The Beginning of Things to Come

Cath Collection

2011-11-30T04:26:00.001-08:00

Another frame commission, with Cath Kidston inspired elements at the same time trying to keep it quite girly... I made this card for my inlaws, who at this very minute are in the throws of moving house as I put this on here! I used this Cath Kidston Keyring to inspire the colours and look of the card. I didnt have a stamp that said home seet home so I had to mix and match what I had, by masking off the unwanted areas and inking the word I needed. A resourceful technique to use what you've got!

On the subject of houses... this unusual commission was to celebrate the fact that a couple had lived in their house for 40 years, the picture of their house (on the front) is a scanned image that they used for the invitation to the party.

And on the subject of years... I made this for another commission for a couples sister who turned 80, without knowing it the lady in question enjoys her garden, so it worked out well with the particular tag I used. I do like that saying 'Bloom where you are planted'

Girly & Glittery

2011-10-06T13:23:00.000-07:00

I was asked to make a first birthday card for a girl, now if you dont kow me by now I do like to make alternative girly and boy cards especially for young ones. I wanted to avoid using the Happy Birthday message on here so it could be kept as a keep sake card. I revelled in using lots of lovely bright colours and detail.

I love the look of text across a shape, so I used it to add detail to the butterflies... finishing touches like 3d foam pads to the back of the flowers and some stickles gave it that last minute girly glittery touch!

All Occassions

2011-09-27T07:05:00.000-07:00

Card for the Hubby for our 9th Wedding Anniversary yesterday :) Commission for a baby's dedication, something simple to incorporate name, text and occasion...

Frame made for a Ruby wedding Anniversary (40 years)...

Frame for a newly wedded couple, incorporating their wedding colours...A frame for a young girl, complete with bible text...

Birds and Bridgewater

2011-09-27T06:41:00.000-07:00

I like to think simple, but effective... card made for my inlaws wedding anniversary
Using this Emma Bridgewater vanity case I bought for a friends birthday, I took inspiration to make a card and matching wrapping paper to complete the polka dot theme.Like my Stampin Up bird punch, my owl has begun to feature quite a bit in my cards...Here are some more cards I have made recently...The background paper on the left was made by me! Using yet more Stampin Up products (thanks to a recent birthday....) I love the Cath Kidstonesk look it gives, looking forward to playing with these stamps some more..

Birds, Branches & Bookmarks

2011-09-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

Commissioned bookmarks, one for a golden anniversary, a special birthday and another for a young girls birthday. The bookmarks slip out of the front so they can be used afterwards and personalised with a message on both sides.

Some cards featuring trees or branches, give and take some poetic liscence!...

Been enjoying some Stampin Up goodies lately... the bird punch is easy to use with some great results, I'm always amazed at the different looks that can be achieved with the same punch or stamp by just using different papers of colours!

Long time, no see....

2011-09-26T12:20:00.000-07:00

It's about time I got back to my blog!... time gets taken up... but enough of the excuses, here is a good few pics to keep you going... An alternative baby girl card, done for a commission.

This was a commission for a wedding card, the touch of pearls and lace help to create that wedding feel.

Another commission, for a cricket enthusiast Pastor, who owns a dog!

A small card using some basic grey off cuts and the trusty Martha Stewart dove punch- love it!
For my Father in laws birthday (way back in March), affectionately known as 'Dads'

Ahead for April.. (or not as the case was...)

2011-03-31T08:05:00.000-07:00

Last month I was a bit last minute.com so I thought I would stay up to speed by making sure I had something ready for April, but yet again I'm just a bit behind, I had got caught up with the royal festivities!

Here are the cards I did for the 2 lovely ladies in my life; my 'Mummy' and 'Mums' for Mothers Day...

We were invited to attend a garden Party on the 29th April and we had to take some food along with us. So I decided to try out my new giant cupcake mould and made this! It took a lot of ingredients, time and energy! But went down well at the party. Thankfully the butter icing covered any mistakes! Each of the union jack hearts were made by my fair hand :)

March Mayhem...

2011-03-31T07:51:00.000-07:00

Just in the nick of time for posting in March! I couldn't have my new years resolution broken 3 months in could I. Here are a few pieces from this month...I had a couple of frame commissions to do. One was to complete a set for a lady who kept her sleepy baby photos in. Using quickutz for the lettering and the gorgeous Martha Stewart dove punch to add detail. I am really getting into making alternative baby cards at the moment, partly because the ones in the shop are usually the same blue or pink colours, but also by making something different your card can stand out from the crowd. I used 'Eliza' quickutz Capital letters for the names

First of Feb

2011-02-01T12:17:00.000-08:00

So far so good... my new years resolution of posting once a month is paying off so far. Here is the second instalment for the year. A commission for a friend, who wanted me to incorporate a young ladies interests, with a modern twist and a Cath Kidston element. The inky edges on the white stripes started out as an accident, so to cover up my misake I carried on! Think it brings a cool dimension to the card!

Long Time No See...

2011-01-04T12:33:00.001-08:00

Well, well, well, it has been sometime. But my resolution for this year is to try and blog (at least) once a month. So where have I been? Well been around, but busy having my second son last september :)

I was recently asked to make a commissioned card for an engagement to include the couples name, a bible text and the date.

So I decided to do something a bit different for the date by finding the digits in different papers. So that you get 25.12.10

Same but Different

2009-11-13T06:15:00.000-08:00

It all started with making my card for this week's SALT challenge...The theme was taken form Psalm 46:1 "Be still and know that I am God". Lythan writes in her blurb 'I need to know that I am not on my own in all of this - that I can rest in God and he will give me strength. I wish I could follow Desmond Tutu's advice “I am far too busy to pray for less than two hours a day” I certainly need this time to reflect and create and be still with God'. I found this verse that I had stamped form my sister in lawscollection and used it to make this card.

I love the colours from these K&Co papers (the name escapes me...) and while I had the bits and pieces out I went on to make this birthday card. I was showing a friend the other day how to do heat embossing, it reminded me of how I used to almost , always stamp and heat emboss! As I still have lots of powders I decided to add it to this card. (although it isn't very clear from the photo....)

I love the way you can start with some co-ordinating papers, and then use the scraps to make such different cards with the same 'feel'. Trying to pick up my old habbit of using scraps while I have them out on the table, rather than to keep saving them, only just to pile up!

Mae-de for Mae

2009-11-11T06:29:00.000-08:00

I have a new neice! Her name is Mae (pronouced May), and this is the card I made for her...

I used dymo labels to add the names of the family around the fabric flower, and stuck some mini butterflies to add effect to the feather (as my sister is likes butterflies!). My inspiration started with the wooden fabric heart and the scalloped paper and I built on that, but then I had trouble completing the card, thats where my trusty quickutz swirls came in!

Helping Hand

2009-11-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

My sister in law is having a craft day to raise some money for a charity called Caring For Life, I made up some felt flower corsage kits to make your own, for her to sell. I thought they would make ideal stocking fillers, or Christmas presents.A friend of mine is organising a baby shower for her sister in law. I made this fimo cake topper for her so that she could have it as a keepsake. It was my first attempt at making something like this and was a bit time consuming, but very enjoyable. Don't look to closely or else you will see some faults! Very difficult not getting fingernail marks and scratches into the fimo (modelling clay) when it is soft!

I dont know if you have seen these before? It is called a nappy cake, made up of nappies, breast pads, scratch mits, socks, cotton buds and hidden inside is a music box, which the duck on the top sits on. We completed it with ribbon, and I added a few finishing touches to bring the colour together, some flowers and feathers!

Like Mother like Son?...

2009-11-10T06:48:00.001-08:00

One morning we woke up to my son's attempt at cake making.... The results may look lovely, but this is a result of letting a 4 1/2 year old loose at candles and sprinkles, this is only part of the mess! The other cake attenpt that he tried was to try and make cake using dried milk powder and milk, with icing...!!!!

And these are some that I made....

Graduated Growth

2009-09-30T14:35:00.000-07:00

My turn for the Salt Challenge this week. It came to me almost in a flash, whilst trying to think of a topic. I came up with the word 'Growth' I was thinking along the lines of seeds and how from a small seed comes a tree (been watching a bug's life!) but also about spiritual growth, and how it needs to be worked at. How we grow and learn through testing times. I loved the broadness of the subject, and am excited to see what the design team will achieve and interpret with it! Used a mixture of varieties of Tapestry stamps and similar ones, to create a graduated growth picture, with the verse 'But grow in grace of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory for ever and forever! Amen. 2 Peter 3:18. I offset the word 'growth' to create a shadow effect and 3d mounted the letters, added some prima flowers to complete.

Choccy Cakes!

2009-09-29T05:39:00.000-07:00

These chocolate cakes were made under extreme circumstances- as the electricity went in the middle of cooking them! Argh! thankfully they managed to cook in the heat of the oven.

I recently bought some new sprinkles, and wanted to test out my new mini star cutter (another b'day pressie) and my fabby new piping bag! (again another pressie). By the time I put the butter icing on, it had gone a bit loose due to the butter softening so much, but everyone was kind and said they couldnt tell! But you know when things dont turn out just how you want them...

These little gems are made from beetroot! Yep beetroot and chocolate cake, they are very moist and yummy! My mum gave me the recipe, although it is meant for a big cake I thought I would try them out as cupcakes. They are a gorgeous rich maroon colour. I added the hearts for a touch of pazazz!

Beloved Bird

2009-09-29T05:24:00.000-07:00

One of my sisters went to america, and rather than buying me a 'lousy t-shirt' brought back a Martha Stewart Dove punch that I had my eye on! I love it, it is such a great little creature to fill those gaps, and makes a change from using butterflies (my other trusty punch!). I created these 2 cards.
This first was for a friend, a card with a meaning, I used elements of the card to potray her life. The 3 buttons to the bottom right represent her children, the word joyful expressed her, the tag shape, because she used some tags at her party so we knew who's glass was who's. The 2 love birds was her and her husband, and the gingham ribbon to represent the school uniform that our children go to. The strap was from a broken watch that I found on the floor!

You now when time flies... and dates spring upon you! Well my inlaws had there wedding anniversary recently, so I knocked together this card using yes! My birdy punch, and some die cut shapes my sister in law gave me for my birthday, the memories label blended a bit better in colour in real life! I liked the simplicity of this card, and might well make soem more like it!

Alternative Alterations

2009-08-16T07:03:00.000-07:00

I think when you make an alternative card, especially a baby card, it tends to stand out from the usual blues, pinks and yellows. I liked the idea of using notepaper, but never done it before, so this was the start of the inspiration to this card. I used some bright pink felt flowers and filled with buttons, added brownsand turqouise and it all came together in the end!

I was admiring a brooch on a ladies bag, when she went on to tell me it was made from a zip! It was so effective, and looked like it was colured stitching rather than part of a metal zip. Inspired I looked through the internet to see if I could find a pattern, but to no avail. Instead I found a few other designs. Combining the ideas, this was my first effort maknig a zip brooch, with locally charity shop sorced zips!

Home Improvements

2009-08-14T13:10:00.000-07:00

Recently made this card inspired by the paper (by Papermania- me thinks?) which had this gorgeous chair design, and an idea form a craft magazine, but adapted it to suit. Ideal for a new home card, retirement or that sort of thing. I had fun making the details, like the picture frame and the lamp. The photo doesnt show up that some of the furniture is stuck on 3d to give it a better effect.

A sponge cake I made for my husband's Grandad who turned 85 recently. Just something simple...Note to self- invest in some brown food colouring! I had to use cocoa powder to achieve the colour for the bird.

End of an Era

2009-07-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

My son finished at nursery last friday :( I made a window cling (nearly A4 size) for the nursery and made a frame each for the teachers. Seems strange to come to the end of an era only to start a new one at school! But thats life! Oh the joys of labelling everything....

SALT & Sugar!

2009-07-13T06:34:00.000-07:00

This card I made for the SALT CHALLENGE, the general topic is on prayer, but please read the blurb on the site for more detail. I must admit I was stuck for inspiration until I noticed another person on the design team had used this verse, and I happened to have the same one in a clear sticker! I finally bought myself a pricking tool which I used for the faux stitching around the edge, and some new papers I picked up in a sale.
Some cupcakes I made recently for my son's nursery cake sale. My cards seem to be put on the shelf for the time being whilst I take up my new hobbie of cake decorating! Although I do come back to it now and again. Thanks to my sister Ruth, who gave me the tip on using paper punches on rice paper to make the butterflies! Forever in your debt! Thanks!

Frames for Friends

2009-07-03T06:29:00.000-07:00

Here are some recent frames I did for commissions for some friends. I really enjoyed doing the black and white one, especially as it came out how I wanted! The idea behind it was old fashioned movies, hence the black and white feather and bling! The verse inside is Psalm 121, and was given to a young lady on the occasion of her baptism.This frame was for a couple's wedding anniversary, think it may have been 25 years- hence the touch of silver!

This frame was for twins, I wanted something that would be suitable for both the boy and girl without going down the blue and pink route.

Loving Lawrence

2009-06-10T08:32:00.000-07:00

Using some newly accuired Larence Lewellyn Bowen papers, I came up with these... Card for My father in law's Birthday, with an image of his car that he is going to get...

A bright cheery card for my mum's birthday, inspired by the colurs from the papers, I like the detail of the hummingbird charm- can you spot it?!

This card is for the SALT challenge, here is the blurb 'I have chosen to focus on one element of the Spirit's work - the community of faith. In Acts 2:42-47 Luke describes the amazing first congregation and how they share their lives together totally. It is quite something to try and live up to. How do we become Acts 2 communities today? I also thought about Matthew 18:20 (where two or three are gathered in my name there I am in the midst of them). Being a Minister I feel I have to point out that this reading is not just a reminder of Jesus being with us when there are just a few of us there, but that the context is actually when people are falling out and how to deal with it - but that is part of being a community of faith too. Community of faith could be a church, a group, your family, your area. You may want to focus on the highs or lows of trying to be the people together that Jesus has called us to be. I'll leave it to you and the Spirit to mull over as you create with'. So with 'Matthew 18:20' in mind I used the Unique BG stamp and hero arts Family definition stamp. Gold foil from an easter egg, and LLB paper for the centre.

Sufficient to Strengthen

2009-05-15T06:36:00.000-07:00

The SALT challenges of late, have been a challenge and more importantly an encouragement! Challenging in the sense that God really does speak through His word (the Bible). The challenges seem so appropriate to situations I go through. This weeks card was made for a specific couple in mind. When we go through trials, it seems that more struggles are piled on to us, but this verse teaches that through our suffering God's undeserved love shines through, and is enough to get us through, if only we lean and trust in HIM!!!

Here is the blurb 'the topic for this week and I chose God's Strength based on 2 Corinthians 12:9 "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." It seems lately that I have been made aware of so many people going through so many difficult trials, serious illnesses/injuries, financial strains, marital stress, loss of loved ones, and more. It's often easy for us to begin to question God's purposes and worry or despair. In this chapter of Corinthians, we see the example of the apostle Paul, how he prayed 3 times for God to remove a "thorn in the flesh" (we are not told what it was). God's answer should be our encouragement and comfort as it was Paul's! "My grace is sufficient for you."Matthew Henry in his commentary on this chapter states that "Grace signifies . . . The good-will of God towards us, and this is enough to enlighten and enliven us, sufficient to strengthen and comfort us, to support our souls and cheer up our spirits, in all afflictions and distresses. . . . Christ Jesus understands our case, and knows our need, and will proportion the remedy to our malady, and not only strengthen us, but glorify himself."

Please visit SALT and if you dont feel like you can take part at least enjoy the creativity of the design team and their artwork.

'Try something new today'

2009-04-30T15:48:00.000-07:00

Although I subscribe to a craft magazine, I cant say that I tend to get a lot from it.... silly I know, Ishould really cancel the subscription. But while looking for inspiration I came across a card with these torn flowers on, I have seen them before, but never tried it for myself; until now! I tore the circles without the aid of any puches (I dont know if that is what you are supposed to do?) using some co-ordinating coloured off cuts and found some small buttons for the centre. I used the edge of my teweezers to create the piercing effect for the faux stitching and used pencil for the lines. I was pleased with the results, and hope to make some more of those flowers!

A serious case of....

2009-04-30T15:24:00.000-07:00

A serious case of... blog neglection! Life seems to be full of one thing and another, and I am finally finding myself at nearly 11.30pm loading photos on my blog, never the less here I am! I have quickly knocked together this weeks SALT challenge of PERSERVERANCE, Here is some of the blurb for the challenge ''perseverance' is based on Hebrews 12:1 'Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.'I am so encouraged that, although we are urged to persevere, the race is 'marked out for us', so we can rest assured that the plans for our lives are in God's hands. However, we must do our part and 'throw off everything that hinders' and keep on track with Him...If we are to run the race well, we need to get rid of those things in our lives that would hold us back from going God's way.Sometimes it is hard to persevere - when circumstances are such that life is difficult - but I believe that the key to our perseverance is in the next verse of Hebrews 12, where the writer says: 'Let us fix our eyes on Jesus.'

I was pleased to find the photo I was looking for of this pair of my dads shoes, along size my nephews ones when he was small, which helped me with the colour scheme of the layout.

Easter, Explained...

2009-04-02T07:56:00.001-07:00

It was my turn to set the challenge this week at SALT. This is what the blurb says (for worry that I will only repeat myslf..) I don't know about you, but this year is flying by! Everyone seems as busy as ever, and EASTER is fast approaching! So that brings me (Esther) neatly on to the subject for this week...'The real meaning of Easter' how easy it is to get caught up in the commercial side of Easter, without reflecting on why as Christians we celebrate it. God sent his one and only Son Jesus to die on the cross to take away our sin and the punishment we so deserve. He died, and yet even death had no power over him, Christ rose victorious and is alive for ever more! If you put your trust in God and believe that he died to take away your sin you also may experience new life in Christ. This was a real challenge for us as a design team, do let us know how you get on. DONT FORGET WE ARE NOW POSTING EVERY THURSDAY!

I really struggled with this callenge-even though I was the one to set it! Perhaps it was to broad a subject?... My first card, I was just not happy with, the desired effect was not how I wnted it to look. So I pressed on and came across this scrap of urban lily paper. I thought the butterfly image was just waht I needed to express new life in Christ, and through his dying on the cross was what makes it all possible!

Yummy Mummy's!

2009-03-27T07:29:00.000-07:00

These are the cards I made for Mothers Day, taking advantage of my new Magnolia stamps. This card I added 3d foam to make certain bits stand out so it really looked like she was sitting on a swing!

This card is for my parents wedding anniversary coming up on Monday- 35 whole years! Praise God! Using the theme of Coral and the 2S4U sketch I came up with this card.... I added real coral beads in the centre of the flowers for some authenticity!

Be Still... Book

2009-03-19T03:12:00.000-07:00

My sister Ruth's turn to take up the topic for this week's SALT challenge, some very moving and poignant words said in her blurb about 'SERENITY'. Do go and read it! In my contribution this week I wanted to make a prayer journal. I know I am for ever failing to spend time with God in prayer, and so I thought if I created a journal it might help me to be more disciplined.

The thought behind the front cover was that in the hustle and the bustle of life, we must have God in the centre, and find time to BE STILL! SO that we recognise and come to know God for who He is. The Almighty and Wonderful Creator!

Extra, Extra, Read all about it!

2009-03-14T01:42:00.000-07:00

Our new designers on SALT are finally on board! Welcome to you all! Great news also, we are going to be posting EVERY THURSDAY!

Here is the blurb for the extra challenge for today!
Today we have an extra special treat as our challenge is being sponsored by A Faith Perspective. I got to know Anne at AFP after she sweetly choose my blog as a featured blog of the week a few months ago. Since that time Anne has frequented the SALT blog and highlighted the work of most of the members from our original team on AFP. Anne's commitment to sharing her faith and promoting other faith-based designers, blogs, and galleries through AFP and Scrapbook News & Reviews, an online, subscription-based publication, has been a real blessing to me and the SALT team. With those thoughts in mind, the SALT team wanted to throw out a friendship challenge for this weekend! The scripture verse that came to mind when I was thinking about this challenge was Proverbs 18:24, "A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." My study Bible has these comments on this passage, "...the contrast seems to be between two kids of companions; those whose friendship is superficial and who cause trouble, and the rare friend who is as loyal as a brother."

As soon as I heard the topic, I had an idea in mind, that just kept on developing. Iused my recently aquired BG stickers, exisiting stamp bit of bling, and creasted this window card with ATC's

Even if you are not inclined to take part please have a look at the great work that everyone has put in, we would love to have your support. Please feel free to join in too!

Busy Birthday's

2009-03-12T03:40:00.000-07:00

Tis the Birthday season! My sister in law, my son, and a fiend all within the space of a week... Went for a vintage look as I know my sister in law likes things like pride and prejudice and vintage looking things.

I made this card for my son, along with he cake I made and which I am rather proud of. Then used the left overs to make some miniature marzipan fruit, which I gave to my sons nursery teacher who leant me some red food colouring!

A sunny yellow card for a happy 10 year old girl.

New Life, New Design Team!

2009-03-05T00:34:00.000-08:00

The SALT challenge this week is 'NEW LIFE'. Watch this sace for new design team members- to be announced very soon! I had a lot of difficulty trying to find the photos I wanted to use for my layout, and then I couldnt find the scan pictures of when my boy was a baby... :( But thank God that all things wortk together for good! I managed to get something done, just different to what I intention. So here is a picture of my son at 2 months old- He will be 4 this sunday!!! The miracle of new life in a child is amazing, and another wonderful miracle is when you come to have a personal faith and understanding with God. Like the journaling says, our prayer for our son and our family is that they will come to know God as their heavenly Father, and trust that Jesus came to die on the cross for their own sins. Do you know newness of life in Christ?

It's a Sacrifice

2009-02-20T11:07:00.000-08:00

I got delayed on the Salt challenge this week! So many cards to make at the moment....do you here me complaining?.... The challenge topic was 'Sacrifice' The blurb is on the website. It is a real mind blower to think that God gave us the amazing sacrifice of His one and only son- CAN YOU IMAGINE?! Not only giving up your only child, but to give it up for a world of sinners, like me and you! Praise the Lord that through his sacrifice on the cross, our sins can be forgiven and a place will be waiting for us in heaven! I used my new Basic Grey stash to make the card, came just in time :)
My friend and her husband share the same birthday! Amazing! She loves the bird image and bright colours, although it may not look lik it that card took me ages. I lacked inspiration at the time, quite opposite to her husbands card who I have often said has a 'gothic' taste, hence the black with a touch of classy cream.

Romantic Red

2009-02-19T05:20:00.000-08:00

Based on the bonus sketch for the 2S4Y. This was done for a recent commission for a Ruby Wedding Anniversary, I found that the finishing touches, helped complete the card.

This is a bit belated, my sons card that we made for his 'Valentine'! He wanted to add the black glitter, which I thought added a good contrast :)

This is the card I made for my hubby using recent photos I took of hearts in the snow. Wanted something simple and mascuine, but romantic.

Pretty in Pink

2009-02-11T06:44:00.001-08:00

Made this card for a friend of mine who has just had a baby. USed my Heidi Swapp 'Precious' stamp, QK lettering and swirls, good ole prima flowers! And I think the paperis TLC.

And a card for the Grandparents too! Love the idea of a Grandparents card :) this is the first one I have made. Bling detail by the word Grand Daughter-(which the photo doesnt show up!)

Twice on a Tuesday

2009-02-11T06:15:00.000-08:00

Managed to complete a couple of challenges yesterday. Was getting stuck in with bold colours. I needed to make a Thank you card for a Auntie and Uncle of mine, so that was great timing when I noticed the Cardalicious challenge; to use pink, stitching and felt on a thankyou card. Was a bit tricky to get the scalloped rectangel, but manged in the end.... The heart and swirl is made from felt using the QK Revolution (and the photo corners), and sentimented printed from computer.

And here is the card I made for teh 2S4U sketch. Thought the bling might help bring it to life! Papers and stamp by Anna Griffin, ribbon from stash

Country Bumpkin

2009-02-05T02:50:00.000-08:00

This week's SALT callenge is set by Hazel the topic being 'Discipleship' here is the blurb 'Jesus’ disciples were called by Him and became His followers. Jesus final command to them ‘Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’ (Matthew 28:19-20)When we become Christians we are not only saved by His grace, but also become Christ’s followers, to learn of Him to seek to live a life that reflects obedience. In John 15, Jesus said that His disciples should bear much fruit and show love one for the other. This may seem a tough call, but in Galatians 5 Paul talks of the fruit of the Spirit, so it is in His power that we can bear fruit and become more like our Saviour who we follow. Christian discipleship involves following Christ and learning from Him – a lifetime’s journey. If you look to the right, you will see that as part of the SALT team each of us wishes to know Jesus more clearly, love Him more dearly and follow Him more nearly, each and every day.'

I had a good ferwe calendars to use up, and that glittery heart had been sitting around for some time so thought I would pu it to good use, it became the inspiration for the project. Used this verse as a reminder that we must show love to one another- all year round! You ty and out it into practice TODAY. Salt are calling out for new design team members so please visit the blog is you are interested. Follow this link

Have a Heart

2009-02-02T07:34:00.000-08:00

Was asked to do a commission recenty for a ladies 40th birthday. I had free reign except to incorporate hearts. Could'nt wait to get stuck in to this one. Can you spot all the hearts? Tried not to over do it but at the same time make sure they were incorporated. Dont seem to get on the computer much these days, let alone blog!! Been busy doing some shop orders, so that's taking up most of my time at the moment. Will post pics of that when I am done. Oh some snow pics to show you also, not a lot of snow but enough to make me happy! :)

First time for everything...

2009-01-23T09:03:00.000-08:00

My first card for Card-A-Licious, a nice recipe challange of a circle, a flower and something sparkly, so out came my bottle of -Oh whats it called...?! Any way.. I enjoyed the chance of using some of my new Melissa Frances paper and stikers that my sister sent me :) combined with a few bits form my stash.

I always seem to fall behind with the DI Hickman skecth, this card was based on the last card design. Again experimenting with new cosmo cricket paper- thanks Ruth!

And this was a quick knocked up card using someof the scraps...

Mercy Me

2009-01-22T02:40:00.000-08:00

My turn setting the SALT challenge this week. I chose the topic of Mercy.

I have been reading through the book of Judges recently, and have been struck by the way God is so merciful to his people despite their continued sin. The people of Isreal; time after time turned away from God and turned back to their old waya of sinning- does tha remind you of anyone? Yet despite their actions God still showed MERCY! God remains merciful to his people in so many ways.

I used cosmo cricket papers and primas with stick on pearls.

Swimming Success!

2009-01-15T03:14:00.000-08:00

This card was made for for a lady's mum who is turning 80, and likes to swim in the sea if she can during the summer! Amazing! She also likes freesia's, poetry and classical literature- hence the script writig at the bottom. I used the freesia colours for inspiration.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-08T03:11:00.000-08:00

It feels like an age since I have updated my blog!... I have enjoyed a wonderful relaxing Christmas break, and new year and feeling refreshed. Managed toclear my craft table to start the new year! And I kick off with the first SALT challenge of 'SELF CONTROL' surely something we can all learn from! Here is the blurb "When I was setting the theme a few weeks ago I was realising how little patience I can have with those nearest to me. It is frustrating that in some areas of my life I can be very `on top' of things, yet in others seem to lack SELF CONTROL. This is serious, as one of the fruits of the spirit - the outworking of LOVE - is SELF CONTROL.So as I have been meditating on this theme I've been thinking about what helps me control my reactions when under preassure, my tongue and my body. Ultimately a closer walk with the Lord and a life led by LOVE and HOPE in Christ will help me be more SELF CONTROLLED.As always I am humbled that I alone can not achieve this. It is only because of what Jesus did for me on the cross and the righteousness HE gives that enables me to even start on the road of renewal." The verse I used is from Titus 2:11-12 which reads For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. I have been dwelling on the topic of self control, and it amazed me at how many areas it covers in our lives! Oh for God's strength in time of temptation and for more self control in ALL areas of our life.

"O Holy Night"

2008-12-12T03:27:00.002-08:00

Salt Challenge this week is 'O Holy Night', here is the blurb 'it is almost here.the most wonderful time of the year.not just because of the presents and the food and the family time - fun though they are. But because, on this most holy of nights, God comes to us as one of us. Amazing love.' I incorporated the lyrics into my card, using royal purple and touches of gold. This was just one of those cards I kept adding too! Please do look at the lovely design teams contributions, hard work and effort is put in, it is a shame not more people come and see.

Fabric Flowers

2008-12-12T03:27:00.001-08:00

Do you remember I said that although I had been busy I was still crafting? well... these are what I have been making. I stumbled across a pattern on the internet and have been merrily making these flower brooches, they are great Christmas sellers too. Most o them are made from off cuts and fabrioc remnants or samples, some out of felt, with buttons for the centre.

I made these for my son's nursery teachers, incorporating colours that I thought would suit them.

This is a better photo....some more recent ones

Back to the Drawing Board

2008-12-12T03:27:00.000-08:00

So nice to have a bit of time to sit back at my craft table! Just managed to sneak in making a couple of cards, it was either that or washing up... Hmmm.... let me think?!!!! My overdue Salt challenge, I knocked up this card for last week's topic of 'God is Good', so i used black, red and off white- something bold that gets the message across!

This card is for my Mother in Laws up and coming birthday oh- tomorrow infact! The pearl centres of the flower are to tie in with her present :)

Busy Bee

2008-12-08T15:59:00.000-08:00

I am still here! just not here on my blog! Been super busy, hope to come back to blog land soon!

Blue Birds

2008-11-20T15:05:00.000-08:00

Keep meaning to load these photos....

The cut out paper is 3d mounted for extra effect!

The second card I used the scraps to make a card for the Daring Card Makers challenge of 'birds'. They are fashionable in the crafting world but can be so versatile, so far I havent tired of my little bird stamps! I used the gorgeous K&Co wild saffron papers, and stuck with the brown and turqouise colour scheme.

Comfort in Christ

2008-11-20T06:28:00.001-08:00

This week's SALT challenge "Comfort in Suffering" Suffering in this life is unavoidable but through Christ we have great reason to rejoice, in good times and bad. We can rest in knowing that God has a sovereign purpose both in our troubles and in the comfort that He gives us in them. The theme around my layout is the idea of 'home comforts' so warm textures and a homely feel, I wanted to keep it simple, so that the words, and picture would say it all. The picture is of my son walking under a near by railway bridge, I liked the composition and lighting and thought it highlighted the text that I wanted to use for the layout Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the vally of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me, your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Complete Commissions

2008-11-18T14:08:00.000-08:00

Feel as if I have been away from my blog for a while, been desperate to get back! But I seem bogged down with other things are the moment, so thought I would share a few recent commissions with you; all slightly different- to keep me on my toes!

12 x 12 Frame for a friend's dad who was celebrating a special birthday, using photos of the family and words which had special meanings. Thanks to Ruth for your craft robo!

A wedding card, which incorporated the wedding colours, this was supposed to be a quirky card- but I dont easily do quirky, so tried to go for a slightly modern feel....?!

I was asked to make 2 books using photos of a school extension and incorporate the childrens drawings and writing. Both reciptitants (woops! recipient I mean- thans for your comment ruth!) would be male- so I avoided the floral route!

Sparkling Snowflake

2008-11-11T08:14:00.000-08:00

(the snowflake was 3d mounted - was trying to get that across in this photo!)

Inspired by a recent magazine article about glitter, and with the DCM challenge of 'sparkle and bling' I got out my lovely snowflake stamp- and decorated!!! After I made it I couldn't easily find matchin papers, so walked away and came back to it another day. Finally decided that I would use my trusting ink pad to colour instead, beacuse the snowflake was sobold I didnt want to detract from it- ok am I waffling? let me stop.... :)

Scrap Suprise!

2008-11-07T03:22:00.000-08:00

(using felt swirls from my QK)

(my swing card! sentiment swings- not lob sided!)

Whilst attempting to clear my craft table, I decided to make some cards along the way, using whatever bits and bobs I had on my table! This way you not only use up those tip bits (rather than storing them away for a rainy day...) but you end up putting things together that you may not usually!

Why dont you give it a go?- leave me a comment and let me see what you come up with! You might amaze yourself at the results- I know I was!

And here are some cakes I made for a friends baby shower- all thanks to Ruth for her inspirational use of using punches on coloured rice paper!!!

Hazel's Hope

2008-11-05T08:40:00.000-08:00

Hazel set the challenge this week for SALT on the topic of HOPE, here is her blurb "We are living in uncertain times, so it's understandable if folk feel that there is no hope. As Christians, we have hope because of what Jesus did for us at Calvary. This hope isn't an airy-fairy 'maybe' for the future, but it is a certainty that we can claim now. In our church we have recently been privileged to hear a series of sermons on hope, which is what prompted me to choose this topic now. On Sunday we sang the song which is on my LO, which I feel sums up our Christian hope: Our confidence is in the Lord The source of our salvation Rest is found in Him alone The Author of creation We will not fear the evil day Because we have a refuge In every circumstance we say Our hope is built on Jesus The verse from Hebrews 6:19 says it much better than I could: 'We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.' We pray that you may have the joy of experiencing this hope for yourself. We would love you to show us your interpretations of this theme. "

What a joy we know as Christians to have hope in the Lord knowing that our faith is secure. Praise him!

Well I was having one of those making sessions, when you start off not with much of an idea, then an idea which changes into something quite differet from your original intention, but hey ho, as long as it works in the end right? All part of the creative process! I made that squigley shape myself! Proud as punch :)

Give with Gratefulness

2008-10-22T13:26:00.000-07:00

My turn this week for the SALT challenge "A self explanitory topic this week of GIVE THANKS (with a grateful heart)
Isn't there an abundance of things that we can be grateful to God for?! For starters - sending his son Jesus to die on the cross for our sin, so that whoever believes in him will not perish eternally in hell, but live with Him forever and ever and ever in heaven- praise God! Ok so it might not be easy to thank God in the hard times, but lets not forget all the blessings he has given to us and be thankful for them! Amen?!"
Punched flower shapes and inners with off cuts, and decorated with cabachon gems, and mini primas with fern leaves. mounted on printed card

Reccommend RAK

2008-10-22T12:49:00.000-07:00

I know I used to scratch my head when the letters RAK came up so for those who dont know they stand for Random Act of Kindness. I made this cad for a lady who's husband is going through a difficult time with his health, so I made this card to give her a long with some flowers and Apple and Berry crumble I made, afterwards I realised it fitted the Just Bex Forum challenge perfectly- a recipe of ribbon, circles/dots and 3 of something- dont you just love it when a plan comes together, the lady was pleased to recieve the items and said that she hadnt got a pudding for after there meal tonight! Praise the Lord another plan coming to together perfectly!

The White Stuff

2008-10-20T04:44:00.000-07:00

Completed this sinmplae card for the Jut Bex forum of leaving a white space somewhere on your card, most of you know this can be a mean task for me, but I like the way this came out. The big snowflake is a pin, so can be taken off the card and used afterwards.

This card is for a friend who kindly helped with my dreaded tax returns forms! Couldnt have done it without her thank you! She likes hearts so managed to incorporate a little charm to keep her happy :)
Posted some swirls to a fellow blogger, and decided to use some on the card I made for her- enjoy Jilly!

"I get by with a little help from my friends...."

2008-10-16T03:26:00.000-07:00

I helped a friend the other day with card making. When going back to basics, you remember how far you yourselfe have come and how much there is to teach! I idn't know where to start!... We managedto produce this card though. All along I wanted to encourage her to make the decisions because it was her card, I was just there to give guidance, she was so pleased with the results. That lovely bird image was on some sheets that a neighbour gave her, which she kindly let me keep (beacuse she has more).
So I was able to use it on this thankyou card, based on the 2sketches4You design. This is winging it's way to canada to say thank you to a friend who kindly sent me a clear bible text stamp - thank you, you know who you are! Sorry if you see the card here first...
These cards are what I managed to produce using the gorgeous text stamp, with my new heidi swapp one- what a great match!

Making an impression

2008-10-15T05:39:00.001-07:00

Heat embossing was the challenge this week for Cupcake craft Challenge blog, I made this card the other day and realised it fitted in nicely with the topic :) I used utee and embossing powder to create a layered effect of powder, and pushed the stamp in to make an impression. Used scraps of offcuts which I layered and stamped, and there you have it a simple masculine card.

Bright & Bold

2008-10-14T06:59:00.000-07:00

OOh couldn't wait to get stuck into the DCM challenge of bright, I recently bought some floral chipboard and felt (from charity shop) and traced round it to get the shapes of the flowers, I had fun mixing and matching, kept trying to add more to the card,but just didnt look right- so I left it!

"We REST on thee, and in thy name we go"

2008-10-10T00:43:00.000-07:00

I know I said this last time, but being on a design team you are made to realise how fast these weeks just fly by before the next challenge comes along!!!
Here is my contribution for this weeks SALT. 'This week the topic I have chosen is rest. Now I am not just talking about the physical act of rest (although that is something I do enjoy LOL!). Jesus talks about rest in Matthew 11:28"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.... When I consciously walk through things with God, it is then that experience the REST he is talking about. It is a rest or peace in my heart, even amidst chaos.' (If you havent had a look at this blog please do, even if you dont want to take part it is always worth a look to see how the other design team have interpreted this and other topics). It may look like an ordinary ATC but I like to think there is symbolism behind it. The edging is to represent the storms of life, and the gems are representing tears, yet God stitches us together and where we can find rest in him and assurance of His promises. (thanks to my sisiter Ruth for the tip about using the perforating tool for faux stitching, though I did go a little wonky!). . The full verse is Psalm 62:5 Find rest, Oh my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him

Take Three

2008-10-08T05:51:00.000-07:00

Long time no challenge.... well finally found a bit of time to do the DCM mid week challenge, this week follow a sketch, I just noticed there was no needto make 3 cards- buts thats what I did anyway.... I had purchased some new stash recently, hence the surge in mojo I think!

(note the bling on her finger!) (made one in each colour, love this cute giraffe stamp!)
(I kept getting black ink everywhere!)

Burgandy, Buttons & Bows

2008-10-02T04:44:00.000-07:00

As I missed my friends wedding, I decided to make her a book to keep special memoried in, using the fuscia pink theme of her wedding. I enjoyed scratching the edges on all the pieces to give a white distressed look. It all begain with the rose photo that I took which I cut into a heart shape, and the rest as they say was history!

Living a Life of Love

2008-10-02T03:26:00.000-07:00

Last sunday gone, I celebrated my 6th wedding anniversary, I was so shcked how quicklyit came round! So quick that I was a bit disorganised with making a card, but I managed to do it on time! 6 years is represented by Iron so I set about makingone from scratch! Using utee (ultra thick embossing enamel) I cut the shape of the iron from card and embossed it, the when embossing powderwas still hot i stuck a pen into it to make the holes.

Jar of Gems

2008-09-27T07:21:00.000-07:00

I made this jar for my friends (postnatal) baby shower. Decorated this preserving jar with cosmo cricket paper and my goreous new Martha stewart punch! Sweet little ladybirds andprimas, added ribbon and a label on the top saying Preserved Pearls of Wisdom. Inside I made a good hand full of origami stars, which made my thumb and finger hurt after a while from all the squeezing and pinching that is involved! Then got her friends to right choose a bible text and write words or encouragement and advice, cut them up into little scrolls and added them to the jar. People wrote such lovely things- I wanted to keep the jar for myself!

Perpetual Prayer

2008-09-25T15:23:00.000-07:00

I was very unprepared for this weeks SALT challenge 'Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.I Thessalonians 5:16-18 ', it really did creep up on me! I really wanted to do something that involved some sor or circle or spiral as a representation of contiuos (taken from the verse). I was tempted to cut a spiral from thepaper so it hung and spun, but with lack of time I didnt, instead I made a spinning disc with the verse, one side coloured in to represent when life is going well and the other side when life isnt going great... but in both those times we need to be praying continually!

Lorra Laura

2008-09-20T12:04:00.000-07:00

The card was made using the 2sketches4you sketch, along with new butterfly stamp and new laura ashley papers (thanks ruth!). Also while buying in some bargains at the charity shop I sotted this lovely teddy in the window for only 50p- and yes it is Laura Ashley too! The card and teddy are going seperate ways, but thought they made a nice photo :)

Magnetic Attraction

2008-09-17T12:49:00.001-07:00

I saw this magnet on holiday, and thought it would be perefect for my friend who lives down the road! To glam it up a bt I mounted it on to card with pieces of magnetic strip which I cut down, so that the magnet can be removed from the card if so desired (gone and deleted the pic to show you).

Puffy Penguins

2008-09-17T12:49:00.000-07:00

I love these little stickers, I picked them up last year in the Accesorize sale! I thought they would be great for kids cards and the like, here I have used it for an alternative anniversary card. Love the fact that they look so sweet, noneed for any glitz or glam! The couple really loved it (thankfully!)

Love Lugg

2008-09-16T14:42:00.000-07:00

If you havent heard of Sarah Lugg, then go and check out her work! (sorry cant be bothered to find link at this late hour...) After a quick visit to my sister, and raiding her craft stash I came home with new bits to play with (how very exciting!) really helps to rejuvinate the ole mojo! Any how.... Ruth was thinking of selling this stamp, and so I thought I would 'borrow' it first to see if it was any good. I had troubles at first as I tried to add buttons etc, but wasnt looking right, then decided to go for a decoupage effect, which looked better, but not quite there... So went on to add bits and bobs- and there you have it! I hope that you can see the layered results, was very pleased, and sad to part with this project but was made for some friends who got married while we were on holiday. Congrats Alexis & Sharo!

In the Frame

2008-09-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Back from a wonderfully, relaxing and fun holiday. A much needed break! Got lots of blog catching up to do. Thought I would start with some commissions that I did for some frames.

A friend's husband wanted this verse in a frame, and so I took the task on! He liked creation, and blues and greens. The way it happened almost came about by accident, I started putting touchesof green on the frame and as Ismudged it in some blue paint from the cloth went on the frame- I thought at first it would be a disaster, but added real effect! I added real fern leaves; to look like trees, and stamped swirls for the finishing touch.

These other frames were for the husbands wife. She wanted 2 frames with the same verse, so I decided to go with different colour schemes. Was pleased with the outcomes and made duplicates so I have spare frames to sell.

Jolly Holly's

2008-09-05T16:42:00.001-07:00

I am off for a week, at last! Holidaying for a week, neglected my blog lately, just havent found the time to keep it up to date, still making though! Great crafty tip: I have knocked toghether some cards, well laid them out anddrew a quick sketch to make up kits, so when I am away all I need to do is stick everything down, takes the hassle out of taking loads of craft stuff away with you, and you get to do what you love best when you are away!

Whatever...

2008-08-27T10:41:00.001-07:00

Salt challenge is here again and this week it is Kim's turn 'Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again, rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4: 4-9' I've been thinking a lot about our last challenge and obeying God's word. I was discussing this passage with my Mom about how we are to think ... and have been endeavouring to walk and talk and think just like this passage tells me too. Look at the rewards for doing so! And so this week I challenge you to join us in making some art about this passage and also to think about what you are thinking about. Does it line up with whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy? I know my thoughts don't always. But, as I fill my heart with God's word, and look to Jesus my thoughts are turning more and more to this. Thanks, Kimberly

Not having done a card for SALT for a while, I thought I would return to my roots! I used a piece of left over paper that I had lieing on my table, and simply decorated with primas, ink and gold pen, accented with coloured diamantes and ribbon, the knot is a visual reminder to help is rememeber to do what the verse says!

Pillow + Quilt = Quilto

2008-08-20T03:03:00.000-07:00

This is my card that I made to say thank you- to whoever the lovely lady was who hand made my gorgeous Quilto. I ordered it from an organisation in Africa called Morning Star, they are a Christian orphange who look after children ssuffering from HIV, one of their many projects "Tshedisanang" a Sotho word meaning 'to comfort and console', is a women's project in the heart of the Free State. It was initiated in September 2001 and falls under the umbrella of Morning Star Children's Centre, Welkom.
The women benefiting from Tshedisanang, all infected/affected by HIV/AIDS themselves, are skilled in hand embroidery and beadwork and produce the most exquisite wall hangings, jewellery, table cloths, clothing, to name a few. Their work is finding ready markets in America, England, Germany, Spain and Australia. 70% of all sales go to the women, with 30% being retained for material supplies, thus ensuring project sustainability.

The Quilto has a gorgeous peacock desin with labour intensive beading and stitching! It can be used as a cushion or opened out into a lanket- where you can even tuck your feet in to keep them warm!!!

Births, Birthdays & Abodes!

2008-08-16T06:50:00.000-07:00

Been busy, with making cards for people these last few months! And what wit the summer holidays, I have had little time to blog! So combined a few pictures of cards I have made...

"Trust & Obey"

2008-08-13T01:06:00.000-07:00

'Obey' was the theme of this weeks SALT CHALLENGE. I took inspiration from the well known hymn. When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word,What a glory He sheds on our way!While we do His good will, He abides with us still,And with all who will trust and obey.
Refrain Trust and obey, for there’s no other wayTo be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.
Not a shadow can rise, not a cloud in the skies,But His smile quickly drives it away;Not a doubt or a fear, not a sigh or a tear,Can abide while we trust and obey. Refrain
Not a burden we bear, not a sorrow we share,But our toil He doth richly repay;Not a grief or a loss, not a frown or a cross,But is blessed if we trust and obey. Refrain
But we never can prove the delights of His loveUntil all on the altar we lay;For the favor He shows, for the joy He bestows,Are for them who will trust and obey. Refrain
Then in fellowship sweet we will sit at His feet.Or we’ll walk by His side in the way.What He says we will do, where He sends we will go;Never fear, only trust and obey.Refrain

I recently treated myself to the K&Co Wild saffrom kit from QVC, and boy oh boy it is scrummy! Love the fact that (due to being in a rush) I didnt need to add a lot to my layout.

God Is Good

2008-08-01T15:42:00.000-07:00

The theme for this weeks SALT challenge ''And God saw that it was good' This is a reflection on Genesis 1, which gives an account of God's marvellous work of Creation and His reflection on it was that He 'saw that it was good'.As we celebrate our first birthday, it seems fitting to reflect upon the beauty of God's Creation.I marvel at the wonders of God's beautiful world - so much for us to enjoy, whether it's a sunset, the petals of a flower, the intricate design of a seashell ... I could go on to name so many examples, including, of course, the wonderful gift of life itself to us as humans.This is such a wide topic - you may wish to reflect on one particular aspect of God's Creation or the general scope of it.'

I wanted to make something bright and cheery, so stamped bright colours using tapestry stamps, then highlighted in black and added my faithful primas. As you can see I took the word Good and diverted slightly from the topic... woops!

Here's some I made earlier

2008-07-25T02:57:00.000-07:00

As the title suggests, a few cards not yet shown on my blog that I have done a few weeks ago... working with a 'bright' theme!

My QK cupcake, with sprinkles and a pom pom cherry on the top!

I love this colourful flock paper, it was the inpsiration for the colours on the card

This is the first time I have used the black and white doodling stripes, the background paper really reminds me of a pair of leggings I had in the 90's!!!

Itching to get a bike, so looks like I will be doing some ebay selling! Watch this space...

Challenge Catch Up

2008-07-22T15:23:00.000-07:00

After being away over the weekend, and not much access to the computer in the next few days, I thought I would get my head down and try and catch up on a few challenges...

For the Tilda & Co challenge 'to use bugs' on your creation... finally used up this tilda that I had coloured in ages ago along with the green stitched paper, just hadn't found the right use until now...

This card for the Di Hickman sketch. I made the cupcake using different papers, but wasn't originally intended for this card, but worked out well in the end! I love the simplicity of this card. I had to mask off the words in order to stamp it in the direction I wanted it to go! This is for the last couple of 2sketcches4you challenges, was difficult to show the 3d embossed effect on the butterflies!...

Patience is a virtue!

2008-07-16T08:31:00.000-07:00

It is my turn this week to set the challenge for SALT. I chose the theme of PATIENCE A continuous life lesson, that I am struggling to learn! There is so much to learn; PATIENCE as a fruit of the Holy Spirit, waiting PATIENTLY in the Lord, how the Lord is PATIENT with us! How we should be PATIENT with others!

My inspiration came from a daily devotional page that my dear friend gave to me, it was very reassuring and talked of resting in God and waiting patiently in him Psalm 37:7, I will quote some of what it says "there are things you cant have today that you'll be able to have in the future. So it doesnt make sense to drive yourself crazy and put your life on hold struggling to accomplish something now that'll be easy when the time is right...." "God allows certain things to take place in our lives to teach us important principles...." "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans12:12 when you spend time in God's waiting room, He's developing qualities in you that simply can't be deceloped any other way.
When He's finished you will come out stronger and wiser..."

2 Cards 4 2 Sketches 4 You

2008-07-13T13:23:00.000-07:00

Woops! made a bit of a boo boo... I thought I would give the 2sketches4you design team call a go, and thought we could make a card using there existing sketches, so worked hard on these, and it turns out there are specific sketches to use. Doh! So it was back tot he drawing board for me, will teach me to read things properly next time!

Beside the seaside, beside the sea

2008-07-10T07:47:00.001-07:00

My son has being doing a seaside theme at Nursery this term, and as I had made a few seaside theme cards, I thought I would make an extra special one to say thank you to the lovely teachers that do a grand job. Both he and I love the nursery and couldn't have chosen a better one. So thank you teachers! I would love to make something to give to the teachers so any suggestions would be welcome, ideally something they could all share...?

Freedom Forever

2008-07-03T06:53:00.000-07:00

This is one of those projects you have an idea in mind, but comes out not quite how you wanted, I suppose it looked a bit gloomy?... This weeks SALT challenge is 'FREEDOM' here is the blurb from the blog 'Freedom in Christ is something we often hear about. But, I wonder how many of us really know what that means? Just recently I attended a conference where an international Christian speaker presented the message to us. One of the things he spent time on was the identity messages we get from the world and our actual true identity. He said we often try and change our behaviour to match someone elses. But, it is essentially our identity message that we hear in our heads that will determine our behaviour. So, we need to gradually align our identity with the identity Christ has given us which says we are accepted, significant and secure. Then our behaviour will be changed and be more Christ-like . Knowing and believing the truth of these messages which Christ has died and risen for, will indeed set us free from all our striving and comparing. ' (photo bit tricky to take due to metallic papers!)

Immediately came to mind was the picture of handcuffs and later the words to the great hymn by Charles Wesley- And can it be? I was going to attempt a layout but with the lack of time, I decided to do an ATC. I hand cut the cuffs and tore the paper, I wrote some of the words to the hymn 'my chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose went forth and followed thee' I wanted to give the impression of a prison wall, hence the hash markings and grafitti look.

Freedom is Christ is like a lot of things is so easy to write in words, but when we explore the meaning for ourselves it means so much more. Freedom from sin forever- if we trust God to be our Savoiur!

Pretty Packaging

2008-07-02T08:08:00.000-07:00

Pretty packaging gave me the inspiration for this card... but can you guess what packaging I used??? If you can guess I will send a RAK (if more than one of you get it right, then a name will be pulled out the hat).

Also wanted to show of my bargain corner stand, which is more added storage, soesnt have a specific use... YET! but I thought it looked so pretty and for the price of 50p!!! Yes ladies and gents 50p at a car boot sale- who could say no? Infact it very nearly got forgotten as we asked the lady to look after it for us while we looked around.

And here... my prize strawberries! Thought they would make a nice photo if in teracotta pots with ribbon... note- challenge to self, make a card using this photo! I weighed some of my bigger straws and one came to a wopping 35 grams!

Wood you go for Would?

2008-06-26T03:07:00.000-07:00

DCM challenge is 'I really wanted to make a card using iron, but my inspiration kept running dry, so I decided to go for wood. There aren't that many elements of REAL wood on the card, but wanted to go for that feel, I had a piece of urban lily paper sitting on my table that I decided to colour in with watercolours, and then the rest stemmed from that. I went to touch up the colour when I had finished, and realised I could incorporate the SHAVINGS from my pencil, so thats what I did!...

!Bag a Bind It All!

2008-06-25T12:46:00.000-07:00

Do you want one??? The much talked about, easy to use, versatile, binding machine! I have one for sale.... BRAND NEW AND NEVER BEEN USED (you will recieve the machine that comes with a instruction book, dvd and spacer everything you would expect to get whenbuying it from a shop, so no spirals or covers). Literally at a first come first served basis, I am hoping the pay button works! If you have any difficulty I will go with the first comment left. What are you waiting for Go! Go! Go! Oh the price.. £38.00 including P&P (in the Uk) RRP £54.99

Tilda's Toadstool

2008-06-25T02:41:00.000-07:00

(close up picture to try and show 3D effect)

This weeks Tilda Challenge 'All things dottie'- what fun! I love dots and spots and polka dots!!!

I started with using the red and white paper for her top and kept making mistakes, then it came to me likea flash! I could use the paper to create a toadstool! I loved using the denim paper for a pair of jeans, and tried to keep the whole thing bright and cheery. Also added in some spotty prima flowers too!

Offcuts & Quickutz

2008-06-19T15:43:00.000-07:00

This is my card made with the 2Sketches4you sketch, I had in mind what I wanted to achieve (which always helps!) and wanted to use the gorgeous cosmo cricket paper, just love the colours, which as you can see were the inspiration for my card. I have added a close up picture so you can see more detail, like the text on the swirl and the3d effect

I then went on to make some more cards with the offcuts, a good habit to get into!!! And used the smaller offcuts to make another card based on one which I made before using smaller pieces, and that's where the Quickutz comes in handy!

P.s. Blog candy here on Arty Party blog (part of the rules to leave a link)

"Rejoice, Rejoice and again I say Rejoice"

2008-06-18T14:17:00.000-07:00

This weeks SALT challenge is 'REJOICE' 'The Bible says to Rejoice in the Lord ALWAYS. This is a verse that I keep meditating on as its one of those that pops into your head, but is very hard for your heart to grasp sometimes.When we go through trials, or we can see others suffering, getting to the truth of this verse is vital.It doesn't say Rejoice for the sake of it, it says Rejoice in the LORD, the one who has saved us from the punishment we deserve, the ALMIGHTY one, who LOVES us so much. ' I put my rejoice stamp to good use... I love doing hangings as I have them on display and what better way of reminding me to REJOICE in the LORD always!

One for Jadon!

2008-06-17T15:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my youngest nephew who is One tomorrow! Here is the card I made for him. I am going to be sneaky and incorporate it into the DCM Wheels challenge 'I'd like you to feature wheels ON your cards, or as part of them. So you could have cars, bikes etc on your card, or maybe you could actually make a card that moves along on some wheels', (sneaky cos I already made the card, and had already made the fathers day ones before I noticed the challenge! so thought I would submit this one anyway)... Hey ho...

Where does the time go?

2008-06-12T01:59:00.000-07:00

this week seems all hickeldy pickeldy, I can't belive it has been a week since I last posted! Plus I keep thinking I am a day behind? Like thinking today is wednesday.... ARGH! Well I have managed to make some cards in my mad week... A couple here using the same materials for Father's Day, the sketch was taken from the newly discovered 2sketches4you blog. I hope you can see the sketch design through the embellishments? Was a bit of a challenge as I set myself to do Father's day cards using the sketch, think it would have been easier to do feminie cards! (always is though....)

Praise! Pain! Psalms!

2008-06-05T01:28:00.000-07:00

My sister had a gorgeous baby girl! My first neice! (out of 5 nephews, including my other sisters family). I'm not sure whether I will be able to do much crafting for a few weeks, as I managed to hurt my coxix (the base of the back where your bottom is!) hurts to sit down, sneeze, cough, laugh (though not much of that happening!) Anyway managed to get my card done for the SALT challenge this week. It was on the broad topic of the Psalms, so I chose one of my favourite Psalm 121; you can read the words in the close up photo. Here is the blurbfrom the blog 'From frustration and anger to joy and support. there is so much in the book of Psalms. I'd like you to reflect on a favourite verse - or whole psalm and interpret it as you feel led. '

Blankety Blank

2008-05-31T15:16:00.001-07:00

After seeing Di Hickman's sketch for this week, the idea came to me! A farely blank canvas card using my new QK alphabets, and embossing 3squares along the top and bottom, finishing it off with gross grain ribbon and a heart pin. I made this card with a congratatualtions on a baby card, as one of my sister's is due to give birth any time now.... this card I made with a scrap of card that was sitting on my table for a while that I teamed up with the feather- waiting to be used...

Reaching Retirement

2008-05-30T15:48:00.001-07:00

Feels like ages since I have blogged... what the half term holidays, and stroking the guinea pigs, I have neglected my craft table- not by choice! Was lacking in inpiration so took a look at the latest challenges and sketches on the various sites, good old DI HICKMAN came to my rescue with her sketch. I used the stripey effect in the ribbon to follow the effect of her sketch (have a look at her blog so you know what I am talking about!). Doh! just realised I am like a week behind! oh well... I recently bought this stamp as I thought it would be nice to makesome retirement cards- so here is my first...

ribbon from charity shop! Prima's, stick on pearls- Lakeland, sentiment stamp clevercuts website, journal stamp -cant remember name of company!...

Everlasting Love

2008-05-23T03:16:00.000-07:00

The Salt challenge this week is 'Walk in Love' 'There is so much that God has said to us in his Word about Love. God is Love. Faith works by love. The greatest commandment given to us by Jesus is to love.Jesus replied, "' Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind'. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the law and the prophets hang on these two commandments." Matthew 22: 37-40But if anyone obeys his word, God's love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in him; Whoever claims to live in him, must walk as Jesus did. 1 John 2:5-6This week, consider your love walk ... and join us in creating art that glorifies him.'

I decided to do a 6x12 layout to add to my layout diplay, and take advantage of my massive new letter stamps! I took this photo ages ago when my son was a baby, and haven't got round to using it till now...

This is a recent commission I did for a 60th wedding anniversary! Amazing how long love can last, and none more everlasting than God's love to us!!!!

We Are Family...

2008-05-18T14:54:00.001-07:00

Cards made for a mother and daughter, whose birthdays are near the same date so tend to send the cards off in one go...

Have my parents and auntie and uncle visiting from Australia coming to stay tomorrow for a few days, which will be great as I havn't seen them since 1990!

And also wanted to show you are new additions to the family, Teddy (sandy colour) and Rex (dark grey, with stripe)- the guinea pigs! First time having guinea pigs... so reading up a lot, they are still very shy as they are settling in, but hope that they will become part of the family real soon. Cant wait to here the speak, as they make the cutest sounds... (difficult to take a decent photo at the mo, hope to get some better shots soon)

Missing, Monochrome

2008-05-14T12:41:00.000-07:00

Missing colour! And missing you, the theme of my card. This week's Tilda & Co challenge is to use the classic black and white. A great chance to use some new stamps, and my pretty pins!

Battle of the Sexes

2008-05-12T05:52:00.000-07:00

Been making a lotof cards recently, just no time to load on blog, so here are a few pics... Stocking up on mens cards and got carried away with some new stickers and made some girly glittery cards too! Was trying to be diciplined and use up scraps which I find helps invent new cards that you might not have made normally :) Gave in and used some of my delicious Basic Grey papers too!

Purposeful Patchwork

2008-05-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

My Patchwork heart was inspired by this weeks SALT challenge, the topic being FORGIVENESS. The idea behind it was that despite our sin God sent his Son Jesus to cover our sin and almost patch us up; through dieing on the cross and making a way for us to be forgiven. The date is significant, because it is when Christ invited me to be part of his kingdom. "God works in mysterious ways his wonders to perform" Some people cant pin point the day or the time, but for me it was this date that I came to the realisation, that I needed to accept that Christ died to save me from my sins, I was scared at not feeling 'guilty' but was told that if I accept that I am a sinner, and realise that I need a Saviour, to ask for forgiveness, then I will be saved. What a wonderful moment that was pouring my heart out kneeling in prayer and knowing that I could finally say I was a Christian! I Prasie the Lord for the wonderful work that He has done in my life, all of Him and nothing of me.

To make the card, I gathered some similar coloured scraps, mounted it on card and cut out the heart shape, used a stitching stamp for the edging and inked. Prima Hydrangeas with stick on pearls, wooden button from stash with raffia, then string form a clothes label to hang.

Brown is the new Black

2008-05-05T14:42:00.000-07:00

... Well browns seems to be apprearing in a lot of my cardmaking recently... put this home card together out of bits and pieces, and then went on to use some scrap paper to make this ultra simple card...which as usual I was majorly tempted to add to,but managed to resist! Was also kickingmyself for not taking a photograph of a card I spent ages making for a friend and already put in the post!

Shopping Spree

2008-05-02T03:29:00.000-07:00

Went to Clark's Village yesterday (outlet shops)! Oo I do love it there, especially cos they have a Paper Mill Shop there, ideal for coloured cards, and now they have a bigger selection! Anyway to my card... stamped on the white paper and coloured over with watercolour pencils, the piece of paper has been sitting on my desk fora while, and I wanted to use it, so made up this thankyou card. Oh also got some vintage buttons from ebay, getting into my buttons recently!!

All Things Bright & Beautiful

2008-04-29T14:18:00.000-07:00

I had this card design in my head, and worked out just how I wanted it! I bright colours cheered me up, I love this polka dot paper!
This is a recent card I made for a commission, for a little boy, and specifications were the wording and the colour blue.