Simply Jools

Fathers Day

2011-05-15T11:20:00.002+01:00

I cant believe how rubbish my photos are!!!!...arrrrgh. I am not at all technical so not sure what to do. Anyway this card is for my Dad, the image is from Lily of the Valley and so is the sentiment. I will be using this image for my boys Fathers day card to their Dad and probably my brothers birthday so well worth the money!

I am enjoying my week off with the boys although Hubby is working away.....this means more time in my craft room. I have been making some birthday cards to get ahead of myself as I usually leave it to the last minute and have to rush.

Thanks to Barbi for giving me a Love Blog award...thats so kind. I am sorry that I havent had time to take part but its much appreciated.

2011-05-15T11:18:00.002+01:00

Another card that I made at the weekend for my Nephew. I hope he will appreciate the text speak greeting, I had to google to find out how to text "happy birthday".......such a sad Auntie aren`t I. I really like this image from The Greeting Farm, I have used this many times as I find male cards very difficult.

Back at last.....

2011-05-15T11:01:00.003+01:00

Well its been soooooooo long since I posted on my blog that I have forgotton my password and how to add a post......shocking!!!

I have continued to craft since my last post but have never seemed to have the time to upload pics and post onto my blog.....I have missed it. I do still have a look around at all the fabulous blogs out there and still get very inspired. So here goes......

This image is from Lily of the Valley and coloured with Copic pens, paper from V&A.

My main aim at the moment is not to spend money on crafting......this will be very difficult I know....but I have soooo much in my craft room it will be a fab challenge to actually use some of the stuff I have had for ages.

Craft Room Creations

2009-08-11T10:06:00.007+01:00

These are some of the cards I have made over the last few weeks. I have been looking around all my fav blogs and have been inspired. I will hopefully be back as a regular blogger soon!

Craft Haven

2009-08-11T09:47:00.007+01:00

I have finally got my craft room finished and I love it!......I can now pop in and out whenever I get five spare minutes or a whole evening if I`m lucky and craft in my own space, it`s fab.

Now I have more space I will be needing more crafty bits.........cant wait to fill all my shelves with more goodies!

Just Passing Through!

2009-04-30T09:29:00.006+01:00

I have now realised it is impossible for me to keep up with my blog.....However much I try I only seem to have time to make last minute cards for my family birthdays, so blogging has gone out of the window. I really do miss it though.

Today my son is off school ill so I too have a day at home. I have decided to put on some of the cards I have made over the last few weeks. So sorry for not visiting my fav blogs I hope everyone is happy and well.

Hopefully in the next couple of months I will have my much wanted craft room, crafting in the dining room is a big part of why I dont have time. Having to put everything away after every card in time for dinner is such a pain it often puts me off. Once I get my room I can close the door and leave cards half done if I want so can craft any spare minute I get. Cant wait!

I`m A Winner

2009-03-02T17:38:00.002Z

I am soooooo chuffed.......my last card has won Clare`s Sketch Challenge over on Docrafts!
I was feeling really rubbish today but was over the moon so see that I was a winner.Thanks Clare!

Clare`s Sketch Challenge

2009-02-26T17:34:00.004Z

This is a challenge that I found over on the Docrafts website from Clare Curd. Most of this card was made up from a TSV I bought last year from QVC but hadn`t had chance to use. The flower and buttons were from my stash. This will be for Mother`s Day from my boys.

Lil Bro

2009-02-22T15:07:00.005Z

I have had a busy week off.....but a nice one!
Mom came to stay for the week which has been great, help with the kids and lots of laughs. Managed to fill each day with boring house stuff including a leak in the bathroom and finishing my sons bedroom. I havent managed any crafting this week, this is a card I did a couple of weeks ago ready for my lil Bro`s birthday.

This image was a gift from Vicki, if you check out her blog she has some fab cards with this image. I stamped the sentiment and coloured the image with watercolours. The paper is Basic Grey..Off Beat and Bazzil cs. I used ribbon from my stash and brads from Dovecraft.

I am hoping to make a start on my Mothers day cards this week.....so I am on the lookout for ideas!

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-15T18:03:00.003Z

I`ve just got back from a fab weekend with my Hubby. We have shopped til we dropped, eaten gorgeous food and partied too....heaven.

Now I am back to the real world with a week off from work with my boys and my Mom staying with us. I am looking forward to chillin out after finishing off my youngest son Marshalls bedroom....he`s driving me mad to get it finished.
This is the card I sent to Hubby, he said he really liked it....but a card is a card to him!
I used paper from my stash with a layer of core dinations cs to get the red torn edge.The sentiment and hearts were freebie stamps from Cardmaking and Papercraft mag. Ribbon and gems from my stash.
Thanks for the warm welcome back, you are all so kind.

Blog Candy

2009-02-08T09:38:00.002Z

Check out the fabulous bog Candy on Dawns blog. She is celebrating her 1st blogaversary!

New Start

2009-02-07T16:22:00.006Z

After a 3 month break I have finally returned to my blog....where has the time gone??
I have had to put crafting on hold as we have had a loft and garage conversion which was started in October. This has been very chaotic......my house was turned upside down and with Christmas on top of that craft has taken a back seat.
So this is a new start and I`ve made a couple of cards even though alot of my stash is still boxed up ready for when my craft room is done. I know I wont have time to blog much but I have promised myself to try and touch down at least once a week.
I hope to get round to visiting all my old favourites and probably find some new blog buddies.

I have used paper and cs from a previous TSV with an image that was a kind gift from Vicki.
I scalloped the edge with my Fiskars punch, which I love! I stamped the flowers and tag and added a ribbon bow.

This is cs from TSV with a stamped swirl which is a foam stamp from QVC. The image is also from Vicki and gorgeous flora doodle flowers.

Halloween

2008-11-04T18:12:00.010Z

I had a fab weekend at my Sil Kerry`s this weekend, especially the Halloween Quiz organised by my Bil for his kids football team. It was a great success although my hubby was gutted that we came second!!!

I made this card for Kerry to say thanks for having us....a great excuse for using my halloween Kerryjo stamp!

Cardstock is Bazzil

Backing papers and text are a freebie kit from Two Peas In A Bucket

Image is from Kerryjo coloured using watercolour pencils

Ribbon and pumpkin from my stash

Inspired.....

2008-10-30T16:47:00.002Z

This next card was inspired by Vicki. My Secret Sister card from Vicki was so unusual and gorgeous I decided to use the layout for Neil`s Aunties 60th birthday. I can only explain it as two mini cards within a card....not sure this makes sense!!!! So I would like to thank Vicki . .

Papers are K & Co

Image was given to me so dont know

flowers from Poppicrafts

Ribbon and lace from stash

Chipboard numbers from Brenda Pinnick

Thanks Vicki

2008-10-28T15:36:00.005Z

This is the card I made for Vicki as a thank you for my Secret Sister goodies. I made it as soon as I received my wonderful parcel and although I had guessed it was Vicki I waited for the reveal to send it. Everything on the card was part of my parcel, even though the papers are from a Christmas stack! .....thanks again Vicki. x Papers are Papermania...Naughty and nice

Image is from Vicki not sure where from

Sentiment is rub on letters by Doodlebug

Flowers are from Sarahs Crafts

Week Off!

2008-10-27T14:25:00.006Z

Hurray.......I`ve got the week off work and I am so glad. Not that I don`t like my job, I just need time to kick back and catch up with stuff at home especially blogging!
I managed a couple of cards yesterday and really enjoyed making them.

Papers ( I have had a while ) from my stash

Image is Pennyblack coloured with watercolour pencils

Ribbon from Poppicrafts

Rub on sentiment

Papers from my stash (trying to use up remnants!)

Image is Elzybells coloured with watercolour pencils

Ribbon was free on a magazine

Disco Dancing

2008-10-21T16:21:00.001+01:00

A little bit of fun on the post below.
Just put my music on pause at the bottom of the page then hit play on the picture!

Me & Neil

2008-10-21T14:22:00.001+01:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Secret Sister

2008-10-17T19:18:00.009+01:00

It`s time for my Secret Sister reveal..........................It`s Maria!

I recently took part in a secret sister swap very kindly organised by Michelle. My secret sister was Maria and these are the 3 boxes I made and filled with crafty stuff to send to her.

have a feeling Maria may have thought someone else sent these but this has just added to the fun and excitment of the swap.

I wanted to cover every angle when deciding what to send so I made three boxes each with a different theme.

Girls Christmas Boys

I really enjoyed taking part in the secret sister swap...thanks again Michelle. Now to confirm who sent me my fab package of goodies!

Birthday Cake

2008-10-10T16:47:00.002+01:00

I made it on time...hurray!

This is for my Hubby`s uncle, his birthday is Saturday. I used cs and paper from DCWV and the image was kindly given to me. I used water colour pencils and highlighted with some stickles. Is glitter ok for a man????

The eyelets and chipboard shapes are Brenda Pinnick . The ribbon and rub on sentiment are from my stash.

I have also nearly finished a card which isn`t needed until November!!!!

Next on the list...Christmas cards.

Anniversary Card

2008-10-08T18:43:00.003+01:00

This is the stunning card my SIL Kerry made for my 10th wedding anniversary.....It`s beautiful!
Kerry has sketched me and hubby on our wedding day and it is such a great likeness. Apparently lots of planning went into it as she had to get a piccie from my Mom without me knowing.....mission impossible...lol
I love the sketch and how it works so well with the subtle colours and the cut work is gorgeous.
I was amazed when I opened it and I still keep looking at it now!
Pop over to Kerry`s blog to see more amazing cards.

Late Again!

2008-10-05T20:30:00.004+01:00

This card I made for my Niece and was late again!.....I really need to get organised.

I used papers, ribbon and photo corners from an old QVC kit. I coloured the Kerryjo image using watercolour pencils.I added eyelets using my crop-a-dile and stamped the sentiment. My niece will be fifteen so I`m sure she will like it.

This is the `late again` birthday card I sent to Vicki...so sorry it was late!

The image was a Sweet Ebony given to me by Vicki which I used watercolour pencils on. The papers are from K&Co and flowers from Poppicrafts. I used pearls from my stash on the flowers and stamped the sentiment. The adhesive lacy ribbon is from QVC which I loved using!

I will be getting started on Hubby`s Uncles card next. His birthday is Saturday so I hope I get it done on time for a change.

First Things First......

2008-10-02T20:34:00.007+01:00

I would like to say a very belated `Happy Birthday` to Vicki. I am so behind with things ( and cards) this is the first chance I`ve had to blog! I hope you had a fab day Vicki...I see you were spoilt with many yummy pressies, especially from hubby, you lucky girl! I would also like to thank Vicki for the beautiful card that she sent me, it was such a lovely thought. Anyway the reason I`m behind is my gorgeous weekend away. For my 10th wedding anniversary my hubby took me to Florence, well it was amazing and yes it was romantic...say no more...lolI was so behind with stuff I made him a card the night before......the result was a very feminine card!!!! lol . I had to give it to him as it was all I had time to do. Its the thought that counts!

I overlaid the card with Vellum, printed the words on my PC then ripped the paper and layered them onto various papers and cs. I used ribbon from my stash and stamped the flourish with a foam stamp from QVC. He said he didnt mind it looking feminine........but then he didnt have much choice...lol.

Best Wishes

2008-09-22T16:17:00.005+01:00

I have made this quickie for my hubbies aunt`s birthday. The image is from the very kind Cass , which she sent a while back. I have coloured it with Sakura pens (again)and mounted onto Bazzil cs. The paper is K&CO, flowers are Flora Doodles and the ribbon is Chatterbox.

I seem to have found my creative streak again as I have enjoyed making the last few cards. It has definitely returned since receiving my Secret Sister package, it inspired me!.........

Cant wait to find out who it is, even though I have a good idea.

Must go as I`m feeling rubbish, sore throat and ear ache!.....I have my son to thank for passing it on. I really must make a speedy recovery as its my 10th wedding anniversary this weekend so I`m off to Florence for a bit of sun and Romance.......hopefully..lol

Pink and Lilac

2008-09-21T19:53:00.004+01:00

I`m loving pink and lilac at the moment so hers my latest creation......
The gorgeous image was from mt secret sister (thanks again). I coloured it with Sakura Stardust pens which I have recently re discovered. The paper is Springdoodles by Scribble Scrabble with Bazzil cs. The ribbon is from Poppicrafts and I stamped the sentiment and flower.
I think this will come in handy for one of my sons little friends.

Secret Sister Surprise

2008-09-16T18:36:00.006+01:00

Wow is all I can say.........I am overwhelmed with the wonderful parcel I received today from my secret sister. It was so exciting opening the box to find all these terrific goodies. There are Christmas Papermania papers, Papermania snowflake brads, felt ribbon, rub ons, bundle of ribbon, flowers, stickles, xmas stamp and die-cut sentiments. There are also so many stamped images in a gorgeous wallet. But best of all a fantastic card made by my secret sister! I was actually late picking my boys up from school because I got my parcel just before school run time......just had to open it and have a look...lol.

I am pretty sure I can guess my secret sister but I shall wait to find out to thank her personally.

I would like to say thanks to Michelle for organising this for us and a massive thanks to my secret sister. x

Dressing up

2008-09-15T13:06:00.003+01:00

It`s my neices birthday at the end of the month and just had to use this image that was given to me. She will be 3 and just loves dressing up and clip clopping around in my sisters high heels.
I`ve used up a scrap of paper from my stash and bazzil cs. I coloured the image with Stardust Sakura pens so it has a slight sparkle. The chipboard embellishment and number 3 from my stash and lovely ribbon from Poppicrafts. Sorry about the shadow across the piccie.
Only 3 more cards to go for the month, I really must get infront with my family cards!

Fancy dress party!

2008-09-14T18:05:00.006+01:00

Thought I`d put on the pics from my Sisters fancy dress party this weekend, we had a fab time!

Karate Kid Jake

Power Ranger Marshall

Pink Lady and Indiana Jones
Me with Marilyn Monroe little Sis

Happy Anniversary

2008-09-14T17:57:00.003+01:00

I would like to say Happy Anniversary to my Sil Kerry and her hubby, 11yrs yesterday!

I have made this for them using black cs and swirl stamp from QVC. I printed Love on my computer and also the sentiment. The ribbon is by Chatterbox and flower is Flora Doodles.

I was nervous using the swirl stamp as it is foam and wasnt sure it would give a good image but after a few practices I was pleased with the result.

Award

2008-09-11T21:03:00.005+01:00

I`d like to thank Vicki for my award, it means alot as I`m finding it hard to keep motivated. Thanks Vicki for the cheer up!

I would like to pass it on to these fab 5 people
Tara, Chrissie, Cass, Maria and Stacey.
Pop on over to see there gorgeous blogs.

Angel

2008-09-11T20:43:00.002+01:00

I have made this baby card for my friend who had a whopping baby Byron on 1st September.

My friend has called the baby Sparkle all through her pregnancy so I wanted to do a card that was bright and cheery. I hope she likes it as it isnt a typical baby card......

The paper was from DCWV and chipboard embellishment is from stash. The image is Pennyblack and I coloured it using watercolour pencils and added a bit of glitter for `sparkle`.I`ve still got loads more to make so must get on........

I Love Your Blog

2008-09-11T20:30:00.005+01:00

I would like to say thanks to Mar G for giving me this award while I was on my hols, sorry I`ve only just got around to putting it on my blog!

'I Love Your Blog'

1. The winner can put the "I love your blog" logo on their own blog.
2. Link the person you received your award from.
3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs.
4. Put links of those on yours.
5. Leave a message on the blogs of the people you’ve nominated

I have linked Mar G to my blog so you can go and take a look. Because I have left it so long most people have this award ( and so they should!) so I wont pass it on.

I`m Back!

2008-09-07T19:11:00.011+01:00

I`m back from sunny Majorca!............back to this depressing weather.

Me and the boys had a fab holiday. I recharged my batteries, Neil got sunburnt and the kids spent most of their time in the pool.

I went back to work and boys to school on Wednesday, so with that and all my washing this is the first chance I have had to blog. Hopefully I will visit everyone soon.

September is the worst month for me when it comes to cardmaking as I have so many birthdays, anniversaries and my friend has had her baby boy. I will be flat out so hopefully I`ll soon have something to put on my blog. Although, I must confess, I have already made 2 and sent them without taking piccies! ......it was a rush job.

Me with my sons......Jake isnt strangling Marshall....honest!

Jake about to walk on water.

Have a good week. x

Pink and Black

2008-08-14T11:51:00.001+01:00

Sorry....its a bad picture, I was being impatient!
I have made this for my sisters 30th next month. I havent put 30 on the front so will find a relevant verse and add an insert. I have used blk & wht paper from my stash and pink Bazzil cs. The image is Penny Black and gorgeous flowers are Flora Doodle. I got the ribbon from my local craft shop. I enjoyed using pink and black so will be doing a few more...hopefully!
I had a fab week with my Mom and really enjoyed the wedding we went to at the weekend. This week has been a whirlwind of ironing and packing as we are off on hols this weekend...YIPEEEE
This will be it from me for a while so happy crafting everyone.x

Baby Boy

2008-08-07T08:57:00.004+01:00

last one for now.....I have followed yet another sketch, this time from http://sketchsaturday.blogspot.com/. My sis is due to have a baby boy at any time so thought I`d be well infont for a change. Everything used is stuff I have had ages, I can only remember the chipboard embellishments are from Create and Craft.
Not sure if I will have chance to make anymore this week as going away for a wedding this weekend. I really hope the weather picks up as its awful at the moment.

Papertake Weekly Challenge

2008-08-06T08:39:00.002+01:00

I managed it!......I made a couple of cards yesterday and really enjoyed it. The first one was hard work and didnt turn out well so I am not putting that one on. This one I followed the sketch on http://papertakeweekly.blogspot.com/ and found this easier. The papers are Pink Petticoat and the image Penny Black. The ribbon and flower are from my stash. I will hopefully put the others on later. Hope you all have a lovely day and thanks for taking a look.

Dad....2 sketches 4 you.

2008-08-06T08:37:00.004+01:00

Another one done.....ideas are flowing now!
For this I followed the sketch at http://www.2sketches4you.blogspot.com/ I really like these sketches as they make me think! I have made this for Hubby from the boys using papers given to me by Kerry and a stamped image from Cass, thanks girls.....Also Bazzil cs and Brenda Pinnick chipboard letters finished with Anitas Gloss.

Mom has come to stay for a few days and she is also a crafter, infact guilty of getting me started!...lol. So there will be lots of craft chat and we have already been ordering goodies.
More cards to come....

A Card At Last.....

2008-08-05T13:06:00.003+01:00

I hadn`t realised I actually did take a piccie of my MILs birthday card so I thought I`d put it on while I try to make some more. I did it as a challenge a couple of weeks ago but never got round to adding it to my blog. I used papers from my stash, Bazzil cs, Flora Doodles flowers and Brenda Pinnick chipboard letters.
I am now going to make a card (if it kills me..lol) for a wedding this weekend, it is also the brides birthday so a card for that is also needed. Where do I start?........I think I`ll have a look at some challenges as a starting point.
I hope to post the results soon.

Apologies!......

2008-08-03T16:15:00.005+01:00

Hi everyone, I am so sorry for not being a committed blogger as you all are, I have gone a bit off the rails.......
Me and my boys broke up nearly 2 weeks ago for the summer and I couldnt wait as it meant more time for cardmaking but I have only made 2 cards and havent been blogging at all!....
Why is this?....well the answer is.... I dont know.
For some reason I lost all interest and just didnt even go on my laptop. The two cards I made were for my mother in laws birthday but I forgot to take pictures of them....I think I have lost the plot.
Anyway I really am sorry and would love to get inspired again this week and get into my blog. I would like to thank the people that have left me some lovely awards lately...They are Chrissie, Dawny P, Kerry and Maria. Thanks alot ladies and I hope I am forgiven for being a very bad blogger.

A bit of a change....

2008-07-17T12:43:00.004+01:00

I thought for a change, I would have a go at scrapbooking.... I have had a go before with OK results but I have had this picture of my niece since Christmas waiting to do a page.

I found this really tricky...the 12x12 page just really scared me..lol. It took me so long to decide on the layout, I had to get some inspiration from a magazine. I`m still not sure if I have put enough on the page?????

I have used Bazzil cs, paper and chipboard embellies were from Create and Craft.

I will definately have a go at something else but I always seem to need to make a card for someone!

Thanks for looking.

Snakes and Spiders

2008-07-13T17:52:00.004+01:00

My Son Jake went on a Cubs Quest and came back with this evidence of him touching a snake and a spider. He is terrified of spiders so I am so proud of him!

If I hadn`t seen it for myself I wouldn`t have believed it. Kids are full of surprises!

Marias Blog Candy

2008-07-12T16:53:00.001+01:00

You must visit Marias blog to see what fab blog candy she has on offer. Congrats on 5000 hits!

2 Sketches 4 You

2008-07-09T20:50:00.003+01:00

I have followed this sketch from http://www.2sketches4you.blogspot.com/

I really enjoyed making this card from choosing the papers to colouring the image. My eldest Son wants to give this one to his teacher.

I have used papers from my stash that I have had for ages. The image is Penny Black coloured with water colour pencils. The chipboard embelishments are from Brenda Pinnick and Flora Doodles flowers.

I am hoping to get around to looking at peoples blogs over the next few days for more inspiration.

Papertake Weekly

2008-07-09T19:56:00.006+01:00

What a horrible day!!!!!...
It made me want to make some cheerful cards so I have had a go at the challenge on http://papertakeweekly.blogspot.com/ .I have used Hot of the Press papers and ribbon with a Penny Black image coloured with water colour pencils. I am going to use this for my Son to give to his teacher!

I would like to say Congratulations to my Sil Kerry who has her stamps in this months Cardmaking and Papercraft magazine. She is also Under The Spotlight on Docrafts.
Well Done Kerry, you deserve it!

Birthday Boy...

2008-07-08T13:26:00.002+01:00

I made this card for my Nephews 8th birthday.....I find boys cards so difficult, this was the 2nd attempt! The black and white paper is an old kit from QVC ,cs from the Papermill. I have water coloured the Sugar Nellie image and used a rub on for the sentiment. I used my trusty cropadile to add the eyelets. The bottle top was from the NEC craft show last year.

I hope he likes it as he knows what he likes!!!! I know he often gives his mom Kerry constructive criticism...lol

Sketch Saturday #6

2008-07-07T22:02:00.003+01:00

I have gone for bright and funky papers from DCWV TSV with the magnolia stamped image from a RAK I received. I have coloured the image with water colour pencils and mounted it onto scalloped edge circle. The sentiment is a rub on and ribbons are from my stash. I am going to use this card for my sons friends birthday, he is going to her party in fancy dress!

I have followed the sketch on http://sketchsaturday.blogspot.com/ take a look and have a go.

Weekend Fun...

2008-07-07T21:45:00.008+01:00

Hope everyone had a good one....mine was Fab!

Spent the weekend with Kerry and her gang for my nephews birthday. Saturday we all went off to Alton Towers and had a great day. I hadnt been for years and it was lovely seeing the kids faces when they saw the rides. We were very lucky with the weather too, it rained just as we waited in the queue for the rapids.

2 Sketches 4 You...

2008-07-02T22:08:00.003+01:00

I have made this for the challenge on http://www.2sketches4you.blogspot.com/
I have followed the sketch using papers from Shabby Princess. The flower is from DCWV TSV with a button from my stash and a Bazzil brad. I have stamped the sentiment in the corner.
Check this blog out and have a go......good luck!

Award!...

2008-07-02T21:49:00.003+01:00

I am so impressed......I have been given this fab award by 3 people!

Thank you so much to Cass, Vicki and Dawny P for giving me this award.

I think there are so many people who deserve this award and many people already have it.

I would like to award......

Please visit these blogs as they are amazing!

The rules for the award are as follows:

1. The winner can put the logo on their blog.

2. Link the person you received your award from.

3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs.

4. Put links of those blogs on yours.

5. Leave a message on the blogs you've nominated.

Thanks a Latte....

2008-07-01T21:57:00.005+01:00

I am on a roll!.....another challenge. This one is from http://papertakeweekly.blogspot.com/
The challenge is to make a thank you card with the option to use a coffee and cream colour scheme. Mine has turned out more chocolate than coffee!!!!
I have used a stamped image given to me by Vicki a while ago. Papers and sentiment are from Hot Off The Press (a very old kit) and ribbon and pearls from my stash.
I am well into these challenges....not sure if I can keep them up because housework is looming.....
I have been given some fab awards and will hopefully put them on my blog tomorrow, thanks Vicki and Cass. x

Cute Card Thursday...

2008-06-30T21:54:00.003+01:00

Had a go at another challenge!....This weeks Cute Card Thursday challenge is NOT to use patterned paper!
It took alot of thinking to decide what to do....I have stamped butterflies all over orange Bazzil cs to create my own backing paper. I used the butterfly image on the scalloped circle and funky ribbon bought ages ago from QVC.
Check out http://cutecardthursday.blogspot.com/ I have really enjoyed the challenge!

First Challenge!

2008-06-30T17:52:00.003+01:00

I have had a busy week...yet again! I didnt get to make a card this week until yesterday by which time I hadnt got my creative head on. I decided to have a go at a challenge as a starting point, this really helped!

I followed the sketch onhttp://magnoliachallengeblog.blogspot.com/ I really enjoyed following this sketch. I used papers from K&Co, ribbon from Chatterbox, flowers and pearlised gems from my stash. I am now looking round peoples blogs for other challenges I can have a go at!...

65th Birthday

2008-06-22T15:02:00.003+01:00

Had a lovely lazy day yesterday, with the awful weather I just didnt feel like doing much. The boys all played on there games (including Hubby) so I made a card!

I`ve made this for my Auntie who will be 65 next month. The image was kindly sent to me by Cass and I coloured it using water colour pencils . I used a silver Sakura pen for the beads and a little gem on her earing. I wraped vellum around the card as a base then layered the image onto Bazzil cs and matching paper. I stamped and embossed the tag with the pearls threaded through it. The 65 is chipboard coloured black and finally used a couple of gems on the tag and the corners of the card. I was after something quite traditional and elegant .

My son Jake has gone on a hike today with cubs, but he usually hates walking anywhere!...can`t help wondering how he is getting on. Now off to make Breville toasties.......mmmmm!

Kerryjo Ballerina

2008-06-20T19:49:00.002+01:00

After having a play with Kerry`s stamps I have decided this image is my favourite!

I think any girl would love to receive a card with this gorgeous image. I have coloured her using Stardust Sakura pens and used paper from DCWV TSV. The ribbon was a freebie from a magazine (cant remember which one) and the sentiment stamped and embossed.

We aren`t doing much this weekend , hope everyone has a good one!

2008-06-19T16:11:00.002+01:00

Just got back from Fun Day and Marshall came first in 2 races!....how chuffed is he????

Made this card last night too. I used a Sweet Ebony stamp called `picking apples` from Sugar Nellie. This and a few others were kindly given to me by Vicki. I have seen alot of these on other blogs and loved how they looked. I also used paper given to me by Kerry and Flora Doodles flowers. Hubby is away so no football tonight and plenty of cardmaking.....heaven!

2008-06-19T06:55:00.003+01:00

Just a quick post before I go and watch my sons Fun Day at school....My hubby`s cousin had a baby recently so got the chance to do a baby card. I used papers and chipboard embellishment from DCWV TSV. The image was in a RAK from Maria, I think he looks cute!

All Done!

2008-06-13T18:51:00.002+01:00

One more Fathers Day card for my Hubby from the boys, thank goodness thats done with. I have found it hard to come up with 3 male cards. This one is an image I received in a RAK, cant remember who from sorry... I have coloured it in with water colour pencils. The papers and ribbon are from my stash and cs is Bazzil. This image so reminds me of my hubby who is mostly found sitting in front of the tv...lol. Sorry I have not been around much this week but I have had my Mum staying with us. This has been nice because I dont live near to her and she is also a crafter. I have my mum to thank for starting me off with cardmaking, in fact she probably gets the blame for Kerry (my sil) too.
Hope everyone has a good weekend and I will hopefully back into my blog next week!

Fathers Day No2...

2008-06-05T20:21:00.003+01:00

Number 2 DONE!...as Gordon Ramsay would say..lol.
Thought I`d try a collage style for my Dad from me. I used HOTP papers which I inked the edges. All embellishments also from HOTP except ribbon from my stash. I will hopefully find a great verse from somewhere as my Dad is a bit soppy and loves a nice verse....any ideas anyone????

Fathers Day!

2008-06-04T18:32:00.005+01:00

It`s so difficult doing mens cards and I need to do 3 for Fathers Day!!!

This one is for my Dad from my sons. I wasnt sure if this image would be suitable but I think it works as it is from the kids.

The papers are DCWV TSV with the chipboard circle and ribbon from a Brenda Pinnick kit. The letters are rub ons and thanks to Vicki for the Magnolia Goblin image.

Lainys Little Blog has some blog candy up for grabs so I would like to enter this fathers day card. make sure you have a go!

Kerry Jo Stamps

2008-06-04T18:31:00.003+01:00

Got chance to play with my Kerryjo stamps at the weekend. I am so pleased with the quality of the stamps, they give such a crisp image!
I coloured her in with watercolour pencils (got a few tips from Kerry). The papers are DCWV TSV, the sentiment is a rub on from my stash. I used my crop-o-dile to add eyelets at the bottom, I tend to forget I have this!
I am hoping to use some of the other images soon. I`d love to see what anyone else has done with them too.

Eat Cake...

2008-06-04T18:29:00.003+01:00

Back at last.....what a fab weekend I had, shared with Kerry and her gang. We got to play with her Kerryjo stamps, drink plenty of wine and eat too much....perfect!

After recovering from all this I have made this card using a paper from The English Paper company called Fairy Fun. I decided not to use a stamped image on this as the cakes on the paper looked so nice. The topper is from Brenda Pinnick kit and the flowers are Flora Doodles.I must confess I pinched the idea of layering ribbons from Kerry...sorry Kez!

Hope everone else had a good weekend too!

Award...

2008-05-29T21:38:00.004+01:00

I would like to gratefully accept this Fab award given to me by my friend Vicki!

I would also like to wish Vicki and her Hubby a very happy 10th wedding anniversary. Congratulationsxxxx

I would like to give this award to Stacey and Vicki who both make amazing cards (and bags!) and have inspirational blogs. You Rock ladies.

Blog Candy

2008-05-28T16:08:00.001+01:00

Dawny has now reached 4000 hits on her Fab Blog and has some blog candy up for grabs.
Check it out!!!! www.pinkpiggywiggy.blogspot.com

Award!

2008-05-28T14:52:00.003+01:00

Thank you to Kerry for my Blogging with a Purpose award! I would like to pass this on to Dawny whose Blog I have recently come across. Her cards are fantastic so check it out! I would also like to award Julie for having a brilliant blog and gorgeous cards . One more for this award is Cass, She makes fab cards and gorgeous scrapbook pages.Well done to all of you, you have inspired me!

Cool Dude 2...

2008-05-27T10:11:00.006+01:00

Another BH Monday card. This image by Kerry is becoming a favourite of mine for boy cards!

I have used His and Hers Basisc papers from Cherry Arte. I have used Anitas Gloss on the boys jacket to make him look even more cool!!!

I am off work with my boys this week so hopefully will get time for more card making.

I would also like to enter my card in the Dies To Die For comp. You just need to make a male card using any of the prize items which is pretty much anything!

Rosie...

2008-05-26T20:27:00.004+01:00

What a terrible, wet Bank Holiday!....good excuse to make cards. This one is for my son Marshall`s friend who has invited him to her 5th birthday party. The papers are Springdoodles by Scribble Scrabble. The image is Magnloia, coloured with water colour pencils. I stamped and embossed the letters and used ribbon from my stash.

Marshall decided to make cards with me today and used some crafty bits that Tara kindly sent him. I would have put the cards on my blog but he had them in envelopes befrore I had noticed!!

Hope everyone has had a good Bank holiday despite the bad weather!

I have Been Tagged!

2008-05-23T21:19:00.008+01:00

I have been tagged by both Cass and Vicki with this Fab circle of friends award! I am so pleased to receive this from both of these lovely ladies and glad to be their friends.

I would like to pass this onto Maria, Tara and Stacey. Well done ladies!

Thanks......

2008-05-23T19:28:00.004+01:00

What a gorgeous surprise today......A card and wallet full of images from Vicki....and not only that, she has used one of Kerry`s images on them!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I know Vicki has been a great friend and support to Kerry while waiting for then to be launched.
They are beautifully coloured and glittered, they look so pretty. I can`t wait to have a go with the images as I have seen a few cards out there using these and they look great.
Thanks again to the lovely Vicki!

Girly Cards...

2008-05-23T19:26:00.004+01:00

Thought I`d have a go at using the Rubber Romance images that Vicki kindly sent me a while ago. I decided not to colour the images as they look great as is. I used pink and brown papers from the DCWV TSV, the flower is Flora Doodles and the brad is Bazzil. It put me in a very girly mood using these images which I love!

For this card I used His and Hers basics papers from Cherry Arte, ribbon from my stash and a rub on sentiment. Oh, I nearly forgot.....the gems on her hat are papermania.

Thank You!

2008-05-18T13:33:00.003+01:00

I made this for Cass to say thank you for the lovely stamped images she sent me. I do apologize for taking so long to do it, never enough hours in the day!

I used a Pink Petticoat stamped image with papers that are called `Shabbychic` by Junkitz. I cut the flowers out and used them to embellish the card.

Which One????

2008-05-15T14:34:00.002+01:00

I have made two cards for a friend on their wedding day, trouble is I can`t decide which one to send.....The friend is actually someone my Hubby works with. I used these colours as they are similar to the invitation they sent. The image is made by using a peel off as a stencil with water colour pencils. I think I prefer the more simple one.....haven`t asked hubby yet what he thinks!

Well Done Kerry!

2008-05-14T13:18:00.002+01:00

What can I say.....I am so proud of my SIL Kerry for designing such a fantastic set of stamps!
It has been a long time coming and perhaps a little frustrating for her, but well worth the wait.
I know she doesn`t always realise how talented she is and gets surprised that people out there would want to buy her designs. I know I may be a little biased lol....but I`m sure you will agree that these designs are fabulous! I know Kerry has had loads of support from people on Docrafts and from other blogger`s.
I can`t wait to see the stamps on Debbi Moore`s website and to see what other crafters can do with them. If you haven`t already check out her blog for some great inspiration.
Congratulations Kez! xxx

Cool Dude.

2008-05-13T18:04:00.003+01:00

I managed another card last night, although the picture hasn`t turned out very well!

I have loved using Kerry`s freebie `Cool Dude` image which I colured with water colour pencils.

The papers are from the TSV that I wasn`t going to buy (naughty me) and some square brads from my stash that I have had for ages. I will be sending this to my Hubbys godson so thanks again Kerry!

So Happy...You are expecting!

2008-05-12T18:47:00.003+01:00

Finally made a card!......

A friend of mine who I don`t see very often is having a baby so I thought I`d send a card.

The image is Pink Petticoat from a RAK kindly sent to me by Cass which I think works really well. The papers are Springdoodles by Scribble Scrabble. The bow was done by punching two holes in the card then threading the ribbon through and back on itself. Inside the card reads....You are expecting!

Busy, Busy!

2008-05-11T15:45:00.003+01:00

Really haven`t had chance to blog or make cards this week. I`ve had a quick glance at some other blogs and I am itching to have a go. I am hoping to make a card or two tonight, fingers crossed! I usually wait until the kids are in bed but sometimes the thought of having to get all my craft stuff out puts me off. I am hoping for a craft room before Christmas then I can just close the door when time runs out.

I`d like to say a big thank you to Kerry for giving us all the `cool dude` image. I`m sure you would all agree it was very generous and it will be well used.If you haven`t already visit her blog for some fab, inspirational cards.

Another Thank You!

2008-05-01T20:03:00.004+01:00

This is another card I made to say thank you to the very generous Maria. She sent me a lovely gift wallet full of stamped images. I used one of the magnolia images and coloured it using whispers and sakura pens. Thanks Maria!

I wont be around this weekend as I am going on a hen weekend to London. Can`t wait as its been so long since I have been out. Hubby is staying at home with the boys so I dread to think what I will come home to.....At least I have got Bank Holiday Monday to sort things out. Have a fab Holiday weekend!

Thank You!...

2008-04-30T17:36:00.003+01:00

I made this thank you card for Vicki for sending me a fab RAK a while back. It was bursting with stamped images and some flowers. I used one of the Sugar Nellie images that was in the collection and I have to say I loved using it! For the layout I followed a sketch but cant remember where from(sorry!). I will definately be buying some Sugar Nellies. Thanks again Vicki x.

That`s My Boy...

2008-04-25T18:52:00.004+01:00

My son Marshall has asked me to put the cards he made on my blog. How could I refuse?....

He loves card making and is always bugging me for crafty bits, bless him.

Plain and Simple

2008-04-25T18:48:00.002+01:00

I have made this but am not sure if it is finished or not..... I may add a sentiment as it looks quite plain. I do like it but shall I, shan`t I? This has a stamped image that Maria gave me but I dont know where it is from...anyone?????

Precious

2008-04-25T18:43:00.003+01:00

I have made this card for my son Marshalls friend Precious. I couldnt wait to have ago with the images I got from Maria and Vicki. I found using these images made it easier to make a card as this is the main focus.I used Pink Petticoat papers with the lovely Magnolia stamped image.I stamped the name using clear stamps.

I`m Blown Away....

2008-04-25T18:30:00.007+01:00

I want to say a BIG thank you to Maria and Vicki for sending me these beautiful wallet cards packed with stamped images. I mentioned that I would like to buy some stamps but didnt know which ones. These two generous ladies have sent these to me to help me decide.....I was really overwhelmed when I received these in the post. Not only the wonderful images but fantastic cards too. The only problem is I may now be buying more than I first thought!

I have been tagged...

2008-04-20T19:32:00.004+01:00

My fav sil Kerry has tagged me....after figuring out what to do about this and spending hours figuring out my answers, I came up with this.....

1. If a movie was being made of your life who would you like to be cast to play yourself? and why?
2. You are spending a whole month on a desert island for charity and you have to choose your favourite celebrity to spend the first two weeks with & your least favourite celebrity to spend the second two weeks with, who would they be & why?
3. What are your three favourite crafting products?
4. If you could invent something to do anything what do you think it would be?
5. What are the last three books that you read?
6. Qvc or create & Craft?
7. Docrafts or Dovecraft or DCWV?
8. What is your claim to fame?

1. If a movie was being made of your life who would you like to be cast to play yourself? and why?
I would choose Sandra Bullock..the reason being she seems very down to earth, abit girl next door and doesnt let fame affect her too much..I too would prefer to stay out of the limelight but look nothing like her unfortunately!
2. You are spending a whole month on a desert island for charity and you have to choose your favourite celebrity to spend the first two weeks with & your least favourite celebrity to spend the second two weeks with, who would they be & why?
My favourite celebrity would be Ewan Mcgregor because he was so cool in The Long Way Down .Im sure he would have great survival skills and he is fab eye candy!..I have a big dislike for Bruce Willis so he is my choice for the second two weeks.
3. What are your three favourite crafting products?
They are...ribbon, Bazzil cardstock and my guillotine
4. If you could invent something to do anything what do you think it would be?
Something to magic all my craft stash away after I have finished making a card. I have to craft on the dining room table and HATE having to put everything away when its dinner time or bedtime!
5. What are the last three books that you read?
Peter Kay, Chris Moyles and I cant remember before that as all my spare time is taken up by craft.....
6. Qvc or create & Craft?
Qvc
7. Docrafts or Dovecraft or DCWV?
DCWV
8. What is your claim to fame?
I`m a Pop Star........only joking! I once saw Nicky Clarke (hair dresser) and Sienna Miller coming out of the Ivy in London....shame I didnt know who she was at the time!

Thanks for making me sit here for hours pondering over my answers...I will now have to give this task to 4 other people.
I choose......the problem is everyone I know has already been tagged!
So if you are reading this and havent already done it , consider yourself tagged!.......

Back Soon...

2008-04-18T19:30:00.004+01:00

I`m going to my SIL Kerry`s for the weekend. Yipeeeee!
You may wonder why this is so exciting....well we are both crafters!
We will probably talk craft for most of the time, I`ll get to look through her stash and usually get through at least one bottle of wine while we are at it.
I will hopefully be back with some cards sometime next week but its back to work on Monday after 2 weeks off......This means it may take a while to get back into the swing of things.
So I hope you all have a happy weekend, I`m sure I will.

One For Kerry...

2008-04-16T15:47:00.003+01:00

This is my go at using the image Kerry kindly donated on her blog. I was a bit unsure of how to colour him but soon got into it. Thanks again to Kerry for the image, anyone else had a go yet?

Left Overs...

2008-04-16T11:20:00.003+01:00

I made this little card using the left overs from my Moms birthday card. I`m sure it will come in handy for someone! I have decided to try and use bits left over straight away as they get put in a folder and forgotton about. I hope I can keep it up!

Two More..

2008-04-16T11:09:00.006+01:00

These two cards I was just playing about with a bargain stamp I got for 99p!

I am struggling at the moment with the main image on my cards. I would like to invest in some stamps but cant decide what to go with. I am on a budget so want to make the right decision. I need something that is versatile really so that I can use them for different occassions. I love all your cards made with Bella, Sugar Nellie etc. Any help or advice please???

Cards...At Last!

2008-04-16T10:59:00.006+01:00

I have finally had an afternoon of cardmaking and I so enjoyed it! This card is for my Moms birthday, I have used the butterfly stamps by Blonde Moments that she bought me for Christmas.

I`m Back!

2008-04-13T18:20:00.002+01:00

Got back from sunny Bournemouth yesterday and I have to say we all had a thoroughly FAB time.Did loads and spent loads.... I have spent most of my time washing since I got back so I have finally sat down to see what everyone has been up to.

First I`d like to congratulate Kerry on winning Vicki`s Bling competition, what a gorgeous card! I`d also like to say thanks for Marshalls `Cowboy` birthday card, he was very impressed and so was I.
I have also wasted away 2 hours looking at other peoples blogs, there are so many fab blogs out there I get carried away clicking on links and before you know it I`m lost.....
I have another week at home before going back to work so I am looking forward to some well earned craft time..

Having A Mad Day...

2008-04-04T15:35:00.003+01:00

Going on hols tomorrow so running around like a headless chicken trying to pack. Just sat down for a quick coffee and thought I`d let you know I won`t be around for a while. Our schools have finished today for 2 weeks so going on a caravan holiday to Bournemouth for a week. Shame it may snow this weekend!...oh well it should be a laugh. Hopefully I will get to do some crafting the second week (once I`ve caught up with the washing) so will be back on with some cards. I cant believe how addictive this blogging is, I may get withdrawals lol....

So Black and White

2008-04-01T18:11:00.002+01:00

After seeing Vicki`s gorgeous black and white cards it inspired me to use the same for my friends birthday card. I used my Fab scalloped edge punch and Studio G clear stamps.

Happy Birthday Kerry!

2008-04-01T16:30:00.011+01:00

Happy Birthday to my fab Sil Kerry!....

It`s so hard making a card for someone who makes such beautiful cards themselves.

I got these papers from Craftwork Cards well before christmas but new I wanted to save them for someone special. So here was my chance....

So pleased my dear Brother-in-law has taken you out, you so deserve it!

The Blues..

2008-03-30T19:20:00.007+01:00

Just two quickies I did yesterday. Didn`t go quite as expected???

You may have noticed I`m really into blue at the moment.

Does anyone else have colour fads?

Nikki's Card Creations: 15,000 hits Blog Candy

2008-03-30T15:39:00.004+01:00

Nikki's Card Creations: 15,000 hits Blog Candy

I`ve Had It Off!....

2008-03-29T16:24:00.000Z

...My cast that is!

I have had my left hand in plaster for the past six weeks after falling and fracturuing my thumb.

No I wasn`t drunk! It has been so frustrating not being able to do stuff ,I am so happy to finally be free of it. Trouble is it still hurts a bit so will still struggle to make cards properly. My hubby has had to help me tie ribbon on the last couple I made, he was not impressed....

Hope to do some crafting tomorrow.

You Make My Day Award

2008-03-28T17:57:00.000Z

I have received this award from both Kerry and vicki.......Thank you so much ladies.

After finally figuring out how to do this....

For this award I would like to nominate.....in no particular order!

Left Handed Blonde

Pickle

Nikki

I have come across these 3 blogs this week and think they deserve this award for being an inspiration...x

Do Not Disturb!

2008-03-27T19:09:00.000Z

I`m a little worried about this one....
I was very privaliged to be given one of Kerry`s doodles. The trouble is I was really worried I would mess it up or not do it justice. I sat looking at it for so long then finally used my whispers pens to colour it. I was very nervous as I have not done much colouring in of images.
I used denim effect papers with some bazzil card and bottle top embellishment.
The layout is from the sketch that vicki has on her blog (thanks).
Hope you like it Kez....x

Dino-Mite

2008-03-25T18:40:00.001Z

Another card for my son, this time from his big brother. I got the stamp in a bargain bin at the NEC for £1. The backing paper is stamped and I used whispers pens to do the main image.

I havent done much stamping but definately want to do more!

My 1st Card!

2008-03-24T19:32:00.000Z

It`s taken me a while but I am finally getting into this....

A big thanks to Kerry for her help, I am phoning her with all sorts of questions.

I have made this card for my Son`s 5th birthday.

I really like using red, white and blue for boys.

I`m actually here...I think!

2008-03-23T18:49:00.000Z

I can`t believe I have done this, I am so hopeless with computers!...
Well here goes.....

My sil (Curly Girly Me) has told how she has got herself a blog and is totally hooked.
Although I never seem to have enough hours in the day, I thought I`d give it a go.
I have a gallery on Docrafts but will now be putting my efforts on here. (if I can do it!

Wish me luck....x