tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82256725925974971582024-03-13T00:46:38.340+00:00Crafting ConfessionsAimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.comBlogger589125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-10106473962321089052019-04-10T00:01:00.000+01:002019-04-10T00:01:04.732+01:00Retro Cool Cricut Mug & CoastersThis is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Cricut. The opinions and text are all mine.<br />
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<img alt="Floppy Disk Mug" height="640" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/7918/46850064784_9849f021ab_z.jpg" width="502" /></div>
<br />
Hey!<br />
<br />
Happy Wednesday! I'm back with another fun project created with my <a href="https://tap.fit/SJsw0P5tE" target="_blank">Cricut Maker</a> - I've explored testing out this sweet machine with fabric as I start my sewing adventure, glitter iron-on materials as it joined forces with the<a href="https://tap.fit/SJsw0P5tE" target="_blank"> EasyPress 2</a> so what's left to try out? Yup, good ol' vinyl.<br />
<br />
I've always been a fan of a vinyl project, mainly because it's such an easy medium to work with that's super-quick for adding a personal touch to objects. So, without further ado you'll see hat I've used new technology to celebrate old technology with this floppy disk mug.<br />
<br />
It was sooooooooooo easy to create; the floppy disk design can be found on <a href="https://tap.fit/SJsw0P5tE" target="_blank">Cricut Design Space</a> and all I had to do was resize the image to fit my mug. I'm impressed at the accuracy and intricate detail the <a href="https://tap.fit/SJsw0P5tE" target="_blank">Maker</a> cut from white vinyl - I mean, have you seen that tiny decimal point on the reference to the size of the floppy disk?! Amazing! I'd always recommend using the <a href="https://tap.fit/SJsw0P5tE" target="_blank">Cricut Transfer Tape</a> to transfer the vinyl design with ease and precision - it makes sure that all of those teeny, tiny elements stay in place <i>*wink*</i>.<br />
<br />
This mug was designed for my husband; Mr Gray is a geek at heart and has a soft spot for retro technology. Given that I'd designed this for the front of the mug, I couldn't resist adding a sentiment to the reverse side:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Old School Cool Mug" height="640" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/7926/32631456727_be218d84fe_z.jpg" width="478" /></div>
<br />
<br />
I was happy with the mug as it was, but decided to go just one step further and create a co-ordinating double-sided coaster. Well....I actually made two so I could shoot both sides of them in one go for you!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Old School Cool Coasters" height="640" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/7871/47521029842_8a5103478c_z.jpg" width="480" /><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
The coasters utilised the <a href="https://tap.fit/SJsw0P5tE" target="_blank">EasyPress 2</a> and must have taken all of 10 minutes to make, if that!</div>
</div>
<br />
I can confirm that Mr Gray loves his new mug and co-ordinating coaster and he's fully aware not to pop the mug in the dishwasher. With vinyl it's best to always gently wash any decorated items for longetivity.<br />
<br />
Now you don't have to go all 'old school cool' with this technique. The beauty of <a href="https://tap.fit/SJsw0P5tE" target="_blank">Cricut Design Space</a> means that there are literally hundereds upon hundreds of designs you could use and so many different colours and varities of <a href="https://tap.fit/SJsw0P5tE" target="_blank">vinyl</a> that the looks you can create are endless! So next time you're out and about, grab those inexpensive coasters and mugs and discover just how fun it can be to customise them!<br />
<br />
Speaking of coasters and mugs, I think it's time I signed off to fill my own mug with a cuppa. Thanks so much for stopping by today!<br />
<br />
<img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-41226817127476159282019-03-27T00:01:00.000+00:002019-03-27T21:32:49.277+00:00Cricut EasyPress 2 Review<p>This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Cricut. The opinions and text are all mine.</p><!-- TapInfluence Comment Widget - Do Not Edit or Remove --><div id="ti-pixel-tracker"></div><script type="text/javascript" src="https://influencers.tapinfluence.com/assets/cogs/core-v4.js"></script> <script>var ts=document.getElementById('ti-pixel-tracker'); var axel = Math.random() + ""; var num = axel * 1000000000000000000; var ti=document.createElement("img"); ti.style.display="none"; ti.src="https://tracking.tapinfluence.com/trk/5bCGp/yXM5z/p.png?p=4ZFj6" + String.fromCharCode(38) + "i=LWGeH" + String.fromCharCode(38) + "ord="+ num + String.fromCharCode(38) + "s=" + encodeURIComponent(document.referrer); ts.parentNode.replaceChild(ti,ts); JSON.stringify({"program_id":"421bc480-1e9a-11e9-973d-0a9d66b43152","post_id":"21543e0a-24ce-11e9-891d-0a9d66b43152"});</script><!-- End Widget -->
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<img alt="Cricut EasyPress Project" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7881/47413609032_4999d09789.jpg" width="468" /></div>
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<br />
Hey!<br />
<br />
Happy Wednesday - we're halfway through the working week, though mine is proving to be a busy one this week as I'm heading away for a business trip to Germany tomorrow. Kinda hoping I may find some yummy pretzels on the way...*wink*<br />
<br />
Anyways, enough about my working week, I'm here with a review of a hot product on the crafty market (I mean literally H.O.T.) - the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">Cricut EasyPress 2 9" x 9"</a> plus the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">Cricut EasyPress Mat in size 12" x 12"</a>.<br />
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<img alt="Cricut EasyPress and Mat" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7900/40500465853_abfd99b2f6.jpg" width="425" /></div>
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Cricut kindly gave me these product to review and here is my honest account of them. Firstly, let's take a closer look at the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">Cricut EasyPress 2</a>. Now I'm a convert when it comes to playing with Cricut iron-on materials as you may see from past projects <a href="https://craftingconfessions.blogspot.com/2015/05/creative-forces-unite.html">here</a>, <a href="https://craftingconfessions.blogspot.com/2014/07/kids-got-brand-new-bag.html">here</a> and <a href="https://craftingconfessions.blogspot.com/2014/05/exploring.html">here</a>. In fact, I still treasure this 'Hello' bag I made at the Cricut event waaaaaaay back in 2014.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="hello tote bag" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5575/14074169240_bb5c95d95b.jpg" width="316" /></div>
<br />
For these previous projects, I'd cut my project on my Cricut Explore and use my iron to apply the iron-on material. Completely logical, right? So what's different with the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">Cricut EasyPress 2</a> and why is it better over a regular iron? Well let me list the many reasons why:<br />
<br />
<b>1. EVEN APPLICATION OF HEAT</b><br />
This <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">EasyPress 2</a> features a super-smooth ceramic-coated heat plate in sizes beyond that of your regular iron in three sizes: 6" x 7", 9" x 9" and 12" x 10". There's a size for every project, but for me and my needs the 9" x 9" is juuuuuust right. No more moving the iron around over an iron-design to make sure it's all received the same application of heat - hurrah!<br />
<br />
<b>2. EASY TO USE</b><br />
Now I'm not saying an iron is hard to use (well...if it gets me out of regular ironing then I'd argue it!) but this machine is so incredibly easy to use. Simply use the interactive or downloadable guide to say what material your Cricut iron-on material is and what you'd like to apply it to and you'll be told the exact temperature required and pressing time. Simply input that in the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">EasyPress 2</a> and you're ready to go!<br />
<br />
<b>3. PROFESSIONAL RESULTS</b><br />
Now, this is the biggy for me. An iron will apply iron-on material just fine, but you need an even heat and pressure over the design if you want it to be durable wash after wash. <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">The EasyPress 2</a> does just that - especially when combined with the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">EasyPress Mat</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>4. SAFETY</b><br />
Another biggy here - especially for accident-prone peeps like me! The <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">EasyPress 2</a> comes with an Insulated Safety Base that protects the heat plate. As an added bonus it's pretty too! I mean, have you ever seen a prettier Insulated Safety Base? I thought not.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cricut EasyPress Base" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7811/40500465593_8d105e3752.jpg" width="420" /></div>
<br />
This base means you don't have a hot plate exposed to accidental touching like I do with my iron. Even better, the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">EasyPress 2</a> will also automatically turn off after 10 minutes of inactivity as an additional saftey feature.<br />
<br />
<b>WHAT'S INCLUDED?</b><br />
When you open the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">EasyPress 2</a>, Cricut share in the excitment with their fun branding and design:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cricut EasyPress - Lets do this" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7920/46551277155_3931f329dc.jpg" width="418" /> </div>
<br />
I love how Cricut make you feel so special when you open one of their products - it's that attention to detail that gets me smiling like the Cheshire Cat!<br />
<br />
You can get started straight away as Cricut kindly include a cotton drawstring bag and a sparkly green Cricut logo iron-on design! I'm saving the bag for a future project, I just need to decide what to put on it...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cricut Easypress Contents" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7911/40500465333_e336709be9.jpg" width="423" /></div>
<br />
So that's the<a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank"> EasyPress 2</a>. Now let's look at its partner in crime: the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">Cricut EasyPress Mat</a>. Now this is not complusory to have alongside the EasyPress 2, but it definietly aids in achieving that professional finishing result thanks to the technology it incorporates. You can use a regular folded towel under your projects, but the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">EasyPress Mat</a> features five layers of heat-resistant, moisture-wicking insulation and this is key for achieving that durability with iron-on designs. The mats come in three different sizes, each one complementing each size of the EasyPress 2 family.<br />
<br />
Now, let's have some fun and combine the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">Cricut EasyPress 2</a>, the<a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank"> EasyPress Mat</a>, the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">Cricut Maker</a>, some <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">gorgeous gold glitter iron-on material</a> to show just how easy it is to create your own iron-on projects!<br />
<br />
<b>STEP 1 - PRE-WASH YOUR ITEM</b><br />
Whatever you're going to apply your iron-on to, it's recommended that you pre-wash it without fabric softener. This helps to improve the durability of the finished project.<br />
<br />
<b>STEP 2 - PICK A DESIGN</b><br />
There are soooooooooooo many designs you can choose from in the Cricut Design Space library - many specifically designed for iron-on designs. Some of them are free, some you have to pay a small price for. I wanted to customise a black tote bag with artwork I'd purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/511235851/hustle-svg-cutting-files-hustle-hard-svg?ref=shop_home_active_10">from Etsy by liliumpixelsvg</a>, and the joy of Design Space is that you can do this with no problem whatsoever and for free!<br />
<b><br />STEP 3 - CUT THE DESIGN</b><br />
Don't forget to mirror your design when cutting it from iron-on material! Also place the iron-on material shiny side down onto the mat.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cricut Maker Cutting Glitter Iron On" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7821/47413608292_b79b4210a2_z.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<br />
You can leave the Maker to it, but I can never resist watching the cutting process - it's quite hypnotising!<br />
<br />
<b>STEP 4 - WEED THE DESIGN </b><br />
Basically, remove the background from the cut design. This is easy done when combined with the weeding tool. I find it quite theraputic!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Weeding Process" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7854/40500460873_ce2aeb58ba.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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<b>STEP 5 - SET UP THE EASYPRESS 2</b><br />
Simply access the interactive guide here or download a guide to determine the settings required on the EasyPress 2.<br />
<br />
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<img alt="Cricut EasyPress Interactive Guide" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7810/47413609812_c0cca6c809.jpg" width="390" /></div>
<br />
Input the required temperature and timing into the EasyPress 2.<br />
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<img alt="Cricut EasyPress On" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7907/47413609272_816230c1d2.jpg" width="401" /></div>
<br />
A green light will show and it'll beep to let you know when it's ready (another feature I appreciate!)<br />
<br />
<b>STEP 6 - PREP THE BASE MATERIAL</b><br />
Place the base material (in my case, a tote bag) on the Cricut EasyPress Mat (or alternatively a towel) and apply the EasyPress 2 on top for five seconds to withdraw any moisture. This step is really imporant to achieve that durability - don't skip it!<br />
<br />
<b>STEP 7 - PRESS IT, BABY! </b><br />
Position the iron-on design on the project and press the EasyPress 2 on top for the required amount of time by pressing the Cricut button to activate the timer. You don't need to press down super-hard. Then flip over the project and press the reverse side of the project for 15 seconds.<br />
<br />
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<img alt="Cricut EasyPress Action" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7906/46551276725_99a52cf2ef.jpg" width="385" /></div>
<br />
Again, this is an imporant step for durability purposes so don't skip it!<br />
<br />
<b>STEP 8 - PEEL AWAY</b><br />
Depending on the material used, peel the shiny backing of the iron-on design away while the project is still warm or when it's cooled. The interactive and downloadable guide will inform you whether to adopt a warm or cold peel for you project.<br />
<br />
<b>STEP 9 - TA-DAH!</b> <br />
Your project is complete!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Hustle Hard" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7805/33589972158_938f1f12cc_z.jpg" width="423" /></div>
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Allow 24 hours after application before washing and always wash and tumble dry the project inside out.<br />
<br />
I think I'm going to find it hard to part with this bag, much like the first 'Hello' bag I made back in 2004, this one is going to stay with me. *wink*<br />
<br />
I hope you found this review and project useful! I'll be back with more in the future for sure. Thanks so much for stopping by today!<br />
<br />
<img alt="Signature2" border="0" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-89879776472399522012019-03-13T00:01:00.000+00:002019-03-13T00:01:00.255+00:00Making it with the Cricut Maker...This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Cricut. The opinions and text are all mine.<br />
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<img alt="Cricut Adventure" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7897/47295620502_b4f5019ef7.jpg" width="491" /></div>
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Hey! </div>
<br />
Happy Tuesday! How the heck did it get to March already? Spring is waiting ever-so
patiently to arrive here, but winter wanted the last word this past
weekend which was fine by me as it gave me the perfect opportunity to
play with a new crafty toy: the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">Cricut Maker</a>!<br />
<br />
Now those of you that follow me on my crafty adventures know that I'm
a huge fan of<a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank"> Cricut</a> since I got my crafty mitts on the <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">Cricut Explore One</a> waaaaaaaaaaay back in 2014. I loved that it opened doors to
experiment with a wide variety of crafts and introduced me to fun with
iron-on materials, vinyl and more.<br />
<br />
When <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">Cricut </a>reached out to ask if I would review and play with the
<a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">Cricut Maker</a> I was thrilled. I've been eyeing up these mystical Makers and wondering if
it was something I was missing out on. I didn't make the jump from the
Cricut Explore Air to the Cricut Explore 2 as I felt that I could
get along just fine with my Air. But was I right in thinking that I was
missing out with a Maker?<br />
<br />
In a word, yes. That's the short answer and based on the fact that
this machine opens a whole new world of creative opportunities with the
cutting capabilities and tools available. At the core of this is the
Maker's amazing adaptive tools system that can hold tools such as the rotary cutter and
knife blade:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Maker Rotary Cutter" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7855/47295682682_bb5b2efcef_z.jpg" width="458" /></div>
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That rotary blade cuts through fabric like a hot knife through butter
with extreme precision. It's also a much safer option than your traditional rotary cutter for accident prone peeps like me! I found that I normally had to add a backing or stabiliser when cutting fabric with my Explore,
but with the Maker and this blade I simply pop my fabric on my FabriGrip
mat and let the Maker do the rest. No stabilising required whatsoever! I can't wait to find time to play
with felt - hello, felt flowers!<br />
<br />
The knife blade (not included with the machine) cuts with 10 times more pressure than the Explore Air
2 so thicker materials are no problem for this
machine. If you like experimenting with materials such as leather and
wood then this a the game changer. Don't be fooled by its
strength though: this machine can also handle delicate materials too such as crepe
paper.<br />
<br />
That adaptive tools system hosts a variety of other tools
that can be purchased separately. Along with the knife blade I’ll be eyeing up the scoring wheels. The good thing is that I can use my scoring
stylus from my Cricut Explore Air while I wait as it fits the Cricut
Maker.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you're already familiar with the<a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank"> Cricut machine family</a>, then
you'll know and appreciate that extra detail they go to upon opening the
box to guiding you through your first project. It's no different with
the Maker. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cricut Maker Get Started" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7895/33472220838_969849f9ee.jpg" width="436" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cricut Maker First Project" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7830/47295621122_b784d17257_z.jpg" width="511" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Oh, and did I mention it also features a handy stand for your iPad/tablet? Don’t even get me started on how much I love designing on the Cricut Design Space app on the iPad: I can be designing on the go (or curled up on my sofa) whenever inspiration strikes! :) <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cricut Maker iPad" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7882/47295623392_98f7e4d6c5_z.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Here's a breakdown of what's included with the Maker:<br />
<ul>
<li>Cricut Maker® machine </li>
<li>Rotary Blade + Drive Housing </li>
<li>Premium Fine-Point Blade + Housing </li>
<li>Fine Point Pen, Black </li>
<li>FabricGrip™ Mat, 12" x 12" (30.5cm x 30.5cm) </li>
<li>LightGrip Mat, 12" x 12" (30.5cm x 30.5cm) </li>
<li>Welcome Book </li>
<li>USB cable </li>
<li>Power adapter </li>
<li>Free trial membership to Cricut Access™ (for new subscribers) </li>
<li>50 free ready-to-make projects, including 25 sewing patterns </li>
<li>Materials for a practice project</li>
</ul>
<br />
Now, it wouldn't be right if I didn't share a project with you that I
created while testing out this machine. I set myself a real challenge as
I wanted to test that rotary blade with fabric. I wouldn't call myself a
sewist, but I do have a sewing machine and I've found myself wanting to
play with it so I was hoping that the Maker would make this easy for
me. Typical Aimes here picked not a beginner but an intermediate project, but the fact that
the cutting was all done for me by the Maker and that full instructions
were provided through Design Space gave me the confidence to try.
Well....the instructions that showed all I needed to do was stitch straight
lines anyway!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cricut Maker Coaster" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7800/33472224368_d5af04d29f_z.jpg" width="481" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Now don't look too closely at the stitching, but that fact I was able
to whip this up as a total newbie to sewing got me excited!<br />
<br />
Anyone for tea? <br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Time for Tea" height="458" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7853/33472224948_7b7f97d1c2.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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I'm now eyeing up the rest of the fabric I've hoarded along with all
of the other materials I've got stashed in my craft room and feel
totally inspired to cut into it and make something of it!<br />
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So, do you need a <a href="https://tap.fit/S1Y8s-CX4" target="_blank">Cricut Maker</a>? In my honest opinion it depends
entirely on what kind of crafter you are and your budget. The Maker is
more expensive than the Explore Air, but offers so much more
versatility. This is a machine that is going to grow with me as I try my
hand at projects beyond papercraft and vinyl. That's exactly what I
thought I was missing out on by not having one. I know that I am going
to get some serious use (and fun!) out of this machine.<br />
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Right, I've shared one project with you but I have so many more
crafty Maker adventures to share with you soon....Watch
this space! <br />
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/proxy/-cDS1qhFB_AKPKzxSf85YbUMf8aC7WEhkx3UyyNJVD2llmfiuUWbgnHgq3uPd1Cm60PyFBev-4yD36TL2L9EZVp_Fe0AEBPCpYNFtu_rPLJ3Fw" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Signature2" border="0" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" /></a><br />
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<img alt="Hello" height="375" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7867/46325158044_8e443c66a8.jpg" width="500" /></div>
Hey!<br />
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Happy Sunday! I hope that you’re having a wonderful weekend. Mine has been pretty chilled after battling a yucky lurgy/illness for the past week or so. Once we’d got the chores out of the way, I enjoyed finding sometime to sit down and doodle. :)<br />
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I really need to get more acquainted with my iPad Pro and ProCreate after seeing the amazing work out there that can be created on it. I decided to follow this <a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=3ttHWMhR1Bo" target="_blank">easy YouTube tutorial</a> by talented by Teela Cunningham of <a href="https://m.youtube.com/user/everytues" target="_blank">Every Tuesday</a>. This doodle is no masterpiece, and practise makes perfect, but the creative process was really fun so I thought I’d share it here.<br />
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I often wonder if doodles represent our subconscious throughts. If so, I think I can safely assume that my subconscious is wishing for spring!<br />
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Thanks so much for stopping by today!<br />
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<img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-13649273265648051632019-01-26T12:46:00.000+00:002019-01-26T12:46:59.875+00:00Upcycled Mandala Stool<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Mandala Stool Close Up" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7844/46156041314_2083feb03f_z.jpg" width="471" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photography credit: <a href="http://www.crafterscompanion.co.uk/">www.crafterscompanion.co.uk</a> </span></div>
Hey!<br />
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Hooray for the weekend! Hooray for saying goodbye to what has felt like a super-crazy-busy week! I’m looking forward to finding some time to wind down this weekend and getting a little more creative. :)<br />
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So, do you remember <a href="https://craftingconfessions.blogspot.com/2018/10/work-in-progress.html" target="_blank">this post</a> where I shared a work-in-progress shot of what I busy creating? Well, the reveal time has come to share the finished project. This upcycled stool was so easy to create with basic supplies.<br />
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<img alt="Mandala Stool" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7921/45966497235_319c267e46_z.jpg" width="427" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photography credit: <a href="http://www.crafterscompanion.co.uk/">www.crafterscompanion.co.uk</a></span></div>
I purchased <a href="https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/products/chairs-stools-benches/stools-benches/frosta-stool-birch-plywood-art-24286205/" target="_blank">this stool</a> from IKEA and simply sanded the seat, painted it and then stenciled <a href="https://www.crafterscompanion.co.uk/threaders-home-decor-stencils-mandala-set-2.html" target="_blank">this stunning mandala design</a> onto it before assembling the stool:<br />
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<img alt="Mandala Stool Bird’s Eye View" height="449" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4803/46156047214_a325fcf035_z.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photography credit: <a href="http://www.crafterscompanion.co.uk/">www.crafterscompanion.co.uk</a></span></div>
Ideally, you’d want to use white spray paint for the stenciling process and then seal it. However, I didn’t have any to hand and I was in the creative zone I used embossing paste instead. This added a really cool dimension, but I wouldn’t recommend doing this if you want to park your tush on it! This will be more of a decorative stool for the home *wink*.<br />
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<img alt="Mandala Stool Close Up 2" height="333" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4870/39916147043_a24c89c18c.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photography credit: <a href="http://www.crafterscompanion.co.uk/">www.crafterscompanion.co.uk</a></span></div>
<a href="https://www.crafterscompanion.co.uk/threaders-home-decor-stencils-mandala-set-2.html">The stencil</a> is part of a range of home d<span class="st">é</span>cor stencils that Threaders have just launched. Threaders are more commonly associated with sewing, but the beauty of these stencils is that they can be utilised across so many different crafts! Not only are there intricate mandala designs, but there are super-cute Scandi styles too. I’ll definitely be playing with more of these in the future!<br />
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If you’re interested, the stencils can be found <a href="https://www.crafterscompanion.co.uk/catalogsearch/result/?q=threaders+home+decor+stencils+mandala&order=relevance&dir=desc">here</a>. They come in sets of two, and if you act quick, they’re currently on offer at two packs for £20!<br />
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Thanks so much for stopping by today. I hope that you have a super-duper weekend!<br />
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<img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-20262198206452677292019-01-19T15:24:00.001+00:002019-01-19T15:28:02.742+00:00You + Me<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="You + Me" height="500" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4855/32925449958_2e2ae3ca0c.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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Hey!<br />
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Right, let's get the formalities outta the way here. Happy 2019! Long time no see! For various reasons, I've been away and I'd say that I've missed you, but I've been seeing most of you on that happy place known as Instagram, and I've still been dabbling in the crafting from time to time. ;)<br />
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So, let's kick off 2019 with a good intention. An intention to enjoy the process of playing with pretty things to get a craft fix, and also busting some stash in the process. I have a lot of stash that I've sat and admired for literally years, and the time has come to administer the scissors and glue to it *gulp*!<br />
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Cue today's card, which was a creative distraction from cleaning my office upon discovering my stash of the Hello, Love collection by Crate Paper (and the bonus of creating Mr Gray's Valentine's card early!). You could easily use modern-day supplies to create this with some gorgeous gold heat-embossing. Grab a heart stamp and a couple of sentiment stamps to recreate the look!<br />
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Right, I'm gonna keep things short and sweet here. But I hope that you all have a great weekend and thank you so much for taking the time to stop by today!<br />
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<img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-2526939735517507372018-10-22T16:06:00.000+01:002019-01-19T16:07:54.781+00:00Work in progress...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="Work in Progress" height="500" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7824/46076752454_d379c60415.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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Hey!<br />
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I'm gonna start today's post with a question. What's your idea of a lovely day? Mine would have to be getting creative, enjoying some winter sunshine and getting some fresh air in the countryside with a walk to gather thoughts. And that's exactly what I've done today on my day off. :) <br /><br />I couldn't resist sharing a work-in-progress shot of some creative fun I've been having on my lovely day today. It's technically a sneak peek of some products. I can't say any more at this stage but I'll be able to say more in early 2019. ;) <br /><br />I must admit that it makes a change to step away from cardstock and paper, but I'm really enjoying it. Stencils, paint, and items to upcycle from IKEA - this could get addictive...! <br /><br />Right, I'm gonna keep things short and sweet as it's time for me to sign off and clean up today's creative mess! Thanks so much for continuing to stop by, I know I'm a tad intermitent with my posts at the moment as I take a slight step back from things but fear not, the creative bug has still got me and it's a bug that can stay as long as it likes! <br />
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<img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-15664835376100645262017-03-18T13:00:00.000+00:002017-03-18T17:31:55.252+00:00Charity Blog Hop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hey!<br />
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Happy Saturday and happy weekend! I'm here today to take part in a super-fun charity blog hop organised by <b><a href="http://sandyallnock.com/posts-page/" target="_blank">Sandy Allnock</a></b>! You should have hopped here from the talented <b><a href="http://sideoatsandscribbles.wumple.com/2017/03/18/charity/" target="_blank">Lisa Spangler</a><span id="goog_671857022"></span><span id="goog_671857023"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a></b>, but if you haven't then be sure to start out at <b><a href="http://sandyallnock.com/goats-charity-bloghop/" target="_blank">Sandy's blog</a></b> for all the deets!<br />
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The idea behind this blog hop is to give to charity in the name of a loved one by purchasing a gift from the charity of our choice and create a project based on it. My charity of choice is the <b><a href="http://www.rspb.org.uk/" target="_blank">Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB)</a></b>. I fell hook, line, and sinker for this beautiful mug of theirs:<br />
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<img alt="RSPB mug" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3670/32665089814_7d3fce1de7_z.jpg" width="514" /></div>
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I have a soft spot for wrens (and robins too!) as they remind me of my dear dad; he'd love to see them in the garden, so it's no surprise that this mug jumped into my online shopping basket. I dug out my Meadow Bird Memory Box die, a new <b><a href="https://www.simonsaysstamp.com/product/Simon-Says-Clear-Stamps-ARTSY-FLOWER-PARTS-SSS101701-New-Beginnings-SSS101701?currency=USD" target="_blank">Artsy Flower Parts stamp set</a></b> from Simon Says Stamp and my beloved <b><a href="https://altenew.com/products/label-love" target="_blank">Label Love stamp set</a></b> from Altenew to create this project inspired by it:<br />
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<img alt="Hi" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3901/33125004550_64ace1bc6f_z.jpg" width="426" /></div>
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The bird has been paper-pieced from green and white cardstock as well as some <b><a href="https://sevenhillscrafts.co.uk/products/wooden-products.html" target="_blank">peel and stick wood veneer from Seven Hills Crafts</a></b>. I love how it adds a touch of texture to the bird and the fact that it's adhesive makes it super-easy to paper-piece with too. Bonus! :)<br />
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This mug and card will be popping to a dear crafty friend of mine – I hope that they'll like it! As you can see, my project is a pretty literal take on the mug in both design and colours.<br />
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<img alt="Mug and card" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3692/33508785415_7320c6c3da_z.jpg" width="488" /></div>
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Getting creative and sending happy mail to a friend while donating to a good cause is a wonderful idea. I hope it inspires you to do the same too! There's even more fun to be had with this charitable blog hop as there's fab prizes up for grabs as well:<br />
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Simply leave a comment on the blogs for you chance to win one of these prizes from these generous companies. Comments need to be left by <b>Wednesday 22nd March</b>. The lucky winners will be announced on <b><a href="http://sandyallnock.com/posts-page/" target="_blank">Sandy's blog</a></b> on <b>Thursday 23rd March.</b> :)<br />
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Right, that's all from me today, but next on your hopping adventure is <b><a href="http://www.allthesparkle.com/" target="_blank">Jessica Frost-Ballas</a></b>!<br />
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<img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com95tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-52361523537647874362016-12-09T12:00:00.000+00:002016-12-09T12:00:12.326+00:00Advent Calendar Extravaganza with Taheerah Atchia<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LLzvkMAyc9U/WEQpQ6mPFCI/AAAAAAAAIkE/BvST2QRI33UgzGpZ-S9xysHFDgOfvt6eQCLcB/s1600/Advent%2BCalenda%2BExtravaganza.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LLzvkMAyc9U/WEQpQ6mPFCI/AAAAAAAAIkE/BvST2QRI33UgzGpZ-S9xysHFDgOfvt6eQCLcB/s400/Advent%2BCalenda%2BExtravaganza.png" width="360" /></a></div>
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Hey!<br />
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Happy Friday! Today I'm joining in the fun of the wonderful Advent Calendar Extravaganza with Taheerah Atchia!<br />
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Advent Calendar Extravaganza is –the– festive event of the season! This 'hop with a twist' was dreamed up by <b><a href="http://www.taheerah-atchia.com/" target="_blank">Taheerah Atchia</a></b> and features surprise destinations each day! Joining in the fun with Taheerah are ONE HUNDRED special guests – each serving up some fantastic Christmas inspiration! Just like an advent calendar, you'll never know where you're going to be visiting next until you 'open the door'!<br />
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And that's not all! With 25 *amazing* sponsors taking part as guests as well, your crafty wish list is bound to get a boost with a chance to win a prize EVERY SINGLE DAY!!<br />
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Join in the fun every day at <b><a href="http://www.taheerah-atchia.com/" target="_blank">taheera-atchia.com</a></b> to see what special surprises await behind the door!<br />
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Today is Day 9 of the advent calendar and is sponsored by the wonderful peeps from <b><a href="https://www.simonsaysstamp.com/" target="_blank">Simon Says Stamp</a></b>! I had a dig through my <b><a href="https://www.simonsaysstamp.com/" target="_blank">Simon Says Stamp</a></b> goodies and had fun creating this festive little number featuring the <b><a href="https://www.simonsaysstamp.com/product/Simon-Says-Clear-Stamps-POINSETTIA-SSS101651-Believe-In-The-Season-SSS101651?currency=USD" target="_blank">Poinsettia stamp </a></b>set from the Believe In The Season collection:<br />
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<img alt="Christmas Greetings-2 copy" height="487" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/6/5607/31400150931_27cdbd3424.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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The background of the card was created by applying gold glitter paste through the <b><a href="https://www.simonsaysstamp.com/product/Simon-Says-Stamp-Stencil-FALLING-SNOW-SSST121324-62360" target="_blank">Simon Says Stamp Falling Snow stencil</a></b>. Who said snow had to be white? I like mine gold! ;)<br />
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<img alt="Christmas Greetings close up2 copy" height="341" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/1/133/30674894054_b201c9f06b.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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It's not a party without a prize – and with prizes every day there are several chances to win! Today's prize is generously supplied by Simon Says Stamp so you'll definitely want to win! Simply leave a comment on this post then head back to <b><a href="http://www.taheerah-atchia.com/" target="_blank">taheerah-atchia.com</a></b> and leave a comment there too. You must leave a comment on Taheerah's blog as well as mine to be eligible to win! Don't forget to grab the other surprise destinations from Taheerah's blog and head over to them to leave comments there as well to improve your odds even more! You have until <b>23:59pm EST on 31st December 2016</b> to enter.<br />
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Don't forget the Advent Calendar Extravaganza runs from 1st-25th December so make sure you visit <b><a href="http://www.taheerah-atchia.com/" target="_blank">taheerah-atchia.com</a></b> every day for fabulous inspiration and amazing prizes every single time!<br />
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Happy advent calendar hopping and good luck!<br />
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<img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com201tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-42819271359267933462016-11-22T19:03:00.000+00:002016-11-22T19:03:02.818+00:00Altenew November Blog Hop Winner!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OAF-QBj-1KQ/WCoh519a_zI/AAAAAAAAIeo/NVkA3kVimaYOio_LPdH10RWxp-JNnYs0ACPcB/s1600/AltenewBlogHop_Nov152016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OAF-QBj-1KQ/WCoh519a_zI/AAAAAAAAIeo/NVkA3kVimaYOio_LPdH10RWxp-JNnYs0ACPcB/s400/AltenewBlogHop_Nov152016.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Hey!<br />
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Happy Tuesday! It's about to be a super-happy Tuesday for one lucky peep as I'm here to announce the randomly selected winner a $30 Altenew gift certificate from the wonderful <b><a href="http://craftingconfessions.blogspot.co.uk/2016/11/altenew-november-2016-blog-hop.html#comment-form" target="_blank">Altenew November Blog Hop</a></b>!<br />
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So, without further ado, the lucky winner is:<br />
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<dt class="comment-author " id="c9023034435362140312" style="color: #7f7f7f; font-family: 'Josefin Sans'; font-size: 16px; margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/profile/17474316682705347486" rel="nofollow" style="color: #84f8c3; text-decoration: none;">Denise candelaria</a> said...</dt>
<dd class="comment-body" style="color: #7f7f7f; font-family: 'Josefin Sans'; font-size: 16px; margin: 0.25em 0px 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0.75em; text-align: center;">
Your card is simple and easy to create if I had to make a lot of them. Which since I am new that would be good for me.</div>
</dd><br />
Congrats, <b><a href="https://plus.google.com/103744744470650463722" target="_blank">Denise</a></b>! To claim your prize, please email Altenew at <b>winner@altenew.com </b>with the subject line '<b>November Release Blog Hop Winner from Amy's Blog</b>'. Happy shopping! :D<br />
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Thanks to everyone who hopped along with us! If you enjoyed seeing the new November release in action, then you may be interested to know that I've whipped up a card featuring the new Hello Sunshine stamp set on the Altenew blog. Here's a sneak peek of it:<br />
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<img alt="Hello Sunshine close up" height="369" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5327/30373695553_a690e3953a.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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You can check out the full post <b><a href="http://altenewblog.com/2016/11/18/hello-sunshine/" target="_blank">here</a> </b>if you're interested. :)<br />
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Thanks so much for stopping by today!<br />
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<img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-10350352572669308592016-11-20T11:00:00.000+00:002016-11-20T11:00:16.219+00:0025 Days of Christmas Tags<br />
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Hey!<br />
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Happy Sunday! I'm here today to join <b><a href="http://inmycreativeopinion.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/25%20Days%20of%20Christmas%20Tags" target="_blank">Tracey McNeely's 25 Days of Christmas Tags</a></b> on behalf of <b><a href="https://altenew.com/collections/all" target="_blank">Altenew</a></b> who are sponsoring the event today and offering a <b>$30 gift certificate</b> for one lucky peep. Be sure to visit <b><a href="http://inmycreativeopinion.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/25%20Days%20of%20Christmas%20Tags" target="_blank">Tracey's blog</a></b> for the full deets, inspiration, giveaways and the opportunity to join in the fun by linking up your own tags for the chance to win even more prizes!<br />
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Have you seen the sponsors for this event? Check them all out below!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8UKMte_fNQM/WDDZZkJLaMI/AAAAAAAAIfU/RD1uJPi-QEkR-ytsO-g0Y9AC51CLKDALQCLcB/s1600/Sponsors%2B2016.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="371" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8UKMte_fNQM/WDDZZkJLaMI/AAAAAAAAIfU/RD1uJPi-QEkR-ytsO-g0Y9AC51CLKDALQCLcB/s400/Sponsors%2B2016.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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For my tag, I decided to have fun with Altenew's <b><a href="https://altenew.com/products/bells-and-bows-stamp-die-bundle" target="_blank">Bells and Bows stamp set and co-ordinating dies</a></b> along with a sentiment from the <b><a href="https://altenew.com/products/modern-deer-stamp-set" target="_blank">Modern Deer stamp set</a></b>.<br />
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<img alt="Season's Greetings tag" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5618/30752194280_6a8dacb24b_z.jpg" width="397" /></div>
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I thought it'd be fun to create a bauble-style tag by simply die-cutting a circle of green cardstock and threading baker's twine through the top of it. I then heat-embossed the sentiment from Modern Deer across it and affixed a stamped and die-cut bow to the top. I needed Mr Gray on hand to photograph this tag, literally! He's holding up the twine for me. :)<br />
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I hope you find time to check out the full <b><a href="http://inmycreativeopinion.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/25%20Days%20of%20Christmas%20Tags" target="_blank">25 Days of Christmas Tags</a></b> event. Thanks so much for stopping by today and I hope you have a super Sunday!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aimes_wanford/8325253989/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Signature2 by Amy Wanford, on Flickr"><img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" /></a><br />
<br />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-25900999514192933082016-11-15T14:00:00.000+00:002016-11-15T14:00:10.907+00:00Altenew November 2016 Blog Hop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OAF-QBj-1KQ/WCoh519a_zI/AAAAAAAAIeg/o1wOiiB0_NwaIEkzwqdUuUM5o17JAQ3-gCLcB/s1600/AltenewBlogHop_Nov152016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OAF-QBj-1KQ/WCoh519a_zI/AAAAAAAAIeg/o1wOiiB0_NwaIEkzwqdUuUM5o17JAQ3-gCLcB/s400/AltenewBlogHop_Nov152016.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Hey!<br />
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<span id="goog_284042922"></span><span id="goog_284042923"></span>Happy Tuesday! I'm here today to celebrate <b><a href="https://altenew.com/" target="_blank">Altenew's</a></b> fantastic release of 16 brand-new stamp sets and 8 die sets as part of a good ol' fashioned blog hop. You should have hopped across here from the amazing <b><a href="http://www.yanasmakula.com/" target="_blank">Yana Smakula</a></b> – if you haven't then be sure to start out at <b><a href="http://wp.me/p6Dps1-3hX" target="_blank">Altenew HQ</a></b>. :)<br />
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For my blog hop project, I couldn't resist inking up the super-trendy <b><a href="https://altenew.com/products/happy-dreams-stamp-set" target="_blank">Happy Dreams stamp set</a></b> to create a motivational card for a dear friend of mine.<br />
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<img alt="Be a dreamer...make it happen!" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5673/30898705921_447959616e_z.jpg" width="443" /></div>
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I decided to pair two sentiments together for this design. The way that the main sentiment has those little thought bubbles trickling down just called for it! The three stars are from a cluster of stars from the stamp set and I stamped them using <b><a href="https://altenew.com/collections/inks/products/volcano-lake-dye-ink" target="_blank">V</a><a href="https://altenew.com/collections/inks/products/volcano-lake-dye-ink" target="_blank">olcano Lake ink</a></b> to add a pop of colour and a visual triangle to complement the focal point. Easy. Peasy. :D<br />
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Now a blog hop wouldn't be a blog hop without some prizes and special offers, right? Well first up Altenew have a fantastic promotional offer by offering a free You Make Me Happy stamp set with every purchase! <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ptKmW_KRU-U/WCokgQcEYTI/AAAAAAAAIew/zVF31H4yNSAFKOj-nStwetohIoWfrP1XQCLcB/s1600/1111_free_mini_stampset_small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="85" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ptKmW_KRU-U/WCokgQcEYTI/AAAAAAAAIew/zVF31H4yNSAFKOj-nStwetohIoWfrP1XQCLcB/s400/1111_free_mini_stampset_small.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This offer is available while stocks last and the set will automatically be added to your order. Hurry though, the offer ends on Thursday November 17th 2016 at 11:59pm EST and is limited to one per customer.<br />
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Secondly, Altenew are celebrating the blog hop by giving away a<b> $50 gift certificate </b>to THREE lucky winners! To be in with a chance of winning, simply leave a comment on the <b><a href="http://wp.me/p6Dps1-3hX" target="_blank">Altenew blog</a></b> by <b>Monday November 21st 11:59pm EST</b> and the winners will be announced on the Altenew Blog on <b>Tuesday November 22nd</b>.<br />
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If that wasn't enough, there's also the chance to win a <b>$30 gift certificate</b> right here on this blog post! Simply leave a comment here by <b>Monday November 21st at 5:00pm EST</b> and I'll announce the lucky winner on <b>Tuesday November 22nd</b>. :)<br />
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Right, there's some serious hopping to be done so that's enough from me today! Next on your inspirational blog hopping adventure the fantastic, <b><a href="http://www.thedailymarker.com/" target="_blank">Kathy Racoosin</a></b>. Enjoy!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aimes_wanford/8325253989/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Signature2 by Amy Wanford, on Flickr"><img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" /></a><br />
<br />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com227tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-82326123737345727542016-10-27T14:00:00.000+01:002016-10-27T20:43:58.405+01:00Altenew & Pretty Pink Posh Collaboration Blog Hop<span id="goog_1654290322"></span><span id="goog_1654290323"></span><br />
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Hey!<br />
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Today <b><a href="http://altenew.com/collections/all" target="_blank">Altenew</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.shopprettypinkposh.com/default.asp" target="_blank">Pretty Pink Posh</a></b> are joining forces for a special collaboration blog hop full of inspiration, special offers and prizes galore! You should have hopped on over here from <b><a href="http://housesbuiltofcards.blogspot.co.uk/2016/10/pppaltenew-collaboration-blog-hop.html" target="_blank">Heather Hoffman</a></b>, but if you haven't then be sure to start out at <a href="http://altenewblog.com/2016/10/27/altenew-pretty-pink-posh-collaboration-blog-hop/" target="_blank"><b>Altenew HQ</b>.</a> :)<br />
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<b><a href="http://altenew.com/collections/all" target="_blank">Altenew</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.shopprettypinkposh.com/default.asp" target="_blank">Pretty Pink Posh</a></b> products complement each other beautifully and they're ideal for making a start on your Christmas/holiday projects! I couldn't resist shaking things up a bit by inking up Altenew's <b><a href="http://altenew.com/products/modern-deer-stamp-set" target="_blank">Modern Deer stamp set</a></b> (again!) and pairing it with <b><a href="http://www.shopprettypinkposh.com/MiniSparklingClear-p/sequins0.htm" target="_blank">Pretty Pink Posh clear 4mm sequins</a></b>.<br />
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<img alt="Walking in a winter wonderland" height="640" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/6/5328/29952797623_83aaf251c6_z.jpg" width="433" /></div>
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I've also paired the Modern Deer stamp set with the<b><a href="http://altenew.com/products/winter-cottage" target="_blank"> Winter Cottage stamp set </a></b>for the backdrop of the scene. I simply coloured elements of it with a white gel pen and added touches of glitter glue for an icy sparkle. :)<br />
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<img alt="Walking in a winter wonderland close up" height="356" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/6/5444/30498509021_4c2b47248d.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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This blog hop is a pretty special one as Altenew and Pretty Pink Posh are celebrating our their<b><a href="http://altenewblog.com/2015/10/23/altenew-pretty-pink-posh-blog-hop/" target="_blank"> first anniversary of collaborating</a></b> so they're celebrating in style by having amazing giveaways and offers!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D0bSD9v56f8/WBEQiAAgpzI/AAAAAAAAIbg/yi2fbusAZo4JGJDePSr0UNW88HY_qQF4ACLcB/s1600/Giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D0bSD9v56f8/WBEQiAAgpzI/AAAAAAAAIbg/yi2fbusAZo4JGJDePSr0UNW88HY_qQF4ACLcB/s400/Giveaway.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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There's two $100 prize packs from Altenew and Pretty Pink Posh up for grabs. Two winners will be randomly selected from comments left on any one of the blogs in the blog hop. You've got to be in it to win it, so be sure to leave comments by <b>Wednesday 2nd November 2016 at midnight EST</b>. Winners will be announced on the <b><a href="http://altenewblog.com/2016/09/24/celebrating-co-ordinating-dies/" target="_blank">Altenew</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.prettypinkposh.com/blog" target="_blank">Pretty Pink Posh blogs</a></b> on <b>Thursday November 3rd</b>.<br />
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Also, if you fancy a little retail therapy, then Altenew and Pretty Pink Posh are offering you 10% off your entire order. Simply enter 'ALTENEWLOVESPPP' at the checkout for <b><a href="http://altenew.com/collections/all" target="_blank">Altenew orders </a></b>and 'PPPLOVESALTENEW' for <b><a href="http://www.shopprettypinkposh.com/default.asp" target="_blank">Pretty Pink Posh orders</a></b>. Hurry though, the offer is only available until <b>midnight EST on Sunday 30th October 2016</b>.<br />
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Right, that's enough babbling from me. There's some serious hopping to be done! Next on your hopping adventure is <b><a href="http://stampandglitter.blogspot.co.uk/2016/10/pretty-pink-posh-and-altenew-blog-hop.html" target="_blank">Shannon McComb</a></b>. :)<br />
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Thanks so much for hopping on by today!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aimes_wanford/8325253989/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Signature2 by Amy Wanford, on Flickr"><img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" /></a><br />
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<br />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com176tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-10005814312618069792016-10-20T21:58:00.001+01:002016-10-20T21:58:46.242+01:00Altenew October Blog Hop Winner!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AiWKca-RL3s/V_9IFKBnWpI/AAAAAAAAIXE/hqnivbAjWRIRwe3p42XXiRNk94HzEy2EwCPcB/s1600/Altenew%2BOctober%2BBlog%2BHop%2B720x450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AiWKca-RL3s/V_9IFKBnWpI/AAAAAAAAIXE/hqnivbAjWRIRwe3p42XXiRNk94HzEy2EwCPcB/s400/Altenew%2BOctober%2BBlog%2BHop%2B720x450.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Hey!</div>
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Happy Friday Eve! :D It's going to be a super-happy one for one lucky peep as it's time to announce the winner of the $30 Altenew gift certificate from comments left on my post from the fun <b><a href="http://craftingconfessions.blogspot.co.uk/2016/10/altenew-october-2016-release-blog-hop.html" target="_blank">Altenew October 2016 Release blog hop</a></b>!</div>
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So, without further ado, the randomly selected winner is:<br />
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<dt class="comment-author " id="c8377560882588497893" style="color: #7f7f7f; font-family: 'Josefin Sans'; font-size: 16px; margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/profile/01493966985602957129" rel="nofollow" style="color: #84f8c3; text-decoration: none;">Ginny Klima</a></dt>
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<span style="color: #999999;">Love the beautiful deer card you made, and the addition of the wood grain effect was perfect! thanks for sharing and thanks for the chance to win!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #999999;">~Gin K.~</span></div>
</dd><dd class="comment-footer" style="color: #7f7f7f; font-family: 'Josefin Sans'; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.1em; line-height: 1.4em; margin: -0.25em 0px 2em; text-transform: uppercase;"><span class="comment-timestamp"><span class="item-control blog-admin pid-467628368" style="display: inline;"></span></span></dd>Contgrats, <b><a href="https://plus.google.com/104244840864878444472" target="_blank">Ginny</a></b>! To claim your prize, please email Altenew at <i>winner@altenew.com</i> with the subject line<i> 'October Release Blog Hop Winner from Amy's blog'.</i> Happy shopping! :D<br />
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<img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" /><br />
<br />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-12568142000823515122016-10-13T14:00:00.000+01:002016-10-13T14:00:27.504+01:00Altenew October 2016 Release Blog Hop<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AiWKca-RL3s/V_9IFKBnWpI/AAAAAAAAIXA/6TzWx3OyJmgycPk5sopw_786fHjbz3RPwCLcB/s1600/Altenew%2BOctober%2BBlog%2BHop%2B720x450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AiWKca-RL3s/V_9IFKBnWpI/AAAAAAAAIXA/6TzWx3OyJmgycPk5sopw_786fHjbz3RPwCLcB/s400/Altenew%2BOctober%2BBlog%2BHop%2B720x450.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Hey!<br />
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Happy Friday Eve! Welcome to the Altenew October Release Blog Hop! If you're hopping along with us today, then you should have hopped across here from my fellow talented Altenew teamie, <b><a href="http://craftwalks.com/2016/10/13/altenew-october-2016-release-blog-hop" target="_blank">Svitlana Shayevich</a></b>. If you're not, then there's no better time like the present to join in the fun so be sure to start out at the <b><a href="http://altenewblog.com/?p=12025" target="_blank">Altenew HQ</a></b>. :)<br />
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Today we're celebrating the release of 16 fantastic new stamp sets and there's something for everyone! I couldn't resist inking up the <b><a href="http://altenew.com/products/modern-deer-stamp-set" target="_blank">Modern Deer stamp set </a></b>to get an early start on my Christmas cards <i>(well...early for me anyway!)</i> ;)<br />
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<img alt="AmyGray Warm winter wishes" height="640" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8411/30181635171_9f61daa7a9_z.jpg" width="482" /></div>
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I love that this set contains two stunning deer in a layered stamping format that makes is super-easy to add detail and dimension to these beautiful images. To add a little more texture to the woodland theme I couldn't resist popping the scene on a card blank created from my favourite Altenew <b><a href="http://altenew.com/products/woodgrain-white-10-sheets-set" target="_blank">white woodgrain cardstock</a></b>.<br />
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Now a blog hop wouldn't be a blog hop without prizes, right? Altenew are giving away a $50 gift certificate to THREE lucky winners and I'm giving away a $30 gift certificate to one lucky winner. To be in with a chance of winning the $50 gift certificate, leave a comment on the <b><a href="http://altenewblog.com/?p=12025" target="_blank">Altenew blog</a></b> and to be in with a chance of winning my $30 gift certificate pop a comment on this post. All comments need to be left by <b>Wednesday October 19th at 11.59pm EST</b> and winners will be announced on Thursday October 20th. Good luck!<br />
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Well, that's enough from me today as it's time for you to hop along to the next stop which just so happens to be the lovely <b><a href="http://www.scrapsandstamps.com/?p=6222" target="_blank">Nicole Picadura</a></b> – happy hopping!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aimes_wanford/8325253989/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Signature2 by Amy Wanford, on Flickr"><img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" /></a></div>
Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com270tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-73014359794415800742016-09-24T11:50:00.000+01:002016-09-25T11:51:37.714+01:00Altenew September Release Blog Hop Winner! Hey!<br />
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Happy Saturday! I'm kicking off the weekend by announcing the randomly-selected winner of the $30 Altenew gift certificate from the Altenew September Release Blog Hop! So, without further ado, the lucky winner is:<br />
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<dt class="comment-author " id="c1111448837118049837" style="color: #7f7f7f; font-family: 'josefin sans'; font-size: 16px; margin: 0.5em 0px; text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://izzyscrap.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #84f8c3; text-decoration: none;">Izzy Scrap</a> said...</i></dt>
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<i>Yes, no doubt I love those new colors too ! And you exactly know how to highlight the new products! Thanks so much for sharing.</i></div>
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Congrats,<b><a href="http://izzyscrap.com/" target="_blank"> Izzy Scrap</a></b>! Please email '<b>winner@altenew.com</b>' with the subject line '<b>September Release Blog Hop winner from Amy's blog</b>' to claim your prize! Happy shopping!<br />
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I've been busy playing with even more goodies from the new release over on the <b><a href="http://altenewblog.com/2016/09/24/celebrating-co-ordinating-dies/" target="_blank">Altenew blog</a></b> today. Here's a sneak peek of my project:<br />
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<img alt="Congratulations close up" height="372" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8347/29831351151_6ab74fda3c.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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I hope that you can <b><a href="http://altenewblog.com/2016/09/24/celebrating-co-ordinating-dies/" target="_blank">join me over there</a></b>! :)<br />
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Thanks so much for stopping by today and have a super duper weekend, peeps!<br />
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Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-27393298259057445292016-09-21T00:30:00.000+01:002016-09-21T00:30:27.768+01:00Layered stamping with Simon Says Stamp & Clearly Besotted! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hey!<br />
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Happy Wednesday! It's a special Wednesday as Simon Says Stamp joins forces with Clearly Besotted to celebrate a fabulous <b><a href="https://www.simonsaysstamp.com/category/Shop-Simon-Releases-Stamptember" target="_blank">STAMPtember exclusive</a></b>! Yup, Clearly Besotted have a designed this stunning Layered Chrysanthemum stamp set available exclusively at Simon Says Stamp while stocks last!<br />
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Simon Says Stamp kindly sent me this stamp set to play with and I love it! Here's the result of my latest crafty adventure with it when I had a moment to sit down and simply enjoy the creative process:<br />
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<img alt="Amy Gray CB Thanks a million" height="500" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/9/8128/29059493773_34b3ea661f.jpg" width="474" /></div>
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There's some serious masking going on with those layered chrysanthemums to create the border of them along the top, but think it's worth the effort. I couldn't resist affixing the design onto my favourite cardstock colour of the moment: <b><a href="https://www.simonsaysstamp.com/product?id=296863&currency=USD" target="_blank">Simon Says Stamp's Mint cardstock</a></b>. :)<br />
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<img alt="Amy Gray CB Thanks a million close up" height="334" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/8/7498/29684141815_cc099151a9.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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If you want to get your inky mitts on this exclusive stamp set then you'll have to be quick! <b><a href="https://www.simonsaysstamp.com/category/Shop-Simon-Releases-Stamptember" target="_blank">STAMPtember products</a></b> are proving to be extremely popular so be sure to check out this stamp set along with the many other fabulous STAMPtember exclusives <b><a href="https://www.simonsaysstamp.com/category/Shop-Simon-Releases-Stamptember" target="_blank">here</a></b>!<br />
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Thanks so much for stopping by today! I hope you have a wonderful Wednesday and continue to enjoy the super-duper <b><a href="https://www.simonsaysstamp.com/category/Shop-Simon-Releases-Stamptember" target="_blank">STAMPtember celebrations</a></b>! :D<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aimes_wanford/8325253989/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Signature2 by Amy Wanford, on Flickr"><img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" /></a><br />
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<br />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-91153748263857949452016-09-19T14:00:00.000+01:002016-09-19T19:16:24.190+01:00Altenew September Release blog hop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hey!<br />
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Happy Monday! It's also a happy Monday at Altenew as today marks the start of a fun blog hop to celebrate the release of 15 new dies, 12 new ink colours, 36 re-inkers and two wonderful, sparkly glitter tapes! You should have arrived here from <b><a href="http://craftwalks.com/2016/09/19/altenew-september-release-blog-hop/" target="_blank">Svitlana Shayevich</a></b>, if you haven't then be sure to start out at <b><a href="http://altenewblog.com/?p=11543" target="_blank">Altenew HQ</a></b>! <br />
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For my projects to celebrate the new release, I couldn't resist getting busy with the new Bold Alphabet die set and the new Celebrations die-set to co-ordiante with the Celebrations stamp set. First up, here's my project featuring the Bold Alphabet die set:<br />
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I liked the idea of keeping some of the letters attached together to form a die-cut background from a panel of white cardstock. I blended some yummy new Puffy Heart and Rose Quartz inks over the panel before die-cutting it to achieve an on-trend ombré effect. :)<br />
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<img alt="Amy-Gray-Altenew-bold-alphabet-die-set-signature" height="371" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8277/29602886871_6094884359.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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The woodgrain pattern is stamped using the new Emerald ink. I think this might be my new favourite Altenew colour (just don't tell the others!)<br />
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For my final project, I kept things pretty simple. After stamping and colouring the presents from the Celebrations stamp set, I then used the co-ordinating die to cut it out and mounted it onto a woodgrain card front using 3D foam tape. Easy peasy!<br />
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<img alt="Amy-Gray-Altenew-Celebrations-die-set-signature" height="640" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8368/29393437610_7fce040b6d_z.jpg" width="444" /></div>
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I hope that you're enjoying the blog hop so far! Don't forget that it's worth commenting along the way as Altenew are giving away three $50 gift certificate to one lucky person commenting on the <b><a href="http://altenewblog.com/?p=11543" target="_blank">Altenew blog</a></b> and I'm giving away a $30 gift certificate to a lucky peep who comments on this post! Please leave your comment here by <b>Friday September 23rd 11.59pm EST</b> to be in with a chance – I'll announce a winner on Saturday 24th September.<br />
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Right, it's time for you to keep on hopping! Next on the hop is <b><a href="http://roebuck-adventures.blogspot.co.uk/2016/09/altenew-september-release-blog-hop.html" target="_blank">Patricia Roebuck</a></b> – happy hopping! :D<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aimes_wanford/8325253989/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Signature2 by Amy Wanford, on Flickr"><img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" /></a><br />
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<br />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com140tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-29531850548323853482016-08-10T20:19:00.005+01:002016-08-10T20:19:58.131+01:00Altenew July Release Blog Hop Winner!<br />
Hey!<br />
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Oh I'm a bad blogger....I hope you can forgive me. This post was scheduled to publish, but had other thoughts it seems while I was away spending a last-minute decision to escape to Vegas for the weekend! Still, better late than never, I'm here to announce the randomly selected winner of a $30 Altenew gift certificate from the Altenew July Blog Hop!<br />
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So, without further ado, the winner is: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/profile/06014892790944914624" target="_blank"><b>Rose! </b></a><br />
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Congrats, Rose! Please email <b>winner@altenew.com</b> with the subject line 'July Release Blog Hop Winner from Amy's blog', to claim your gift certificate. Happy shopping!<br />
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Thank you all so much for taking part in the blog hop and for your lovely comments, I hope you enjoyed the hop and managed to treat yourself to some of the release! :)<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/aimes_wanford/8325253989/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Signature2 by Amy Wanford, on Flickr"><img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" /></a>Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-75600863106670728652016-08-03T08:00:00.000+01:002016-08-03T08:00:28.052+01:00Clearly Besotted August release teaser time...<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Good luck" height="434" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8224/28110020104_fa89dfc455.jpg" width="500" /></div>
Hey!<br />
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I'm here today sharing a sneak peek of the new <b><a href="http://www.clearlybesottedstamps.com/" target="_blank">Clearly Besotted</a></b> August release which is available to purchase from 5th August at 10pm BST!<br />
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It's serious cuteness overload with this release – I just had to play with the <b>Be Lucky</b> stamp set. I'm going to confess that it was the unicorn of the set that had me itching to ink it up, but as I was sat at my desk I thought that many of us would be thinking the same thing so I decided to give the cat, dog and rabbit a little time in the spotlight. :)<br />
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This card really is as simple as it looks! I've paired the stamp set with some yummy papers from First Edition's Pick 'n' Mix collection. You may also noticed that I added some subtle stripes to my ginger tomcat. I love that you can customise and colour these cute animals to suit your projects or even represent a family pet<i> (my ginger tom is based on a past pet called Marmalade!)</i><br />
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Don't forget that<b><a href="http://stampingsharing.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank"> Stephanie </a></b>is sharing more sneak peeks at <b><a href="http://stampingsharing.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">CB HQ</a></b> with links to the rest of the Design Team sharing even more teasers from the release. We also have the talented <b><a href="http://thetinybluebutterfly.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Jen Nelson</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.arareruby.com/" target="_blank">Rubeena Naz</a></b> on board with us as guesties too!<br />
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I'm keeping it super-short and sweet today, but I hope to be back tomorrow with another sneak peek for you. :)<br />
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Thank you so much for stopping by today!<br />
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<br />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-90206205656436567982016-07-29T14:00:00.000+01:002016-07-29T14:00:03.890+01:00Altenew July Release Blog Hop<br />
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<b><span style="color: #f1c232;">***I have two posts to share with you today! If you're looking for my Paperbabe Stamps blog hop post, please click <a href="http://craftingconfessions.blogspot.co.uk/2016/07/paperbabe-stamps-3rd-anniversary-blog.html" target="_blank">here</a>. Thanks!***</span></b></div>
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Hey! </div>
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I'm here today sharing the new <b><a href="http://altenew.com/collections/all" target="_blank">Altenew</a></b> July release with a good ol' fashioned blog hop! You should have arrived here from <b><a href="https://evelynpy.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Evelyn Yusuf</a></b>, but if you haven't then be sure to start out at the <b><a href="http://altenewblog.com/" target="_blank">Altenew blog</a></b>. :)<br />
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I really was spoilt for choice with what to play from the new release for this blog hop. So many lovely stamp sets to choose from! My Design Team parcel arrived in the nick of time so I couldn't spend too much time deliberating, but I'm a sucker for leaves so I knew that I'd have to ink up the <b><a href="http://altenew.com/products/freeform-greenery" target="_blank">Freeform Greenery</a></b> stamp set. :)<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Proud of your Strength" height="640" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8472/28581563196_c5188f2cf0_z.jpg" width="446" /></span></div>
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The background was stamped in no time now I've succumbed to the magic of the mini MISTI. I was able to stamp a few images at once and then stamp the smaller ones in between them to fill the spaces. Easy peasy!<br />
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The sentiment is from the new <b><a href="http://altenew.com/products/bamboo-rose" target="_blank">Bamboo Rose stamp set </a></b>which contains many uplifting and encouraging sentiments in a beautiful font. I felt that the brush script nature of the font complemented the hand-drawn look of the Freeform Greenery leaves perfectly. :)<br />
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On closer inspection, you'll see a strip of Washi tape down the right side of this card. That's part of the new July release too! Wonderful Washi tape! Yay! :D<br />
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As always, there are prizes to be won along the blog hop. Altenew are giving away a<b> $50 gift certificate </b>to THREE lucky winners! Simply leave a comment on the<b><a href="http://altenewblog.com/" target="_blank"> Altenew blog</a></b> by <b>Friday August 5th 11:59pm EST</b> and the winners will be announced the following day.<br />
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I'm also offering a <b>$30 Altenew gift certificate </b>on my blog post, so be sure to leave a comment on this post by <b>Friday 5th August 11.59 EST </b>and I'll announce the lucky winner next day.<br />
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Well, it's time to hop along and next on your blog hopping adventure is the fabulous <b><a href="http://justmadefrompaper.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Aga</a></b>!<br />
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Happy hopping and have a wonderful weekend!<br />
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<img alt="Signature2" height="103" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8364/8325253989_01f0441400_o.png" width="202" />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com287tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-64984474342685729212016-07-29T10:00:00.000+01:002016-07-29T11:17:02.293+01:00Paperbabe Stamps 3rd Anniversary Blog Hop! <div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Foxy love" height="639" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/8/7577/28507678642_9128920be3_z.jpg" width="460" /></div>
Hey!<br />
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Hooray for Friday! We could just celebrate the fact that it's Friday, but I'm here to join in the party as <b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PaperbabeStamps" target="_blank">Paperbabe Stamps</a></b> celebrate their 3rd anniversary AND a new release of fantastic goodies available to purchase from Saturday 30th July!<br />
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I'm so honoured that my extremely talented friend and owner of <b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PaperbabeStamps" target="_blank">Paperbabe Stamps</a></b>, Kim Costello, has invited me on board to join in the fun! I'm a HUGE fan of Kim's work and I'm feeling the pressure here to create something worthy of being included in this hop full of talent! Speaking of which, you should have hopped here from another dear friend of mine, <b><a href="https://kerenbaker.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Keren Baker</a></b>! If you haven't then be sure to start out at <b><a href="http://sketchingstamper.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Chris Dark's blog</a></b>. :)<br />
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Kim kindly sent me some new wonderful whimsical woodland stamp sets from the release and if you know me, then it won't surprise you to know that I was inking up this adorable fox immediately! Each animal compromises of a number of separate stamps to build them including Mr Fox here. The sentiment is from the same set and fits perfectly with Mr Fox's posture. :)<br />
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I also added an MDF heart from one of the new substrate kit too. I love <i>(pun not intended, but I'll take it!)</i> the way it complements the literal meaning of the sentiment. I covered it with gold Stickles glitter glue, but you can customise these babies with a variety of different mediums from your stash, or simply leave them naked! ;)<br />
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A blog hop, wouldn't be a blog hop without some prizes, right? <b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/PaperbabeStamps?ref=condensed_trust_header_title_items" target="_blank">Paperbabe Stamps</a></b> are offering two fabulous prizes along this hop:<br />
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<li><span style="color: #f1c232;"><b>The entire July release! </b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #f1c232;"><b>£25 gift certificate to spend in the Paperbabe Stamps store</b></span></li>
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For your chance to win one of these prizes, you need to comment on the blogs along the blog hop by midnight Sunday 31st July (UK time) and two lucky winners will be announced on the <b><a href="http://paperbabestamps.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Paperbabe Stamps blog</a></b> on Monday 1st August.<br />
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Right, time to get hopping! Next on your hopping adventure is <b><a href="http://postcardsfromtheattic.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Katy Leitch</a></b>! If you ever get lost, here's the full list of participants:<br />
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<span id="x_yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1469481927108_11917" style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://postcardsfromtheattic.blogspot.co.uk/" id="x_yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1469481927108_11918" target="_blank">Katy</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://inkpaintbeads.blogspot.co.uk/" id="x_yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1469481927108_11921" target="_blank"><span id="x_yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1469481927108_11922" style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Trish</span></a></div>
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<span id="x_yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1469481927108_11925" style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.kimdellow.co.uk/" id="x_yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1469481927108_11926" target="_blank">Kim</a></span></div>
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<span id="x_yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1469481927108_11929" style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://kath-allthatglitter.blogspot.co.uk/" id="x_yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1469481927108_11930" target="_blank">Kath</a></span></div>
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<span id="x_yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1469481927108_11933" style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.paperbabestamps.blogspot.com/" id="x_yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1469481927108_11934" target="_blank">Paperbabe Stamps</a></span><br />
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Happy hopping and happy anniversary, <b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/PaperbabeStamps?ref=condensed_trust_header_title_items" target="_blank">Paperbabe Stamps</a></b>! Here's to many more! :D<br />
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Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-74311566706303120262016-07-05T07:00:00.000+01:002016-07-05T07:00:19.890+01:00Tickled pink...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Hey!</div>
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It's release day today over at <b><a href="http://www.clearlybesottedstamps.com/" target="_blank">Clearly Besotted</a></b> so all of these sneaky peeks we've been sharing with you over the past few days will be available to purchase from 10pm UK time tonight! :D<br />
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For my final card of this release, I've inked up the <b>Tickle My Fancy</b> stamp set. This fabulous set features both solid and linear feather designs with a variety of sentiments. It's ideal for both focal points and background stamping! I decided to put a bit of a literal spin on the tickled pink sentiment by playing with some pink ink and a sheet of pink bokeh BoBunny paper from the You're Invited collection.<br />
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You'll see that I also couldn't resist some pops of gold in the form of glitter Washi tape, gold foil Washi tape and a cute BoBunny mini clip. :)<br />
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Well my sneak peeks are over and <b><a href="http://stampingsharing.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Stephanie</a></b> will be sharing a full reveal of all the new CB goodies, so be sure to pop over and get your shopping list ready! In addition to the full reveal, there's links to the rest of the Design Team sharing their final sneak peeks, so be prepared for some serious enabling! ;)<br />
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Thanks so much popping by here today, your visits are always appreciated!<br />
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Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-15873224837231561772016-07-04T07:00:00.000+01:002016-07-04T07:00:12.317+01:00A panda pyramid...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Happy Monday and a happy 4th of July to anyone celebrating Independence Day today! Today's card is a little nod towards the special occasion and gives you sneak peek of the new <b>Cheering for You </b>stamp set from<b><a href="http://www.clearlybesottedstamps.com/" target="_blank"> Clearly Besotted</a></b>. All new <b><a href="http://www.clearlybesottedstamps.com/" target="_blank">CB</a></b> goodies are available to purchase from 5th July 10pm BST. :) </div>
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So what do you do when you're faced with a cutie patootie stamp set full of cheerleading pandas? Stamp yourself a cheerleading pyramid of course! I wanted to keep things pretty simple and flat for postage and you can't get much flatter than a one-layer card. ;) </div>
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<li><b><span style="color: #f1c232;">The pyramid was easy to stamp once I'd marked the centre of the card front and stamped the top panda first. It would also work if you started by stamping the bottom-centre panda too, I just preferred to stamp from the top to the bottom. </span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="color: #f1c232;">It helps to test this design first on a piece of scrap paper so you can see how big the final design will be, and then create an approripately sized card blank. </span></b></li>
<li><span style="color: #f1c232;"><b>There's a a bit of space in between the pandas, so I stamped stars in them<i> (from the same stamp set) </i>to fill them and add a fun feel to the pyramid. :) </b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #f1c232;"><b>I added a little shadow the bottom row of pandas using a grey alcohol marker. It just helps to ground them a little bit on the white space. </b></span></li>
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Well that's enough cheerleading for me today, but it's time to wave those pom-poms and celebrate the amazing sneak peeks that <b><a href="http://stampingsharing.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Stephanie</a></b> is sharing today along with links to everyone else teasing you with inspirational ideas. :) </div>
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Happy 4th of July, peeps! I'll see you tomorrow with a final card before you can make your shopping list for the release at 10pm! </div>
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<br />Aimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08445979819457279769noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225672592597497158.post-19925024197235758602016-07-03T07:00:00.000+01:002016-07-03T07:00:05.816+01:00Trouble...in a tutu...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Hey!<br />
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Well it's July and although it might be grey and soggy outside, it's time to inject a little sunshine and happiness with sneak peeks of <b><a href="http://www.clearlybesottedstamps.com/" target="_blank">Clearly Besotted's</a></b> July release!<br />
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It's a well known fact that no-one quite does cute like <b><a href="http://www.clearlybesottedstamps.com/" target="_blank">Clearly Besotted</a></b>, but somehow they've even managed to excel themselves this month with what can only be described cuteness overload. This, combined with their humour, is a recipe for some seriously fun stamping. :)<br />
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Today's card features the hilariously titled, <b>'Trouble in a tutu'</b> stamp set and I just couldn't resist using that sentiment. I know a number of friends who would love this sentiment paired with the images in the set and I'm pretty sure that if I ever found myself in a tutu, I'd certainly be in trouble...LOL! <br />
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I decided to pop my stamped hippo and sentiment onto a tag from BoBunny's You're Invited collection. I also used the mini star cluster stamp from the same stamp set to fill the spaces in between the fun dots on the tag, then used 3D foam tape to mount it onto a card front covered with paper from the same collection. A mini peg and twine bow was added to finish the design. :)<br />
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For this month's sneaky peeks, Clearly Besotted have the amazingly talented <b><a href="https://laurafadora.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Laura Bassen</a></b> and <b><a href="http://myjoyfulmoments-kaym.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Kay Miller</a></b> on board! I just know that they're going to create inspirational and fun projects for the release so be sure to check them out. Pop across to <b><a href="http://stampingsharing.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">S</a><a href="http://stampingsharing.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">tephanie's <i>(CB HQ)</i></a></b><i> </i>to see more from this month's release including links to the rest of the Design Team sharing more sneaky peeks!<br />
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I'll be back tomorrow with another card, so I hope you can join me then! As always, thank you so much for stopping today. :)<br />
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