Cards, Scrappin and Stuff!

Two challenges down.... two to go!!

2012-02-06T19:32:00.000+11:00

On Facebook, I am part of a group called Scrap it with Attitude and this month they are hosting their first challenge. It has a recipe of items you need to include in your page. These were: circles, twine and buttons. Here is what I came up with.

The second challenge was to create a birthday card. Very simple! I have been looking on pinterest (well ok, I admit.... obsessing!!!) and came across a beautiful card using the Fifth Avenue stamp set. I adore that set and haven't had it out for quite some time, so that was all I needed for the inspiration for my next project.

I still need to attach the sentiment but I just didn't have one I was happy with!

I will post again when I have finished the next two challenges.

Picture Cube

2012-01-30T23:25:00.001+11:00

Tonight over on Crafters Anonymous, it was our first class after the Christmas and New Year break. I decided to start off 2012 with this cute project. I have so many photos I need to scrap this year, I thought what better way to begin than by creating some photo cubes!! Hope you like them.

Miss Amalie

2011-10-22T16:48:00.001+11:00

Here is my latest reborn baby. She is the Kitten kit by Donna Rubert. She is 26" long and the size of a 9mnth old. She weighs a healthy 9lb 2oz. She was reborn on the 18th October, 2011.

Her name is "Miss Amalie" as Amalie is my Great-Niece's name and Amalie swears this wee girl is just like her!! What other name could she possibly have!! Thank you Amalie for naming this baby for me. I am now working on the Cuddles kit, also by Donna Rubert, and as I have named this one for Amalie, I am sure I will have to name Cuddles "William" after Amalie's brother! ;-)

.. and this is the "original" Miss Amalie with another of my babies.

My Memories Suite Digital Scrapbooking

2011-09-21T12:39:00.001+10:00

My Memories Suite is a fantastic digital scrapbooking program. Simple to use and so many things you can do with it!

For anyone who is interested in a discount on this program, please do go to the above linked address to My Memories, and when you register, add this unique code for your discount: STMMMS95473
I recommend you copy and paste the code to ensure you get the correct combination.

Don't forget to use this code when purchasing anything at all from My Memories .

Featured Fortnight........

2011-09-20T14:10:00.000+10:00

On Crafters Anonymous we have decided to have a feature once a fortnight. This could be a stamp set, a colour theme, a certain punch or die, anything!! For our first Feature we have chosen a "Spring" theme, and the "Nature Walk" stamp set.

Here is my entry. Not the best, but I now have an idea in mind for doing a 2nd one. :-)

Look forward to seeing what others come up with for this.

And the Winner is.............................

2011-09-17T14:13:00.001+10:00

I have just drawn the winner for the Free My Memories digital program via Random.Org.

No. 2 is: Debi!! Congratulations Debi. I will contact you with all the details shortly.

Thank you to everyone who put in for this.

Remembering...............

2011-09-07T23:00:00.000+10:00

On My Memories Blog ( http://www.mymemoriesblog.com/2011/09/its-wednesday-thats-challenge-day-on.html ) They host a challenge on a Wednesday. This week was very appropriate for me, as it was a challenge about remembering.

September 2011 would have been our daughter Victoria's 22nd Birthday. Sadly we lost her in an accident when she was 4yrs old. The pain never leaves us, we just learn over the years how to live with it. Not a day passes that we don't think of our Angel, and this poem expresses those feelings well.

My Memories Digital Scrapbooking..........

2011-09-07T10:46:00.000+10:00

My Memories is a wonderful program for doing your digital scrapbooking. I have been amazed at the simplicity, and the range of projects you can do with this program.

Here is my first attempt at digital scrapbooking. It took me no time at all!

There are so many templates to choose from, and many, many more you can download. Please visit and give this program a try!

For all those who leave a comment on my blog regarding My Memories Digital Scrapbooking, and let me know why they would like to own this program, I will put you in a draw to win a FREE copy of this program! Yes absolutely FREE!

I will run this for one week before I choose a winner. Please comment, and be in with a chance!

2011-09-01T20:05:00.000+10:00

Wow isn't this a brilliant technique? The lovely Julia Leece showed us how to do this double stamping on the candle tonight over on Crafters Anonymous. I love it!! Hmm, now to get a whole stack of candles in so I can have a go at all the ideas I have!! Thank you Julia!!

Mini Box and Flower tutorial for Crafters Anonymous

2011-08-29T20:16:00.001+10:00

Tonight was my turn to teach the online class on Crafters Anonymous. It went really well indeed. Some of the projects are totally amazing! It always surprises me at the variety and individuality of the different projects. Fantastic!!!

Here is what we did tonight

What about some Reborning???

2011-08-27T23:33:00.002+10:00

Yes I have been doing that too!

Here is my little Hannah. She is made from the Sofie kit, I think I liked her because of the thumb sucking. :-) The little lemon cardigan she is wearing was knitted by my Mum. Its the only one out of 27 items that Mum actually completed (one was started for each Grandchild) so its very special.

This is Rachael. She is made from the Quinton kit. Poor Rachael is NOT happy... I think her pigtails may be a little too tight... what do you think???

Last but not least we have Alexander David. He is only 18" long and weighs 3lb. A wee cutie with his blond curly locks!

So as you can see, a few more babies to share our home (for now anyway! lol). I am working on another reborn, but I cannot share photos as that one will be entered into a competition next month. I also have a set of twins to do, thats going to be an exciting set to work on!!

Well, until the next baby comes along, that's all my news for this time. Happy Crafting folks!!!

ps: Keep an eye on my blog... I have some awesome news to share, and I am going to be starting a brand new craft!!! More on that later.

Some Scrapbooking Pages..

2011-08-27T23:17:00.001+10:00

I have not only been card-making, but I have also done a few pages too! I really enjoy scrapbooking, it goes hand in hand with my love of photography and photos!!

Anyway, here is a few pages from the past month. Enjoy.

This first page is my attempt at a Vintage Style page. I wanted it to reflect the era of the time of the photograph, which was 1960. I love vintage, but am afraid I need more practice at getting it just right!!

Now this was a fun page! My Great-Nephew Will enjoys going for a walk with his Mum, his big Sister Amalie, the family dog, the cat, and ..... the horse!! What a sight it must be to see them all trooping off down the road. Absolutely priceless!!!!

In June I became Great-Aunt once again to an adorable little girl named Elvy. Elvy is the daughter of Steve and Nerissa Cottle. Nerissa is my brother Brian's daughter, and my Niece. Precious isn't she!

Yes I have been creating...................

2011-08-27T23:10:00.003+10:00

..............no I haven't been blogging!! Oops!

Here are a few projects I have done in the past few weeks. I will try to keep up with my blogging, but I will not promise!! ;-)

Over on Crafters Anonymous, Tia showed us this template to make this gorgeous wee bag! Wouldn't it be ideal for parties? I love it!!

For the first time ever, I had a go at Iris Folding! Wow! I never would have thought it was so simple had I not been shown! Again, Crafters Anonymous was the place to be taught this awesome technique. Clever isn't it!!

I did this card for my Nephew for his 14th Birthday. I tried using the baby wipe technique with this card... what do you think? A bit bright???

September is Father's Day here in Australia, so I wanted to make a couple of different cards to show a friend of mine. The top one will be my Step-Father's card, as he is clock crazy!! I wanted to give it a vintage look but not sure I quite managed that! Oh well, I am sure he will appreciate it regardless.

Another masculine card!! These ARE the hardest to make, so I keep on playing around with them. I rather like this one! I did CASE it from one I have seen recently but for the life of me I cannot recall where. I think this motorbike stamp is just great!!

This was my very poor attempt at brayering. I know, I know, FAIL!! lol. Still, it was fun, and I do intend to keep on trying, I will NOT give up!!

Hope you enjoyed seeing a few of the projects I have been doing the past few weeks. I will endeavour to blog more often from now on. :-)

Tonight's Online Class

2011-07-04T20:20:00.002+10:00

Over on Crafter's Anonymous tonight, we created this lovely tea bag, or chocolate, caddy. I had wanted to put after dinner mints in it, but I was unable to buy any here, so had to make do with some teabags. This is a neat idea for a gift I thought. What do you think??

If you wish to be invited to join Crafter's Anonymous, please email me on: brigsyanne@gmail.com and ask for an invite.
All are welcome!

Mini Challenge

2011-06-30T17:18:00.002+10:00

Very often, my friend Tia Routledge and I do a mini challenge. This week we challenged one another to CASE (Copy And Share Exactly) a card/project out of the current 2010 - 2011 Idea Book & Catalogue by Stampin' Up! (c)

I always enjoy these little challenges, and this week was no different. Funny, Tia and I both picked the SAME stamp set to CASE! Just goes to show it's a winner!!

The stamp set is called: Just Believe and is featured on page 79 of the magazine. I used the bleaching technique for this card. A very quick, simple and effective technique.

Tuesday = Doll Making!!

2011-06-22T11:40:00.000+10:00

Every Tuesday (when possible) I visit my friend Debbie Foodey's, for Doll making. Debbie introduced me to the world of "Reborning" when I moved back to Australia from NZ. I immediately fell in love with it. I love bringing the blank vinyl to life! Just what I needed! ANOTHER craft to get hooked on!
Anyway, yesterday Debbie and I were able to complete not one, but TWO kits each! These projects had been on the go for quite a few weeks, so I was very excited to see them finally come together. Here are a few photos of our Session yesterday, enjoy!!

These are the four heads, after hair rooting, styling and now awaiting attaching to the bodies. The two blondies are mine. The two brown haired babies are Debbie's.

My two blond babies... I wanted a bit of a curl/wave to these and thanks to Debbie, they turned out just as I had hoped.

Chloe... Finished!!! This kit is the Chloe kit, and I love the name so decided to stick with that. Chloe comes complete with an anatomically correct tummy and tushy plate. The photos aren't the best, as the light was shocking last night! (It was snowing in the hills not far from us, but we had rain, and it was bitterly cold!)

Aww thats better, Chloe all snuggly and warm now. This suite is actually too small for her so my Mum will be coming tomorrow to re-dress the babies... her favourite job!!

Chloe is 4lb 8oz and 21" long.

This is Debbie's and my Chloe kits. Debbie has re-named her doll "Ruby Mae"

..................... and here is Chloe wearing her hat, Mum's going to HATE this. lol.

The 2nd kit we completed was the "Kaya" kit. I was really happy with how this one turned out, her name is now "Jade". As you can see, she is too big for this outfit, so tomorrow she too will have a wardrobe change.
Jade is 4lb 4oz and 22" long.

This is Debbie's Kaya kit, and sorry I don't remember what she has named her. Don't you love her outfit!!

The Two Kaya Kits. Mine is the one on the right, "Jade".

.... and finally, my two girls snuggled up on the sofa at Debbie's waiting to go home!

Here is Debbie's two girls, snuggled on the lounge. Can you tell I had an AWESOME day?????

2011-06-20T19:43:00.001+10:00

Tonight over on Crafter's Anonymous, we were shown how to make this adorable Double Easel card by Sharon Makin. I think its gorgeous!! I can assure you this will NOT be the last one of these I make! Just love it!!

Todays Scrapbook Page...

2011-06-20T15:17:00.001+10:00

As you may have noticed, I LOVE doing scrapbook pages, especially of children. They grow up too quickly, and are forever changing. This is our darling Great-Niece and Nephew, Amalie and Will, doing two things they both enjoy..... camping and eating. ;-) Even during the Winter months, they love going with their parents and their dogs camping! These two certainly are outdoors kids, just like my boys were. I so love seeing them in their natural element. xx

A Scrapping Challenge...

2011-06-11T21:57:00.019+10:00

This weekend, Tia Routledge and I are having a challenge between us. We decided to create a scrapbook page. One turned into two, then two turned into three! Once we got into the swing of it, neither of us wanted to stop!

Here are my efforts for this weekend. Rather varied.. but its been fun.

This first one is my Niece Anita's wedding photos. She was married in May, 2011 in Hervey Bay. I used some material from her actual wedding dress, some ribbon from her bouquet and some dried roses I had, as the wedding flowers were roses.

Next, this is something I have had in mind to do for quite some time. My Nephew Matthew, with one of his horses. Its not quite how I had imagined it, but I am pleased with it. The photo could have been a bit brighter, but you can sort of see it. ;-)

This is Alirah Norris, my Great-Niece. These photos were taken in a park in Mudgee NSW, don't they show off the Autumn tones well! I love these photos so really didn't want to do too much to the background of these.

These two cuties are my Great-Niece Amalie, and Great-Nephew William. Adorable!! Very much outdoors children, always on the go, so loving!! I hope I captured a bit of their personalities in these pages. I really enjoyed scrapping these.

So, thats my challenge for this weekend. Please check back often, I do have a few things that I need to blog about, so hopefully I will get to those very soon!!

Unconvention.. A colour chalenge

2011-05-14T18:38:00.000+10:00

Over on ESAD, they are hosting some challenges for those of us who were unfortunate not to be able to attend the Stampin' Up! (R) convention being held this weekend in Melbourne.

I decided to have a go, as I love colour challenges. This is what I came up with.

The colours were: Soft suede, River Rock and Crumb cake.
I used my brand new stamp set, "Nature Walk" for this challenge, I adore this set! I can see it becoming one of my all time favourites.

Dee's Funky Fold Card

2011-05-11T19:25:00.000+10:00

I really enjoyed creating this funky fold card with Dee on Crafters Anonymous on Monday night. What a great fold, and so many ideas!! I went with a masculine card as I always find plenty of uses for those. I haven't added a sentiment as yet as I am not sure just what this will be used for at the moment. Isn't it a cool card though!! Thank you Dee for sharing with us how to do this card.

Listen, do you want to know a secret............ Do you promise not to tell??

2011-05-10T18:44:00.000+10:00

.............. can you guess what that secret is???????

A little bit of Crafting..

2011-05-10T18:43:00.000+10:00

These are my newest "Reborn" dolls. A very addictive hobby if I do say so myself. lol. Still, as in all crafts, its very satisfying when you see the completed project. Lucky for me, my Mum adores these babies, so my home isn't overtaken with them.

Special Class ......... May 2nd 2011

2011-05-05T16:17:00.000+10:00

On Monday this week, I hosted an online class on Crafters Anonymous making this cute Tag Flag Album. I love how it turned out and love what the members have done in creating their own. Some stunning works of art!

For anyone who is interested in joining Crafters Anonymous just send me an email and I will invite you to sign up on the site.
My email address is: brigsyanne@gmail.com

Exciting News!!!!!!!!!!

2011-04-27T19:49:00.000+10:00

Well, I am thoroughly excited and happy to share with you all, the fact that today I once again became a Stampin' Up! demonstrator under my very dear friend Tia!! I am thrilled. I love the company, the products and the people associated with it, so its a delight to be welcomed back into the SU family.

I cannot wait to begin this new journey. I look forward to hosting workshops and classes, and sharing what I love so much with other people.

Chest of Drawers

2011-03-28T22:23:00.000+11:00

Thank you to Tia Routledge tonight for hosting the class on Crafters Anonymous, where we made this gorgeous set of drawers! It is the perfect size to fit a packet of travel tissues! Ideal to gift someone some jewellery, or to store some in yourself. I can think of lots of uses for this wee gift box. Thank you Tia, its gorgeous!!

Scrapbook page no. 2... Alirah's 1st Birthday.

2011-03-27T16:07:00.000+11:00

Over on Crafters Anonymous, we are doing a 12 months of the year scrapbook challenge. For my March page, I just had to scrap this photo of Alirah, my Great-Niece. She turned 1 this month, a BIG event!! It deserved to be scrapped.
I think its going to be wonderful to look back on these pages, a whole year of memories!! Wonder what Aprils page will be!!!

Scrapbooking Class with Trudy!

2011-03-26T18:02:00.000+11:00

Today I attended my very first Stampin' Up! scrapbook class. I have to say I loved it! Great company, lovely products, and I was thrilled with the end results. Perfect day!!

Here is the page I did. This is my Great-Niece Alirah, and this was taken Christmas 2010. Her first Christmas.

I used the Sale-a-bration set, "Bliss" to stamp the background. Not quite finished as I have yet to add the journalling. Still, I couldn't wait to post what I had done. Thank you Trudy for a fantastic class!!

Tia's Blogging Class!

2011-03-24T20:12:00.002+11:00

Thanks to Tia over on Crafters Anonymous, we have now learnt how to add our signature to our posts. Cool or what!! Thank you Tia!!

The old bag...

2011-03-23T18:58:00.000+11:00

Isn't this gorgeous! Looks very "olde worlde" I think! I wanted to plaster stickers all over it, just as it might look if it had been all around the world a time or two. :-) This is actually just a matchbox pattern, made to look like a suitcase. Cute!!

It's all in the bag!!

2011-03-21T20:08:00.000+11:00

Tonight on Crafters Anonymous it was my turn to host the class. I am very happy to say tonight we had a record crowd! 31 guests would you believe!! I was pretty nervous, but we got through it! lol

This gorgeous gift bag is so easy to make, and is a wonderful size! It perfectly fits a small box of Roses chocolates! I am giving my Mother some CD's for Mother's Day, and this is perfect for that too. So many uses!!

Everyone loves a Cowboy!!

2011-03-17T16:12:00.000+11:00

.................. and I am no different! Well, I love these two cowboys anway! My Nephew's Matthew and James. Not everyone is lucky enough for their Dad's to own a farm, but these two boys are! What a life!!
They look like they were born in the saddle don't they!! I haven't quite finished off these pages, I would like to add some embellishments, but just couldn't find anything in my stash! Pity Stampin' Up! have retired their horse related stamp sets!!

Just catching up on some UFO's........

2011-03-17T14:02:00.000+11:00

Yesterday I came across some scrapbook pages I had intended doing at some stage, they were in folders with the paper I had intended to use, and not much else! I decided it was high time I got these completed, so here they are.

This is one of my Dad as a baby. This is the only photo we have of him so young.

My brother and I were often taken for twins when we were younger. I am not sure exactly what year these were taken, but my guess is between 1964 and 1966.

These lovely photos are ones that Cavina took when she was working at Flock Hill Station. I always loved them. Beautiful scenery thats for sure.

Sunday Challenge ... with a difference.

2011-03-16T15:12:00.000+11:00

Today I was supposed to be going to a cardmaking class, but due to an upset stomach had to stay at home. I tried resting, but that was not working, so I decided to take my mind off it by crafting. This week on Crafters Anonymous they have for the Sunday Challenge something a little different.

Jenny Adams had the honour of setting the challenge this fortnight and she has chosen one she is calling "Lift The Flap".
You could make anything you like, in any medium you like, as long as it has a 'Lift the Flap' with something underneath that catches the eye. Hmmmmmm, well, my project certainly has "flaps" you can lift, and what is written underneath is eye catching I guess. It is not quite completed yet as I have a couple of photos that didn't quite work for this project, but they can be added at a later date. I also need to print off and cut out a title for my page, but you get the idea!!

Crafters Anonymous Monday Night online Class!

2011-03-15T20:13:00.000+11:00

Each Monday night, we host an online class over at Crafters Anonymous and this week it was Rebekah's turn to do a tutorial.

We made a Star Shaped box, which I think is absolutely awesome! Thank you so much Rebekah for teaching us to make this, it's sure to be one of my favourite projects.

Reborning again!!

2011-03-15T19:58:00.000+11:00

Here is another newly completed reborn doll. She has yet to be weighed, but I would like to announce the rebirth of: Krystal Rose. Born: 15/03/2011
She is 20" long.

She has medium brown hair. I dont usually do dark haired babies but this colour just seemed to match Krystal's tones perfectly. Isn't she cute!!

Rylstone - Kandos Show Society Inc. 2011

2011-02-26T23:17:00.000+11:00

For the first time EVER, I entered something into the local show. I entered 5 of my scrapbook pages, and to my utter amazement, I received 2nd place for one of them! What a thrill!! I never expected to do so well, but ever so excited that I did.

Here is my page. Of course it had to win, it features my gorgeous Great-Niece Amalie!! :-)

Sorry its not very clear. But you get the idea right!! :-)

I also decided to enter two of the reborn dolls I have been making since November. Again, it was the farthest thing from my mind to expect anything when I entered them, but I wanted to just show people what "Reborn" dolls were like, and basically say that if I can do it, anyone can. Anyway, I put in two dolls. Again, I could have been knocked down with a feather when I noticed the amazing red sash on one of my babies!! Wow!!

This doll is special as I made her for my Daughter Victoria, and named her "Friday" because that was the name she gave ALL her dolls. She is wearing a dress identical to one our daughter Victoria used to have.

February Page... 2011

2011-02-26T23:09:00.002+11:00

Here is my page for February 2011. As my Mum turned 80 this month, I felt it deserved to be featured in my Page for the Month. Hope you like it.

12 months of the year Scrapbooking... crafters Anonymous

2011-02-19T17:13:00.001+11:00

This year I have undertaken the challenge of scrapping each month, highlighting the most important events of that month. Hopefully not every month will be as busy as January was, but I just didn't want to leave out any of the really important stuff!
Here is my first page of the year, January 2011.

I know these pages are a bit full on, but so was January!! :-)

Now thinking about doing the page for February!!

Tia's wonderful Online Class!

2011-02-16T18:43:00.000+11:00

Over on Crafters Anonymous on Monday night, Tia hosted a class and showed us how to make this cute as little box/bag. I love it, so perfect for giving that last minute gift, or just filling with choccies for any occasion.

I used a Stampin' Up! wheel on the background (sorry cannot remember what it was called) and stamped in Pear Pizzazz ink. I also had a go at making my very first rose from cutting a circle.. pretty darn cute aren't they!!

This bag was so easy to make, I just adore it. Thank you Tia!!

Sunday Challenge for Crafters Anonymous

2011-02-11T14:27:00.000+11:00

This week's online challenge over at Crafters Anonymous is to recreate in 3-D a project that reminds you of a Childhood toy! Well of course, as my family will tell you, my absolutely favourite childhood toy was those little plastic high-heeled shoes! I loved clomping about in them, I think it was the sound they made on the hard floors!

Anyway, to recreate that memory for me, I did this project.

The lollies inside the shoes also represent something from my childhood! I used to get these tiny lollies called "Jelly Tots" that were my favourites... these are not them, but the closest I could find.

Thank you Angie for coming up with this weeks Challenge.

Crafters Anonymous Online Class..... more punch art!

2011-02-08T23:12:00.000+11:00

Well this week we returned to doing online classes once again on Crafters Anonymous. It was a lovey turn out, with some new ladies joining in the fun of the online classes. I always enjoy our get-together in the chat room, and its fun to see what everyone comes up with on the night.
This is what we were making.

A Happy Birthday to my Mum who turned 80 on the 5th February

2011-02-08T23:10:00.000+11:00

Sorry these are not very clear photos but I forgot my camera!! This is my Mother, James my Nephew and my Step-Father Bill. Mum is holding the "cake" I made specially for her.

Mums Paper Cake, which contained afterdinner mints. Something a little different. Mum loved it.

Well I am back!!

2011-02-06T20:52:00.000+11:00

Hi there, well its certainly been a long time between posts hasn't it! I am happy to say that finally all my wonderful craft goodies are safely here in Australia with me and now UNPACKED!! They are not as yet sorted as they should be, due to lack of storage space and shelves etc. but all that will happen over time. At least its here!!

Since my last post, quite a lot has been happening. It's been a busy few months what with relocating etc. but also with taking up a NEW hobby! A very good friend of mine introduced me to Reborning, which is the art of turning vinyl doll kits into something resembling (or supposed to! lol) a newborn baby! I have to admit I have been thoroughly enjoying this new and very different craft. I will post some photos just to give you an idea of what I have been doing.

We also are now the proud owners/parents of a beautiful wee puppy. Her name is "Pippa" and she is 3 months old. She is a cross between a Pomeranian and a Shihtzu (a Pommy Shiht as my Son dubbed her!) who fits in perfectly with her new "Pommy" parents lol.

I am just starting to get back into my paper crafting now, but I am hoping to revamp my blog so I will upload some new projects and stuff as soon as I get the blog all sorted out.

Its great to be back! I am thoroughly enjoying having my own computer once more.

Having a Break.......

2010-10-07T05:37:00.000+11:00

There will be no new posts from me for the next wee while as all my craft goodies are now packed and ready to be sent on their journey to Australia!

I dreaded, and yet looked forward to this stage so much! Dreaded it because I knew once it came I would have to manage with no crafting, but excited because it means its that one step closer to our relocation! Finally, things are happening!!

I have kept out a cross stitch kit so I can fall back on that if I need to do some crafting. I am thinking of lots of ideas for when I finally get sorted out again in Australia!

So, please do watch this space for updated news. Enjoy your crafting, and I will continue to follow your blogs, and keep a keen eye out for those amazing projects out there.

Have a Wonderful, Crafty Christmas and New Year and I will be back! New Country, new home, and new craft ideas!!

A little Challenge .....

2010-09-26T18:35:00.000+10:00

Tonight on Crafters Anonymous, we decided it was time to host a small challenge. We were given an hour to come up with a project using the colours: ORANGE with two of the following: White, Cream, Brown, Blue or Green.

Quite a challenge! Still, everyone raced off and amazingly came up with some gorgeous projects! Sadly, mine is incomplete, but the rules state it had to be done in 1 hour, so here is mine. (I will finish it later on, but for this challenge, this is it!!)

Old Olive and Chocolate Chip always look so good!

2010-09-16T13:18:00.000+10:00

This is an oldie but a goodie! The envelope is stamped, sponged and run through the crimper. Just a little bit different and looks rather cute! The card was made using one of my favourite stamp sets, Friends 24-7.
Also on the envelope, I stamped with the new medallion background stamp, another favourite of mine.

I have to apologise for not blogging much lately but things are getting busy now. I am packing in earnest, our "stuff" leaves on 1st November, so not long to go! How will I cope without my craft goodies AND my computer???

I made sure I have a couple of good books to read and a cross stitch to do, so I will at least have something to fill my days.

Care Package from Julia Leece!

2010-09-09T09:49:00.000+10:00

I am absolutely stunned and blown away by the kindness and thoughtfulness of my dear friend Julia Leece. Today in the post our family received an amazing care parcel. There is some bath bombs, chocolates, skin care products, tissues and some gorgeous hand made goodies that Julia has made for us. How thoughtful!

The card certainly did make me smile Julia, and the rest... well its beyond wonderful!! Thank you dear friend from the bottom of my heart!! xxxxx

I felt the earth move, under my feet...........

2010-09-06T08:27:00.000+10:00

That song is so stuck in my head right now!! At least we are still all around to talk about it hey! What an experience! One I have NO intention of repeating thank you very much!

I think many people in NZ will remember 4:37am on September 4th, 2010 for the rest of their lives! Me one of them!!! I was literally "shaken" out of bed by the 7.1 magnetude earthquake that struck. I think everyone has a tale to tell about their experiences, ours were very mild compared to most and I thank God that no lives were lost!

The oddest occurance though for us was the fact that my husband John, who was out bringing the cows in, didn't feel a thing! Meanwhile my Son David and myself were rudely shaken from our beds (his mattress slid off his bed!) and his 42" tv smashed to the floor! A big speaker fell from his bookcase and landed where he would have been lying had it not been for the sliding of his mattress. For me, it was purely unbridled terror!

The aftershocks continued (and are still going on now, only not quite so violently!) seeming like every few minutes. You spend your days and nights bracing for the next one to come! Truly a terrifying experience.

So, what does one do when faced with no power, no water, and no means of communication with the outside world? One CRAFTS!!!

During this two days of horror, I created my very first Christmas Card for the year. Mind you, it took me two days to do it. lol. I found my self not able to sit still for more than a couple of minutes at a time. Still, it did allow the glue to dry. ;-)

Good luck to all the Cantabrians who are now trying to put their lives back together again after what has to be one of the most bizzarre weekends imaginable! My heart goes out to those who have lost their homes. It's a miracle there were no deaths!!! God Bless all the people who have worked tirelessly throughout the weekend to restore power and water to most of us. Your efforts are so much appreciated.

Christmas Decoration Share........

2010-08-29T18:34:00.000+10:00

Over on Crafters Anonymous, we have begun our Christmas Decoration Share. What this means is, every Sunday for the next few weeks, someone will post a tutorial on making your own Christmas Decoration. It can be in any form. I decided to start the ball rolling, and this is my decoration.

I made two, one in traditional Christmas colours and one slightly different. I have to say I quite like the blue!!
These are quilted Christmas Balls, no sewing at all. I think they are adorable!!

Next week we have Tia presenting us with her decoration. I am so looking forward to these projects! I simply adore home made tree ornaments. :-)

Another Scrapbook page...

2010-08-27T14:44:00.000+10:00

Here is the layout I did today, but I am not happy with how this one turned out. I really don't know where it went wrong, but it just doesn't have what I was hoping for!! Still, they say you learn from your mistakes, so hopefully my next page will reflect that. ;-)

The pictures are of my Mother, one taken of her as a little girl, and the other taken last year.

Scrapbook Page.. Sweet!

2010-08-26T18:38:00.000+10:00

This is my Great-Niece Amalie. I took these photos of her in May when I was in Australia on a visit. Miss Amalie is very lucky that her Nan owns a shop and has a HUGE lolly counter. Someone had fun filling bags and enjoying the contents.

I had a little visitor...

2010-08-24T19:14:00.000+10:00

While my friend Lisa went to work last week, her daughter Ali decided she needed to come and keep me company. Of course, what are girls supposed to do when they get together? CRAFT of course!! Ali made sure I was being "creative" as she busily worked away on her own projects. Hmmm do you think she looks as though she was having fun?

Busty Babes........

2010-08-24T19:11:00.000+10:00

Julia Leece showed us how to create these amazing cards over on Crafters Anonymous last night. Aren't they just the cutest cards!! I know who is going to be getting this one. ;-)

Guest Artist on Crafters Anonymous...

2010-08-23T12:06:00.000+10:00

Yesterday on Crafters Anonymous we were very lucky to have the lovely and talented Paula Dobson who showed us how to do sponging on a card. I have to say I have waited a very long time for this, and I was thrilled at the results.

I asked Paula which was the best cardstock to use whilst sponging and her reply was that she always used Whisper White, but she was happy for me to try it on both whisper white, and the glossy cardstock. Which I did!

Here is the results of my little test.

The card on the left was using Whisper White cardstock, and the one on the right was using Glossy. What do YOU think???

Thank you so much Paula, I loved our lesson on sponging. :-)

AnnaBelle's Blogoversary Candy!!

2010-08-21T15:19:00.000+10:00

Just look at this adorable blog candy you can win! It's beautiful!! I am sure this will be a very popular site to visit from now on. If you haven't visited, click on the link on the right hand side and head on over for a look.

A Sketch Challenge for Helping Hudson Appeal

2010-08-17T16:02:00.000+10:00

This week's Sketch Challenge on Helping Hudson is above. Lucky for me, I had done a card already for a different challenge on a different site that fits this sketch perfectly!! So, here it is:

Helping Hudson Appeal Technique Week 3

2010-08-17T12:12:00.000+10:00

CHALLENGE 8

This one is a technique challenge and we decided to let you guys help choose the technique. Last week one of our daily giveaway questions was 'What is your favourite technique?' The top 2 answers were ...

Sponging and Embossing

.... so that's going to be Challenge Number 8.
Dry embossing, heat embossing, emboss resist - take your pick and don't forget to get those daubers and sponges out and add some sponging.

This is my entry for the Sponging and Embossing technique. I chose a dry embossing technique and some sponging.

Helping Hudson Appeal Colour Challenge week 3

2010-08-16T19:17:00.000+10:00

For this challenge you can choose any colour - but you must only use that colour and 1 neutral.

You can use as many shades of that colour as you wish.

This was the challenge set this week for the Helping Hudson Appeal. I decided to do something a bit different this week, so went for a scrapbook layout. I have been dying to scrap these photos of my Great-Niece Alirah. Isn't she just so cute!!!

Anyway, this is what I came up with.

A Worthwhile Challenge!!

2010-08-16T12:58:00.000+10:00

Colleen this week has set a challenge over on Crafters Anonymous. The challenge was to recycle or re-do something that you had done before and either were not happy with, or it didn't quite go right for you.

This was absolutely perfect for me, as I had a project sitting in my cupboard that was one of those "gone wrong somewhere" projects. It had started out to be a bag in a box, but somehow it just wasn't coming right! Into the cupboard it went and there I thought it would remain till it was relegated to the bin! Until this challenge that is!!

So, out it came, and now in it's new life, it is these two cute as little bags!!

Aren't these just too cute!! These are going to be for gift cards for my Daughter's-In-Law, just a little extra something to add to their birthday cards. :-)

Sunday's Crafting Project..

2010-08-15T11:37:00.001+10:00

Today's project over on Crafters Anonymous is this cute little box.

This is not my original idea, in fact I have no idea where it came from originally but I found it here on Paula Dobson's site.

I had so much fun creating these cute little boxes! The Soft Suede one is going to be a special gift box for my hubby for Father's Day!

A touch of Magic!

2010-08-12T16:44:00.000+10:00

On Crafters Anonymous, our very first challenge was to create our own "Magic Wand" to help us all with our ability to create. Well, this was my version. Considering I had every intention of doing a golden wand, it couldn't really be further from how I originally intended!! A bit like most of my creations actually. :-)

Helping Hudson Appeal - 3-D Challenge

2010-08-10T13:06:00.000+10:00

Helping Hudson Appeal 3-D Challenge

Over at the Helping Hudson Appeal, this weeks Challenges are proving to be very unique and interesting. This was we had to recreate this week, and following the stunning examples already presented, I decided to go with something a little bit simpler.

Here is my entry:

Helping Hudson Appeal - Colour challenge #2

2010-08-09T06:45:00.000+10:00

Colour Challenge for Helping Hudson Appeal

This was the colour challenge set for this week on the Helping Hudson Appeal site. I absolutely ADORE those colours! So, this was my entry.

Farewell to Swap Sisters!!

2010-08-07T10:13:00.000+10:00

As you will have seen from my Blog, I Have been involved in the Swap Sisters site created by Sue Denning as a Design Team Members for the past few months. I have to say this has been the highlight of my crafting career to date! I have so much to thank Swap Sisters for and especially the fantastic team members, Sue Denning, Melissa Davies, Sheri Lee and Tia Routledge. They have all been so supportive, helpful, friendly and caring from day one!

It is with much sadness that the site has now closed. I for one am going to mourn the loss of a very special place, and the wonderful, friendly and caring members who came along week after week to share with us all.

One of my roles was to do an online Punch Art class. This has been so much fun! I had no experience at doing punch art before I began, so I owe this new "talent" to Swap Sisters also.

Above is the final class I did for Swap Sisters. It was my own design of our Logo, the Swap Sister's Owl. Rather a fitting final class I thought!!

So, to all my Swap Sisters out there in blogland, I say a huge THANK YOU for the love, caring and support you have all shown to me and my fellow team members. To my Swap Sisters team members, love you all!!!

I am sure as one door closes, another door will open! Au Revoir my friends!!

Helping Hudson Appeal

2010-08-04T17:35:00.000+10:00

For the first week of challenges for the Helping Hudson Appeal, I have done two of the three.

The first one is using a sketch. This is my card from that sketch:

The second one was a colour challenge, so I went with this one for that challenge:

This next one, is my punch art idea I donated to the Hudson Appeal. It's a Punch Art Guardian Angel! Just what Hudson needs to watch over him.
I am sending all my love and wishes to Hudson and his family in the sincere hope that this appeal gets what is so desperately needed for that brave little man. :-)

Time to start thinking of Father's Day!

2010-07-31T08:39:00.000+10:00

In New Zealand and Australia, we celebrate Father's Day in September. I like to make a card for my husband each year and one from my boys to their Dad. I also do one for my Step-Father, so I really do need to make a start.
This is the first of my Fathers Day cards this year. I LOVE the new Autumn Days stamp set from Stampin' Up! it gives a lovely alternative to the usual boats, cars or golf cards that are usually available for Dad's.

Top Note Die Product Challenge...

2010-07-24T16:17:00.000+10:00

Over on Swap Sisters this weekend, they are hosting a Product Challenge which features the Top Note Die.

Swap Sisters!

For this challenge, I chose a card, but you can do any project you like, as long as you include the Top Note Die in it. Looking forward to seeing what everyone chooses to do this weekend.

Mid-Winter challenge...

2010-07-24T15:51:00.000+10:00

I know, this isn't very exciting, but this is my contribution to Crafty Fingers first challenge in quite a while! The theme was Mid-Winter and to be honest, all I could think of was cold and snow! lol.

Just a few Things I have been making...........

2010-07-21T21:13:00.000+10:00

Just having a go at a different technique. This is called "Bargello" and I think its quite neat! It's really simple, cut striped paper into strips (random sizes) and stick them down in a random fashion. It's almost a patchwork effect. This is something I WILL be doing again. :-)

This is a TRIPLE ATC that we had to design on Swap Sisters for Melissa Davies ATC Class. Cute I thought

I saw thes tags online somewhere and just HAD to make them! I recently got the new 2 step bird punch and I am so in love with it! I came up with this mini box to keep the tags in. What a sweet gift to give to someone.

Wednesday Night with Tia....

2010-07-14T17:59:00.000+10:00

Every Wednesday night, via Swap Sisters, Tia Routlidge teaches us a bit more about our blogs and things we can do with it.

I am loving these online classes and thank Tia so much for sharing her knowledge with us.

Tonight, we are learing how to add a Signature to our blogs.

Mini Challenge for fun................ Break out those hard to use stamp sets!!!!

2010-07-14T09:57:00.000+10:00

Over on Swap Sisters Tia and I have another Mini challenge going on. This week's challenge was to get out any of those stamp sets you bought with all good intentions, but have yet to use! For me, it was the Cottage Garden Stamp set, available this month in the Stampin' Up! (c) promotion. I LOVE this stamp set, yet for some reason, just hadn't used it. So my challenge was perfect to get me motivated to have a play!

Now I have actually got it out and inked it up, I am so impressed! I think this just might become one of my favourite stamp sets. :-)

My challenge to YOU, is to take out one of those stamp sets you have yet to ink up, and give it a go!!!

Have fun!!!

Swap Sisters Punch Art...

2010-07-06T20:44:00.001+10:00

Swap Sisters once again was an absolute pleasure tonight. We had fun creating this way too cute car. I always look for things that can be done for Male birthdays (my family being so heavily loaded with Males as it is. lol) so I was thrilled to have the opportunity to come up with this cute project.

This is where I got my idea for the punch art from. Thank you Kim.

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1728828?&cat=500&ppuser=79891

Another thing we started tonight, was our very own punch art journals. The ladies and I have made our own books and now each week we will be adding these projects to the journal. A great resource tool.

Friday Nights Sketch Layout on Swap Sisters...

2010-07-03T20:40:00.000+10:00

Isn't this sketch just wonderful!!! This was the sketch that Sue Denning chose for us to recreate on Swap Sisters yesterday. I just couldn't wait to make a start on it! I knew I was going to use my new Medallion stamp on this layout... it was MADE for it!!!

So, here is what I came up with. I painstakingly cut around the medallions, yes a lot of work, but I just knew this was what I wanted to do for this layout. Worth it??? I think so!

This layout is my newest Great-Nephew who was born last month. Isn't he the sweetest baby you have ever seen!! In this photo he was merely hours old. Babies are so precious aren't they.

Nelly the Elephant........

2010-06-29T18:46:00.000+10:00

Oh dear, now that song is going to be stuck in my head AGAIN!! ;-)

Tonight's punch art on Swap Sisters was a simple one, we created Nelly the Elephant!! As we are focusing on Children this month, I thought this might be a neat project that can be used for either a boy or a girl. Also with the school holidays, it might be nice to have a couple of easier projects that the younger ones can join in on.

If you would like to join in with our online punch art classes, then do come along to Swap Sisters on a Tuesday evening, 7pm NZ (5pm AEST) and again at 9:30pm NZ (7:30pm AEST).

Contact Sue Denning suedenning@bigpond.com for an invite to join Swap Sisters. It is an invite only site.

If you would like to know more about Swap Sisters then please do contact either Sue or myself (brigsyanne@gmail.com ) and we can tell you more about what we have to offer.

Sundays With Sheri on Swap Sisters!!

2010-06-27T20:00:00.000+10:00

Don't you just love this gorgeous wee card? And not just any card either, inside is this magical hidden collapsible box. It's just too darn cute!! The paper I used I was very lucky to be given by my wonderful Swap Sister Sue Denning. It's a part of my gift pack for being a Design Team Member. This is from the Sweet Pea DSP set that was available in USA. I love it!!

What a fantastic giveaway opportunity!! Thank you Scrappingmommy!!!

2010-06-26T14:51:00.000+10:00

http://www.scrappingmommy.com/2010/06/it-is-that-time-again-summer-giveaway.html?showComment=1277527657132_AIe9_BFusHhXkf_IU7QPbF28AK223qXnHB8GG-MITCHTzD-kwwJ1Afs4ZTBR-rmlEXLRsC8qIKM2LhsoXnBJDHL4PvnFuVlHTGcj5tSg1dsi5D-bzsKSbdboHM86Zs7SpGzSzAQw4l6Iml-9TS4nNaK4rjw7PAHTzeYczMzVpVmiviq7SoP4GT71yrZFrFN6wm2MdMrqt9YWoMz27hRaLM6RY0_w7il5WTVH8QrQZOHMFyM0-QLb4CQHo6_F1K_NApBiulcacM0x#c5261268971726313109

Honestly this is an amazing offer. Pop along to Scrappingmommy's site and see for yourself. Wow, a chance to win one of two Cricut cartridges!! Amazing. Thank you so much!!

Tia Teaches us how to Blog...

2010-06-23T18:38:00.000+10:00

Wow, over on Swap Sisters ( http://swapsisters.ning.com/ ) Tia Routledge is teaching us how to blog and keep our blogs updated. So much I had no idea about!

If you want to learn more about blogging, just come along and join the site and each week you will lear new aspects of the blogging world. Such fun!!

Catalogue Case Challenge...

2010-06-16T20:24:00.000+10:00

A couple of days ago, my friend Tia and I were chatting, and I told her that I hadn't really ever CASED a card from any of the catalogues so we decided to challenge each other to come up with a card from one of them. This was my entry. I was actually quite pleased with it, and really enjoyed doing it, so I can guarantee this will NOT be the last time I do this! :-) Thank you Tia for challenging me! It was fun.

It's surprising just how many beautiful projects are throughout the IB&C and the Mini Catalogues. If you are ever stuck for an idea, don't forget to browse through and see what you can find that just may suit your needs.

Swap Sisters Colour Challenge!

2010-06-14T09:13:00.000+10:00

This is the Colour challenge for Swap Sisters for this fortnight. I hope you can join in and show us your take on this challenge.

I wanted to keep my entry simple, so just created two flowers using the faux suede technique and stamped out a punch using the new Cottage Garden stamp set. The grosgrain ribbon is pretty in pink but the lace behind is a non-SU piece I had in my stash.

Swap Sisters Online Classes!

2010-06-09T20:23:00.000+10:00

PAT - Punch Art Tuesday..

On the first Tuesday of the month, I run an online class on Swap Sisters! This week, we came up with these cute little Dinosaurs! Come along each month for the nightly classes for a chance to take part. Drop in and find out what else there is to do on Swap Sisters!

For an invite, please contact me: brigsyanne@gmail.com and I will send you an invitation to become a member.

Stampin' Up! Convention 2010, Sydney. NSW. Australia!!

2010-06-05T18:23:00.001+10:00

These photos were taken at the Stampin' Up! Convention in Sydney where I attended for the very first time. It was an experience and I am so glad I got to go!

One of the highlights was definately meeting up with fellow demonstrators, from New Zealand and from Australia.
Getting to share with all the others in the swaps.
Seeing our first glimpses of whats to come for us in the coming months with Stampin' Up! and most definately the Conference itself!
I feel I learnt a lot, found so much to inspire me and I certainly came away full of enthusiasm and optimism.

If you have never attended a Stampin' Up! Convention previously, I would highly recommend that you plan to be at the next one!! FANTASTIC!!! So plan for Melbourne, Australia, 2011!!

MORE exciting news for me while I was away!!!

2010-06-04T15:35:00.000+10:00

The first week of May, it was announced that I was to become the newest Design Team Member of Swap Sisters! What a buzz!!! I can still hardly believe my luck! Sue Denning is the founder of the group and I was thrilled to meet up with her and co-team Member Melissa Davies, during Convention. I tell you it was amazing! Those two ladies are so very talented, and so very kind and generous! Sue is totally dedicated to her wonderful site, and along with fellow team members Melissa (SAustralia), Sheri (Canada) and Tia ( Qld Australia) they do a phenominal job! The site is exciting, fun, entertaining, educational and most of all helpful!! For anyone who is interested in Stampin' Up! products and projects, then this is the site for you!
http://swapsisters.ning.com/

This is an invitation only site so please do ask for an invitation to become a member.

Above is an example of one of the projects I created on Swap Sisters. There are online classes, challenges, Tutorials, a chat room and so much more!

June, and Winter has arrived!

2010-06-04T15:08:00.000+10:00

Brrrr... well you certainly know it's Winter here in NZ right now! I only arrived back from my Australian trip at 1am this morning, so time to update my blog!

I attended my first ever Stampin' Up! Convention in Sydney last month and all I can say is WOW!!!! What an awesome experience! My advice is to try it at least once! You won't regret it.

I came home with a bag full of goodies! Some gorgeous stamp sets (sorry, you have to wait till September to find out what these beauties are!!) and some fantastic swaps created by other demo's from both Australia and New Zealand! Amazing! As time permits, I will take photos of some and share them with you. Right now though, I will share a photo of MY swap I did to take to Convention.

G'Day, G'Day...

2010-04-28T15:01:00.000+10:00

.. and how ya goin?

Well not long now till I am heading to Australia and for my first ever time at attending Convention! I am so excited! I am looking forward to meeting so many other Demo's from both sides of the ditch. :-)

Last night was my final appearance on Swap Sister's as a Guest Designer. Somehow I thought this project was appropriate!!

Hopefully I will get a chance to update my blog from Australia. If not, I will be back with all my news and excitement about Convention when I return!

Happy Scrapping, and Stamping everyone!! To all the "Mum's", hope you have a lovely Mothers Day next month.

So much fun to be had!!

2010-04-27T12:28:00.000+10:00

I know I keep saying it, but I am LOVING Swap Sisters! What an amazing site, and always something going on.

For the past two weeks, I have had the honour of being a Guest Designer on Swap Sisters, coming up with their Punch Art Challenges on a Tuesday night as a stand in for Melissa Davies. Wow! Talk about fun.

Last week I decided to start with something very simple so we created flowers to put onto projects, with Mother's Day in mind. I was very impressed with the creations that were submitted to the photo gallery.
Here are photos of the two cards I made.

Tonight will be my final night as a Guest Designer on Swap Sisters, so please do come along and join in the fun. Be in with a chance to win some lovely prizes by entering the weekly challenges.
http://swapsisters.ning.com/

Other things happening on the site are: Monday Make-It Nights with Guest Designer Tia Routledge, Wednesday ATC's with Melissa Davies and Sweet Sunday's Scrapbook Sketch challenges with Sue Denning. Friday night is fun and games night, join in the chat for chance to win random prizes in the chat room, and take part in the friendly online quizzes and games. There are also mini projects done during the Friday Frolics evening.

Mothers Day is fast approaching...

2010-04-17T19:34:00.000+10:00

I was delighted when Melissa Davies did this tutorial on the Jewellery Box on Swap Sisters! It was the perfect gift idea for my Mother!

This was the first project I used the new DSP papers Cottage Wall and I absolutely LOVE it! I am very excited about the introduction of the new Rich Razzleberry colour, Mambo Melon and Soft Suede. These colours are certainly going to be very popular I think.

As I am heading away in 2 weeks time, I probably won't be posting again till after I get back from Convention (YES, only a few weeks away now!!!) so I will make this post a lengthier one than I normally do. I am sure you will be pleased about that. ;-)

Once again from Swap Sisters, is this amazing Waterfall Mini Album. Sheri did this tutorial for us and I absolutely LOVE it! Again, this was made with my Mother in mind. I am sure she will love it!

The DSP I used for this project was the Haiku, which is current in the IB&C catalogue.

I hope you enjoy the projects here. I will be back either from Australia with an update, or when I return from Convention.

Sweet Sunday Sketch No. 4..........

2010-04-06T14:47:00.000+10:00

Each Sunday on Swap Sisters, Sue Denning puts up a Sketch for us to recreate. Here is my version of this weeks sketch. I look forward to Sundays, as it is encouraging me to get back into my scrapbooking.

For anyone who would like an invitation to join Swap Sisters, please email me on:

brigsyanne@gmail.com and I will send you out an invitation.

Swap Sisters Colour Challenge this week......

2010-04-06T14:38:00.001+10:00

This weeks Challenge on Swap Sisters was a Colour Challenge set by Melissa. Wow, what a challenge!

To be honest, I struggled!! Using Bold Brights takes some effort. ;-) I ended up doing a pop-up card with wings simply because I needed to do one anyway.

Probably not colours I would use often, but hey, it's a splash of welcome colour on a very cold NZ Autumn day!! :-)

A work in progress...

2010-03-29T16:14:00.000+11:00

Thanks to Swap Sisters, and Tui Nathan, today I created this gorgeous book box and set of cards.
http://swapsisters.ning.com/

I have yet to finish decorating the outside of the box, but couldn't wait to share what I have been working on today with you all. :-)

As you can see, I did have some assistance in the creation of this beautiful project.

Keep watching for updated pictures of the finished project.

Go Green!

2010-03-28T16:18:00.000+11:00

With yesterday being Earth Day, what better time to take on a "recycling" challenge! This week on Swap Sisters, the challenge was to use something you would normally throw in the rubbish, and create something useable with it.

So.... here is my take. It's a mini album created by using 4 empty cores from toilet rolls. I have to add journalling and the photos, but this was such a cute, easy and quick project to put together, I am sure there will be more of these being made in the future!

I just love challenges!

2010-03-27T17:48:00.000+11:00

The one thing I love most about challenges, is that they take me out of my comfort Zone! Also they have helped get me back into the scrapbooking, which I sorely needed to do! I find by entering into the weekly online challenges, that it also helps build my confidence in my own work. If you don't usually take part in online challenges, then I highly recommend them to you. :-) Give them a go, you just never know what might come of it.

Now, speaking of challenges, this is my take on the Swap Sisters Sweet Sunday sketch challenge. I've used some of the "soon-to-be-released" new In-Colour, Rich Razzleberry, along with some of the beautiful new DSP papers called "Cottage Wall" it is such a beautiful pack of papers! There is another sneak-peek of something being released on the 1st April...... look behind the flowers!! It is a die cut, called "Little Leaves". Hmmmm.... die cuts???? I wonder what else will be in the new Mini Catalogue? If you want to find out, contact me and I can send you a copy of the new mini next week. You will NOT be disappointed.

A touch of Vintage...

2010-03-24T14:30:00.000+11:00

ATC storage box.

As I have recently begun making ATC's, this week I decided to put together a box to store my little ATC cards in. I wanted to create a Vintage look (as on Swap Sisters each Monday, we do Vintage cards etc) and this is the result. The lace is tea-dyed. I've used one of my favourite stamp sets from Stampin' Up! called "Fresh Cuts" and sponged around the box using a couple of different coloured inks, all from Stampin' Up!'s fantastic range of colours.

Here is one of the cards produced on Swap Sisters taught to us my Michelle Menser. I'm really getting to like this Vintage style!

Stamp set used was "Dreams De Jour" and the colours were Always Artichoke, Sahara Sand and Kraft.

Ghosting Technique......

2010-03-18T08:23:00.000+11:00

The ghosting technique is achieved by stamping on glossy cardstock with versamark ink. Letting it dry and then using a brayer (or sponging) go over the entire card with an ink of your choice of colour. I chose one of the new In-Colours to be released on 1st April, 2010 called Rich Razzleberry. Such a gorgeous colour! I also used one of the new stamp sets also due for release next month. This is such a lovely technique, and I will be using it again for sure! I hope you like the card I came up with.

Tuesday fun Nights with Melissa!

2010-03-16T17:08:00.000+11:00

Melissa keeps us entertained on Tuesday nights with punch art! We made this cute rabbit and accessories last week. Isn't he just the cutest wee guy!!

This week's punch-art has been postponed until Friday, so do join Swap Sisters to join in the fun!

All products used on this layout are from Stampin' Up! (c)

Welcome to the world Alirah May............

2010-03-16T16:58:00.000+11:00

I did this scrapbook page on Swap Sisters last weekend, where we had a "Virtual Scrapbooking" lesson online with Sue Denning. Talk about fun!! I was so thrilled to be able to use my first photo of my newest Great-Niece, Alirah.

On Wednesday nights we do ATC's. Courtney is our very patient "teacher" on these nights, and she has introduced us to some amazing techniques! Here are my first two ATC's created on Swap Sisters...

A Little Mini Album...

2010-03-16T16:50:00.002+11:00

Who would believe that with just three envelopes, you can create this gorgeous wee album? All it needs now is some photos and some writing on the tags! Perfect gift for that special someone.

To learn how to make this album, and other amazing things, join Swap Sisters. This mini album was taught to us by Michelle. Michelle is doing a virtual online session with us every Monday evening, showing us the beauty of working with Vintage! Oh boy, am I loving this!!
We not only learnt to make this fab album, but we also learnt to create our own Vintage look lace! Doesn't it look amazing!

Swap Sisters Colour Challenge

2010-03-02T13:35:00.000+11:00

This was the colours picked for this weeks SS colour challenge. I wanted to make something other than a card, and as my Nephew's baby arrived yesterday, these colours were PERFECT! Welcome to the world darling little Alirah May Norris, Born 1st March, 2010.

We also had another challenge on Swap Sisters. It was a "Spot Challenge" to alter something so that it could be re-used. In it's past life, this box was the wee box that the Stampin' Up! Sweet Treats cups came in!!

I am going to fill this box with a lovely little item of clothes for my newest Great-Niece.

YOU ARE A WINNER!!!!!

2010-03-02T13:25:00.000+11:00

Today I drew the winner of the free pass for the next round of UStamp with Dawn and Friends using Random.Org. The winner was No. 5!

So...

Paula Dobson, Congratulations!!!

Your free pass will be sent to your email address by Dawn. :-)

Thank you to everyone who left comments on my blog.

FREE PASS!

2010-02-18T13:34:00.002+11:00

Anyone who would like to win a free pass to the next round of UStamp with Dawn & Friends, please leave a comment on my blog and I will randomly draw a name to win a free pass.

Good luck!!

I will pick a winner using Random.Org on the 2nd March, 2010