Zuzu's Petals 'n' Stuff

Craft Stamper: Buried Treasure.

2012-01-28T14:23:00.005Z

The Craft Stamper has arrived with many subscribers today, so it should hit the shops soon. I have a feature in there showing you how to make a very textured frame (the texture will work on anything not just a frame). I hope the step by step instructions are clear enough, but if you have any further questions on the project, dont hesitate to ask. If you leave a comment on my facebook page I will always get back to you.

Quick little notebook: For Calico Crafts

2012-01-26T23:22:00.004Z

Super fast notebook made out of scrapbook papers and some printer paper. other than that, I used four rubons and some distress ink.

For More details and for products used, take a wee look at the Calico Crafts blog HERE

Calico Crafts: Design Team launch.

2012-01-23T12:43:00.002Z

Well the new Design team blog has been launched for Calico Crafts HERE. I have the pleasure of being the "design team coordinator" , so I am really looking forward to seeing the projects appearing.We have been concentrating on a small preset list of topics for January and February; like Valentines day, Robert Burns day, Chinese new year... My first project has a very oriental feel, although the supplies used where not particularly oriental they still seemed to lend themselves to the theme. I simply had to add a few metal embellishments to help portray the theme.As one sheet of 12x12 was more than enough to cover this lovely wee jewellery box, i had s0me left over and rather than waste it, I made it in to a matching tag. Depending on the pattern of your paper, you could probably have enough left for two tags, but as i wanted to put the birds in very particular places of the box, i didn't get the most economical cutting pattern possible. still, a box completely covered and a lovely big tag from one sheet of scrapbook paper cant be bad.

List of supplies used from Calico Crafts.

Wooden Box HERE

Sheet of 12x12 scrapbook paper; The one I used is HERE. It's Calico Crafts own design from the Vintage Decor Primitive range.

Gold metal leaf HERE

Ornamental dagger charm HERE

Feather butterflies HERE

Bird charm HERE

Americana Spray varnish HERE

More flooded pocketwatches:

2012-01-19T00:01:00.002Z

Made some more of these flooded pocketwatches. Just a brief post to share. I got a job lot of broken vintage and retro jewellery on ebay a few weeks back so i had a chance to dig in and see what there was.. and OMG I LOVE the bird. I have the watch up for sale in folksy but I am seriously reconsidering LOL.

Chunky ATC made for KAtzelkraft.

2012-01-16T19:46:00.004Z

I have been loving my friend Paula's Chunky ATC's recently and decided to try and make one in my sort of style... Not as easy as I imagined. Its a lot of small surfaces and i find small surfaces tricky (not counting dominoes).Anyway, in the end I made this, using the Da Vinci Stamps By Katzelkraft. there are two plates and I used some from both as well as using the single stamp with the steampunk cogs on it.

Stamps Used..

Da Vinci Joconde HERE

Vinci Vitruve HERE

Single Steampunk Engrenage HERE

Customers in the UK can find Katzelkraft stamps exclusively at The Craft Barn

As this is one of my favourite Sets of stamps ever, I am entering it for the Gingersnap Creations Chestnut challenge HERE
And its not a card so I can enter it in to the Simon Says Stamp and Show. HERE

Vinegar and Brown Paper:

2012-01-16T02:33:00.003Z

Vinegar and Brown Paper... Well not Quite but not far off. More like Glue and brown paper...

All you need here is, Glue, 7Gypsies decorative tissue paper, (Available from Calico Crafts HERE) and some embellishments.
(A few touches of chalk ink and gold gilt wax on the edges helped age it a bit more)
The nice thing about these decorative tissue papers is , you can cover any shaped surface with them... If a bit tears or is an awkward curve, you just need to tear a random piece off and layer it on top. a bit like doing Papier-mâché .

This was a simple Papier-mâché glasses case and very curved, but it didnt take long to cover it in tissue.
Once the glue has dried, you can varnish it if you wish. then simply glue a selection of metal embellishments on to it.

commissions and such

2012-01-14T16:19:00.004Z

Well I still have nothing much to blog.. It probably looks like I have been a slacker...

I have made a fair bit but it consists of two items for a magazine, two items for design team pieces not due to be shown till next week and 4 items for commission sales... (and a little box that i haven't shown before but its much like many others). Now making some flooded pocketwatches (also on commission) but again they look much like all the others... so here is a picture of the commissioned pencil box (you have seen others much like it in the past...) and a random cufflink or ipod box. just because :)

domino gears: Another Web Extra for Craft stamper.

2012-01-11T03:08:00.006Z

Altered Dominoes done in a steampunk style... these were originally made for crafty individuals in the craft stamper ideas gallery.

This is the last of the Web Extras I am allowed to show at this time. hope you enjoyed them. And I hope to have something new to share soon.

Autumn glory: web extra for Craft stamper.

2012-01-10T01:38:00.000Z

Here is another project shown on Web Extra ( a section in the Craft Stamper Blog, that shares brief instructions on how to make items shown in the ideas gallery.)
Today I am sharing the piece I had in the gallery for "Autumn glory", first published in August 2011. the instructions can be found HERE in the "Autumn glory" section.

Its called "family tree" and the stamps are all by paperbag studio.

Animal Magic. Web Extra For Craft stamper.

2012-01-09T02:21:00.007Z

I have only just discovered that Craft Stamper allow us to share our own projects on our blogs, that have been shown on their web extra. This is good news, as i haven't made anything in a week, that I can actually show you. The only two project I have done are for the magazine... so rather than leave the blog neglected, I am going to start sharing my Web Extra projects.
Web Extra is a section on their blog, that gives brief instructions for projects shown in the magazines ideas gallery.
The one I am sharing today was from their "Animal Magic" Gallery, first published in July 2011. I used Crafty Individuals stamps on mine and made an altered key cabinet.

Its in a colour theme I am very fond of and its not often I find following a colour scheme I didnt choose myself very easy. but this is a scheme I would choose and have in the past. Duck egg blue, brown and cream.
Actually the project I just finished for the magazine today is the same colour scheme :)

Brief instructions are given on the relevant web extra section.

Happy New Year and a sneak peek.

2012-01-06T20:47:00.007Z

Happy New Year people. I am a bit late... suffered a wee bit home damage in the recent storms so not really been able to craft.. But will be getting back to it this coming week. Its going to be a busy few months for me (craft wise) as I have a new Design Team to help launch, Some work to do for the Craft stamper in my new roll on the design team, as well as my work for my usual lovely design teams.

Talking of the Craft Stamper Magazine, and my usual design teams; there is a piece in the ideas Gallery this month, made on behalf of Craft Individuals. Its a shadow box that opens and closes... I cant show you the inside here, as that's whats in the Magazine, but I can show you the outside.So here it is... If you want to know how the inside looks then I am afraid you will have to get hold of a cop of the Mag. The theme was LOVE and the colours we had to use were turquoise , pink and read.... I dont mind admitting I felt quite worried when I heard the colours... I only do two colour schemes.. all turquoise and ocean.. or rust LOL. But I got it done and I enjoyed the challenge. And as well as that piece there is the folded concertina card on a single page of its own....
sneak peak again...I had shown this piece, briefly, before on my blog as it had "gone missing" at Craft Stamper HQ.. however it was found hiding in with one of my other projects. The editor (Katy Fox) decided she would like to use it anyway and simply asked if I could take it back off of my blog... so some of you will have seen this before.

Z x

See you next year.

2011-12-12T17:11:00.003Z

Well here is my sitting room. ready for the holiday. I hope all who celebrate this holiday, from whatever belief or view, have a good one and may all who dont, have a safe and peaceful December.

See you in January. x

Last of the commission orders for Christmas.

2011-12-07T16:19:00.005Z

I can breath again lol. I have completed all my commitments (bar one Design team piece) for December. what a relief. I can stop crafting now (unless i get the urge) and concentrate on the baking and cooking yummy stuff.
the Pocket-Watches are for my friend who makes designer jewellery... she adapts them to fit her jewellery and they seem to sell really well as its only 6 weeks since she bought her last lot.

the bookmarks are for a friend. shes giving them to family as stocking fillers. Wont use names in case the recipients are bloggers. ;)

Wrap it up: For Crafty Individuals.

2011-12-01T10:30:00.003Z

The blog challenge theme, over at the "Crafty Individuals" blog this month, is "Wrap it up". gift wrapping... bags, tags, boxes, paper etc etc.... I re-purposed a box I received toiletries in last year...I used three sheets of the christmas 6x6 papers (the ones with the angels on to compliment the stamp) the stamp on the tag is one of the set of 4 angels CI-12.

The same but different: Designed using Katzelkraft stamps

2011-11-25T17:12:00.003Z

I havent had time to stock up my wee folksy shop after almost selling out at my last craft fair, as I have a lot of commissions to make before christmas; customers emailing in and asking for specific items, or copies of items I have made before.
One Customer asked for two little boxes on the theme of Paris.
She wants them for her daughters so they have to be similar enough so they feel equal, but different enough so they dont feel they are getting the same. As the customer said, "can they be the same, but different?" .

So here are the two boxes... Similar but not the same.

Off topic: Steampunk fun.

2011-11-19T20:35:00.005Z

I was at a gig in Birmingham last weekend; 4 steampunk bands were playing. The main artists were the wonderful and dramatic "Ghostfire". As I have been on holiday (so have no craft to share) I thought I would share a few of the steampunk event photos with you, with Mike and I in costume.

Penny-Farthing box: Katzelkraft:

2011-11-07T15:57:00.003Z

Here is YET ANOTHER box... lol. (its what I sell most of so its what I make most of.
This is another one made using the Penny-farthing Katzelkraft stamp ( I love it). I also used some little clock stamps (also by Katzelcraft). Katzelkraft stamps are available in the UK exclusively at "The Craft Barn".... And of course from Katzelkraft direct.
The actual box is also available at "The Craft Barn".

Ocean chest: Designed for Katzelkraft.

2011-11-04T01:44:00.001Z

This is one of the wooden chests from the craft barn altered using texture paste, alcohol inks, embossing crystals and treasure gold wax polish (amongst other things) and it features the stamp "Caravelle" . Customers in the UK can get katzelkraft stamps, exclusively at the Craft Barn.

Craft fair tags (using Katzelkraft stamps.)

2011-11-03T10:45:00.000Z

These are just some fast gift tags made for a craft fair. nothing fancy.. just stamp and go :) (maybe add some glitter here and there.). I just have to add the ribbon or string.

Travel chest: Made for Katzelkraft.

2011-11-02T18:40:00.002Z

Travel Chest; made for Katzelkraft. Katzelkraft stamps are also available in the UK exclusively at "The Craft Barn".
Stamps used:
Transportation.
Steampunk Engrenage.
Le temps.

The wooden box is from Calico Crafts set of 4.

Tuesday and Katzelkraft Day. Mecanique tags.

2011-11-01T15:40:00.006Z

One large decorative tag and 4 small "Quickies".
the Large tag is my piece for Katzelkraft this week but as I have a craft fair this month I like to have a basket of gift tags on sale. so every time I get a stamp out to make an item I am also making a few simple tags before packing them away. I need to decide if i put in string, ribbon or woolly fibres though. I used Versamagic chalk inks for the backgrounds and black stazon for the main images.For those of you in the UK, you can buy Katzelkraft stamps exclusively from The Craft Barn. you can also get the Versamagic chalk inks there and the black stazon.

Mother goose. Altered box for Calico Crafts.

2011-10-30T01:53:00.002+01:00

Made using Calico Craft products listed below.

Papers: Graphic 45 ABC Primer Collection
Box from the set of 4 Domed lid rectangular.
Little metal crown.
Modpodge.

Little lantern: Designed for ARTChix

2011-10-29T20:50:00.003+01:00

I had a little square glass Tea-light candle holder and decided to jazz it up a bit, using the little wooden houses and acetate images Helga, of ARTChix, sent to me this week.

If you dont have a glass holder then you can get little battery operated fake tea-lights for safety. You can find the little houses HERE and the images HERE.

Craft Barn Design Piece 4: Katzelkraft.

2011-10-25T00:01:00.003+01:00

Well here is my last Design team piece as "Octobers" guest designer for the Craft Barn. Its a TANDO printers tray frame altered to look like an Egyptian artefact collection. It is also a Calender to match the ongoing theme over there. For more information on how it was made and a list of products used, please visit the Craft Barn blog. :)

Thank you again to The Craft Barn, for inviting me over there for the month. it was a great pleasure.

Craft Barn Guest designer week 3

2011-10-23T06:42:00.004+01:00

Today I have made a simple (but hopefully effective), little box. I used the Katzelcraft Capital landmarks stamp on it. love that little stamp. very useful. I have been putting it along the bottom of luggage tags recently for a friend who is going on a trip.

Please do pop over to the Craft Barn Blog for details on materials used etc.

Craft Barn Design Piece 2

2011-10-16T00:01:00.000+01:00

Here is my second piece made for The Craft Barn. I have used the lovely Paris monuments stamps made by Katzelkraft for this box. My regular visitors will recognise this stamped and textured style of box as my favourite thing to make. :)
Pop over to The Craft Barn Blog if you need more details on how to make it and what I used.

Thanks for visiting
Z x

In Fond Memory:

2011-10-14T12:40:00.003+01:00

A dear Craft friend has died. A woman who was an upfront,down to earth, decent and warm hearted friend. Met in a craft forum 7 years ago and known originally to me only as Lazy Kay.
she dabbled in lots of crafting styles from paper craft,wool, baking, floral.... everything always made with great thought.
She had mad net surfing skills and would find us almost any item we had been searching for. makes me smile to think of it. the "links" expert.

Funeral is on the 18th. How I wish there were not so many miles between us.

Dearest Kath. you will be missed.
Z x

Craft Barn Design Piece 1

2011-10-09T00:09:00.001+01:00

Well its my first post as the guest designer at The Craft Barn. the theme there is calenders and although I might not manage to make every piece a calender, I have started with one.
The theme is Crafty Individuals this week and its the calender month MAY.

Here it is with the calender substituted with a metal decorative Dragonfly.

For more details and for a list of products used, please go take a visit to the Craft Barn Blog.

Guest Designer at the Craft Barn all October.

2011-10-02T00:01:00.004+01:00

Well I was delighted to be offered the Inspirational Blog award From the Craft Barn this month. They pick from people who's work they like and that leave regular comments on their blog.

But as if that wasnt cool enough I was also asked to be a Guest Designer for the month of October.
Today is just an introduction but I will be sharing 4 projects over the month of October using supplies available at "The Craft Barn".
Hope to see you there.

Groundhog Da Vinci.

2011-09-30T16:19:00.003+01:00

You may feel you have seen this before. you are ALMOST correct. I did make one very similar a while back and it sold on folksy, the very same day that someone else went in to buy it. So this one is on commission. Its a little different to the first one as its to be used to keep a pocketwatch in, so it has some reclaimed pocketwatch cogs and parts on the lid.Its made using the Katzelkraft DaVinci stamps. I'm very very fond of those stamps.

story book box: for the Artistic Stamper

2011-09-28T00:05:00.001+01:00

It's My last day as guest designer for The Artistic Stamper. Please go take a wee look at the project if you have time and leave a comment. comments are always appreciated.

Flooded Steampunk pocketwatch.

2011-09-26T19:16:00.003+01:00

Another pocket watch case that has been filled with reclaimed jewellery, beads, pocket watch cogs and wrist watch parts.

And the winner is.....

2011-09-26T11:31:00.004+01:00

I used random.org to generate a number. the comments were numbered as follows.
1 to 25 were the blog comments
26 to 36 were the facebook comments.

random.org chose the number 18

i counted down to the 18th comment and that was from Fuchsia

Lynn if you would care to email me at zuzuspetals62@hotmail.com with your postal address I will get the goodies sent off. I have a few crafty individuals 6 x 6 papers to add to it so hope they are of use.

thanks everybody for showing support and joining in
Z x

A little bit of this and that

2011-09-22T14:13:00.005+01:00

Well, the lovely lady (Louise Pringle of eclectic shock) who buys my altered dominoes and watches to incorporate in to her jewellery creations is coming round soon to get new stock so as I have next to none lol I have been making those. Also have my last project done for the Artistic stamper but you cant see that untill the 28th lol.
The jewellery isnt very exciting. its more of the same really. She loved the dominoes with the Crafty Individuals bird cage with the added bird charms so I made her three of those. And I have made two collage pocket watches. One of a sailor (top of the page) the other of a mermaid. The mermaid one still requires embellishments added tot he outside loop though. here it is so far to let you see. the images are as always, from ARTChix.Of course I will probably put them in Folksy on the off chance they sell there before she comes and can make more for her.

Thank you 'giveaway'...

2011-09-21T12:20:00.005+01:00

I meant to do this when I reached 200 followers on my blog but that happened and went, then I decided to do it when I reached 50,000 visits but again that happened and time got away from me. SO... I am doing in now as I just reached 100 followers on my new facebook page.

Its a giveaway to say thank you to my followers, who I have to say have offered me the most wonderful warm support over the last year or more. Leaving comments, emailing, taking the online classes, saying hello on my facebook page... I appreciate every single comment I get very much.
This giveaway is for my followers so if you dont follow the blog or the facebook page then you wont be counted. If you are a follower then please just leave a comment so i can put your name in the proverbial hat ( I will probably use a random number generator). If you follow both the blog here AND the facebook page you can leave a comment in both places and get two entries :)

The stamps are by kind permission of Jean from Crafty Individuals
The wooden shapes (bauble, snowman, gingerbread man) are from Helen at Calico Crafts
The Seahorse, mini arch and bird shapes are from ARTChix
and the brass look charms are from me lol...

Thank you all and I look forward to continuing to hear from you and share ideas with you here and in facebook.

Closes for comments on Sunday 25th Sep midnight (Scotland UK time )

Old Navigators Box. For Calico Crafts

2011-09-18T22:17:00.003+01:00

Well I liked the map paper so much that ive gone and covered a cheese box with some. stained it up a bit more with vintage photo distress ink and added some gold gilt wax polish (as well as a vintage optical lens and a metal Aeroplane embellishment.).
the paper is by 7 gypsies and is available from Calico Crafts HERE.

Phileas Fogg's Map holder. Designed for Calico Crafts

2011-09-16T16:36:00.003+01:00

Helen from Calico Crafts sent me this little door hanger container. I decided to put it together with some of the 7 gypsies papers I bought from her, and create this vintage looking map holder.
the metal corner embellishments and the metal ring (a part from an old pocket watch) were from my own personal stash.
It shows how easy it is to get a nice looking wee item with just some paper and glue. I added the papers with glue then used some "Vintage photo" distress ink. I applied it with some of the blending pads... then I put a coat of Mod Podge on it. after that its was just a case of sticking on some nice bits of metal.

little bit of halloween fun. for Calico crafts.

2011-09-16T14:39:00.003+01:00

I was given the task of making a Halloween decoration for a home that has kids. (drat so I cant scare them to death with it then?). So i came up with this quick and fun little hanging using a selection of items from Calico Crafts. As you can probably see its raining here so there are rain blobs all over the item (sorry about that)
I used a picket fence wooden shape, a round shape (its meant to be a christmas bauble lol but it got "altered". I used some of the driftwood twigs, the fake moss, some ivy leaves and the red berries are from a berry garland. all from Calico craft. the pumpkin image on top of the round wooden shape is a vintage image I simply printed out. I used mod podge to protect the paper of the printed pumpkin.
the black cat is an eco shape cat from ARTChix.

Time machine Oil: Altered Bottle: SSSS steampunk.

2011-09-14T16:38:00.010+01:00

I enjoyed making my steampunk bottle of oil (special time machine oil) for the Artistic stamper at the beginning of the month... And as it happened Jennie (The owner) loved it too. but as I couldn't bare to part with it then I decided to make another smaller version.... Here it is. its about half the size of the original.
I think its appropriately steampunk enough to enter in to Simon Says stamp and show this week...
The stamps can be found in the Steampunk section of the Artistic stamper Stamps.

Explorer's journal; Designed for The Artistic Stamper:

2011-09-14T00:15:00.005+01:00

Sneak Peek:I am Guest Designer over at "The Artistic Stamper" creative team blog this month. This is a sneek peak of my second piece. I would be really grateful if you could pop over and take a look (and maybe leave a comment).
Thank you
Z x

Tags for Katzelkraft and Alter It Monthly.

2011-09-09T12:22:00.007+01:00

Please click on photo to enlarge (shows up the glitter better too lol)
I made this quick set of tags today using my new Arbres stamps from Katzelkraft. very simply done but so pretty. I did some with a gradient effect with chalk inks starting with snowy white at the bottom and working up to midnight blue... some just two tone white and sky blue and some just a highlight of blue on the edges.
I stamped these pretty little christmas trees (or / and snowflakes) on in permanent ink then using a fine paint brush and some slightly thinned down glue i highlighted areas and sprinkled them with clear crystal fine glitter. You cant see the full effect in the photo but they are very very frosty and twinkly. I attached some crystal like leaf effect trim to the bottom of some and punched decorative corners in others.
As they are trees they also fit the theme over at Alter It Monthly this month. there is a fab goody box being offered up by Calico Crafts to a winner chosen by random number generator. so all you have to do is be in it to win it.

Stamps available from Katzelkraft and also from the Craft Barn in the UK.

ARTChix Tomb stones

2011-09-09T07:51:00.000+01:00

I couldnt resist turning one of these little eco tomb stones, from ARTChix, in to a goth pendant as part of my costume for halloween. I am going to a victorian themed Ghost night at a mining museum. The museum is actually the old coal mine with shafts and machine rooms etc to visit. We then get to go to the tearoom and enjoy some wine and ghost stories. lol. I will be using my steampunk costume as it is victorian in style but just leaving out the steampunky accessories like goggles etc but adding this spooky pendant.

The little bronze toned skull can be found at Calico Crafts.

An early start. Designed for Katzelkraft

2011-09-08T20:18:00.001+01:00

When working for design teams you kind of HAVE to be a bit early with christmas makes. you need to show the items in lots of time to let people see them, decide if they want the stamps (or supplies), get them ordered, wait on delivery and then still have time to make all your cards and tags before christmas. (especially if you sell at craft fairs in november)
Can you tell I am pathing the way with excuses for bringing you christmas Items so soon? :)

Both of these boxes were made using stamps from Katzelkraft. These Stamps are also available in the UK from the Craft Barn.

Gold leaf distressing technique.

2011-09-08T20:14:00.006+01:00

A lot of people have asked how I get the shabby chic / distressed look when i use gold leaf. Those who have been doing my online tutorials will all ready know this as it was included in the "altered Boxes" class. I have added this part of the workshop to my facebook page for those who have asked. its so easy to do.The rest of the workshop on how I do some of my altered boxes is still available only to those who wish to pay for the full class. (there is a link in my side bar to take you to the information on these)

Z x

Craft Stamper Ideas Gallery: Autumn Glory.

2011-09-02T13:55:00.002+01:00

Just Another "Sneak Peek" I'm afraid. to see the whole thing you must buy the "Craft Stamper" magazine. The gallery theme this month is "Autumn Glory" - Trees and leaves with an autumn feel.
Mine is more of a family tree really but the colours are autumnal. If anyone has questions about the project that are not covered in the "Web Extra" on the craft stamper web site then don't hesitate to ask.

Phineas Pinchbeck's Time Machine Oil. For the Artistic Stamper.

2011-09-02T00:01:00.000+01:00

Sneak Peek:I am guest Designer over at "The Artistic Stamper" Creative Team Blog this month. looking forward to it. My First project is posted. Please go over and take a wee look and leave a comment.
Z x

Hanging around: For Crafty Individuals.

2011-09-01T22:00:00.002+01:00

Over on the Crafty Individuals blog, this months challenge is titled "hanging around".
I recently received the new stamps and among them was the church and crow stamp CI-139 (love it). I also had this plain clear glass hanging ornament that was the same shape as the church windows so thought the two might go well together. So here is my glass window hanging. It looks great at the window but was impossible to photograph like that so instead i simply had to lie it on a piece of white paper.
I have given a brief step by step of how it was made on my facebook page (but its pretty self explanatory I think). Thanks for stopping by. Please go take a look at the Crafty Individuals blog and maybe join in the challenge. it has a wide scope for anything that hangs (canvas, wall hanging, tag) or simply for friends hanging around together... lazy days of hanging around. its your interpretation that counts.

Alter It Monthly: Tree, Leaf, Branch, Twig...

2011-09-01T12:20:00.005+01:00

Over at "Alter It Monthly" this month, the theme is; Tree, Leaf, Branch, Twig...
I made this gift box for a friend and it fits the theme I think....
Please go join in if you have time. Anything with a tree or leaf type theme is acceptable. altered items include alterd tags and ATCs etc so no need to hold back because you think you dont "do" altered art.
There is a prize from Calico Crafts this month for one winner chosen at random by the random number generator. You have to be in it to win it as they say ;)

Here are a couple more prompts for the theme...

A Simple ATC:
A Shadow frame with Stamping.

An altered wooden Woodland Box:

Rusty tile Book (and SSSS)

2011-08-31T16:51:00.005+01:00

A while back, my crafty friend Gillian gave me a couple of rusty tiles to use for some project or another. I haven't been overly inventive with them so far but I do love them. So today I decided to make 2 in to book covers for an ongoing project. its ongoing because i intend to add more pages but am adding them in bundles of 4 at the moment.
As the themes for Simon says stamp and Simon says stamp and show are "anything goes", then I am entering this. Its probably the only theme it will ever fit lol.

The Case of "Paris Vs London"; Designed for Calico Crafts

2011-08-30T16:03:00.008+01:00

Altered Case for Calico Crafts. The title is a no-brainer for me.. Paris would easily win.
This was made in the same way as the little one I made a couple of weeks ago. It's got the 7 Gypsies lille papers ( I have a 6x6 booklet). I attached the papers and the cut out bits of paper with Mod Podge. the trim around the edge was bought in a cake decorating shop about 3 years ago.
The cases can be found HERE.
And here it is pictured with the small one so you can see the comparison in size. The large one uses the Paris themed Papers and the small one mostly used the Union Jack UK papers (I'm Scottish but they didnt have any Scottish papers sadly lol) .

Da Vinci Unfolded. Designed for Katzelkraft.

2011-08-28T21:19:00.007+01:00

I have no idea what you call these things so its just a folded thingy. I have used the Da Vinci stamp sets from Katzelkraft, also available in the UK from The Craft Barn.
For brief instructions on how to measure out, cut and fold this project I will be posting them on to my facebook page. any questions then please just ask.

FaceBook and a little tutorial:

2011-08-23T11:02:00.007+01:00

Hi everyone. I have a facebook page and have done for a few years. My family and close friends used to leave messages there for me and chat to me but recently they have become alienated by the overwhelming amount of craft related conversation and images there. I have 234 friends of which I think only 40 are actual family and friends. SO.... in order to make my personal account personal again and make it less intimidating for my real family and close friends, I have opened a "page".
I am asking all my crafting buddies and followers, if they would mind going to "like" that page instead of being on my personal page.
It means I can give more detail on how a thing was made as well as giving me a chance to chat to you directly about crafts and life. As a starter I have added a little tutorial for an easy ATC folder. (easy but pretty).
You can find the page HERE. I have only just opened it so its a bit empty and only has me there so far lol. but it will fill up soon.
hope to see you there and invite your craft friends (she said hopefully lol)For the tutorial simply go to and "like" the page. its easily viewed from there in the photo albums...
Zx

Work space. (well,the neat part)

2011-08-22T15:07:00.004+01:00

So I promised to show a photo of my work space. I have taken it from the neatest angle I could LOL and totally excluded all the drawers and things that are behind the chairs and all the boxes on the floor and under the tables ... Its for the best. its all too scary and messy except the desk area.
So anyway, here it is... You can click on the image to make it larger and nose around. The four chairs is me being optimistic that I will actually have people round to craft with me LOL.

Just don't look BEHIND YOU!!!

All things Bright and Beautiful.

2011-08-18T12:05:00.004+01:00

Bright and Beautiful is the theme this month over on the Crafty Individuals blog. I'm not a dab hand at bright colours. you may have noticed... however I gave it a go. I decided to think of the song and aim at the "all creatures" bit by featuring butterflies.
this is an acetate card with Crafty individuals background paper layered underneath. it has a crafty individuals stamped image and some crafty individuals butterfly images cut out and glued on for a 3D effect.

Coasters and Keyring: Designed for Katzelkraft.

2011-08-17T14:07:00.003+01:00

Some coasters and a keyring made using clear acrylic shapes (thank you Val) and Katzelkraft Paris stamps.
these stamps are also available from The Craft Barn in the UK.

Mini travel case: Designed for Calico Crafts.

2011-08-07T21:50:00.004+01:00

Helen from Calico Crafts sent me a few things to have a look at and try out. Some of it is just in and may not be in the shop just yet (but will be soon).
I started out with this teeny little chip board case, about 3.5 inches long. (nice size for postage stamps or cufflinks). I was thinking of making the larger one in to a box of note-letts and the little case can hold my postage stamps. handy for just writing out thank you notes, pop in the envelope and you have a stamp handy for attaching to post.
Just recovering my health from something so not in "prolific crafting" mode as yet so this was a great wee size to play with.
The paper used is from the 7 gypsies 6x6 book of papers from the lille collection. The case only used one sheet to cover it and there were still scraps left over for something else.

Renaissance Tag: Designed for Katzelkraft (SSSS)

2011-08-02T00:43:00.011+01:00

Hi there. Well at last I have felt able to sit and craft. It feels like forever since I was last able (3 weeks). I made this tag for Katzelcraft using both the Da Vinci sets I have. Vinci Joconde and Vinci Vutuvre. (also available in the UK from the Craft barn). The main image of Mona is stamped on to a sheet of Mica and surrounded with a frame made from friendly plastic in various colours but predominantly red green and gold. the frame had shapes pressed in to it while it was warm and I used Treasure gold gilt wax polish to highlight the raised areas. I also stamped the word "renaissance" on to a piece of mica. The background of the tag also has some of the Vinci stamps on it. And the theme at Simon Says Stamp and Show this week is "Show a TAG" so I am joining in with this one here.I would like to thank my friend Val of Bedecked Beads for giving me the wonderful gift of a huge bundle of craft goodies. the Mica, the tassel and the friendly plastic were all given to me by her. Thank you Val. x

Alter it monthly reminder.

2011-08-01T17:04:00.002+01:00

For August over at Alter It Monthly we have the theme "Sirens and the deep blue sea". (doesnt have to be blue lol it can be any sea related theme you like and any colour.)
Our Sponsor is Calico collage (who even put together some great collage sheets especially for the theme. I have shown a thumbnail of it here but the real one is in a nice resolution. crystal clear even when blown right up. so do hop over and have a look. maybe get a sheet or two and join in with the theme. Now I am going to go see what I can make using One of these great sheets for myself.

bit of a cheats post.

2011-07-22T17:40:00.006+01:00

I haven't been too well so not been able to craft, but, I am also a "blog-a-holic"so have not enjoyed seeing NOTHING on here for a week lol. I am cheating by just sharing some stuff I made for the craft fair next week... its nothing new or original. a rehash of stuff I've made and sold in the past but it lets you know I didn't just drop off the planet I guess lol :)

Its just a couple of altered pocketwatches. The image in the second one is from ARTChix as are the little rose, the Eiffel tower, the german scrap and the metal "PARIS" charm inside. the key is a Tim Holtz one I think. I just have a box with keys in it so pick what ever seems to fit. I also forgot to do a giveaway when i reached my 200th follower a couple of weeks ago so i will get that sorted when I am feeling all better and back to crafting. In the mean time I hope you are all well and finding time to create when you want to.
Z x

Altered Blackboard and Easel: designed for Calico Crafts.

2011-07-14T13:25:00.010+01:00

This Blackboard and easel was among the goodies Helen sent me this week to have a go at altering. Its actually a sunny day outside!! we haven't had many of these here in scotland and it made me feel all summery at last, hence the seaside beach theme....Items used from Calico Crafts.

Blackboard and Easel:
Moss
Drift wood
Weathered wood crackle medium.

A word about the crackle medium. First heard of this one Via Andy Skinner and he seemed pleased with it and I know he got it from Calico Crafts... so I mentioned i needed a good reliable crackle to Helen who owns and runs calico craft.. as I've tried many popular brands of crackle paints and mediums to try and get the look i want...
Some worked the day i opened the tub but never worked again since... some were temperamental and worked some of the time but not all of the time... some don't work well and give an "almost" crackle effect or only crack in patches... some are so thick you have to plaster it on with a spoon but you only get about two spoonfuls in the pot etc
So if you want a crackle and you want it easy and you want to know it WILL work.. then this is your thing. (this is purely personal opinion here but i am very happy with it.) i will do a larger area of it on something soon so I can show you how it looks. the areas i have used it on to date are either too small to photo , hidden behind a blackboard lol, or are for a friend as a gift so cant show you till she has it lol.

anyway thats all for now. off to go try and clear the craft supplies in to some kind of order so i can move around without killing myself again (takes a day to clean it and one hour to mess it up again.)

Vintage Parlour game of pairs

2011-07-14T00:37:00.006+01:00

Well I finished the last of the "pair" game pieces today. 24 pieces stained, stamped, images glues, distressed, gilt waxed and varnished.... all ready to go in to their presentation box, (shown below)...

These sturdy little wood rectangles were just perfect for it. (going to have little game of it to make sure it works, although its more dependant on my brain working so I expect an "Epic Fail" lol). I am going to start on the rest of the dominoes tomorrow. (the wooden tiles are from Calico Crafts And the images are from ARTChix...)

Oriental lacquered wood effect;designed for Calico crafts.

2011-07-13T17:39:00.005+01:00

Helen, From Calico crafts sent me some solid good quality wood shapes to try out last week. I tried some out by making the vintage games (you may have seen them). today I am trying some of the wood rectangles with the "jagged edges" (although they are not jagged they feel smooth).
they came in two sizes. One and a half inch and three inch.

Firstly I took three of the three inch tall ones and inked them, stamped them then added more colour. I chose the bird stamp I like so much for small projects made by Katzelkraft, as I think it has a great oriental feel to it. once it was all dry I put on a thick coat of glossy varnish ( I used Americana spray sealer and finish ... gloss). This gave it a sort of "Chinese lacquered" look when it was all dry i joined them together with teeny wee hinges. I now have a dolls house sized Chinese tri-fold screen. Personally I will be popping it in to an assemblage at some point along with other little curios. you could also decorate a nice wooden box and simply glue the three panels along the lid. (maybe making the theme red black and gold. for a real Chinese lacquered look.)

For the little "one and a half inch" pieces I have made two little pendants or charms using the same method. (the gloss has made it hard to get a photo of them as its all reflecting back but you get the idea.

Another "House of Curiosities" ...

2011-07-13T09:52:00.005+01:00

Decorated and filled my second little Craft Barn house today. I am starting to fall in love with the two ive done and not sure i can part with them after making them to sell lol. might keep this one and sell the other (or Vice Versa) ...

This one was painted with the bronze paint and blue Patina solution to give a weathered aged look.
Then I just filled it with randomness. Making sure Grandmas old travel trunk was in the attic with a Paris souvenir.

Copper'n'cogs; Gingersnap Creations.

2011-07-13T07:11:00.002+01:00

I had a little box sitting at the bottom of a pile of "things to alter" and decided to give it an old "copper and rivets" Steampunk sort of look. I used an image from an ARTChix digital collage sheet and a couple of the "Eco shape gears" from ARTChix. the paint is from the same folks as do the rust stuff (they have no rust stuff left due to me recommending it to you all and now I have run out LOL ironic haha) .... anyway, I digress... this paint is the copper paint and Green Patina or Verdigris. the little watch parts i have used as sprinkles come from Calico Crafts. i sprinkled them on freely and still have plenty left in the bag. (ps; I would have linked you directly to the items but the site seems to be having an issue right now sorry)

Over at Gingersnap Creations, the theme is"machines, and the supply challenge is Gears, Cogs and Watch parts.. (it was made for me... can I enter my whole blog? lol.. NO? OK well I will enter this as its new...)

Domed mini trunk:Designed for Calico Crafts.

2011-07-12T19:06:00.002+01:00

Helen at Calico Crafts, got a lot of new stock in recently. among it all were these little wooden domed trunks. lovely shape and nice sturdy box.
I used some of the lace, also available at Calico Crafts and some of the 7 gypsies tissue paper, also available at calico crafts.

Venetian triptych: Designed for ARTChix

2011-07-12T01:53:00.006+01:00

Helga, from ARTChix, sent me more samples and they arrived last week. Among them this Venetian Triptych; They are really good quality, sturdy items, made from recycled wood fibre. so smooth so it makes for easy stamping and inking too....

You can also get the German scrap from ARTChix as well as the little metal rose in the centre and the pink collage element in the middle.
The side panels were painted in a copper based paint then coated with a verdigris (green patina) solution. The middle was inked using Versamagic chalk inks, stamped with stazon black then I added the middle panel. I burnished over the pink middle panel with a copper gilt wax polish, then glued the other elements in place. The German scrap was coloured with alcohol inks and allowed to dry before gluing on.

Sold my soul ... (And Altere It Monthly "Dolls")

2011-07-11T14:33:00.005+01:00

So I admit freely to having been heard to say... "If I see one more configuration style item that's just full of Tim Holtz style stuff done in an 'I copied Tim' style, I will scream..." HOWEVER lol, in the interests of money and sales at a craft fair I made one anyway... (how many of you did I just alienate with my big mouth?)
Its a HUGE Cliché but the little house thing was only £2.99 at the craft barn.... Also it has a doll in it so I can use it as a reminder that the theme over at Alter it monthly is "Valley of the Dolls".. altered dolls. art dolls, paper dolls, doll parts, doll images... what ever you see fit to do in the theme.

Box of numbers: Designed for Calico crafts

2011-07-10T17:51:00.000+01:00

I wanted to show you could still use the 7 gypsies tissue paper, (Available HERE at Calico Crafts), if you wanted a lot of colour in your project. It doesn't have to be neutral, although its a lovely vintage brown wrapping look it has as it is...
Anyway here is another altered box. It still has a distressed torn sanded vintage feel to it only its full of turquoise colour. I used more of the tissue as a background so you can see what colour it started as.

Little trinket box with mirror: Designed for Calico Crafts.

2011-07-10T13:39:00.002+01:00

In the box of goodies Helen from Calico crafts sent, was a little chipboard jewellery or make-up box with a mirror in the lid (Available HERE). I had a whole load of ideas for it but when i opened the pack of 7 Gypsies tissue paper she also sent, the neutral simple colours with the delicate eclectic images just got my attention. so ive covered the box with the paper. it was a nice simple make (I took the mirror off before decorating and then reattached it after.)

Vintage steampunk style Games. Designed for Calico Crafts.

2011-07-09T17:54:00.003+01:00

So the other day I made an Altered domino case (Its two posts down)... And today I set about making some vintage games to go inside. Picture Dominoes and the game "pairs". I used solid wooden rectangles from Calico Crafts.

I think handing a set of altered hand made dominoes over in a hand altered box or case would make a fantastic gift. Especially at Christmas when playing games is a main feature of the day for many.For the Dominoes you will need 28 wooden pieces Available HERE. And you will need 7 images each printed out 7 times (or if its not a digital collage sheet you will need 7 sheets of your images.)

Stain the wood pieces, stamp cogs on the back,(This cog stamp is from Katzelkraft,) and then stick your images on to the other side. I distressed them a bit and added gilt wax polish around the edges in a copper tone to make them more vintage, before spraying with Varnish.
I used images from ARTChix.For the game set of "Pairs" you really can make it any size as long as you have two of each image. I Dont think any less than 12 would be much fun unless you are making it a children's set. (be sure to sand and varnish everyting well if its going to be for kids.Of course you can paint the wooden rectangles bright shiny colours and add modern images, nature images, family photos, Alphabets for kids etc.... I just have a tendency toward vintage distressed and steampunky.

Door Knob Hanger: Designed for ARTChix.

2011-07-08T21:40:00.006+01:00

Helga, from ARTChix, sent me some gorgeous seahorses and coral (Among other new items in stock, that I cant wait to use) and as the theme for a craft Lottery I take part in is "Under the sea" then this just seemed ideal as the lotto make MUST include at least one ARTChix product... Sorted!
And here the seahorses and coral are purple (Due to my son and i wanting there to be some purple with the aqua :) )

Altering stuff:

2011-07-08T13:37:00.008+01:00

So a while back I got a little case of dominoes from ebay. I wanted the dominoes, but the case was a bonus. I think its made of wood underneath but then it had wadding and some kind of plastic or PVC material over it. I decided to Alter the case and at first was going to pull all the plastic cover off but then decided to use it as i thought it might do interesting stuff if I heated it.
Please do click on the images for more detail.

This is the BEFORE....
Anyway, this is the result. Using Bronze paint and patina activator, gleam wax polish. lots of metal embellishments and a rusty tile my friend Gillian gave me. Now what should I do to the inside! *pondering*

Sewing box; Last one I promise (well for a day or two anyway lol)

2011-07-08T00:13:00.004+01:00

So having now sold a few of these I did ONE more. I should really try a different colour but the pink seems to be popular. I just got more of the scissor charm things too so I can make more of these for the craft fair in various colours. And here was I thinking I would get stuck with stamps on a sewing theme lol.Stamps by Crafty Individuals Stamps. CI-322 CI-323 and CI-306...

Little Book Of Egypt. Designed for Katzelkraft and Tammie.

2011-07-07T11:55:00.008+01:00

Continuing to alter all the little books (3 inch x 3 inch) from the book box I talked about a few weeks ago...
This one is "The little book of Egypt." made Using Katzelkrafts Egypt plate which you can get HERE. Katzelcraft Stamps are also sold in the UK exclusively by The Craft Barn.

More of the cards I Dont make :)

2011-07-06T18:10:00.004+01:00

Well you guys know I dont make cards. In fact "flat" things in general give me issues and creative block. None the less I suddenly found myself making cards today! Mostly because I wanted to play with my chalks on versamark to make a background with my Katelkraft Cogs/gears. but once i made the background I had to DO something with it. So I made a couple of cards. one using my summer bright chalk box and one using my earth tones.
Not difficult (obviously, as I made them) but its great fun watching the image appear under the chalk. therapeutic....
As well as the cog stamp, I used the Sand-glass (Sablier) set of Katzelkraft stamps.
Its Katzelkraft week at the Craft Barn this week so lots of nice ideas for the stamps going on their blog. Take a wee visit. (buy some stamps.. go on.. you know you want to...)

Commissions and thanks:

2011-07-05T14:51:00.010+01:00

I want to thank all those that emailed about the little sewing kit in the post below. Ive answered you all I hope, with basic instructions etc.
I also want to thank those who asked if they could buy it. Sadly I have to say no, as the blank little purse was a gift to me from my friend. She gave it to me to alter. On the back of that, I was asked to make a couple of boxes on a similar theme, using the same colours and images. I made three and let the two ladies pick which one they wanted to buy and so this one here is the sad little one left behind LOL. It can go in to my folksy shop and come to the craft fair with me. you never know. someone may like it. (SOLD)
The blank Box is from Calico Crafts as is the little metal safety-pin charm. All the images are stamped using a selection of Crafty Individuals Stamps. CI-322 CI-323 and CI-306...

Sewing Kit:Designed for Crafty Individuals.

2011-07-04T14:55:00.008+01:00

So the new stamps arrived from Crafty Individuals. I have to admit when I saw the dressmaking ones I panicked a bit.. I dont DO sewing and dressmaking, not in real life and in general not as a theme. because i dont care much about fashion or for shopping for it I guess it makes it a topic I cant quite identify with. HOWEVER lol..... the new stamps are sort of cool and so I actually felt inspired...My friend in Canada sent me this cool little plain wooden purse thing and I decided to decorate /alter it and turn it in to a travel sewing kit. I had thought I could send it back to her now its finished but realised she would get as much use out of a sewing kit as I would LOL.When it was finished i added a chain to carry it and realised it was a cute little carry purse too (if you take the sewing stuff out.)
Its done in this months Crafty Individuals challenge theme "Dusky Pink, Cream and brown.". go take a look and join in. Winners get to choose a free stamp. (and I get to pick the 5 winners...cool...)

I used the stamps CI-322 and CI 323

Little rusted Bird house : designed for Calico Crafts

2011-07-03T10:39:00.003+01:00

Birdhouse measures 11cm x 9cm x 6.5cm and comes with two holes and two perches, but i carefully removed the top perch so I could attach the fabulous clock and cog metal pendant charm. The overhang on the roof is ideal to just pop on to a nail or pin in the wall for an unusual little ornament.
Items From Calico Crafts:

Wooden Birdhouse
Metal clock and cog charm
Metal bird charm
Faux moss.
Faux Ivy

Rusty key cabinet and a little Fairy box: Just for fun

2011-07-02T22:07:00.005+01:00

Still playing with the rusting technique. This little key cabinet has been made in the same style as the rusty boxes but i have added in an element. The paper on the sides and the door panel has vintage invention sketches all over it. It has a sort of steampunk feel to it.Entering it in to the Just for fun challenge site. Their theme is "anything Goes"....

Crafty Individuals Monthly Challenge. NOTEBOOK

2011-07-01T22:00:00.005+01:00

It was my turn to pick the theme on the Crafty Individuals Blog monthly Challenge. So I picked one of my favourite vintage colour schemes, "Dusky Pink, cream and brown"...
To take part simply hop over to the Crafty Individuals blog and take a read at the rules. winners will get to choose a stamp of their choice for free :)

Craft Stamper and crafty Individuals.

2011-07-01T08:57:00.004+01:00

I have an item representing Crafty Individuals in the Craft Stamper this month. Sadly, they prefer us not to show any items they use on our blogs but hopefully those who get the magazine will spot it. PAGE 42 (in case you don't spot it lol)
Hope you enjoy it. its using the 2 little ducks stamp that i love. (very detailed).
I can give you a little sneak peek of sections though. Doesn't serve ANY purpose what so ever lol other than me feeling happy.

Full images are obviously in the mag and brief instructions are on Craft Stampers website under the "Web Extra" section (well they will be soon ) ...
Feel free to email any questions as always.
Z x

little craft fair selection of boxes.

2011-07-01T00:02:00.008+01:00

Still busy making things for a craft fair this month. a lot of it is similar to things I've shared before that sold well so I am making repeats... but I know not everyone catches everything depending how often the blog hop over here so am showing them anyway...

I noticed on Anika's Blog that "Try it on a Tuesday" has a theme of Boxes on their altered art challenge. So I am entering this post. I am forever altering boxes as you know lol. Boxes are all from the Craft Barn.

ARTChix quickie:

2011-06-30T12:05:00.003+01:00

This isnt a very clever or complex item but I thought I would share it anyway.
A group I am in has an art lottery regularly. We have to always include an ARTChix product in each piece and the next theme is based on "sewing"...
I pretty much hate sewing therefore I dont much like it as a theme to work with. but I found a way around it (I think)...I had a little pack of miniature wooden cotton-reel bobbins. So I stained them, cut sections of ARTChix images to glue around them then I glossed them. SO they sort of look like shiny beads now.
I also used some of ARTChix little metal roses and one of ARTChix little wooden hummingbirds to hang on to bits of chain and make a handbag charm.
I hope it fits the bill OK...

Design team Combo and another domino book.

2011-06-29T14:22:00.008+01:00

Realistically, who among us makes our art using only one brand? Nobody really unless you are on a design team and have to.
When left to my own devices I like to mix and match like everyone else so this domino book isnt made as a design team piece BUT it features items from two of my design team companies. Katzelkraft and ARTChix.

Its made for craft lottery on a yahoo group I am in that celebrates all things ARTChix. the theme was "Good fortune" which for some reason conjures up oriental for me. I used my Katzelkraft bird stamp to decorate the front again as I have in the past. same stamp same colours same look. Only this time the inside is decorated with ARTCix collage images. its from a digital sheet which meant i could print it out the size I wanted.other than that its some random text and to add the good fortune to it, I added some Chinese luck coins. I added the lucky number 7 as i have run out of the oriental lucky 8 lol.

Sick of Egypt yet? An adventurers domino book. Designed for Katzelkraft

2011-06-29T10:41:00.006+01:00

Again, its something I have made for the craft fair so there isnt a lot to say about it. Its another domino book, which I make a lot of (But they sell well lol). I am so in love with the Katzelkraft Egypt stamps, that I can see me making quite a lot of Egypt themed things for the craft fair at the end of the month.

Travel box (altered wooden box)

2011-06-28T02:16:00.006+01:00

Not a lot to say really as its all pretty straightforward and not very original. I have a craft fair soon so I am just making things like mad and this happened to get churned out tonight. It looks a bit milky because the varnish hasn't dried yet lol (impatient person that I am)

Ancient Egypt Journal: SSSAS

2011-06-27T16:19:00.007+01:00

Well I am back in my comfort zone. ditched the card making and decided to make something a bit random, distressed (obviously lol ) and aged looking.
I am still using the Ancient Egypt themed stamps that arrived at the end of last week from Katzelkraft. I have made a little journal type thing from grungeboard and reclaimed bits and bobs, many of them given to me by my friend Jo who really "gets" what this altered art is all about even though she doesn't do it herself ...yet ;)As this little book has several stamped words on it I would like to enter it in to "Simon Says Stamp and Show", as their theme is "show a word" this week.

Wooden heart... Or is it rust? (Designed for Calico crafts)

2011-06-27T00:22:00.008+01:00

This Large wooden heart,has been altered with the rust paint effect. its intention is to invoke a sense of something mechanical left out in the garden for an age to rust over, then along comes the ivy growing across it and then that's followed by birds nesting etc. its a little bit whimsical.

Items available from Calico Crafts:

Large wooden heart.
Small rusty hearts
Ivy
Steampunk clock and gears pendant charm
Mixed clock parts.
Chain
jumprings

Box Full Of Egypt: For Katzelkraft.

2011-06-26T19:00:00.006+01:00

Yes More Egypt. I'm like a dog with a bone when i get a new stamp set... Anyway as its mostly boxes and dominoes I sell it stands to reason I would HAVE to make a box, using the tissue paper technique. I am also back to the aged and distressed look. (More my thing)...
This Stamp set is available HERE from Katzelkraft.

Back to Basics.Designed for Katzelkraft

2011-06-26T14:49:00.006+01:00

Those who know me will know I have a tenancy for going over the top with ageing, distressing and embellishing. On top of that I am not really a stamper as I am more in to making altered art. I do use a lot of stamping in my altered art but its not the same as "Being a stamper". Cards and scrapbooks are out of my zone yet I started out as a card maker. So I decided to make myself go back to basics with this and do the simplest mat and layer ever and hopefully producing a super speedy yet clean cut graphic card. (no aging distressing or embellishments! I have to go get a can of Cola now to calm my nerves.)
Its using the "Egypt" Set from Katzelkraft again (as featured below) and if you are wondering why there is an E at the end of Egypt on the card, this is why; they are a French company.

Papyrus themed cards:Designed for Katzelkraft.

2011-06-24T22:54:00.011+01:00

Nearly squealed when the post arrived today as my new design team stamps from Katzelkraft arrived and among them was the brand new Egyptian plate. Egyptology is a huge love of mine so I was really keen to have a little try out with them. So I made a card (Good lord "I" made another card)....
The Set is simply called Egypt and you can find it HERE from Katzelkraft. Customers in the UK can get Katzelkraft stamps exclusively from the Craft Barn.
the first card has a lovely Vintage metal style pendant charm on it but you don't need to have one of those as the stamp set has a beautiful mask to stamp out as seen below. (It stamps out very crisp and clear).
This card is really easy to play around with by shifting the elements around a little.
Its safe to say I love this new stamp set. I have more plans for it but I am waiting on an order of some cool bits arriving from the states before i can get on with it.

rust (really? surely not?) yes yes MORE rust lol

2011-06-23T07:10:00.004+01:00

So yes its another rusted project. (But I love rust lol)
We had a "Tag Swap" on the Katzelkraft design team. However we were to do our own style and no need to stamp or use the team stamps. So of course I went for chunky and rusty. Aided by the fact I drew Neil's name, so i was allowed to make it a bit more masculine too :)
Happy as a pig in the proverbial...This has been made using one of Tim Holtz manilla tags, a piece of card with a book page cut in to a tag shape to match (only longer) and a piece of corrugated card cut in to the tag shape and the longest part. So they all match at the top but are graduated at the bottom. the manilla tag has ARTChix eco card gears glued on then the rusting paint technique painted over. after that its just a selection of eclectic bits n bobs really. The main feature being a drawer pull (taken to bits) and added top and bottom (thank you for that Gillian.. must find more of these).
I am entering it in to Zoe and Sam's challenge JUST FOR FUN as their theme is steampunk (thanks for the heads up Zoe x). I could probably enter every second object I make for a steampunk theme these days :)
thank you for looking

More of the same: Another rusty box...

2011-06-21T23:25:00.004+01:00

Since getting out my Iron based paint and rust activator I have been painting and rusting everything in sight. Its very addictive as I love rust as a colour and theme and the wonderful colours you find on rusted metal. so here is yet another box i seem to have decided could be found lurking in the possession of Captain Nemo. (only because its got a hint of steampunk and a hint of an ocean theme. The cogs / gears are made of card and are from ARTChix. The box itself is from the Craft barn.

Mini book of nature: Designed for Katzelkraft. (Simon Says stamp and show Metal)

2011-06-20T10:36:00.001+01:00

This little Hard card book is 3inches square. It came in a large cupboard type box that i have begun to alter and it had a total of 12 little books in it. This is the start of book one. "The little book of nature". It will feature flowers, birds, butterflies, leaves, dragonflies etc. So far i have done the cover and 4 out of the 8 pages.Stamps used are all from Katzelkraft. Customers in the UK can purchase them from the Craft Barn.

So far I have used:
Oiseaux KTZ41
Butterflies 04
Vinci Vitruve

This piece has metal corners, metal butterfly antenna, gold metal polish, metallic gold paper , metal dragonfly and metal luck coin so I feel its metally (not a word), enough to enter in to Simon Says Stamp and Show "Show some metal" :)

Designed for ARTChix: Rusty Steampunk style box.

2011-06-11T02:25:00.008+01:00

I got these cool "eco embellishment gears" from Helga at ARTChix and used them to decorate a plain light wood box. Firstly I glued the eco shapes on to the box, then i painted over the whole thing with Iron based paint followed by a rust activator. once it was dry I attached the larger metal objects, gave it another coat of the paint and rust activator and all done. I will put a protective Varnish coat on it tomorrow when it has dried.

And for Jill who left a comment asking for a "before" picture... here is the blank box. I got this from the Craft Barn...

Altered box; Crafty Individuals.

2011-06-08T02:22:00.000+01:00

Made using three Crafty Individuals Stamps. "believe" "hope" and "journey"

Crafty Individuals June Challenge.

2011-06-02T00:01:00.001+01:00

Its time for the Crafty Individuals Blog Challenge again. Doesn't the month go quickly? This months theme is "Vintage" with the added component that there must be at least one heart included in the piece. As usual your entries must have at least one crafty individuals product in it.

The piece I have altered here, is a frame with a hook, supplied by Calico Crafts and the Crafty Individuals stamp is the bird cage stamp CI-301...

The piece I made and sent to Jean at Crafty Individuals in advance for this theme was the wooden carrier bag box I blogged a few days ago. This used the classic stamp CI-056... and the rusty hearts (large on the sides small on the front) are from Calico Crafts.

Woodland Fairies in the garden: Designed for Calico Crafts.

2011-05-30T12:46:00.007+01:00

Helen at Calico Crafts sent me a collection of items and charms etc to have a play with. Among the collection were two little wooden bird houses. Last winter I made a winter snow and frosty sparkle bird house so I decided to stick to seasons and do this one to represent Autumn. (and its also become a house for fairies.)Items supplied by Calico Crafts:

Wooden bird house.
Acrylic paint
Moss
Ivy leaves
Metal bird charms

For Katzelkraft: Inspired by BB (Paula)

2011-05-28T01:06:00.006+01:00

Designed for Katzelkraft. UK customers can get Katzelkraft stamps from the Craft Barn.

OK for those who are friends and know me, I want to issue a health warning. Do not look at this post until you are sitting down....
Sitting?
OK!
So I made 2 cards. Yes you heard me! I made CARDS lol. Shocker isn't it. Last week I made a Tag in the theme of the french flag. I really liked the colours of the flag emulated with distress inks so wanted to use that idea again. I tried a couple of cards with the help of BB's inspiration. ( BB is Paula Whittaker) shes my all time favourite card maker and I so wish I could make cards like her.
Anyway I combined my flag colours idea with the nice clean simple stamping style BB has been inspiring many of us to try.

Needless to say the cards are not a patch on BB's but for me, its a bit of a triumph as most cards I try to make end up in the trash.

New stuff From Calico Crafts.

2011-05-27T18:09:00.003+01:00

A box arrived today full of yum stuff from Calico crafts. some which I had ordered and some bits that Helen had added for free to be used in Design projects. I only have to use what I like or can use so there is no pressure but when I get a box of goodies I cant help but go and make something the second I've finished opening it. This box was actually one that Dominoes arrived in. its a sturdy wooden box and seemed a shame to waste it so I have altered it.Helen sent me some Vintage Decor collage sheets. I wasnt sure if I could use them when we talked about them over the phone but once i handled them and saw them up close I decided i HAD to use them. They feel like a cross between parchment and high quality tissue. Anyway I covered my wooden box with some decorative pieces, and I varnished it using Americana spray sealer (gloss).

To be honest, if I had left it just like that, it would have looked great. it was clean and pretty and shiny. But this is ME lol. I dont do very new clean cut and pretty items. I do vintage, distressed, kicked around and ancient looking items so I kept adding stuff. gilt wax polish, distress inks, mica mists, sanding, tearing, gold leaf.... and this is the finished look.

Stock from Calico Crafts

Vintage Decor collage sheets.
American gloss sealer.
Metal butterfly (from the steampunk metal range)
Gold leaf.
Ranger Crackle accents.

I have entered this in to the Three Muses BLUE theme challenge.