Gotta Craft Shop Blog

This & That ... part 2

2012-02-22T13:44:00.000Z

Yesterday I showed you the more girly side of Echo Park's This & That, latest collection and today ... here's the more rough & tumble one :)

This collection is called Charming ... and charming me, it sure is. I adore the Rolleifex type camera image in it, as My Dad had one of those Cameras, so it brings back happy memories. Anyway, here it is, oh and again, Echo Park has kindly done matching layered chipboard, chipboard accents and brads, which you can find HERE along with a collection pack, if you want it all ... and who wouldn't :)

First of Many

2012-02-21T19:24:00.000Z

New collections, that is :) ... well, I'm happy to say the boxes are arriving, and well to say I'm impressed, would be an understatement.

So first up ... we have Echo Park's Graceful collection. Its a beautiful collection, that for sure, with lots of florals and damasks - I could really see this being a popular collection. Although more "girl" based, with stickers and chipboard pieces such as "Daughter", "Beautiful" "Girl" & "Cutie Pie" ... don't let it put you off, if girly isn't your thing. You'll also find words such as "You Make me happy when skies are Grey" and "Its the little things that matter most".

The papers too aren't overly girly ... if one side is, then the so called "b" side isn't.

Anyway, here is a little taste of the papers for you. With the This & That collection, I'm glad to say that it also has chipboard and brads to match ... pop on over and see it HERE

White is Just Right

2012-02-20T14:27:00.000Z

I've just taken delivery of a fresh stack of crisp white cardstock.

Doesn't that make you want to sit down and scrapbook? A white background is feeling fresh as we start to head towards lighter nights and a hint of Spring. It's a change for me from the patterned paper backgrounds I love so well. Is white a change for you too?

Sorry Sian, for butting in on your lovely post ... and oohhh love that photo :) ... but just wanted to let you all know, that you can now find Bazzill White and Bazzill Kraft in packs of 10, and for the price of 9 sheets, can't be bad!

Happy Valentine's Day....

2012-02-14T08:00:00.001Z

If you like papers with a touch of romance then the February kit will be right up your street. This month it features patterned papers from Glitz Design's Beautiful Dreamer and Echo Park Upscale. As usual Sandra has added lots of co-ordinating embellies including amongst other things some Glitz Design Whotnots, an alphabet sheet and some pretty lace.

The little letter stickers are from Authentique as are the phrase stickers which are underneath my rosettes.

As we've seen some fantastic layouts recently from you using the monthly kits we'd love to see what you make from the kit this month......

2012-02-12T12:00:00.000Z

I hope everyone is having a good weekend so far, hopefully tucked up in the warm somewhere....

I was cutting out some journalling shapes the other day on my Cameo and when I had removed them all from the card it occurred to me that maybe I could use the bit left behind on a layout. So armed with some pretty papers from the Authentique Gathering range I set about filling the gaps with papers and photos. As I only needed very tiny pictures I printed some small photos using the mosaic function on Picasa.

Some of the photos and papers are adhered directly to the frames and the others I stuck to the base paper to add a different dimension. Behind the whole thing is a lot of foam tape!

I cut my title from kraft card using my cutting machine and added some journalling printed onto small strips of paper. If you don't have a cutting machine you could do something similar with a circle cutter (or a craft knife and a steady hand) which would look good too.

Feb's sneak peek

2012-02-09T16:10:00.000Z

Here it is .... your little peek into this months kit.

It's going on sale Friday 10th around 8pm and as always filled with gorgeous goodies. The papers are actually from two different collections, I thought I'd make it a little different this month. Both are fabulous of course, and I look forward to seeing how you use them.

Also in this months kit, are Jenni Bowlin goodies, in the form of tickets & little pearl flowers, you'll even find a little trinket from MME.

So do check out the shop tomorrow and see it in all it's glory.

And the winner is .....

2012-02-03T11:24:00.000Z

Our first competition has come to a close, and at yesterday evenings crop, I asked Petra, to pick the winner out of a hat ... (well, my camera case actually, as we didn't have a hat :)

And the winner is

Congratulations, Sandi ... you can pick which of the American Crafts Flutterby's you'd like me to send to you.

Emma will be arranging another competition next Friday, can't wait to see what she comes up with. So have a great weekend all, oh and don't forget this sunday coming is Sian's Story Telling Sunday, Enjoy xx

Kit News

2012-02-01T15:10:00.001Z

I know I've been saying it for ages ... but I've finally done it! Yup, opened up the kit subbie places. I'm actually hoping to keep places open all the time - this may mean that sometimes they'll be less kits to buy on the night, so to speak, but I've had a few requests to open more subscription places ... and never it let it be said, I don't listen LOL.

Anyhow, you can find information about them HERE

But, don't think I'm leaving it there ...ooohhhh no, no, no! ... the lovely Denise, has been busy creating with January's kit - and she very kindly sent me in a picture of her layout. Thanks Denise, you're a star xxx

Don't forget to stop by her blog and say hello, she's really lovely

Flutterbys Card

2012-01-30T13:41:00.000Z

I hope everyone had a good weekend, it certainly wasn't the best weather but a good excuse to stay inside and craft!

Following on from my layout that I posted last week I have made a quick card using some more of the Flutterbys from American Crafts. I have used them as a border at the top and bottom of the card, raising them up on foam pads to add dimension. The rest of the card was put together with scraps of patterned paper and some flower punches.

Don't forget to leave a comment on Emma's post from the 20th Jan for a chance to win some, you have until the end of the week...

Krafty Blog Friends

2012-01-27T13:46:00.000Z

It always gives me such a huge buzz, when I'm sitting in the evening and catching up on my google reader ... and up pops up in front of me, a blog that says someone has just bought one of the monthly kits and then showcases what they've done with it :) ... Well, the other day, it happened again. This time it was the lovely Becky - who's blog ... Becky's Scrapbook Burblings came into my reader with this gorgeous layout .

She since then also done another layout which she's sent to me ... and its another gorgeous one. Do stop by her blog and say hello, she is so creative and does such lovely, lovely layouts.

A few of the kits are still available HERE... and I'll be opening up the subscriptions again very soon. Actually, I'm hoping to keep them open all the time ... well, that's the plan anyway LOL.

Have a fun weekend ... and don't forget the competition to win one of the American Crafts Flutterbys - the winner will be picked this Thursday ... maybe I'll try and get someone at the crop to pick out the winner from a hat :)

2012-01-23T20:32:00.000Z

A packet of the Flutterbys from American Crafts came fluttering my way last week and I couldn't wait to add them to a layout of my DD (this is one of my favourite photos of her when she was little). I decided to add some glitter to the edges of each butterfly and then attached each one separately with a glue dot behind so they stayed securely in place. The papers are from Fancy Pants Love Story. I cut the heart envelope on my Craft Robo using a file from the Silhouette store.

The flowers were die-cut from plain white card using a Tim Holtz die and then spritzed with several different glimmer mists, scrunched up and when dry I layered them up and finished with more glitter.

Don't forget the draw for a packet of Flutterbys on the post below, just become a follower of the blog if you're not already and then add your comment with your suggestion of a design you'd like to see.....

COMPETITION TIME

2012-01-20T09:29:00.000Z

Yay - it's Friday and we thought we would have some fun and offer our blog followers the chance to win a fabulous prize. In fact, we like Fridays and we like prizes an awful lot so we will be making this a regular thing.

To be in with a chance of winning, simply take a look at the new designs of American Craft Flutterbys in the Gotta Craft shop and tell us which shape of Flutterby or bunting message you would design if American Crafts called you up right now and asked for an idea to add to their range.

You can be as wacky or creative as you like and we will pick a winner at random in 2 weeks time and announce their name here on the blog.

All that we ask is you follow our blog if you'd like to enter. If you don't follow Gotta Craft already, you can do so simply by clicking on the button to the left. And the prize?

........... well a pack of the gorgeous new AMERICAN CRAFTS FLUTTERBYS of course :)

We look forward to seeing what you come up with.

Take a look and see how those clever people at American Crafts have used them, on these lovely layouts .

Fancy Pants - Winterland

2012-01-18T12:52:00.001Z

Fancy Pants have done it again ... the latest Winterland collection is just beautiful. Full of soft colours and images, its such a joy to use.

This layout was actually a scraplift ... although, I'm sorry I can't give credit, as I was given it at a recent crop to do by Lorna - who I think was fed up of seeing me move paper around, and not do a lot :) And, to be honest, Emma and I did the same layout, and we tried to see who did it faster. Now, she'll say she did ... but don't listen to her LOL.

Putting on the Glitz

2012-01-16T14:05:00.000Z

After using up the moustache stickers on the Echo Park Times & Seasons Elements Stickers I Turned to my second favourite piece. The big car sticker - as soon as I saw it I thought of my favourite film from years ago. Bugsy Malone. I wanted to drive one of those cars and wear one of those dresses, so I've made a page about it:

Most of the papers are from the Glitz Vintage Blue collection . It's definitely worth checking out. I think navy and deep blues are going to continue to be big scrapbooking news in 2012.

Kraft ...ing Mad

2012-01-11T19:20:00.000Z

January's kit is now available, you can find it HERE.

It's full of gorgeous My Minds Eye Kraft Fun Day goodies, and I've put together papers from both Happy Days and Everyday collections, which you can use for any event.

You'll also find twine, a die cut border, an alphabet and ooohhh so much more. Do pop along and check it out.

It really got me in a creative mood, and I did this layout for my 365 project album this year. The story behind it is, that every New Year, Simon and I get all the papers and scan through for our stars for the coming year. It's become such a tradition for us.

Please do share any projects you make with your kits with us ....we'd really love to see them.

What a start

2012-01-10T14:27:00.000Z

January's kit is all ready to go .... and will be on sale Wednesday 11th at usual time around about 7ish ... but of course, we have to have the sneaky peek look at it. So here it is;

Lots of gorgeousness is planned for 2012 .... and I think a regular date for kits to go on sale, is my first thing to sort out, as well as some more subscription places.

But for now ... if you don't already know which paper line is in the kit ... let the guessing begin.

I know a bit late ... but wishing you all an AMAZING 2012. Let the creativity flow.

Boxes of American Crafts

2011-12-20T14:01:00.000Z

Did you hear a squeal yesterday? If so, I'll hold up my hand and say sorry, that was me!

Yesterday I signed for several boxes of the yummiest American Crafts products, which actually, I wasn't expecting until the New Year, so you can understand my squeal now, can't you? Anyhow, as it's you, I wanted to just show you a little glimpse of what's coming.

Also, just to let you know, that last posting before Christmas will be tomorrow. I'll then be taking a little break until the New Year, so although you'll be able to order - I'm sorry, I can't guarantee anything will be posted out until the 9th January.

I'd like to take this chance to say a big thank you for all your support this year - and the kindness you've all shown me, in what's been the hardest year for me. I can't thank you enough xxx

Times & Seasons - Movember

2011-12-16T11:58:00.000Z

We all love to check out the latest Gotta Craft kit; but it's definitely worth keeping an eye out for other new additions to the shop. Sandra has fresh stock arriving all the time.Recently she sent me some of the new Echo Park Times & Seasons - and it didn't take me long to decide how to use my pick of the papers, Spiffy Mustache:

I made a layout about "Movember". And because I couldn't persuade anyone else in the family to sport a tache for my photo - I added one to a picture of our hamster. It's silly, I know. But Movember is a wonderful cause and Gary was happy to lend his support.

Beard and hat both cut with the Slice

I used some pieces from the sticker sheet and some scraps of Glitz Vintage Blue which Sandra suggested as a great match. She's right - they go together perfectly!

Scrap365 - Issue 2 has arrived

2011-12-13T11:11:00.002Z

As soon as the postman delivers the latest pack of Scrap365 magazines, I tear open the wrapping and search for Sian's articles. Well this month, trust me, you're going to LOVE what she's come up with - In true style she's created the most gorgeous layout, showing us how to use up those odds & ends.

I will say, the designers in this magazine are truly talented, they've come up with some amazing articles. So, I think it calls for a few minutes of me time, so armed with a cup of coffee & Scrap365 ... what more can a girl ask for.

I'll be back with a couple of layouts using the kit ... which has now sold out - but single papers are still available.

Sneaky Peek Time

2011-12-08T14:39:00.001Z

Can you believe it ... the last kit of the year ... and what a kit it is.

It will be going on sale Friday 9th December around 8pm. As always, gorgeous, gorgeous papers and matching cardstock. This month you'll also find an alphabet sheet and word sheet ... some gems, flower, buttons & ribbons.

You'll also find some add-ons tomorrow, if you're after the full collection.

Making Memories with Memorandum

2011-12-05T13:10:00.001Z

While we wait for Sandra's lovely Christmas kit, I thought I'd show you my Christmas album inspired by November's kit. I've been using the Lilybee Memorandum to put it togethet:

I didn't manage to squeeze the whole thing from the kit - I ordered an extra 6x6 paper pad which made it very easy to decorate my paper bag album.

Becasue of the bags I have extra pockets for pull out pages, and you can see that I am adding in some of the tags from my last post too.

I'll have more to show you as it progresses and if you are interested in a tutorial for a paper bag album, you can find one here on my own blog (did I tell you I gave it a Facebook page? One of my first "likes"? Gotta Craft, of course!). But what about your Christmas album? Anyone making one this year?

It's Just Scraps - Christmas Tags

2011-11-28T10:22:00.000Z

I held off as long as I could. Really I did. But those Memorandum scraps have been shouting Christmas! at me and I was finding them hard to resist.

I decided to make some gift tags with the help of my Slice.

I layered the different tag shapes up to make them feel a bit more special

and even added a bit of Christmas sparkle. Then I hung them all on my new display board and turned it into this:

Get ready for Christmas as Gotta Craft! The Memorandum kit is now sold out (although you can buy the pieces to make your own right here). But Sandra has a beautiful December kit planned. Watch this space!

Take One Collection...

2011-11-21T23:08:00.015Z

Using only papers from the new Harvest Market collection now available at Gotta Craft, 8 scrappers came up with 8 very different but equally stunning layouts:

Wendy used the blues and neutral tones to match her black and white photograph and create pretty borbers and matting.

Wendy used a whole sheet of one paper as her background and embellished it with brown and blue embellishments to create a wonderful vintage feel.

Sandra created a bold collage of photos against a red and blue background complete with patterned paper bunting. We all agreed 9 photos on one layout is very hard to do but this still has a lovely uncluttered and stylish feel to it.

Michelanne went for a spotty red and white design, using the spotty papers to enhance the photos of her little baby ladybird. How adorable is he?!

Gaye used her papers for matting, for creating flowers and for the buckle embellishments on this bright and bold design.

Debbie used the Cricut to cut one patterned paper into a gorgeous border for this very pretty layout.

Lynne layered up her papers against a yellow background and misted the lighter papers to create the wonderful flower cluster at the top

And my layout (minus photo of me!) had lots of white space and a splash of colour from both sides of the papers used to create matting, frames and embellishments.

We were all surprised when we put the layouts together just how many different styles and colour schemes and themes could be made from one paper collection.

Something Spooky.....

2011-11-15T07:48:00.001Z

So Halloween has been and gone as well as Bonfire Night (where does the time go!) and if you have some pictures to scrap from Halloween then the October kit is perfect. My two dressed up for the occasion so I decided to scrap some of the pictures of them in their costumes.

I had already used most of my papers on the mini book and card that I made so I cut some of my scraps into diamonds and laid them out a bit like patchwork onto my kraft card background. It is hard to tell from the picture but a lot of the papers have glazed designs on them which make the papers feel very luxurious and it gives them an extra dimension. The title was cut out from one of the papers as was the little owl on a branch that I stuck onto the journaling card.

If you already have the kit we'd love to see your Halloween layouts made with it, and if you don't have it already there are still some kits left in the shop.

Have a great week x

Note to Self: Buy More Memorandum

2011-11-12T22:04:00.001Z

So there I was, crouched in the wet grass, with no coat on, taking pictures of pumpkins and thinking "Sandra, these papers better be worth it".

And of course, they are. November's kit has Lily Bee's stunning Memorandum. This collection is beautiful! every last little bit of it. Honestly, I have already been back to the shop and ordered a Tiny Tablet because I am thinking about using it for my Christmas album this year. See how it looks with a Christmassy page?

The patterns are truly lovely; but what makes this collection so special is the ledger paper reverse sides. Each one is a winner - very easy to use as a background or cut into journaling blocks or mini albums. Check them all out in the shop. But don't hang around taking notes for too long - just remember, supplies of the Memorandum kit and its lovely add on won't last forever!

And those pumpkins? Here they are.

We faked it this year. These ones came from a shop. You'll find that pretty blue ribbon in the kit, along with some cute things I have even started on yet. I'll be back with more..

Fancy a peek?

2011-11-11T16:45:00.000Z

November's kit goes on sale tomorrow ... and just to tempt you, here is a naughty little peek at something Sian created from it

Scrap365 has landed

2011-11-08T12:53:00.000Z

The doorbell rang yesterday morning, and I signed for a lovely package marked Gotta Craft, and I kept thinking, "what am I expecting today"? ... So I quickly opened it up, and boy did I smile .... for in my hands I held copies of the amazing brand new magazine that has just been launched ... SCRAP365. Now you're probably thinking, why is she buzzing over this ... well our very own SIAN is on the Design Team - how exciting is that! I quickly scanned through it to find her projects, and trust me ...Sian and the other design team memebers sure don't disappoint. Sian has also done an article entitled "Rip it Up and Start Again?" which I just know you'll enjoy.

Its a magazine packed full of amazing projects, from scrapbooking layouts, art journals (I know I'm going to try the "My Stuff It book") to a really lovely door wreath with paper flowers attached. You'll even find a couple of really nice cut out and keep sketches. Its really well thought out, and I know I'm a complete magazine junkie, but trust me, you'll really enjoy this one.

I've also started stocking The Craft Stamper! and the fact that this comes complete with a stamp, makes it a real win win magazine.

Using up those scraps....

2011-11-03T17:09:00.000Z

I'm sure most people reading this are probably the same as me when it comes to throwing away those little scraps of pretty papers - I just have to keep them! Occasionally I feel the need to try and use them and for these scraps I had left over from Authentique's Blissful 6x6 papers I decided to make a patchwork effect background for my card. I cut a circle from scrap paper, covered it in glue and then stuck my scraps on randomly (making sure they were all cut with right-angled corners so they lined up) When I had covered the entire circle I turned it over and trimmed back the overhanging edges, and then added some faux zig-zag stitching with a black fine line pen.

I made some flowers to embellish the card using plain card spritzed with glimmer mists layered with more of the paper scraps.

Thanks for stopping by.

Looks what's new

2011-11-02T14:45:00.000Z

Here is a little sneaky peek at the box that's just arrived ...... check out the site soon, for all this gorgeousness from My Minds Eye.

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T17:27:00.000Z

No tricks here, just lots of yummy treats. Make sure you're ready to scrap those fun pictures you get this evening with our selection of Halloween goodies.

It's Just Scraps (But it's Spooky)

2011-10-27T14:35:00.000+01:00

Okay, I think I'd better hold my hand up from the start and say that this was one of those projects that seemed like a good idea at the time. You know the kind?

It started out as a pile of black cardstock and some blue and grey Authentique papers. They said Halloween to me. Something sophisticated - my two are too big to dress up now, but I thought a few more grown up decorations round the house might be nice. I had spotted a paper chandelier in a magazine and wondered if I could make it work. I did. Just about. Eventually.

Two trips into town, a plea on UKS and a lot of hunting and I had a Halloween punch and two shapes to glue my shapes onto:

I also used my Slice to cut some pumpkins and stars, and lengths of black ribbon to tie it together. If I made one again, I would wrap the shapes in black fabric first and glue onto that to save the base from showing through. But you live and learn! So, wrap two hoops in fabric strips or black wool, and glue punched shapes all over them. I sewed more witches into banners for a drapey effect (they worked well and would make great decorations on their own) and tied the two hoops together with the ribbon. You could also add buttons, streamers , anything to give a really loaded on effect

It did take a few evenings of punching and glueing, but it's a great way of putting scraps to good use. And if Halloween isn't your thing - what about a Christmas version? Or flowers or butterflies for Spring? Just thinking ahead..

Thank You

2011-10-25T15:14:00.000+01:00

I'd like to say a big thank you for all your kind messages recently over the loss of my Dad. I'm still feeling very lost, but I'm getting there.

The shop is now back open - and lots of new products will be uploaded over the coming days.

Don't forget to check out the October kit too .... and Clare's amazing creations with it.

October Kit - Pink Paislee Phantom

2011-10-11T19:10:00.000+01:00

This month's kit is filled with lots of lovely Pink Paislee Phantom - perfect to get your Halloween photos scrapped or maybe make a mini album? I love the glittery orange alphabet that comes with the kit and there are lots of letters on there to keep you going!

This is my mini album, I based the design on one I saw here and as you can see there are lots of pages to decorate, here are just a few of them here -

I tied the whole album up and secured it with the ribbon that comes in the kit, I used some black Distress Ink to make it darker.

You will find that the papers are quite versatile and they also work fantastically with your non-Halloween layouts and cards too. Most of the papers have some glazing on them, making them feel very luxurious!

To see another card and a layout created with the kit you can check out the Gottacraft Facebook page here.

Brand New to Gotta Craft

2011-10-07T12:42:00.000+01:00

A brand new supplier to Gotta Craft is Lawn Fawn .... and believe me, you're going to love these stamps.

I've already know which are my favourites and I think you'll soon get hooked too. I can't wait to make some cards with these and ProMarkers

They have a super blog too, which you can find HERE

Gorgeous New Stock

2011-10-06T14:50:00.000+01:00

It's been coming in, thick and fast these days - and it's not over yet. More still to come.

But for now, I've uploaded the gorgeous .... gorgeous .... Lily Bee Papers. I can honestly say without a doubt I love each and everyone of them. The hardest bit, for me, will be which side to use.

Here's Harvest Market

And Memorandum (which little hint ... will be appearing in a kit soon)

Do go and check out the amazing Alphabet stickers ... these are my all time Favs (at the moment lol) and also the sticker sheets and journaling cards - you can find them all HERE. Yup, Lily Bee Designs .... you've excelled again.

Vintage Vogue

2011-10-04T16:24:00.000+01:00

I must be one of the lucky ones, that's for sure. I attend a crop with such talented, talented people - and two of those people created beautiful layouts with the new Vintage Vogue collection, from Pink Paislee.

First today, I'll show you one by the lovely Ali - you'll just love her blog, An Altered Life, do pop over and say hello.

I'm sorry to show you the close up on the buttons, if you were unlucky to get hold of them, but they're now sold out.

The materials used were;

Pink Paislee vintage vogue patterned paper, chipboard and wooden spool buttons (sorry, now sold out), Martha Stewart and EK Success punches, Distress Ink - Tim Holtz for Ranger, Cardstock - Bazzill Basics, Flower - Prima, Alphabet cut on Cricut.

Crate is Great!

2011-09-22T19:30:00.001+01:00

The lastest monthly kit from the shop featured papers the Farmhouse paper range from Crate Paper. The kit has now sold out but Sandra has the papers available singly as well as a cute 6x6 pad. I've made a couple of projects using the 6x6 papers, which are mini versions of the bigger papers.

On my layout I used some of the papers as a mat for my photo and some smaller squares and a punched strip raised up on scrap card to frame the edges.

I made the flowers by folding up strips of paper concertina style and then finished them off with a button. I used pinking shears on the outer edge first to give a frilly edge.

To embellish my card I made some flowers using a Tim Holtz dies, they were cut from cream card and then sprayed with glimmer mists before finishing them off with an adhesive pearl. The Happy Birthday stamp is one I've had for ages, I stamped it using Distress Ink in Fired Brick which was the perfect match for the red and orange tones of the papers and the flowers.

Very Victorian.....

2011-09-19T09:00:00.032+01:00

Echo Park have brought out another lovely range of papers called Victorian Gardens. The papers are fresh, bright and summery - perfect for those summer photos....

With a background of kraft Bazzill (something I can't live without!) I have used lots of different papers on my layout and used punches and die-cutting on them along with a Tim Holtz die for my layered flowers. There is also a sticker sheet and journalling tag sheet available for the finishing touches.

I used the same die but in a different way for the flowers on my card, I cut them from plain cream card and then coloured them with glimmer mists, scrunched them up and then layered them up when they were dry and finishing off with a pearl. The bird and cage are another Tim Holtz die, again coloured with glimmer mists.

You can check out the Gottacraft Facebook page for more ideas and inspiration with this range here.

Thanks for stopping by, Clare x

Pink Paislee is in the house

2011-09-17T19:12:00.002+01:00

Pink Paislee have done it again ...... their Vintage Vogue collection is fabulous, and ready to go. Oooohhh loving, loving, loving it.

Do also check out the fabulous range of embellishments that go with it ... I think my fav has to be the chipboard pop - I can see them working on both layouts and on cards.

A Paper Bag Album

2011-09-15T09:45:00.000+01:00

When Sandra sent me some of the Lost And Found Sunshine papers I laid them out, looked at them carfeully and wondered if I could come up with something special to show them off. A layout or two just wasn't going to cut it. So I decided on a mini album:

The front cover

The back cover

Have you ever made a paper bag album? I have a big stack of brown paper lunch bags my brother brought me home from America, so I thought it was about time I had a go. It's so easy! I just folded up the gussets and glued them together. That gave me an album about 6x7 inches, so I trimmed off an inch. Why? So I could tell you how perfect this size would be for using up a 6x6 paper pad!

After that it was quick work choosing and trimming papers to size and embellishing with all the lovely Lost And Found bits and pieces.

You can see that I chose the heavily embellished sections of paper for my covers, lining them up so they looked like a book jacket. It's a good way to showcase the "best bits". And this is the perfect way to use all the pieces from a collection you love.

I was quite happy working away on this one without even an idea of what I could use it for. As I moved the bits around, though, I could see that it had feminine and masculine elements. The sewing machine reminded me of my grandma; and the grey stripes of my Grandpa and his grey cardigans. So it will become an album about the two of them and I hope you like it.

Loving the Farmhouse

2011-09-14T15:59:00.000+01:00

Well the guessing is over .... yup, September's kit is full of Crate Paper's Farmhouse. Now I'm probably more of a Autumn/Winter girl anyway (I loovvee the whole warm clothes and boots thing lol) so, this collection is right up my street, with it's lovely warm tones and colours.

Anyway, not to long ago, Simon and I celebrated our 23 wedding anniversary! ...shocking to me, as it still seems, as if I'm only 23 years old myself :) Still, it was a rare day that the sun was out - so while we were sitting in the garden - I did the ususal, you know .... hold the camera out in front and take a picture; and this was the result.

I used the September kit to create the layout... but the papers can be found here ... and also the alphabet sticker sheet to match the papers, can be found here. I'm really loving this alphabet sheet, as not only do you get two different letter types, but also some words and tags. Please don't forget to link here if you create anything with the kit ... we'd really love to see it.

Sneaky Peek Time

2011-09-12T18:47:00.000+01:00

Here it is, the sneaky peek at September's kit.

As always, it's filled with the latest gorgeous papers, and this month you'll also find some lovely die cut shapes to match the collection, a journaling card from Elle's Studio, a sheet of alphabet stickers ... as well as other goodies, which I just know you're gonna love.

The kit will be on sale Tuesday 13th September at around 7pm. You'll also find this month some add-on sheets to make up the full collection.

A little more Authentique

2011-09-09T10:38:00.001+01:00

I hope everyone is looking forward to the weekend, maybe even with some scrapping time planned? (I know that's my plan!)

Following on from Sian's pretty layout I have also been busy with some of the new Authentique papers from the Blissful pad and this is what I've come up with.

By coincidence I have also made a background grid of the papers on my layout like Sian, there are plenty of different patterns in the pad to mix and match. I die-cut some flowers from plain card, scrunched them up a bit and then distressed them with Tim Holtz inks (I used Scattered Straw and Tea Die on mine) I then layered them up and added buttons to the centres. I also die-cut the little bird and cage from some of the papers and finished off with a mist of some glimmer mists that toned with the papers.

My other project is a card, made using the Uncommon pad. This card is definitely quite girly - but I do love a bit of pink!

It was a quick card to put together, I cut one of the papers into 3 for my background and then die cut some scallop circles and punched some flowers that I then layered up and glittered before adding Prima pearls to the centres. I finished it by adding a ribbon and a stampted sentiment.

Have a great weekend x

Six Squared

2011-08-27T19:35:00.000+01:00

I've been playing around with some of the Authentique 6x6 papers and I think I like them! Actually, I know I like them. I'm always saving up my full sheets of patterned paper because I love to use them as backgrounds - with a 6x6 bundle I can happily cut away without having to worry about spoiling a 12x12 piece. I'm converted.

I made this page with some of the pink patterns from the Uncommon bundle simply by choosing a few favourite patterns and cutting each sheet into quarters. That gave me squares of 3x3 which I arranged loosely into a grid, roughing up the edges a bit for added texture. That crepe paper flower is from Girls Paperie and if you like it, grab a packet while you still can; they aren't being made any more. The wooden butterfly and the alphabet are from my stash.

So, 6x6: have you tried them? I'm going to make some cards next.

Still Blissful

2011-08-14T09:48:00.000+01:00

I'm still feeling the bliss from August's kit, how about you?

This page was inspired by the chipboard banners in the kit. I covered them with patterned paper and then added in a few more cut with my Slice. The buttons came from my stash and the little flashes of pink paper are from one of the new stock Authentique 6x6 paper pads. I added some punched butterflies for dimension and a few paint splatters to make my dark background a bit more lively. And at the end I squeezed in my journaling right round the sides.

Now I'm off to see what else I can make with those pink 6x6 squares. .

What have you done with your August kit? Leave us a link!

Blissful - August's Kit

2011-08-09T19:44:00.001+01:00

You've caught me in a reflective mood today. It's all because of Authentique's beautiful yellow and grey Blissful Collection. As soon as it arrived here I looked out a photo of me in a favourite grey shirt and I made this:

These papers are so heavy and luxurious they were easy to distress, so I roughed them up a bit. I thought the raggedy edges would reflect the them of my layout which is really about how much my family means to me right this minute. And how I know they are growing up and will want to move out into the world; so my thinking is a bit rough around the edges too! The little fold up journaling card was perfect for my private notes and I added a little brad from my stash to hold it shut.

Here's a bit of detail so that you can see the little flashes of pink on some of the paper.

The colours really are lovely, aren't they? I don't think this kit will hang around for long - so don't delay, buy one today!

August Kit Peek

2011-08-08T20:13:00.000+01:00

Here it is, a little sneaky peek at August's kit ... it will be going on sale tomorrow, Tuesday 9th at around 7pm.

Now I can let you into a secret ... Sian, has done the most amazing layout ... ok, ok, not such a secret, I know :) But believe me, she sure has worked her magic again.

New In

2011-08-03T13:38:00.000+01:00

A brand new company has just arrived, and that company is called Authentique .. its founders are from the likes of My Minds Eye, Girls Paperie and Doodlebug ... so you just know it's going to be gorgeous.

We're starting off over in the shop with their 6 x 6 pads, but I'll let you into a secret ... one of their ranges is this months kit.

And after seeing the amazing quality, you'll soon be seeing more of thier ranges in stock soon.

Do check out their blog for inspiration.

I love this time of the year, just after CHA when all the new goodies are being delivered ... I'll keep you updated with what's arriving here, it's going to be so exciting, we've lots planned for you.

Facebook Challenge

2011-07-31T14:44:00.000+01:00

I set a little challenge over on Facebook the other day, in honour of my 23rd Wedding Anniversary - but I think I'll extend it to something a little more, and also have it continue it through the month of August.

So the challenge will be to scrap a layout or project, along the lines of "Then & Now" - so it could be something like you on your wedding day and how you are now? or maybe you had long hair and have since cut it all - even baby photos :) It's up to you. But do share your links on here and over on facebook. I will be giving a little prize at the end of the month - I'm hoping a couple of you will join in, so I can then give random generator a little play to find a winner LOL. Anyway, the prize will be something from all the lovely brand new goodies that will be coming to the store soon :)

I've still to figure of how to leave a badge etc on here for finding Gotta Craft on Facebook - but give me time, I'll get there.

Anyway, I'll leave you with a layout using July's kit with Cosmo Crickets, Odds & Ends -oh yes, its hubby and I on are wedding day LOL.

Facebook ... here we come

2011-07-28T17:41:00.000+01:00

Having spent a great deal of yesterday afternoon and this morning - I think we're getting somewhere! ... and that somewhere is Facebook.

It's early days, but the plan (I hope) will be to have a couple of challenges and giveaways. I'll also keep it updated with news on what's coming to the store. So if you have an account, do come over and say hello, search for Gotta Craft and "like" me lol.

I've also spent this afternoon playing with Twitter .... there really is no stopping me. And again, if you have a Twitter account you can find me over there .. only this time, it's one word Gottacraft

Seems strange to have a blog post with no photo ... so just for you :) ... here is a picture of the box of goodies that I'm uploading over the next few days - not all brand new products, but some odds and ends that were in old kits etc ... and also I'm going to be doing a little bit of re-arranging of the categories, hopefully you'll find things quicker - I'd love your comments :)

It's Just Scraps: Patchworked Papers

2011-07-24T07:12:00.001+01:00

So I came home from holiday and I looked at the lovely bits left over from this month's kit and I thought I just had to do another page.

I gathered up the scraps and decided to make a patchwork effect to emphasize the country feel of my photo, with crumpled up edges and some machine stitching. Here it is:

While it was coming together, this is what I thought:

- the distressed edges disguise the wonky edges from the left over scraps

- this kit mixes well with Crate Paper's Emma's Shoppe. That's where my buttons came from

- to add to the scraps I placed some pages from an old dictionary. Any kind of ephemera can bulk out a page if you are running low on the patterned paper you want to use

- I cut my title from the very middle of the cardstock before sticking the rest down

But most of all I thought - doesn't Sandra put together a pretty kit! This one might be my new favourite.

Customer Creations

2011-07-22T14:55:00.000+01:00

I've been getting myself back into the world of blogging this week, and slowly catching up with all the creative and talented people out there. So a happy smile came over me, when I clicked into read some posts and came across you talented lot, and what you've been doing with this month's kit.

First up with have the lovely Michelle with her blog ... Scraps of Me, do visit her, the woman never stops crafting :)

Next is Jo, and her blog Buckingham's Palace... I've showcased many a layout from Jo before - she always manages to find the perfect photo to go with the kits at the crops :) and she's used all the goodies from July's kit in her entry for UKS's House challenge this month.

And lastly (for now) is Suzy, over at Sea, Glass & Sand - who although hasn't shown what she's created yet with July's kit, has done a lovely layout with the Lilly Bee one :)

I'm leaving you with a layout sent from Michelle using last months kit. Thanks guys :)

Although July's kit with its gorgeous Odds & Ends papers has sold out, you can still buy some of them as individuals, HERE.

Right, Sian will be along in a day or so with more of her amazing work :) and I'll be sharing soon with you some of the new goodies that are coming to Gotta Craft.

If you have any projects on your blog you'd like to share - please drop me an email and I'll happily do that in future posts.

Have a fun weekend ... and here's to us all seeing the sunshine.

Cards and Tags

2011-07-18T10:19:00.000+01:00

July's kit is so full of beautiful double sided papers that I decided the best way to show off both sides was to use little bits in a few smaller projects. So I made a set of tags:

Ribbons from my stash, but the twine is from the kit

and this card:

and then this one:

Brown button, leaves and twine all from the kit

And I still have plenty left over for more..

Odds & Ends - July's Kit

2011-07-16T17:08:00.000+01:00

Have you ever not wanted to go on holiday? No, neither had I. Until Sandra sent me the July kit and I realised I wasn't going to be able to fit in all the things I wanted to make! It's Cosmo Cricket's Odds & Ends, and it's absolutely beautiful.

It's a kit for cutting into right away, so that's what I did:

with this page about some retro kitchen accessories from a recent shopping trip. The little paper dolls are cut from one of the sheets of paper. I cut the big doiley shape and the red numbers with my Slice and the lovely cream alphas come with the kit. My favourite piece? I think it's that blue dotted paper, but that could change, I'm not finished yet. In the shop here

I'm just butting into Sian's lovely post, to say that July's kit will be going on sale on Saturday 16th. And to say a HUGE thank you for everyone's kind words, and cards - it's really meant a great deal to me and my family.

Out With the Old

2011-06-28T08:55:00.001+01:00

When I get new papers I'm happy to dive straight in with the scissors and start chopping away but after that initial enthusiasm I will ususally put the rest of the papers neatly away and move on to the next exciting arrival! So every now and then I make a point of digging out papers I've had for a while and make something. So this weekend with that in mind I dug out the lovely Glitz Design Hoopla papers that came in a kit back in November (the papers are still available singly if here you missed out on the kit).

I added letters, ribbon, gems and buttons from my own stash, and used smaller bits of paper to make the flowers and the paper ruffle under my circle (thanks to Sian for the inspiration/method for making these!)

So for those of you who have half-used kits lurking in the back of the cupboard, how about digging them out and getting them used up? As a bonus I think you can definitely justify buying more new stuff if you've used up the old!!

Ok ... sorry to butt into your post Clare ... but as I adore this gorgeous layout, and if you guys want to play along - Glitz Hoopla goodies are now our weekly special and until Sunday 3rd July - you'll find them with a yummy 50% off :)

Take One Slice..

2011-06-23T13:55:00.000+01:00

I have a quick page to show you today, one I made with my new MM Slice and my favourite sheet of paper from April's kit:

Oh, and Pinterest? I love it, how about you?

A couple of kit cards

2011-06-09T18:03:00.000+01:00

I know I say each month, but truly I ADORE June's kit. The papers from MME, Lime Twist are just perfect for all occasions.

This month, I thought I'd have a go with the kit, so came up with a couple of cards, that I'd like to share with you. The first was done, using the add-on kit - which at £5, gives you papers, cardstock and fun embellishments, including the chipboard cupcake and little charm. It's perfect to just grab for a evening session of crafting or to take to a crop and have a play.

The second card is using some scraps that I had left from playing around with a layout. The bunting stamp should be back in stock soon.

The "Happy Birthday is stamped with these mini alphabet stamps, from Hampton Arts and then punched with this mini circle punch.

Sneaky Peek Time

2011-06-06T21:18:00.000+01:00

I know, it doesn't seem that long ago that I was sharing with you the last sneaky peek, does it?

Mind you .... you wait till you see the June one, it's GORGEOUS!!!!! Here you are, here's a little sneaky peek at it.

It's due to go on sale, on Thursday 9th June at an earlier time of around 5 (ish)

Please bear with me, we have a family illness, so times and dates may well change - but I'll try my best to keep you updated.

(More) Girls Paperie..

2011-06-03T14:05:00.000+01:00

...because we love it. I've been making cards with mine:

To make the background for this one I layered Girls Paperie stickers onto a piece of card, trimmed the edges and stuck it onto my card

These star embellishments are so pretty they almost make a card on their own. I blanket stitched round the edge and added a rub on from my stash.

Sian speaks ... I listen

2011-05-30T11:58:00.000+01:00

Do you remember Sian's Rosette tutorial way back in March ... I know, March! Where on earth did time go?
Anyway, I've been really looking forward to giving them a go - and using papers from May's kit, Lily Bee, This & That, I dived straight in. Well Sian, thank you - they were so much fun to make, trust me, they'll be appearing on more layouts in future.

The picture was actually taken on Easter Sunday, when we took a trip up into London to see the flags - I couldn't believe my luck, a mini, a black cab and a bus, all in a line ... how lucky was I. Ok, I did have to stand in the middle of Regent Street to take it, but then us scrapbookers suffer for our art LOL.

Please leave links to your creations using either Sian's rosette's or how you used the May Kit.

Your May Cheat Sheet

2011-05-28T11:42:00.000+01:00

How's it going with that May kit?

It's so windy here today that any ideas I had for layouts about the lovely weather at the beginning of the month have all disappeared. Instead I think I'll be doing a "Cast Ne'er a Clout til May be Out" page!

I'm also thinking about:

National Scrapbooking Day. Did you play along with any challenges anywhere? Or go to a crop? I think I'll have to simply scrap my intentions for this one! That lovely black patterned paper would make photos of any layouts you did really pop.
The first thing I thought of when I saw that black crystal swirl was "black tie" - any May Balls or Leavers Proms round your way? I nearly used it for a page about an antique black jet evening bag.
Of course, if the bad weather keeps up, I'll be huddling indoors " Ah! There's nothing like staying home for real comfort!" said Jane Austen and this month's kit would certainly suit a Jane page.
Across the Atlantic it's "National Get Caught Reading Month" - I wish that would catch on here. But I'm going to make a page about books anyway.
If it picks up, I'll be out practising a few closeup photos of the garden - the flowers in the kit have inspired me to make some more from patterned paper and I'll be adding those to a page with a seed packet I've saved.
Bunting! May is definitely a month for bunting. my method right now is to use a small circular punch, fold the circles in half and hook them over some twine.

That's it for May. Maybe you have some ideas for June? Let me know and I'll add them to the list!

Girls Paperie

2011-05-26T08:30:00.003+01:00

Girls Paperie have brought out some lovely ranges of papers and embellishments recently which you can find in the shop here. The ranges have a pretty vintage feel to them and they mix and match really well.

I've been busy with some of the papers, die-cut embellishments and stickers and came up with this layout.

I really like using kraft Bazzill as a background as it provides a neutral backdrop to patterned papers, and on this layout I also punched some strips from it to add to my page. I inked the edges of my papers with Distress ink to add definition.

The flowers were made using some of the die-cut shapes from the Crafting Kit along with some other flowers cut from pages of an old book. I used the die-cuts as a template, inked the edges, scrunched them up and then layered them up before finishing off with a button from the kit and an adhesive pearl.

If you get hold of some (or all!) of the ranges on offer we would love to see what you have created with them.

Thanks for stopping by, Clare x

ProMarker Storage Idea

2011-05-19T14:37:00.000+01:00

I think I probably enjoy the sorting of craft products, almost as much as crafting it self and I'm always on the look out for new storage ideas. I’ll happily lose myself in re-organizing my papers and embellishments and always think …yup, that’s much better, and then only to do it again, in a few months time.

Well my storage of ProMarkers had me stumped for a while – I’d first put them in little A5 boxes of each colour, but that was a bit of a faff to carry around – and what I really was looking for, was a way I could just pick up my pens and either take them away for the weekend with me, or just carry them downstairs, and colour to my hearts content, while watching tv.

So a big thank you, goes to Petra who while attending the Thursday crop, bought along her idea … and oh I so copied it. She was very lucky in finding her bag at a charity shop. Now, I love looking through charity shops, but I’m not the most patient person, so waiting to find this bag, really wasn’t going to happen. But I did go to the local garden centre and found the same thing (ok, a little more expensive than I would have at the charity store but its such a pretty colour), and hey, beggars can’t be choosers.

I picked up a set of “dot labels” from Rymans and set about putting my ProMarkers in their place, and colouring the dots with each colour, and sticking on top. I also, downloaded a colour chart sheet from LetraSet, and filled in which colours I have, so I know which I need to add to my collection. I’ve put a copy of the sheet for you on the site, under Articles, should you wish to do the same.

All I need to do now, is stamp up a lot of images, and let the playing begin.

I’ve just had a re-stock of ProMarkers, so you’ll find them HERE … and don’t forget, ProMarkers are with free P&P, so you can always add the odd one to your collection, to build up.

Please do share with us any storage ideas by leaving a link to yours and I'm hoping to build on this by giving you all the storage ideas I've found work (and maybe some that don't ... to save you the pain too LOL)

Twine Pompoms

2011-05-16T14:54:00.000+01:00

String's the thing at Gotta Craft today. The new MME twine is just as gorgeous as it looks in the pictures! I have been playing around with yellow - but I gotta get some more. Soon.

I've been making tiny pompoms because I love to add a bit of texture to my pages. I thought about how I was going to do this, and then I realised that I had a tiny bowmaker from my dollshouse days. It worked perfectly. Here's how:

Bowmaker, twine and a length of embroidery thread. A bowmaker is easy to make with two nails in a block of wood or maybe a big fork might do?

Wrap the twine round the prongs of the bowmaker about eight times

Thread a needle with embroidery thread and pass it underneath the twine, then tie a tight, secure knot. I used green here so that you could see it. A toning colour would be better.

Slip the twine off the prongs and trim and fluff up your pompom

I turned mine into a sunflower and added it to one of the journaling cards from April's kit to make a quick tag.

This and That: May's Kit

2011-05-09T20:42:00.000+01:00

At last! Today I get to show you the the layouts I made with the beautiful May kit. I was delighted when Sandra said she was ordering some Lilybee for the shop. Isn't it lovely? Have you seen the matching stamps? and the plain colours? Gotta love those.

My first layout uses photos from a trip to an old fashioned haberdashery shop:

I pleated the paper for the outside and sewed it on with my sewing machine. And I have one big tip for doing this - think seriously about stitching a line first and then faking it by hot glue gunning the pleats on the back. That's what I'm going to do next time! I also used the glue gun to make my paper rose (and I have a tip for that too - make sure all the stray strands of glue have been removed before you try to take photos..)

My second page tells the story of a little pie funnel which used to belong to my Grandma. The felt embellishment is one I made a while back and have never used. It just seemed to fit. I kept the rest simple so that there was one obvious focal point.

And finally, my favourite this month, about a half finished sampler. I worked some cross stitch from the sampler chart straight onto the blue paper. Still loving rosettes too, as you can see.

So, now you've seen mine - what are you going to do with yours? I'd love to know.

Who doesn't love Twine?

2011-05-08T17:46:00.001+01:00

Happiness is colourful twines .... so I couldn't be happier at the moment, just look what I've just uploaded, and in all 12 colours, find them HERE

aaawwwww ... bliss.

Sneaky Peek time

2011-05-05T22:04:00.000+01:00

I always love seeing Sian's take on the sneaky peek and I have to say, this time she's really excelled herself. Now, I know what the kit is ... and those of you that like to know what papers are coming up in kits, know to check the site for hints, but even with all this ... well, see for yourself, she'll keep you guessing.

I will say that you'll be blown away by the layouts Sian has created, they're stunning.

May's kit goes on sale on, Monday 9th at a slightly earlier time of 5pm.

Your April Cheat Sheet

2011-04-28T09:25:00.000+01:00

How's that April kit coming, then? Have you broken into it? Finished it? Or are you still admiring it?

I've got a new feature for you today. I'm calling it a "cheat sheet" and I hope it will give you a few ideas for scrapping the month away. .

So, April: what have we got?

April Fool's Day - Did anyone catch you out? Did you fool the family? What is the best April Fool you have ever come across? If you need a title, how about : "It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.." That's from Nineteen Eighty Four .
Mother's Day - Did you snap a picture of your gifts, given or received? Did you have a secret wish for a certain something? What was your first Mother's Day like? I haven't scrapped mine yet and I know I should. Or what about when you were little, what did you do for your Mum? Have expectations changed?

April is the month when we start to see more light during the day - brilliant for getting outside and taking more photos. "Always take time to stop and smell the flowers." Do a photo walk, record the garden now and at the end of the month again. Or think about the weather - how many times have you needed an umbrella? Are those April showers around? Do the Easter school holidays remind you of being stuck indoors making things? Last year I wrote a blog post called "Bringing The Boredom Back" and I think I might scrap that!
Easter, of course; but what about photos of any new Spring things you have bought for the house? Any Spring cleaning projects? If you need a title for that one, how about: "Where there is a woman, there is magic". Any new outfits? I might do a page about shivering in my new Easter clothes - who used to do that too?
It's National Kite Month in April in the U.S. - that sounds more like a March subject to me here; but it's worth having a look at those Toybox papers for that one
Or what about National Teach Children To Save Day? How about a layout on your first moneybox, or on what you are saving up for right now..
And finally, if you are looking for creative ideas for those lovely journaling cuts, check out the Crate Paper Blog for their Card Menu

If you have any other plans, do share them here. And I'll start thinking about next month.

If you aren't in a layout making mood, this kit is perfect for Spring cards and tags (felt flowers and rub on from my stash)

It's Just Scraps: Pleated Flowers

2011-04-23T08:59:00.000+01:00

I'm seeing patterned paper flowers blooming all over the place at the minute. They are turning into a trend! I have a quick one to show you today. It's a good one to start with and an easy way to use up scraps from your kit.

Start by punching a circle from a scrap of cardstock. Cut two 12 inch long strips from coordinating papers and trim along one edge with scalloped scissors or a border punch

Pierce a hole in the centre of your circle - this is easier to see than a pencil mark AND you can use it to push a brad through at the end. Begin pleating your paper strip around your centre point, flattening and moulding with your fingers

Add a second layer of pleats and trim any excess, neatening edges at the same time

Add a brad, button or small punched circle to the centre. I tied narrow ribbon through the button in mine to give it a bit of movement. Now it's ready for your page - use it to draw attention to a title or photo.

Rainy Day Scrapping

2011-04-16T22:45:00.001+01:00

Sometimes I get an email from Sandra and it says "I've been thinking.." and then I know there's going to be some thinking in there for me too..

We all love a new kit every month. Fresh supplies, the latest papers, right for the time of year. But where does that leave all the other paper? The stuff that was right for Christmas or Valentines Day or last Halloween? If you had got round to using it. I've come up with a different way of looking at the paper you already have:

"When she's sick she says I love it when I stay home and we eat popcorn. It feels like breaking the rules"

1. DO NOT look at your photographs. Don't go anywhere near them. Look only at your papers. Choose a selection based only on colour, not on what you bought them for or what pictures you think they go with. I have used some from Cosmo Cricket DeLovely, a summery collection.

2. Take two sheets of white cardstock. Punch border strips from one and arrange on the other to make a textured background.

3. Create a patchwork from your patterned papers. Just choose what you like; and, remember, no looking at your photos.

4. Cut one piece to be a photo mat - mine is sized for any of my 4x6 photos - and stick it down. Now, pick out some matching embellishments.

5. NOW - look at your photos and I bet you will find something to fit on your layout. I took this picture ages ago, but the colours are a bit of a mixture and I'd never found a way of using it until now. This way of scrapping throws up all kinds of new combinations!

6. Finally, add in any extra embellishments you want to support your theme or pull your colours together. I added a American Crafts chip button in red and a flower made from patterned paper (quick tutorial coming soon). Add your title and journaling - done.

Any time you feel like a bit of scrapping, but you can't pick a photo and you haven't found a story, turn to your stash and do a couple of these. Then save them for a rainy day or until the perfect picture appears!

As a little side note ..... the papers that Sian has used are now discounted as a blog special ... so now you can play along. You'll find them HERE

And one from me

2011-04-12T20:42:00.000+01:00

Each month I always think that, that months kit is the best ... and this month again is no different. I really like the mix of crate papers that you'll find HERE -

I really enjoyed using them with the photo that I took recently - when the moon was at it's largest.

Don't forget to send in your creations with the kit ... we'd love to see what you've created. I'll be sharing more of Clare's beautiful layouts on the site soon - and on here, she's really gone to town with the kit, that's for sure.

April Kit Ideas

2011-04-11T19:43:00.000+01:00

Well, I could hardly just leave you hanging on with that little sneaky peek, could I ... so here is the full and gorgeous layout from Clare, using the April's kit

Sneaky Peek

2011-04-09T21:36:00.000+01:00

This month's sneaky peek has been done by Clare, and oh she's been cheeky and not giving much away LOL.

The kit will be on sale on Monday 11th April around 7pm ... and I think you're going really like it :) its a mixture of papers from Crate, but please don't think it will be too "girly" ... I think you'll be happily surprised.

Such a talented bunch

2011-04-05T15:10:00.000+01:00

You really are! Here is another stunning, stunning layout to show you, that Mel, kindly sent to me ... ok, a little begging may have occured on my part!

This layout is the story of when Mel, met up with Sian ... and am I a little green with envy ..oohhhh yes LOL. Mel, just uses the most beautiful layering on her layouts ... you'll agree, it's stunning.

Please keep sending in your creations ... I've another to share with you soon :) as well as a very naughty sneaky peek at the kit from Clare.

Keep them coming

2011-03-30T16:56:00.000+01:00

As you know, we're always asking for you to share with us your creations from the monthly kits or other goodies you've been tempted into .. well, a thank you to Jo, for these lovely layouts created with March's For the Record kit.

Thank you Jo very much ... but we'll want to see what you achieve with next months kit too :)

I'll be back later on in the week with more customer layouts to share with you. These, however will be next on the shop site.

It's Just Scraps

2011-03-27T12:23:00.001+01:00

So, it's nearly the end of the month. Have you finished up your kit yet? I have a few bits left:

and I've been thinking of ways to use up the scraps.

First, I pulled out a fresh sheet of white cardstock (next time I think I might need to order more matching colour - a great way to stretch your kit). Choose one photo only and cut narrow strips from what is left of your patterned paper, to the width of your picture.

Layer them up.

Add texture and interest to a simple design like this with stitching, punched shapes or what is left from that beautiful sticker sheet.

Finally, check for charm. It's the finishing touch. Look at your layout and see what there is about it to charm your viewer. Is there something to make them smile? Something to make them say "Ooh! Look!"? Add a special piece. Here I used a Bumpy Road punch to make the top of my page look like a frothy head of Guinness. Finished.

Made with the add-on

2011-03-25T22:27:00.000Z

Ok, so the title on the layout says made with love ...but it was actually made with the add-on papers from March's kit

The story behind it; is that I really need to get a move on, if the goal I set myself for this year was to start and finish a quilt this year.

But I must say, that the kit really was one of my all time favs ... although saying that, I'm pretty much in love with April's kit :)

For the Record Layout

2011-03-23T12:46:00.000Z

Well someone was quick of the mark, that's for sure. Thank you Denise for sending this lovely layout over to me, for the blog and the site - it was created using March's For the Record kit .... of which only a very small number are left :) Its such a lovely layout - although I have my eye on those yummy cakes LOL.

Do pop over and say hello to Denise, trust me, once you see her blog, you'll be visiting again and again.

Don't forget to send over any projects you make with the kits or products - we'd love to showcase them here or link to your blog in the comments, and we'll visit.

I've got some wonderful Prima flowers which I'm about to upload onto the shop, so keep checking.

More Prima.....

2011-03-16T08:00:00.003Z

Following on from my last post here are a couple more layouts made with papers from the lovely Botanical, Madeline and Reflections ranges from Prima.

A lot of the Prima papers are crying out to be cut to make frames and that's exactly what I did with this layout using the Beloved paper from the Botanical range. I backed the whole thing with some Bazzill kraft card and then matted and layered in the centre with various papers and some pink Bazzill.

For my flower embellishments I punched some retro flowers from offcuts of the papers in 2 sizes, sprayed them with some water and then 'scrunched' them up a bit. When they were dry I chalked the edges of the petals. Sandra has a lovely selection of Prima bling in the shop, I used them for both the centres of the flowers and also for the swirl on the right hand side.

The second layout uses the Sweetheart paper from the Botanical range, I cut the centre out of it and backed it with the centre of the Beloved paper from the other layout. I distressed the edges of the 'aperture' by folding them over, letting them tear a little and then using some distress ink to finish off.

I then die-cut some swirls and punched some butterflies and added them to the page along with some rolled paper roses inked with distress ink and finished in the centres with Prima pearls.

I hope this gives you some inspiration for using the Prima Papers, they mix and match so well and if you grab yourself a little collection from the shop you won't be disappointed!

Reach For A Rosette (Or Two)

2011-03-14T09:05:00.000Z

Your kits will be arriving with you soon, and I'm sure you've got plans for them! I used my scraps to make a few more rosettes and today I thought I'd show you how I did it. It's an easy way to add dimension to a page, and a great base to use for a bit of layering

To start, cut your paper into strips about 2 inches wide and 6 inches long (any longer and it becomes too stiff to cut through). Punch a decorative pattern along the two long sides, or use scalloped scissors. Leaving it plain looks good too, but the scallops make it easy to do your folding

Make concertina folds backwards and forwards evenly along the strip, then hold it folded in your hand and cut a little notch in the middle on each of the long sides. Make sure it's in the centre or your rosette will be lopsided

Tie string tightly around the centre of your folded piece using the notches as a guide, then gently unfold and open up your rosette. Form it into a circle and glue the edges together.

Now use your rosette as a start to create a unique embellishment, layering up stickers or little punched shapes. The Echo Park papers are double sided, so check which side you prefer before you start. The two in the background here are For The Record, the one in the front is with a thinner Jenni Bowlin paper which folds up really nicely. Try it!

Simple! If you decide to add one to a layout this month, leave us a link. We'd love to see.

For The Record - March's Kit

2011-03-12T08:00:00.001Z

I loved this kit! I've been really looking forward to showing you what I made with the beautiful For The Record papers. And that sticker sheet? It's gorgeous. I layered up lots of stickers on my layouts, but I still have plenty left - it goes a long way. Let me show you..

I made this one:

For this one I handcut roses from a piece of patterend paper and layered them around my photos. I added a row of stitching to draw your eye to the embellishment cluster and used one of the stickers as a title.

and then I did this one:

I made room for lots of journaling on this one about a family newspaper I started many years ago

and because I didn't want to stop, I made this one as well. I think it might be my favourite!

On this one I layered up lots of stickers and added some dimension with that little rosette. Come back on Monday and I'll show you how easy it is to do

What about you? What ideas do you have for your kit? I'd love to know..

It's all go!

2011-03-10T21:55:00.000Z

Just a reminder that the March kit will be going on sale tomorrow at around 7pm, and of course I love all the kits but I have to say ... this one, well it's GORGEOUS :) .. and oh my what Sian has done with it ..oohhh I'm so excited.

Plus on another point - I've had a little holiday, nowhere very exciting - but I'm now back and raring to go and I've got ideas bursting out of my head ... as well as yummy stock all on order, and here's a couple of boxes that I need to start adding to the site soon, and more on the way.

I'd also like to say a huge thank you to the LOVELY design team for all your support, and to all you lovely readers and customers - you've been so supportive of me, so thank you so much. I've got such fabulous things planned for you all :)

New Prima Papers

2011-03-05T09:00:00.056Z

Prima always produce beautiful papers and the new ranges stocked in the shop are no exception. I have been busy with some papers from their Madeline, Reflections and Botanical ranges. First is this layout, the colours and patterns in the papers are so soft and delicate, perfect for girly layouts.

I added some flowers made from the patterned papers along with some punched butterflies and a bird cage cut on my Craft Robo (you can download the cutting file here which is also suitable for Silhouette machines).

I also made this birthday card with the papers, with some more curled paper flowers and a Prima brad and some ribbon from my stash to finish it off.

Thanks for stopping by, have a great weekend x

March Sneak Peeks

2011-03-03T08:23:00.000Z

So, who's ready for a peek at this month's kit, then? I just know you are going to love it. Sandra has packed it full of brand new paper - lots of it! All double-sided, with red and green and yellow for Spring.

There's a dashing pop of black, too. And if you like the papers, wait til you see what's in the add-on. I think it's a must-have.

Any ideas? To see if you are right, head over to the articles section in the shop. While you are there, you can pick up a hint about April's kit too..

March kit on sale from Friday 11th at 7.00pm.

Motivation to scrap part 4

2011-03-02T09:27:00.001Z

The layout that I have created today to illustrate dimension (although not handmade elements) is below. I have used some lovely Prima paper from Gotta Craft. You will see that I have cut out some of the labels or shapes on the back of this paper to use as a focal point to frame my photo. I used some deep blue script paper from the Prima Reflections range as a backing paper for this layout. You will see that I have added a dress form and opposite, some of the ostentatious new blooms from Prima. These dimnsional elements have corresponding colours and balance each other out. There is no real opportunity for much journalling on this layout, so I have just used it as a means of recording Lily aged 10 months.

Don't be afraid about buying or making dimensional elements. You can use chipboard that you have run through your die cutting machine which you can then paint and stamp or cover with patterned paper and sand. Flowers are an obvious place to start with this idea, but make sure that you don't overload your layout with too much of a good thing. In the same respect try not to have a dimensional element just 'hanging about' - make sure it has some kind of relationship with the other pieces on your page. It doesn't have to match the other colours, but if you are not sure, have a look at the colour wheel tutorial I did on yesterday's blog for some tips.

Texture can be created from many things that you already have in your stash - ribbon being one of the best starting points. If you are like me, then you will have reels of ribbons just waiting to be used, pleated and tied, but you never do, do you? I bet you have a box or clear jar full to the brim with beautiful satins, grosgrains that have been bought with the best of intentions, yet still never used. I really like some of the tutorials here. You will see on the layout below that I have used a similar technique to ruche some grosgrain ribbon

In the same layout I have added some handmade silk and tulle flowers. These were made just by folding and twirling the fabric around itself. You will need some fabric glue (or better still a hot glue gun) and then use Glossy Accents to adhere it to your cardstock or paper.

Another idea is to layer up flat accents such as chipboard shapes, buttons, etc to create a more dimensional look. On this layout I have layered a hear shaped piece of corrugated card, a scalloped piece of patterned paper, a felt heart and a button.

On this layout I have die cut a rosette and added a few buttons

One of my favourite ways to create dimension is with paper rolls. This technique is so simple and a brilliant way to use up your scraps. I have added a velvet ribbon on the layout below to group them all together.

This will be the last post on the Gotta Craft Shop Blog on how to get motivated to scrap again. You can hop over to my blog for the rest of the week for some more ideas.

Motivation to scrap part 3

2011-02-28T23:15:00.002Z

Morning all. Today I thought we could explore colour combination and dimension on scrapbook layouts. I have always struggled with matching colours, although I have always known that 'red and green should never be seen' (unless at Christmas). I often find that if I buy a stack of papers in a pack then it is much easier to coordinate layouts. All the papers are deisgned to work with each other (duh....I only just realised this!). I love the Echo Park ranges that have been coming out recently as they contain some lovely pinks and greens - one of my favourite colour combinations. I also love grey and pink. Anyway, after having bought myself a colour wheel I am now completely clued up on what goes and doesn't. I would like to share this with you today and hope this makes choosing complimentary papers and embellishments easier and so make your layouts look good.

Colour wheel image taken from The Style and Beauty Doctor blog

So here's how it works: colors opposite each other (like violet and yellow), colors next to each other (like green and yellow-green) and colors that form right angles (like yellow and red-orange) are all colors that will look good together. Look at this card that I made yesterday, it uses colours that are at right angles to each other (yellow and blue). The colours contrast but don't jar:

Sorry about the shadow - I got the angle of the light wrong. The Prima blooms used in this card are from Gotta Craft. You'll see that the card base is orange and that works too because the yellow and orange are next to each other on the colour wheel. One thing you need to be careful of is using all three colours in the same proportions as this will mean that they are all competing with each other. You would be better selecting one main bold colour (blue) and then accenting with two others (orange and yellow).

This can be a good rule of thumb too - if you select 4/5 colours that are next to each other on the wheel then this is also pleasing to the eye. One last tip with the colour combination is one I like to use a lot - select one colour and use various tones. This is a great way to make your layouts look 'together'.

This layout I did a few weeks ago shows how using patterned paper from the same range makes life easier (and cheaper in the long run). Layouts can look a bit more coherent.

You can also use some of your own handmade embellishments like I have in the next layout in order to compliment the colours in your project

All of the papers in the layout above are by American Crafts and their Dear Lizzy range. It would seem that as I have used polka dot, floral and bunting style papers that all the patterns and colours would jar, but they don't. This is because all the colours compliment each other. So, next time you are looking for the perfect colour to match your favourite papers, look at the other papers in that range - the hard work has been done for you by the manufacturers. That said, if you want to go and choose individual papers then buy them with colour matches in mind. Refer back to the colour wheel above to help you when you are shopping on line. It might just save you frustration, time and money!
I think I'll save dimension for tomorrow as I have droned on a bit about colour today! See you back here tomorrow for more tips and ideas to help you get motivated and creating layouts that you like again!

Motivation to scrap part 2

2011-02-28T06:54:00.002Z

Morning all. Yesterday I started you off with a few tips to get you motivated to scrap. Today I am going to talk about composition. Now I am no artist or graphic designer, but I think I know what looks good on a layout and what maybe could look better. Not every layout I do is anywhere near perfect, and sometimes you have to have the courage to stop, walk away from your project for 20 minutes or more and then return and either start again or look at the layout with a fresh pair of eyes and remove, add or move elements.

Today's layout is a case in point. It started off very differently, but I think this was the best I could do. I love using plain cardstock as a base for my layouts as sometimes I find that a busy patterned paper just throws me and my layout idea due to its busyness. A way around this is to literally start with a blank canvas. I chose a piece of the lovely Songbird paper from Prima. I tried several ideas for layouts on the beautiful paper on the other side, but in the end I plumped for the grey plain side. This meant that I was in control of the layout, not the paper. Here is the layout

You can see that I have chosen to position the photo to the left and then added paper elements that are the same width and length. The symmetrical appearance is pleasing to the eye. I have added a shocking pink ruffle ribbon in the centre to draw the eye's attention to both the photo and the journalling. I have added some Prima paper to the bottom which contains some more pink to tie the elements together. You will see that I have used pink fabric Thickers to correspond to the other pink elements on the page. I have punched a small butterfly to add to the top corner of the photo and added a pearl which relates to the pearl border underneath the journalling. You will also notice the pearls around the date. All of these similar elements tie the layout together and lead your eye from the top left to the middle and then the top right. This is how we read and why I think this composition works.

I thought I would recap on the tips I have given you so far about how to motivate you to scrap successfully and enjoy it once again:

1. Try using black and white or sepia toned photos.

2. Try to compose your layouts in a symmetrical way as this is simple technique to start with and pleasing to the eye. Have a look at this other layout I did to see what I mean.

3. If you are using a colour photo, pick out one or two of the colours and use those to help you choose your patterned papers and embellishments.

4. Try using plain cardstock as a base rather than patterned paper - that way you can control the layout. Kraft, black, white, cream and grey are great bases.

5. Use the same or similar accents across your layouts in order to tie all of the elements together.

You can get the vast majority of the papers and embellishments that I use from Gotta Craft. Here is the sketch that I had in my mind when trying to create the layout today.

I would love to hear what you think about any of the tips I have given so far or anything you may be struggling with that I or the DT be able to help you with. Back tomorrow with another layout that will help with colour choices and adding dimensional elements.

2011-02-27T17:05:00.000Z

Hello everyone. All over blog and forum land I am reading about people losing their impetus to create layouts, finish them and be happy with them. I really understand this frustration - you can sit staring at your stash for what seems like hours and nothing seems to jump out at you. You look through magazines and blogs and feel even more down about the fact that you think you will never be able to re-create what you see. Even when you start to scrap and stick your elements down, you realise that you don't like your layout and decide that what will help you is to go out and buy more stash, which if you are honest with yourself, will just get stored away until your mojo returns.

We have all been there or are there now. The answer is not to go out and spend hundreds of pounds on every Prima flower just released or 50 sheets of patterned paper with all the matching accessories. You will never use these things unless you address why you feel you can't start or finish a layout that you are happy with. I feel I can say this because this is exactly how I felt and what I did until recently. I thought I would share some top tips with you this week to get you motivated to scrap. I will obviously include layouts that I have completed following that day's tip. I thought I would show you what I do to get myself going. I try to think about 3 or 4 layouts at a time. I gather up all of the elements I like and think will complement my photo or patterned paper I want to use and place them near each other on my table.

Okay, so today's tip to get your mojo kick started is to print your photos out in various sizes and in black and white only. If you haven't done this before you will be amazed how much easier the whole process of laying out all of your elements can become. By using black and white or sepia even, you will not have the difficulty of matching colour elements in your photo to patterned paper that you don't own. That said, if you do love colour photos then select a key colour from the photo and use that as your starting point for selecting colours of your cardstock and papers. Here is my layout for today:

This paper is from the Prima Melody collection and has a lovely frame which is a great starting point to help you arrange the elements on your page. I have selected an 8x6 photo which will ensure that it is the main element on my page. I wanted to frame the picture so I used some coordinating Prima flowers and then some AC ruffle ribbon. I have added some large pearl brads and Prima pebbles. You can see that all the elements on the page coordinate and have a 'relationship' with each other. The frame I have made with the flowers and butterfly leads the eye around the page and the rub ons (Lily Bee) provide some balance to the layout as a whole. There is no real journalling on this page but I don't think it's necessary here. The photo says it all. I'll be back tomorrow with tips on composition and dimension. Here is the sketch I had in my mind when I was creating this simple layout. If you want to see some more examples of my layouts then hop pver to my blog for some ideas.

So many goodies .... so little time :)

2011-02-23T12:08:00.000Z

Well I spent a wonderful day at the trade show, ..... so here are the pictures I promised .. I warn you now I've gone a little mad with taking so many, so I've tried to show you just the best. I won't waffle on anymore ... just leave you to browse :)

Sorry, for the random way the photos are placed, for some reason I couldn't get them to play nicely today .

Trade Show ... Here I come

2011-02-20T19:15:00.000Z

Just wanted to let you know that I'm off to the trade show tomorrow, and I'll be armed with my camera, so I'm going to try my best to bring you lots of yummy sneaky peeks back :)

New Design Team Member

2011-02-18T00:01:00.001Z

Hello to you all - my name is Hannah and I am the latest member of the Gotta Craft Design Team. Sandra has asked me to introduce myself today, so I thought I would tell you all a little bit about myself. I am 30 and mum to two very precious little girls, Poppy and Lily Rose. They really are my motivation when it comes to scrapbooking. I am fascinated by every little thing that they do and say. I am terrified that I will forget all of these special moments and so I decided this year to make a real effort to record their funny sayings and relationships through a scrapbook. Here is a little taste of a layout that I completed this week using papers from Gotta Craft. They are all from the Echo Park Little Girl range and I have to say I really love it.

My scrap book style has developed over time and can be minimalist and quite graphic, but equally it can be completely over the top - it just depends on the photo I am scrapping and the mood I am in! I will usually go for quite a lot of dimension which makes it difficult to store my work sometimes. I do quite like putting some of my favourite layouts into Ikea shadow boxes and changing them now and then.
While I like all things girlie, I have recently been trying my hand at black, white and grey layouts which I now love. I did this layout yesterday using some lovely chipboard alphas from the Gotta Craft sale

Anyway, I am delighted to be working alongside Sandra and the very talented Gotta Craft Design Team and look forward to sharing more of my projects and seeing some of yours too!

Pretty Prima Papers

2011-02-16T18:35:00.000Z

Prima have some gorgeous papers and I've used two different ranges for my two layouts. The first one uses papers from the 'Indeed' range, my base paper has an image on an ornate gate on it which I cut around with a craft knife so I could slip my photos underneath it. I then used some Prima Flowers to embellish the page, layering them up with punched flowers to give more dimension.

The second layout uses papers from the 'Animal Bash' range (apologies for the quality of the photo - there was no daylight today to allow a half decent photo!)

The flowers are really simple to make, they start off as simple circles of paper which you distress a little, spray with water, scrunch up and then flatten out before sticking together. I also inked the edges with a little Tim Holtz distress ink.

Thanks for stopping by.
Clare x

Crate Is Great!

2011-02-15T09:35:00.000Z

I'm Sian and I love a bargain! Have you had a chance to check out all the lovely sale stock yet? I was lucky enough to get my hands on some Crate Paper Lemon Grass and some KI Memories embellishments

and I put them together to make this:

The Lemon Grass really gives a seventies look. When I'm thinking about what to put on a layout I start by deciding the mood I want to create. I don't always go straight for the latest, because it might not be the greatest! Choosing products which support your story and your photo will give your page a lot more impact, so reach back into your stash; or, even better, check out the sale! You might find exactly what you are looking for..

More inspiration...

2011-02-12T09:31:00.000Z

Welcome to the weekend, I hope everyone has got something nice in store, whether it's chilling on the sofa, a nice walk in the fresh air or some retail therapy! If you haven't already you will want to check out the sale, there are lots of amazing prices there so a good time to stock up. Here are a couple more projects, the first is a layout, using Fancy Pants 'On a Whimsy' These papers are great as some of them already have a pretty background on them which make a good basis for your layout.

This card uses the same papers (the more muted back of the papers) along with some pretty Flower Stickers from Me and My Big Ideas. I love working with stickers but to make my life easier I like to stick them onto some thin card or paper first which means I can play around with then design and also I can add foam pads for a bit of height which is what I did with some of the flowers on my card. To finish off I used some Liquid Pearls to add some random swirls amongst the flowers, and some pearls to finish off the centres of some of the flowers.

I hope these projects give you some inspiration, I'll be back soon with more!

Clare x

Please bear with me .....

2011-02-11T23:41:00.000Z

It's been a rather busy day to say the least ... so please bear with me, as dispatch is going to be a little slower over the next few days, getting orders together.

I'm going to be trying my best to keep the site updated, and remove out of stock items. In the mean time, though, I'm going to be sharing with you some of the amazing work that the talented design team have been doing ... first up is a lovely layout from the talented Sian ... do check out her blog, FROM HIGH IN THE SKY, it's truely amazing ... what with Pass The Book, and Storytelling Sunday, trust me you'll be hooked.

This beautiful layout, was created with Daisy Bucket Papers, Co-ordination cardstock and lovely embellies from KI

It's Go ... Go .... Go

2011-02-10T19:26:00.000Z

It's all systems go here ... the sale has started, and is in almost every department, so go get a bargain ... and also February's kit, has just gone on sale ... and already selling fast.

This month you'll find papers from two collections, Fancy Pants Love Birds, and Glitz, Love Nest. But don't worry, you'll not find this kit too lovey dovey LOL.

Do come back tomorow ... I've got an amazing layout to share with you, with papers you'll find in our Sale.

Sale Time is Nearly Here......

2011-02-09T15:12:00.000Z

As Sandra says in the post below she is putting the finishing touches to the shop sale that starts tomorrow. She's asked me to give you a sneeky peek of something I have made using some of the fabulous products in the shop. Here is a card to get started with, I've also been busy with some scrapbook layouts which I'll reveal whilst the sale is on. The patterned paper is from Sassafras Lass and the stamps is one of the lovely images from Belles 'n Whistles, coloured with Promarkers.

Make sure you check back tomorrow to grab yourself some goodies!

Some News .....

2011-02-09T14:54:00.000Z

Ok, I have lots planned for you all and Gotta Craft, which I'll be sharing with you soon.

So like they all say ... In no particular order ....

Dont' forget our sale is starting tomorrow
The kit goes on sale tomorrow too .... busy, busy day

and here it comes .....

A new design team member will be starting :) ... I will tell you no more ... I'll just leave that up to her, to come and introduce herself. Trust me ... this year, the Design Team are going to blow you away ... I'm the luckiest person to know such talented people.

also, I can't leave you without a picture, can I ... so here is a picture that I took of my desk, to join in the fun at WOYWW ... but if you look closely ... you may just see a little peek at the kit on sale tomorrow!!!

The Boy

2011-02-05T22:33:00.000Z

Using papers that were in the December kit, Echo Park's Everybody Loves Christmas - I created this layout of my boy, with one of his christmas presents ... you may just see the toy that he also received left all chewed up in the background, the squeak long gone!

Do take a look at the gorgeous papers here .... you'll find yourself using them not just for Christmas projects.

Sneaky Peek Time

2011-02-04T18:01:00.000Z

It can't be that time again, already? Where did January go?

Well here it is ... Feburary's sneaky peek. To be fair, it's a little bit different this months kit - instead of the papers all coming from one collection, I've mixed it up, just a little bit.

You will find though, of course, gorgeous papers, cardstock, a sheet of alpha stickers, chipboard, buttons, journaling card ... and the list goes on :)

The kit will be on sale on Thursday 10th.