Carmi's Art/Life World

Home from California

2012-02-02T12:54:00.000-05:00

I am back home and unpacking a few large pieces of luggage. The Craft and Hobby show was another exciting whirlwind. I was thrilled to teach two classes to launch the new Jewelry Resin created by ETI.

I am sure the post conference lull will set in later this afternoon.

There will be no large gatherings of friends to look forward too, no new product launches and no restaurant desserts.

But of course, I am super happy to be home with my two best friends. They'll just have to come up with some sort of special treat with coffee later this afternoon so the special CHA feeling will last a day or two longer.

Hoping To Blog From California

2012-01-27T09:17:00.002-05:00

I am heading to the Craft and Hobby show in California!

I'll have pictures and many posts to share.

Please stay tuned!

It Takes A Village

2012-01-26T20:51:00.001-05:00

Packing for The Craft and Hobby show in California and going on The Shopping Channel again this week sure had me scrambling. I needed help. I am grateful to have received it. Here are Paul and Magnus getting my class handouts stapled.

And here is Nancy. She's my big gun. If I call her...things get done.

Really, no task too small or too large.

I had four pieces of jewelry in various states of assembly...she finished them all for me and they are on their way to California with me to be in several showcases.

I also managed to get her hooked on kumihimo...and she made one fabulous new strand for me.....

Thank you Paul, Magnus and Nancy!

Back On The Shopping Channel!

2012-01-25T17:35:00.001-05:00

On Thursday January 26 I am back at the Shopping Channel!

11:30am

3:30pm

11pm - Canceled ( I am done for today!)

Craft Links

2012-01-23T09:16:00.002-05:00

John Bead has a beautiful full page advertisement in many of the jewelry magazines this month.

I am so pleased to see the leaves I stamped in the picture. You can learn how I made them by reading the blog post I did.

Here are this week's crafty blogger links!

Aileen's Musings
Aileen shows you how she created magic by turning an ordinary paper mache torso into a lamp that looks like patinaed copper!

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi has a cross over link so you can enter to win a kumihimo starter kit!

Craftside-A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world
This week at Craftside there are tutorials on how to spin extreme tail style yarn, make ATC's from magazine pages and punches, an ironic heart frame from unusual images, and a recipe for laminated parsley pasta.

Crafty Princess
Interested in knitting or crocheting for charity? Tammy invites you to join a new group of charity yarn crafters.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Eileen's happy to be back in her niche. Have you found yours yet?

Mixed Media Artist
Cyndi plays around with inkjet printer silk!
Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery
How to make an origami bunny Easter garland.

Sunday Beading Links

2012-01-22T13:43:00.000-05:00

A Bead A Day
Interested in using plastic to create special Valentine's Day Jewelry? Here are a couple of pieces for inspiration.

About.com Jewelry Making
What is better than some beaded embroidery how-to for a buck? Errr..nothing!

Art Bead Scene
Heather offers a beautiful free project inspired from high in the treetops!

Beading Arts
Cyndi has been trying to encourage everyone to get out there and take a class this year!

Beads & Books
See the 30+ beautiful winter jewelry designs in the Secret Snowflake Challenge. Participants used techniques such as bead embroidery, resin, stringing, wirework, etching, and more!

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi has a link to a kumihimo give-a-way to share!

Charlene Sevier Jewelry
Sometimes jewelry acts up a little before it comes together. Charlene shares one of those times

Earthenwood Studio Chronicles
Melanie looks back at an older post where a favorite song inspired a series of wing themed pendants.

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Valentine's Day is one of the most delightful days on Jean's calendar! Why? Because she gets to think about love, and jewelry such as the astounding pendants at NanoStyle! Tell your beloved "I love you" in a most incredible way!

Year of The Knot-Off to a Good Start!

2012-01-20T09:25:00.000-05:00

I am working hard to learn this ancient craft!

This week I finished three kumihimo projects for the John Bead blog!

This is super easy to do and I wanted to be sure you knew about the John Bead Give-A-Way!

You can win a starter kit to join me in the Year of The Knot!

Find this post on the Dazzle-It Facebook page and "like it" to win!

My Westcott Show Table

2012-01-19T09:53:00.000-05:00

Setting up my table for my on-air presentations for Westcott on The Shopping Channel Tues/Wed was great fun! I have not presented on a big sewing day and wanted to be sure my table looked bright and full of fabric.

On one corner of my table were a few of my favorite things. The three bags and the mini quilt were made by my friend Ludgera. Everything she creates is so different. Unfortunately, I never use a single thing she makes....I display them instead. They fall in the "too good to use" category!

This is the special kit that debuted. The pricing is amazing and if you need scissors I can highly recommend them!

Thank you to Westcott for the opportunity to be part of their launch.

Special thanks to Brenda and Wendy!

The Little Tool That Will Change My Life

2012-01-17T10:32:00.001-05:00

Here it is.

Small, cute and pretty.

It might be overly dramatic to say it will change my life...but it sure will contribute to it.

This is one of the scissors I will be debuting in a wonderful sewing/quilting kit on The Shopping Channel tonight. Westcott, the world's favorite scissors are going to be on-air for the first time and the 3 Inch Fine Cut titanium bonded scissors are in the kit.

And they truly work!

For years I have tried to use these tiny Victorian style scissors for fine detail work.

My hands are large and quite frankly, the scissors don't feel right when I hold them. Because of that, I have subconsciously avoided detail work. When you don't have the right tool for the job...you are less likely to complete the project and even less likely to complete it well.

Then Westcott introduces me to these scissors. The thumb and finger bows are large. They are contoured with a soft grip. They are quite frankly, very comfortable. See how my thumb has lot's of room now. Also, see that area I marked...bruising from the other scissors.

So I have to ask myself.

I have so many expensive tools in my studio. I have wonderful sewing machines and a serger.

I have fabrics and fibers. I have every sort of paper man can create. I have threads of every weight and size.

Why do I have crappy scissors?

My stainless steel gummed up blade scissors are in the garage where they can end their days cutting twine for recycling.

For my studio it will be Westcott Titanium!

If you are looking to upgrade you really have to tune in to see this special kit on The Shopping Channel! I will be doing the launch in the 10pm spot tonight.

Tentative times (live tv means lot's of possible changes)

Tuesday - 10:20pm

Wednesday - 7:25am, 10:15am, 7:50pm, 9:20pm

If you can't watch and want to purchase this kit online...wait until after the launch tonight at 10pm because I know The Shopping Channel always does an extra special price when there is a new product being introduced!

Westcott Is Debuting on The Shopping Channel!

2012-01-16T12:26:00.002-05:00

I am having a great time making these mini rag quilting squares!

I need them for a very special presentation!

Westcott has asked me to present their first ever sewing kit on The Shopping Channel this week!

My first presentation starts Tuesday evening and then I'll be on a number of times Wednesday!

17th-10:00pm;

18th-midnight, 7:00am, 10:00am, 1:00pm, 3:00pm, 5:00pm, 7:00pm, 9:00pm

So I have a very good excuse to pull out my fabrics to sew cute little samples!

The Westcott special kit is going to have an unreal price point...it is a huge bundle! These samples were so easy to make because I am using the Spring Assist Micropoint scissors in that kit. They are fantastic for fabric and this style of rag quilting is a breeze with them! I really like the "ich liebedich -translation I love you" squares!

See this wonderfully soft edging? After making all your cuts, the dryer does the rest. I'll be demoing this technique during the on-air live presentation!

Westcott - "ich liebe" your scissors!

2012 The Year of the Knot

2012-01-12T11:33:00.001-05:00

Okay, I might be late, but I am declaring 2012 as the Year of The Knot!

It began at the end of 2011.

I learned how to make a friendship bracelet. A series of knots.

Then John Bead released a whole group of hemp strings. I learned a few more knots.

Okay more than a few.

I couldn't stop.

I love a craft that is low tech, Just me, some string and a series of knots.

I was thinking I might be on to something. A new craft that I could take anywhere.

And now KUMIHIMO!

The Japanese art of the knot.

I am venturing down a path to learn this ancient art form.

John Bead is bringing in all the supplies.

I have books en route from Amazon.

Google searches have begun.

Let me know if you are a Kumihimo fan too!

Seeking Ideas and A Few Crafty Links

2012-01-10T09:33:00.000-05:00

I have a challenge.

I am trying to figure out what to do with this amazing peel and stick resin......

Meanwhile, here are some crafty inspirations!

Your Grandmother's Crafts
These ARE your grandmother's crafts. Ya gotta problem with that? I didn't think so.

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery
Learn how to make an old pair of shoes glitter-tastic!

Mixed Media Artist
The plans for Cyndi's new marbled fabric quilt are coming together!

Margot Potter The Impatient Crafter
Make some Retrofabulous Pulp Fiction Thank You Cards!

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Add beautiful kaleidoscope effects to your hand made cards with iris folded designs.

Crafty Princess Diaries
The Crafty Princess shows you how to get cozy with your favorite cup of tea.

Craft. You.
Meet the man behind TV host and mid-century modern lifestyle expert Brini Maxwell.

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi starts off her year by experimenting with nylon wire mesh...a medium really new to her!

Aileen's Musings
Aileen shows you how she created a patinated copper steampunk necklace using paper!

RockPaperInk
Waste not, Want not: The science and practice of sustainable design

Sunday Beading Links

2012-01-08T12:38:00.000-05:00

Today is the ideal Sunday! No commitments, no big luncheons. Just a day to get caught up!

Looking forward to a busy week!

About.com Jewelry Making
Step up from the basic pearl post earrings with this dangle earring tutorial.

Art Bead Scene
It's the start of a new year and a new month and that means a new Art Bead Scene challenge! Check out the beautiful color palette that we pulled from a William Morris wallpaper design.

Beading Arts
Have you heard about Take a Stitch Tuesday?

Earthenwood Studio Chronicles
Melanie starts a new blog project for the year, being inspired by places of the imagination. Read about the first month's inspiration of places in the sky.

Resin Crafts!
Carmi makes a rose themed necklace with cooking molds.

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean's involved in a new project! It's jewelry, wait--it's crafts, no--hold on--it's dolls, no wait! It's a book! Hold on to your hats! It's a whole bunch of fun and it is debuting this week! See more on Jean's blog!

Trying Out a New Medium

2012-01-06T08:58:00.000-05:00

This unusual bundle of tubes is something I really enjoyed experimenting with.

2012 is the year I plan to experiment with some new jewelry making techniques and components.

Nylon wire mesh is one of them.

You can sew on it.

Pass beads over it.

Or simply fill it with beads. It really is a unique product.

I blogged about it this week for John Bead if you want a little more information.

Resin Roses

2012-01-05T08:40:00.001-05:00

I made something really different for Resin Crafts Blog today!

Bead Blogger Links!

2012-01-02T16:37:00.000-05:00

Happy to have today to set up all my projects for the month!

A Bead A Day
New year, new jewelry! Lisa's working on a new piece to start the new year off right. What are you working on?

About.com Jewelry Making
Tammy shares some of her favorite jewelry tutorials from 2011.

Art Bead Scene
Check out the funky metallic necklace our weekly challenge winner Molly Alexander made using copper elements.

Carmi's Art/Life World
The holidays give Carmi the time to return to felting some special beads!

Snap out of it, Jean!There's beading to be done!
Jean found out that Kim Miles, one of the greatest art glass beaders in the USA, is having an ongoing sale! Check Jean's blog for details!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton

Andrew finally gets his torch-fired enameling station setup and embraces color on metal!

Felted Beads For New Years!

2012-01-01T10:00:00.000-05:00

Last week I showed you the green felted beads I hand sewed for Christmas Day. This past week I sewed two beads every night for New Years! These black and white beads turned out even better than I planned.

I ran out of black beads and made two with some matte silver ones.

Here is one of the beads up close.

I ended the year with a very relaxing project.

I think that is a good way to ease into 2012.

Walking Through Fire

2011-12-31T16:04:00.002-05:00

This is one of my favorite pictures of myself.

Yup, I am walking through fire. A daring feat I mastered several years (decades) ago. When you walk through fire you get a first hand opportunity to experience what the expression "mind over matter" really means.

AND

If you walk through fire you are forever changed in other ways too.

A little mantra enters your psyche and then it comes to you in any future stressful situation.

"You walked through fire, you can handle this too."

2011 was a very stressful year for me and my beloveds.

Yet, I am grateful for so much. My husband is a rock and continues to support me in all that I do. I have a wonderful family and good friends. I have the world's cutest golden retriever. I have some amazing work related opportunities coming up in 2012.

Having setbacks or stress is part of life I know.

For myself, I sure do look forward to some boring times. I like that some things do not change. I really appreciate that no news is good news. I like when one week flows into the next. I don't enjoy or try to attract drama. Call me dull - I'll smile happily.

I channel all my excitement and creativity into making art.

2011 was a year fire walking experience sure came in handy.

For 2012, all I want is calm cool path. It can twist and change directions, but I prefer not to see any coals if possible.

Happy New Year Friends!

Saying Good Bye To Santa

2011-12-30T09:34:00.000-05:00

This is the first year in a very long time that we got all our Christmas decorating done the last week of November. We have really enjoyed the festive atmosphere and the outdoor display was a pleasure to drive home to in the evenings. But it is time to say goodbye to Santa. As happy as I was to get everything done early this year, I am just as happy to get everything put away early too! Today we de-Christmas. I am excited about the New Year and feel the need to get our home re-set.

Green For The Holidays and STITCHED!

2011-12-27T10:17:00.001-05:00

I made something for myself over the weekend. I finished it in time to wear to our Christmas Day family gathering.

My felt beads are a specialty! I use very thick felt, gorgeous ribbons and beads.

I was totally inspired by Alma Stoller who offered an online fiber bead class last year. It was the best class I have ever taken! I made so many samples and started many different fiber bead experiments. I had all the supplies...I just needed the starting point!

This is what it looks like around a neckline.

I am thinking about making one to celebrate New Years - black and diamonds!

Alma has launched a huge online workshop series for 2012!

Here is the link.

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-24T14:21:00.000-05:00

See you next week!

One of My Favorite Gifts

2011-12-23T09:17:00.000-05:00

Thank you Fran!

2011-12-22T00:12:00.004-05:00

 Hello everyone and I hope you are enjoying the festive season.  

This is my last blog post for the Crafter's Companion US Blog. I have really enjoyed all the projects I have worked on this year!

The new SWALK sets are all fabulous. My project has a size maximum so I needed to work with a stamp image that would fit in a preselected space.

My idea was to stamp this cute girl and penguins on card stock so that I could stand the image up in a plastic ornament.

Coloring her was fun! She looks like she had spent some time at the hair dresser!

Once I placed her in the plastic ornament and added some wired jewels to the base I tried to find a spot to photograph her. It is very hard to take a picture of a reflective ball!

Here is a better close up. Isn't she festive?

Resin Crafts Blog Post

2011-12-21T21:01:00.000-05:00

You might wonder what happens when a company that sells resin beads send a package via the mail to me. You might think "she needs more resin like a hole........"

There can never be enough resin.

The one thing that happens is that I try and think of a way to make the resin my own! This huge pink donut has been glazed twice with Envirotex Jewelry Resin and now I am sure I am the only one in the world with a donut like it. Unless of course you like my idea and want to make one too!

Natural Touch sent me some amazing samples to play with. I love them all!

Today's post features pink resin but they are available in every colour under the rainbow!

I used:

One 55 mm resin donut bead (pink)

Two resin dice beads (pink)

Two resin rondelle beads (pink)

Odds and ends from my stash to finish the necklace.

I decided to glue this tissue rose on to my pink donut.

I added some green glitter marker lines and applied a light glaze of resin. I let this cure overnight.

A glaze cures a lot quicker than a shallow pour. The next day, I applied some pink gel marker lines and then sealed this again with another light glaze of resin. I let this cure for another day.

See how my rose looks like it is part of the resin bead now?

This post was created for Resin Crafts Blog.

The Flower Delivery Truck

2011-12-19T22:13:00.000-05:00

I think the doorbell ringing and seeing a florist standing there is my favorite kind of delivery.

You just never know who sent them and opening the card is too much fun!

Thank you Nancy!

Sunday Beading Links

2011-12-18T10:03:00.000-05:00

My favorite project this past week.

Enjoy my Bead Blogger links today!

A Bead A Day
Share your holiday jewelry on A Bead A Day blog. Just leave a comment or send an email to get your work featured!

About.com Jewelry Making
No time to make beaded ornaments? This is so not true when you have this super fast and inexpensive tutorial to help you.

Art Bead Scene
Jennifer decks the halls with a super colorful, Jangles styled bead garland, and her free tutorial will show you how to make one too!

Beading Arts
Every new year should bring a new challenge. How about getting inspired by the Ring A Day challenge...and maybe win a copy of the book?

Carmi's Art/Life World
This week I made a beautiful component even better!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean has fun being a new designer blogger for Nina Designs! Come and see what she made!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Andrew shares a couple of magazines that he was recently published in.

Crafty Blogger Links

2011-12-17T14:10:00.000-05:00

I did have a crafty week making ornaments!

Looks like all my crafty blogger friends were busy too!

Aileen's Musings
Aileen shows you how she took pre made cards and embellished them to make her own Christmas cards she mailed out this year.

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi enters the Friendship Bracelet world and learns a thing or two.

Craft Buds
Turn that old wool sweater into a personalized keepsake. Learn how to make a monogram sweater ornament, embellished with jingle bells.

Craft. You.
Meet Jenny Barnett-Rohrs of Craft Test Dummies this week on Craft. You.!

Craftside-A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world
This week at Craftside there is a double giveaway featuring books and Styrofoam shapes along with tutorials and patterns for Christmas painting and knitting along with a recipe for vegan nut butter dip and some adorable photos of our newest Amineko.

Crafty Princess Diaries
Tammy is able to spill the beans about a new jewelry business adventure she is exploring.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
"Santa Claus is coming to town." Are you ready for The Artful Crafter's annual Christmas Parade of Crafts?

Lindsay Sews
With the holiday ornament swap complete, you can check out photos of the lovely handmade ornaments--including bacon!

Margot Potter The Impatient Crafter
Madge turns some styrofoam and sparkly things into a Retrofabulous Suzy Snowflake Snowlady!

Mixed Media Artist
Crochet a really nifty gift in just about two hours!

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery

How to make a yarn ball and dpn Christmas tree.

Friendship Bracelet - My First

2011-12-15T11:48:00.001-05:00

This post is a salute to the gazillions of girls who have made and shared a classic friendship bracelet.

Now I know why if you get one you leave it tied on for a very long time.

The Shopping Channel had The Friendship Bracelet Maker on air this fall and after seeing the wonderful samples I decided to buy two sets. One for me and one for a crafty child in my life. I felt obligated to test it out before presenting it to the child...just in case I was asked to demonstrate it!

I pulled everything out of the box and followed the instructions.

And that's when the whining began!

Well, a little under my breath complaining.

Do you see how many knots are needed? Ten for every row....and you need 100 to make an inch of bracelet.....wait a minute....this will take some time! So over the next two nights of TV viewing I made my bracelet.

When you invest that much time into something...you don't give it away willy nilly.

It really has to go to a BFF.

I glammed up my bracelet with a jeweled button.

My sample is now on my mannequin's wrist. I'm not done. I need to make a second bracelet to see if I can speed things up a little!
I learned a thing or two though.

1.  Just because there is a child on the box...doesn't mean it is easy...or just for children.

2.  The tool itself is excellent.  I am thinking of other ways to use it.  Nothing holds strings in place better!  

3. The online community for Friendship Bracelets is huge and the manufacturer has a wonderful facebook page with lots and lots of ideas.
4. This is a great gift idea...but for my older girlfriends and not just their kids!

Bracelets That Look Like You Spent Hours Crafting!

2011-12-14T10:34:00.002-05:00

Over the last week I have been posting some ideas on the John Bead Blog about how to craft some super easy bracelets. You can win one of the bracelets (that I used to craft these samples) by "LIKING" Dazzle-It's Facebook page. Make sure you leave a comment on the link to the special post announcing the giveaway (shown below.)

I am At The Shopping Channel Today!

2011-12-13T06:10:00.002-05:00

This will probably be my last time on-air at The Shopping Channel this year! We have extra special pricing to share!

Right now the times are 11am, 3pm and 11pm.

Nina Designs Meets Jewelry Resin

2011-12-12T02:41:00.086-05:00

I was very pleased to be contacted by Nina Designs last month. They wondered if I would be interested in a selection of samples to use in a blog post. I don't always say yes to these requests, but the Nina Designs website is one that features some absolutely beautiful jewelery components. I was very curious to see what they might send me to experiment with. I posted this today on Resin Crafts Blog and thought I would share it here too.

My package contained some gorgeous bronze charms! As soon as I saw these pieces I decided to do something elegant and simple...which is hard for me. I didn't want the charms to get hidden in one of my over embellished samples.

The Nina Designs website is easy to navigate. Many of the pieces I liked are available in different colours...although I love the bronze!

I did want to put my stamp on the final design though. I took one look at this butterfly wing and decided I would fill it with resin....turning it into a stained glass background for my sweet bird on a perch charm.

To accomplish this task I glued tissue paper to the back of the pendant and when this dried I filled the tiny openings with resin. I am currently experimenting with the new Jewelry Resin from ETI and I knew this technique would be of interest to my readers on Resin Crafts Blog. I don't always get to show them a finished piece of jewelery.

This is the back of my butterfly charm after I cut away the excess tissue paper and the resin had cured.

I applied a thin layer of Resin Jewelry to the back of the charm too. This makes this even stronger and the tissue paper will not rub away when worn.

Then I assembled my necklace!

The leather cord looks fantastic and professionally finished with these bronze tulip crimps.

The bird on the perch charm looks great on top of the butterfly wing!

And finally, I added the one extra leaf charm I received in my sample set.

Here is what I used from Nina Designs:

Bronze Butterfly Wing Pendant

Bronze Leaf Charm

Bronze Bird on a Perch

Bronze Tulip Hook and Eye Crimp Clasp

Leather Cord (lots to choose from)

I really enjoyed this project. Thank you to Nina Designs for sending me my free samples!

Sunday Beading Links

2011-12-11T12:25:00.002-05:00

It is a work weekend for me.

I am on The Shopping Channel one last time this week and really looking forward to being t the studio!

So I am prepping and resorting all my presentation samples.

Hope you have a wonderful Sunday!

A Bead A Day
If you are looking for some fabulous giveaways by a wide variety of artists and crafters, Lisa is linking you up!

About.com Jewelry Making
Time and money are items many of us don't have much of right now, but not to worry. These simple projects are just what you need to inexpensively spread some holiday jewelry love.

Art Bead Scene
Erin provides an inspiring treasury of architecture inspired jewelry components to give us some ideas for the Art Bead Scene December challenge!

Beading Arts
Wanna learn to work with chains in your jewelry designs? Cyndi has a copy of "Chains Chains Chains" up for grabs!

Beads & Books
Michelle turns an inexpensive printer's tray from a craft store into a beautiful display for a jewelry show.

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi has a series of bezels filled with last year's Christmas cards to share this week.

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean hosts a very lovely giveaway from the sublime bead and jewelry store in Florence, Italy, Beaded Lily!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Andrew creates a piece to be silently auctioned off to help a fellow artist out! Bid on his necklace to win and check out all the other fantastic auctions going on!

Crafty Blogger Links

2011-12-10T10:41:00.000-05:00

About Family Crafts
Play along with the current craft challenge and submit an angel craft or two.

Aileen's Musings
Aileen not only offers you a fantabulous Glitzy bleached Christmas tree project but also a giveaway on her blog this week!

Carmi's Art/Life World
A post about remembering the December birthdays!

Craft Buds
Create H.O.P.E. Designs is making a world of difference through sewing patterns, and Mary stitches up the A+ Art Portfolio.

Craft. You.
This week on Craft. You.: Heather Mann of Dollar Store Crafts

Craftside-A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world
This week at Craftside there is a fun new video on how to tint gesso with pastels by Traci Bunkers, tutorials on how to draw Christmas trees and poinsettias, tips on cleaning glassware and a yummy recipe for vegan maple bacon doughnuts.

Crafty Princess Diaries
Tammy takes a look at a craft book packed full of projects.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Do you know about yarn bombing? Whimsical hand knit and crocheted art is circling the globe!

Lindsay Sews
He's cute and cuddly, and you can sew him with just one yard of fabric. Take a peek at Hugh Manatee from the new book, Fabric-by-Fabric: One-Yard Wonders.

Margot Potter The Impatient Crafter
It's a video! It's two craft projects with instructions! It's RETROFABULOUS! Yay!

Mixed Media Artist
If you've still got any autumn leaves available, here's a pretty idea for using them up!

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery
How to make a recycled sweater wreath with a candy style bow.

Recycling My Christmas Cards

2011-12-08T20:42:00.000-05:00

I have been happily blogging about some of the Christmas cards I managed to reuse from last year.

Working for Resin Crafts Blog means that I think about projects all the time. These resin filled bezels all feature a portion of a card I saved from last year. I plan to turn them all into ornaments for my tree. I don't sell my samples...these are just for me.

If you want to read or see more about how these were made here are the links for each of the ideas above.

1. Birds in copper.

2. Major MET painting.

3. Vintage Santa card.

4. 3 Wise men cards.

The Toronto Star had a very interesting article this week about Canadians and holiday greeting cards. It turns out 8% of us recycle our cards in some way! I am surprised it is even that high...but sure wish it could be higher!

December Birthday Wishes

2011-12-08T06:54:00.001-05:00

This is my special post for The Crafters's Companion blog this week.

I don't know about you but I have lots of December birthday greetings to send. I think December babies get a little lost in the holiday season....so I always make sure to send friends celebrating a birthday this month both a birthday and a Christmas card. These two cards feature fabulous art I downloaded from my Popcorn the Bear Birthday CD.

I really need you to see these cards lying down. They are really three dimensional.

This is what my computer screen looked like when I was browsing through the Popcorn CD. These two sheets are favorites. I love the bright colours.

One of the cards I made is a classic pyrimage and the second is a pyrimage twister. I like to build these 3D images up with dimensional glue.

One card is a gate fold which I made in seconds on my Ultimate (no measuring required)!

The twister card needs a little extra thought as you build up the layers. By using glue I have the opportunity to move things into place like I did with layer two...which was askew....

The classic pyrimage turned out beautiful! I glued some real ribbons over the printed ones to add one more layer.

December friends...cards are on there way!

The Cardboard Tree

2011-12-06T09:44:00.000-05:00

My paper tree is up in the studio!

It is lined with Italian paper. I wrote about this tree last year and wanted to let you know that it is still available from Cascade.

Win Something Great and Bead Blogger Links!

2011-12-04T00:46:00.002-05:00

"After all the great design ideas Carmi has done on the John Bead Blog about Dazzle-it Hemp , we thought we’d do a fun contest giving away 3 – 10lb Multi Cards of Hemp , 3- 20lb Multi cards of hemp and the Precision Snipper scissors ! So Like Dazzle-it and comment for your chance to win. Contest ends December 7th."

My Bead Blogger Links:

A Bead A Day Looking for some easy and fun holiday jewelry making projects? Lisa is sharing a few new ones this week. Snowflake earrings, jingle bell rings and simple Swarovski crystal earrings!
About.com Jewelry Making There is still time to make some awesome (and easy) beaded ornaments.
Art Bead Scene Marie Cramp shares some beautiful examples of using the colors from art pendant focals to inspire a necklace design
Beading Arts Cyndi is featuring an entire month of tutorials to get you ready for the holidays!
Carmi's Art/Life World Carmi has a little post about working with hemp cord this week!
Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done! Jean is so excited about the wonderful opportunity to win 150 dollars worth of Nina Designs components! For details, please see her blog!

Resin Week Wrap Up and Crafty Links

2011-12-03T12:42:00.001-05:00

I had such a productive week working for Resin Crafts Blog!

I did a series focused on getting text to float in resin. These were the samples.

1. Book text in resin.

2. Rub-ons in resin.

3. Peel offs in resin.

4. Clear labels in resin.

5. Ink and markers in resin.

My Crafty blogger friends were busy too! Here are my links!

About Family Crafts

Share your homemade gift stories, whether they are good, bad, or ugly! You can also read other people's stories.

Aileen's Musings

Aileen offers you a blinged out Dollar store ornament transformation!

Craft. You.

It's hectic around the holidaze, don't forget to take a moment to enjoy and exhale. Zuzu's Petals.

Craftside-A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world
This week at Craftside we have our Fabulous Book and Yarn Holiday Giveaway-enter 3 ways to get yourself in the running for 10 books and a basket of goodies! There is also a free knit stocking pattern with monograms, a whole bunch of cool gift topper tutorials, how to embellish antique gift tins and a recipe for Asian turkey and rice soup.

Crafty Princess Diaries
Tammy gives you some tips for finding fun and yarn friendly project bags.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Do you craft for profit or would you like to? Here are some tips for reaching your target market.

Margot Potter The Impatient Crafter
Need a craftacular gift for the holiday season? Fret not, Madge has got you covered!

Mixed Media Artist

Handmade decorations and ornaments help to make the season bright!

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery
See how to make a recycled die cut sweater Christmas tree.

I Almost Missed These

2011-12-02T10:51:00.000-05:00

I have a Lee Valley about 45 minutes away from where I live. Lee Valley has the most interesting tools, gardening equipment and so much more. What I love about their retail store is that you write down what you want and someone goes deep into the warehouse to get it for you. Very old school. Anyway, every time I have been there in the last few years I have noticed these super cute and tiny locks. I thought they would be fun on a necklace. This week I finally added them to my list of items. The gentleman serving me took some time getting my order sorted. I noticed him going to the display case and pulling out the sample.

Turns out these have been discontinued. :(

Lucky for me he let me buy the display and added in all the extra keys. :)

Working With Hemp!

2011-12-01T10:44:00.003-05:00

On Sunday I made reference to this being a week where I learn about hemp. I blog for John Bead, Canada's largest bead importer. They are wholesalers, so a lot of what I show/demo in my blog posts are only available to store owners and professional jewelers. I did want to share my ideas with you though! Your local bead store may stock these items as most stores are John Bead customers.

First bracelet - Hemp Hemp Hooray!

Second bracelet - thick and thin hemp.

Third bracelet - hemp and beads!
Fourth bracelet (below) - with needle assistance!

Dusting and Displaying My Josefina Aguilar Collection

2011-11-30T07:58:00.002-05:00

I have a very big project this week. I need to dust and organize all my clay figures before guests arrive this weekend.

This is my Josefina Aguilar collection. I focused mainly on Frida Kahlo figurines.

I love each and every one of them!

"Josefina Aguilar is a Mexican folk artist from Ocatlan, Oaxaca. She is best known for her small clay figurines, called muñecas, an art form she learned from her mother. Aguilar uses red clay to create depictions of everyday village activities, religious and folkloric scenes, famous figures and special Day of the Dead statues. Collectors of her work include Nelson Rockefeller, who discovered her work on a trip to Oaxaca in 1975 as well as repeat visitors to Oaxaca, who come to see her latest work."(from Wikapedia)

I have Diego, Frida's hubby in a few of my pieces.

The colour they add to a room is wonderful!

They'll be in a glass case by the end of the week.

Safe, protected, lit and ready to be admired!

I Really Am One of Santa's Helpers

2011-11-29T10:17:00.002-05:00

Ahh.  The things you learn about a person who blogs. 

This is me....a very long time ago. I had the best part time job on the planet.

For years I tried to figure out how to become an Elf at Toronto's Eaton Centre. Finally, during my first year as a student at Ryerson I walked over to Eatons (now long gone) and waited until personnel would see me. I can't tell you how much fun I had!

The cutie in this picture is my cousin Christina. I was her babysitter. Can you imagine her surprise to discover I worked for Santa too? I remember this moment like it was just yesterday. Christina is now a Mom and I bet she takes her kids for a Santa portrait.

Because I was an Elf I think I will always be an Elf at Christmas.

I may not get to wear the costume but I know there are many ways to make Christmas special for children. Good deeds. Good thoughts.

Have a good day.

Late thought.

I guess I could always apply to be Santa's Wife! Why didn't I think of that sooner? Next year!!!

Crafty Blogger Links

2011-11-28T09:59:00.001-05:00

  Hello Monday!

Craft. You.
This week on Craft. You. we feature craft activist Corrine Bayraktaroglu a.k.a. Jafabrit

Craftside-A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world
This week at Craftside there is a cool video on how to make moldable foam rubber stamps by Traci Bunkers, recipes for sweet potato pie with sesame praline, baked pestototoes (baked pesto potatoes) and being thankful for a cool spin on zipper design.

Crafty Princess Diaries
The Crafty Princess attempts to design her own cotton market bag with mixed results.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Its that time of year to harvest (or buy) hard shelled gourds for crafting. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Margot Potter The Impatient Crafter
Retrofabulous Christmas Craftabration marches on with some upcycled holiday greetings inspired by a 1966 Christmas Helps magazine!

Mixed Media Artist
Cyndi shares the sometimes frustrating process of laying out fabrics for a new quilt design.

Sunday Beading Links

2011-11-27T09:14:00.000-05:00

Another busy week online is over. Looking forward to this week's challenge: working with words and working with hemp!

A Bead A Day
If you have "glitter" experience, Lisa and her readers are looking for guidance when it comes to using glitter in jewelry projects.

About.com Jewelry Making
Combine those jewelry techniques - this time with wire and fused glass.

Art Bead Scene
Gaea's ceramics pair up with Vintaj Brass to create some gorgeous Victorian Christmas jewelry inspiration!

Beading Arts
Beautiful toggle clasps are meant to be seen, not hidden away!

Resin Crafts!
This week Carmi shares some useful information about resin and cold temperatures.

Snap Out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean discovered a very special pendant that expresses the way a person feels in a very special, amazing way!

Feeling Festive!

2011-11-25T12:25:00.001-05:00

This will be the first year in a long time when I can make a few special Christmas cards...just for the joy of making them. I am not in the One of A Kind show this year and ordinarily I would have made hundreds of cards this month.

This cute little card uses die cuts from a Crafter's Companion Humphrey decoupage sheet.

I love gluing all the layers in place.

I know just who this card is for!

Popcorn The Bear - The Good Life Card Set

2011-11-24T01:01:00.001-05:00

Good day to everyone and Happy Thanksgiving if you are reading this post on November 24. This is another fun card making idea featuring Popcorn the Bear for the Crafters Companion Blog.

These decoupage or 3D sets are part of Popcorn's birthday CD. The Birthday Collection CD is themed around parties and gift giving, making it perfect for creating charming birthday cards, or cards for any celebration. An excited Popcorn is pictured with balloons and gifts as he prepares for a magical bash with his best friend Souffle.

And if you go the website right now you'll see that this amazing collection is on sale!

I selected these two sheets and printed them onto white card stock because it seemed to me that I could have a front and a back of the bear for my special aperture card.

Here is the 3D bear from the front.

And here he is in 3D inside the card!

I made the two other bears from the printed sheets as well! Here is a birthday card.

And here is one perfect for today. The Good Life.

I hope you are having one too!

The Mermaid In The Studio

2011-11-22T10:14:00.000-05:00

 I have been wanting a mermaid for a while now.  I found this one in Florida and I love her!  She is the first thing I am hanging in my new studio.

Here are my happy crafty links!

About Family Crafts
Looking for some ways to dress up your Thanksgiving dinner table? Check out these creative ideas.

Aileen’s Musings
Aileen show’s you how to make a Sparkle Berry necklace. It’s a perfect Christmas gift giving project!

Carmi’s Art/Life World
Carmi shares a little post about blogging for other companies.

Craft Buds
Paper-piecing gives you a precise look to your quilt designs, and opens up endless possibilities. Check out the modern paper-pieced “Noel” quilt block tutorial, part of the 12 Days of Christmas Sampler Quilt Along.

Craft. You.
TV Producer and Artist Avelino Pombo shares his recipe for success!

Craftside-A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world
This week at Craftside there is a chance to win a copy of the book Jewelry Lab along with a tutorial on how to make trapped felt and fabric jewelry, how to get started drawing, eye-candy with a good creative quote, and a recipe for slow cooker lasagna.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Come see The Artful Crafter’s annual Thanksgiving Day Parade of crafts!

Margot Potter The Impatient Crafter
Madge finally whips her studio into shape!

Mixed Media Artist
Cyndi shares some tips for salt printing, sun printing, and playing with intensity on your hand painted fabrics.

Sunday Beading Links

2011-11-20T14:29:00.001-05:00

A Bead A Day
Enjoying the creative process can sometimes be more important than the perfect finished product! Lisa finds that out while having fun with glitter!

About.com Jewelry Making
Here are some tips and design ideas for picking the right bracelet for the right person.

Art Bead Scene
Heather offers a free project: a quick and simple nest necklace that uses wire to elegantly frame an art bead

Beading Arts
Bead a continuous loop necklace for a unique eyeglass holder!

Beads & Books
Join Michelle's last beading challenge for 2011 with a winter-themed kit featuring handmade porcelain beads by Chinook Jewelry, Czech glass, pearls, and ribbon!

Resin Crafts!
A brand new resin has been created for jewelers and launched on the Resin Crafts blog this week!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean reviews the fabulous book, Sharilyn Miller's Arty Jewelry III! Is Sharilyn great, or what?

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Andrew muses on the importance of having time to think and "tinker."

Busy For Others!

2011-11-18T10:57:00.000-05:00

My little blog is not getting as much attention as it used to.

I have been very busy this fall blogging for companies I love.

This was a particularly busy week for me as I was thrilled to launch a brand new resin on Resin Crafts Blog and a whole new line of craft wire on The John Bead Blog. I hope you get a chance to see some of those posts and tutorials.

Resin Crafts Blog linked here.

John Bead Blog linked here.

Crafter's Companion Blog linked here.

An Artist Seeks Support

2011-11-17T11:02:00.000-05:00

I just have to share this fundraiser with you.

If you have a minute to just watch the trailer you'll be so impressed by this illustrators work.

Jewelry Resin Launch!

2011-11-15T09:28:00.001-05:00

I am pleased as punch to show you some of my samples using the brand new resin created by Environmental Technology Inc. (ETI) for jewelers! I made the announcement on Resin Crafts blog today!

Sunday Beading Links

2011-11-13T09:34:00.003-05:00

After a few days at the beach I had enough great ideas for a week of posts on Resin Crafts Blog!

Art Bead Scene
Art Bead Scene announces its annual Holiday Ornament Blog Hop!

About.com Jewelry Making
Bravo has a new TV show that uses Project Runway as a template but the designers are making accessories instead of clothing. What are your thoughts about this new show?

Beading Arts
Jewelry designer Tammy Powley shares some of her expertise for creating unique bead strung jewelry!

Beads & Books
Michelle shares upcoming deadlines for beading & jewelry making contests and challenges.

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Cindy is off her loom this week! Come see her new RAW book!

Earthenwood Studio Chronicles
Melanie mourns the passing of a furry friend by making a pair of special cuff bracelets to honor her memory

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean's famous friend, the Great Margot Potter, has some wonderful news! Read all about it on Jean's blog!

Humphrey's Corner Christmas Collection

2011-11-10T04:52:00.001-05:00

Hello friends! This is my post for the Crafter's Companion blog with a new card featuring the world's cutest elephant!

This is the advance set of rubber images I used for this 3D card. It appealed to me because I always have bird feeders out for the winter.

I tested out my new stamps. What a pleasure it is to use a Crafter's Companion stamp that is already mounted onto thick foam.

I have an AccuCut machine. I used it to cut my 3d card.

Even though my card could be for any occasion, with Christmas just around the corner I did opt to make my card body festive.

I used Spectrum Noir pens to colour my image. We are all raving about these markers! They work beautifully.

I glued my 3d card together and added my bird feeder scene.

If you saw this card close up you would notice that I added glitter glue. Spectrum Noir markers are alcohol-based, acid-free and fast drying, which means they won't bleed. This is great when you are adding wet glitter glue and no longer need to worry about the colours bleeding.

I'm Teaching At The Craft and Hobby Show In January 2012

2011-11-08T10:04:00.001-05:00

Crafting Embellishments with Jewelry Resin and ETI

Sunday, January 29, 2012
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Monday, January 30, 2012
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Difficulty: Intermediate
Supplies Needed: None

Magazines and crafty websites are highlighting resin as the art medium to try. Environmental Technology Inc. (ETI) is the company that created the craft resin market with the release of Envirotex Lite in 1969. We’ll show you how easy it is to create a piece of art that can be worn or used as a paper arts embellishment. We will review techniques for mixing and pouring resin into bezels and bottle caps, which feature papers and other inclusions. Once you learn these techniques for working with resin it will be easy to teach others!

Instructor(s): Carmi Cimicata

Sponsor(s): Environmental Technology Inc.

Link to CHA site is here.

Sunday Beading Links

2011-11-06T22:57:00.000-05:00

A Bead A Day
If you like vintage beads, you will LOVE this giveaway! Follow the link over on Lisa's post and enter to win a $100 gift certificate for BEADS!

About.com Jewelry Making
Make a fall patch of pumpkin beads using polymer clay.

Art Bead Scene
The November Monthly Challenge is announced, revealing a historical painting of a beautiful woman in autumn tones

Beading Arts
Cyndi is featuring innovative stringing techniques all month on Beading Arts! Come join in the fun :-)

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
This week's Minding the Business is about taking care of you.

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean re-reviews a book by Maggie Meister she finds particularly outstanding

Taking a Wee Break

2011-10-31T05:51:00.002-04:00

Back

week

friends!

Sunday Beading Links

2011-10-30T15:18:00.000-04:00

I had a busy week on Resin Crafts blog! See my link below!

A Bead A Day
Are you sharing your talents with others? Lisa shares her recent experience teaching a group of friends a simple, but rewarding project.   About.com Jewelry Making
Break into glass jewelry making with these tutorials and techniques.   Art Bead Scene
Heather helps us look ahead to the holiday season with some great inspiration for seasonal jewelry   Beading Arts
Polymer clay + greeting cards = a fun mixed media necklace!   Beads & Books
How long does it really take you to make a piece of jewelry? Michelle shares the long process behind a simple pair of earrings.   Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi has a cute fabric brooch idea for Halloween.   Cindy Gimbrone Beads
This week's Tuesday Tangle features handmade earrings of metal clay and wire.   Resin Crafts!
This week we have a nice series showing you how to use an ice tray to make fun skull and bone cast pieces.

Snap out of it,Jean! There's beading to be done!
Wonderful, really exciting giveaway from Beaducation! Read all about it and sign up on Jean's blog!

Saturday Crafty Links

2011-10-29T21:11:00.000-04:00

Aileen's Musings Hard to believe but Thanksgiving is just around the corner! Aileen is gearing up by offering you a freebie pumpkin biscotti recipe card and a pumpkin label for you to download and print for your own use.
Carmi's Art/Life World Carmi creates one special Christmas card using rubber stamps and paint.

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Cindy and her blue fingers review The Handbook of Metal Clay.

Craftside-A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world
This week at Craftside there are tutorials on how to needle felt a bat and a pumpkin with a cute mouse, an early recycled sweater Christmas tree designed with the new Sizzix die, a chance to win a copy of How to Draw Steampunk, how to build garden row covers, a reportage video and a recipe for a fast fruity skillet cake.

Crafty Princess Diaries
Combine some basic crochet skills with soap collecting for this charity donation idea.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Rather than stashing your moma's jewelry away to tarnish and gather dust, combine some of your favorite pieces into a M.O.M.s (Memories of Mom) necklace.

Mixed Media Artist
Cyndi's hand stitched silk top quilt is all finished! Whew!!

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery

See how to make a secret window in a glitter decoupaged book with a Fiskars Everywere Punch.

Regrets for One of A Kind

2011-10-28T08:52:00.000-04:00

Hello friends.

I have made a decision not to have a booth at this year's Christmas One of A Kind show.

Our household move and my studio move took longer than I had planned and I don't feel as prepared as I would like to be. Regretfully I have canceled my booth. I do plan to go to the show and shop though!It really is a "not to be missed" annual event.

Carmi

New Post For Crafters Companion Today!

2011-10-27T07:03:00.007-04:00

This is my post on the Crafter's Companion Blog featuring Sheena Paint Fusion Tree stamps. This is a new set that Crafter's Companion is launching this month.

The stamp set features branches, trees and pine cones.

I wanted to paint one special tree. I stamped the tree on thick watercolour paper with black ink.

Using the inked lines as my starting point I then painted all the branches from top to bottom. I was quite pleased with my tree. Van Gogh I am not...but when you want to make a card for a special person hand-painting it shows that you care!

I hand tore my edges and then sewed the tree painting to some Christmas paper.

Then, like all Christmas trees, I added a few decorations! This will be a card for a special friend!

Halloween Pin Repost

2011-10-26T09:08:00.001-04:00

Somewhere in my closet is a Halloween sweater. When I used to head to an office everyday I would often purchase fun sweaters to wear around the holidays.

If you wear a fun sweater at home and no one sees it, is it really fun?

Or are you spending too much time alone?

I do go trick or treating with my niece and nephew. I usually have to wear a coat, so this year I decided to make myself something cool that the kids would actually see.

I have had this fabulous Day of the Dead fabric in my stash since last October. Aren't the skeletons fantastic? I also came across this African themed fabric looking for the skeletons and decided to pull it out as well.
I cut out one of the skeletons and sewed it to some blue felt.

It still felt a little too light, so I sewed a second layer of black felt to give it a little more weight. I cut out the elephant and sewed it to some felt too!
I had planned to make some beaded arms and legs when I remembered the skeleton ornament I also bought last year. This metal skeleton was bigger than the fabric one I cut, but I decided to see if I could just use portions of the metal to add as my appendages.

The arms and legs looked perfect! At this point I flipped my elephant and skeleton over so I could sew on a pin back. Since the needle and thread were out.....I figured I should just sew on some beads now. Halloween is all about over embellishment!
Voila! One beaded fabric skeleton pin!

I love my little elephant too! He'll go on my jean jacket.

Sunday Beading Links

2011-10-23T10:16:00.000-04:00

Art Bead Scene
Jennifer shares a free tutorial on making adorable bead zipper pulls, perfect to spruce up a fall jacket!

About.com Jewelry Making
You will fall in love with this new necklace tutorial, or at the very least follow your heart.

The Bead Dreamer
Charlene reviews the book Color, Texture and Casting for Jewelers

Beading Arts
Cyndi explains how to turn a cabochon into a simple bead embroidered pendant!

Earthenwood Studio Chronicles
Melanie shows off her holiday packaging and questions photography in another Etsy Boot Camp post

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean reviews the beautiful new book by Heather Powers, Jewelry Designs from Nature

Beads & Books
See the fun earrings Michelle made with sari ribbon and get inspired to work with this popular material.

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Cindy's back from her class with Hadar Jacobson. Take a look at the mokume gane pieces she made from metal clay.

One of A Kind Time!

2011-10-21T02:16:00.003-04:00

It is almost that time of the year and I have a coupon linked here!

I have a booth for the first five days of the show: November 24 - 28

Booth R-23

Working On Resin Crafts Blog

2011-10-20T08:36:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone! I didn't want you to miss this fun new project!

The Magazine Move

2011-10-18T22:54:00.000-04:00

I have been moving my magazine collection.

I am too embarrrassed to admit how many I have...they weigh a ton.

Literally.

I think I have a ton of magazines.

I am carrying several bags of them a day from the old house to the new one. I tried boxing them up....but the box was too heavy to lift off the floor....and now I have a wee bit of a sore back.

I didn't let the movers take them hoping that I would learn my lesson the hard way. No more magazines unless they have something extra special in them.

Martha Stewart.

I hope you appreciate my loyalty.

Sunday Beading Links

2011-10-16T07:53:00.000-04:00

I always wondered how 50's women packed for long trip

...who knew hoops could pack flat.

Hope you have time to enjoy my Sunday Bead Blogger links.

A Bead A Day
Have you ever made jewelry in the morning before work? Lisa's looking for your early morning 5 minute projects.

About.com Jewelry Making
October's jewelry designer interview includes some interesting ideas from Lorelei Eurto.

Art Bead Scene
Heather shares a free project that tells a little story of her recent move back to Michigan

Beading Arts
A bit of silver leaf, a bit of acrylic paint, and some polymer clay...beautiful results!

Carmi's Art/Life World
A little Apoxie Clay goes a long way when you have time to play in the studio.

Earthenwood Studio Chronicles
Melanie shares another week of Etsy Boot Camp goals

Resin Crafts!
This week Carmi demos several layers of resin in a small tin.

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean reminisces about the lovely book which she and Melanie of Earthenwood were in. She used Melanie's knockout components and they look just as fab today as they did then!

The Bead Dreamer

Charlene shares how life seems to be crowding out jewelry making! Sometimes that's just how it is...

Me, The Antique Store and the Cat

2011-10-15T14:51:00.003-04:00

I have driven by this antique store so many time that I decided to just stop and go in.

I believe this cat is the store owner.

It is cold, windy and drizzly in my part of the world. Bundle up and enjoy my Saturday beading links.

About Family Crafts
Lookinng for a fun Halloween gift for your neighbors? Check out these fun ideas that will have you ringing the door bell and running!

Aileen's Musings
Aileen shares a couple of holiday Artist Trading Block's she created for a swap. Don't know what an ATB is stop by and check them out.

Carmi's Art/Life World
A sweet pop out card featuring a rubber stamp launch from the Crafter's Companion is this weeks special post.

Craft Buds
Pick up some free Halloween printables at Craft Buds, including subway art and a cut-and-assemble Halloween banner for your mantle. While you're there, you can look for the easy fabric pumpkins tutorial, and get your home ready for fall!

Craftside- A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world
This week at Craftside there is a chance to win a copy of the book The Art of Vintage Journaling and Collage with a tutorial on how to make a rock collage paperweight, a link to enter to win 12 design books along with quotes and eye-candy from Quilt Hall of Fame inductee Nancy Crow and the book Design Matters.

Crafty Princess Diaries
Tammy shows the results of doubling up on yarn to make a loom hat using school colors.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Here is a quick and easy tutorial for making vintage-look bottle vases.

Lindsay Sews
Modern quilters unite to host the 12 Days of Christmas Sample Quilt Along. Each block will be different, and with only two blocks per week for 6 weeks, it's easy to join in! Get your fabric ready, because it kicks off in two weeks.

Mixed Media Artist
Piecing the top of a hand-painted silk quilt is like doing a giant puzzle!

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery
Free crochet tiny ghost pattern.

Pop Out Card For Crafters Companion Today

2011-10-13T08:18:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone! This is my post demoing my favorite little elephants for the Crafter's Companion blog today.

I made this pop out card to celebrate the launch of these new rubber stamps.

The pop out card was easy to create using my Ultimate. I scored two cards in order to make a front and inside for the card.

The score lines make it so easy to create crisp professional folds.

I also scored the half heart shape.

After cutting out the heart line I had a heart pop out shape!

I assembled the card and added some paper from the Fairyopolis paper pad. The theme of October and the seasons changing was what I was hoping to showcase.

After the card was assembled I also added this string in order to dangle my rubber stamped image.

And isn't this rubber stamp set the cutest?

I have the "Hugs for you" set. I stamped it on white card stock so it would dangle properly.

The Crafters Companion Spectrum Noir markers are what I used to colour my image. I hope they come to North America soon! They are amazing to colour with.

Here are my elephants. Happily snug as two bugs in this heart pop out.

Humphrey in The Studio

2011-10-12T09:35:00.000-04:00

I am having a great time making cards from the Humphrey's Corner CD!

Tomorrow I'll show you a tutorial featuring the launch of a new Humphrey rubber stamp!

Getting Back To Normal!

2011-10-11T09:22:00.000-04:00

The studio move is almost done. I have almost figured out where everything will go. It will take me longer to make anything for a while as I start to remember where everything is placed. This weekend I finished a necklace that was started at the old house, packed up, moved here and I remembered where it was!

These clay faces were made with Apoxie Clay. I made a lot of samples with this product over the summer in preparation for an appearance on Jewel School. Whenever I had any left over clay I popped it into my face mold.

I noticed the faces were almost an inch wide. Perfect for the bezels I love. I used a little more clay to set them into the bezel.

There was still some bezel showing. I decided to add a little to the edging to make the faces wider.

Then I covered everything with Gilders Paste.

A few bits of bling seemed to be needed.

My finished necklace makes me smile.

Cricut Cartridge Give-A-Way Winner

2011-10-10T09:30:00.000-04:00

Congratulations Jennifer! Email me a mailing address and I'll get this right out to you!

carmimail@aol.com

Jennifer Pearson Vanier said...

Oh,my, this is wonderful!!! Do count me in. And thank you for such a wonderful giveaway for us Canadians. I see so many great giveaways but they rarely cross the border.

Sunday Beading Links

2011-10-09T15:59:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite Paris shop windows.
Enjoy my bead blogger links for this week! A Bead A Day
Day of the dead celebratory beads! Do you find these cute scary, scary cute or just plain cute?    Art Bead Scene
Erin at Art Bead Scene has compiled a gorgeous set of woodland themed Etsy treasuries to celebrate this month's art challenge   Beading Arts
Cyndi really enjoyed making her challenge piece for Michelle Mach's "Very Vintage Challenge"!   Beads & Books
Come see 30+ amazing fall-inspired designs made with the same kit materials!    Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Running a small business can sometimes be about the smallest words.    Earthenwood Studio Chronicles
Melanie offers a new bunny pendant for sale with proceeds going to help Nancy Schindler from Round Rabit, who lost her studio in a flood in September   Resin Crafts!
Carmi creates miniature water pitchers with new molds!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean makes some adorable pendant and earring sets with the help of her friend Rose and help from Artbeads.com as well!

Happy Long Weekend!

2011-10-09T08:36:00.000-04:00

There sure are alot of great things to eat Thanksgiving weekend!

Enjoy your day wherever you are!

Aileen's Musings

This week Aileen shows you how to make a frightful Halloween mail art tin.

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi has a cricut cartridge give-a-way this week!

Craftside- A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world
This week at Craftside there is a crochet cone flower granny square pattern, how to make a mood board and chance to win a copy of the book One Drawing a Day that it's from and a recipe for slow cooker vegan pizza.

Crafty Princess Diaries
Tammy takes a look at a crochet book that promises simple projects.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Did you know that you can recycle greeting cards into cute little gift boxes?

Mixed Media Artist
Cyndi messes around with the layout for a new quilt made from hand-painted silks.

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery

How to make a recycled plastic milk jug Halloween skeleton.

I LOVE THE FALL!

2011-10-07T10:44:00.000-04:00

This is my favorite time of the year. I see nature in action everywhere.

Cricut Cartridge Give-A-Way For North America

2011-10-05T10:40:00.001-04:00

Hello friends,

I have another day scheduled on The Shopping Channel tomorrow.

It sure has been a busy fall. I have some super specials with 3 Birds products. The Shopping Channel does not ship to the USA so I thought I would offer a special treat this week. This is a very special Cricut cartridge: Straight from the Nest - designed by 3 Birds! If you would like to win it, please leave me a comment and I'll do the draw for it this Monday (Canada's Thanksgiving.)
This give-a-way is only open to North Americans.

Attention Magazine Lovers!

2011-10-03T10:24:00.001-04:00

Greetings magazine lovers, philanthropists and benefactors -

It is open season for magazine sales. This year with two kids (my niece and nephew) competing for cash and prizes we really need your help. Stella and Henry have decided to work together, pooling sales with their eye on the Grand Prize: an iPod Touch.

The target: 75 subscriptions sold = iPod glory. And a pair of happy kids*

1. Order online on Monday and it counts as DOUBLE POINTS (up to a maximum of 10 orders), which effectively reduces the sales target from 75 to 55. But don’t quote my math.

2. Go to www.QSP.ca and quote group number 16452.
Student is STELLA CIMICATA
and the teacher is MISS SILLA, GRADE 3.

3. If you know anyone who might be interested in perusing the magazine selection please forward this email. If you know a Software Company, Doctor, Dentist, Dog Groomer, Vet, or Hair Salon who orders magazines for their wait room and might be interested in discount subscriptions please consider forwarding the QSP details.

With thanks,

Nicole, Stella, Henry

Our Lady Of Peace CS

*And a happy school as well. Last year’s proceeds ($35,000!) funded the installation of an outdoor classroom beneath the shady trees, new sports uniforms, and six classroom Smartboards. Worthy stuff.

Give-A-Way Kisses!

2011-10-02T10:24:00.001-04:00

Win the new Sealed with a little Kiss stamp collection!

Crafter's Companion has an amazing giveaway on their news blog.

They are giving away all six sets of their new Sealed with a Kiss collection.

You can check out how to win at http://crafterscompanion.blogspot.com/2011/09/swalk-copic-coloring-tutorial-and.html.

Humphrey Wedding Frame Card

2011-10-01T10:02:00.001-04:00

These cards could not be cuter! I am having a wonderful time crafting them!

It is a working Saturday for me.

Enjoy my Crafty Blogger inks!

About Family Crafts
Do you have a fun and fabulous collage idea? Share it!

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi had new 3D rose cards to showcase this week.

Craftside- A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world
This week at Craftside there is a chance to win a copy of Modern Calligraphy and Hand Lettering by Lisa Engelbrecht, two ways to position a patch pocket, a cool finger print poster, an eye dropper drawing tutorial and how to nalbind from the book Knitting Around the World.

Crafty Princess Diaries
Don't be a wash out! Learn to make a simple crochet wash cloth with this free pattern you can download as a pdf file.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Eileen had fun learning how to create fine art with Photoshop.

Mixed Media Artist

Cyndi's got a rack full of freshly painted fabrics, and she knows how to use 'em!

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery

How to make a recycled #6 plastic shrunk skull necklace.

Happy Humphrey 3D Card

2011-09-30T10:57:00.000-04:00

The frame cards from the Humphrey's Corner CD are so much fun to build!

You print all the projects on your home printer.

I am waiting for a delivery this morning so rather than start a project that will be interrupted I thought I might make this card instead.

Humphrey is a 3D image that you need to cut out separately.

The final frame card was very nice.

I added a little gold trim to the edge and a metal sentiment.

Have a great day friends!

Three Dimentional Cards - I Love Them!

2011-09-28T07:51:00.001-04:00

In the spring I attended a special gathering of the Canadian Craft and Hobby Association. One of the companies participating was Ecstacy Crafts and they were very generous with a give-a-way for each participant.

These decoupage sheets have been calling to me. Today I thought I would "break in" the new studio by trying to complete a project.

I gathered my card making supplies and popped out the elements needed to make two decoupaged roses.

These turned out so beautifully.

I am so glad I started a new project!

Taking a Minute To Really Look

2011-09-27T09:55:00.001-04:00

Life has been so hectic. I hate to miss the entire fall being so focused on our move. A day or two ago I took this picture. I wanted to capture the purple against the greenery.

When I took a moment to review the photo I noticed that two of the leaves were holding a small collection of water.

And I didn't even see this bee moving into the frame.

This week I will take some time to really look at the fall foliage.

The Moving Finds

2011-09-25T22:06:00.000-04:00

My studio has moved and everything is almost unpacked. It has been a hectic summer. I was so worried that I would lose something. Happily, I found this gift from a friend. I put it somewhere "safe" after Christmas because it was so delicate. I found it again during the move...safely tucked into a vintage findings box.

I found so many interesting things during the pack up and unpack that I'll be busy creating for months!Hope you had a great weekend.Carmi A Bead A Day
Have you ever made a zipper pull to match a pair of earrings? Check out this first attempt!   About.com Jewelry Making
Jazz up your eyes with this beaded eye glass chain tutorial.   Art Bead Scene
Shannon shares some tricks of the trade regarding jewelry metal punches.   Beading Arts
What do you do with copper tube beads? Make a fabulous necklace, of course!   Cindy Gimbrone Beads
This week's Tuesday Tangle is about experimentation and trying new designs.   Earthenwood Studio Chronicles
Melanie gets ready to join up in the Etsy Boot Camp and is looking for more recruits!   Resin Crafts!
Resin crafts has a few tips about resin and polymer clay.   Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean reviews (and holds a giveaway!) of Jamie Cloud Eakin's fabulous new bead embroidery technique book, coming out in early October! And posts a Blythe doll photo, of course.

The Bead Dreamer
Love miniatures? Charlene takes miniature book components, paper, ribbon and a few beads and makes a mini book necklace. You can too!

Back Soon

2011-09-23T09:24:00.000-04:00

After spending two days at The Shopping Channel I am excited to be heading to our new house to unpack my studio! I hope to have a working space again by Monday!

The Best Card Making Deal

2011-09-21T08:29:00.000-04:00

I am back on The Shopping Channel tonight in the 11pm hour with Cricut.

Then back tomorrow (Thursday at 9am, 1pm and 6pm-but you know things can change)

I am presenting several items but I wanted to draw your attention to the Overstuffed Card Making Kit.

This was created just for Canada and it is now less than half price!

Our Price:                                                              $39.95                                                      New Price                             $19.88                         

Your Savings: $20.07

I have a link here.

Seriously, this is an ideal gift. It makes 75+ cards.

The 75 cards I made are below!

Preparing For The Shopping Channel This Wednesday and Thursday

2011-09-20T07:19:00.000-04:00

I'll be back on The Shopping Channel Wednesday night at 11pm and Thursday at 9am, 1pm, and 6pm.

We have very limited Fairyopolis stock left!

This is a one time special package that is very close to sell out!

I Think I Need a Plastic Bin Support Group

2011-09-19T19:01:00.001-04:00

Well. I have to admit the problem now.

I love plastic drawer bins. I buy them and happily fill them.

It's how I keep everything so organized and neat.

Now that we are moving my husband has been quietly and subtly saying I sure do have a lot of stuff.

Not that he's complaining.

I think he is trying to get me to see a problem.

Well here it is.

I denied I had too many bins.

They were spread throughout three different rooms. I never saw them gathered in one place.

OMG.

I wish to thank the four men who moved them today.

Someone is going to turn me into the Hoarders producer.

I swear I am downsizing.

My New View

2011-09-18T09:12:00.003-04:00

The studio is packed up.

The movers arrive in the morning.

This will be my new view. We are moving to the countryside! Can't wait to unpack the studio and start creating in my new space!

Enjoy my Sunday bead blogger links.

Earthenwood Studio Chronicles

Melanie ponders if her new cat pendant design is seasonally spooky or a year round treat

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
I love B'Sue Boutiques and Brenda Sue is having a blog hop in October! Come read about it!

About.com Jewelry Making
Tammy discusses and provides a tutorial about the dirty side of metal jewelry.

Beading Arts
Cyndi explains how to add a wonderful blue-green patina to copper beads.

The Bead Dreamer
Charlene reviews a book that blends beading and jazz - Bead Riffs

The Studio Move

2011-09-17T17:13:00.003-04:00

The whole studio is almost packed up for the movers Monday!
I'll be back to regular posting soon!

Please enjoy my crafty blogger links!

About Family Crafts
Check out all of these wonderful craft products that help raise money for breast cancer awareness!

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi falls in love with an illustrated 550 page children's novel.

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Bead Vegan is an occasional post where Cindy the beadmaker posts some of her vegan recipes. This one is inspired by the flavors of India.

Craft Buds
It's all about sewing for little guys this week on Craft Buds, where we've interviewed the authors of the new book "Sewing for Boys" and gave one of their projects a test drive. Also check out the roundup of sewing apps for iPhone and Android users.

Craftside-A behind-the-scenes peek at a crafty world
This week at Craftside there is a chance to win a copy of the new book Unstuck by Noah Scalin with a fun eyeball photography idea, stylin' earplug earrings, and how to freeze eggs.

Crafty Princess Diaries
Tammy shows how she made a cat tube using a knitting loom.

Cross Stitch at Craft Gossip
Connie's tracked down a favorite designer just in time for Halloween cuteness!

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
How to make an easy candle decoration in a jiffy.

Mixed Media Artist
Have you ever thought of visiting the automotive store to pick up collage supplies?
Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery
How to make a recycled book page pumpkin Halloween card.

Resin Mosaic Bezel Series

2011-09-15T22:28:00.002-04:00

This week on Resin Crafts Blog I have featured a daily idea for a mosaic in bezel.

One - Mosaic with Resin Beads and EasyCast

Two - Glass Beads and EasyCast

Three - Glass Leaf Beads and EasyCast

Four - Mosaics With Paper and EasyCast

Five - Mosaic With Square Beads and EasyCast

The Big Move

2011-09-14T19:01:00.000-04:00

This has been a year preparing for our big move. We found our new house and have just about completed the renovations. Our current house is sold and over the next few weeks we will happily move to our new home.

We are moving to the country.

When we moved to our current house twelve years ago it was "the country." Now, it is a fully developed small city and the growth all around us has been extreme.

Our new home backs onto a farm. Our view is big and wide. We see nothing but fields of corn.

Believe it or not. This was our first night in the new house. The sunset was incredible.

I feel like the gods have smiled on our decision.

Blogging may be sporadic for a while!

The Invention of Hugo Cabret - The Best Book I Have Read This Year

2011-09-13T08:08:00.001-04:00

There will be a special space in my library reserved for this book.

550 pages and more than half are stunning illustrations like these.

I could not put the book down.

This is the first time in a long time when I can say time really stood still while I read. I was lost in the story.

I will read it again because I read and looked very quickly wanting desperately to know how it ends. The book has already been turned into a movie that will be released this fall.

I am so glad my husband found this book for me! I stayed up way too late but it was worth it!

From the author Brian Selznick: My new book, The Invention of Hugo Cabret, is a 550 page novel in words and pictures. But unlike most novels, the images in my new book don't just illustrate the story; they help tell it. I've used the lessons I learned from Remy Charlip and other masters of the picture book to create something that is not a exactly a novel, not quite a picture book, not really a graphic novel, or a flip book or a movie, but a combination of all these things.

Here is a link to the Amazon listing.

Inspired By Window Displays

2011-09-12T08:11:00.000-04:00

I love this window.

I took this picture on the street and the sun was really creating a glare. But it is still a great memento. This is a shop in the big antique market north of Paris. I have never gone in...I think the prices would be extremely high...since there are no tags in the window.

My bead blogger friends are also very inspirational! Here are some excellent links for you to enjoy!

A Bead A Day
Have you ever come across an unusual or hard to identify bead? Lisa is looking for help with a mysterious plastic bead.

About.com Jewelrymaking
Fly away with some steampunk inspiration after reading this new pin tutorial.

Beading Arts
Cyndi figures out how to showcase a wonderful lampwork glass pendant and shares the steps with you!

Beads and Books
Michelle creates jewelry with the new Rusty Black metal finish from B'Sue Boutiques.

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Cindy's got some business advice for you - from one threadkiller to another!

Earthenwood Studio Chronicles
Melanie reviews a gorgeous new metalsmithing book called Hot Connections

Resin Crafts
Resin Crafts has a post featuring back to school pencils in resin!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean just can't ever get over the stunning beauty created by her British pal, Emma Ralph! if you don't know about Emma, you have a real treat in store!

The Bead Dreamer
Charlene shows how a little paint and an old book make an excellent prop for jewelry photography.

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Recently, Andrew was interviewed by Kelli Burns of The Hole Bead Shop. Check out the first installment of the interview!

Saturday Crafty Links

2011-09-10T20:52:00.000-04:00

About Family Crafts
This week's craft challenge is all about making apples. Do you have an apple craft to share?

Aileen's Musings
Still in the spirit of getting ready for Christmas gift making, Aileen offers you a faux hand blown glass ornament tutorial that can easily be adapted for other holidays, as well.

Carmi's Art/Life World Carmi shares new Humphrey the Elephant 3D cards.
Cindy Gimbrone Beads Feeling like your craft business isn't taking off like you hoped? You might just be a scrub pine. What's a scrub pine? Come find out on Cindy's blog!

Connie Gee's Designs
Connie's making plans for 2012 - find out what projects she is planning to stitch in the coming year. It's always nice to plan ahead.

Craftside- A behind-the-scenes peek at a crafty world
This week at Craftside there is a chance to win a copy of the new book by Misty Mawn - Unfurling along with doodling tips, a Plaid Craft TV episode that features me and Steve making a Mod Podge bird house wind chime with a recycled sweater flower, some paint mixing tips and a recipe for watermelon granita.

Crafty Princess Diaries
Tammy attempts to teach loom knitting to her college craft club.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Look at Eileen's crafty solution to an accident waiting to happen.

Mixed Media Artist
Cyndi pulls out an older collage to revisit a technique that mixes digital and physical aspects.

Stefanie Girard's Sweater Surgery
How to wind a spool of thread for serging with a Deluxe SideWinder.

3D Humphrey's Corner Cards

2011-09-08T08:07:00.001-04:00

I think I would make 3D cards like this every day if I could.

When Crafter's Companion debuted the Humphrey's Corner Crafting Collection in the UK I could not wait for a North American launch and ordered it online to be shipped to me in Canada. These are just two of the many many paper projects you can print yourself.

This special card reminds me of a fall day.

This card was a favorite because I love the feathered boa!

In person you get to enjoy the numerous layers that make up these cards.

I'll be enjoying this CD for a long time!

Fairyopolis Twister Cards

2011-09-06T07:50:00.000-04:00

Last week on The Shopping Channel I launched Fairyopolis.

This is one of the twister cards I had on set.

Isn't it stunning?

It is artwork I printed myself from the Fairyopolis Papercrafting Collection.

There is so much artwork on these CDs that I could have a blog post a day for a year and still not show you all of it.

Crafty Blogger Links

2011-09-05T18:54:00.000-04:00

Hope all my friends in North America enjoyed their day off!

Aileen’s Musings
Aileen’s gearing up for Christmas already with an altered wooden domino tutorial.

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Cindy is one step ahead when she uses a wire wrapping technique to create a poinsettia ring for the holidays.

Craft Buds
Stop by Craft Buds this September, where they will host craft book giveaways, projects, and more. It’s a party!

Craftside- A behind-the-scenes peek at our crafty world
This week at Craftside there is a chance to win a copy of the book Sewing Vintage Aprons along with a fun recycled shirt/apron tutorial, a bunch of portfolio info, and how to help a dog when it’s overheating, dehydrated, and sunburned and a new free Rockport App.

Eileen - The Artful Crafter
Eileen tries her hand at 3D paper tole. It’s not as difficult as it looks but does require a bit of patience.

Lindsay Sews
The equalizer quilt design is a new project that uses guy-friendly fabrics. It’s a quilt that even he will love.

Mixed Media Artist
Cyndi’s new friend Kerrie, aka Antikva, shares all kinds of tips on working with shrink plastic!

Stefanie Girard’s Sweater Surgery
How to cover an umbrella with recycled lace curtain ruffles.

Sunday Beading Links

2011-09-04T08:49:00.000-04:00

I took this picture in Provence in the spring. This shop window had so many pieces of jewelery but this had to be my favorite. I am inspired to make something huge and chunky!

If you want to be inspired by my bead blogging friends take a little time today to peak at my Sunday links.

About.com Jewelrymaking
When was the last time you visiting the Jewelry Making Forum? That long ago? Well, here is some of what you have been missing.

Beading Arts
Cyndi shares the work of some amazing bead embroidery artists!

Beads and Books
Michelle shares a strategy for improving her Etsy shop photos.

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Cindy shares some ideas to make your metal money stretch.

Earthenwood Studio Chronicles
Melanie unloads a kiln fill of new black and white deigns

Resin Crafts
This week Carmi is making Faux Gems with resin!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean thinks about what it is like to write for Australian Beading Magazine! Many of you have been in her column at this point!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Andrew announces the (SOLD OUT) Reader's Challenge Design Kit for September! Lots of luscious pale purples and lavenders!

Save More Than You Spend!

2011-09-01T21:49:00.007-04:00

Yesterday on The Shopping Channel I presented this Must Have Larger Than Life Paper Stack.

I wanted to make sure as many card makers as possible knew about it because it is the best deal I have showcased.

The reason I love this card stock is that it is super thick...the thickest I have ever used. The paper is 12x 24. There are 36 pieces in the stack...and you get TWO stacks. That's 72 sheets for less than half price. Even I ordered three more sets!

I know how many were left in inventory...so do try and get in on this deal quick!

Original Price: $49.99

New Price $23.88

Your Savings: $26.07

The Shopping Channel Today!

2011-08-31T09:18:00.000-04:00

Last night I had an hour to present some of my favorite crafting tools and products on The Shopping Channel. We debuted the Fairyopolis paper crafting blockbuster kit!

My van was full with everything I needed to bring!

This was my area of the studio!

The 3 Birds products I am showing are now more than half price!

You really must get the "Larger than Life" paper stacks. It is the best value for 12x24 paper I have ever seen...and even I ordered extra today!

I will showcase Fairyopolis today

again at 12:30 and 6:30!

OMG. The Slice is brilliant!

This kit is more than half off. There are only a few left!

Also, there is a super scrap booking deal from Making Memories!

This whole kit is $9.88

The Flower Fairies At The Shopping Channel Tonight!

2011-08-30T08:15:00.000-04:00

Tonight at 11pm I'll get the opportunity to debut the Flower Fairies from The Crafter's Companion on The Shopping Channel. This is just a tiny sample of some of the artwork on the CD collection.

I have made the loveliest samples!

This CD collection is amazing!

TV times: Tuesday at 11pm

Wednesday 12:30, 6:30pm

For USA information go here.