts sitting on that wall below the vast sky of stars and the sea lapping on the shore. I found it cathartic and it gave what I was experiencing shape. My feelings and thoughts were so intense. I think after filling numerous pages with thoughts I then just wanted a few lines to sum up the emotion I was feeling. And these words on the tag are what I came up with.

It was quiet the day my Mother died.

Sadness is quiet.

I thought about the sunrise for me

and the sunset for her.

By now the first signs of a new day were showing. Once done I crept back into the van and curled up under the covers waiting to feel warm again.

Grungy Monday 25
www.timholtz.com
Distress stains, Distress inks, Embossing folder, Butterfly die, Heart die.

Show a house with Simon Says

2011-11-04T15:16:00.000Z

This week Simon Says Stamp and Show a House. Well here is mine.
The house stamp is from Paperbag Studios which I stamped onto fabric and paper to create a collage look. I have also used stamps from Stampotique and Paper Artsy, combined these with paper I coloured with Acrylic inks and a sponged sun and some wiggly stitching.

Altered Poison Bottle with Stampotique

2011-11-03T11:47:00.000Z

Fly me to the Moon

After much thought this is what I came up with for The Altered Poison Bottle with Stampotique.

My sense of humour is evident again! I know I have used Smile flying before with these wings but really I just love him too much like this not to use him again and felt it was just so apt with Rocket Fuel not to have him taking off to the moon. I did think about calling this "Bermuda Here I Come" but with the trend at the moment to use songs and films as inspiration "Fly me to the Moon" won out in the end. Hope you enjoy.

Trains, Planes and Automobiles with Dragon's Dream Tag it On

2011-11-01T16:07:00.000Z

I decided to use a plane on my tag for the Dragon's Dream: Tag it on challenge. I thought the post stamps from different parts of the world would also be apt. Quite a quick make but enjoyable. Almost forgot to post it as I made it last week and had not got around to photographing it. Lucky I found it on my desk!

Holiday Ornament Swap with Gingersnaps

2011-10-29T12:39:00.001+01:00

This is another of the tags I have made for The Holiday Ornament Swap, the current art exchange with Gingersnaps. I have also incorporated the Tim Holtz technique that is our challenge this week over on Grungy Monday. So this tag will also be entered there. You can see the technique if you click below.

Tim Holtz Presents: Perfect Distress

We would very much like to have a couple more UK players in this Holiday Ornament swap and you have until the end of October to sign up. All my ornaments will be large tags, similar to this and with more than one layer. If you want to see what else is on offer take a look at some of my earlier posts. I will only be sending out this sort of tag. There is one with a reindeer, another with skates, so why not take a look. To join in you need to sign up to the Yahoo group. There are more details at Gingersnaps. Just follow this link.

I was pleased with the Christmas tree as it felt a bit plain until I stamped the music with embossing ink and then rubbed with perfect pearls. I rather like the look. The scroll on the side was the Tim Holtz technique you can see if you click the link above.

I feel I have already started my 12 tags of Christmas.

Bookmarks for Girlfriends?

2011-10-28T12:51:00.000+01:00

I was thinking what little handmade gifts could be made for girlfriends at Christmas and thought that these wonderful heads would make great bookmarks. I can just see them looking out from the pages of a book. These are a sample of the new stamps that will be available from Rogue Redhead early next week. Just love them and I like them as the headers of bookmarks too!

Last Guest Designer make for The Artistic Stamper

2011-10-28T10:28:00.000+01:00

Boo Hoo this is my last contribution as GD on The Artistic Stamper blog. I have loved being part of their team and playing with the fabulous stamps. This is just a sneek peek of my last make. To see more and read the details just click HERE!

Black and Grey with Gingersnaps and Simon Says One Colour

2011-10-27T12:50:00.001+01:00

Black and Grey with Gingersnaps. Well being October it just had to be. The two children remind me of the Munster children when portrayed like this. Had fun? I think so! Great challenge. Why not come and join the fun and have a look at all the different interpretations over on Gingers.

I am also entering this into The Simon Says Stamp and Show challenge which is to use one colour.

Stripes with Simon Says and Christmas Tag

2011-10-23T13:02:00.000+01:00

This is my latest make. It is for Simon Says Stamp and Show where the challenge was to use stripes in the make. The background had acrylic paint stripped randomly on it and when dry Distress ink added. I also the ran it through an embossing folder with uneven stripes which had also been inked with Brushed Corduroy first. It gave an interesting background. The icicles and skated where some Glimmer Mist chips that I already had. These were inked and skates also stamped with music. Sparkles were added to the icicle to make it glitter.

The rossette was a Tim Holtz die. I used the snowflake tissue tape onto paper first and then cut out. Bits and bobs from my stash completed the composition.

This is also a tag I have made for The Christmas Ornament Swap over on Gingersnaps. It is not too late to join in and we desperately need some more UK players. The idea original came from Tim's 12 tags of Christmas. I just thought they would look wonderful on a tree as decorations or made into a swag. I think you have till the end of the month to join in. It should be wonderful and what a great way to start Christmas.

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly with Dragon's Dream Tag it on.

2011-10-22T10:33:00.000+01:00

Had a bit of fun with this one with Dragon's Dream, Tag it on. Could not believe I found some cardstock with GOOD written on it. How perfect was that! So in the end it was a little gem that just came together.
There are some other great samples on the blog. Why not hop over, take a look and maybe join in?

Tim in 10 (thats quick work)

2011-10-21T17:27:00.000+01:00

It is amazing what you can do in 10 minutes if you pre plan and have all the elements to hand ready to go. This is the challenge this week over at Grungy Monday. Usually it takes me far longer as I am looking for things as I go and then get distracted. Not this time!

Ingredients

Paper Artsy Paper

Tim Holtz Stamp

Black Archival

Masking fluid

Red Card

Holly Leaves

Gold Bow

Red Stickles

GO.......

Mask the Santa image which is pre printed on the Paper Artsy paper. While this is drying print the TH stamp onto red card. Cut out section to use. Check masking fluid is dry if need be give it a blast with a heat gun. Not to close or the masking fluid may do something peculiar. Stamp the stamp again over the masked Santa. Glue the red section of card to match the image. Stick ribbon on. Rub masking fluid off. Glue holly leaves on and finally add red Stickles where the berries are. Cut image to fit black glossy card and stick down. Voila!

Why not join the fun and challenge yourself.

Cocktail with Less is More

2011-10-20T17:38:00.000+01:00

This is my Cocktail contribution for the Less is More challenge this week. Not a lot to say really. Pretty self explanatory, just less is more! Why not take a look how other people have interpreted the theme.

Ravens with Gingersnaps

2011-10-19T15:17:00.000+01:00

This was very much inspired by re reading The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe.

It has lots of slightly quirky things in it, which are elements I nearly always enjoy, and in this instance almost reflects the madness that the narrator suffers from at the end of the poem. During the poem the narrator imagines that Seraphim (a type of angel) has entered the room with nepenthe, a drug to induce forgetfulness.

There are some other cracking creations over on Gingersnaps I am sure you will enjoy.

Ticket to Ride: Dragon's Dream: Tag it On

2011-10-17T12:29:00.000+01:00

This is my contribution for Dragon's Dream this week, where we were asked to use a ticket.
On Friday the family and I went to see Noah and the Whale. They were amazing. I was truly very impressed. A fantastic concert and they looked as if they were thoroughly enjoying it too!

So one of the lines in one of their songs is this " Waiting for my chance to come" and I felt very drawn to those words on a personal basis, hence they have come to be on this tag.

It doesn't show up to well but you may just be able to notice it. Over the ticket background I over stamped with a Sequin Waste Artistic Stamper background stamp in versamark and clear embossing powder to create a resist for the DI Wild Honey, Mustard Seed, Peeled Paint and the new Berry colour.

Fallen Angel

2011-10-15T14:06:00.000+01:00

Fallen Angel

I just had to titter when I made this.

Yes I have enjoyed myself this saturday morning and finishing with a laugh. It is great when you can make yourself laugh.

So this is my contribution to:

Simon Says Stamp and Show: Anything with Wings

and

Stampotique Challenge: It's Tag Time

Hope it may amuse you as much as it has me!

Quote on a Tag with rogue Redhead

2011-10-15T11:03:00.000+01:00

Good Friends are Always in Fashion

There are 2 new things on the go at Rogue Redhead. First a challenge which is Quote on a Tag. So this is my contribution. Secondly there will be some new stamp sets out very soon. This is just a couple of images off "Milliner Misses". I could not stop myself from using them. Do keep an eye out for them over on Rogue Redhead.

Poison Plume Letter with The Artistic Stamper

2011-10-14T07:31:00.001+01:00

This is my second make for The Artistic Stamper. I have been playing with this wonderful stamp set called Airmail Bird Coallge Elements that is produced by AS. But this is just a sneek peek. To see the whole make and details just click HERE and you will be transported to The Artistic Stamper blog as if by magic!

Grungy Monday and a too late Dragon's Dream Tag

2011-10-12T17:35:00.003+01:00

This is my contribution to Grungy Monday: Holtz-ian Halloween and it was going to be for Dragon's Dream, Tag it on,"The Whole of the Moon" but I lost track of the days. I will let them know just in case they do still want to take a look?

So what is in this tag? Firstly Tim Holtz dies, Wrought iorn railing and the Crow from Scardy Cat and Crow die. The railing has been given the TH rust treatment. The crow was a new finish I was experimenting with. Having teenage girls you get to find out all sorts of odd things that are on the High Street. Did you know you can now get nail varnish that crackles? You need to apply it over the top of more usual varnish and as it dries it crackles. It is also matte in finish. So the crow first had 2 coats of clear nail varnish applied before the matt black crackle was applied. Who would have thought?

The background paper was card that I had first applied acrylic inks to. Then I used a Dina Wakley stamp for the sun. After applying red pan pastel I still thought it needed something else so I re stamped it with versamark and added Holly Berry Red interference embossing powder from The Stampman. It changes from red to a sort of goldy colour. I added some highlights with Sakura pens which I smudged with my fingers around the moon. TH flying crows stamped over the moon and a Wendy Vecchi Tree stamp behind the railing to give more depth. Both these images seemed to disappear somewhat so I went over them with a Sakura pen which makes them look as if they are embossed.

Play Date Cafe Challenge

2011-10-10T13:22:00.000+01:00

The colours this week at Play Date Cafe are Putrid Purple, Frightful Fushia and Slime green.

You can see the shades below:

Since Halloween will be with us soon I decided to make a Trick or Treat box and to surround it with these quirky characters.

and...

Just right for those gruesome looking body parts looking at you from inside.

Wendy Style with Simon Says Stamp and Show.

2011-10-09T10:34:00.000+01:00

I thoroughly enjoyed playing around with this challenge from Simon Says Stamp and Show. I think the Queen is my all time favourite of Wendy Vecchi's stamps. The bird was stamped and cut from some Kraft resist card I had been experimenting with. I do like the effect. Then I thought it would be pretty cool to have the bird flying away with the sentiment. A thoroughly good challenge which gave me much enjoyment. thank you.

2nd Pan Pastel Challenge: New Beginnings

2011-10-08T09:25:00.001+01:00

The second Pan Pastel challenge is called New Beginnings. So this is my contribution for this week. It is about that unfathomable dilemma. Which came first? "The chicken or the hen?" or in this case "the flower or the seed?"

The coloured background was created by using pan pastels and an embossing ink pad.

What I do when my Mojo goes!

2011-10-07T16:01:00.000+01:00

There are 2 things I do when my Mojo plays hide and seek. If it is only a little off colour I have taken to making a Scrapling or 2. I tend to either get out my most favourite stamps or rummage around for something I have not used for ages. This time I went for one of my most favourite stamps. I just adore these hares.

If my Mojo is playing serious hide and seek I take a leaf out of Hel's book. She advised me once to have a big tidy up and sort out and this tends to do the trick. You come across something that sparks a thought. Even so I usually start with something small like an ATC. Nothing too daunting and can be more easily achievable.

So this is my contribution to The Sunday Stamper where Hel's is posing this question to you.

Create Kraft Resist Card

2011-10-07T10:13:00.000+01:00

If you are interested over on Gingersnaps there is a tutorial on how to create your own Kraft resist card.

Just follow the link HERE

These Boots: Dragon's Dream: Tag it on

2011-10-04T11:31:00.000+01:00

This is my contribution for this weeks challenge at dragon's Dream, Tag it on. This is a Paperbag Studio stamp that I think is great and felt would be suitable for the challenge. It is a simple creation this week. All i have done is to stamp the image onto some waste paper that has remains of previous project workings on. Simple but effective.

Humorous Birthday with Stampotique

2011-10-03T13:34:00.000+01:00

How many candles?

I just love 2 Sticks. So simple but so useful and one of my all time faves! So today 2 Sticks has morphed into a birthday cake candle just for the Stampotique challenge for Humorous Birthday. What fun!

Steampunk Halloween

2011-10-02T09:04:00.000+01:00

I feel very honored and privileged to be joining The Artistic Stamper as their guest designer for October. To be working alongside such an awesome group of designers. I bow to you all.

And to be allocated October! Such a fun month. This is going to be great for me. I intend to have fun and I hope I can bring a little fun into your lives too!

This is a taster of my first contribution using

these really cool stamps from The Artistic Stamper which I just love. They are listed under Steampunk but I felt they would be ideal for halloween as well. Quirky and funny. Just what I like.

To see the whole project just click here to be transported over to the Artistic Stamper Creative Team blog.

Turquoise, Blue and Purple with Gingersnaps

2011-09-29T09:14:00.000+01:00

Gingersnaps current challenge is to use Turquoise, blue and purple. Some more colours I love to use together. Here I was playing with my new Dina Wakley stamps after creating layers and subtle resist with Claudine Helmuth Matte Medium. Since I have incorporated a resist in the making I am also contributing this into Hel's weekly Sunday Stamper.

Mother & Stitching: Dragon's Dream and Pan Pastel Challenge

2011-09-27T12:36:00.002+01:00

I am very pleased that I have been able to join this challenge at Dragon's Dream in the nick of time. I must admit the subject had me stumped for a while. But as it has turned out I am very happy with the result. I am loving the colours and since my mother is no longer alive I love the dream like quality of the figure. Very ethereal.

I used a number of materials which included acrylic inks and stamping with embossing pad and adding pan pastels. So I am very pleased to also enter this into the First Pan Pastel Challenge.

Art Journey: Autumn Colours

2011-09-27T09:41:00.000+01:00

Today...Begin

I must admit I love to use these colours! So thank you Art Journey for choosing them!

For the background I created it in Tim Holtz fashion which you can see HERE.

Then I used various stamps from the grunge set to add more depth. The Gentlemen were printed onto parchment. The colours looked so autumnal it really reminded me of the light at this time of year, particularly in the afternoon and the sun is getting lower. So to give this warm glow to the men I added some gilded touches as they walk amongst the fallen leaves.

The leaves are a process I developed which I have never seen anywhere else. They are actually dried leaves which I have heat embossed. These leaves had such a great colour to them that I only used clear embossing powder on them. Sometimes if the colour of the leaves are not so rich I will use a mixture of metallic embossing powders which gives another great look. You can see a tutorial on how to do it HERE

Christmas Ornament Swap with Gingersnaps

2011-09-26T08:37:00.001+01:00

There is a new swap just starting over on Gingersnaps which I believe should be great fun! Things to hang on the Christmas Tree or decorate the house with at Christmas. There are many things these could be and below I have just created a few possibilities.

Firstly a Tag I made along the lines of one of the Tim Holtz 12 tags of Christmas, I think from Christmas 2009.

Secondly a tag along the lines of that above but completely my creation.

Thirdly a double sided Acrylic ornament taped with metal tape.

Fourthly a double sided Tim Holtz die that has been stamped and embossed.

My aim with the above was just to try to demonstrate the variety of ornaments that could be created. I must admit my favourite are the tags but a variety is good as well.

For more details please click on the link HERE

Third entry for Less is More!

2011-09-23T11:03:00.000+01:00

This is my third contribution towards the Less is More challenge this week to try to get to 1,000 entries.

The stamps I have used are from Rogue Redheads: Floriculture and Bits and Pieces plate.

Helping to make up the numbers? at Less is More

2011-09-23T10:51:00.000+01:00

I love making Scrapling cards and haven't made one in a while, so I thought it would be perfect to try and make up the numbers at Less is More this week. Their challenge is to try to get to 1,000 entries. Is it possible? Not much time now until we will find out!

Less is More Challenge: 1000 entries?

2011-09-22T11:25:00.000+01:00

I decided to use this delightful stamp for this weeks Less is More challenge where they are trying to get to a1,000 entries for the week..

I have used a Crafty Individuals stamp and there is just so much to look at in it. I love the little elephant that has just taken off into flight. In fact it is the first time I have used this stamp and it certainly will not be the last!

The embossing is one of Tim Holtz's embossing folders which I think adds a little interest. I really like the uneven edge it gives.

Black and White and a hint of colour with Stampotique

2011-09-21T14:39:00.000+01:00

Come, my lovely!

Here is my offering for the current Stampotique challenge which is black, white and a hint of colour.

I ummed and ahhed a while and eventually this little underwater scene came to mind. Well, a Mermaid would not have a dog as a companion, (maybe a dog fish) but my Mermaid's pet is this delightful octopus and hence she is calling "Come, my lovely" Both these images are by Daniel Torrente.

I set her floating on this music score which is another Stampotique stamp, a row of tags stamped with music. I felt this appropriate since mermaids are renowned for the most alluring songs to entice fishermen to follow them.

I have just spent ages unsuccessfully trying to find this image on Stampotique. If anyone knows the artist I will be able to credit them.

I also found these beautiful sticks that were blown down in the wind and covered in this wonderful lichen. Perfect, I thought, to suggest a seaweed at the bottom of the ocean.

Shared Moments with Gingersnaps

2011-09-21T09:22:00.000+01:00

This creation was very much inspired by looking at Joanne Wardle's lovely cards that are coloured with pencils. Even down to finding these wonderful Kraft coloured cards. I hope I have made it enough my own by adding the embellishments and the size of the image and to give credit to Joanne who was the inspiration behind it.

The words Shared Moments, to me, really conjured up this style and type of image. I felt this type of colouring would also suit that remembering quality it gives off. The stamp is one from Paperbag Studios, who seem so good at creating these images.

So do go over to Gingersnaps to see all the other ways the design team have interpreted Shared Moments.

Dedicated Follower of Fashion: Tag it on.

2011-09-19T11:18:00.000+01:00

I love making up dresses and layers and fabric and lace etc. This is one I have made for Dragon's Dream Tag it on. Just to say I was in my element. Such fun.

I drew the frock shape onto paper that I had already coloured with inks and sprays etc. Stamped and embossed a grungy word, coffee stain image and then just played with colour and fabrics and texture.

Fantastic challenge. Thank you!

Simon Says Show some Steampunk

2011-09-18T10:52:00.001+01:00

So this is my contribution to Simon Says show some Steampunk. So what can I say about it?

I started by cutting a tag from Paper Artsy paper and then obscuring the print slightly with a white distress dabber. Then smooshed some distress inks over this.

The mannequin stamp is one I have had for years to which I applied metal wings to which were cut from the winged heart die, (yes my favourite material, tomato puree tubes) and then put through an embossing folder with black stazon applied ontop which catches the high spots.

I used a variety of other Tim Holtz dies and grungepaper to cut out clock, cogs and pennant. The clock face was rusted by the Tim Holtz method. The clock hands are from tomato puree tubes again. I also came across some lush embossing powders by Judikins called Jasper, Closionne, Garnet, Brass, Copper. Again an old purchase. I am not sure if they were the first embossing powders I ever bought?

Hope you enjoy my contribution as much as I enjoyed creating it.

Think Outside the ATC with Rogue Redheads

2011-09-16T14:02:00.001+01:00

I love making ATC's so was delighted to see that Rogue Redheads had a challenge to Think Outside the ATC. I have used various images from several of the plates. The first two are from the Relish Reading plate and the last one is from the newest most charming plate called Beach Babes. Do take a look over on the site. There is lots of loveliness to look at.

Less is More Challenge: Seeing Double

2011-09-15T10:03:00.000+01:00

This is my contribution to The Seeing Double challenge which is this weeks Less is More challenge.

The stamps I have used are from Elusive Images called Retro Flowers. And I just love them! I have not yet used their full potential, but do love them. The words are from a sheet from Rogue Redheads called Floriculture. Another very useful set of stamps.

The Octopede Factory: Quotes

2011-09-14T08:55:00.000+01:00

I have found a new challenge blog run by Lily at The Octopede Factory. This week the challenge is quotes and I felt this ATC I made was perfect for the challenge. The Quails came from Stampotique and the wonderful words from Estelle at Stampsmith. I just think these words say so much and I am sure we all have a friend that does this for us. Currently I think it is about my favourite saying!

Sunday Stamper 9/11

2011-09-11T16:09:00.001+01:00

I have been very moved by a number of tributes that have been created in remembrance of 9/11 that I just had to join in. For me it became quite important to start and finish it actually on 9/11, not that this really matters.

There are some Tim Holtz stamps that fit the bill rather well but I had already seen these used for 9/11 so wanted to use something different. I trawled through my stamps and came up with these Paper Artsy stamps. However I used the Rays at the top to try and lighten the whole look and create a sense of heaven? We all wish our loved ones to be in a happier place than us.

I got out my heat tool, that is like a teeny tiny iron, and burnt all the edges. I added measuring tape ribbon to show 9/11 and even found a price tag in the Salvage stickers that said 9/11. I hung the numbers at the bottom by sandwiching paper clips on to the numbers and hanging from Tim Holtz studs. A few kisses at the top to hang by as well as a piece of charcoal to represent all the burning at the scene.

The main stamp at the bottom has a skyline in the background that looks like a tumbling city and the woman with the rays reminded me of the Statue of Liberty as well as someone's lost love.

Thank you Hel's and the Sunday Stamper for such a poignant challenge that is so so apt and so current and truly a Time to Remember.

Tag it on & Sunday Stamper

2011-09-10T13:29:00.005+01:00

This is my creation for Tag it On: Colour challenge "RED, Red Wine" and Hel's Sunday Stamper which the theme is "Love".

So I decided to get my Wendy Vecchi stamps out and give them a dust and a play with, and this is what I came up with. The tag is cut from some wonderful new Card from Pink Paisley called Mistables. the honeycomb design in the background is the resist pattern and I just smooched (since the theme is "Love"! LOL) Wild Honey, Worn Lipstick and Aged Mahogany Distress inks over it. "Love" the result.

I also "whipped", from one of Hel's makes, the pen nib for the butterfly which has the words Memories engraved on it. And I can't resit turquoise with these colours so the watchful eye was added in this colour. I also added some lace to the left hand side, which had been dyed with some natural dyes, because I also thought the colour was just lush with the others.

Some of you eagle eyed may notice the date on the inchie. Yes it is the date I went on the Tim Holtz craft event. It was one of the inchies I made that I rejected for the inchie folder that was created for Tim.

Less is More: Week 31: Metallic

2011-09-05T10:59:00.000+01:00

I think the title says it all!

So for the LIM challenge this week I have used Smile from Stampotique and a Tim Holtz Winged Heart die which I used to cut some Plum metal sheet. This was then put through an embossing folder and the high points sanded to highlight the silver metal below.

FLY was embossed with silver. Nothing else needed, I do think!

Marcy's Treehouse with Simon Says

2011-09-04T11:51:00.002+01:00

This week on Simon Says Stamp and Show there is a blog hop celebration. To celebrate I have made Marcy a treehouse for her cat and herself to play in!

The theme this week was Anything Goes so as they say I went to town, or climbed the tree for this weeks challenge.

Hope you enjoy this folly. Marcy is a Stampotique design. The cat is from D's Stamps and the hat was in my stash? which was to large so once it was stamped I cut it down to size. The two characters were stamped onto grunge board and the Paper Artsy house was stamped 4 times onto Kraft resist card before colouring and erecting.

The picket fence around the edge is a narrow piece of lace stuck into place.

One more picture as it shows the tassel on the top, which I think is rather a fun idea.

Hope you enjoy.

Stampotique Bookmarks and Blog Hop

2011-09-03T08:59:00.001+01:00

There has been a magnificent program on BBC Radio 4, Classic Serial, Gormanghast and Titus Groan.

Absolutely stunning. I wish I could hear it again. So whilst listening to the series these Stampotique characters designed by Daniel Torrente kept jumping into the fore front of my mind. What better way to use them but with a bookmark to pay tribute to the wonderful books by Mervyn Peake.

This fellow is one of the Christmas Elfs and I thought he was best suited to represent Titus. I needed to change his head gear and find a more suitable attire for the heir of Gormenghast. I also like the way this change of headwear really changes the way you can use this stamp. It becomes more versatile for any season of the year. All of the stamps are from Stampotique: Elf, Splatter, Abstract foilage, Crown and Spirals. Sorry I cannot remember all the correct names for these stamps. The Crow is one of Tim Holtz's as I do not have Moon Girl's Crow, otherwise I would have used this.

Ooh how excited am I. I just checked out Sunday Stamper and the theme is birds. I have a bird on my bookmark so it counts! Yipeee! Hiya Hun I am joining you again!

The Sweetest Stamps with Rogue Redhead

2011-09-02T11:30:00.000+01:00

Rogue Redheads has done it again. There is a new stamp set out which is just adorable!

They remind me of wonderful childhood books I had as a child and lend themselves to be coloured in. I like to use coloured pencils as I like the watercolour effect it gives. But I must admit I have not tried Copic or Promarkers. I feel more comfortable on the whole with coloured pencils.

Do take a look at the stamp set and also what the other designers have created with these adorable images over on Rogue Redheads.

MEN!

2011-08-31T14:08:00.000+01:00

The Artistic Stamper Challenge in August is MEN!

Aren't these Spanish Gentlemen just gorgeous!

Whilst I was making this I kept looking at the gentlemen's expressions and wondering what they could possibly be looking at? One looks highly amused. Another completely shocked and the third worried, dismayed and perplexed. It finally came to me. I know I shouldn't have taken my bra off! LOL

To say I am the wrong side of 40 + you should get the picture. They were far to gentlemanly to say anything of course but with those expressions they don't need to!

I created an alcohol ink background using colours that reminded me off old mossy stone walls. I decided to add some dimension by re stamping on different paper and cutting out the gentlemen, so they would stand out. Of course I had to play with their headwear. I was thinking about what next to do with them and was just playing around with alternatives when I popped them onto a black glossy card and really liked the simplicity and masculine look it gave. So that is what I did.

Travel

2011-08-27T13:09:00.000+01:00

This is my contribution to the theme Travel. This week there are 2 challenges on this theme. Firstly "Simon Says Stamp and Show" and secondly "Tag it On"

I have wanted a sneaker stamp for sometime but have never found one, so I was delighted when the new papers from 7 Gypsies called Off the Wall came out. There was no question I just had to have them.

I combined the paper with stamping. The harlequins, both the word stamps and birds in flight - all stamps by Tim Holtz.

I constructed an alternative tag hanger for the piece which I am rather pleased with. Also the distressing on the label went well and ended up looking like very worn old leather with a feel that is not dissimilar.

Thanks for looking.

Anything but a Card; Art Journey challenge

2011-08-26T12:09:00.001+01:00

August's challenge over on Art Journey is "Anything but a Card", so I have made a tag bookmark!

I adore this Summer Girl enjoying fishing and I had great fun playing with paints, inks, stencils and stamps to create the background. I just had to put a bit of dimension on with the fish on the line. I paper pieced the girl so she would come to life a bit more.

Come on Everybody!

2011-08-25T08:00:00.002+01:00

There is a fabulous challenge on the go and September is nearly with us, the last of the Summer holidays must largely be over? So please come on and play with us at Gingersnaps.

Encouraging Words Fridge Magnets

What could be more fun! All of mine are ATC size but they can range in size from 2" x 2" up to 4" X 4" and anything in-between. There are some more guide lines below. But first if you are in the UK the magnet backing is available from Amazon.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sheet-Adhesive-Magnetic-Rectangles-0-7mm/dp/B004RFEH6C/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1314206353&sr=8-15

You need to sign up by September 1st but you have until September 15th to complete them. In the UK or Europe you can send them to me (a UK address) and in the US to Ali (US address). These details will be available once you have signed up.

Gingersnap Creations Encouraging Words Magnets Exchange

Requirement: each magnet must be between 2”x2” and 4”x4” and include some stamping and more than one layer.

Media: anything that will take a magnet. Magnetic sheets, magnetic strips and business card backs can be found in most stationary stores and many craft stores.

Number of pieces: 4 unique designs for 4 unique designs

Due Date: September 15, 2011

Sign-up/withdrawal date: September 1, 2011

Creative Requirements:

Each piece needs to be original (no photocopies), but you can use whatever supplies and style you prefer. Please ensure your base is sturdy enough to support all layers and embellishments. Remember to include your name on the back of each piece - your email/blog address is optional. Finally, please make sure the pieces you send are at a level you would be happy to receive in return.

For this exchange, please create 4 different pieces to be exchanged.

Netty has some really fab ones on her site. A very cool and unique idea. Do hop over and take a look. If these don't inspire I don't know what will!

Here are mine to start your creative juices flowing:

Here is a link to the original post for more details:
http://gingersnapcreations.blogspot.com/2011/08/gcae8-encouraging-words-refrigerator.html

I am really looking forward to your creations.

Bright and Beautiful

2011-08-24T18:43:00.000+01:00

I created this tag for the Bright and Beautiful August Creative Individuals challenge and the Gingersnap Tribute to Teens.

I just adore this stamp. It is an image that certainly speaks a thousand words. It must bring back such happy memories to so many of us and I just felt the words fitted so perfectly with the image.

Less is More: Things that Move!

2011-08-24T18:05:00.000+01:00

This may make you laugh. It did me!

This CAS card started off as being the submission for the Colours from your flag challenge. But yes, I did just miss the deadline. Damn, I first thought and then I read that this weeks theme is "Things that Move". Since I had used 2 sticks before with springs, how else would they move? I decided to just add these again and voila, it would fit with this weeks theme.

Great save, even if I say so myself.

Altered Page with Stampotique 36

2011-08-21T12:05:00.001+01:00

As you my have guessed by the lack of activity on my blog recently that we have been away for a while. It has been wonderful to come home and get inky and messy again and to just play. So this is my contribution to the Altered Page challenge with Stampotique.

I continually view youthful people and am amazed that even if they are not "beautiful" in classic terms, there is still such beauty in youth. I thought this character was well fitted to the thought.

Waterloo Sunset: Sunday Stamper

2011-08-03T11:43:00.000+01:00

Waterloo Sunset? Must be taken from the Bridge if it is! However it was fun playing with all my inks and this great embossing folder. Perfect for the job. It reminded me of those magical times when "Driving in my Car" and suddenly there is a most magnificent sight to behold. It does seem to "awaken the soul".

We are off for a few days soon otherwise I think I would go back and add some people into the car. Some funny cut out faces. Maybe the family. I think this would add something. I will probably do so at a later date. Also the chrome additions to the car do not look so stark in real life., but I may go back and make these more subtle. ink the edges or something so they are more in keeping. Maybe walnut stain?
So Hels, an incomplete contribution this week but well on its journey.

Less is more: Feeling Fruity

2011-08-03T11:31:00.000+01:00

This is the first of my postings today as I will be away then until Sunday. Fairly self explanatory. Less is more, Clean and simple: Feeling Fruity.
In real life there is more shading on the strawberry, with more variation of colour showing.
I rather liked the saying and it felt fitting with picking lots from our garden.

Here's to you Amy!

2011-07-29T12:58:00.002+01:00

It is such a great shame that Amy's life ended so tragically. What a talent and such a haunting rich voice. It always amazed me the sounds she made always seemed so natural and effortless. So today I have made a tribute to her...

This sort of evolved as I went along. Since it is memory of Amy I liked the way the tailor's dummy signifies a person yet is not actually here or real. The "lengthen or shorten here" reminded me how the choices we make in life can affect the numbers of years we may live. And the wing was symbolic of the next stage of existence, whatever that may be?

I also wanted to use items I had not used before. The embossing folder which I used on core cardstock. Once sanded a darker colour shows through. The Sewing Room die from Tim Holtz and the Sizzix wings. I must admit the embossing folders I used on the last two items have been used many times.

I decided to use this smokey blue for the sentiment. I did try a more coordinated colour but decided not only did this show up more but the colour worked beautifully with the pinks and the words needed to be emphasized.

I am actually entering this for four challenges for once. Firstly Hel's challenge was to remember Amy and to use Black from her Back to Black album. Secondly it is for Grungy Monday as it uses both Rock Candy and Rock Candy Distress Stickles. Thirdly it is for Simon Says which is "Anything Goes" week. And fourthly for Dragon's Dream which I have not entered for a few weeks.

There is a fantastic Tim Holtz video HERE on using Rock Candy.

Stampotique: Red, Yellow and Orange

2011-07-28T11:35:00.000+01:00

Oh goody.... Thank you Stampotique...........I am loving using these colours at the moment!

First Kiss

I love the story this picture tells. The little guy looks so embarrassed yet proud and rather overwhelmed. It does endear you to him. I had to give him big rosy cheeks in his achievement. Not quite sure how he managed to be so brave. I was toying with what title to give this. It veered towards First Love, Summer Romance but in the end I thought First Kiss was the most appropriate.

To start I used my acrylic inks (which I love by the way) onto watercolour paper. Once dry I started by stamping the Heart String and the Fence. I then used masking fluid so I could overstamp with the Tree, Marcy and Smile. I do adore Smile, he does make me smile. finally I stamped Mwah! and added bits of colour to the Heart String and Marcy and Smile. All these stamps are Stampotique stamps and are available from Happy Daze and The Stamp Attic in the UK.

Less is More Challenge: Button or ribbon

2011-07-27T14:49:00.000+01:00

This is my button entry for The Less is More Challenge.

As less is more I think this about sums up my entry.

Hope you enjoy.

Stampsmith : Vintage

2011-07-21T15:56:00.000+01:00

There are going to be quite a number of photos in this posting as there is quite a lot to see.

I was keen to join the Stampsmith Challenge again as I do not think I have since March. Their challenge subject this month is Vintage and I was thinking for a while what I could make. I love these images from the sheet "Life is a Balancing Act" and I just have not used them enough. I set myself the extra challenge of using this set.

As you can see they are just wonderful.

A Juggler. I added his balls to a thin piece of wire so they look as if they are in the air.

So where did I begin? My first thoughts were to look at old Circus posters. I had a good browse on Google images to wet my appetite and get the creative juices flowing. And you will never guess what i found! I found a link to a free download of a Vintage Circus Carousel courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Hey, I thought, this would be great and what fun to construct. I would not need to use the characters they provided but these great images instead.

Another Acrobat

I even used the Tightrope Walker and created a high wire for his act!

Another glimpse with a balancing act in front.

A close up of the unicyclist.

And what is even better the whole platform rotates!

Hope you enjoyed my playtime.

The Artistic Stamper: Hot, hot, hot!

2011-07-20T15:37:00.000+01:00

This is my contribution to July Challenge at Artistic Stamper: Hot, hot, hot!

The background I have created with acrylic inks onto watercolour paper. This paper has a texture so when you stamp on it you tend to get a worn looking image, which I like. they look as if they are walking into a heat haze. Quite ethereal.

I have also punched out some hydrangea flowers as a trim. The tag has been stamped with crimson archival and Jo's Flower Cube from Stampotique.

This certainly could not be a cold image, but hot, hot, hot.

Flower Power with Stampotique

2011-07-18T16:22:00.004+01:00

This time I thought I would make an ATC for the Stampotique challenge. I decided to use the dangling heart stamp in a different way and thought they look rather fun as flowers. As it was an ATC I could also use up scraps of inked paper I had created from early challenges.

Since the challenge was Flower Power, the time of "make love not war"' I felt the heart flowers were more than appropriate. Eerily (how I love the way this word is spelt and sounds) I also felt the hearts resembled crosses on graves symbolic with war and death.

I was quite pleased with this as I felt it looked fresh and fun yet poignant.

Art Journey Challenge: Children

2011-07-17T11:57:00.001+01:00

This is an experiment that I was playing with, and I am pleased with the result. It has worked very well. I was using this glorious image for the Art Journey Challenge: Children

I really like this image and find it very evocative of childhood. I could not resist putting these words, from Tim Holtz, to it either. They felt perfect. The Art Journey stamps I mainly used are from the Grunge set. A fabulous set in my mind.

So here are some details of my experiment. I started with the Tim Holtz technique acrylic resist. You can see it HERE. I then stamped extra details, mainly from the Grunge plate, and used sequin waste through which I added Weathered Wood distress ink. The main experiment was to also stamp the image onto acetate. I have been playing with acetate a bit recently. When I laid this over the acrylic image I just loved the result. It gave back the image more detail and it also created a wonderful 3D effect to the squatting child. I was well chuffed.

Grungy Monday 15

2011-07-14T12:19:00.001+01:00

This is my contribution to Grungy Monday this week using Tim's method that you can see HERE

My first layer on the tag was Mustard Seed. The smooshed colour over the top is Barn Red. I rather like this combo but I seem to be using these colours quite a bit at the moment. Must be getting over my low point, me thinks!

The butterflies had Fired Brick, Brushed Corduroy, Aged Mahogony and the dark purply one (old age is showing, can't remember it's name just at the mo) applied to the butterfly stamps and then the Tim technique again used. Just come to me! The purple ink is Dusty Concord.

Hope you enjoy.

Gears, Cogs and Watch Bits with Gingersnaps

2011-07-13T08:07:00.002+01:00

What a fantastic challenge from Gingersnaps and so suitable for the wonderful images from Dezinaworld. Here I have used two. One of her wonderful tags which are works of art in themselves and I have another of her images which is the woman in the frame.

I am sure you can tell this is one of "those" Ikea frames. I am sure many people have them lurking in their stash. Well, I eventually brought mine out and decided to use it. Numerous acrylic paint daubers were applied to the large frame. Experimenting and adding until I was happy. I initially stopped when it was much darker and then decided to lighten it. Not sure what colours I used now, but quite a few. I am sure I could never repeat it.

It was then stamped with, I think, some Paper Artsy stamps. The frame is definitely a Paper Artsy stamp and I think the watch is too? Various Tim Holtz dies were used and the railings, hinge and key hole were given the rusty embossing powder treatment. Of course I had to use my favourite up cycled material again, my famous tomato puree tubes. Several images from The Grapich 45 Steampunk paper set and I think that is about it.

Stampman Challenge: Alcohol Inks

2011-07-12T11:22:00.000+01:00

Here is my contribution to The Stampman challenge where we were to use alcohol inks.

The background to the image is made with alcohol inks of glossy paper. The background has been made with distress stains and further stamps applied: Splatter and Star from Stampotique and designed by Jo Capper-Sandon. These are available from Happy Daze and The Stamp Attic in the UK. The main image is one I love from Crafty Individuals. It is currently one of my favourites.

Grungy Monday on a Sunday

2011-07-10T13:46:00.000+01:00

Fantastic technique this week over on Grungy Monday. This is one which I really enjoy. You can see how to do it HERE.

I have used a variety of Tim Holtz stamps to create this tag. I hope you enjoy the words. I thought they were a bit of a pun and fitted this technique perfectly, since it does create an image with perspective.

Rogue Redhead and Scraplings

2011-07-08T11:48:00.000+01:00

Some of you may remember that I love "Scraplings". A little while ago I had no idea what these were. I must admit I secretly thought they were rather an odd concept. To make such small cards. But once Gingersnaps had them as a swap challenge and I started making them I just thought, wow, I love these.

Looking at the most recent stamps from Rogue Redhead it felt that they would be perfect for scraplings. So here are just a few to start you off. They are also perfect for getting over crafting block. If you are feeling puzzled as to what to do one day, may I suggest you just make a scrapling. I find it can really help to break down the block one may be experiencing and then leads on to other thoughts.

Why not try it sometime.

Also may I suggest you take a look at the other stamps and creations over on Rogue Redhead site.

On The Road with Gingersnaps and Dezinaworld

2011-07-06T09:29:00.000+01:00

This is my creation for On The Road challenge with Gingersnaps. Yes I have used my favourite up cycling material which is tomato puree tubes. These have been run through the Cuttlebug and as you can see work wonderfully in this little machine with a big attitude. I then wrapped the various patterns around the frame and highlighted it gently with Stazon.

I have used various stamps from Tim Holtz and Paper Artsy and included one of the very gorgeous tags from Dezinaworld, Gingersnaps sponsor this month. You must go a look at her collage steampunk tags. There are all glorious. This one I scrunched up tight into a little ball. Unwrapped it and used walnut stain distress ink to age it further.

There is loads more inspiration over on Gingersnaps, so why not take a look.

Simon Says and Sunday Stamper

2011-07-05T14:15:00.001+01:00

Simon Says Stamp and Show and Sunday Stamper are again sharing this make.

Simon Says Stamp and Show challenge was to use a flourish. In the background I laid flourish stencils down and sprayed over them wit Tattered Angel sprays. I also used stamps to add flourishes by over stamping onto the background.

For Sunday Stamper the challenge was to use Writing. I thought these words were very poignant especially as the images depict an era where it was very difficult for women to be liberated and free to follow their dreams.

The images are some wonderful Steampunk downloads from Dezinaworld.

Dezinaworld is the July sponsor for Gingersnaps. All this month there will be some wonderful creations on Gingersnaps using her images. There is a fab sheet of Steampunk tags that are available from her site. Really yummy. Do take a look.

Simon Says and Sunday Stamper

2011-07-02T13:39:00.002+01:00

I am hoping this will fit for both Simon Says, "Show a Word" and The Sunday Stamper is "Words". All the S's at least! There are some more words on the heart, which is a French script stamp from Stampotique and designed by Jo Capper-Sandon, available in the UK from Happy Daze and The Stamp Attic

The background to this tag is a very simple technique using acrylic paints. There is a tutorial I have written which you can see over on Gingersnaps.

Alcohol Inks with Stampman Butterfly

2011-07-01T14:34:00.002+01:00

How about that! Second post of the day. I must have a temperature or something?
Here I have combined Grungy Monday and the Stampman challenge at nth hour. Grungy Monday was to use alcohol inks and the Stampman challenge to use a moth or a butterfly. So this is what I threw together. Boy does it feel good to play again! Hoping we have an unbusy weekend so I can do lots more playing.

There is a link to TIM HOLTZ DEMONSTRATING ALCOHOL INKS VIDEO

By the Sea and Scraps

2011-07-01T09:16:00.001+01:00

I love to create these collage backgrounds particularly from using scraps of paper from past makes.

It is the first time I have used this stamp and I think she works well on this textured background. I decided as the background is so textured, she would not stamp too well, so instead stamped her onto acetate. I was pleased I was able to photograph her without a shine to show from the acetate.

I thought about adding colour to the stamped image but decided she did not need anything to detract from the background. I stitched the acetate to the tag. I always like the look of stitch combined with paper crafts and the way it has given this piece an informal frame.

I have created her for two challenges. Firstly "Scraps" with Stampotique and secondly "By the Sea" with Dragon's Dream.

Printing with Packaging Tutorial over on Gingersnaps

2011-06-30T11:27:00.001+01:00

There is a printing with packaging tutorial you may like over on Gingersnaps. It is great fun to do and i really like the weathered grungy backgrounds it is possible to create. If you are interested to read more just hop over and take a look.

This was a background I created and then used in the following piece.

Rogue Redhead: Tags

2011-06-30T11:25:00.000+01:00

I am so behind with all my posting. I do hope I get on a better wavelength soon.

These are some tags I made with the new Rogue Redhead stamps, which I just love. I felt they would also lend themselves to making gift tags and thought to combine them with some of my punches. It is easy to make a batch and have them ready to use when you need them.

There are loads more ideas for these stamps over on the Rogue Redhead site. Why not take a look? There are new posts regularly over there.

Bluebells in May: Laura Liddell

2011-06-18T08:56:00.000+01:00

Avery, very quick post to show another make with these glorious stamps from Rogue Redheads. Please follow the link to read more if you are interested but do go and see what the other designers have produced. Well worth a look!

Yes I should be somewhere else instead of posting this!