Monday 26 December 2011

Hi Everyone,
Just a quick message to say, hope you have had a lovely Christmas day.  We had a wonderful time with loads of gifts.  I just want to say I was overwhelmed with all the gifts you gave me.  I love everyone of them, Ceramic Mug set with Chocolate Spoons & Truffles from Janet & Louise, Christmas Mugs & Biscuits from Claire, Scarf & Bracelet from Ros, Ring from Andrea, Soaps from Pat, Wine from June, Chocolates from Lisa, Handmade Peg Bag and Tissue Holder from Margaret, Scarf & Chocolate Santa from Michelle (Stix 2 friend), Chocolates from Mair,  rather Special Body Lotion and Shower Gel from Pam and a large  Floral Table Centrepiece from my dear friend Rachel.  I hope I haven't forgotten anyone, there was so much.You are all truly special and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.  My "thank you cards" will be made when I return to work.

We are just relaxing today  as I have a rather sore throat and feel a bit tired after the hectic day yesterday.  Still loads to eat so we are having a buffet  later on.  Bacon and Egg sandwiches, Orange Juice and Coffee were the orders for this morning.

Speak with you all soon.
Una.

Thursday 22 December 2011

2 Days to Go!!

Hi Everyone, only two more shopping days left before Christmas!!    I braved the crowds to do my food shopping as I will be working right up until Saturday at 4.00p.m.  It was an absolute nightmare.  Shopping trolleys packed to the max were jamming up the aisles as I tried to weave my way through.  I had my list ready to score off what I wanted but it just became impossible.  Why does everyone buy so much food for 1 day!  All the stores will be open Boxing Day and I am sure it will be just as busy as ever. Shopping finished after what should have been a 45 minute task - it took 2 hours! I headed home.  Guess what I forgot the items for the stuffing!!! I will pop in and see Harold my local butcher, he will sort me out.

Then headed off to see Gemma at Pure to have my nails done.  Had a really relaxing time, a lovely coffee and my nails look divine.  She makes a fabulous job of them, so if you are thinking of spoiling yourself I would get down and book an appointment after the new year.

Tonight wrapping the last of the presents and sorting out my table decorations for Christmas day.  Then off to bed ready for another busy day in the store and if I have time my thank you cards for all the lovely "pressies" I have received but still to open on Christmas morning.  I am getting sooo excited now!  Just like a big kid.  Oh well so what it is fun.

Will speak to you all soon.

Una




Saturday 17 December 2011

Saturday 17th December

Well you saw it, used it and loved it!  Thank you to all of you who came out on such a cold wintry day to have a play with the new Layer Perfect Tool.  Both Diane and Sam were really impressed with all of you.  I was so pleased that Janet mastered it straight away. Clever girl!!  I am sure all of you who have ordered one will enjoy using it and will let you know as soon as they arrive in store.

Thank you also to Andrea for the lovely ring she gave me and Michelle arrived after lunch and gave me a beautiful Scarf, hand knitted by her mum.  I will take a photo of them both and let you see them next time.

Attached today is a photo of last Saturday's workshop as promised.

I am having a lazy day at home tomorrow in preparation for next weekend.  Only got food shopping to do this week as "pressies" are all bought now and wrapped thank goodness.

Some new spring papers have arrived and also the most gorgeous wedding 12 x 12 papers in greys and pinks. Love them all and will be suitable for cards as well as scrapping.

Speak soon
Una

Monday 12 December 2011

12th December 2011

Hi Everyone,

Well this is the start of a new week and what an enjoyable one we have just left.  Can't believe it is less than 2 weeks to Christmas Day!!!  Saturday was our last workshop for this year and what a great time we had.  I do hope you all enjoyed making the little hanging ornament in the box and a lovely thank you card for all those fabulous presents your going to have under the Christmas Tree.  Claire really did us proud.

Thank you to everyone who brought goodies for us to eat.  Liz's Flapjacks were scrumptious, Mair's Rockies, Jerry's Mints and Claire's Gluten free Mince Pies were all great too.  In the afternoon we had Christmas Crackers from Michelle, Fruit Wine from Elizabeth (non alcoholic I must stress), Cheese Scones from Anne, Chocolate Eclairs and Mince Pies from Jean, and Jenny gave us all a lovely little handmade box with a chocolate bar inside.  What  lovely, lovely customers I have.  I love you all!!  Oh! I hope I have not missed anyone.  I do hope you all enjoyed my goodies too.

So what have we got to look forward to this Saturday.  Hurrah!  it is the launch of the "Layer Perfect Tool." Diane will be here to demonstrate her wonderful new product which will be available in the new year.  We are getting the opportunity to see it and order it first before the launch.  I think it is wonderful of her to bring it along and give us this sneak preview.  My name will be on the list for one definitely!!  This is something that I feel will be extremely useful for the majority of us.  The great thing about it, is it will fit into our craft bags to take along to workshops, and it comes in a pretty colour too. Wow!  Don't forget to pop along any time between 10.30a.m and 4.00p.m and watch Diane using it.   The kettle will be on and there is Mince Pies for a bit of munching!!!  I know it is a busy time just before Christmas, but I am sure you won't be disappointed and we can all have a good  natter.  Michelle Johnson is going to pop in too.

February classes are all open for booking as January workshops have very limited spaces left.  I will update the website with details and also put the cards and ornament from Saturday on too.  I actually forgot to bring them home today so smack my wrist - I will do it tomorrow evening. Sorry!

Hope you all have a great week and not too stressful.  The weather has turned horrible.  The wind is very strong out here and  I can see the trees swaying back and forward.  I do hope not too many come down over night.

Take care
Una

Tuesday 6 December 2011

Tuesday 6th December

Had a really sad day today as I received news of the sudden death last Friday of a very talented crafter and really lovely lady.  Her name is Sarah Lawrence, owner of Crafty Notions.  Sarah is the author of a number of textile books and developed many great products for use in card making.  Most of you will know the Crafty Notions inks I have on sale in the store.  She also appeared  on TV so many of you will probably remember her from there.  She will be sadly missed by her family who I am sure are still very much in shock over her untimely death.  I have just worked on auto pilot today since I received the news as I really cannot believe it.  I will be saying a little prayer for her tonight.

I have managed to get a great recipe for Fudge which I just adore.  Will try and make some for the demo day on the 17th but can't promise, however if any of you want a copy let me know and I will run  one off for you.  Michelle is coming over as well so it will be great time for us all to catch up on her news too and also let her know her class has only one space left on the 21st January.  She says this is a great new product coming out and worth seeing the demo.

Take care and speak with you soon.
Una

Sunday 4 December 2011

Sunday 4th December

Sunday again and what a lovely day we have had.  We decided to go to Whitehall Garden Centre at Lacock today to check out their Christmas shop and pick up our Christmas tree.  What a lovely surprise to see an Ice Rink which brought back so many memories of when we used to go to Aviemore when the children were small.  We had some great times there over Christmas on the Ski slopes and also the Ice Rink.  The garden centre was very busy and we did enjoy our visit.  When we went through the Christmas shop all you could hear from people was ooh! aah! isn't this lovely, oh! we must get that!  Definitely no credit crunch there!  I am so glad Howard had his credit card with him!  Then Howard took me out to Frankie and Benny's for an early dinner to save me cooking, bless him!

Saturday's Parchment class was enjoyed by everyone and I must just show you a card given to me by Janet and Louise and also one from Chris and Shirley.  They are both really lovely cards and much appreciated.  Chris has broken her wrist so it won't be a very enjoyable Christmas for her.  We wish you a speedy recovery Chris and take the dog for a walk in future not the other way round!!!

I am busy making my cards now in between everything else. Hopefully I will manage to get most of them finished this week.  Otherwise it will be some pretty late nights coming on!

Claire dropped by on Saturday afternoon to show me what you will be making next Saturday.  You are going to love it!!!  She amazes me all the time and I feel so lucky to have her in the team.

Have a good week and speak with you soon.
Una

Thursday 1 December 2011

Hi everyone,

Sorry for late posting but the week just seems to have flown by.  I have been busy setting up the Christmas window for the Christmas light switch on Saturday.  It took me nearly 2 days to finish it.  I decided to make my own tree from some twigs in the garden just to be a bit different.  I always did this with the children when they were young as well as having a real tree.  It was always great fun putting it together then spraying snow on it.  They then used to hang baubles and little gifts on it.  I am also in the midst of making my Christmas cards so all in all I am keeping quite busy.  Hopefully tomorrow I will get some more made after my lovely walk.

Saturday is our last parchment craft  workshop and then the following week the last card making class for this year.  Saturday 17th is the demo day so don't forget as it should be very interesting. Next years diary is ready with 3 classes booked in and filling up quickly.  There are only 2 places left on the 21st with Michelle Johnson on her techniques class.

Hougie boards are back in stock so those of you with orders pending they are ready for collection.

The new FlexMarkers have arrived in now and available as singles.  The colours are wonderful and will be great additions to your ProMarkers.

Will speak with you soon as off to make a nice cup of coffee before I'm a Celebrity....  This is my daily fix at the moment!

Una

Tuesday 22 November 2011

Workshop with Michelle Johnson

Hi everyone just a quick message for you all. Michelle has agreed to do a technique workshop on the 21st. January 2012.  She will be showing you her fabulous glue techniques.  I am letting you know now so you can get booked onto it.  There are 6 places in the morning session and 9 places in the afternoon.  To book  you will have to pay a £5 deposit to ensure your place. The reason I have to take a deposit is that 3 people did not turn up for her last workshop which meant another 3 people did not get the chance to come and Michelle still had to be paid.  There  are  3 people already booked on the morning session.  She then intends doing a second workshop nearer the end  of February with more of her wonderful techniques, but no date has yet been booked for that.

Louise and Janet, please let me know if you want to come as you unfortunately missed out on her last class.

Una 

Monday 21 November 2011

Monday again and another week nearer Christmas.  It does get a bit more exciting when the first week of December arrives and for me a slight panic starts to set in, when I realise not much time to get cards finished, posted and Christmas presents wrapped.

Here is the photo of one of the cards and the reindeer from Saturday's class I promised to share with you.  I have copies of the workshop list available if anyone buys the products.  I know they really do  help.

All the new colour FlexMarkers are going to arrive by Friday at the latest and you will be able to buy them in singles.  As I love them I will be buying a few to use in the workshops and on my Christmas Cards I think!!

Oh! lovely Howard has brought my hot chocolate so better get off to bed.  Speak with you soon.

Una 

Sunday 20 November 2011

Great Weekend!

Oh! what a lovely day we had yesterday with Michelle Johnson.  Everyone seemed to enjoy the card making and the lovely Reindeer Die Cut. It's amazing what you can do with some foil, glitter and paint.  I will post the cards on the website tomorrow and also post one here for you to see.  The twelve days of christmas was fun too  even if we were a bit out of  tune!  She is coming back late January, (hopefully 21st) for a technique workshop so as soon as I have the confirmed date I will let you all know.

Today I had a much needed long lie, well 9.30a.m to be precise.  Howard and I intended going to Whitehall Garden Centre at Lacock to see their Christmas shop but because we were late we decided to stay nearer home and have some retail therapy.  I did get him his Christmas present which he is sooo! happy about.  Now it is just the rest of the family to think about.  I also picked up some ideas for my window display so must get started this week on it as it has to be ready for 3rd December,light switch on evening in Cricklade.

Wendy has brought in some lovely Rag Dolls she and Denise have made and they are so pretty.  I am going to photograph them tomorrow and put them on the web so people can see them.  My goodness I have many talented customers.

Off to watch Strictly now so speak with you later.

Una

Thursday 17 November 2011

Well this is nice! Here I am again with some chit chat!  Had a lovely day off today and had my nails done at the local beauty salon - Pure, in Cricklade.  It was so nice and my goodness they do look good.  Howard said "you could go on telly with those nails, I am impressed!!"  They have been given a gel overlay and should stay good for at least 3 weeks, then I am  having them done again for Christmas.

The Sizzix and Crafts Too orders have arrived and some more lovely gifts for Christmas so will spend tomorrow pricing them and putting them out on sale for Saturday.  Will also put aside all the special orders ready for pick up.

Looking forward to seeing you all for Michelle's workshop on Saturday, better get some Mince Pies in for our coffee break.

I finished Pam's birthday card so will be giving her it tomorrow after our Friday walking group, then she is off to London to see her friend for the weekend.  Here is a sneak peek of it, don't tell her!
I used a Hero Arts/Sizzix Framelits set, a Spellbinders Nestability and some Authentique 6x6 paper.

Speak with you soon.

Una

Wednesday 16 November 2011

It's Wednesday and isn't it cold!  Brrr I think it is time for woolly tights and socks.  Great weather for crafting as you can just close the curtains, snuggle up and spend hours just making your cards.  I have no excuse to get started on my Chirstmas cards now!  But I must tell you, I have been busy making little baskets to fill with sweets for the kids at our open evening on the 3rd December.  The lights will be switched on at night and the town will be  celebrating with a Victorian Evening.  We will be open until 8.00p.m so why not pop along and have a coffee and mince pie with us.  It will be lovely to see you all.  Any way enough, enough here is a picture of the completed baskets so far.

p.s. Why not share one of your Christmas Card designs with us and we will enter you into our draw on Saturday 10th December.  You may just be a winner - you never know?

Speak with you soon
Una 

Monday 14 November 2011

Hello Hello Hello!

It seems such a long time since I posted my little ramblings, so sorry.  I never seem to find the time just now. The weekend came and went, just in a flash.  Can't believe Christmas is just around the corner.  Better get planning my cards.

Saturday's class was great once again and here is one or two of the ones made.  Love the little desk calendar and just great for a little corner of our craft room at home.  The paper used was from the Prima,  Romantique range.  I really love the delicate hues and patterns in them.  The other samples will go on the website gallery.  The last class in this series is in 2 weeks and we have a couple places free due to cancellations if anyone want's to join us.

Saturday evening decided to chill out at home and watch Strictly.  Cooked a lovely meal for Howard and myself.  Poured the wine and then lifted my dinner which I had plated up to to take to the table and bang! the plate cracked in two and landed on the floor.  Food went everywhere and cats jumped with fright!   I nearly cried. Howard heard the noise and came running in relieved to see it wasn't his dinner on the floor!  Unfortunately I did not notice there was a fine crack in the plate. I cleared up the mess while both of us were in fits of laughter.  Could not be bothered to make something else to eat so had my glass of wine, Rhubarb Pie and Custard and settled down to watch telly.  Howard enjoyed his by the way!!    Take note - Check plate not cracked before placing dinner on it!!

Not long now to Saturday's class and I am looking forward to seeing Michelle once again.  I have printed off the class notes with the photos of the cards so we are all ready to roll.  They look really great and I am sure you will have a great time with her.

It's Pam's birthday on Saturday but sadly for us she is off to London to see a show with her friend so will have to save  a cake for the next time she is with us.  Oh I forgot I have a birthday card to make before then!!!  Better get cracking.

I have reduced some of the small nestabilities down to £18 to make way for new ones which will be released in the next few months.  So check them out, you never know you might just find room for them!

Speak with you soon.
Una

Monday 7 November 2011

Thank you Girls

I really enjoyed Saturday's workshop and it was all thanks to you girls.  You all made such lovely cards it made me feel really good!  However by the time I got home I was very tired.  Fortunately my lovely daughter helped make the dinner so I could sit down, put my feet up and watch Strictly & the X Factor. We decided to give the  Bonfire and Fireworks display in Cricklade a miss this year.   Sunday we all went down to Bristol for some shopping and then Wendy had to catch the train back to London.  I do hate seeing her go but she enjoys working and living there.

Now that Halloween and 5th November is over it's time to get the Christmas cards and gifts out on sale and that is what I have been doing today.  I never seem to have enough room for it all.  Must make a mental note for next year.  Don't buy so much!!!

During all the frenzy an order arrived and I just had to open it and guess what?  It was Sheena's lovely new stamps.  I love them all and must have!!!  Can see lots of great cards , especially men's which we always seem to have trouble with.  They will be priced up and on sale tomorrow, so you will see them all on Saturday.  Already have an order from  Fran for them!

Off to bed know so will speak with you all soon.  Oh! forgot to say received details of Michelle's workshop coming up and you are all going to have a great time at it!  Wish I was doing it! Make sure you all bring your little crafting kit with you.

Una x

Tuesday 1 November 2011

Hi everyone, sorry late with posting but as usual had a busy weekend.  Everyone enjoyed the class and are looking forward to the next series using same stamp set.
On to Saturday 5th November's class and I attach a sneak preview of one of the cards.  .  We are also using one of the new Urban design stamps from Papermania so look out for that on the website workshop gallery after Saturday.  I am just about to load the stamp sets on the website.  They are really fab  and will be useful for many occasions as well as mixing them with other steampunk type items.

We are going to be doing more series type sessions next year in order to let as many people as possible join the workshops.  Nobody will miss out I hope.  However,we are going to have to insist we receive a deposit for booking workshops due to a number of people cancelling at short notice or not turning up.  The Tutor still has to be paid!

Thanks to Joan for the Halloween recipes, I have made some really nice biscuits and cakes for my daughter and her friend when they arrive at the weekend.

I was going to a business meeting this evening but thank goodness it has been cancelled.  I hate going out in the dark at night!!!

Have a good week and will talk with you all soon.
Una

Tuesday 25 October 2011

Spooky Time will soon be here!!

Hi everyone, hope the weekend was good for you all.  The weather was so nice, and now we have the rain. Yuck!  I got soaked coming home tonight.  Left my umbrella in the car so just had to make a dash for it.  By the time I got to the car park my hair was was dripping and the water was running down my back.  Needless to say when I got home I had to strip off and have  a quick shower to warm me up and a nice hot drink.  I am so scared I get a chill and lose my voice again!

I hope you are all prepared for Halloween with toffee apples at the ready for all the kids doing Trick or Treet. At our local chemist the girls have all been busy making little beaded spiders to give away with raffle tickets costing 50p.  They are collecting for a good cause so if you are down our way call in and buy a ticket.  Even if you don't win you will get one of these cute little spiders to keep!  There are loads of parties planned around Cricklade, I am sure many of them are for the grown ups who don't miss a chance to celebrate.  I have some cute masks in ready to decorate with feathers, ribbons and gems for those of you going to one of the fancy dress balls on 5th November.

Stamps are in for weekend workshop and I am busy preparing samples for the following week workshop. Using some stamps from Hero Arts and possibly Kanban.  Had a play with the new Urban rubber stamps being released from Docrafts beginning of November.  They are really nice and will work well with distress inks and cardstock.  Hopefully I will have some samples ready by the time they come into stock.

Speak with you all soon.

Una

Monday 17 October 2011

Sorry for no post Saturday but was sooo! tired after the hectic day, just had to go home and relax.  It was another lovely inspiring day with Claire using a great stamp set from Hobby Art.  I attach a sample of  the window card and what a great idea.  Looking forward to the second  workshop using the same set to create Autumn and Men's cards.

It was great to see Mabel who travelled up from Bath for the workshop.  She has bought herself a BigShot and some Framelits and Embossing templates.  I am sure she will have some fun with them all.  Thank you Mabel for taking the time to join us and thanks so much for the Choc's.  I must say I had a few on Saturday whilst watching Strictly Come Dancing!

Doreen joined us as well for the first time and it was her birthday, won't say which one but hope you had a lovely weekend.

Looking forward to seeing the "Parchment" girls this coming Saturday.

Will catch up with you all later in the week with details of some new products coming in and also the other cards from the workshop will be on the card gallery later on this week.

Take care Una 

Tuesday 11 October 2011

Oh! The Excitement

Hi Everyone, the new Framelits & Stamp sets by Sizzix & Hero Arts have arrived in and now on the website.  I just love them and can't wait to try them out.  Now which one will be first I wonder! There are also some new Textured Embossing sets and they are all rather special as well.  The Authentique  6x6 pads are also now shown on the website.  The quality is exceptional and the patterns all very usable on small projects.  I have also received the new collections from Glitz designs and Prima.- Beautiful Dreamer, Pixie Glen and Romantique.  It is worth popping over if you can  to see these lovely papers otherwise take a look on the website.  The 6x6 bundle of Authentique shown here is called  Uncommon and Michelle has used it for some projects coming out in  a magazine later on this year.

Also have had a delivery of some Christmas gift items but I promise you I will not put on sale until the end of the month!

Looking forward to seeing you all on Saturday for the workshop.  Will catch up with you all soon.

Una

Saturday 8 October 2011

An Amazing Day - Thank You

What an amazing day it was with Kirsty and her demo's of the ProMarkers and AquaMarkers.  Thank you so much to everyone who came along and supported us.  She could not believe how busy we were. Kirsty thought you were all wonderful and of course I said so too.  I do hope she helped you with your shading and blending techniques and also any other issues you had with them.  I think the main one was what type of ink is best used for stamping images with both types of pens.

I could see she was very tired when she left this evening and wished her well on her journey back home.  I have put a note in the diary to contact her before the end of the year to arrange a date in the early part of the year for a return visit.

I left the shop for home around 6.00.p.m. and Howard had the TV on for Strictly Come Dancing, a glass of my favourite wine, my comfy slippers and Jim Jams ready for me.  I relaxed, chilled out and enjoyed the show.  Looking forward to a lazy day  tomorrow.

Oh! and wasn't it lovely to see Michelle today, travelling all the way from her home in Windsor just to see us.  Can't wait until her workshop in November it is going to be good!

Speak with you all soon!
Una

Wednesday 5 October 2011

Midweek News

Hi everyone, well hasn't the weather changed.  Was at the hairdressers this afternoon, had my hair cut and felt quite chilly after it.  It does feel a lot tidier now and it was badly needing a bit of TLC.  Did any of you watch QVC this afternoon at 2.00p.m as Kirsty was on it and I thought her presentation skills were excellent.  So looking forward to Saturday when she is in the shop doing her ProMarker demos.

I meant to let you all see this lovely tea towel last week which  Liz brought me back for the shop kitchen from her holidays in Kefalonia, Greece.  So pretty I decided to take it home with me!!!  I am naughty but I really liked it and did not want to get it dirty.

I also have news of some new items on there way to me from Sizzix who have teamed up with Hero Arts to produce stamps and Die sets.  This one is item 657774 Framelits Die and Stamp Set, the  cost is £16.99.  As soon as I have them priced I will put them on sale in the store and on the website.  Just thought I would give you a preview of one.

Hopefully I will have them by Saturday so many of you will see them then.

Una 

Sunday 2 October 2011

Oh Happy Days!

What a lovely day it was to day.  The sun just makes you feel so much better.  I bet loads of you headed for the beaches to catch the last of the lovely weather.  I am afraid I was a bit lazy today and just put my feet up in the garden. (after I did the weekend usual chores!)

Going back to Saturday, thank you to all of you who made the workshop really great.  I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.  I am sorry if I made you work really hard on your measuring and layering.  I felt it was much better for the learning process rather than having the pieces all measured out ready for sticking down, and you managed to make 2 cards, a gift card holder and a Snowman Poop Bag!  I think you should give yourselves a pat on the back!

I do hope I see all of you and many more for the ProMarker Demo Day with Kirsty Wiseman next Saturday. It will give you an opportunity to ask her about the FlexMarker pens now you have used them and especially the new pastel colours.

Hi Lesley, good luck in your new job and hope the office move was completed successfully without you on Saturday.  With your sunny smile and pleasant personality everyone will enjoy working with you.

I am off to organise some dinner for us now before Downton Abbey starts, I just love it.
Take care and speak with you all soon!
Una

Friday 30 September 2011

Happiness is a stamp and an Ink pad!

How sad am I!  This week I have been preparing cards for the workshop on Saturday and as usual I get carried away with a particular stamp.  This week it has been three.  A lovely Dog Rose Wreath from Woodware which can be used for loads of occasions not just at Christmas. Christmas Squares from Franscoise which can be used as it is or cut up into little squares to make smaller cards and also a Gift Card/Money folder.  I particularly love Penguin Star from Stampendous.  I have made a cute little Candy Holder with a Penguin Poop message, I am sure the kids will love this.  All these stamps are perfect for heat embossing.  Something we don't do so much of now but when you find the perfect stamp for it I think it does it justice.  Anyway I hope you will pop in and see them, however if not after the workshop they will be on the gallery.

This was week 2 in my walking Friday group and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you to Liz for the company during the walk and the coffee! I managed to complete my daily step target very quickly and felt very refreshed when I returned to the shop.  Should sleep well tonight!

Just a reminder that next Saturday is the ProMarker Demonstration day with Kirsty Wiseman.  I had a lovely chat to Kirsty on the phone this morning and look forward to meeting her.  She has loads planned for the day so try your best to come and meet her.  She will be able to answer all your problems with the pens.  I did not realise how an accomplished photographer she is and runs one to ones in learning about your camera and how to create the best shots.  Her blog is very good too.  I must ask her for a link to make it easier for you to catch up with her news.  There are loads of video clips on ProMarkers and AquaMarkers.

Look forward to seeing some of you tomorrow and hopefully many of you next week.

Take care and enjoy a sunshine fuelled weekend.  "Get the Barbie out Sheila!"
Una

Saturday 24 September 2011

My Friend Joan

Joan and her husband Tom were down from Scotland for two weeks on holiday and before they  left on Friday they brought me these lovely flowers.  I was so overwhelmed by their kindness to me that I just had to show you a picture of them.  They are called Alstromeria's and smell gorgeous.  Joan as I told you previously makes the most incredible jewellery pieces which are all unique in their own way.  She takes particular care in choosing the clasps as she says they are as important as the beads used in their making.

I do hope your journey back today was okay and look forward to seeing you both sometime next year and thank you once again for choosing me as a friend and for your kindness.

Today's Workshop

Hi everyone, just a short note for now about today's lovely class with Claire.  I attach a photo to show you one of the Cards and decorated Candle that was made.  They also completed a lovely set of tags and holder but it seems to have gone amiss, but here I show you a card which has the tag set on it.  I will email Claire and see if she packed it a way in her craft box by mistake and if so will  let you see it next week.  There will also be more pictures of samples posted on the workshop gallery tomorrow.  The candle and tags were ideas for those who do little Craft Fairs at this time of the year.  Our favourite product Safmat was stamped with  a snowflake stamp and also printed with Season's Greetings, then cut out around image and wording with  backing carefully removed then placed on candle.  Wrapped beautifully in a polyprop clear card bag and tied with ribbon and a stamped gift tag.  I can see these as a centre piece  displayed together on a craft table, with a selection of gift tags scattered around.  Thanks to Claire for all the hard work she put in doing the samples and also for the great workshop.

To Liz and Pam, have a great day at Ali Pali and come back with some great ideas.

Off to bed now to relax and read my latest book and will speak with you all soon.

Una

Friday 23 September 2011

Walk For Life

Well ladies today I joined the Cricklade group of walkers and we did our first walk around Cricklade.  What a lovely hour we had and the weather was so good. On our way back we stopped in at the United Church for a coffee and it was lovely to meet up with some of the ladies there who all do a great job.  They were surprised to see me as normally I am in the shop.  I decided to join the group because although I feel fit and walk, I don't get enough fresh air due to always being in the shop.  I came back feeling so refreshed and on a high.  I would encourage all of you to join if there is a walking group in your town or village.  I found lots of inspiration on the way for my crafting and I am sure you will be the same.  Not only are you getting the fresh air and excercise you meet loads of people and a great deal of them are crafters of one sort or another. Janet if you are reading this, join the Chippenham group or come to Cricklade on a Friday and join us you will really enjoy it.

I have had such a busy day on my return pricing and putting out new stock,showing the new FlexMarkers and the wonderful results you get using them, making coffee and now setting up for Saturday's workshop.  Can't wait to see the examples Claire has produced with the Woodware and Personal Impressions clear stamps. 

I said cheerio to my friend Joan and her husband from Scotland who makes the most incredible jewellery pieces,and has been down on holiday here for 2 weeks.  Joan is such  a lovely lady and great fun to be around.  She has loved meeting so many of you and says she can't wait until her next visit.  Her husband Tam says he would love to live here in our beautiful town, we are all so friendly and the weather is much better than home.  We did not think that way last winter when we were snowed in for a few days did we!!!!

Speak to you over the weekend and enjoy the sunshine tomorrow it is supposed to continue!
Una

Monday 19 September 2011

Hi everyone. Well what a hectic weekend I have had! We had a great parchment craft class on Saturday.  We used the No10 Christmas grid from Pergamano.  Everyone was buzzing at the end and full of inspiration.  It is always good to see so many happy faces at the end of a class.  Just wish I had some samples to show you what was achieved but unfortunately the Tutor takes them away with her.

Saturday 24th Sept. class is using 2 sets from Personal Impressions - Paula Pascaul set - Punchable Tags and Sue Dix  set - Snowflakes also Wild Rose Studio Set Snowflakes. Class is full morning and afternoon so it should be a great day.  Card samples will be on website after the class.

Sunday I thought I would put my feet up and play with one of my new stamps but hubby was fitting new felt to the roof of the garden shed, which we lost in the recent storms and needed my help - to make him his cups of tea!!! No I am only joking, I held the ladder as it is a very large shed and I did not want him to fall off.   Hopefully I will get a chance during the week to make some cards.

Oops customers in shop so need to go just now as they need my help with their stamping.  Speak with you soon.
Una

Wednesday 14 September 2011

New Products

There is a great new product coming out very soon and it is something we will all want and some of us really need.  Can't say much at the present moment but I am going to be very fortunate to be one of the first to see it and get to use it!  There is going to be a demo day in the shop on the 17th December with it.  The designer of the product will be with us and you will be able to ask as many questions as you want and she should be able to answer them.  So keep this date free and lets have a great time.  It's one of those musts on our Christmas Wish List.  It will be easy to carry around to our Scrapbook and Cardmaking classes without taking up too  much room.  I bet you are all wondering what it is????  Can't say so watch this space.  I am sooooooooo excited!  Just like a big kid.  The designer has also told me she will be bringing out more products in 2012.

My dear friend Joan and her husband Tam have arrived from Scotland for 2 weeks and she has brought me some amazing pieces of jewellery she has made.  Try and pop in to see them, they are all stunning pieces.

Off to read my latest crafting magazine with a nice cup of hot chocolate,  so cheerio for now.

Una 

Tuesday 13 September 2011

Normal Service Resumed!!

Hello everyone,
Thank you to everyone who came to see us at the Crafts For All Show in Bristol.  It was a buzzing three days with lots going on.  Lovely Michelle from Stix2 and Woodware was marvellous with all her crafting ideas and tips using a glue gun, stamps, punches,  mica powders etc.  I just loved the crackers she made and decorated with the Woodware Border Punch System and the unusual embellishments from stamps and the glue gun.  I came home with loads of samples to make some great cards for the instore display boards. Thanks also to Ros and my dear husband Howard who as always are a great help at the shows and also in the shop.   I would also like to thank the Crafts For All staff especially Nadine and Kay for their support over the 3 days. Congratulations to Audrey who won our crafting goody bag which will be sent out this week.

We are not exhibiting until next year now as it is always extremely busy in the shop  from now until the end of the year.  Workshops are filling up fast with only a few places left so if you feel like joining us for a great crafting day please give us a phone.

Remember our demo day in October with Kirsty Wiseman, who will be showing us how to get the best out of  the  fabulous ProMarkers and the new FlexMarkers - I have fallen in love with them now since using them at the show!  I will keep them on special offer until after the demo day.

Keep crafting..... and enjoy,
Una

Friday 9 September 2011

Michelle with Crackers Samples

Just a quick message to thank all of you who came to the show today.  It was lovely catching up with you and hearing about your crafting this year.  I see many of you have really caught the bug for stamping and distressing now which is great and thank you for all the positive comments about the card sample boards.

Here is a photo of Michelle with the completed cracker samples and she will see a number of you at her workshop in November.  She has left me a few of these samples so you will see them in the shop to give you ideas for your own.

I am off to bed now as it will be another busy day and then packing up for the journey back to the shop.  No more shows until next year now for me thank goodness as it will be very busy from now until Christmas Eve in the shop.
Bye Bye for now  Una.

Thursday 8 September 2011

FlexMarkers

Hi Everyone.  Well that's the first day over at Bristol Show thank goodness.  It was very busy and enjoyable. Michelle did some great demos and the crackers are really lovely.  Managed to take a few pictures which I will load on the website over the weekend.

I arrived back at the shop and surprise surprise, the FlexMarkers have arrived.  I will leave some of them in the shop as a few of you were disappointed I did not have them today and may well pop into the shop tomorrow.  The rest I will bring down to the show and we can have a play with them.  The colours are fabulous with unusual names and guess what we have Antique White.  So many people have asked me for white to highlight so we may well be able to do that now.  I will give it a go.  The normal price for a set is £14.99 and an individual pen priced at £2.99 each.  However I will have them on special offer while stocks last.  So make sure you get them now.

Bye for now
Una

Wednesday 7 September 2011

All Ready for the Show at UWE Bristol

Well it was a long day today but the stand is all set up ready for tomorrow the opening day.  Our stand is A11 so pop along and see us.  All the new Woodware, Stampavia and Wild Rose Studio stamps are on sale and hopefully I will get the chance to a bit of demoing, just what I love.  However Michelle is on hand  ready for her demo's with the Christmas Cracker packs from Stix2.  Can't wait to see some great designs from her as some of you already know she is a very talented lady..  It's so exciting I probably will not sleep tonight!  Ros  and Howard will be there to look after you all  so remember come along and say hello!.  There are also lots of Christmas Decoupage and Paper packs to choose from with plenty of flowers, stones and nailheads to add accents to your cards and scrapbooks.  The amazing new Framelits are on sales as well with more due within the next day or two.  As I am travelling home each day I will be able to pick up more stock.

Bye for now
Una

Tuesday 6 September 2011

Stampavia Winter Collection

Just a quick message to say that the new Stampavia clear stamps have arrived and I have loaded them on the website.  Here is one of the cute stamps to give you a taste.  I will have them all at the Bristol Show so hopefully I will see many of you there. Remember - Thursday Friday and Saturday 10.00a.m - 5.00p.m daily.  Lots going on, it is going to be a great show.

Bye for now
Una

Monday 5 September 2011

Well Done Fran!

Hi Everyone, just wanted to show you Fran's card with the Robin on a Boot clear Woodware stamp and Sheena's Paint Fusion Christmas Holly Rubber Stamp.  Fran has merged 2 different stamps together to create a lovely christmas scene, perfect for traditional style cards we all love to receive.  The berries on the holly look so realistic and the glitter looks like little bits of snow having just fluttered down to land on the boot.  Thank you Fran for sharing this with me and I hope you all enjoy seeing it too.

It has been a very busy day today with all the orders arriving for the show.  The Christmas Cracker packs arrived in ready for the demo.  Can't wait to see Michelle's samples, I know they will be lovely.  I feel a workshop coming on  and some mince pies to get us in the mood for Christmas!  Watch this space!!!

Saturday 3 September 2011

Workshop Cards

Just a quick post.  Here are 2 cards from workshop today. Hope you like them.

Thank You

We had a great workshop with Claire today using the Woodware Robin in a Boot clear stamp and a Kanban floral clear set.  I will load them on the Workshop Gallery asap.  Everyone enjoyed it and went away buzzing with inspiration to make more. She always shows us  ways of using the stamp not just as a whole image but using parts of it to create different cards.  Thank you Claire!

I also wanted to say a big  thank you to Chris and Shirley for the lovely flowers they brought me today.  It was so unexpected and such a surprise.  How kind you are and I really appreciate it.  I thought I would show you all so  here is a picture that I took once I had set them in a vase with some greenery from my garden.

Congratulations to Jenny, Wendy, and Jean for the winning tickets for the Crafts For All Show next week in Bristol.

Just off for my hot chocolate now before bed as I have an early rise tomorrow as we are going to a trade show in Birmingham.

Take care enjoy Sunday and will speak to you all soon.


Thursday 1 September 2011

Wild Rose Studio - Pickle

Just a quick post to let you all know that Pickles the Penguin from Wild Rose Studio arrived in today.  He is so cute you will just love him.  Shown here is Pickles with his sleigh full of pressies - hope there is some for me!!  I know a few of you already have placed orders so don't worry they are packed away safely for you on Saturday.

I will be loading them all on the website asap.

Take care and speak with you all soon.

Una

Wednesday 31 August 2011

Countdown to the show!!

Hope you all had a great holiday weekend.  The weather wasn't  too bad.  I am glad I was not in America as they had some rather freak weather to deal with.  Pam arrived home safe and sound and she looked extremely well.  I am looking forward to seeing her holiday pictures.

I am getting really excited as it's not long to go to the show at UWE Bristol, 8th, 9th and 10th September.  Michelle and myself spent a great deal of today discussing what demo's she will be doing on Thursday.  I think you will love them all and I know it is going to be very very busy. I still have a few tickets left for the show which will be given away on Saturday to some lucky people.   New Christmas crafty bits are arriving daily and I will endeavour to get them listed on the website as soon as possible.

The workshop on Saturday is fully booked and I am sorry I have had to disappoint some of you.  We will try to fit in another date after the show is over and we are back to normal.

I have been stamping up some of the new Christmas stamps and they are all lovely.  I know you will really like them and as quick as I can I am doing samples for the boards next week.  I think it is time I put a Design Team together - another job for after the show I think!

Well off for some hot chocolate now and bed as I have another busy day tomorrow.

Thanks for dropping by.

Una

Saturday 27 August 2011

Bank Holiday

Just wanted you to know that I am closed on Monday sorry! but will be open Tuesday onwards. As this is the last bank holiday before christmas I thought I would have a rest.  However I will be busy planning the Bristol Show as it is only 12 days to go.  I just love this show as I get to meet lots of my customers from the West Country and Wales who don't manage up to the store very often.  There is always a great atmosphere and excitement within the show which is down to the organisers and of course the craft companies who attend it.

We had a lovely Parchment class today with Sue and welcomed a new lady called Jenny.  She did very well for her first time with us and look forward to seeing her again soon for a stamping class.

I have  added some new clear stamps to the website today so take a look.  I love them all but I have my eye on the "Jolly Holly" one this week.  Take a look at the picture I have posted here of it.

Do have a lovely weekend and will speak with you all sometime next week

Tuesday 23 August 2011

Hello Everyone, have been busy yesterday and today with deliveries so not had much time to myself or time to write blog, so sorry.  We had a lovely weekend but it is always over too quickly.  Saturday's workshop was really good and everyone as usual went home full of inspiration to start their Christmas Cards.  We were using a lovely Stampendous cling rubber stamp -  Christmas Lantern.  This stamp can be used in so many ways.  Claire made a really nice unusual shaped card but unfortunately someone by mistake took the sample home so I am unable to load  a picture of it on the website.  Hopefully they will realise it is not theirs and bring it back to me. .  Otherwise a few pictures are now able to be viewed on the gallery. We also completed a couple of  cards using a cling stamp, Boston Lighthouse from Stampendous, these are also shown on the workshop gallery  I also took some pictures of the workshop  class so will load them on as well.  They were all happy bunnies beavering away, the time flew so quickly.

Some of the new christmas designs came in from Woodware but sold out quickly on Saturday but never fear they are back on order again and should be in very soon.

Have just had some news about the lovely JustRite stamp collection so watch this space for a further bulletin.

Off to make hubby's tea now so will speak to you all soon.
Una

Friday 19 August 2011

It's Friday!!!

Nearly the end of another week, time flies so quickly when you are having fun!  It has been very busy in the store  with loads of visitors from afar.  Some of them saw my advert in Making Cards and thought they would pay us a visit.  How nice was that.  We all had a good chat about what type of cards they loved doing;  in between the coffee and biscuits.  I sent them away with loads of ideas and project sheets from the previous classes. Hope to see them all again, sometime in the future or  possibly at the Crafts For All Show next month in Bristol.  Talking of which it is only 20 days to go and counting!!!!  Still got some free tickets left so why not visit the store and try your luck at winning one of them.

Now onto new items arrived and in stock.  Lovely new clear stamps from Woodware.  I have a favourite which is the Robin on a Boot.  Must have it!!!  Sheena Douglas's new Christmas Paint Fusion stamps are also in and they are lovely as usual.  Grab one of the DVD's you will not be disappointed. Xcut Dies and Sizzix Framelits.  I particularly love the Pennant Die.  I can imagine doing lots of things with this one.  Will sign off now as must get to bed.  We have a full house for the workshops all day tomorrow and it will be extremely busy.
Una

Monday 15 August 2011

Hi everyone, sorry no posting last week.  It was a pretty grim week.  I had to have my beloved cat Dusty put to sleep on Monday and I was completely heartbroken.  I had him from the day he was born and it was a complete loss to me.  However, as I was told his quality of life had gone, it was kinder to let him go peacefully than trying to carry on.  My other two cats spend most of the day looking for him as he used to be very protective towards them.  So its lots of love and cuddles all around at the moment!

We had a great workshop on Saturday, everyone enjoyed it and went home full of ideas for creating more.  It was amazing to see how well they managed to distress the cardstock using the ink brushes to give a much softer look.  I have some Project Sheets which are available for anyone wishing to buy the stamps.

Saturday's workshop with Claire is using a Stampendous Christmas Design and a Lighthouse.  Looking forward to seeing what she has created with them.  I will get the cards on the website as soon as possible.

We have some masks in stock with more designs on order, one of which you can see here.  Also some Marianne Design Creatables.  I love the Snowflakes and Christmas Tree.  We also have some new Embossing Folders in so take a look on the website.

Have a good week!

Una

Tuesday 2 August 2011

Had a lovely day on Sunday, made my Plum Jam from the plums in the garden and then chilled out rest of day and had a barbecue.  Weather was just perfect.

It has been all go Monday and Tuesday making cards for the workshop on the 13th.  Will load a picture of one of the cards for you to see.  I am using a Stampendous Clear Set.  Very versatile for almost all occasions.  

Today has been hectic and had to set up a new Hub for my internet access.  Just my luck the connections were lost due to a faulty Hub and could not access anything.  Thank goodness for the BT Helpdesk.  They were great and talked me through the whole process.  I think my blood pressure went through the roof, thank goodness all is well and am now sifting through all my work to do list! and emails along with a nice cup of coffee.

The judging for the Britain in Bloom contest takes place for our little town today.  The Cricklade in Bloom team have done a wonderful job with all the floral displays around the town.  The shops and pubs all play their part in decorating their windows and fronts too.  Lets hope we win again this year.

Had some visitors from New Zealand yesterday and later on from Holland.  The Dutch couple  found out about the store in a Hobby Magazine in Holland and said they just had to pay us a visit.  They loved the store and the town so you can well imagine I was chuffed to bits!

Thats all for now but keep checking website for new products as they arrive.

Wednesday 27 July 2011

Ballet Ribbons

Hi everyone, just thought I would share something with you today.  As you know I like to promote new  local businesses in our area. I hope by doing this it will give them the opportunity to access a wider audience and in doing so help to get their business off the ground. This last 2 weeks I have had one of the store windows full of pretty flower hair ribbons hand crafted by a lady called Karen Trotman of Ballet Ribbons.  These pretty ribbons are worn by ballet students.  They come in all colours and can be made to order.  I have them for sale in 2 sizes and 2 colours and have loaded a picture of them on the blog for you to see.  They are also for sale on the website.    The large one shown here has been embellished with  rinestones.  Karen can be contacted on balletribbons@hotmail.co.uk    Please take a minute to have a look.

Tuesday 26 July 2011

Saturday Workshop

Hi Everyone, hope you all enjoyed the sunshine on Sunday, it felt really like summer. Now it's back to work and into  preparing for next workshop.  I thought I would share a card made at last Saturday's workshop if my cat Dusty will let me.  At the moment he is perched on my knee with 2 paws on the keyboard watching every move I make and looking at the screen as if to say what is she doing now!  Anyway here it is.

The card was made using a Stampendous Clear Set - Summer Bouquet.  We used a circle punch from Woodware to punch out the middle of a piece of cream hammer card, printed wording onto Safmat and then mounted it behind the circle before mounting onto the main card.  The other cards are all on the website gallery listed under workshop cards.

Saturday 23 July 2011

Workshop

Hi everyone, well once again we had a lovely workshop with Claire and hopefully tomorrow I will get the sample cards onto the website gallery and also post one here for everyone to see.  I would also like to let you know that the winners of the 2 free tickets for the Craft For All Show in Bristol in September were Denise Beales from morning session and Mair Griffiths from afternoon session.  Don't fret too much as I have a further two tickets to give away at our next workshop.   Have a lovely weekend and hopefully will see some of you next week.

Thursday 21 July 2011

Crafty Edger from Woodware

Hello everyone,
Just had to share this with you today.  I received the new Crafty Edger and cassettes in from Woodware today. I know it has been around for a few months and you may well ask why have I not had it in before but with all the Martha Stewart border punches in I thought do I need more!!!  Well this one I do!  The Crafty Edger is so easy to use and the results are fantastic.  It is a combined 12" or 30.5cm decorating gauge ruler and border punch craft tool.  Included is the Ribbon Punch Cassette and retails for just over £19.00.  You can create a continuous decorative border.  There are various border cassettes available and new corner ones have only recently been launched.  They don't cost the earth and the cassettes stack easily for storage.  I have loaded a simple card I made today and I have used a slightly narrower ribbon to show the effect you can create.  Call in at the store and you can have a go on mine, you won't be disappointed.

Wednesday 20 July 2011

Hi everyone, well another week is flying by.  Time goes so quickly.  Today Hunkdory toppers and card kits have arrived and as usual top quality products. There is really lovely pearl flower embossed card in various colours which will make very pretty card blanks. Also in stock Christmas Decoupage and Concept Cards from Crafts UK along with great packs of Mirror Card at fantastic prices.

Looking forward to Saturday's workshop where we will be using a Stampendous Sunflower Clear Set of stamps.

I have got 2 free tickets for Sept Crafts For Crafter Show which the attendees at the workshop will have a chance to win on Saturday.  Winners will be announced here next week.

Saturday 16 July 2011

Hi Everyone, just wanted to say a big thank you to everyone who came along to the Demo Day with Michelle.  I know the weather was awful with the constant rain but wasn't it just worthwhile. I know I loved every minute of her techniques and her samples were really stunning.  I have loaded the Lily stamp sample here for you all to see.I hope you like it. Just a great way to use your stamp to create something a bit different and never run out of your embellishments to colour coordinate your projects.  Michelle used the Stix2 Glue Gun, Mica powder,Waterbrush and of course the Woodware Lily stamp.  We will be sorting out a workshop soon to do some of these techniques.  Watch this space.  Enjoy the rest of your weekend.  I am going to put my feet up on Sunday and read all the latest Craft Magazines I haven't been able to look at over this last busy week.

Friday 15 July 2011

Hi everyone,   Countdown until  tomorrow our demo day.  All ready for Michelle coming and everyone so looking forward to it.  The Fairford Airshow is on so I would suggest you leave a little earlier than usual or take the back roads. into Cricklade.  Normally the roads are usually clear by then so not expecting any hold ups but you never know!  The weather looks as if it is about to change, it looks very cloudy now.  Shame as I was looking forward to a sunny weekend.

A few new Inkadinkado Clear Stamps have arrived in today and are now on the website.  Lovely Flourishes and Meadow clear stamps.

Thursday 14 July 2011

New Stamps

Hi Everyone, what a lovely day it has been. It was so warm on my way to work this morning I felt like singing but decided against it due to my inability to keep in tune!   Had a very busy day with lots of lovely customers, so thanks for stopping by.
We have had some new clear stamps in from Personal Impressions- Marion Emberson Designs.  I think they are really versatile stamps and will make loads of different types of cards.  Also Stampendous Christmas designs - my favourite today is CRP128 Cling Key Note.  You can see it here for now but as soon as I make a card  I will load it on the gallery.  Check out New Products for details.

Well off for a cup of Hot Chocolate before bed, as I am in for another busy day tomorrow.

Wednesday 13 July 2011

Demo Day Saturday

Just a little reminder about our wonderful demo day this Saturday.  Michelle Johnson, Graphic Designer, Craft Tutor and Demonstrator is going to show us some fantastic techniques with  great products from Woodware and Stix2. Michelle frequently has projects in Making Cards and other craft magazines.  Hope to see you sometime during the day, - 10.30a.m - 4.00p.m

Monday 11 July 2011

New Kanban Stamps

Hi Everyone, hope you all had a lovely weekend and enjoyed the sunshine on Sunday.  I did, we had the day out at one of  my favourite garden centres, picking up some lovely plants for the garden.  I do get lots of inspiration from the massive amount of different species of flowers and plants and their vibrant colours. So much so I have an idea for a hanging decoration using ribbons, beads, my Big Shot and a lovely butterfly die.  Watch this space!
The new Kanban clear acrylic stamps have arrived in and now on the website.  Will get busy doing some card samples for the website gallery.

Just a gentle reminder of our Demo day on Saturday, don't want you to miss a great day.  Have a good week.

Friday 8 July 2011

Happy Birthday June!

Hi June, just wanted to wish you a very happy birthday today.  Ros is here and wishes you one too.  Hope you have a wonderful day with loads of cards and pressies.  Did phone but no reply so probably out celebrating. 

Do hope you will make it here next Saturday for the demo day.  All the stock has arrived in today and it all looks very interesting.

Ros is busy making up sample cards for the shop with all the new Kanban kits, they look stunning.

Thursday 7 July 2011

Crafts for All - Bristol University West of England (UWE)

Keep a note in your diary for September 8th, 9th & 10th to visit us at the show.  We have a big stand which will be full to the brim with great crafting products.  You will see me demonstrating using all your favourites plus some new ones.  I have some free tickets which  will be given away before the show starts.  Watch this space!!!

Demo Day Saturday 16th July

Only 9 days until this fantastic demo day with Michelle Johnson who has a project in this month's Making Cards.  Can't wait to see all the great techniques and tips she is going to be showing us.  Remember any time between 10.30 and 4.00p.m. pop in and take a look.

New Crafty Items

Hi Everyone, It's Liz Slater's birthday today so Happy Birthday to you and hope you have had a fantastic day.  I know you had a bit of pampering in the morning and then a nice lunch with friends.  Hope the day continues to be good.

The new July Kanban products arrived in today and they are all soooo! lovely.  Toppers and Decoupage for men and beautiful floral Toppers and card for all ocassions.  Just waiting on their new release of clear stamps, they are all super and a great price.  Can't wait to get my hands on them to create the cards for workshops and display.

Also arrived Making Cards and Parchment Craft magazines. As always full of great projects and stunning free papers.  Remember to book your copy as they go rather fast.

For those of you that are looking for a gift for a Friend, Mother, Grandma, Sister or Auntie, a new selection of Byzantium Swarovski Crystal Earrings and Pendants have arrived and very reasonably priced.  Pop in and have a look.  Got my eye on one or two pieces for myself.

Thursday 30 June 2011

New Nesting Dies

Hi everyone,
Well the end of another month. Isn't time flying by fast, tomorrow starts the seventh month of the year and guess what - I received my first Christmas order today and was quite excited to open it.  Sad really but then I am a crafter and need to get cracking on my Christmas cards.  Every year I make a promise to myself  I am going to be early but alas it never works out that way.  However the joy I will get is making Christmas  samples for the workshops over the next few weeks.  I also received the new Do Crafts Magazine and it is packed with great ideas for card makers and scrapbookers.  So call in and collect your copy.  The new XCut Nesting Dies have arrived and they are fabulous and such a great buy.  I have loaded up a picture of one of my favourites and they are all on the website now under new products.

Just wanted to say hello to Mabel, thanks for your lovely comments about the blog and look forward to seeing you soon.

Tuesday 28 June 2011

ProMarker Demo

Pencil in your diary the 8th October as we have Kirsty Wiseman in the store showing us all how to use our ProMarkers.  Come along any time between 10.30a.m and 4.00p.m.   We also have a promotion going on at the moment buy a ProMarker and get  the new fine tip free.  This tip fits over the end of the ProMarker for fine detail work.  This promotion will be on while stocks of this tip last so don't delay.  The tip works I have tried it!

Saturday Workshop

Hi everyone,
Well what a great day we had on Saturday at the workshop.  Claire had some really nice samples using the PI clear butterfly set.  We made a small square box and three little cards to go inside.  I have posted all the samples in the website workshop gallery for you to see.  For those of you who wish to purchase the stamps I still have some Project Sheets left.  It was very busy in the store too and I finally got home at 6.45p.m.  It was a long day but a thoroughly enjoyable one.

Tuesday 21 June 2011

Tuesday 21st June

Saturday's class was a great success.  Everyone seemed to have a good time and enjoyed making the cards.  It was amazing how different they all turned out and I was suitably impressed.  The board is now completed for display in the store so for those people I had to disappoint please call in and pick up a project sheet for one of the designs.  Our next delivery of the stamp is due in by the end of the week.  I have added some more dates in the autumn schedule for workshops so hopefully everyone will get a chance join us.  Keep checking the website for dates. 

Friday 17 June 2011

June 17th

Looking forward to the workshop tomorrow.  We will be making 3 cards using a lovely Stampendous Clear Stamp set.  I have made 6 cards to show the versatility of the set, but could have gone on making more.  So many ideas kept popping into my head. some of the cards are on the website gallery so take a look and give me some feedback or pop along and see them in the store.

Thursday 16 June 2011

Saturday July 16th

We have Michelle Johnston in store demonstrating Woodware and Stix2 products.  She will show you some exciting ideas with Punches , Peel-Offs, Pens, glitter and more... 10.30a.m - 4.00p.m. We look forward to seeing you.

Thursday 16th June 2011

New in store today -Marianne, Creatables & Craft Concepts, Embossing Folders.  Great designs for your cards & scrapbooking.

Wednesday 15 June 2011

Wild Rose Studios have released new clear stamps and 6x6 paper packs for June. They are due in store Friday 17th June. The images are on the website for you to see and pre-order

Here at last our own blog!!

Hi everyone, welcome to our very own blog.  Can't wait to get started .  Please visit us when  I will keep you up to date with what is happening in store.  New products, demonstrations and workshops will posted.  Also some great projects to keep you inspired