Crafts by Louly

I've moved

2011-07-27T19:49:00.000+01:00

This blog is now closed

please find me here...

Circular Easel Cards

2011-02-25T16:25:00.006Z

Well folks, if you know me you will know that I like to experiment to push ideas a bit further when I find something that I like and I LOVE Easel cards -Karen got me hooked (thanks chuck).

I got myself some round scalloped nestabilities from Charmed Cards and Crafts the other day and you know what, they are perfect for making round easel cards. Take a look at what I came up with..

I did some very fiddly paper piecing here but I think it was worth it because it brings it all together.

Slightly fuzzy side view next:/
Here's another...

Do you like them? They're quite easy to make and to prove it I'm going to do you a video tutorial....just as soon as I buy the camera lol.

Papers used for these two cards;
Basic Grey 6x6 pads -'Max and Whiskers' and 'Marjolaine'

Digital images and papers are all from Charmed Cards and Crafts

Well I've decided to try selling some of my cards on ebay, so I'm off to list these now. If you are interested, here is the link

I'm back!

2011-02-14T07:20:00.000Z

Helloooooooooooo is there anybody here? I bet all my blog fiends have forgotten this Blog...can you believe I haven't posted since September? Well I have moved house in that time so I guess that's a bit of a reason :)
Well I'm back now and soon you'll be sick of me.
Here's a card I made for Dottie'S World ....
I don't have a Valentine's card to show you because I haven't made one (shock horror) my partner and I agreed not to DO Valentines day....I'm just praying he isn't planning on surprising me (eek).

Anyway what I have been making is a thank you card for a very special little girl, I hope she likes it.

Samirah loves the Pixie Chicks so I made her a nice tall easel card with one. I wanted to start experimenting a bit more with easel cards, I really like them and I think their boundries are waiting to be pushed...get ready for the circular easel card....and a video! Yikes I can't believe I just said that!
I'll be back!

DW - Christmas

2010-09-12T07:07:00.001+01:00

Phew Blogger is really playing up tonight! Is anybody else having problems? I lost my post the first time and my last two challenge posts which I sceduled to appear when I was on holiday didn't work :(.
Speaking of my holiday.....I've been in Turkey for two weeks! WOO HOO! It was bloody amazing and I didnt want to come home. All I did most of the time was relax in the sun....after the stress of my marriage break up I really needed it I can tell you! However....I did do a bit of partying .....

I was behind the bar there helping them to mix the cocktails :)

Anyway.....on to the Dottie's World Challenge, our gorgeous Karen has set us a beauty this week, she wants us to get started on our Christmas cards.........yes I did say CHRISTMAS! The only specifications are that we try to go wit um-traditional colours AND use a Charmed download. Here's what I came up with....

I think these colours are a bit different from the 'norm' for Christmas but I think it works, don't you?
This is 'Dreamer' she's a Pixie Chick and you can download her from Charmed Cards and Crafts.

Fancy playing along? Please do, we need more people coming to play, pop over to Dottie's World.

Have a good week xxxxx

Favourites!

2010-08-15T07:48:00.000+01:00

Wow, our wonderful Gunn has set us the fabbiest challenge this week at Dottie's World - she wants us to choose our favourite ever Charmed download! How fun is that! Using your fave image!

This week I want you to take your favourite Charmed One- a new or old and just make a card or project with it. You can do whatever you want, just have fun. But your favourite has to be a CHARMED DOWNLOAD.

So let me see lots of favourites this week, and have fun.
*Gunn*
Well actually, it may be fun, but....for me....kind of impossibe. I drew most of the Charmed digital images and so each and every one holds a special place in my heart - I just can't pick a favourite. So, I decided to choose one of the images I have used the most which must make it somewhere at the top of the list. Here we have 'Holly', named after my lovely daughter ( Mikey is named after my son)

I did some paper piecing to bring the image and the backing paper together. I hope you like it!
Pop on over to Dottie's World to join in the fun or pop on over to the shop to view more of the wonderful Charmed Downloads xx

Dottie's World - Frame it!

2010-08-08T07:58:00.000+01:00

Ooooh I had such fun with this one! It's Karen's challenge this week at Dottie's World, here's what she said;

This week we would like you to frame something on your card. It could be framing an element, an image or indeed the card itself. Along with the frame I would like to see a few dots, how you present them is up to you. Please don't forget the most important part - a Charmed Download, which must feature somewhere on your card :-)

I had a commission to do this week so I combined it with the challenge. I was asked to make a wedding card and for me there was no question which image I should use!....

I used the bride from the Once Upon a Time digital download collection from Charmed Cards and Crafts. I dug out some sequins and glitter to frame her with and I'm really chuffed with the finished result.

I used a sentiment from the Once Upon a Time set inside the card.

The card is quite fragile so I made a box for it.

I decorated it with oodles of flowers.

I hope I have inspired you to play along with this week's challenge at Dottie's World - Don't miss it cos there's a fab prize too!

Manly -With a Twist

2010-08-01T07:31:00.000+01:00

Ohhh our favourite! Crafting for a man! Ok so it's nobodies favourite but these things HAVE to be done so this week at Dottie's World Adele is getting us into action on those masculine projects.

As it happens this challenge came just at the right time for me. I recently moved house and I've been very busy making it livable. I'm proud to say that I've done most things by myself but sometimes men really do come in handy. My dear dear friend has done so much for me around the house, he is my hero and he knows it! He keeps asking when he is going to get his certificate so I thought it was time to make one......no...he deserves two!

The colouring could be better but these certificates are actually quite mini so colouring wasn't an easy task with my copics. It's the first time I've made a black George but I think it suits him!

The images (need I tell!) are from Charmed Cards and Crafts and the challenge is at Dottie's World, please drop by xx

Going to the Movies!

2010-07-25T07:42:00.000+01:00

Hellooooo! Can you tell yet that I am happy? That's because I have six weeks off work! Ok before I get into trouble for showing off I will get to the point.

The lovely Sheila set us a movie challenge for Dottie's world this week.....but guess what I did.....I went and broke my finger at work :) I cant even write so card making was out of the question for this week. But not to worry because I dusted off some oldies again for some inspiration, can you guess the films?

The star of all these cards is George, he's a digital download from Charmed Cards and Crafts.

If you fancy playing along with this challenge please pop on over to Dottie's World

DW Challenge - Summer Feeling

2010-07-18T07:36:00.000+01:00

Good Morning everybody! Here we are it's Sunday again, time is going so fast for me, soon i will finish work for the summer yip yippidy doo!
It is my turn to set the challenge for this week at Dottie's World, here is what I said;

I would like you to use a CHARMED DOWNLOAD to make a summery card - or something else if you prefer! OK so that doesn't sound very challenging.......I would like you to make your summer item DIFFERENT to what you would normally make. Maybe you always make tent fold cards so try a side fold card or something completely different! Maybe you always make big cards so make a teenie weenie one, do you get my drift?
Most importantly, have fun!
Louise xx
Ok, so this is my challenge yes? So I shouldn't have any trouble remembering the main theme right? haha yeah right!
I got a bit carried away with the idea that I had to make something a bit different to my usual 'thing' and I completely forgot I was meant to make it summery! Arrrgh! Anyhow it's too late now so I've added one of my oldies for the summery twist (and its fits the 'different' criteria too)

My children live half of the time with their dad and half of the time with me so they take it in turns using my spare room, not ideal I know but hey that's life. I made this door hanger for their room which is reversible so i just have to switch it depending on the day. I've used the prince and the princess images and sentiments from the new Charmed digi collection 'Once Upon a Time'

Here we have one of my oldies I thought it might help to inspire people to try something different and have some fun. This is also a Charmed digi image (drawn by yours truly)
If you fancy playing along with this challenge pop over to Dotties World - Oh and there is a prize up for grabs!

DW Challenge - Vintage

2010-07-11T07:29:00.000+01:00

Hello Folks,

Hasn't it been a beautiful week! I LOVE IT! It's been very busy at work though, I'll be so glad in two weeks time when I'll have six lovely weeks off.

Today I made my DT card for the Dottie's World challenge. The theme is 'vintage with a summer twist' to be honest I'm not sure if I have achieved either but I had good fun and that's the aim of the game after all! here goes...

I've been itching to use the prince from our new digi collection, do you like him? I think it was a bit of wishful thinking when I drew this one, some day my prince will come...I hope!

DW Challenge Hot it Up!

2010-07-04T07:30:00.000+01:00

Hi Folks!

I'm all excited because the new collection of Charmed digital downloads is almost complete! Karen and I have been working super hard on a fabulous bundle of images and sentiments for you. I couldn't wait to give you a sneaky peek (nor could Karen) so this week Karen and I are giving you a preview on our challenge cards.

To find out more about this week's challenge please pop over to Dottie's World

He is my card....

This is one of several 'panel' style images you will find in the new set. I love these because they can be used in a variety of ways. Here I have used it in the most simple way, the picture forms the card - nothing more- nothing less! but very effective don't you think? I filled in the background colour on the computer before printing it out for a nice even finish then coloured the rest by hand. I finished it off with some gems and glitter, super speedy and ever so priddy! even if I do say so myself ;P

Pop over to Dottie's World to see what the rest of the team came up with and for another preview from the new bundle xx

DW- No Designer Papers

2010-06-20T07:00:00.000+01:00

Our lovely Sheila has set us a challenge at Dottie's World this week and it's a great one! She wants us to make a card without using any designer papers.

Well Charmed Cards and Crafts have just released a new collection called Meet the Martians so it was the ideal opportunity for me to have a play. Here's what I came up with using one of the delightful alien wrinklies...

Look at the cheeky monkey with his love guns! Thank you to Adam for these fabulous drawings. xx

Pop over to Dottie's World and play along.

DW Challenge - Father's Day

2010-06-13T07:35:00.000+01:00

It was my turn to set the Dottie's World challenge this week and it was an easy choice because next week it is Father's Day! I love my daddy so I had heaps of fun with this one......

I enjoyed using Karen's fab Easel card tutorial the other week so I had another go. My dad loves golf so I used the Golfing George Digi Download (from Charmed Cards and Crafts of course) and lots of polystyrene balls.....
Please pop on over to Dottie's World for more details and to see what the rest of the team came up with.

Dottie's World Challenge

2010-06-06T07:39:00.000+01:00

Here I am again with my card for the weekly challenge over at Dottie's World. It was Gunn's turn to set the challenge this week and as always shes come up with a real corker! To find out more please pop over to Dotties World for a look.

Here is what I came up with...

The only absolute rule for the DW challenges is to use a Charmed downloadable image (designed by me! ;)). Here I have used and image from the Sugar n Spice collection, click here to see all our digital downloads.

Here it is with the Boxalope that I made for it. I'm going to give this card to my friend Dawn, for no other reason than to tell her I love her and she is one of my dearest friends ever.

Have a lovely week everybody xxxx

Dottie's World Challenge - Easel Card

2010-05-30T07:02:00.000+01:00

Hello folks,
Week this is the first card I have been able to make in a long time....wow it felt gooood!
I love the challenge we have at Dottie's World this week because it got me trying something new - an easel card. If you haven't had a go you really must try they are super easy and very addictive. There is a link to Karen's fabulous tutorial on Dottie's World, pop over for a look.
Here's what I came up with.....

This little lady is from the Sugar n' Spice digi collection available to download in an instant from Charmed Cards and Crafts. Also at Charmed you will find these fabulous Bo Bunny papers....what are you waiting for?

Thanks a Bunch

2010-05-23T08:52:00.003+01:00

Good morning friends,

I have been away from my Blog for some time due to personal issuses but i am managing to patch my life back together now thank goodness. I sat down to make my Dottie's World challenge card example yesterday but i got a phone call with the most devastating news i think I have ever had. So, here I am with an old card that fits the bill as I am in no state for crafting. Sorry for the depressing post :(

There is a free one off- never seen before digi image on offer for people who play along this week (following the rules) so please get your lovely bums over to Dotties World to check it out.

Dottie's World - Pocket it!

2010-04-18T07:51:00.001+01:00

Hello friends,
It's my turn to set the challenge at Dottie's World this week and I've asked people to make a project that has pockets. Here's what i came up with.....

the little bag was made using a K&Co die cut sheet and I simply made a tag to go into the pocket. I added a band at the back to hold money or a voucher, I'm really pleased with the result.
Pop over to Dottie's World to see what the rest of the team came up with.

Dottie's World Challenge

2010-04-11T07:50:00.000+01:00

Hi Folks!

I'm back from holiday and all refreshed, how is life treating you? Isn't it different what a difference a little sunshine can make!

I come to you this sunny Sunday with my example card for this week's Dottie's World challenge.

Gunn set the challenge this week and she wants us to use the colours Pink, Turquoise and green along with our Charmed download.

Now turquoise is always a funny one to identify, it seems to be a matter of opinion - especially for men...have you noticed that they seem to have some sort of colour blindness going on with blue turquoise and green? !!!

Well I think maybe this week the colour blindness was mine because although the colours looked right when i selected them - now i look at the photo the just don't! My husband came into my work room he looked over my shoulder and said, "What was the colour scheme you had to use? ....blue, purple and green??" Arrrgh!!!!

Ah well, less waffle and more photo......

Hmmmm, see what I mean about the colours? Ah well never mind :)

The papers are from one of my BG pads and the image is one of my earliest digi drawings and it's from the Dottie at Work collection - available from Charmed Cards and Crafts.

Have a great week!

Dottie's World Challenge - Paper Flowers

2010-03-28T07:09:00.000+01:00

Adele has set us a flower-tastic challenge this week; She wants us to use hand made flowers alongside our Charmed downloads, pop over to Dottie's world to find out more.
I fancied a change from card making so I got out my K&Co pad of die cut purses, here's what I came up with.....

I tore my paper flowers from scraps of paper! Simple yet affective! I love this technique. The image - of course is one of our top sellers 'Dreamer' she's one of the Charmed Pixie Chick downloads.

Fancy playing along? Pop over to Dottie's World and check out the inspiration.

Louise xx

Dottie's World Challenge

2010-03-14T07:14:00.001Z

Hello Everyone,

Here I am for my weekly Blog post, I really should do more Blogging, but then, I really should do more crafting too! Well, chastising myself won't help so I will get on with the task at hand - this week's challenge.......

Gunn has given us a recipe....3 flowers, 2 brads, 1 button, 1 charm and a Charmed download. Here's what I came up with ........

I saw this cute card blanks in Hobbycraft, i like the finished look.

The image is a Charmed download and it's from the Sugar and Spice collection.

If you would like to play along pop over to Dottie's World.

Enjoy Mother's day xxx

DW Challenge

2010-03-07T07:51:00.004Z

Hello Folks,
I have harldly done any crafting this week and what I DID do (this card) was fairly rushed do I'm sorry about that. The DW challenge was set by our lovely Adele, here's what she said.....

PASTELS or BRIGHTS!
Make a card or project using a Charmed Download keeping to either VERY pale pastel colours or VERY bright, bold colours. Now if of course you want to make two creations, one of each, that would be fantastic. Perhaps try two versions of the same image.

I went for brights....

It's a blast from the past, this week :)) Super Hero George from the Back 2 Front colection..look at the rear view!

So, fancy joining in? Pop over to Dotties World for some amazing inspiration.

Dottie's World - De-Stressing

2010-02-28T07:28:00.000Z

Nicole has set us a fabulous Challenge at Dottie's World this week - pop over there to find out more.

I seriously NEEDED to de-stress after the week I've had and making this card really did the trick.....

I hope you all have a really fabulous Sunday xxxx

It's a Small Thing

2010-02-20T07:17:00.000Z

Woo hoo!

My turn again to set the challenge at Dottie's World.....I want folks to make something tiny - pop over to Dottie's World to find out more.

I enjoyed this one, It's so much fun working on a small scale and you also get quick results! That suits me fine. It's also a great way to use up your scraps.

This challenge perfectly demonstrates the versatility of digital downloads, you can have them teenie weenie or big and bold...what more could you ask for. Here's what i came up with....

You can see the scale of this from the £2 coin next to it. what fun!!!! I could get hooked on these.

If you would like to play along pop over to Dottie's World

If you would like to view more of the digi images pop over to Charmed Cards and Crafts, you won't be disappointed. :)

DW Challenge - Hearts

2010-02-14T17:43:00.004Z

Happy day of Lurrrve!

I hope you all got lots of cards and pressies, I'm expecting all my cards will come tomorrow as there is no post on Sundays......yeah.... fat chance hahahaha.

The theme at Dottie's World this week is hearts and doodling, I had fun with this one...

Sorry about the crappy writing on the front, I really did mess it up lol

The image is from one of the Pixie Chicks download collections available from Charmed Cards and Crafts.

Pop over to Dottie's World to play along.

Dottie's World Challenge

2010-01-31T07:31:00.000Z

This one was such fun! This week Adele wants us to use acetate with our Charmed Download -pop to Dottie's World for more details.

I think Acetate should be utilised so much more than it is on greetings cards because the results are faberoonie! Here's what I came up with ......

I liked how the acetate enabled me to get the legs dangling without them hanging loose.

Why don't you pop over to Dottie's World and play along I'll like to see what you come up with for this fab challenge.

Sketch and Stash Challenge

2010-01-30T17:46:00.004Z

I haven't played along with a challenge for ages so I decided on Monday to do the fab sketch challenge from Sketch and Stash. The trouble is, I had to stop and as usual i went back to it at a later date and missed out one of the elements! Grrrr. Anyway you can see most of the sketch in it. I won't tell you the bit I missed out and you might not notice! LOL

So now I have to tell you which new stash I used....

I used my brand new Martha Stewart Edge punch and one of the new digi images (drawn by moi ;), everything on the card is from Charmed Cards and Crafts

Dottie's World Challenge - Leaf it!

2010-01-24T07:19:00.000Z

It was my turn to set the DW challenge this week. It's a nice and simple one, all you have to do is use leaves and a Charmed download.

Here is what I made...

I do love fiddling with flowers and leaves you can't fail to make fab cards with them.

The image is one of my new little girls from the Sugar and Spice download collection. Sold only at Charmed Cards and Crafts. Drop by for a look if you like to buy new things but you don't like to wait for the postie, you'll have them printing out in a matter of minutes!

Happy crafting,

Louise xx

Dottie's World Challenge - Monochrome

2010-01-17T07:51:00.000Z

Hi Folks,

Here I am again with my DW challenge. I know it's all I seem to to these days but I'm going to make an effort to blog much more often - promise :)

This week Gunn is setting the challenge and she wants us to stick with white as the main colour. I took my photo under artificial light so it looks more yellow than white (EEK!)

The image is of course a Charmed download which can be purchased at Charmed Cards and Crafts.

Thanks for looking, pop over to Dottie's World to play along xxx

Dottie's World Challenge

2010-01-10T09:41:00.000Z

Hello Crafters!
How are you all this beautiful sunshiny day? ("yer right"I here you all moan, ehehe). Ah well forget the horrible weather and escape to your crafting areas because Nicole has a fab sketch for us this week at Dottie's World....I got started really early with this card and everything was ready to be stuck together when I got a sudden last minute Creativity commission in so I put it all safely to the side to be finished later. Hmmmm the problem is when I put it all together today it appears I forgot the sketch a bit and one of my rectangles is the wrong way round! But it doesn't matter, you can still see the basic layout and that's the aim with sketches after all.

Here's what I came up with...

I thought the background to the image was a little stark when it was white so out came my shimmer chalks, I'm quite pleased with the way it compliments the colour scheme now.

The papers are from Bo Bunny here and the image is one of my own drawings which are sold as digital download at Charmed Cards and Crafts so you can get everything for this card at the same place and in the same transaction, handy eh? :)

Amazing Challenge!

2010-01-03T07:09:00.000Z

Hi Folks,

I have to say that I think that this week's challenge at Dottie's World is a stroke of pure genius from Adele, pop over to Dottie's World for more detail

This was perfect for me because it encouraged me to loo through my old papers and discover what lovely things I have got but haven't used in ages.

It also required me to use something new so out came my Martha Stewart punches which I got as a very special Christmas gift from my friend and partner in digi downloads - Karen.

Here's what I came up with....

So, my old element was the basic Grey papers and the new element was my border punch. The image is one of my drawings which is available to purchase as a digital download from Charmed Cards and Crafts

Go on...join in the fun!

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-12-27T12:25:00.003Z

Oooh I thought I had scheduled this! Sorry I'm late.

It was my turn to set this week's challenge over at Dottie's World, I went for something nice and easy to ease folks back into crafting nice and gently after the Christmas indulgence.

So all you have to do is make a girlie card using a Charmed Download.

Here is mine

The image is from the new Charmed download collection (drawn by me ;0)) the papers are 'My Mind's eye' This took ages to make but I like the result, i hope you do too.

Have lovely day,

Louise xx

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-12-20T11:05:00.003Z

Hi Folks,

I'm afraid a combination of lost mojo and to-much-to-do has resulted in a bit of a crappy card for the challenge this week lol. Non the less it is done now and it is just going to have to suffice. Gunn wants us to use stockings on our card this week, it's a fab challenge and the rest of the team have made some amazing cards.

Here is mine (the stocking element is the pattern on the paper)

If you would like to join in please pop over to Dottie's World

Have a great day and thanks for stopping by xxxx

A Spoon Full of Sugar - sketch challenge

2009-12-16T16:16:00.006Z

I haven't done any challenges in ages but now I've finished drawing the new digi collection I want to play.

Nikki has given us a fab sketch to work with at the Spoon Full of Sugar Blog,

Here's how I interpreted it...

The Drawing, of course, is one of my own from the Sugar and Spice digi set (available here). I like how she appears to be cycling right out of the card front.

When i designed this one the idea was that you could add your own bits and bobs to the basket but I decided to leave it empty for this card. Another time I will fill it with paper flowers or maybe a Christmas tree.

I hope you like it, thanks for looking xxx

New Cute Downloads!

2009-12-15T13:21:00.004Z

Elloooo!
I'm all of a quiver today! Did you know that last night saw the release of the new set of Charmed digital downloads? Noooo? Well then you need to pop over for a close look. I know I shouldn't say it because I draw them but...I think it could be one of the best sets to far!
Here is my first card using one of these cute little ladies...

All my drawings are prepared and sold online by the lovely Karen, she's an angel, pop over to see her store; Charmed Cards and Crafts.

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-12-13T07:26:00.000Z

Cor not long till Christmas eh! I suppose I should get organised! EEK this is one time of the year when I am in absolutely no rush to break up from work...I need to slow time down - seriously!

Any how on to this week's challenge which has been set by the lovely Nicole.

She wants us to incorporate 3 snowflakes into our crafty creation (and a Charmed download too!)

Here's what I came up with....

The image is of course one of my own which are sold as downloads at Charmed Cards and Crafts.

If you fancy playing along please pop over to Dottie's World

Star Challenge - Dottie's World

2009-12-06T07:22:00.000Z

I only just squeezed this one in this week, the photo isn't good because we have so little daylight now grrrr.

This week on Dottie's world it is a star theme - please pop over for more details. Here's what I came up with.....

Now I'm going to check out all of last week's entries - yes I know it's last minute but I like to leave it until the end so that I can get everybody at once :0)

Have a fab Sunday

Louise xx

Birthday Treats

2009-12-04T14:12:00.005Z

I was dreading my birthday this year, 36 is the wrong side of 35! closer to 40 than 30 iyswim lol! I had no plans to celebrate it, the day came just like any other (it was Wednesday) I went to work - as you do and it was just like any other day BUT THEN I got home and I got the post!!! OMG how my day to a full turn!

First the RM van came with a big squidgy parcel for me, it was very unexpected and i had no idea what it might be. I opened it to discover that it was a stunning hand quilted cushion made by my wonderful - newly found, cousin Gill. She has the biggest talent and the biggest heart ever!! Take a look.....

Sorry the photo is a bit blurry but you can still see how beautiful it is can't you, she even made me a matching card! Thank you so much Gill I love you to bits
So the next visit was from the post man, look at all these hand made cards that dropped through the door....

I have such lovely, generous and talented friends, thank you Sian, Karen, Gill, Shell, Mellie and Ruth, they are beautiful mmmmwahhhhh.Just as I was reading the last of my cards there came a knock at the door.......
Look what was awaiting me!!!! Phwarrrrr!!

These are from my wonderful friend Karen, I love her to bits you know, I'm such a lucky girl. The flowers in this basket are so fresh they will last for ages! Karen must know me so well because she has included my favourite flowers - Freesias, my room smells delightful!Thank you so so much Karen, I wish I could give you a real hug instead of a cyber one xxxxx

So you see, in the end being 36 turned out not so badf after all!

DW Challenge Boy Oh Boy!

2009-11-29T07:48:00.000Z

It was my turn to set the challenge at Dottie's World this week and i went for a boy challenge to celebrate the launch of the new digital download collection from Charmed Cards and Crafts (designed by moi!)
Pop over there for the details and to find out about the little prize that I am giving away.
Here is my Boy card.....

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!

Enjoy your Sunday,

Louise xx

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-11-22T07:17:00.000Z

Gunn has set us a fab challenge at Dottie's World this week. She wants us to b inspired by gingerbread houses. As you can see, I went in the direction of colour and the whole Scandinavian feel....

I'm just sooo in LURVE with these Bo Bunny papers they are totally lush!

The image is of course one of my drawings, sold as digital downloads at Charmed Cards and Crafts.

To play along just pop over to Dottie's World.

A Non-Challenge Card!

2009-11-20T15:36:00.003Z

Well there haven't been many of these recently! By Golly!

I've finally finished my drawings for the new Download collection (available to purchase and download immediately from Charmed Cards and Crafts) so now I have time to have a little play!

Here's what I came up with using one of my new drawings...............

It's called Tumble Time and it's part of the Boy Oh Boy set. There are 10 unique images in the set at a very good price AND you can have them to play with almost instantly! So no waiting for the post man.

OK sales pitch over lol. I hope you like my little card xx

Red, White and Black

2009-11-15T07:34:00.000Z

Good Morning!!!!!

This week we have a colour challenge at Dottie's World and it's been set by the lovely Nicole in Canada, we're so lucky to have her, she rocks!!!

Nicole wants us to use red white and black along with one of the charmed downloads.

I had fun with this one.....

I used some of my gorgeous new Bo Bunny paper from Charmed cards and crafts, check it out and all the other scrumptious new arrivals! I love it when you get a new box of papers and your mojo comes rushing back!
Look I even decorated the inside! That's good for me!

The image is from the Holly and Madison World Tour download set, from Charmed Cards and Crafts, it's one of my favourite sets so far. Ooooh and I've just about finished the new drawings so watch out for those ;0)

This second card is from an older challenge but I thought it fitted well with this one so I added it to give a little extra inspiration. This image is also from the World Tour set.

Why don't you go along to Dottie's World and join in the fun... See you there! :0)

Around the World

2009-11-08T07:36:00.000Z

Adele has set us a fab challenge this week over on Dottie's World - pop over to find out more.

Here is the card I made for it, I'm gong to give it to my brother in law who lives in OZ.

You won't recognise the image because it's one of my new ones and it isn't for sale yet but don't panic - the collection is almost complete!

Please pop over to Dottie's World and join in!

Dottie's World Challenge - Feathers

2009-11-01T07:59:00.000Z

June wants us to use feathers for this week's DW challenge. Well, I searched through my craft room and couldn't find a single blummin feather so I settled for two strips of Maribu, I think it still counts (fingers crossed!)

I wanted to make a thank you card for my fabulous cousin Gill who has made me a fantastic hand quilted bag - she's so clever!

She lives down in Bristol so I decided to make my card to fit inside a tin that I had saved (like you do!) so that it survives the journey in the post.

The Pixie is one of my drawings which are sold as downloads at Charmed Cards and Crafts. The sentiment was cut out on my Silhouette, the papers are Basic Grey (I think lol) and those cute flowers were purchased at The Works book shop.

Here's the tin, I kept t fairly simple but I like it.

Here's the arty shot ;0)

Thank you for looking, enjoy your week.

Louise

xxxxxxxxxxxx

Dottie's World Challenge - Child's Play

2009-10-25T07:48:00.000Z

Hi Folks,

It was my turn to set the DW challenge this week and I decided on a child theme, pop over t Dottie's World for more details.

Here's what I came up with....

This image hasn't been released yet, it's from our new download collection ('Boy oh Boy') available only at Charmed Cards and Crafts which will be available to purchase within the next few weeks. So keep your eyes peeled, these images are very special as they have all been hand drawn in the good old fashioned way so they've taken some time!

Dottie's World Challenge-Autumn

2009-10-18T07:15:00.000+01:00

We have an autumnal feel to the challenge this week at Dottie's World and why not? Bring it on!!!! I love Autumn, it's my favourite season of all.

Here's my autumn feel card....

The image is Holly and Mike from the recently released Christmas Download collection from Charmed Cards and Crafts.

Enjoy your week,

Louise xxxxx

Dottie's World Challenge - Halloween

2009-10-11T07:10:00.000+01:00

Hi Folks,
I've beeen a bit naughty this week, I left my challenge card until last minute and then didn't get it done (shame on me!) so for this week's DW challenge I'm showing some oldies for the Halloween theme, here goes.....

Al papers and downloadable images are from Charmed Cards and Crafts, check em out!

Thank you Nicole for setting this spooktacular challenge xxxxx

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-10-04T07:59:00.000+01:00

Adele has set a perfect challenge this week at Dottie's World, well it's perfect for me anyway because it's something I do all the time. She wants us to use circles in our creation (along with a Charmed download)

Well my card base is actually circular but it got a little lost behind my fairy wonderland scene! I guess I could include all those spots on the toadstools into the circle theme though lol....

Here's another angle

The toadstools and the pixie are all from the Pixie Chicks download sets......take a look

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-09-27T07:23:00.000+01:00

We have a cracker this week! Our June wants us to show her our danglies! (Pop over to Dottie's World for more details) There are also prizes up for grabs so be sure to pop over.

Here's my card - danglies included!

I've used one of my favourite Pixie Chick downloads for this one, isn't she sassy! Awwww I've just spotted a spelling mistake on the charm, that's a bit naughty isn't it!

Have a lovely day

Louise xx

Emotional Blackmail

2009-09-26T17:18:00.002+01:00

I've just taken this photo from my seat in my craft room, this is what I have to put up with while I craft! If I let her in she climbs all over me or chews my toes! Don't be fooled by that sweet face, she's a little devil and deserves no sympathy!

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-09-20T07:41:00.000+01:00

Good morning! I hope you are all well ♥

This week it's my turn to set the challenge at Dottie's World - please pop over for more info.

This is the card that I made...

It was a bit of a quicky but I think it's turned out quite nice do you? The papers are Basic Grey and the image is one of the Cornflower Pixie downloads (drawn be moi! :0)).

Have a lovely day

Louise xx

Thank You

2009-09-18T14:37:00.002+01:00

Hi Everyone! Yes I'm actually here with a card that isn't for a Dottie's World challenge!

This one was actually made to show on the Delectable Stamps blog (because I've used a Delectable stamp) so if you want more details please pop over for a look.

Here is the card....

It's Friday!!!!!!! Have fun!!!!!

Louise xxx

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-09-13T07:47:00.000+01:00

OMG what a week! I didn't think I'd get this card done but I managed it in the end :0)

This week Gunn has given us a fab sketch to use for the challenge, here's what I came up with

I've used Christmas Scruff from the new Christmas download collection from Charmed Cards and Crafts. The papers are from a K&Co pad - also from charmed -I don't shop anywhere else!

If you fancy playing along please pop over to Dottie's World for more info and lots of inspiratrion from the rest of the DT.

I've just got home with an injured husband after a morning in A&E so I'll be playing nursy for the rest of the day.

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-09-06T07:01:00.000+01:00

Before I begin can somebody tell me who stole summer? I'm very annoyed and I will be turning up at their door with my truncheon!

Anyhow, this weeks challenge over at Dottie's World is baby themed, pop over for more info.

I'm quite pleased with this card and it was only a quickie!

These die cut Wild Raspberry papers from K&Company are fantastic! They take all the work out of card making and give a really professional look.
he image is of course one of the Charmed downloads (what else?!!) It's called Waiting for Santa and it's from the new collection - Charming Christmas -very reasonably priced too if I say so myself!

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-08-30T07:19:00.000+01:00

Hi there Girls and Guys! It's been a funny old month for me and I've been a bad blogger but you'll be pleased to hear that after losing my mojo and searching everywhere for it, it's decided to come back! The little bugger had stayed in Turkey! Anyway, mojo got fed up of the sun and the randy Turkish men and decided it was time to return....thank God for that! Mojo has a great sun tan though! LOL
Anyhow, this week it was my turn to set the Dottie's World Challenge. It's an inspiration challenge and instead of the usual picture for inspiration I have given just a word.... HOLIDAY. I want folks to make a card inspired by that word, it could be holiday memories, bon voyage or even a seasonal/holiday card.
For my example card I have used a photograph taken on my recent holiday, I liked it and thought it would be nice on a card.....ahhhhhh

The papers are gorgeous aren't they!! They are from My Minds Eye. Of course the Dottie's World challenges require us to use a Charmed download. For this card I used a frame from one of the Pixie Chicks sets, they're so useful.

If you would like to play along pop over to Dottie's World for the low down.

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-08-23T07:05:00.000+01:00

Woo Hoo!!!! It's June's first challenge over at Dottie's World this week and it's a stonker! She wants us to make something a little different, pop over for the full story.

Anyhow I've just finished drawing the brand new Christmas download collection (if it's not on sale at the time this goes live don't worry there won't be long to wait)

In the new collection we have several new faces but we've also revisited some of your good old Charmed favourites in their festive garb. Here in my card I have used the Christmas Pixie.

The image forms the whole shape of the card front with a quarter circle for the inside.

Isn't she sassy!

Thank you June for this fab challenge, as you know I love to make shaped cards.
If you would like to see the full range of our digital downloads at Karen's fabulous craft store click here

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-08-16T07:26:00.000+01:00

It's Adele's wedding anniversary! Happy anniversary Adele. To celebrate in style Adele has set us an all loved up challenge today, she wants us to make a love themed card using one of the Charmed downloads. Here's what I came up with...

I just love 'Water Lilly' and I think she is perfect for this challenge.

If you fancy playing along pop over to Dottie's World for some more inspiration from the rest of the team.

Louise xx

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-08-09T07:12:00.000+01:00

Hi folks!
I've actually managed to get a card made! It's not up to much but as I had no mojo whatsoever it's not too bad. The challenge was set by Nicole and she wants us to just use one colour for our backgrounds and embellishments. Great challenge Nicole.
I've gone for green......

As always on the Dottie's World challenges we have to include on of the Charmed downloads, Here I have used one of the Pixie Chicks- in case you're new to my blog I draw all of the Charmed downloads (except for some of the backgrounds which have been expertly drawn by the lovely Karen Mortensen).

It started out as a bit of fun but they very quickly took over my life, causing me to reduce my hours at work and drive my family mad but I love it! If you haven't seen the Charmed Downloads pop over for a look♥

Louise xx

Turkey Beautiful Turkey

2009-08-06T08:47:00.010+01:00

Hi folks,

Well I'm back and it seems oh so dull here in Hull. My two weeks in Turkey were just amazing, I feel like I've come back a different person. I really hope we can go back next year.

I'm really not in crafting mode at the moment, my head and my heart are still in Turkey but I have some photos to share with you.

Here we are at the Dalyan mud baths on our last day, my skin felt super soft afterwards.

Our hotel was just perfect and If I return I will be staying there that's for sure. I won a free family photo in a raffle there but the photographer ended up taking loads -which we bought, they're not daft! LOL

Here I am with my son Mikey, great photo eh!
I love these under water shots

This is a bit of an arty shot isn't it? LOL. I didn't know it was being taken but I do like it, it captures the moment perfectly.

I have lots more but I won't bore you with them all at once.

I'm going to be shown around the local gym this afternoon, now that I've reached my target weight I need to get fit and toned up - wish me luck!

Dottie's World Challenge - Black & White

2009-08-02T07:51:00.000+01:00

Hi Folks, I hope you're reading this now because I wrote it and scheduled it 3 weeks ago and scheduling has been letting me down a bit recently. As you read this I'll be somewhere in Turkey soaking up the sun!

This week sees Gunn setting her first challenge. She wants us to use black and white with an accent colour (along with a Charmed download of course!)

Here's what I came up with...

It's a bit of a quickie but I think it fits the criteria. I've used the Holly in the USA from the Holly and Madison World Tour download set, I think she looks quite cool in black and white don't you?

I had to cheat a little bit and use my darkest blue as a base colour on my image with black as the shading colour, the thing with black is that it's hear do get any depth if you don't use another colour too. The white T-shirt had to have a little shading too but Gunns a sweetoe, I think she'll let me off ♥

Have a lovely day,

Louise xx

Razzle Dazzle

2009-07-26T08:27:00.003+01:00

Adele wants us to use bling and one of the harmed Downloads for the Dottie's World Challenge.

My bling is quite subtle but it's definitely there....

I put lots of little gems around the frame and there is a lot of glitter on there too, this photo doesn't really show it very well though.

The images is the Cornflower Cameo from one of the Pixie Chicks download sets (can't remember which right now) I've added some extra flowers, leaves and some flowere soft to accentuate the flowery area, I think it's turned out quite pretty.

If you would likee to check out the Pixie Chick downloads just click HERE

Dottie's World Challenge- Frames and Borders

2009-07-19T08:13:00.006+01:00

It was Tara's turn to set the Challenge at Dottie's World this week, This is what she said...

"My idea for a challenge is to create a frame or border somewhere on your card or project. This could be cut out shapes, a picture frame effect or a stamped border perhaps".

This was a simple choice for me, I used one of the frames from the Pixie Chicks download sets

Of course the image is a Pixie Chick too!

I've added quite a lot of sparkle and bling to this one, the Pixie's lend themselves really well to a bit of sparkle don't you think?

If you would like to check out the Pixie Chick Download sets just click HERE

Dottie's World Challenge -- Oh La La

2009-07-12T07:03:00.000+01:00

It's my turn again to set the DW challenge this week and I decided to join in the French celebration of Bastille day by having a French themed challenge. It's quite loosely French based though, if you want you can just have the french flag colours as your theme. I've gone down the red, white and blue route but I've also used one of the Charmed downloads that I think has a French feel to it. I've used Rosebud from the Pixie Chicks, I think her jaunty hat has a definite french look to it, what do you think?.....

Isn't she a sweetie? I've paper pieced the dress with some nice BG paper. The image is coloured with my Copics.
If you would like to check out the Pixie Chick downloads just click Here.

Have lovely day,

Louise xx

I'm Such a Proud Mum!

2009-07-10T15:57:00.002+01:00

Hi folks, I don't have anything crafty to show you today but I would like to show you a recording of my daughter Holly singing in her school concert last night. Her dream is to one day be in a west end musical and her whole life seems to revolve around achieving it! The song she is singing here is The Wizard and I from Wicked. It's not he easiest song to sing and the other solo was probably the best of the two (she sang Hallelujah) but with this one I was really impressed with how she acted the part.
Before you watch it, let me explain that the person who starts the song off is her friend Steph. My Holly is the one in the skirt who sings the main part of the song.

Please take a look ♥♥♥♥ Thank You

Amazing Competition!

2009-07-08T20:12:00.004+01:00

Phwar!!! How many of you would like a brand spanking new set of 72 Copics?

I've just bought my second set but I still want to tell all my blogging buddies about it. If you want to know exactly how to get you hands on them please pop over to My dear friend Karen's blog Crafty Goings On. It's so easy to enter!

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-07-05T07:01:00.000+01:00

It's a fab challenge at Dottie's World this week; we have to make a card/project inspired by a garden. Well it just so happens that I was doing some gardening this morning before I made this card (I'm writing this the day before - I ain't an early riser!LOL) and I was cleaning out my fish pond. This card is therefore inspired by my fish pond.

I've used Water Lilly from the Pixie Chick # 2 download set and placed her onto a section of the riverside background which is in the same set. The great thing about the digital backgrounds is that you don't have to use the whole thing, you can enlarge the section that you want to use like I have here. The lilies around the edge are also copied and pasted from the background to create a foreground embellishment.

I've used clusters of seed beads and some glitter in the centre of each flower and I've also added some acrylic dewdrops for the droplet effect.

Thanks for looking.

Louise xx

Dottie' World Challenge

2009-06-28T08:04:00.000+01:00

Grrr why the heck isn't blogger scheduling working today!!!!! Sorry I'm late, this should have appeared early this morning along with a post on Dottie's World, neither worked!

Anyhow, it's my turn to set the Dottie's World challenge this week so, as summer is finally upon us I've asked people to include some sunshine on their cards.

Here's what I came up with

It's one of those card that took absolutely ages and in the end I wasn't really all the happy with it, ah well, c'est la vie!

The image is of course Dreamer, he seems to be the favourite of the Pixie Chicks download collections.

Have lovely day,

Louise xx

Colour Create

2009-06-27T12:25:00.004+01:00

Don't you find it liberating breaking through the boundaries? Today's card was made for the Colour Create challenge and I've broken the unspoken rules of cardmaking! I know, once a rebel always a rebel right? LOL.
This card is very impractical, it will need a box making for it but it's fun! Take a look....

I think it will look really pretty sitting upon the recipient's mantle piece so who cares about practicality! I don't sell my cards anymore so I don't need to worry about being sensible!

The Pixie is of course one of my latest creations, She can be purchased here at Charmed Cards and Crafts.

Pixie Chicks

2009-06-24T09:30:00.005+01:00

Well I've finally finished the Pixie Chicks! Woo Hoo! This time I've worked with Karen to produce the sets. Karen has made some fantastic backgrounds and LOADS of sentiments to go into the bundles. If you haven't seen them yet you should pop over for a look.

Today I've put a tutorial on Dottie's World to show you how to use the card kits which are another extra in the kits. Here's what the cards look like....

Everything used to make the cards above, including the template for the card base is in Pixie Chicks set 2.

The elements in the card below are in Set 1 along with much much more!

The great thing about the kits is that if you're in a rush you can just print them out ready coloured, cut them out and stick them together but if you're feeling creative you can print them out in black and white and choose your own colour scheme, adding glitter and other embellishments.

The Pixie Chicks downloads are available to purchase at Charmed Cards & Crafts.

I'm so proud of these little ladies, they are well and truly from the heart.

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-06-21T07:00:00.000+01:00

It's getting so exciting over t Dottie's World because the new Charmed download images are almost ready to go on sale! I tell you what, more work has gone into these little beauties than any of the collections so far so watch out for them, I think you'll like them! If you haven't already seen any of our sneak previews take a look at what I've made for this week's Dottie's world Challenge.....

The Challenge - set by Adele is to use one of the Charmed downloads to make a Christmas card....

Here we have the Holly Pixie sitting ever so sweetly on the specially made Happy Holly Days bookplate which will be included in the set.

Inside I've printed one of the fabulous sentiments created by Karen (also in the set!)

Have a lovely day.

Louise xx

Thank You Karen

2009-06-20T08:29:00.003+01:00

I've come on today (a little late) in celebration of friendship AGAIN!!! I really can't believe how lucky I am.

This time the token of friendship and support came from my dear, dear friend Karen. Look what she made for me using one of our new Pixie images.....

My photo is a little over exposed, it actually looks even more beautiful in real life. Thank you so so much Karen for being such a fabuous friend♥ I really have been blessed. Karen also gave me a very generous gift - what a sweetie!

Karen and I have been working together on this new download collection- Karen has produced some stunning backgrounds and sentiments to compliment my Pixies, we've had so much fun! Wait until you see them all, we're almost done!

Well I'm going shopping now because all work and no play maakes Louly a dull lassy!

Dottie's World Challenge - Father's Day

2009-06-14T07:25:00.000+01:00

It's my turn to set the Challenge on Dottie's World this week so just in time for father's day I would like you to make a Father's Day card using one of the Charmed downloads.

I've been ultra busy with the new collection (more details at Dottie's world) so I'm afraid this week's card was made in a hurry, it's very basic.....

The papers and embellishments are all K&Co and the image is one of my Mikey designs which are sold as digital downloads at Charmed Cards and Crafts.

Thank You Ruth

2009-06-11T08:19:00.003+01:00

I am lucky enough to have many dear friends that I have had the privilege to meet through my blogs and through the Charmed Forum. One such friend is Ruth AKA Crafty Wanderings. She is one heck of a lady! She gives so much of herself to others, not only through her work with the local community but by being an absolute first class pal.

I've been a bit poorly recently - nothing serious might I add but it's an ongoing thing. Well the support I've had from all of my friends has been second to none and I really can't thank them all enough. Ruth has given me so much advice and help I couldn't ask for anything else but just look what she sent me the other day........

As you can see she made me an absolutely stunning card and what she wrote inside was very special to me, this card will be kept inn a very safe place I can tell you. I think what touched me the most was that she crocheted me lots of beautiful little flowers to use on my cards - you can see some in the photo.

They must have taken her ages! Isn't she amazing!

Thank you Ruth for being you, don't ever change.♥♥♥

I haven't been around much recently - sorry about that. I've been working on the new download collection for Charmed Cards and Crafts. If you'd like a sneaky peek pop over to Dottie's World to see what Karen made with one of them.

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-06-07T07:13:00.000+01:00

It's Juliet's turn to set the challenge at Dottie's World this week and she wants us to go all holey!

I would like to see a hole or holes on your project this week - it could be an aperture card, cheeseholing or any other type of hole you can think of. And just to make it a little more interesting, add a touch of distressing too! Remember to include one of the Charmed downloads and I can't wait to see what you come up with.

So here's what I came up with...

The Papers are from my new K&Co Citronella mat pad and Peggy Pig is from the Animal Magic download bundle. As you can see I've made a holey scalloped frame for Peggy to lounge on, she looks rather comfy doesn't she!

When I made my challenge card I had totally forgotten the distressed requirement, it was just lucky that I distressed the edges of my sentiment label with my Tim Holtz edge distresser! Phew, I just got away with it!

Have a lovely day,

Louise xx

Truly Scrumptious-Folds

2009-06-04T10:17:00.006+01:00

I love taking part in challenges but never seem to get as many done as I would like to. This week I've made time to play along with the Truly Scrumptious challenge which is to us more than one fold on your card.

I had loads of fun with this one!

I am a big fan of 6x6 paper pads, the patterns are just the right size for cards. so when I saw that Karen had some in the store that I hadn't spotted before I had to snap them up because they always sell out so quickly. The papers on this card are from my favourite pad Basic Grey Marrakech aren't they gorgeous!
I cut the circle on my Silhouette, I'm really pleased with how it looks so I think you may be seeing some more of these cards from me. The Stamp is Elegant Annie only available from Charmed Cards and Crafts.
So where is the second fold? I hear you ask, well it's on the inside of course........

This card is going to be a thank you card for my aunty Cath - she's knitted me a lovely scarf, I think the stamped image of Irresistable Annie on the flap is perfect for saying thank you.

I hope you like it, thank you for looking and have a lovely day

Louise xx

Dottie's World- Coffee & Cream

2009-05-31T07:33:00.000+01:00

I've been a bad blogger this week, in fact I've been bad with everything! I've had a week of doing nothing and I feel so much better for it! But I'm here now with my challenge card for the Dottie's world challenge. This is the brief from Karen;

The challenge is simply "Coffee and Cream with spots or stripes" - and a Charmed download of course

Here's what I came up with...

I kept it nice and simple but i think it turned out OK. I used one of the cat downloads from Charmed Cards and Crafts and some left over scraps of paper cut with my Sizzix heart die for the base. I wimped out a little bit with the spots or stripes aspect but I hope it counts, I went for the spotty design on the cat and used my spots embossing folder for the cream paper but you can't actually see it very well on the picture.

We have our four new designers starting today so please pop over to Dottie's World and give them a big warm welcome.

Dottie's World Challenge - Buttons or Beads

2009-05-24T07:58:00.000+01:00

It's been a busy week over at Dottie's World, we've been having a party to celebrate our first birthday, If you haven't payed along with the games you should go for a look, there is loads of candy up for grabs.

Staying with Dottie's World there is a brand new challenge today and it has been set by Adele, here's what she said;

Buttons or Beads....I have tons of them but rarely use them ! Dig deep into your crafty stash and embellish away. It doesn't matter how you use them, as long as they are visible on your creation. If you haven't got any (!!!!) improvise!Only other "rule" is that a Charmed Download must be used.

I decided to go for buttons AND Beads.......

The papers and the chip board buttons are K&Company - Blue Awning. The image is Holly in London from the Holly & Madison World Tour digi stamp set, I've paper pieced her to make her blend in nicely.

I made the sentiment to go on the front but it wouldn't fit so I put it inside..

I adore these chip board buttons, I think they're really classy.

Why not pop over to Dottie's World to see what the rest of the team came up with and check out those party games whilst you're there. xxx

Dottie's World

2009-05-16T08:46:00.001+01:00

Hi folks,
If you have tried to visit Dottie's world and haven't been able to get in don't panic, it's closed for refurbishment! LOL. The grand re opening is tomorrow morning so you don't have long to wait.
Sorry for the inconvenience.
Louise xxx

Cute Card Thursday Challenge

2009-05-14T18:31:00.004+01:00

The challenge over at CCT this week is to use numbers or letters, I went for H for Helen my sister-in-law............

I wanted to get the effect of Annie's feet really dangling, I think by cropping the card like this I've managed to achieve it.

The papers and embellies are from We R Memory Keepers and the Acrylic stamp is Annie Sitting Pretty from Charmed Delectable Stamps.

I've been a bit poorly this week so I haven't got much done at all but I really did enjoy making this card this afternoon.

Birthday Celebrations!

2009-05-12T20:12:00.005+01:00

First of all before I tell you the news I want to share a card with you that I made for the Delectable Stamps blog...

The image is one of our newly released Acrylic stamps, Purrfect Annie with Kitty. The papers are Basic Grey. Our Annie's a little cutie isn't she!

Right onto the news, Dottie's World is celebrating it's first birthday and it's party time!!
We're giving away sooo much amazing candy over the celebration week, here's the invitation...

Pop over to Dottie's World to see how you can get your crafty mitts on some of this stash!

Dottie's World Challenge - Charmed!

2009-05-10T07:02:00.000+01:00

Hello Folks,

I'm sorry I've not been around for a while, I've been quite busy sorting out something very special and exciting for Dottie's World, be patient, you'll find out really soon!

Speaking of Dottie's World, that's why I'm here today. It's Juliet's turn to set the challenge and she wants us to use one of the Charmed downloads and some real charms on our creations, she wants to see some dangling!

Here's my card....

The image is Lady Pusskins and the papers are from My Mind's Eye. As you can see I manged to squeeze two charms on mine but with the Charmed download I guess we have Charmed X 3!

I think it adds a really nice finishing touch when you decorate the inside of cards, I really must do it more often.

Thank you for looking, please pop over to Dottie's World and see what the rest of the team have come up with.

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-05-03T08:31:00.000+01:00

It's my turn to set the Dottie's world challenge this week and I've gone for an inspirational photo....

I love to see how different people interpret it, the outcome from the DT is really diverse, I find it dead interesting.

I was inspired by the green and purple and the swirly nature of it. Here's what I came up with.....

I cut the scalloped card and all the swirls on my Silhouette. i printed the Madison image out with the background added digitally so that I didn't have any cutting out to do.

I added some glitter to her tights and scarf for a little bit of pizazz!

If you fancy playing along pop over to Dottie's World for some more inspiration.

Enjoy the rest of your bank holiday weekend.

Louise xx

Cute Card Thursday - Mirror Mirror

2009-04-30T16:34:00.004+01:00

This week on Cute Card Thursday they want us to use something shiny. This came just in time for me because I had some scraps of Mirri board left over from a magazine commission that I've just finished. My shiny element (the border) is subtle but at the same time effective (well I think it is anyway!)

The paper and the embellishments are K&Co Cut N Paste and the stamp is one of the Annie stamps from Charmed Delectable Stamps available only from Charmed Cards and Crafts, she'll go on sale very very soon but you can pre-order the whole set now if you don't want to miss out.

Here are some close ups....

Truly Scrumptious- Good Enough to Eat!

2009-04-29T19:46:00.006+01:00

I really enjoyed doing the Truly Scrumptious Challenge last week so I've decided to play again!

This is a fab one, here's the brief;

"We have another sketch for you to work with this week with the additional challenge of make a card that is truly scrumptious and good enough to eat! Remember to follow the sketch and the theme to be in with a chance of winning this weeks fantastic prize".

With the release of the first Charmed Delectable stamp range imminent I wanted to make an Annie card to show on the Delectable blog so although this card covers just one challenge it will be on two blogs - I hope that's OK??

Here's what I came up with...

Not fantastic lighting I'm afraid but other than that I'm really happy with how this card turned out. The papers are My Minds Eye, the yummy embellies are K&Co Cut & Paste (I think!) and the stamp is an Annie Acrylic stamp from the soon to be released Charmed Delectable Stamps.

Thank you for looking, to see the sketch and join in with the challenge pop over to the Truly Scrumptious Blog.

Dottie's World Challenge -Teen

2009-04-26T07:50:00.001+01:00

It's Adele's turn to set the challenge for us this week over at Dottie's World and she's come up with a cracker! To coincide with the launch of the new Mikey downloads, she wants us to make a card for a teenager!

So without further ado, here's my effort!

My Mikey wants driving lessons for hiss 17th birthday in September and I just know he'll do well so I made this congratulations card for him, OK it's premature but I know he'll be getting it one day.

The great thing about downloads is that you can make them whatever size you like (within reason!!) I made Driving Mikey nice and big and made the image form the shape of the card front, I like doing cards like this because you don't have to come up with a layout idea- the picture makes the card for itself!

I printed out some L plates and well and truly distressed them so look as though they had been discarded , easy yet effective!

Thank you for dropping by, if you'd like some more inspiration or if you'd like to play along, please pop over to Dottie's World.

Cute Card Thursday-Getting Edgy

2009-04-23T14:27:00.004+01:00

I love this week's CCT Challenge, here's the brief...

"For this weeks challenge we would like you to either tear, sand, distress or sew the edges of your card."

I decided to go for some distressing with my Tim Holtz edge distresser...

I decided to use the Prom Prince Mikey download for this one, I think edge distressing works great for masculine cards. My son Mikey (funnily enough! LOL) has his prom coming up so I thought this would be great for him.

The papers are from my Basic Grey Ambrosia pad.

Truly Scrumptious

2009-04-22T18:44:00.008+01:00

Well I'm finally getting back to normal here now that the new digi collection and the stamp range are finished so I can start to do challenges again!!! Yippee!!!

I had a look in my sidebar for a Wednesday one and found Truly Scrumptious, I popped over and discovered that they have the perfect theme to go with the image I've been wanting to use.

The challenge is to make a card for a child and to base it on their sketch. The great thing about challenges is that they get you do things you wouldn't normally do. The sketch had lots of layers on it and I don't normally do that so it's been a great exercise for me. I enjoyed it too!

Here's what I came up with...

Before I carry on I must tell you, this is one of our Annie images that will be available to buy as stamps very soon from Charmed Cards and Crafts (you can pre order them here). Now, because they are still in production I'm using printed images for my cards. The image you see on my card is printed smaller than it will be as a stamp. I didn't think about it until it was too late.

Here's another picture of the same card to give you a glimpse of the inside

The tags, ephemera and paper are all from the K&Co Cut & Paste Collection
I was amazed at how many die cut shapes you get in the ephemera pack, it's packed full! Such good value for money I have to say.

So, here are the close ups....

Copic Colour Challenge

2009-04-22T11:16:00.000+01:00

Here we are again with another fabulous Copic Colour Challenge! Boy don't the week pass quickly, I hope they continue to pass quickly because I want to go on my holiday to Turkey... NOW!!!!

I didn't have the exact colours this week (I'm very tempted to buy the other set of Copics) Here's what I came up with.....

The Main colours that I used to try to meet the requirement were; RV04 RV23 B00 B32.

Obviously I had to add to the list, I didn't want our Mikey looking camp! Here's a close up...

The Image is Mikey & Madison from the brand spanking new Mikey download bundle available to purchase from Charmed Cards and Crafts,

The papers are K&Co.

Have a lovely day,

Louise xx

Meet Mikey!

2009-04-21T21:30:00.003+01:00

I meant to blog this this morning but I forgot. If you've visited Dottie's World today you'll have seen it anyway, it's my first card from my newest download designs, launched today at Charmed Cards and Crafts!

Meet Mikey......

People are going mad for Mikey! I'm chuffed to bits! If you'd like to read more about this brand new download set just visit Dottie's World or if you just want to rush of to the store you can click here.

Thank you for looking.xxx

Dotie's World Challenge - Christmas (!!!!)

2009-04-19T07:59:00.000+01:00

It's another prize week over at Dottie's World! (thank you Karen). To be in with a chance of winning the challenge prize pop over and play along!

The theme is Christmas - it's never too early!

Here's what I came up with.......

As you can see, you don't have to go all green red and gold to do Christmas, I've gone for much more muted tones for my card. The papers are My Mind's Eye, the sentiment ins Imaginisce and the image is Madison in the mountains, I enlarged her and cropped her.

I love making these little distressed rosettes, they're so easy and a great alternative to flowers, all you have to do is tear some circles of patterned paper, distress the edges (I use my Tim Holtz edge distresser) scrunch them up, un-scrunch them then pile them up voila!

Why don't you pop over to Dottie's World to find out more.

Copics Colour Challenge

2009-04-15T07:39:00.000+01:00

It was my turn to choose the colours this week so I went for may fave which is Cardinal, I then chose two colours to compliment it; Cadmium Orange and Olive.

I decided to use one of my cat downloads, I haven't used them in ages so this is long over due....

I used the three main colours for the darkest areas the other colours used were;

Chrome Orange YR04, Lime Green G21, Lipstick red R29, Golden Yellow Y17.

I made some little hearts, distressed them and piled them up....

As you can see, I'm too impatient to wait for glue to dry!

I found these heart charms in my stash the other day and now I can't stop using them.

This is going to be my father's day card to my dad, I love how the little kitty looks up to it's parent in admiration, that's just how I would look up to my dad.

Why don't you pop over to the Copics Colour Challenge blog to see what the rest of the team came up with and why not join in!

A Quickie and a Peek

2009-04-14T10:32:00.004+01:00

Yes it's me! You're not seeing things I'm actually here on my own blog writing a post! I had this idea that when the Easter 'break' came along I would do some challenges and blog everyday! Yer right like that happened! I did manage to draw a range of stamps though so I haven't done bad eh?

I made this bookmark/notelet in the wee small hours to show on Dottie's World, I know it's not up to much but it did only take 15 minutes, do you remember Taz of Tasmania? Well that was me whizzing around my craft room last night after I remembered it was my turn to show something on Dottie's World today (EEK!)

If you actually think it's OK and you would like to know how I achieved this, intricate, time consuming result (!!!)ROFL. Just pop over to Dottie's World.

Onto the sneaky peak, as I mentioned before Karen and I put our heads together to come up with a brand new range of stamps, they're not available to buy just yet but you'll be able to pre-order very soon. We've been giving some previews on the Charmed Delectable Stamps blog that Karen has put together to showcase the stamps and give you all the news, she's also designed some fab blinkies too so you should pop over and pick one up.Here's the peek...

See the full card here, you'll have to scroll down because the blog candy post is staying at the top.

Dottie's World Challenge - Handmade

2009-04-12T09:36:00.004+01:00

Wow what a cracking challenge Nicola has set us this week! First of all here is what she said

I want to see completely hand made cards, no bought backing papers or embellishments, the odd ribbon is fine though, but if you're gonna use backing papers I want you to have made it, if you use embellishments I want you to have made it,not just bought and stuck on and of course a Charmed Card and Crafts Download...................................................

Did you read that bit about the odd ribbon? Yep I'm afraid that's my fault! LOL I was so caught up in the handmade aspect I forgot about the embellishment specification! Sorry Nicola, mmmmwahhh.

I actually make cards without patterned papers quite often but I fancied doing something different for this one. I drew the background and coloured it in a water colour style with my Copics. I didn't have the time or the patience to cut Holly out so I scanned my background, added some black lines on Photoshop layered the digi image of Holly onto it then printed out. Once printed I coloured Holly with my Copics. The rest is self explanatory and very simple but simple is all I've had time for this week.

I hope you like it. Pop over to Dottie's World to see what the rest of the team came up with and to join in!

Stamps Stamps Stamps & Candy!

2009-04-09T09:49:00.005+01:00

Good morning folks,

You know I've been so busy I've left you all in the dark! Many of you will already know my news but if you visit my blog but not Dottie's World you might not know! Shock horror! We can't be having that now can we? I need to shout my news from the rooftops!

As you know I've been selling my designs as downloads with the help of Karen of Charmed Cards and Crafts for over a year now (yes it is that long!!) and over that time we've always had people asking us to make stamps as well as the downloads, some people are addicted to rubber (and acrylic!LOL) so we need to feed their cravings! It would be wrong not too!

Anyhow, it took us a while to get around to it but after careful thought and planning we decided to come up with a brand new range - different to the downloads. It's always hare thinking up a new character, there are so many other stamps that it's hard to come up with something completely original but I think you'll agree that our little Annie has a look all of her own.

Now I bet you're expecting me to show her to you now, well I cant but don't despair! You are only a mouse click away from reading more news and seeing some previews of her in our new blog created to showcase the new, SOON TO BE RELEASED Delectable Stamps!

Just to get you in the mood here's a sneaky peek

Now, if that's not enough to tempt you over to the new blog take a look at this candy that Karen is kindly giving away to celebrate the launch of the stamps....

Now your ears are pricking up aren't they! he he!

Go on, off you go - you know you want to! Charmed Delectable Stamps

Copics Colour Challenge

2009-04-08T10:01:00.003+01:00

Hi folks, I'm sorry I haven't been around much, I've been working flat out on our first range of stamps, no rest for the wicked eh?

We had a stamp to play with from this week's Sponsor - Toodles and Bink for the this challenge, here's what I came up with - rather hurriedly I might add!

I cut the leaf detail from the Mira paper and arranged it in a pattern the shape of the squirrel's tail, it also goes quite well with the leaf detail on the image doesn't it.

To find out more about the challenge and to see the colour list pop over to the Copics Colour Challenge Blog.

Dottie's World Challenge- Bright and Beautiful

2009-04-05T07:15:00.000+01:00

Oh what a beautiful morning! And oh what a beautiful challenge we have from Juliet this week! Here's what she said...

"This week's challenge is simply to make a project using 'bright and beautiful' colours and embellishments - of course featuring one of the Charmed downloads too. Lots of scope there then on this bright and beautiful morning!"

Well what better reason could I ask for to get my good old K&CO Mira papers and embellishments out. Oh and a Sizzix die that I bought in the big sale and never used, here's what I came up with....

Ingredients

Image; Chick Dottie from the Dress Up Dottie Download collection

Patterned papers and paper embellishments; K& Co Mira

If you fancy playing or even if you'd just like to see some fabulous cards from the rest of the design team pop over to Dottie's World.

Copics Colour Challenge #7

2009-04-01T07:18:00.000+01:00

Well would you believe it? It's challenge day again!!! Where does time go?

We have a colour list to use this week - I love these! It doesn't matter if you don't have the same colours, just find the closest match you have. The only one I had the same was the brown one. Pop over to the Copics Colour Challenge blog for more colour details.

Here's the card that I made - pictured with the 3 colours I went went with...

Although I used all three colours, my main focus was on the blue, I even used it to colour the Satin ribbon and button! The only plain ribbon I had was white so I thought I'd give colouring it a go, it's come out OK hasn't it! I'm actually really happy with this card, I hope you like it too.

Dottie's World - You'd Better Shape Up!

2009-03-29T07:49:00.001+01:00

It was my turn to set the challenge over at Dottie's World this week and as I'm a shaped card addict I decided to go with a shaped card theme. The thing I love about making shaped cards is that they look like they took ages but I find them quicker to make than regular shaped cards. I think the reason is that with regular cards I spend ages faffing with the layout, embellishments and papers but with shaped cards the detail is the shape! There isn't much else to think about.

Here's what I came up with .....

I don't mind saying that I think it looks really good And it was so easy!! he inspiration from the double edge around the image came from Juliet's Holly in Spain card, the rest just happened by accident really! Don't you just love it when that happens?

I used acrylic dew drops in the centre of the flowers and the image is Holly in the Garden from the original Holly & Madison digital collection. The Mulberry flowers are available here.

There's a prize up for grabs this week and you could be chosen as guest designer (if you would like to be) so pop on over for a look.

Recycle!

2009-03-27T07:28:00.000Z

I know I'm a bit late in the year to be making a calender but I've been having a sort out and I came across a freebie calender that my dad was given at work and then passed on to me, this is the calender....
I thought it was crying out to be altered.

Now, are you a fan of recycling? Do you see rubbish and think Oooh I know just what I could do with that! Well, I bought a fantastic Tim Holtz ruler from Charmed Cards and Crafts recently and I kept the packaging because I saw the plastic casing and thought it would make brilliant pockets - I know- I'm mad! LOL
Here's the packaging....

Put it together and what do you get? Bippity-Boppity-Boo!

The idea of the flowers along the top was inspired by a fabulous card that Karen made the other day. The papers are Basic Grey-Boxer and the digi image is Holly at Work from the original Holly & Madison collection.

Have a lovely day,

♥♥♥Louise ♥♥♥

Copics Colour Challenge

2009-03-25T07:59:00.001Z

Good morning, it's Wednesday again! My blogging once again has become less frequent but I'm going to stop apologising, life just gets in the way sometimes and we just need to prioritise don't we? Well I think we do anyway.

This week we have a colour challenge again, those are my favourite kind.

These are the Copic colours we have to use (or the nearest we have)

R20

E31

RV04

Here's what I came up with...

The scrummy yummy papers are Basic Grey Ambrosia and the swirls were cut on my Silhouette.

I really like the effect of enlarging the digi stamp and just using part of it, this one is Holly in London from the Holly & Madison World Tour set. Apart from the fact that digi images have the versatility of being re sizable they are also instantly accessible (no postie to wait for!) they are never out of stock, printer ink doesn't bleed when you use Copics AND they are cheaper than stamps!

If you'd like to play along with this week's Copics Challenge pop over to the CCC blog for more details.

Thank you for looking and have a lovely day.

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Dottie's World Challenge

2009-03-22T07:04:00.000Z

Hi Mother's day! Have you all been spoiled? I hope you have.

There's a fab challenge over on Dottie's World this week. Adele wants us to use more than one of the Charmed Downloads.

I've used the back and front image of butterfly Dottie, I wasn't sure if that would count so I used it a few times just to make sure!

Here we have Dottie conducting her choir of singing butterflies.This shows you how versatile digital images are, you can make a ready made scene before you've even printed them out!

I have to say, this was a real labour of love but I think it was worth it in the end.

If you'd like to play along or just see what the rest of the DT have come up with pop over to Dottie's World.