......... Inkymits crafts by Maria Simms ........

Bottle it, part 2

2012-02-27T12:33:00.000Z

Good afternoon to you!

I found time to pick my bottle up yestereday and do a little more on it, here's where its up to..

I stamped the Clarity Kingfisher and Branch in Versamark, Perfect Medium is just as good. Then I heat embossed with Cosmic Shimmer Aurora powder. (Darks & Metallics set)

THE BOTTLE GETS HOT SO I DID EMBOSSING IN 4 STAGES & GAVE BOTTLE TIME TO COOL INBETWEEN, OR THERE IS A RISK OF IT SHATTERING and/or BURNING YOURSELF.

Then I coloured using Cosmic Shimmer Watercolour Paints.

It is not easy to stamp onto a bottle with curvy bits, dust with talc first to help with static and help reduce slippiness of the bottle. If you are using Versamark/Perfect Medium and you slide around and smudge your image then you can just wipe it off and start again.

Some embellishing next I think....

Giveaway winner.

2012-02-26T12:05:00.000Z

oooops I forgot to blog this last night!

The winner of the LOTV stamp is

Minx

Congrats! Can you email me your address by 8pm Tuesday please.

Autumn Swirl from Heartfelt Creations

2012-02-25T07:26:00.001Z

Its slipper day!

oh yes I can hear you say "You always have your slippers on Simms"

True, but its actually not naughty to live in them on Saturdays, so go right now and get those marabou piped kitten heels on-and the lads too if thats what floats your boat!

ooh but before you go skidding into the shoe rack, have a look at todays card..

Its another example of the stunning Autumn Swirl stamp set from Heartfelt Creations, available through Creative Expressions.

Unfortunately pics were taken before I got the new camera, need I say more...

I stamped with White chalk ink- I find it better than White Brilliance.

I glazed the leaves on the topper with glossy accents and then sprinkled a small amount of Cosmic Shimmer pastel glitter- I know you cant see the lovely effect in the dodgy pics!

If you dont like bright coloured glitters then I definitely recommend this Pastel set, you dont see pastels too often do you.

I also used some pearly dots, Spellbinders dies, Vintage ribbon.

The sentiment is from Claritystamp.

Ok now you can go for the slippers!

Enjoy your day, whatever your doing.

Happy Birthday message up to the clouds!

2012-02-24T19:51:00.000Z

Happy Birthday Bah!

YES of course I remember, always.

xxxxx

Over the edge Die-cutting Tutorial

2012-02-24T18:01:00.000Z

I was asked about this technique a couple of days ago, so this is for the people who are still unsure how to do it.

Please forgive the rushed colouring job.

Position your cutting die over your image, framing the area you would like inside the frame.

Draw a fient pencil line around the OUTSIDE edge of the die

(i used dark pen so you can see it in pics)

Cut around the parts that are outside the circle, cut further into the image though-if you follow the lines of the image it wont show up later, for example, I have cut up her arms and both legs, this is so i can slot the die in place easier-you will understand when you do it yourself.

This pic is to show how far I have 'cut into' the image.

Slide the image into the die with the 'over the edge bits' above the cutting ridge. Jiggle your die around to the correct position- I moved mine above my line because i decided it was too far away from the little girls botty. When making your final adjustments for where you want the die to cut remember the cutting ridge is a couple of millimetres in from the edges of the die.

Now trim your excess bits off.

Now I need to turn her into a card or something!

Hope this is helpful.

Bottle it!

2012-02-23T20:50:00.000Z

Helloooo!

I said I wanted to show you something I was altering didnt I.

As you will probably know, I dont do much altered stuff, mixed medium etc, but I thought I should have a play.

So, as a personal sacrifice I emptied a half bottle of Scotch (mixed with pepsi) so I could use the bottle.

This is the first bit.

I cleaned off the label and pulled off the metal cuff. When it was properly dry inside I squeezed a little Cream Acrylic paint with a drop of water and swished it all around. Then I added a couple of drops of pale blue and dark blue to the inside of the neck so it would just run down slowly, give it a little shake to mix slighly with the Cream colour. Turn it upside down and leave it overnight so the excess paint runs out and the bottle dries.

Do you want to know whats next? me too, show you soon!

Black & White Easel

2012-02-22T22:04:00.000Z

Hello!

Todays card is one of my samples from the JustRite shows on C&C last month.

I made a very similar one for my friend/neighbour/bunnysitter, it was her birthday on Sunday.

I used

JustRite Forever Friends stamps

Spellbinders Labels 20, tag trio, Labels 12

Basket Weave Touch of Mica Mask

Tied Together Embossing folder from Couture

Black Vintage ribbon

White Organza roses

Screw top Brads

Silver Cosmic Shimmer pearly glue

White gel pen

All available from Creative Expressions

Come back tomorrow to see something Im going to decorate.

A little Giveaway...

2012-02-21T23:06:00.000Z

Evening!

Not sure where today disappeared to but suddenly its 11pm.

So I best be quick and tell you about the giveaway and get some shut eye.

This weeks giveaway is a cool stamp from Lili of the Valley

She is a good excuse to get the marker pens out isnt she, bit of sparkle for the wings...

As always there are no daft rules to be in with a chance to win, just leave me a comment. If you want to link me in your blog sidebar you are more than welcome to.

I will pick a random winner on Friday/Saturday.

Good luck!

Homework winner!

2012-02-21T09:45:00.000Z

Good Morning!

Ok I said I would leave the Claritystampers NW homework open for votes for a week, well its been a week.

Thank you so much to everybody who not only voted but left some really nice comments about all the little masterpieces, I know my ladies appreciate your encouragement.

So, who gets to choose themselves a new Claritystamp...

That would be number 3

created by our lovely Rae Dalal

She bakes nice cake too!

If your interested, our next meetings in Birkenhead are Thursday 8 March repeated on Sunday 11 March, there are a couple of places left.

Come back later for another post- I hinted at a giveaway the other day, and I wanna tell you all about my weekend!

Its not a Moroccan Snowflake, its Lilac!

2012-02-19T08:49:00.001Z

Happy Sunday folks!

This one is a scheduled post, Im either running around the house trying to do 10 things at once, or Im halfway down the M6 on my way to the Trade show at the NEC.

Anyways, here is another of my Moroccan samples from the GC Blockbuster shows.

My first instinct was to make this a snowflake but in January? I thought you might throw heavy objects at me if I did...

So its a.... its a..... its a nice hanging up thingy, yep thats what it is!

Actually you could put a mothball in the back and make it an air freshener. I do have another idea but not sure yet until I try it, let you know ok.

The sentiment is embossed with Cosmic Shimmer Aurora powder,lovely stuff!

The rest of the sentiment is 'Hope for tomorrow' but it wouldnt all fit so I just inked up the top part.

All goodies used are available from Creative Expressions.

Thats all for today, have a good one!

Maybe a giveaway tomorrow....come back and see.

Green, Black & White for a change.

2012-02-18T11:35:00.000Z

Good Morning!

Its Saturday so have you got your slippers on? coffee in hand?

Well while your taking it easy have a look at another of my samples from the Heartfelt Creations tv shows I did for Creative Expressions.

This one is using the elegant Autumn Swirl stamp

I stamped around the edges of the Green background card in Black Archival.

Then I stamped white chalk ink onto velum, turned it around and coloured the leaves on the reverse with Cosmic Shimmer watercolour paint- I didnt want it too bright you see, I added some dots of Cosmic Shimmer pearly glue to the ends of the swirls.

I stamped my sentiment onto American Seam Binding with Archival, the spotty leaf was cut using an Autumn leaf die also from Heartfelt Creations, I then embossed it with a Mica Mask.

The wooden buttons were painted with Green Cosmic Shimmer watercolour paint, the picture doesnt show the lovely shimmer as It was taken ages ago before I got my new camera.

The ribbon, twine and wooden buttons are also Creative Expressions.

Oh, incase you were wondering, I secured the velum with the brads and used cosmic shimmer glue under the leaves so it wouldnt show through.

Thats it for today.

Im off to Burleydam Garden Centre for the opening of their new Craft Centre, its full of goodies for Cardmaking, sewing, scrapbooking, cross stitching etc...

Its Captain Sam Ahoy!

2012-02-17T00:23:00.000Z

Morning gang!

Yes Im early today, I just wanted to remind you that the Talented Sam Poole is on Create & Craft at 10am & 2pm today with her fantastic new Nautical themed stamps, the sneak peeks have got my creative juices flowing- I am looking forward to getting my hands on them for sure!

Check out Sam's blog for pics and a cool knot tying tutorial!

Black & White Greetings from Paris

2012-02-15T07:39:00.003Z

Good Morning.

Todays card is another of my samples using the JustRite stamp sets Greetings from Paris, Kindness & Labels 20 Spellbinders.

These stamps are so crisp and clear,very nice to work with!

I like how the border stamp can work with the single Fleur de Lis stamp to go around corners.

I stamped the Cafe Paris tag and masked it off, then stamped the various Postcard stamps, then inked black over some copier paper to give the illusion of the postcard edges.

I also used Crinkle edge organza, bakers twine, Silver Cosmic Shimmer pearly dots, all available from Creative Expressions.

Speaking of Creative Expressions, Sam Poole is back on Create & Craft on Friday with her fantastic new stamp sets- I neeeeed those for sure,they look great. The shows are at 10am & 2pm subject to change. There are some sneak peeks on Sam's blog.

Thats all for today, see you soon!

Clarity Homework to be marked! Please vote.

2012-02-14T13:26:00.000Z

Hello All, I need your help with this, its the homework from my Claritystampers Northwest ladies.

The winner will get a Clarity stamp as a prize, but I cant pick, soooo, can you please pick a fave and leave a comment, I will count up and decide the winner in 7 days!

Number 1

Number 2

Number 3

Number 4

Number 5

Number 6

Number 7

Number 8

Number 9

Number 10

Number 11

Number 12

Number 13

Creative Expressions, ooh la la!

2012-02-13T21:26:00.000Z

Good evening gang!

I was supposed to be having a day of rest with no work of any description....

does a little blog post count as work? nope didnt think so!

So while me and Amber watch 'V' I thought I would show you another of my JustRite samples I made for the Creative Expressions shows a couple of weeks ago.

This is using the Greetings from Paris set, I love how the postcard stamps are all separate so you can use them separately with ease.

I used Wild Honey, Black Soot & Fired Brick Distress Stains for the postcard and tag.

The background was embossed with the Cog Mica Mask and a couple of colours of Cosmic Shimmer Ultra Thick Embossing powder.

Oh look its those Foliage & Spiral Blossom Spellbinders again- I wasnt kidding when I said how much I love those!

I also used Labels 4 and a Grand edgy.

See you soon!

Pink & Heartfelt

2012-02-11T09:32:00.000Z

Good Morning!

Today's card is using some lovely Heartfelt Creations goodies from Creative Expressions-Posy Patch stamps & dies, Ornate Scene window die,

This one got a little battered because its been in a box for a while.

I had some pink tissue paper from a gift and thought it would be nice as flowers!

I added some Cosmic Shimmer pearly dots, Organza rose and some pins.

The sentiment is stamped onto a Parisian?? accent- its very pretty whatever the set is called, I must try to remember them better.

Thats it for today, im racing against the battery on my laptop!

Have a lovely weekend.

Moroccan Triple Easel.

2012-02-10T07:40:00.001Z

Good morning.

I thought I would how another of my Moroccan samples today, I am back on Create & Craft at 10am & 4pm today with the Grand Calibur Blockbuster, I have a couple of new demo's for you, so hope you can join us!

I used the Moroccan Spellbinders, Heart circles & Fanciful Flight.

The sentiment is from the Thoughtful Sentiment Stamp set from Creative Expressions.

Have a good day!

A Reject ???

2012-02-08T07:26:00.004Z

Good Morning all

I thought I would show this Clarity card today, this is the one I decided was not good enough for my Northwest workshop ladies- so I kicked it to the kerb in favour of better designs!

The stamps used are

Corset Montage

Feminine

A Thing of Beauty...

Also used

Papermania 8x8 paper

Expresso Adirondack ink

Clear Powder/Versamark

Donna Salazar Spellbinders

Grand Spellbinders

EK Punch

Vintage Ribbon (dyed with inkpad)

Come back tomorrow to help judge this months Claritystampers Northwest homework....

Sending you a warm smile!

2012-02-07T07:14:00.001Z

Good Morning, hope everybody is ok, safe and warm, I know some places in the UK are suffering a bit!

Well get your Spellbinders out and cheer yourselves up...

This one of the samples I made for last weeks Creative Expressions shows on Create & Craft.

Its an 8x8 using the new Moroccan dies, Picoh Circle, Anemones, Fluer de Lis Rectangle, Fancy Tags, Foliage (surprise surprise)

I embossed Sentiments with Cosmic Shimmer Metallics/Darks powders-they are so lush!

I inked edges with Stormy Skies Distress ink.

The paper is an old Papermania pad.

White background was embossed with A4 Mica Mask.

Also used, Decorative pins, Crinkle edge ribbon, Organza roses, Cosmic Shimmer Pearly dots, White Inksentials pen.

Go on then, go look for a Creative Expressions retailer-you know you want to!

See you soon.

Grungy edges are JustRite

2012-02-06T18:48:00.000Z

As promised earlier, Im back with a card.

This one of my samples for the JustRite shows I did for Creative Expressions.

Spellbinders labels 20. I grunged/metalised the edges of the designer paper by using Perfect Medium re-inker and Cosmic Shimmer Ultra Thick Arctic Black powder. I also used Adagio embossing folder, Smoke Glass glintz, Vintage Ribbon, Zipper Rose.

All goodies including the Tan cardstock are available from

Creative Expressions

See you tomorrow for a Spellbinder card.

Mask winner.

2012-02-06T13:44:00.000Z

Afternoon!

We have a winner for the A4 Mica Mask

.....

....

Maggie!

Well done, give me a shout with your Address Maggie.

See you later today with a card- I have a backlog!

White & Spellbinding!

2012-02-03T13:44:00.000Z

I actually remembered to get pics of this, with my new camera of course!

Its the White card I demo'd this morning. I thought I would get the pics up for you now while im sat in the garden centre round the corner from the studio, stuffing a baked spud down me!

When I get chance I will add some measurements for you!

Right, Baked spud is finished so Im heading back before they realise I escaped lol. Hope you will join me at 4pm- will ask again about showing you how to get the trickier Moroccan Accent out of the die- you should be fine once you see where to press.

Welcome to my new followers-Im glad to have you, put your names down for this weeks giveaway a couple of posts below.

Over & out!

oops, giveaway is late this week!

2012-02-02T07:48:00.000Z

Good morning!

Quick post again today because I have to pack the car for an all-day Clarity workshop.

I then have to unpack the car and re-pack the car to drive down to Peterborough tonight ready for tomorrow's Creative Expressions shows on C&C.

So, a little later than hoped, this weeks giveaway is a

Special Touch of Mica A4 mask.

I love the A4's for embossing my 8x8 backgrounds!

As usual, just leave a comment to be in with a chance of winning.

Re-draw for the Clarity stamp!

2012-01-31T23:43:00.000Z

Yep, the winner didnt come forward so I have to pick another!

Drumroll.

.........

......

New winner is....

Jacqui B

Get in touch Jacqui!

I will let you know about this weeks giveaway in the morning (Wednesday).

I still have goodies to post out, I havent forgotten you I promise.

A Heartfelt Cardinal

2012-01-31T07:21:00.001Z

Happy Tuesday! - well its one day closer to the weekend than Monday...

More prep for me today, I have 2 all-day Clarity workshops this week and a couple of Creative Expressions shows on Create & Craft on Friday. Things are not as crazy this week so Im a bit more on the ball!

Im trying to mix up what I show you at the moment, there are tons of cards yet to be seen.

This one is using the Cardinal Family stamp set & Cutting dies from Heartfelt Creations-part of the Spellbinder possie no less!

The mottled background was created using distress ink and Cosmic Shimmer paints-not just for painting you know..

I also used the Ornate Window die also from HC. I turned the autumn leaves around back to front for a different embossing look.

Roses are made from Vintage ribbon and then edged with Cosmic Shimmer paint.

The Cardinal is embossed with Black Cosmic Shimmer powder & coloured with Bleach, in a ventilated room.

Some tuille, pins, twine, a dotty mask & plenty of pearly dots!

Hope you like him!

Its JustRite in Paris!

2012-01-30T10:44:00.000Z

Hello folks!

Todays card is an 8x8 using the Greetings from Paris & Shabby Chic labels Justrite Stamp sets & Spellbinders Labels 4. I had to sneak in the Moroccan Spellbinder set too...
All goodies are available through Creative Expressions.

The 'metal' Postage Stamp was made by stamping into melted Cosmic Shimmer Ultra Thick Embossing Powder in Arctic Black.

I added just a little colour to the images with Tea Dye stain and a paintbrush.

I also used some Black Vintage ribbon, Screw top brads, and a Zipper rose.

The Tan cardstock is Creative Expressions Foundation card-Im liking that a lot!

Have a good one!

Giveaway winner.

2012-01-29T19:24:00.001Z

Its that time of the week again...

when I tease you..

with a long drumroll...

to see if you have won the giveaway....

The winner of this weeks giveaway is

Papercraft by Carole

Well done!

Email me your snail mail.

I will announce next weeks giveaway on or around Tuesday.

More Pink Clarity girlyness!

2012-01-29T07:45:00.001Z

Good Morning gang, its Sunday so you have my permission to take it easy today!

As promised yesterday, here is another of the Pink Girly Clarity cards I made for the Beginners guide to Resist technique.

I had to be very restrained about embellishing this batch of cards!

I used the Corset Montage stamp and the Feminine sentiment, we are using these stamps in next weeks Clarity workshops but different colours/designs.

I love doing resist pieces with graduated colour so its really pale in the centre.

If you would like full instructions for this and the other cards you need to get your hands on Creative Cardmaking issue 37.

Last chance today to put your name on the Clarity Leafy Swirl stamp before I pick a winner tonight, scroll down a couple of posts to find it.

Have a good one!

Playing with the new toy & a camera shy bunny wabbit!

2012-01-28T07:59:00.005Z

I thought I would share the first practise pics with the new camera, I still need to play and get it just right but there is a definite improvement already!

This is an 8x8 card using the Morrocan Spellbinders- have I mentioned that I love these??

I inked Faded Jeans Distress ink through the Fretwork mask, dark in the corner and lighter toward the centre.

Do you recognise the Foliage, of course you do- I banged on about it enough on telly, I love love love the Foliage, oops said it again!

The sentiment is from the Thoughtful Sentiments set, it actually says "you make life a beautiful thing" so I masked the rest of it so only inked the beautiful thing.

Teal & Black Vintage ribbon, Spiral blossom and some black Pearly dots to finish. oh and i put some Cosmic Shimmer Iced Crystal in the centre of the blossom for a little twinkle.

All goodies available through Creative Expressions.

I was trying to get a nice pic of Milly posh paws to practice (the kids are out) but she is a bit camera shy unless she has just had her mane brushed.

Incase you dont recognise the breed, she is a Dwarf Lion Head bunny- but dont tell her that, she thinks she is a cat!

See you tomorrow for a Clarity card.

Could this be the last bad picture from me!!!!

2012-01-27T10:28:00.000Z

Maybe, maybe not!

The super cool new camera arrived, so all I need now is an SD card and to work out

A, where the SD card goes

B, how to switch it on

C, how to take photos

D, how to load them onto my laptop

and if you think thats easy, please remember its ME we are talking about, Queen of technology never to be!!

Today though I have another impressive example of how not to photograph a card.

This is one of the cards I made for the JustRite shows I did yesterday

Its an 8x8 card, the background is done using an A4 Mica Mask at the bottom and some lilac patterned paper at the top.

Centre piece is using the same mask to emboss a Lilac Grand blossom circle cut to size and edged with a Grand edgy die (my fave biggy). Next layer is a Label 20 embossed with Basket Weave mask, couple of screw top brads in Silver. Then top layer is one of the Ribbon tags stamped with the Forever Friends JustRite set. Some lovely Violet Vintage ribbon, a zipper rose, a couple of accents and some pearly dots to finish.

All goodies are available from Creative Expressions of course.

Why not come back tomorrow and see if that new camera is in action yet....

A Clarity Giveaway

2012-01-25T10:57:00.000Z

Good Morning!

Its manic in Casa Maria again today, I am just finishing demo's for Tomorrows Create & Craft shows at 11am & 4pm (something nice to show you thanks to Creative Expressions), then got to pack the car, see to Milly & the garden bunnies, clean up the aftermath of Amber's Fudge making session last night, Check the oil & water and fuel up, drop Amber to her Dad, and drive down to Peterborough....

So, very quickly here is this weeks giveaway..

Its a lovely Leafy Swirl stamp from Claritystamp

As always no silly rules, just leave a comment on this post and I will pick a winner at the weekend.

If you dont have a google account/profile, it only takes a minute to set one up, then you can comment on any blog.

A Girly Clarity card

2012-01-24T08:15:00.046Z

Good morning!

ooh dont I sound chirpy, Im not really, when this goes live I will be running around the house with one leg in my pants, a slice of toast hanging out of my mouth while screeching at Amber to get a move on and feeding the fish with my spare hand as I stagger past-not to mention breakfast for Milly posh paws and the garden bunnies and the regular morning ritual of the 'elusive hair bobbles'....

Anyway, today might be a good day, Im hoping Postman Pat will bring my new super fantastic Camera from Amazon-yeah, decent photos & tutorials are imminent!!

Right I have waffled on for long enough, time for a card!

This is one I did for Creative Cardmaking, Beginners guide to 'Resist'

I used the Corset Montage stamp from Claritystamp and Pink Sherbert & Pitch Black Adirondack ink, Versamark, clear embossing powder.

I decoupaged the Corset.

I like to graduate the colour when doing a resist, it adds more drama I think.

I did have to keep this quite simple for a beginner but I like it just the same.

If you would like to see the instructions for this & the other projects, issue 37 of Creative Cardmaking is still available.

Have a good one.

See you tomorrow for this weeks giveaway!

Blog not been deleted, just acting silly i hope!

2012-01-23T23:36:00.000Z

Just a very quick post, There seems to be an issue with blogger at the moment, lots of you contacted me to say my blog had been deleted, this is very strange because I have not deleted it-im posting on it now! But when i first checked it there was no apparent problem but then 5 mins later i was getting the same message as everybody else, another 5 mins later and im logged in and writing this, I am hoping this is a temporary glitch but if there is a more permanent problem i will have to start a new blog and let everybody know on Facebook and Twitter.... really hope its not neccesary as i dont have the time to mess about!!!!

Moroccan paper folding & an investigation!

2012-01-23T14:44:00.000Z

Hello all, and welcome to my new followers!

I arrived home safely last night to lots of hugs from Amber, as predicted, & chocolates!

Teenage indifference from Steve, as predicted.

And a full and indepth investigation from Milly posh paws! She has not stopped sniffing me and rubbing herself all over me to re-scent her 'property', she clearly doesnt like being away from mummy for such a long time, and she has watched my every move so far today.

Thank you to all the people who watched the shows, ordered, emailed and generally helped make it a great Blockbuster, I hope the guys at Creative Expressions are pleased with the job I did and hopefully let me do another 'big gig' at some piont!

In the meantime, I am back on screen on Thursday with a couple of shows with the excellent JustRite range.

Time for a card, this one of my faves from the Blockbuster shows.

This is using the stunning Moroccan Motif Spellbinders, Large labels, Foliage, Spiral Blossom. I cut 8 of the smaller 5 sided motif and scored on my Hougie 1cm apart then glued them at one end with Cosmic Shimmer dries clear, then glued them all together behind the stamped label. The Stamps are from the Rambling Rose & Thoughtful Sentiments set.

I do have a couple of close ups but computer isnt playing nice at the moment and Milly keeps walking over the keypad trying to get my attention, so I will add them later with a little more detail.

Over & out!

Rambling Rose winner!

2012-01-22T11:55:00.000Z

Im in the garden centre again in between shows and I thought I better sort out a winner, otherwise it wont happen until tomorrow because Im off home straight after the 2pm show (after I clean up of course)

Cant wait to see my babies-all 6 of them,

Milly posh paws will either be sulking and ignore me or she will do cartwheels around my feet with excitement!

Amber will hug me like crazy,

and Stevie wont have noticed me gone-unless the power to his xbox has been interupted!

So, winner, actually I thought id have 2- coz I can!

The Creative Expressions Rambling Rose stamp set goes to

Carol

Not sure what prize im giving to.........

Bernie

Will find you something Bernie.

I need addresses please ladies, can you message me please.

If you didnt win then there will be another giveaway in a couple of days.

Gotta go!

Show times for Creative Expressions next week.

2012-01-22T11:29:00.001Z

Please Scroll down for regular blog posts!

My Creative Expressions shows for next weeks Blockbuster are as follows

(subject to change)

Hope you can join me!

Tuesday 17 Jan

10pm Ideal World

Midnight Ideal World

Wednesday 18 Jan

11am Ideal World
1pm

4pm Create & Craft

6pm Ideal World

8pm Ideal World

Thursday 19 Jan

9am Ideal World

1pm
4pm

8pm Ideal World

Saturday 21 Jan

12 noon Create & Craft

6pm Create & Craft

Sunday 22 Jan

9am Create & Craft

2pm Create & Craft

I will try to update any changes as quickly as possible.

Dusky Pink/Brown Moroccan

2012-01-21T14:20:00.000Z

I thought I would blog while sat in the Garden Centre, Im back in the studio in an hour to prep for the 6pm show but I thought a bit of fresh air would be nice!

This is another of my Moroccan samples

I wanted to show how I gave the corners some height but its the usual excuse-Maria's legendary 'camera phone' photography!!!

I have good news though...

My Sister showed me her new camera yesterday, it was awesome!!!! so I ordered the same one and it will transform my photography, no really it will, I cant wait for it to arrive so I can do proper close ups and actually be able to do decent tutorials!!!!!! Im getting excited again now, calm down woman!

Anyway, todays card shows how you can change the shape of the Moroccan pieces simply by playing with them a little! You will be seeing more of this for sure-especially when my new camera arrives.

While im at it, last chance to put your name down for a chance to win the Creative Expressions Rambling Rose Stamp plate, just scroll down for details.

Hope you can join me at 6pm on Create & Craft.

A little bit Spellbound!

2012-01-20T10:19:00.000Z

Good Morning gang, and welcome to my new followers!

Im having a day off today, Im sat in bed in my hotel with my coffee!

Im still getting over the excitement of talking last night to Stacey Caron of Spellbinders, what a nice lady! I really wanted to thank her for her amazing ideas- I bet she has enriched your crafty life as much as mine hasnt she?

Anyways,I planned to start photographing my show samples for the blog but in my rush to get packed up last night I forgot to bring them with me, so they are still in the studio! Luckily though I did get 2 pics earlier in the day so that will be ok for today and tomorrow.

I love Black & White, to make this card I used a mica mask, Foliage dies,Moroccan dies, Labels, Fanciful Flight all Spellbinders of course,Organza roses, crinkle edge Organza ribbon, bakers twine, Cosmic Shimmer pearly glue.

The plan for today is to go and stay with my little sis for the night- really looking forward to surprising the girls. Then drive back to Peterborough early in the morning ready for my 12 noon show!

Dont forget to put your name down for the beautiful Rambling Roses stamp plate giveaway- its a couple of posts down.

This weeks giveaway

2012-01-18T08:20:00.000Z

Good morning!

This is gonna be yet another quick post because Im getting ready to head back to the studio for more Grand Calibur Blockbuster shows- have you seen those stunning new dies yet?? If not, check the schedules on Ideal World and Create & Craft for show times.

Anyways, this weeks giveaway has been kindly donated by

Creative Expressions

And the giveaway is this lovely A5 stamp sheet called Rambling Rose.

As usual there are no silly rules to be in with a chance of winning, just leave me a comment and I will pick a random winner at the end of the week.

Good luck!

Re-draw for unclaimed giveaway.

2012-01-16T20:58:00.000Z

Ok I said I would re-draw for the Distress Stains if they were not claimed by 8pm tonight, so new winner is Karmakrafts. Please get in touch to claim your goodies!

Back to my prep for the Blockbuster, getting nervous now!

Next months Clarity NW class dates!

2012-01-16T14:35:00.001Z

Just a quick post again as Im crazy busy preparing for the Grand Calibur Blockbuster!

The dates for February Clarity NW classes are

Thursday 2nd Feb

Sunday 5th Feb

Birkenhead, Wirral (near Liverpool)

They are both filling up very fast!

Give me a shout if you would like a place.

Unclaimed Giveaway, is it yours???

2012-01-15T17:30:00.001Z

Just quickly to let you know this weeks giveaway (4 Distress Stains) has not been claimed by the winner yet!!!

Here is the blog post with the winner and how to claim.

If it isnt claimed by Monday 8pm I will re-draw.

Also keep watching for details of next weeks giveaway donated by Creative Expressions.

Giveaway winner.

2012-01-13T10:02:00.000Z

Good morning, I nearly forgot to sort out a winner for this weeks giveaway- I think I might have been having a few blonde & senior moments all wrapped up together!

Anyway, you want to know if you won dont you...

drumroll

number 59

which is

Shelley

Well done to you!

Email me your address Shelley

simms (dot) maria (@) hotmail (dot) co (dot) uk

I write it like that so the spambots cant find it easily, but you know what to do with it right?

Next weeks giveaway is generously donated by Creative Expressions, watch out for it.

Speaking of Creative Expressions, Tomorrow I will blog my show times for next weeks Blockbuster- dont miss it gang!

Got to dash, samples to make/demo's to prep!

Time is Key

2012-01-12T07:49:00.015Z

This is the last card from the Resist cards I did for Creative Stamping issue 2. I have the same excuse for the extra bad pic, I was in the car trying to make the last post so not to miss the deadline and had to just grab what pics i could.

I love the Die cut sprocket over the watch face on the tag, it looks a bit like there is a tiny watch embedded!

As with the other cards in this batch, all stamps used are from Claritystamp and cutting dies are Spellbinders.

A quickie again today, sorry!

Im hopefully eating homemade cake while you read this, unless Rae burnt it-let you know later!

WOYWW

2012-01-11T07:58:00.003Z

Well its been absolutely ages since I had the time to join in over at Stamping Ground, sorry Julia....

and to be honest I dont actually have time this week either, its all gone a bit mental here-2 full Clarity workshops between now and Sunday, Creative Expressions shows next week, etc etc (not complaining honest!)

Anyway, I thought I would make the time-who needs sleep anyway!

So whats on my desk, well which one? it all spread from the Craft room to the Dining room this week, inky upstairs/papercrafty downstairs.

The inky control centre....

Yes I know its a sh*t tip, but its my sh*t tip and I love it!

There are some Clarity stamps waiting to go for a wash, 2 brayers coz im greedy, couple of coloured Magnolia's, some lovely Heartfelt Creation goodies.

And just to show its not all messy...

This is just above my desk.

Check out the 2 snails on the left, Amber made them for me from clay stuff.

Ok, your turn, lets see whats on your workdesk, jump over to Stamping Ground and link up so we can all come and snoop at what ya got!

Another giveaway!

2012-01-10T07:55:00.052Z

I thought it might be nice to start having more regular candy, and this week I have a yummy inky giveaway for you!

How would you like the chance to win 4 Distress Stains donated by Tracey from Oyster Stamps!

I have found some cool goodies at Oyster that I have'nt found anywhere else and its free P&P!

Im particularly loving the paper selection, Bo Bunny/K & Company/DCWV, I especially want to get my hands on some of the Simple Stories papers for sure.

So, how can you win?

Just leave me a comment on this post or mention it in the chat box over on the right and I will pick a random winner at the weekend, you dont need to sign up to anything or be a follower -love you to though if you wanted to!

Good luck!

See you soon.

Newsprint Resist

2012-01-09T08:40:00.014Z

Good Morning, todays card is another of the magazine cards using Resist technique.

All stamps used are Claritystamps, also used are Donna Salazar Spellbinders, and some Velum from Hunkydory.

Just a quick post again today!

A bit of shimmer and Clarity.

2012-01-08T13:54:00.000Z

Happy Sunday folks!

Todays card is one of my Clarity samples for todays Clarity shows.
I had great difficulty getting pictures again, it was dark outside and my lightbulbs are mainly those dim energy savers, very frustrating because the whole batch look off-colour, glary or shadowy!

This uses the Mardigras Masks.

I silver embossed onto velum and coloured with Cosmic Shimmer paints.

The background is sprayed with Cosmic Shimmer and then stamped in Archival Black, I also coloured the roses with the spray.

I really tried to catch all the swirly detail in the picture but it was an epic fail!

Ok im off, tons to do!

Its Time

2012-01-07T08:27:00.001Z

Hello gang, hope all is well with you.

Im scheduling a handful of posts so I can concentrate on some work, I have a fair bit to keep me busy for the next couple of weeks including some tv shows on Create & Craft.

This card is another of the designs I did for Creative Stamping issue 2.

The photography for this batch of cards is poor-even by my standards! I was rushing to get pics on my phone in the car outside the Post Office before I posted these last minute.

Claritystamps used are Fob Watchs in 3 sizes, Magnifying Glass, Scrabble Set.

Thats all for today, see you soon.

We have a winner!

2012-01-06T22:53:00.000Z

I know its a little late, but its still Friday!

I said we have a winner, I counted up the comments including those in the chat box and I randomly picked number 26,

so the winner is

Drumroll (just a short one)

Andrea

Well done, email me with your address.

simms(dot)maria(at)hotmail(dot)co(dot)uk

Apparently if you write your email this way the spambots cant find it easily, so if your a spammer, bog off and get a life! lol

For those of you who didnt win, I have a great giveaway for next week, watch out for it!

See you tomorrow for a card.

Posy patch flowers in Faded Jeans.

2012-01-04T14:10:00.000Z

Good afternoon, this should have gone live this morning but I was too busy with storm damage to press the button, Im sending a hug to all my friends in Scotland because I know they are having a horrific time with the stormy weather, I hope everybody stays safe.

This is an 8x8 card using Heartfelt Creations Stamps & Cutting Dies, Creative Expressions embossing folder and some Spellbinders, A4 Mica Mask & Centura Pearl card.

I also used some embellies from Creative Expressions, Faded Jeans Distress ink to colour the ribbon and the stamped flowers.

I adore the Heartfelt Creations goodies, I am still using them a lot! Another real fave is the A4 Mica Mask from Stamps Away, I love being able to emboss larger pieces of card as well as small pieces.

Thats it for today, dont forget I have a giveaway in my previous post-no fussy rules involved so go have a look.

See you soon!

A little Giveaway!

2012-01-03T12:52:00.000Z

Just a quick post today folks to let you know I have a stamp to giveaway.

If you would like this, all you need to do is leave me a comment and I will randomly pick a winner on Friday.

See you tomorrow for a card!

What do you wish for?

2012-01-01T10:00:00.069Z

Happy 2012!

I would like to wish everybody whatever you wish for yourselves for the coming year,whatever that may be!

So, what do I wish for this year...

Another year of good health and personal development for Stevie & Amber.

Amber to pass the 11+ late in the year so she can go to the School of her choice next year.

Improved health for my Mum and Sister.

My health to continue to remain stable so I can keep working the job that I absolutely adore.

Would it be pushing things if I also wished for this to be the year to meet a nice man to share life with??

He needs to be kind, loving, loyal, patient, and NOT touch my craft stuff!!! lol

So what do you wish for this year???

leave me a comment and spill the beans.

My 2011 Highlights

2011-12-31T14:38:00.001Z

So this is it then, my final blog post of 2011.

I thought I would share some highlights with you-there have been a few!!

January

I was still struggling to come to terms with losing my career the previous year due to my health. Crafting saved my sanity without a doubt and it was nice to be on several design teams including Sassy Studio Designs, Little Claire, Hunkydory, Delicious Doodles, The Crafty Pad.

February

Barbara asked me to join the Claritystamp Design team, I thought I was dreaming!

March

I started working for Hunkydory part time,can you imagine working for your favourite papercraft company!

I also did my first workshop, talk about baptism of fire- brayering and all things inky, I had never even attended a workshop before this, but it went really well!

April

I did my first Create & Craft show, I was terrified but everybody at Create & Craft looked after me so well.

May

I entered my first card competition at Happy Stampers North West, and won!

June/July/August

Amber did the Race for Life, along with my friend/neighbour/bunny-sitter Julie and the girls.

Stevie and I went to see Judas Priest and Iron Maiden.

Apart from having to opt for seats coz of my dodgy bones, I felt 18 again!

I was in Creative Cardmaking for the first time

September

Steve made me proud when he started Grammar School, can you guess where he gets his brains from? let me know if you find out.lol

October

Steve & Amber both made winning cards for Happy Stampers 100 years of photography theme.

Amber's

Steve's

November

I made the leap and went self employed, very scary but exciting!

December

Lots happened in December, but the very best bit was when I realised that for the past few years I have been happy to see the back of another miserable year-but this year I am smiling as I look back on this year, and absolutely beaming as I look toward 2012!!!

I would like to thank the many people who helped me achieve a huge amount this year, my family, Barbara Gray, the guys at Hunkydory and Creative Expressions for the opportunities they have given me, and of course all my FB friends & blog followers,thank you for your friendship, support & encouragement.

Signing off and sending you all my last hug of 2011

xxx

That Clarity Owl is a Hoot!

2011-12-30T12:54:00.000Z

Hey gang!

I wasnt gonna post anything today but its gone oh so quiet here, Stevie has taken Amber over to Cappucino's in the park for an all day brekky-could this be a hint about my cooking I wonder???

So while the cats are away the mouse will play, here is one of the cards I made for Creative Stamping magazine a couple of months ago. Issue 3 is out soon, watch out for it!

Stamps used are the Owl and my treasured Scrabble set both from Claritystamp.

The cogs are a mixture of Tim Holtz and Donna Salazar Spellbinders.

I wanted the Owls to stand out from the distressing so I decided not to add any colour, I just added a drop of Glossy Accents to each eye-looks good in the flesh.

If you would like the instructions for this and the other accompanying cards you may still be able to get your hands on issue 2 of Creative Stamping.

While on the subject of Claritystamp, the 12 January Northwest Clarity workshop is fully booked, the repeat class on the Sunday (15th) has 5 places remaining- how delighted would I be if that sold out too!!!

Give me a shout if your interested.

Thats it for today, see you soon.

Find time to colour!

2011-12-29T10:37:00.000Z

Morning all, I actually made time to sit and colour for half an hour! I was starting to get withdrawal symptoms through lack of fumes from the alcohol markers.

Seriously, its a rare treat to sit and colour just for fun, and I definitely dont practise enough with my pens.

This is one of the new Magnolia's, I fell in love with this one as soon as I saw it on the Glitter Pot website.

I will add the Copic colours later today- they are upstairs and I am downstairs, im supposed to be getting ready to go see my Sister!

The paper is actually Christmas paper from Bo Bunny, dont tell anyone will you.

The flowers are from Wild Orchid.

Sentiment is from Claritystamp.

Edge punch is a EK Success.

Ribbon is from Papermania, I had to age it a bit with distress ink-it was too white.

Lace from my stash.

Will add colours here later.

Im gone!

Some Kraft card and no tinsel!

2011-12-28T12:55:00.000Z

Hey Gang is it safe to come out yet, have you put that green tinsel away??

Yep Christmas is great but isnt it nice to get back to normal afterwards.

Personally I dont enjoy fighting for a parking space because half of Birkenhead is shopping for Baubles at 10p a box! Indeedy, I have more important things on the agenda, like hunting for Windowlene old fashioned window cleaner in the pink bottle (why cant I find it anywhere?) and I needed more paint samples coz the one I chose is too dark, the bunnies needed hay, Milly bunny needed cat litter!

Anyway, enough bah humbug, here is a card!

This is a 6x6 using some Kraft card that I have been meaning to use for a while.

The colours dont show up too well here (surprise!) I used Deep Red, Black, Olive.

I passed a Spellbinders Label 21 through a Fauna Embossing Folder from Creative Expressions. The Ornate frame sides is a Heartfelt Creations Oval Window diecut cut in half, I added some faux stitches too.

The little wreath is made using the smallest stamp in the Posy Patch rubber stamps from Heartfelt Creations, I coloured with Distress inks and added little green beads to the middles and attached to a die cut scallop circle.

I cut the little banners by hand, made the organza roses, added some Cosmic Shimmer pearly dots and a couple of decorative pins to finish.

Ok Im off to see if my paint swatch is dry on the wall yet, see you soon!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T20:32:00.000Z

Just a mega quick post to wish everybody a very Merry Christmas, I hope you are all surrounded by loved ones and laughter, but if for any reason your not then Im sending you love and a huge hug!!!

See you soon

xxx

Mono Bauble.

2011-12-24T08:10:00.000Z

Happy Christmas Eve folks.

I actually started wrapping presents yesterday, so at this rate I will be all ready for Christmas by New Years Day!

Even my cards were last minute, like this one..

This is using one of the stamps in the Scenic set from Heartfelt Creations, stamped while bauble was still in the die, and then added plenty of crystal glitter for a snowy feel.

Background was embossed using an A4 Special Touch of Mica Mask.

Text stamp is from Claritystamp, Ribbon and charm is from my stash.

Hope you like it!

See you soon.

Ivory & Black Triangular box.

2011-12-23T08:00:00.001Z

Good morning! Today I thought I would show you the box I made for the Creative Expressions shows I did on Create & Craft last weekend.

I love Ivory & Black especially with the Centura Pearl card.

I used a variety of Heartfelt Creations including the Posy Patch dies, Scenic Oval Window die, Autumn Leaves dies, and Iris Framer rubber stamp.

I made the box on my Hougie Board.

This stamps and embosses so nicely, colours pretty well too!

Just a quick post today, is it really only 2 days until Christmas- someone stop the clock!

A bit of Claritystamp workshop news!

2011-12-22T14:47:00.000Z

Firstly, apologies, this post was supposed to be yesterday, but I have had no internet since Tuesday night-very annoying!

But Mr Posty has just delivered a new connector so here I am.

Those of you who have received your Claritystamp Club newsletter (and had time to read it) will know about the launch of the Northwest Claritystamp workshops in January, Our first meeting on Thursday 12 January is already fully booked, BUT, there still seems to be plenty of interest, so assuming there are enough takers I will repeat the class on the Sunday (15 January) so please let me know as soon as possible if you would like a place so I can make the necessary arrangements.

For those of you, including non members, who dont yet know about the workshops, here is the deal

Monthly Claritystamp workshops in the Northwest at a fantastic price.

Claritystamp Club members will receive 10% discount on any goods bought on the day.

Claritystamp Club members will always be offered workshop places before non club members.

Special events throughout the year including a visit from Barbara herself!

Please get in touch if you would like any further information.

Ok I promised you a card too didnt I, will a tag be ok?

This is using the Ivy corner and my fave leafy stamp.

See you tomorrow!

Lilac & Teal Iris

2011-12-20T13:19:00.000Z

Its after lunch again I know,sorry, I get a little lazy when I work from home!

Anyway, here is todays offering.

To make this card I used the Heartfelt Creations Oval Window cutting die & the Oval Iris stamp.

A4 Special Touch of Mica Mask.

Fauna Embossing folder, Bakers Twine, Vintage Ribbon, Wooden Button, sentiment from the Autumn Swirl stamp set, Pearly glue, all from Creative Expressions.

Distress ink pads to watercolour, watercolour paper, Martha Stewart Around the page punch set.

When watercolouring, put down a water glaze first so the ink/paint move nicely on your work, you can add more definition when work is dry.

Got to go wrap some Christmas present now, see you tomorrow for a Claritystamp card and some exciting Clarity news...

Heartfelt Creations card & instructions.

2011-12-19T15:28:00.000Z

Afternoon gang! I was going to be like a little whirlwind today and get tons done....erm, well me and the kids had a late brekky in bed and the pace has been a tinsy bit little slow so far.

But, I must show you another card from my Create & Craft shows at the weekend, and I thought I would give you a few measurements for it too.

Ok, start with a 21cm square card blank covered in Black.

Cut 2 white panels 8cm x 16cm, emboss using Fauna embossing folder from Creative Expressions, matt onto silver mirri to leave a small border, attach to the card blank.

Die cut a Grand label 4 from Black card, or similar shape, attach to the card.

Die cut a Heartfelt Creations Window Scene and attach to the card.

Stamp and emboss the Oval Iris Frame stamp 4 times to create decoupaged topper, attach to the die-cut window.

Finish with some die-cut Posy Patch flowers, vintage ribbon bow, decorative pins and some pearly glue dots.

oh and stamp/emboss the sentiment onto one of the flowers.

I bent the decoupage to give a lovely curvy shape, the centura Pearl card is great for this.

The ribbon was coloured with Aged Mahogany Distress ink and a little Red Lava Cosmic Shimmer watercolour paint.

Thats all for today except to say 'Welcome' to my new followers, im glad to have you!

See you tomorrow for more ideas, I also still have some Clarity cards to show you this week.

Another sneak peek for Saturday

2011-12-15T12:21:00.000Z

Two days to go until my Creative Expressions shows on Create & Craft and Im starting to get nervous & excited in equal measures!

So its time to write my list of what not to forget-could be a long list..

As the title suggests, here is another sneak peek card

This is using some awesome Cardinal stamps and co-ordinating cutting dies from Heartfelt Creations, also some autumn leaf dies & stamps, and a stunning Window Frame cutting die which I used as a stencil to ink over for this card.

The most time consuming part of this card was checking the book pages I used to make sure there were no swear words or saucy bits- not that I would ever read such books lol!

I stamped the ribbon with Archival ink. Lots of Aged Mahogany used on this card, including colouring the wooden button.

Hope you can join me on Saturday 12pm & 4pm

Ok im off to write that list, have a good one!

Sneak Peek, a catch-up, and I finally met Romeo!

2011-12-13T11:58:00.000Z

So much to tell you, where do I start!

Ok, the weekend. On Thursday I went down to Kent to spend a couple of days with Barbara for some relaxing Watercolouring etc. What a great time! Homemade soup by the hand of Barbara herself on Thursday night, woke up with a cuppa- thats me happy before we even get the paint brushes out!

The lady who was teaching us was Billy Showell, she is amazing! It was a lovely experience because Billy looked after us so well, there was no "kettle is over there, help yourself" Billy served us our cuppa's and she had even baked seriously yummy cake especially for us!!!!! There was even lovely relaxing music in the background.

Friday night we all went for an Italian meal, Barbara, Dave, Grace, Annette, Terry, Elaine, Hazel and Me, there may have been an occasional dirty joke or two-lots of laughter is good for the soul!

Now, I did mention I met Romeo didnt I. Im totally in love, he is Dark, handsome and very affectionate......

Romeo is Barbara's Black Cat!

Whats next, tv stuff. I have been itching to be more specific about the Create & Craft shows, they were originally scheduled for last week but were jiggled about, so as it stands (subject to change) I will be on this Saturday at 12pm and 4pm with some fantastic Creative Expressions goodies! I have lots of cool demo's planned and plenty of samples....so here is the first sneak peek.

This is an 8x8 shaker card-you know I love em!

I used lots of Heartfelt Creations goodies for this one, including the stunning Oval Frame die, Scenery stamp, Leaf dies, Mica Mask, Pearly glue, Vintage Ribbon....

I didnt want to go too crazy on the embellies on this because I wanted your eyes to be drawn to the image through the window.

The image is so easy to work with because a lot of shading has already been included. I stamped and dragged some ink to colour the image.

I used the Frame on a ton of samples in different ways, cant wait to show you!

Another type of ribbon roses, this ribbon colours really well too. I inked one of the leaves and embossed the other for a little twist.

Hope you like it!

Before I forget, I promised Candy when I reached 350 followers- its coming, I need to set it up on bloggy and photograph the goodies!

See you soon

A pre-catchup!

2011-12-11T13:19:00.000Z

Hello Ladies & Jellybeans!

Just a quick catch-up to tell you I will catch-up later today, will tell you all about my fantastic weekend, blog candy, and its high time for a sneak peek, could be a long post me thinks!

See you later x

Mono Skaters

2011-12-07T07:57:00.023Z

Happy Wednesday!

Hope your all doing ok, all is well at Chez Simms, my sister was allowed home from hospital yesterday so fingers crossed she will be ok again for a while at least.

Todays card is another Clarity, easy as cake this one- just heat emboss and mount it up!

See you soon, over and out! lol

Resisting Violet

2011-12-06T12:07:00.000Z

Hello rabble!

Do you remember yesterday when I said I was gonna be a bit more organised this week? Scrap it, its not gonna happen!

I spent this morning chillaxing and not even tidied the brekky dishes, it takes a while to get into a regular routine when you do most of your work from home, I found myself working until about 2am the last couple of nights-just coz I lost track of time. So everything gets done, but not in any particular order.

Anyways, enough wittering...

Today's card is another Clarity from the weekend.

I used the sentiment stamp to make a resist background, I like to graduate the colour on the ressist panel to add a little drama. The corner stamp is used on the long strip. The Snowdrop circle is shaded a little with a Promarker and a white gel pen.

Thats all folks!

Gotta go look for my Suitcase, write a 'dont forget' list, and do the brekky dishes!

Home Sweet Home

2011-12-05T07:50:00.024Z

Good morning! Another big fresh week, im gonna be more organised this week....maybe!

Todays card is using the Home set from yesterdays Claritystamp shows on Create & Craft.

I used my Wishing Well stamp for the wall in the O, brayered lightly with Pitch Black Adirondack for the sky, and shaded bricks with Promarker.

The lettering at the bottom is using my Scrabble set from Clarity, I added little dots with white gel pen for added interest to letters. Finished off with some red gems from MeiFlower.

Right, work beckons! Got a magazine piece to finish and start prep for my workshops next week....

3 more followers and it will be Candy time!

The Great Outdoors over at PanPastel, and a SALE!

2011-12-04T12:07:00.000Z

Hiya gang, today sees the start of a new challenge over at the PanPastel Challenge blog, the theme is The Great Outdoors-plenty of scope there!

The prize is a starter set of PanPastel with tools, what a great way to try them out for yourself.

Also there is some special offers on PanPastels at Your Creativity Store, and if thats not enough, there is also FREE P & P!

Anyway, here is my card for the challenge

I have used some of my Claritystamps, including the mega-useful Silhuette Trees from todays Create & Craft shows.

I used PanPastels on a couple of my other tv cards too, they are so easy to use, I think im nearly ready to review them properly, so watch this space...

Have a great Sunday, dont forget to join Barbara and Martyn for more Clarity shows this afternoon.

A Clarity Classroom card

2011-12-03T13:14:00.000Z

Hello gang, for some reason I had it in my head that I couldnt show you the Classroom stuff until tomorrow, must have had a senior blonde moment!

When I did the artwork for this I was satisfied with it but didnt want to mount it just plain on a white A5 card, as I usually do, I wanted to do something a little different with it, but now I dont like it and should have gone with the plain A5.

Have a good one!

Not much to show, but a little helper?

2011-12-02T23:11:00.000Z

Well I thought I needed to nip in and just have a quick catch up, not been making a huge amount because I feel a bit distracted-my sister is still in hospital and cant come home for at least another week if she improves.

I have been having another sort out in the craft room, just got everything spread out on the bed and Milly bunny decided she wanted to help mummy, so she shoved a few bits/dragged the bedding half off and lay down and stretch out right in the middle of it all! I have to confess that I love that she is like my little shadow, she has brought so much laughter into our house with her funny antics.

I found this pic on the pc, the little girl is from a Creative Expressions set, coloured with Promarkers.

This was a clean/simple Clarity card I didnt get around to showing you, using the Wrought Iron collection, I used the chair-back to make the bunting.

See you Sunday for some Clarity tv cards.

Have a good weekend!

Happy Monday, baby!

2011-11-28T13:50:00.000Z

Yep its come around again, like a flash!

I did actually manage to get some Christmas shopping done at the weekend though, and Santa knows whats what, so thats good.

I have been busy with samples for the Claritystamp tv shows next weekend.

Also I have been doing samples for my Create & Craft shows which have now been re-scheduled, so I have a little longer to prepare for those.

So with all that happening (and more) secret stuff, I dont have a lot that I can show you yet, so I used another of my image stash to put a quick card together to show you.

The FF image was coloured with Copics when I first got them- thats my excuse for the dodgy shading, think I prefer my PM's.

I used Centura pearl card with an A4 mask from Stamps Away/Clevercut, I have lots of Ali's masks on my wish list.

I have used my treasured Scrabble set from Claritystamp for my lettering.

The spellbinders need no introduction.

The Cosmic Shimmer Black and white pearl glue is from Creative Expressions

A bit of ribbon and some Candi to finish.

Dont forget 3 more followers and I will organise some blog candy.

See you soon!

A tv whisper, and some Blog candy news!

2011-11-24T13:40:00.000Z

Hello gang, its after lunch again I know, but I have been a busy girl this morning. Im preparing samples and demo's for a couple of tv shows im doing in a couple of weeks- Im gonna keep you guessing what im doing for now, but my fingers are a little discoloured at the moment,hint hint!

Oh, and Im loving the goodies that are on the shows- no more clues, unless you ask very very nicely for a sneak peek next week.

Did I mention Im excited?

Now, the title mentions Candy does'nt it, well as soon as I get to 350 followers I will sort some crafty Blog Candy, already at 340 so not a big mountain to climb!

Got tons to do,

Organise myself for tomorrow pm- Im doing Glitter Body Art at Amber's School fayre.

(please dont try this with craft glitter & glue, I use specialist materials and observe H&S guidelines etc)

Go buy the last of my equipment for my workshops-just need scissors, rulers, paint brushes and bits.

Decide whats for tea- the troops are both home tonight so we need a dvd too.

So Im gonna be a bit quiet for the duration, a thousand apologies!

Over & out

Over the Moon!

2011-11-23T08:00:00.000Z

No not me, Maggy!

This is another of those images I forgot about, I love this one because she can sit on the edge of a die or on a bench or whatever.

I used Spelldinders for the moon, EK edge punch, flowers from Wild Orchid with a dash of Cosmic Shimmer Twinkles, bit of bling and away we go!

oh and I coloured with PM's.

Thats it for today, still busy!

Have a good one whatever your doing.

Denim inkpad is fighting back!

2011-11-21T12:21:00.001Z

Yeah, how about that, I managed to get another couple of skies from the overworked Denim Adirondack!

Todays card holds a little Simms DNA, its actually quite disgusting, Steve sneezed as he walked behind me and guess where the spray went! So, if I send you this card just dont handle it too much lol.

The Carriage is available here from the Claritystamp shop. When I was looking for this to insert the link, I found another Clarity Carriage that I didnt know about- I want that one too, have a look.

Hope this inspires you to get your brayer out!

Im off, got lots to do, finish Clarity cards for December tv shows, some magazine cards to do, a couple of commissions. I need to clear the decks ready to prepare for.......something I will tell you about very soon!!!

See you soon.

Frosty & Bright with Clarity and PanPastel.

2011-11-20T08:27:00.054Z

Good morning, I must confess its actually Saturday night as I write, but when this goes live guess where I will be- yes exactly, In bed hopefully still asleep!

My card today is for a guest slot on the PanPastel Challenge blog.

You dont need to use PanPastels to enter the challenges so head on over and have a look.

The theme this week is Frosty & Bright.

I used 3 shades of PanPastel to blend the background/sky.

Then using Black Adirondack ink I stamped my Spruce trees, Sentiment and mini Santa sleigh, all from Claritystamp.

Thats the 'bright' sorted, for the 'frosty' I used a white pen to add some frost/snow to the trees.

Thanks for stopping by, see you soon!

A Brayered Christmas card

2011-11-18T12:20:00.000Z

Happy Friday gang, you have my permission to sleep late tomorrow!

As for today, I promised to show you a brayered card, I cant show you the large batch that I made because they are a special order, so not really mine to show.

I think these will be ok for my 'peaceful' Christmas cards.

The little Lamp post and the Geese are from the remountable Village set, Also from Claritystamp the medium size Lamp Post, and the text stamp. There is a large Lamp Post available, the 3 sizes look great on a project together.

I have done so many of the snowy sky scenes lately that my Denim inkpad is in desperate need for a replacement, its now a great pad for sponging work though because you dont have to get rid of very much ink from your sponge before touching your artwork.

I edged with Black Promarker, matted onto silver and then onto White Centura Pearl A5 card blank.

Right im off, I have a Panpastel card to do ready for the new challenge blog and I need the Post Office.

Have a good one!

Some Quick batch cards

2011-11-17T10:30:00.000Z

Good Morning from a sunny Wirral. I have been really busy making lots of cards, some brayered some papercrafty ones, I cant show you them all but I will show you something brayered tomorrow, but today I have just a couple of quick batch cards to show you, I have a ton of stuff that has been in the cupboards forever and needed using, I needed to get a large batch of 'clean & simple' cards together quickly so these were good to put together really fast.

This one is using a Lili Die-cut, Nellie heart, some card from a pick & mix box, EK punch and a random text stamp.

This one uses some 6x6 FF papers and a sentiment stamp set from Clarity.

This uses a lovely foiled butterfly from Kanban and some embossed card, EK punch, few pearls from Meiflower.

Nothing fancy or clever but worthy of a quid each for a good cause I think.

Thats it, see you tomorrow!

A forgotten Maggy

2011-11-15T14:41:00.000Z

Hello folks, happy Tuesday and all that jazz.

I am still trying to finish my 'sort out' its a massive job that doesnt seem to end. It does have its compensations though, I found a couple more images I coloured in ages ago, so I thought they should be used up.

This is one of my fave Magnolia images. I just needed to die-cut her and edge with Violet PanPastel.

The paper is from Papermania. The sentiment stamp is Lili of the Valley. Cutting die is a Spellbinder.

I coloured with PM's. Can you see how soft the PanPastel effect is, I use these a lot now instead of inkpads for edging, so easy.

Thats it for today, see you soon.

Another In the Classroom lesson 4 card.

2011-11-14T14:10:00.000Z

Its Monday again, do they actually come around faster the closer to Christmas we get, or does it just feel that way coz im not organised?

Hope everybody had a good weekend anyway, did you see the Claritystamp shows?

Here is another of my Classroom cards

I used the versamark trick for the fluffy clouds for a change, Denim and Lettuce inks, Birdhouse is coloured with Copics.

I hope you like it, it took nearly an hour for the pic to load today!

See you soon.

This shaker was a JOY to make!

2011-11-13T12:02:00.001Z

Good nearly afternoon, hope your weekend is a happy one.

Todays card is a shaker made with the Classroom set 'Joy ' from Claritystamp, I wanted to do something different with the large Joy.

As you can see, the photography is up to my usual high standard.......hmm

I used my landscape large postage stamp,also from Claritystamp.

I used some crystaline glitter for the shaker.

A bit of masking and away you go.

Enjoy the rest of your day!

A Kickin Birthday

2011-11-11T07:19:00.010Z

Hello, its Friday! not that it makes much difference to me but im sure its good for those of you who are Monday-Friday workers.

I was struggling a little for something to show you today because most of my work this week is secret for now- cant wait to show you some of it.

so, I decided to show you this little guy

The stamps are from a Creative Expressions set, the papers are from Papermania

If my memory serves me well, I coloured with PM's

The ink pad used for distressing was stormy sky

Nesties and an Ek punch, bit of string, jobs a goodun.

I hope you will join in with 2 minutes silence at 11am today, I dont imagine there are many of us that have been untouched by war in some way.

Sending peaceful hugs to you all!

Luna & her frosty friend.

2011-11-10T11:48:00.000Z

Hellooo, its a bit late to say 'good morning' so, good day to you (in a posh voice). Im late because I have been to Amber's class assembly, she was a Peacock and read a poem, it was lovely!

Todays card shows a digi from Pollycraft called Luna Bitterfrost, what a cool name-literally. I coloured her about a year ago and she has sat in the unloved pile eversince, so I thought she should make an appearance.

I used 2 Promarkers and a Prisma pencil to colour.

A bit of glitter, few pearls.

I used 2 embossing folders, Spellbinders, Martha Stewart punches.

The sentiment is a Lili of the Valley stamp.

Thats it, see you tomorrow.

Coloured with PanPastels

2011-11-09T17:35:00.001Z

As promised here is the card I made yesterday using PanPastels to colour the image.

I decided I wanted to try these wet with a brush to see if you can colour a stamped image, I was looking for my Sansador but it was downstairs, so laziness kicked in and I decided to use baby oil, went to the bathroom cabinet and there was none,so still being lazy I decided to try Avon SSS bath oil- I was only gonna play to see if it worked so stop laughing, I can hear you!

Anyway, this is the result of my first attempt, not too bad me thinks.

I used turquiose, burnt sienna, black, yellow to mix the colours.

I shaded the edges with turquois and a sponge while still in the cutting die, much easier to blend than ink.

For more ideas on how to use PanPastels have a look at Kerry's blog and there is also a new challenge blog.

Thanks for looking, see you soon.

Ribbon,PanPastel,Silk painting and... a Massage!

2011-11-09T11:00:00.000Z

Good Morning!

Its taken until today to recover from the weekend ( must be getting old), I said I would tell you all about it didnt I.

Well Saturday at the NEC was fantastic, and I didnt get lost on the way,yeah!

First stop was for a hug from Barbara,Dave,Elaine,Annette,Hazel on the Claritystamp stand, Barbara & Dave had bought Amber the most funky Owl handbag for her birthday-her little face when she saw it!

So off to shop we went, while Amber spent a fortune in a jewellery making stand I was opposite her on the MeiFlower stand-they are lovely guys, and the Polkadot ribbon I bought was one of my best bargains of the day along with the sticky pearls and buckles.

We managed to find Kerry Kennedy doing her PanPastel workshops,so we joined in at 11am, I already had a couple of PanPastels which Bernie had sent me to try but after trying them I needed more. I will show you a card I made with them later.

At the PanPastel workshop

You should definitely give these a try, very versatile! have a look here and check out the challenge blog too.

We also met a ton of lovely people who stopped to chat, and some familiar faces too, it was great to meet my buddy Steve in person.

Eventually we had so much stuff I actually subscribed to Quick Cards magazine to get a free spotty caddy on wheels, we filled it with no trouble at all.

Amber was thrilled with the idea of all the workshops, she managed to get a place for the silk painting.

I did of course go and buy her some supplies so she can have a go at home.

The next thing you need after a hard day shopping,chatting,crafting and spending all your mum's money......

A Massage!

Come back later gang, so I can show you my PanPastel card and how it was done.

Wizard of Oz

2011-11-07T19:22:00.000Z

I finally got around o showing you the bunting I made for Amber's Birthday last week, I had real trouble getting decent pics of this, not like me to have photograpic woe is it.......

So here it is

I was originally going to do triangular bunting but I couldnt bear to cut those Wizard of Oz papers up too much.

So I used my Grand Nesties Label dies instead.

Each flag has a letter of her name cut on the cricut.

I also used my Tim Holtz die for the rosettes, inked the edges with black ink.

I used my one and only Grand borderability die in black and made a red shadow. Bit of ric-rac, and some red tuille that has been unloved forever.

The tuille is attached on the back using strong tape, Then covered over with a white card label shape to keep it all neat.

This might be a nice project for some bored Military wives in Germany (that means your gang Jackie) Christmas theme maybe???

Im just finishing off some secret work and then hopefully tomorrow I will have time to tell you all about our weekend.

Take care!

Oh Baby!

2011-11-04T07:16:00.033Z

Happy Friday gang!

Have the fireworks started where you are yet, its been particularly quiet on The Wirral this year, im not complaining though because I know the bunnies dont like all the bangs, they will all have to come indoors tomorrow night.

Back to today, this baby card is made using a baby stamp set from Creative Expressions, Spellbinder dies and an embossing folder.

I decoupaged the nappy. Added some glitter for accent.

The pins, button, ribbon are from Abhakan, pearls are from Kanban.

Ok, im off to do some work, I have a large commision job to do.

Have a good one!

A special one, for a special one!

2011-11-03T07:18:00.001Z

Good morning, well sort of- im writing this on Wednesday night before i go to bed, but your used to me doing that sometimes right?

I wanted to show you the card for my Mumsy's birthday, she loves floral/butterfly type cards with pretty borders and stuff, so this went down well. I nearly forgot to photograph it, remembered at her house and had to snatch it back for 5 minutes.

The floral card has been floating around for a loooooong time, I also used White centura pearl card from Crafters Companion-love it!

The birds eye view

I used Magenta Pan Pastel to colour the sides of the butterflies, I have to say I really love how easy they are to blend, the result is flawless with no effort at all-Thank you Bernie for sending me these!

The stamp is from Claritystamp. The circle is a large Marianne die, I cut a nesty circle into it and then with the dies still in place run it through my Cuttlebug with an embossing folder.

Hopefully I will have Amber's bunting on the wall and photographed to show you tomorrow.

Have a good Thursday.

A fairy,but its a dark one!

2011-10-31T10:23:00.000Z

Well if Im gonna show you a fairy on Halloween it has to be a dark one does'nt it!

I was planning on showing you what I made for Amber's Birthday but I cant figure out how to fit it into a picture, so I may do it later if there is time.

So here is the fairy..

I bryaered with Pitch Black Adirondack and coloured with Copics,which im still practicing with!

I stamped the Fairy first and masked him, then stamped the toadstools to make it look like he is sat on them. Little glitter to the wings to finish.

Ok im gone, lots to do!

See you soon

Paddington in Mono

2011-10-30T12:35:00.000Z

Happy Sunday to you! Well you did get an extra hour in bed so it must be happy right?

Actually I woke up and didnt know what time it was, had my phone and the Stereo updated itself? what about the laptop, eventually the penny dropped and I turned the radio on, I can always rely on good old Planet Rock to tell me the time.

Anyways... Here is a card using the Limited Edition Paddington Stamps, I thought I would do a batch of these for Barbara Gray's charity auction as they were so quick and easy to make.

I should also confess that the layout was inspired by Stevie's competition card for Happy Stampers North West (which was a winner) pic below.

Steve's competition card

The filmstrip is a Tim Holtz die. I drew through the windows onto white card so I knew where to stamp, and then stamped through an aperture mask. I glazed with Glossy Accents.

You may also recognise the Scrabble set from Claritystamp, this set stays on my desk at all times, its so useful.

If you would like to contribute a card/cards to the charity auction, please click on the link to the Clarity shop in the side bar--->

for the address!

Enjoy your day, see you tomorrow.

Lilac & Lime

2011-10-29T15:11:00.000+01:00

Hi all, hope your Saturday is going ok, its all quiet here. Amber has just arrived home from Nanny's and Steve is staying out most of the weekend,so just us girls and Milly bunny. I have a couple of bits and bobs to show you over the weekend.

This is a little tag I made the other day using some older Creative Expressions stamps.

I roughly inked the tag with Shabby Shutters/Dusty Concorde distress inks, then sprayed lightly with Cosmic Shimmer mica mixed with a drop of water. Then I stamped the tag and some torn lime paper,using the same inks.

I stamped the flutterby onto double sided adhesive from Claritystamp and added mica powder for a gorgeous shimmer, acetate on the other sticky side gives stability so you can bend the wings a little.

Then I added some tiny blobs of pearly glue and covered in sparkly bits!

Hope you like it, see you tomorrow for a Clarity card.

When is a kite not a kite.....

2011-10-28T11:10:00.000+01:00

Good Morning, yes its late morning but hey ho!

Yesterday I promised to show you the Crucifix card I made with the little Kite from the Wrought Iron Garden set from Claritystamp, so here it is...

Just like yesterday, I had to borrow the picyure back from Barbara's Gallery, so only one pic im afraid. This is a shortfall card, the wording strip is actually on the inside edge of the card.

This was very easy to make, I just brayered the corners with Denim, stamped the first four kites in place and then masked the downward pointing kite and stamped over to extend the length. The words were stamped using the Scrabble set (also from Clarity) I cut an aperture mask and then stamped the kite over the wording using second generation ink.

Im off now to get going on a birthday project for Amber while she is out, I will show you on Monday!

Have a good one.

Mono Wrought Iron

2011-10-27T19:18:00.000+01:00

Good evening, I have been quite busy today-doing as little as physically possible, Im loving this whole week off work malarky. I have a couple of crafty bits to do, Its my mum's birthday on Tuesday but before that its Amber's birthday on Monday-Halloween!

For today I thought I would show you one of the cards I made with the Wrought Iron Garden set from Claritystamp, I actually had to pinch the photo from Barbara's online gallery because I forgot to photograph it.

This is Black & White although it looks a little blue in the picture, you cant see the sparkly glitter either, so you will just have to trust my word!

Tomorrow I will show you the Crucifix card I made with the kite from this set.

Thanks for stopping by!

Happy Crafting!

One for Steve & one for Stephen.

2011-10-24T20:56:00.000+01:00

Good evening to you and welcome to my new followers, its great to have you!

It has been ages (a week is ages!) since I showed you anything I have made, so as im off work this week I thought id show you something that was not work related-just for fun!

So here is a card I made for my Steve's 12th birthday. You will notice the almost lack of embellishment and bright colour etc, it is not cool when your 12, apparently....

I used a vintage car and my treasured scrabble set stamps from Claritystamp, silver embossed onto textured grey card, added a little shading with black Adirondack. I used an Ek punch, and I embossed the satin Silver card with a folder.

To my relief, it was well received!

Now for a card for Stephen Nicholls, my lovely FB buddy.

Do you recognise the stamps? yes they are more Claritystamps. The cutting dies are spellbinders designed by Donna Salazar- I love these.

This one was well received too!

See you soon.

Farewell to Hunkydory

2011-10-22T20:37:00.000+01:00

Good evening all, I have spent all afternoon wondering how to write this post, so here goes...

I have made the difficult decision to leave Hunkydory. As you know, I am also a rubber stamper, and I would like to spend my time more evenly between the different crafts that I love so much.

I would like to thank each and every one of the many new crafty friends I have made, your support has meant the world to me - you guys are the best!!!

Also I would like to wish the team at Hunkydory the very best for the future.

Keep crafting gang!!!

Maria

A Fantastique box and a Happy Birthday.

2011-10-12T10:20:00.000+01:00

Morning gang, notice I didnt say 'good' morning, its piddling down here and generally gloomy looking. Its not gloomy in our house though, its Steve's 12th Birthday today, I bought him an electric guitar and amp, so its gonna get loud after school!!! I will get a photo if I remember later.

I thought id show you one of the boxes I made using the Hunkydory Fantastique kit, I need to make a template for the lid and base for future use, I winged it and it worked ok fo both boxes- but i think that was just luck!

I used Curly Wurly embossed card and Polka Dot embossed card for the actual box.

This is the mini book card made using the Dressing Room kit and a Fancy label shaped card blank.

Thats it for today, im off to B&Q for more dowels, still working on the new craft room!

Have a good day!

A Partridge, a Pear Tree, but definitely not Christmas!

2011-10-10T07:54:00.002+01:00

Its the start of another week already! The shops are getting ready for Christmas-im not though because I have loads of Birthdays to worry about first. I also feel the need to have a little break from all things Christmas, I have been making cards since about May!

On that note, I will show you something non-Christmas.

This is an A5 card using the Claritystamp Partridges and Pear Trees, its still not Christmas though!

Have a good week folks!

Hoffe sie gefallen euch!

2011-10-05T11:06:00.000+01:00

Good morning, I hope your weather is as good as it is here, sunny and dry. Im at home today but cant decide whether to rest the poorly bones or ignore them and do loads of stuff!

I certainly have plenty to get done, I have wallpaper that needs removing thanks to Milly bun, she has nibbled in several places-apparently bunnies cant resist the smell of the wallpaper paste, and Milly likes paper of all descriptions anyway, I normally make sure she has a screwed up piece to play with while im at work, she is actually a well behaved bunny most of the time. So I decided there is no point re-papering because she might do it again, so I am looking at painting a nice subtle mushroom colour instead-problem solved!

I also have some crafting I could be doing, its Stevie's Birthday next week so he needs a card, I also have a little birthday project to do for my little Halloween witch- cant believe she is nearly 10!!!

What else...oh yes I could be doing some cards for Barbara, she is back on German screens again this month so she will need a few cards for that. Speaking of all things German/Clarity, here are a couple more of last months cards.

Hoffe sie gefallen euch!

Thanks for looking, see you tomorrow!

More Hunkydory idea reminders.

2011-10-03T19:14:00.000+01:00

Im assuming you have all had your Hunkydory 3 for 2 goodies delivered by now, so are you wanting a couple more reminders of the cards you can make?

This is for you then.

See you tomorrow!