Creative Crafting Magazine Christmas 2010

CHRISTMAS 2010

Issue 8

By Crafters for Crafters

www.creative-connections.ning.com

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Editor Anna - The Crystal Lady thecrystallady@creative-crafting.com www.mysticearth.co.uk www.radiancecrystals.co.uk

CREATIVE CRAFTING

Senior Features Writer Diane - Peggy’s Knits http://www.folksy.com/shops/crawlin Feature Writers Tina - In the Garden www.tina-in-the-garden.blogspot.com Amy - Amyorangejuice www.amyorangejuice.co.uk Amy - Miss Baclart Designs www.missbaclartdesigns.co.uk Lisa - Lemonade and Lamingtons www.folksy.com/shops/LemonadeAndLamingtons

Tracey - Wowthankyou www.wowthankyou.co.uk

Welcome to the Christmas issue of Creative Crafting Magazine. We hope you enjoy reading our festive edition. From making your very own Christmas crackers, to baking some gorgeous mince pies, we are sure that there will be something to make your festive season even more special.

Remember to check out our festive Christmas Crafter’s Directory. The perfect place to find beautiful gifts, that are lovingly created and often surprisingly inexpensive!

www.creative-crafting.com

Technical Editor Avril - Sprinkles Sparkles sprinks@creative-crafting.com www.sprinklessparkles.co.uk

Megan - Megan Mackney Jewellery

www.meganmackneyjewellery.com Claire - Elderberry Arts www.elderberryarts.co.uk Hannah - Surf Jewels www.surfjewels.000space.com

Thank you to Diane, our senior features writer, and our regular feature writers this year for making the magazine possible.

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.

Your Creative Team

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In this Issue ......

50

Special Features 13 Have a Handmade Christmas Surf Jewels show us how to bring back the spirit of Christmas by being creative.

22 Tina in the Garden

Lucy Jo Hudson

Another visit with our favourite green fingered friend.

25 Regular Features 7

24 This Month .. Celebrity

Crafters Directory The best place to go when you are looking for that special handcrafted item.

31 Craft Events

The Coronation Street and Wild at Heart star chats to Peggy’s Knits.

27 Crystal Magic A selection of handcrafted gemstone products selected by our Crystal Lady.

28 So Long 2010 - Onwards and Upwards in 2011 Tracey from Wow Thank You talks to crafters about their plans for 2011.

46 Peggy’s Knits guide to starting knitting part 8

Craft Fairs and other events that you can go to, along with some of the crafters that you may find there.

42 Online Street .. Best Picks A wonderful selection of handcrafted items handpicked by Sprinkles Sparkles.

Continuing the popular how to series.

32 Have a very Charitable

58 This Months ...

More winners of our Blog and Shop awards and this issue we have ‘men’ not man of the month!!

Christmas.

Miss Baclart Designs finds some crafters who sell their creations for charity.

47 Weird and Wonderful Crafts Discover unusual and forgotten crafts.

22

56 Budget & Luxury Sprinkles Sparkles finds more craft items from both ends of the price scale.

24 48

www.creative-crafting.com

14

40 Make a Christmas Card

36 34 An Interview with Jesse’s Crafty Corner Find out where Jesse gets her inspiration for her designs.

Bauble Megan Mackney’s fantastic idea for an unusually useful Christmas Card.

44 How to Cross Stitch a ‘Santa’ Angel Crafts shares a festive Cross stitch chart with us.

52 An Interview with Recipes

Kiddie Base

48 Handmade Sparkly

The baby and child online shopping experience.

36 Mince Pies Scrumptious Mince Pies with the help of Peggy’s Knits Mum.

38 German Pfeffernüsse A tasty, unusual dessert from Lemonade and Lamingtons.

Interviews 14 An Interview with Al Brydon A talented photographer from Sheffield. See some of his breathtaking images.

20 An Interview with Rowan Jade Jewellery Meet Sammie, a young jewellery maker from York.

54 An Interview with Dyeing for Yarn Kerry from Liverpool tells us about her love of Yarns and fibres.

Projects & Tutorials 17 Make your own Christmas Crackers A colourful project by Surf Jewels.

18 Make some Snowman

Recycled Paper Our regular Queen of Recycling AmyOrangeJuice shows us another fantastic idea.

50 Make your own Recycled Advent Calendars Heartmade Gifts has some lovely ideas about how to make your own calendars this year.

57 Make a Pom Pom Snowman A great project for the kids by Sprinkles Sparkles.

Earrings Make some festive earrings with Elderberry Arts.

25 Knit yourself a Pom-Pom Christmas Tree Decoration.

Another fabulous Peggy’s Knits tutorial.

as stm ‘ i r h e C Ev

www.creative-connections.ning.com

40 18

Custom made Healing Jewellery ‘Just for you’

Lemonade and Lamingtons

Crafter’s Directory The perfect place to find beautiful gifts Handcrafted items are becoming a popular alternative to mass produced items.

Lovingly created and often surprisingly inexpensive!

Browse through our directory and click on the links to visit a world of beautiful craft shops.

Gimme that thing

Peggy’s Knits Quality knitted items

If you would like to be featured in our directly please visit our website.

Crafter’s Directory The perfect place to find beautiful gifts

Handcrafted items are becoming a popular alternative to mass produced items.

Lovingly created and often surprisingly inexpensive!

Click on the links to visit a world of beautiful craft shops.

Averilpam Design

Handcrafted one of a kind jewellery and bags.

Folksy

Blue Duck Jewellery

Stunning and Unique Hand Made Jewellery.

Folksy

Bubblegumbod Beads

Funky, fun and fresh, jewellery for little girls and big girls, using a variety Folksy of beads and techniques.

Crafty Monster

Jewellery made from cross stitch designs.

Folksy

Created by Carole

Original Designs for Original People - stand out from the crowd with unique or limited edition designer Jewellery & Accessories.

Folksy

Deviant Panda

We make jewellery of an unusual nature...

Folksy

Elderberry Arts

Hand crafted unique and uncommon silver, gemstone, glass, gay and bisexual jewellery.

Website

Flonightingale

Just little pieces of jewellery - affordable and wearable jewellery to put a Folksy smile on your face!

Hollybird Beads

Handmade beadwoven jewellery.

Folksy

JET Jewellery

Handmade Jewellery and cards for all occasions. Bespoke orders.

Folksy

Kokokelli

Gorgeous Handmade Jewellery & Greeting Cards at affordable prices.

Folksy

Laura Groom Jewellery

Unique and quirky jewellery thats fun to wear!

Folksy

Madam CC

Something old, Something new.

Folksy

Leopard Print Bee

Distinctive, Eclectic, Handmade Resin and Circuit Board Jewellery.

Folksy

Lorraine Dowdle

Spoil yourself with artfully interesting lampwork jewellery creations.

Website

Miss Bohemia

Vintage, Gothic & Fairytale Jewellery.

Website

Mystic Earth

Gemstone Healing Jewellery, personal matching service available.

Website

Oldskoolretro Kitsch Boutique

Unique, handmade jewellery, great for Christmas and Birthdays, Custom orders also taken!

Folksy

Pirate Pixie's Treasure Trove

Unique, colourful and varied jewellery and accessories.

Folksy

If you would like to be featured in our directly please visit our website.

Crafter’s Directory The perfect place to find beautiful gifts

Handcrafted items are becoming a popular alternative to mass produced items.

Lovingly created and often surprisingly inexpensive!

Click on the links to visit a world of beautiful craft shops.

Purple Shmurple

Vintage Glass,Wood & Miniature Jewellery.

Website

Snow Queen Trinkets

Kiln Fused Dichroic Glass Jewellery.

Folksy

Sprinkles Sparkles

Bespoke,Handmade Jewellery and Accessories.

Website

Stars&scars

Hand made, hand drawn plastic jewellery for kitsch quirky folks! I love custom orders... if it can be drawn, it can be worn!

Folksy

Surf Jewels

Handmade jewellery sourced from organic and recycled materials.

Website

The Jewellery Angel

Cute, Colourful and Kitsch Jewellery.

Folksy

The Magpie Nest

Distinctive handmade jewellery and accessories.

Website

Unique Beaded Gems

Gemstone Bead Jewellery with a Difference!!

Website

Vintage Beadery

Unique Jewellery made by the sea.

GW&G

Sud’n’Soothe

Juice Bar just got a new meaning.

Website

Miss Baclart Designs

High quality handmade cards, invitations & wedding stationery.

Folksy

Paulines Passions

Handmade cards and Wedding stationary.

Misi

Squaredog

Cards & Gifts inspired by a Square Dog!

Folksy

Radiance Crystals

Bespoke Bridal and Occasion Jewellery.

Website

Skyjewels

Custom made pieces of wedding acessories, from tiaras to crystal bouquets. I also have handmade jewellery available.

Folksy

If you would like to be featured in our directly please visit our website.

Crafter’s Directory The perfect place to find beautiful gifts

Handcrafted items are becoming a popular alternative to mass produced items.

Lovingly created and often surprisingly inexpensive!

Click on the links to visit a world of beautiful craft shops.

Bodkin and Bead

Handmade embroidered accessories. Unique,wearable art.

Folksy

Dottie Designs

Personalised Gifts for Christmas. Keepsake Boxes, Memory Books, Photo Albums and more!

Folksy

Elibee Gifts

Unique and original gift ideas, including clocks, jewellery.

Website

FABRICated

Christmas stockings and Santa sacks.

Folksy

Fleurs de Perles

Hand crafted French Beaded Flowers to last a life time.

Folksy

Kelso Kreations

Handmade Gifts for that special occasion.

Misi

Little Scruffs, Miniature Mohair Artist

Bears with loads of character. Vintage style, collectable.

Website

Moody Cow Designs

Unique handmade handbags and accessories.

Folksy

Orange Bird Studio

Handmade gifts and cards - come and look at our knitted items and hand illustrated cards!

Folksy

Pants and Paper

Unique purses & brooches and other gorgeous gifts.

Folksy

Pip Designs

Ipad Covers, Purses, Handbags - Designer, & Funky Fabrics.

Folksy

Thimble-ina Embroidery

Personalised and handcrafted gifts.

Website

Silver Birch Crafts

Handmade Bags and Personalised Gifts, Created Just For You!

Website

Beads4Breakfast

Artisan lampwork beads made in my kitchen studio. Commissions taken.

Website

Beads and Jewellery Supplies

Unusual Beads and Findings. Beads sold in small pack sizes. Low UK shipping costs. Paypal accepted.

Website

PrintedOnRibbon

Your words or message printed on ribbon!

Folksy

The Little Bead Box

Beautiful Beads and Jewellery Supplies.

Folksy

UK Craft Store

Novelty buttons and more.

Website

If you would like to be featured in our directly please visit our website.

Crafter’s Directory The perfect place to find beautiful gifts

Handcrafted items are becoming a popular alternative to mass produced items.

Lovingly created and often surprisingly inexpensive!

Click on the links to visit a world of beautiful craft shops.

Ann Chandler Originals

Unique bags and accessories in unusual fabrics, including vintage kimono Folksy silks, funky cotton prints and upcycled clothing.

Gaia Noir

Victorian, Steampunk and Gothic accessories, outfits and hairpieces, with Website an eco-friendly (dark) green twist. Custom orders welcome!

UniquelyYours

Unique Accessories for Unique people. Dare to be different! Hats, scarves, bags and many more each one unique.

Folksy

All things Nice

The home of unique affordable arts and crafts.

Folksy

AmyOrangeJuice

Stained Glass Artist.

Website

Court & Spark

Handmade textiles by Philippa Harding...

Folksy

Diomo Glass

A range of Stained Glass Gifts by a Stained Glass Artist. I recycle glass to Folksy create gifts and other novel little items of interest, fun and meaning.

Girlybunches

For all your Handcrafted Crochet Homewares.

Folksy

Heirloom Bunting

Bunting for all occasions and lots more.

Folksy

Jentwinkle

Unique handmade gifts, accessories & homewares.

Folksy

Lemonade and Lamingtons

Homewares & accessories, fresh & exciting!

Folksy

Made by Dolly

Cute and Quirky Homeware and Fun Things for Kids, for Adults, for You! Folksy

One Stop Pamper Shop

We specialise in making the loveliest scented candles you could possibly find! Each lovingly handmade just for you.

Website

Pauline's Candles

The Home of Handmade Soy Wax Pillar and Novelty Candles.

Folksy

Top Floor Treasures

Christmas bunting & decorations, bags and cushions.

Folksy

Cat Among The Pigeons

Colourful handmade: etchings, prints, ceramic brooches, leather/paper brooches.

Folksy

Neate Crafts

Painting, Knitting, Pyrography & lots more.

Misi

If you would like to be featured in our directly please visit our website.

Crafter’s Directory The perfect place to find beautiful gifts

Handcrafted items are becoming a popular alternative to mass produced items.

Lovingly created and often surprisingly inexpensive!

Click on the links to visit a world of beautiful craft shops.

Crafty Goates

Children's handcrafted room accessories.

Website

Gypsy Rose Designs

Handmade, recycled stunning children’s clothing from 0 - 10 years.

Excellent value. The clothes is of the highest quality !!

Folksy

Heart in a Box

The home of adorable birth announcements, unique heart sentiment plaques and exclusive framed heart gifts.

Folksy

Painted Ghost

Fun and funky Accessories for babies and adults.

Folksy

Zygote Gifts

Handmade, unique, cards & gifts to celebrate a new baby, wedding or other occasion. Cherish your memories...

Folksy

Abstract Cat Crafts

Colourful, high quality hand-dyed and hand-painted knitting yarn.

Website

And Other Stories

Whimsical delights for you and your home.

Folksy

Bits and Bobs Craft

Eclectic range of vintage style knit, crochet and fabric accessories created from upcycled or surplus materials.

Folksy

Joyknitt

Joyknitt Knits.

Misi

NOfkants Curios

Hand Knitted and Crocheted Unique Handbags.

Folksy

Peggy’s Knits

Quality knitted items.

Folksy

Pipistrelle

Natural fibre handbags, accessories and British breed yarns.

Etsy

The Crafty Bride

Lace wedding shawls, bridesmaids capes, dolly bags, hats,scarves, boas and more.

Folksy

Wharfedale Woolworks

Hand painted yarns and custom knits.

Folksy

All advertisements have click through links enabling new customers to visit your site or online store straight from the magazine.

Our back issues also remain online for new readers to find.

You can purchase adverts in our directory from £2 per single issue. Graphic Adverts can also be purchased or received if you submit an article that we publish.

If you would like to be featured in our directly please visit our website.

Have a Handmade

Christmas

Christmas doesn’t have to cost the earth and can be a lot of fun too.

I love Christmas, just like a little kid, even when there are so many people about saying how they hate it and hate all the shopping and having to think about all the presents. I still love it. I love all the preparations, and it’s just a shame when you get to the day it all goes so quickly.

I think I like the preparations more than the actual day really. I love thinking up ideas, making all the cards and the presents, although I do love giving people their presents too.

Ok so let’s address the issues from those who don’t seem to like this time of year. ! It doesn’t have to be, and to Number one - Christmas is my mind it can be cheap and much more fun that way as well. At Christmas I love to make things and making presents and gifts is a great way to save money, but also to give something totally personal and something that a lot of time and thought went into.

Issue number two - Christmas is too commercial, again it doesn’t have to be, if you have a little time there are so many different things you can make. I love to make jams and chutneys, biscuits and sweets (everyone loves food). These packaged in nice boxes or jars look lovely and make great presents. They are fairly quick to do too if you’re a little busy and short of time.

If you are feeling a little more ambitious then why not try making stockings, these make a great alternative to wrapping presents, they can be reused and they save on waste and paper too. You can also make Christmas decorations that will make a great addition to your tree each year and make cards yourself, which a really nice personal touch.

If you are like me, and I love to make things all year around, then you could well have other skills that could be utilised at this time of year. I like to knit and crochet, so often people get knitted socks, scarves or the like from me. I also make jewellery, so this is something else people may receive.

Issue number three - Christmas has lost its magic. I don’t think so, but if you do feel that way - bring it back. Why not learn a new skill or try out a new craft you’ve not tried before and make lots of presents for all your friends and family. I find I make so many things that making them as gifts mean they have a nice home to go to. Why not learn how to make a stuffed teddy or toy and give these away as gifts?

On Christmas day when everyone receives their gifts it will make all the time and effort you put into them worth the while and make Christmas this year a little more special.

Written by Surf Jewels - Handmade Ethical Jewellery http://surfjewels.000space.com

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Al Brydon. I live with my partner in Sheffield. This is situated in the North (the cold bit) of the UK. I am a Photographer specialising in fine art landscape imagery.

When did your crafting begin, and why?

I was given an ancient film camera by my father around the age of five or six. I used to put model dinosaurs in the garden and try and make them look like the stills from Sinbad the Sailor films. Fast forward eleven years and I enrolled at Art College. I spent my first year smoking cigarettes and trying to pick up girls, as young men do, but then completed a photography module which got me hooked, I then spent the last year at college studying photography specialising in portraiture. The next step was University and a HND in Photography (a two year course which gave me the grounding in photographic technique I lacked) . This was followed by a post graduate course at the Picture House in Leicester. It wasn’t until relatively recently that I found my feet and started producing work I was happy with. I started my own business about a year and a half ago and began selling prints online about 8 months after that.

And here we are today.

What was the first item you made to sell online?

The first photograph I sold through Etsy was an image I had made on a return journey from an unsuccessful shoot out in the wilds of Derbyshire on a miserable winter’s morning.

The light was really rubbish and after three hours standing on a rock in the wind I packed up and went home. On the way I saw a gnarled tree suddenly illuminated and pulled the car over (safely) to make my photograph.

And then some kind soul bought it.

What is your biggest crafting achievement, and why?

It has to be leaving a full time job and starting my own photography business. It was a huge decision for me and very scary. I still have days where I think aaaaargh but then there are other days when I’m out making images and I think Yeeeeees.

Where would you like to be in 5 years?

I would like my business to evolve over time and would love to run starter courses for people with an interest in making pictures and obviously continue my own education.

That’s the best thing about photography, you never stop learning. If it got to the stage where I am making a comfortable living and still evolving as an artist I will be happy.

Where does your inspiration come from?

My main inspiration comes from my surroundings. I can drive for twenty minutes and be out of the city into amazing scenery. There is a ruggedness and drama to the Peak District that I find extremely compelling. It’s not hard to want to immerse yourself in it. I also get a lot of inspiration from fellow photographers, some professional and some amateur. I would like to point out that the distinction between amateur and professional is certainly not talent.

What are your favourite materials, and why?

I use both film and digital cameras. Film has a unique, almost organic, quality and I still love the anticipation of getting films back from the lab. Digital is great and very convenient. I use it 80% of the time. I just seem to have more fun with film. I bought a plastic Holga camera a few years ago and use this for my film landscapes. It adds a dreamy surreal quality to my images which compliments the ruggedness of the surrounding area.

Has any person helped or supported you more than any other?

My poor long suffering partner Jen has to be mentioned who I tricked into liking me over 5 years ago. She is a star. Whenever I fall over she picks me up and dusts me down.

What is favourite shop online, that isn’t yours, and why?

My favourite shop is by another photographer called Randy Roberts, http://www.etsy.com/shop/rrobertsphoto.

He makes amazing images. Loads of drama. I love images that show a darkness to the world and this guy’s work has it in bags.

Tell us a random fact about yourself!

I have a crippling fear of spiders.

www.albrydonphotography.co.uk http://www.etsy.com/shop/AlBrydonPhotography

You can visit Al Brydon through his website or his Etsy store and see more of his beautiful images.

Make your own...

Christmas Crackers What you need: Toilet or Kitchen Roll Wrapping Paper Ribbon or String Glue

Step 1 Cut one of the toilet rolls in half and line up like this.

Step 2 Cut a piece of wrapping paper big enough to go all the way around the tubes.

Wrapping paper

Step 3 Roll the paper around the tube and glue in place. Then glue each end under.

Cut it a little longer at each end, so that you can glue the ends under Step 4 Use some ribbon to tie in place (not forgetting to put in a little gift!)

Step 5 Tie the ribbon in place and you are done!

The opportunities are endless. You can use all kinds of paper, from brown to something colourful.

If you want your crackers to go off with a bang, you can buy cracker snaps online or in art shops

You can decorate with ribbon or string, Written by Surf Jewels - Handmade Ethical Jewellery even use holly and ivy for a natural finish. http://surfjewels.000space.com

makes

Snowman Earrings What you will need 2 x 10mm white glass beads 2 x 6mm white glass beads 2 x 6mm crystal rondelle 2 x 4mm hematite disk bead 2 x 3mm hematite cube bead 2 x 2 inch head pin Pair of round nose cutters, side cutters, and flat nose pliers These snowman charms could also be used to make pendants (add a jump ring and thread onto a chain), key rings, bag charms or as bracelet charms.

Step 1. Place a 10mm white bead on one of the head pins.

Step 2. Add a rondelle and the 6mm white bead on top of the 10mm bead.

Step 3. Now add the hematite disk and cube to make the snowman's hat

Step 5. Attach an earwire to the hoop.

Step 6. Repeat steps 1 - 5 to create a second snowman.

To learn more about making loops and attaching earwires, check out our ‘Beginners Guide to Making Earrings'

Step 4. Fold over the headpin.

Make a loop in the end, trimming off any excess wire first if needed.

This project was written

by Claire from Elderberry Arts. www.elderberryarts.co.uk

Quality Knitted Items

Made with love and care.

Peggy’s Knits http://www.folksy.com/shops/crawlin

http://www.folksy.com/shops/RowanJadeJewellery

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Sammie Richardson-Parks I am the maker of Rowan Jade Jewellery. I am 22 years old and have a 4 year old son (who always wants to "help" make necklaces). I have a small but supportive family that keep pushing me to go further with my craft. I make Jewellery and get so excited with new beads and shiny things. I live in the beautiful City of York that has some great historical buildings and dwellings, it gives me a lot of future inspirations for my pieces.

When did your crafting begin, and why?

I began making jewellery just over a month ago and I honestly do not know where the idea stemmed from, I've always been quite a creative person but so far never found that one thing that just suits me so well, until I began making my Jewellery. Ever since then I have found a true love for this craft and feel genuinely at home when I have my boxes of supplies sat in front of me.

What was the first item you made to sell online?

The first ever item I made was a simple pair of earrings made using ab shell hexagon pieces that came in 3 different colours.

Someone asked for one of each colour and right at that moment I realised I was making saleable items and uploaded the earrings to eBay straight away.

What was your biggest crafting achievement, and why?

My biggest crafting achievement so far is a beautiful necklace and bracelet set I made from a bunch of de-stash earrings. I fell in love with this item the moment I made it and was adamant to sell it. I decided I would wear it one night out, so then it was not for sale. The night out ended in someone liking the set so much that they offered to buy it there and then. To me that was my biggest achievement as I was out on a night out, not as a jewellery maker who sold items, yet I still managed to make a sale.

Other than crafting, what else do you like to do?

Barring when I have my head stuck in my supplies boxes, I enjoy spending valuable time with my young son, my wonderful family and friends and my amazing partner. In past times I have enjoyed writing poetry. Currently I am thinking of things I can do or make to include poetry in, so I may need to open another shop one day if I do think of something.

Babies Rosary Bracelet Ideal Christening Gift.

http://www.folksy.com/shops/RowanJadeJewellery

Where would you like to be in 5 years?

In 5 years I would obviously love to be sat behind the counter of a little shop stocking my jewellery and other handmade items with my name above the shop door.

Where does your inspiration come from?

Blue Glass Bead Bracelet

My inspiration comes from a lot of things. I love different cultures, styles, colours. I like to think I don't have one style of jewellery and try to make a difference in all the pieces I make, whether it be vintage, colourful or even bizarre. I find inspiration just from looking at things outside the box rather then their original use.

What are your favourite materials, and why?

My favourite materials at the moment are Faux pearls, shell beads and anything antique and vintage looking. I love Faux pearl and shell as I feel each piece I make with these materials looks so elegant and stylish. Antique and vintage materials I just can't help but like as they seem to tell a story about the person who wears them or even crafts with them.

What is your favourite shop online, that isn’t yours, and why?

Sky Dreamer Bracelet My Favourite shop online is a fellow Folksy member, Gelert Designs.

This shop is my favourite as the items created are truly exquisite and you can tell there has been a great amount of effort and work put into each individual piece. There is a variety of items with a price for every budget and I like that about this shop.

Has any person helped or supported you more than any other?

I must say my Partner has been a rock, he helped me get sorted with buying supplies and constantly gives me his honest opinions in anything I have made. He is always there with a supportive hug any time I need one. My Best Friend Emily has also been a huge support.

Tell us a random fact about yourself!

Eccentric Purple A random fact about me! Well, my Christian name is Samantha, but Bracelet not sure its very Christian to name your child after Samantha Fox in her page 3 days. Ha ha!

Visit Sammie’s Folksy Store

ie m Sam

http://www.folksy.com/shops/RowanJadeJewellery?page=1

Visit the Rowan Jade Jewellery Facebook Page http://www.facebook.com/rowanjadejewellery

in the Garden Hi I’m Tina, Well it’s so good to meet with you all again. Thank you for taking the time as I know you are all very busy preparing for Christmas.

Sit down, well just anywhere, oh that’s great yes just squeeze over a tad, wonderful.

The kettle is singing, and I have some lovely cake, well just a little slice, remember we must not over indulge, well not until Christmas anyway.

The garden is dressed for Christmas with the sparkling red berries of the holly, and the ivy trailing with glossy green leaves and deep black berries. The trees just look wonderful after the rain, shinning with all the rain drops, we could never decorate a tree so perfectly.

Here are some photos of the last roses to bloom, it has been very good year for them.

Most of the bedding plants have been removed from the pots, but some are still blooming and I do not have the heart to throw them on the compost heap, so am still enjoying them.

The empty pots are all planted with the spring bulbs, and wallflowers, don’t you just adore their scent, and tucked up warm under the fallen leaves just waiting for spring. duced rack Plant from the re

As this is after all a crafting magazine, and I am just an interloper I thought that maybe I should share with you some of my Christmas present ideas. Now do remember as I said I am a gardener not a crafter, bear with me please.

When I visit any garden centre I always make for the reduced plant section, almost all of these poor things need is a little TLC and mostly just some water, but be warned some really are dead so check them well.

As soon as you get the plant home stand it in a container of water, in the shade until the soil is moist.

Some, as the one on my photo are made up of a number of small individual plants which makes them easy to divide, if you try to divide one big root sometimes it works, but I prefer the easy way.

As you can see from the photos it is very easy, just pot up the small plants with some compost, top with a little gravel and stand in a container of water again until the compost is moist, remove and that’s it, but do not forget to keep an eye on them as with all plants keep them moist but not wet.

The Basil; I bought it from the supermarket, in a bag, to use for cooking; if you put it in a small pot as you would flowers, keep the water topped up in a cool place it will make roots in a couple of weeks, but keep an eye on it as some may rot. When the roots are formed just pot up in compost, top with a little gravel, then it can be displayed in any container you wish. I just used a coffee cup I had in the cupboard.

The other two ideas are even easier, the little teapot was picked up from a boot sale and the cup and saucer was left from a set, yes the other one had an accident. Any plant can be used for these provided of course they are in a very small pot.

Just put the small pot into the teapot or the cup, finish with a little gravel and your done. Also the plants can be changed so easily in just a minute.

The herbs in the mugs are easy too, just a little compost and top with gravel. These however are not so easy to change the plants and the watering also has to be watched more as there is no drainage in the mugs.

Well those are some of my present ideas, I have packaged them for Christmas, and yes I know my package ideas are rubbish so I will not dwell on those, but I can just imagine what some of you could come up with in the way of packaging.

I hope these ideas are of interest to you, I just hope that I get the photos in the right order, but then again my dear friend The Crystal Lady bless her will sort them out, what would I do without her.

Well the rain is still coming down gently outside , we have finished our tea and our slice of cake, yes just the one, so I will say goodbye to you all, have a wonderful Christmas and I look forward to meeting with you all again in the New Year.

Your green fingered friend,

www.tina-in-the-garden.blogspot.com

Charlie is getting ready for Christm as!

This Month

Celebrity Lucy Jo Hudson Lucy-Jo Hudson is a British actress, best known for playing the role of Katy Harris in Coronation Street and Rosie in the ITV drama Wild at Heart.

She is set to return for the sixth series of Wild at Heart in early 2011. She is married to Coronation Street actor Alan Halsall who plays the role of Tyrone Dobbs.

Recently I have been talking to Lucy-Jo Hudson on twitter and she has kindly agreed to me posting a picture of her in one of my creations, which is a ruffle scarf and is in my folksy shop.

Check out the scarf Lucy Jo Hudson is wearing. It was handmade

by Peggy’s Knits!

Lucy-Jo Hudson used to sew as a child and she enjoyed this a lot. She had a go at knitting, but that wasn’t for her. She had a sewing machine when she was younger and used to love making skirts from old jeans. She found this quite relaxing and said she may get back into it again.

Written by Peggy’s Knits http://www.folksy.com/shops/crawlin

Knit yourself a

Pom-Pom Christmas Tree decoration this year.

What you will need 3mm needles Darning needle Dk yarn Glue Embellishments

Pattern Cast on 44 stitches in green (or whatever colour you would want your Christmas tree to be.)

Stocking stitch for 8 rows.

K2, K2tog to end.

Stocking stitch for 7 rows.

K1, K2tog to end.

Stocking stitch for 7 rows.

K2tog to end.

Bind off by putting the thread through the remaining stitches.

For the Christmas tree tub cast on 12 stitches and stocking stitch for 5 rows then cast off.

Making Up Over sew all row ends together and with the seam at the back, over sew.

Do the same with the Christmas tree tub and sew onto the Christmas tree.

Next glue on your embellishments, this is where you can be as creative as you wish.

Add a piece of yarn at the top of the Christmas tree so it can hang on your very own Christmas tree at home.

Have a Great Crafting Christmas everyone

Written by Peggy’s Knits http://www.folksy.com/shops/crawlin

MYSTIC EARTH Have you ever thought of having a piece of Gemstone and Crystal Healing Jewellery created ‘just for you’ Each stone matched to your needs!

The Crystal Lady at Mystic Earth can offer you this service.

These pieces of unique jewellery make the perfect gift for a loved one or a much needed treat for yourself.

Beautiful Jewellery to help you through life!

http://www.mysticearth.co.uk

Mother Nature has provided us with wonderful Healing Gemstones and Minerals.

For this Issue, discover the beauty of

Emerald Be3Al2(Si6O18)+K,Li,Na+(Cr)i

In old cultures of Europe and India emerald was considered to be the stone of divine inspiration.

Mentally - Spiritual Growth, friendship, love and unity.

Physically - works with: Sinuses, upper respiratory tract, heart and liver.

Alleviates rheumatism and strengthens the immune system.

Chakra - Heart.

$89

$76 Emeraude Gold Woven Wire Cross Pendant with Emeralds

May’s Emerald Shines

ÂŁ129 18 Carat Teardrop Emerald

If you would like more information about Crystal Healing Jewellery, you can contact The Crystal Lady at: thecrystallady@mysticearth.co.uk or visit http://www.mysticearth.co.uk

$120 Emerald and Herkimer Diamond Pendan

$98 Silver Horse Emerald Pendant

$30 Tree of Life Necklace

Well, how was 2010 for you? Did the recession bite? Were customers hard to find? Or has business really taken off beyond all expectations? For most of us, it’s been a mixed bag of success and disappointment. If you are reading this early in December you are hopefully up to your necks in Christmas orders – if that phase has past, then perhaps you are looking ahead and wondering what lies in store for you in 2011? An inevitable event is the VAT increase to 20% in January and no one is quite sure how this will affect business and sales. As many small craft businesses are not VAT registered, this could in fact work in our favour as we won’t have to increase prices or accept less profit in order to accommodate this massive taxation leap.

On a lighter note the post-Christmas period is no time to rest on your laurels, there are new designs to be thought of and products to make ready for the Spring when the world wakes up again. You may need to expand or source new supplies of material, perhaps certain fairs were a disappointment last year so you need to rethink your plans for next year? What lessons are to be learned from the events of the previous year - what could you do better? Creative Crafting asked several WowThankYou designers/sellers about their experiences and expectations for the New Year ahead.

Pandy Grenville-Evans of Princess Kitten has some sterling advice which might be very moot at this time of the year when excess is the watchword. “

” In addition she tends towards self and business improvement. “

.”

Gabrielle Harris of London Cows has reached a stage where the success of her business has really started to take off and her thinking now is to capitalise on this in the New Year. “

” She continues. “ Cont ....

” Louise of Twisted Trinkets believes in self improvement and investing in her successful business. “

For new kids on the block she says “ .”

Maggy Woodley of Red Ted Art is really upbeat at the moment as she has discovered new aspects to her business that has proved to be lucrative and interesting. “

” She hopes to capitalise on the success of 2010 by producing 52 new Tutorials and 52 new Kids Craft ideas. “ ” She says. “ ” She gives her advice for a successful and harmonious business. “

” Cont ....

Nicky McAlindon of Hebridean Humpties has also had a good year and has arranged some collaboration for 2011, which should give her some excellent exposure. “

” The development of a hobby into a business can be a very daunting prospect. The key thing is to enjoy it – don’t lose the fun of it just because it’s become an income-generator. Plan ahead and set yourself some achievable goals. Here at WowThankYou we have a massive year ahead of us. 2010 represented our step onto the bottom rung of the e-commerce ladder ... during the year we’ve occasionally climbed a step, and at other times we’ve bruised our bottoms when falling back to earth with a bump! But, wow, what a learning curve! The start of 2011, for us, represents our reincarnation into the website you all want it to be. Our re-launch process actually starts today, as in this publication is our new advert, with our new logo and our new image. We hope you like it. So 2011 for us will be promoting, promoting, promoting ... Where do we want to be this time next year? Well, we know – but best we keep this information to ourselves, for now!

Perhaps you should take a few moments now to decide where you want to be this time next year – because we’ll be back to ask how it went!

Until then, Merry Christmas to one and all and here’s hoping for an amazingly wonderful 2011 for all of us. x

This article was written by from http://www.wowthankyou.co.uk

CRAFT EVENTS! There is a big event happening this December, organised by a Folksy Seller where you will find other Folksy Folk selling their creations.

The Contemporary Crafts Shopping Experience is being held at the Warwickshire Exhibition Centre, Fosse Way, Nr Leamington Spa SAT NAV CV31 1XN On the Junction of the A425/B4455 From 10.00am - 4.00pm on Sunday 5th December 2010 For more information please visit http://www.craftshoppingexperience.co.uk The event has been organised by Lady Luck Jewellery Some of the Folksy Folk attending are: Sixes and Sevens Charlotte Hupfield Ceramics Pennydog Jewellery Framedup Annette’s Allsorts Cloth and Soul Illustration Creative Bumble Bee

If you would like to tell us about a Craft Fair or Event that you will be attending, please email us at: Thecrystallady@creative-crafting.com

Event on this page

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Have a very Charitable Christmas Christmas is such a wonderful time of year. It’s about spending time with your loved ones, decorating your home with lovely sparkly items, spreading festive joy and remembering our own personal reasons for celebrating this exciting time of year. There’s lots of lovely food; turkey, stuffing, mince pies, cake, brandy butter, mulled wine, chocolates… need I go on! It’s a wintry, glittery, magical time of year that we spend months planning and days enjoying.

But, like everything, there is always the flip side of the coin. Unfortunately, not everyone enjoys a happy or lavish Christmas, not everyone gets to share Christmas with their loved ones and some people need help from others to get through illnesses or personal traumas. But every year, there is a selection of people that make the effort to pass on the joys of Christmas to those less fortunate than most; people that make a difference to others. Christmas is not just about all of the good things, it’s about remembering those that don’t have all those good things in their lives. Christmas is a time for giving.

There are so many worthy charities out there who help so many people, not only at Christmas, but all year round and ‘us’ in the crafting world are trying to do our bit to help too. In the interest of spreading Peace and Goodwill to all Men, here are a couple of lovely crafters who are donating their hard earned cash to some really well deserved charities this Christmas:

Madam CC My makers name is Madam CC, but my real name is Cara Codd. I make a range of Vintage Inspired Jewellery, cards & accessories, using a range of recycled fabrics, materials & jewellery, mixing with new pearls, crystals and beads. I create statement one-off pieces mainly for strong, individual women. I also make resin and silver jewellery, along the same lines.

I currently have on sale a range of Handmade Vintage Inspired Christmas Carol Badge Cards for £3 each, where 50% of each sale will be donated to Christies NHS Trust Foundation. I am also selling Handmade Christies Christmas Tree Decorations for £6.50 with 50% being donated to them also.

The reason I have chosen this charity is because they saved my life and treated and cared for a close friend. I was diagnosed with advanced cervical cancer in August 2006 and I was very lucky to survive it. I only did due to the speedy treatment and ongoing care from Christies. They were and are fantastic and it is amazing the work they do and scary when you realise how many people they have to treat and care for. Unfortunately my friend Jackie was not so lucky to survive and I wanted to do something regularly which in some way raises the much needed funds to help the charity continue its stellar work. So every 3 months I will make a batch of items that raise funds for Christies. I pledge to do this as long as I am able to. Due to the illness I had, I can't fundraise through runs or walks so this is my small regular contribution. Doing what I know best, Making.

Visit Cara’s wonderful Folksy shops at: www.folksy.com/shops/madamcc (for jewellery & accessories) www.folksy.com/shops/madamcccards (for cards) www.madamcc.co.uk (has a slideshow of many of my items for sale).

Macmillan Fundraising My name is Kaz Molloy and I live on Isle of Bute off the west coast of Scotland. I love playing with beads and making jewellery. It started off many years ago, as I used to make my own earrings as I didn’t have pierced ears and didn't like the sort of clip-on earrings that were available. So I bought myself some clip-on findings and would convert to pretty, dangly, pierced ones!!

I started my fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Care as I was diagnosed with womb cancer in Dec 2009 and have been fortunate to have had a wonderful Macmillan nurse called Morag, who has been my rock throughout me having my chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment. As Macmillan are a charity, I decided to put my jewellery making to good use and started to make items to raise funds for them, but with a bit of a twist!! Being a keen recycler, I decided to re-use old and broken jewellery that I bought from the local charity shops on the island, (including the Cancer Research UK shop) and after mentioning it on the Folksy forums, I had other sellers sending me parcels of unwanted beads and people would send me little parcels of broken necklaces! It was wonderful!

I started a separate Folksy store so that I could keep track of the donations - 100% of the proceeds of each sale goes to Macmillan. So far, I have donated over £200 to Macmillan through sales of my jewellery. That includes money from other sellers on Folksy who kindly donated the proceeds from items sold in their own stores! I gave some of them a mention in my blog http://buteartism.blogspot.com If you want a link to Macmillan - here it is http://www.macmillan.org.uk Visit Kaz’s wonderful Folksy shop, Macmillan Fundraising, at: http://www.folksy.com/shops/MacmillanFundraising

Miss Baclart Designs As Christmas is a time for giving, I decided that I would do my bit for charity this year and I am currently featuring these ‘Naughty Little Ginger Bread People’ on a pack of 4 Christmas cards, which are available in my Folksy Shop for £3.50, with 100% of the proceeds going to Macmillan Cancer Care, via the wonderful Kaz of Macmillan Fundraising. So far I’ve sold two packs and have three more available, so get in whilst you can!

So there you are, whilst you’re tucking in to your turkey and laughing with your families over board games this Christmas, just take a moment to remember those people who are less fortunate than you; those that may be in a shelter this Christmas, or those that are feeling lonely and scared. If you have time this festive season, do try to have a look at the wonderful items I’ve included in this article and if you can, why not treat yourself to a charitable, festive delight!

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Thank you to everyone at Creative-Crafting for giving us such wonderful publications throughout the year, have a drink on us this Christmas!

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night! Amy x This article was written by Amy Bartlett From Miss Baclart Designs http://www.missbaclartdesigns.co.uk

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Jesse Holliland and I currently live in Plymouth Devon.

I'm a mum and I've also gone back to college to do an art and design course which I'm in the final year of, hoping to go to Uni next year to do my Degree in Creative Arts Therapies. We're all a bit nuts and it’s busy in my house ALL the time. I am a fiend for learning new crafts, I taught myself to knit, crochet, Needle Felt, jewellery making (to a small level), bookbinding and sewing.

Reading patterns is a pet hate of mine so I tend to make my own.

I'm very proud to say I also taught my Partner Jude to knit and crochet and he's loving it! I'm currently learning Rag rugging, hand spinning and Tatting... strange old skills that I love to rediscover! My friends refer to my house as Jesse's craft shop as its packed with bits and bobs for every type of craft you can imagine. Dyes, wool, crochet hooks, wire and pliers are integral pieces of the furniture.

When did your crafting begin, and why?

I don't remember when I started crafting. I've always been arty and I remember making paper in Junior school and thinking ' I can do that'. I don't think my mum ever forgave me for the mess I made in the bathroom! I took it up again properly about 4 years ago though. I was making small pieces of jewellery and it went from there. I collect old craft books, I have some absolute classics from the 50's and 70's. I’m just waiting for the styles to come back in to fashion.

What was the first item you made to sell online?

The first Item i made to sell online was a button bracelet I think. I'd done a few craft fairs and I heard of Etsy and just thought, well why not?!?! I've collected Vintage buttons since I was little and my nan gave me her collection so it seemed like time to do something with them.

What is your biggest crafting achievement, and why?

My biggest crafting achievement is difficult to choose because I love most of the the things I make. I've recently learnt freehand machine embroidery and I'm loving what I can make with it, it’s like painting with threads. But if I have to choose I think its a nuno felted hand embroidered, fabric painting I made for a study last year. It took ages and Its still not completely finished, I think its something you could just keep adding to and I'm considering machine embroidering it maybe?

Where would you like to be in 5 years?

In 5 years I think I would like to be working with the health industry bringing crafts and art to other people, I can't see that stopping me building my shops though. I'd like to have expanded out to do workshops and things like that, I think that craft has huge therapy potential and that everyone can do SOMETHING.

Other than crafting, what else do you like to do?

I read a lot when I'm not crafting and I love to draw, but that said I always seem to have craft projects that need finishing so free time is limited. I love to go and see the sea now I'm here on the coast but I don't get there as often as I'd like.

Where does your inspiration come from?

My inspiration is just from what’s around me. I see things or colours and I think oooh!!! Sometimes if I get stuck for ideas I find Jude, my partner is helpful when he least expects it. When I started making Needle felted brooches he came up with the Bumble bee Idea and from there the whole creature family has grown. I love them, Mrs Ladybird is my best seller and Cynthia the most complicated needlework I've done.

What are your favourite materials, and why?

I said before that I like to flit between crafts so choosing a favourite material isn't easy. I do often find myself drawn to fibres though. I'm loving all the things you can do with Wool tops, the spectrum of colours and the way you can mix them like paint is great for me and so much fun! I actually dyed and spun my own wool a few weeks back and I'm going to felt it and embroider it soon, another unfinished project! So wool maybe, which is extra interesting as I'm allergic to it so I can't wear anything I make.

Has any person helped or supported you more than any other?

I'm very lucky and I've had a lot of support from everyone close to me. But one person in particular was a huge help when I started to try and knit and that was a lovely lady who I've known since school named Melanie. Trying to teach yourself to Rib is hellish and if it wasn't for her I'd probably have burnt the lot and never picked up needles again! Thanks Melanie!

What is favourite shop online, that isn’t yours, and why?

I have SOOOO many Favourite shops online, there’s so many talented and inspired people out there. I'm going to choose another Folksy shop though, There’s a lady named Denise who runs Littledaydreamers and she is so talented!!! She creates applique work, drawing sets to hold books and pens, keyrings and bags and I envy her stitching precision. She has a great eye for fabrics that work together and her Moo bags are just adorable! http://www.folksy.com/shops/Littledaydreamers Tell us a random fact about yourself!

A random fact about me... wow there are so many random things about me!! How about the fact that I have mild OCD when it comes to other peoples germs but I have a fascination with germs in a crafty and arty perspective. In fact after Christmas I'm opening a shop to sell stuff that is all inspired by them so watch this space... GermyNation is coming soon! http://www.etsy.com/shop/jesselula

http://www.jesselu.folksy.com

INGREDIENTS

8oz self raising flour Half a teaspoon of salt 2oz lard 2oz margerine 6-8 teaspoons of cold water 1oz castar sugar (optional)

This is a great recipe to freeze so can be made up and taken out of the freezer whenever you want them.

This is perfect for the busy time of Christmas!!

This recipe was provided by Peggy’s Knits’ Mum http://www.folksy.com/shops/crawlin

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Mix flour and salt in a bowl then rub in the lard and margarine. Using a knife to cut and stir, mix with cold water to form a stiff paste.

2. Turn dough onto a floured board or worktop and roll out.

3. Make 12 large rounds and 12 medium ones.

4. Grease the bun tins.

5. Place the large rounds in the tin. Add a good teaspoon of mincemeat, then put the medium rounds onto the top.

6. Crinkle the edges, make a little hole in the top with a fork then brush with milk.

7. Put in the oven at 190c for about 15-20 minutes.

8. Place to cool down on a cake rack and sprinkle a little castar sugar over the top.

If you have a favourite recipe that you would like to share, please send it to: thecrystallady@creative-crafting.com

INGREDIENTS

4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ground white pepper 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 3/4 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup butter, softened 1 1/4 cups packed brown sugar 2 eggs

This recipe was provided by Lisa from ‘Lemonade and Lamingtons’ Lemonade and Lamingtons

http://www.folksy.com/shops/LemonadeAndLamingtons

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees C. 2. Combine dry ingredients and set aside.

3. In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

4. Stir in dry ingredients 1/2 cup at a time. Add almonds, if desired.

5. Roll into one inch balls and arrange 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheet.

Bake 11 to 14 minutes.

6. Cool and store in airtight containers for 3 days to mellow flavours.

If you have a favourite recipe that you would like to share, please send it to: thecrystallady@creative-crafting.com

Christmas Card Bauble What you will need One A4 sheet of paper or thin card. coloured, or you can colour your own with potato stamps, drawings, sprinkly glitter etc etc., but don’t use stickers as they can catch! One sheet will make two medium baubles, but again you can experiment with sizes.

Hole punch Pencil (I used a biro for clarity but you can use a pencil so it doesn’t show too much.)

Fancy silver or gold pen (couldn’t find mine!)

Split pins Thin cord – the sparkly stuff you can find in hobby shops, or any strong thin cord.

Tassel (usually easier to make your own with the sparkly cord!)

Ruler

Step 1. Fold the A4 sheet in half from the top short side down to the bottom short side and rule lines across it from the fold to the edge with the pencil about ½” or 7mm apart.

Step 2. Separate the two halves and put the non-ruled piece away for another bauble.

Cut the paper into strips.

Step 3. Take 14 of the strips and punch a hole in them at the top and bottom. Be as careful as you can – you may not get all the strips into the punch, so be sure to put the paper strips in the same place when you punch them.

Then bend the legs of the pin in half back on themselves and flatten.

Step 4. Push a split pin through the strips with the decorated side on the outside, and bend the pins flat. Turn the strips over and write your message on the top strip. You can do something much more elaborate than me!

Pull the cord down to the other end until the strips bend into a bow shape – judge for yourself how tight you want to make it – Step 5. Turn them back, take it’s best as a gentle bow. Secure a length of the thin cord, and the end of the cord behind the carefully wrap behind the legs split pin at the bottom, and bend of the split pin at the top. the legs back.

Wrap a few times and make sure it’s secure behind the pin.

Step 6. Take a length of cord and make a hanging loop, (about 2-3 inches doubled over and knotted) then secure it behind the head of the split pin by wrapping it around the back of the head – pull the two sides of the loop either side of the head of the pin Attach a tassel to the headpin on the bottom of the strips in the same way (you can make a tassel with lengths of cord tied in the middle, fold in half, then wrap a short piece of cord a few millimetres down the bundle, thread a length of cord through the loop above the short cord, tie for a hanging loop ). Make sure the hanging loop is on each side of the pin head.

That’s the bauble finished - this is how you send it, in a bow shape. I usually put a little card with instructions on how to turn the card into a bauble, with the card!

To turn the card into a bauble – gently tease the strips out, starting with the top one with the greeting. Pull this one out opposite the bundle, and then gently spread out the strips to fill in the gaps – being careful to pull them out in order. Check to make sure they are all out. Very gently, hold the bauble between thumb and finger and squeeze together so you can see how even the strips are - this is VERY GENTLE – you don’t want to crease the centre of the bauble strips.

Adjust the strips so they are as even as possible.

Let the bauble go, hold by the hanging loop, adjust the shape – and hang up!

This article was written by Megan Mackney http://www.meganmackneyjewellery.com http://www.facebook.com/pages/ Lymington-United-Kingdom/MeganMackney-Jewellery/48405845004

y r r Me tmas s i r Ch

Online Street Favourite finds from around the crafting community This months focus is Christmas!

Click on the images to take you to their store!

MISI

Patchwork Tree Decoration Follow My Thread £2.00

Camper Van Cards - Set of 5 Art by Mimi £6.50

Time To Read Bookmark Designs By Isis £10.00

FOLKSY

Fused Glass Christmas Tree Decoration Blue Daisy Glass £7.00

Christmas Stocking FABRICatedby £25.00

Fun Christmas Cake Necklace Miss Pollys Handmade Jewellery £12.00

WOW THANKYOU

12 Snowflake Christmas Cupcakes Fairly Cupcakes £35.00

Button Notecard - Festive Tree Milomade £3.95 (inc p&p)

Rudolph Christmas Cards Red Ted Art £3.50 (inc p&p)

All prices correct at the time of publication

Best Picks Favourite finds from around the crafting community This months focus is Halloween!

Click on the images to take you to their store!

CREATIVE STORES

Christmas Themed Charm Bracelet The Christmas Store £8.99

Seasons Greetings lenthaycards £1.30

Small Snowflake Tree Decoration Gemma Mays Gems £1.00

ETSY

Children's Wooden Toy Tool Set with Toolbox A Higher Plane Designs £48.37 ARTFIRE

Flake the Snowman Lazy Daisy Marie £18.06

Dimensional Beaded Christmas Stocking, Santa with Canary and Kitten FairevergreensMom £48.37

Lampwork Christmas Earring Christmas Cheer Melting Tart Sampler Jeanniegalt CountryHomeScents £17.55 £3.60

Christmas Gingerbread House Soap Wax Resin Embellishment Dinkalulu £4.98

All prices are correct at the time of going to print

This Santa chart is great for beginners and children because you are only using whole Stitches, there are no backstitch or half stitches to be done. The chart uses blocks of colour so you don’t have to keep changing colour.

This is a great way to get children excited about cross stitch as they will be making something for Christmas.

‘Santa’ You will need: A piece of Aida fabric 8 inches wide x 10 inches tall.

The following DMC threads: 310 – Black 699 – Christmas Green 321 – Christmas Red 444 – Lemon Dark 353 – Peach Flesh 422 – Hazelnut Brown Blanc – White 151 Rose Pink A needle.

Scissors

Instructions It is a good idea to find the centre of your fabric and the chart so that the cross stitch is centred.

To do this fold each one in half and then half again. Where the folds meet will be the centre. This would be a good place to start.

The Santa chart requires a simple cross stitch. The following diagram shows how to complete it.

You simply bring the needle up at point 1 and go down at point 2, then up at point 3 and down at point 4, and so on for however many stitches you have of the current colour on that row.

You come back on the same row, so you bring the needle up at point 5 and down at point 6, then up at point 7 and so on until you get to the first stitch on that row, and that is one row done.

The chart is marked by darker lines around every ten stitches to make it easier to count how many stitches are on a row.

This article was written

by Angela from Angel Crafts. http://www.groovycart.co.uk/angelcrafts

Guide to starting knitting Part 8 Designers This issue I am going to focus on the fabulous designers that are out there for knitting.

A few of my favourites include Debbie Bliss and Ysolda Teague.

Debbie Bliss has been designing for many years and she has numerous books and even yarns for sale too.

Her designs are classic and suit so many people.

Ysolda Teague is a young designer who has released 2 books and many patterns, she has another book coming out soon, which I cannot wait for as it looks great!

She is very talented and she really inspires me to design myself.

She was also included in the Guardian newspaper which you can read here Self-taught Scot has designs on world domination as she knits her way to fame Ravelry is a free social networking web site. The site was launched in May 2007, by husband and wife Casey and Jessica Forbes, hosting a variety of fibre arts including knitting, crocheting, spinning, and weaving.

Ravelry is a place for knitters, crocheters, designers, spinners, and dyers to keep track of their yarn, tools and pattern information, and look for inspiration.

It is also a great place for designers and people selling yarn to use too. It contains forums and groups and is a network purely for knitters and all people that love crafting with yarn. This has to be the site that you join if you are interested in any of them.

Members share projects, ideas, and their collection of yarn, fibre. As of September 2010, Ravelry had over 850,000 members worldwide.

Visit Ravelry now at http://www.ravelry.com Written by Peggy’s Knits http://www.folksy.com/shops/crawlin

There are a lot of different crafts to choose from.

This series of articles will discover some of the more unusual and also some old world crafts that may have been almost forgotten.

Lace Making Lace is an openwork fabric, patterned with open holes in the work, made by machine or by hand.

The holes can be formed via removal of threads or cloth from a previously woven fabric, but more often open spaces are created as part of the lace fabric. Lace-making is an ancient craft.

True lace was not made until the late 15th and early 16th centuries. A true lace is created when a thread is looped, twisted or braided to other threads independently from a backing fabric.

Originally linen, silk, gold, or silver threads were used. Now lace is often made with cotton thread.

Manufactured lace may be made of synthetic fibre. A few modern artists make lace with a fine copper or silver wire instead of thread.

There are many types of lace, classified by how they are made. These include: Needle lace - such as Kenmare Lace are made using a needle and thread.

This is the most flexible of the lace-making arts. While some types can be made more quickly than the finest of bobbin laces, others are very time-consuming. Some purists regard needle lace as the height of lacemaking.The finest antique needle laces were made from a very fine thread that is not manufactured today.

Cutwork, or whitework - lace constructed by removing threads from a woven background, and the remaining threads wrapped or filled with embroidery.

Handmade Needle Lace Wall Tapestry KarArt2010 http://www.etsy.com/listing/43042458/ handmade-needle-lace-wall-tapestry-6

Bobbin Lace - as the name suggests, made with bobbins and a pillow. The bobbins, turned from wood, bone or plastic, hold threads which are woven together and held in place with pins stuck in the pattern on the pillow. The pillow contains straw, preferably oat straw or other materials such as sawdust, insulation Styrofoam or Ethafoam. Also known as Bone-lace. Chantilly lace is a type of bobbin lace.

Tape lace - makes the tape in the lace as it is worked, or uses a machine- or hand-made textile strip formed into a design, then joined and embellished with needle or bobbin lace.

Knotted lace - including macramĂŠ and tatting. Tatted lace is made with a shuttle or a tatting needle. Crocheted lace; including Irish crochet, pineapple crochet, and filet crochet.

Knitted lace - including Shetland lace, such as the "wedding ring shawl", a lace shawl so fine that it can be pulled through a wedding ring.

Machine-made - any style of lace created or replicated using mechanical means.

Jasmine - Delicate White Knitted Lace Scarf Miss Freckles

If you would be interested in taking up lace making, why not look out for clubs or classes nearby.

http://www.folksy.com/items/604337

Information in this article was supplied by Wikipedia.com

This article was created by

The Crystal Lady

http://www.mysticearth.co.uk

Handmade Sparkly Recycled Paper Now winter is here there are lots of cold, rainy days to fill for adults and children alike so why not become absorbed in paper making for a couple of hours? Paper making is a fantastically easy and very cheap craft to do at home and my children love doing it with me. This year we are making our own wrapping paper and envelopes from homemade paper and Amber (my eldest daughter) and I are going to show you how. We did this project entirely from things we had at home already, so it cost us no money BUT the trade off is it is a little messy, so wear an apron, cover the table (or do it outside if weather allows) and submit to the process!

You will need: Newspaper/tissue paper/other non glossy paper.

A big wad of newspaper.

Old towels.

Old materials cut into squares slightly bigger than the picture frame.

A picture frame.

Old pair of tights.

Sponge.

Poster paint.

Food processor/blender.

Glitter/other sprinkly bits (anything from leaves to sweet wrappers.

Bowl/container big enough to hold your paper mixture and submerge your picture frame.

Pegs and somewhere to hang your drying sheets of paper.

Stage 1 Rip your paper into small pieces and put into the blender. We used a mixture of old letters from the bank, tissue paper and old newspapers; but you can play with the textures of different papers, just don’t use glossy paper, it doesn’t break down as readily and has lots more chemicals in it.

Stage 2 Add 2 parts water to 1 part paper in the blender and blend for a couple of minutes till you get the texture you like, we have gone for a fine porridge, the finer the pulp the smoother the paper.

Stage 3 Pour your water mixture into a bowl (we started with a washing up bowl, but it wasn’t big enough for the picture frame so we had to move into an old roasting tin) and mix in a good dollop of poster paint and glitter. Amber is at the pink and sparkly stage, so that’s what we have gone for, but every piece of paper is a surprise and a slightly different colour, which is half the fun!

Stage 4

Stage 5

Stage 6

Cut a leg off the tights and stretch it over the old picture frame (having removed the glass and other fittings, you only want the wooden frame) and tie tightly at both ends of the frame.

Gently lower the frame into the pulpy, colourful water and bring it out of the water as flat as possible, hold it above the bowl until all the water has stopped dripping from the bottom of the screen.

Lay down your old towels or wad of old newspaper and place a square of old material slightly bigger than the picture frame, now flip the frame over quickly so that the paper pulp is face down on the material and towels.

Stage 7 Now take a sponge and gently press all over the back of the paper, through the tights mesh, you will need to squeeze it out and repeat around 3 times.

Stage 9

Stage 8

Hang your paper (still on the material backing) up to dry, they drip quite a lot, so if they hanging indoors then protect your floors with something.

Gently peel the frame away from the paper and material (if it sticks don’t try to pull it up, put the frame back down and squidge with the sponge a bit more).

Stage 10

Stage 11

Peel off the material once it is completely dry and if it curls up flatten it under a heavy book for a little

Spend a moment to be really pleasantly surprised with how good it looks and then turn it into gift boxes, envelops, tags, cards or just roll up a few sheets to give as a small gift.

Tips and hints If you use newspaper or other printed paper use a bit more paint to take some of the grey tint away Keep topping up the pulp in your tray, you will know when you need to top it up when you get bald or very thin patches on your paper.

This article was written by The texture of the material will imprint onto the paper, so use a course fabric for a rough grain.

from AmyOrangeJuice

http://www.amyorangejuice.co.uk

Heartmade Gifts Make your own Advent Calendars from Recycled Materials An advent calendar always increases the sense of expectation and excitement in the run up to Christmas. Originating in nineteenth century Germany, the simplest advent calendars were created by drawing a chalk line drawn on the door every day, or hanging a religious picture on the wall.

Advent calendars were first printed in the very early nineteenth century and these windowed advent calendars remain a popular Christmas tradition. Make your own this year, either a quick and simple variation or something special to become part of a family Christmas tradition.

You can make a simple window calendar by gluing an image onto a large sheet of card and cutting out various window or door shapes. (Remember to leave one side uncut.) Place this over another sheet of card and draw the shapes you have cut out. You can then add an image or words to these shapes on your second piece of card. Gently bend the cut out shapes through the card slightly before gluing both pieces of card together. This helps the windows stay closed. Add numbers to your windows and hang up with a ribbon threaded through a punched hole in the centre of the top side of your calendar.

Some ideas for the picture on the front of your advent calendar: • a large Christmas card • a collage of small Christmas cards • a panel from some Christmas wrapping paper • draw or paint a Christmas picture yourself • photocopy and use a Christmas picture made by a child • use a family photograph (perhaps from a previous Christmas) • try words instead, perhaps your favourite Christmas song • experiment with mixed media collage Christmas pictures are traditionally found inside the windows, but you could use photos instead or write messages, or quotations. Or you could choose single words on a Christmas theme to encourage a toddler to learn new words, perhaps.

For a slightly different version of the window calendar, mount front opening gift tags or small cards onto a base of strong cardboard. You can leave the board plain or decorate in Christmas colours and motifs (Christmas trees, holly, ivy, stars, angels, snowmen, snowflakes, etc.) You could also use matchboxes or small tins in place of windows.

You don't have to stick to a flat board for an advent calendar.

You could make a very simple garland advent calendar by hanging pretty handmade gift tags on a string, for example. (You can then recycle them again as tags for your Christmas presents on Christmas Eve.) There are lots of other things you can hang as a garland advent calendar, using thick thread, string, ribbon, wire or tinsel, depending on the effect you wish to create and the weight of the things you wish to hang:

Heartmade Gifts • • • • • •

try making some cute little envelopes from old wrapping paper or cards use tissue, crepe or greaseproof paper to make long, elegant envelopes sew some simple pockets from two pieces of fabric or make sacks, envelopes or stockings from fabric scraps use your collection of odd mittens or baby socks make some tiny crackers from Christmas paper

(Fill your hanging items with small chocolates or candy canes, little stocking fillers, poems, photographs or coins. Or hide treats around the house and leave clues in your advent calendar.)

Attach to the garland with pegs, safety pins, paper clips, hair clips, ribbon, or wire and beads.

And you don't have to hang them as a garland: • • • • •

pile them into a pretty bowl or vase hang them from coat pegs, or a mini Christmas tree tie them between fairy lights, or from an arrangement of dried twigs attach them to an evergreen wreath hang them from a wire hoop or coat hanger

Make small boxes or bags in various shapes and sizes, using Christmas paper or fabric. Fill them with tiny treats and pile them up under a small Christmas tree, or hang them in a net bag, or tie them onto a ribbon and wrap around your banister or hang from your mantelpiece.

A great way to display your collection of tiny gifts is in a house made from cardboard boxes and paper shopping bags: You could use ready made trinket shelves instead, or arrange the gifts in a doll's house.

Making your own advent calendar can be inexpensive and very quick and easy. The possibilities are endless … have fun!

And have a very Merry Christmas! x

This article was written by Dianne from Heartmade Gifts Join Heartmade Gifts on Facebook www.heartmadegifts.wordpress.com

Tell us about yourself.

Hi – we are Antonia and Karen. Antonia has two sons and Karen has four sons - the youngest was actually born the day after KiddieBase launched at the end of September!

We both live in Beaconsfield in Buckinghamshire although we are originally from Birmingham and Bolton respectively.

Our craft is finding great retailers of baby and children related products, many of whom are crafters. We bring together all of these great retailers on just one website, where they sell their products themselves, to provide a fabulous shopping site with an amazing choice of quality goods for maternity, baby and children.

When did your crafting begin, and why?

We started talking about our business in January when we both realised that we wanted to set something up ourselves in the kids’ related space. We had both taken breaks from our previous careers while our children were small but still wanted to do something that stretched us in a different way, and that hopefully would earn us a little money to sustain our career breaks!

Our working environment is very much a pair of laptops and the kitchen/dining table - it has to fit in around the family. We did recently exhibit at The Earls Court Baby Show that was a bit of change of environment for us.

What was the first item you made to sell online?

The first item we sold online was a Minnie Moo Toddler Cow Print Car Seat Liner – this was from The Minnie Moo Company who sell their fabulous car seat and buggy covers on KiddieBase. The funny thing about this sale was that it happened before KiddieBase was actually fully live – we hadn’t started promoting the site at all, and there were just a few of our first sellers on board uploading their items when it happened!

What is your biggest crafting achievement, and why?

Our biggest achievement has probably been sticking to our original go-live date of September and being able to do so with a great collection of stores! Given that Karen’s baby was due at the end of September and Antonia was having major renovation work done to her house, there were quite a few challenges along the Way! Other than crafting, what else do you like to do?

First and foremost for both of us is definitely family-time, spending time with our husbands and kids, and also our friends. We met through a post-natal group that we both attended with our now nearly 4 year olds and still get together with the same group most weeks to unwind and catch-up while all the children play.

Where would you like to be in 5 years?

We’d like to be one of the main web sites where people shop for their maternity, baby and children’s needs.

Where does your inspiration come from?

There are some fantastic businesses out there that sell wonderful products that so many people don’t even know about – many of them are run by mums like us. If we can give those businesses a greater platform to increase their sales, improve their product visibility and be found by shoppers then we will be very happy!

As shoppers, we have spent many an hour scouring the Internet looking for great products for our kids, visiting 20 web sites and still not knowing which to buy from! Therefore providing one site with a great range of products from quality retailers seemed like a good idea!

What is favourite shop online, that isn’t yours, and why?

This is such a hard one as there are so many that are contenders!

We like web sites that make life simpler in some way (like KiddieBase!) therefore it would probably have to be a tie between Sainsburys for eliminating the need for us to take lots of small children to the supermarket on a regular basis and Moonpig for being a generally cool idea and rescuing a few last minute forgotten birthday moments!

Has any person helped or supported you more than any other?

This definitely has to go to our husbands – for all the general support they’ve given us while we’ve been setting KiddieBase up – the endless looking after the kids, cooking the dinner etc! Karen’s husband even helped us at The Baby Show which was very useful and brave of him!

Tell us a random fact about yourself!

We agree on most things but Antonia hates the X Factor and refuses to watch it but Karen is the opposite and watches every show!

Visit KiddieBase - Baby and Children’s Online Shopping Experience at http://www.kiddiebase.co.uk

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Kerry. I am married with 4 children, aged 9, 3, 1 and 3 months. I live in Liverpool but am originally from London, although I have lived here now for 12 years. Crafting wise I knit, crochet, dye yarns and fibres and have just started designing my own patterns.

When did your crafting begin, and why?

I have been able to knit since a child but could only knit garter squares, I learnt to crochet while pregnant with my eldest, but again only squares - great for baby blankets but not much else! I re-learnt how to knit and crochet while pregnant with my daughter (Scarlett, 1 year old), and with the help of friends online, in person and all the friends I have made through Ravelry. I quickly learnt to knit more than squares! While pregnant with my last daughter (Ruby, 3 months) I started dyeing my own yarns, after being inspired by other indie dyers (Knitcave and Fluffosity on Folksy). After much prompting from my darling husband and my friends I have recently started selling my hand dyed yarns, and am currently in the testing phase of selling my hand dyed fibres.

What was the first item you made to sell online?

The first yarns that I dyed specifically to sell online ended up being called London Town - Camden and was dyed with kool-aid.

Where does your inspiration come from?

London Town

My inspiration comes from a variety of places, it can be nature, or something I have seen recently or just some colours that I like and would love to see together. Since having my daughters I have very much (for the first time in my life) had a pink phase and love mixing pinks in with other colours!

What is your biggest crafting achievement, and why?

I think my biggest crafting achievement so far is Gok Wan owning a scarf made out of yarn that I dyed! The scarf was knitted by the lovely Diane (Peggysknits). Also dyeing some fibre and not felting it! and only on my 3rd/4th attempt!

Gok Wan’s Scarf and the yarn that it was made from.

Other than crafting, what else do you like to do?

I love zombies, books, films, anything! I am a avid reader and love films but generally aim towards the horror section for both.

Where would you like to be in 5 years?

Ideally in 5 years time, I will have a successful online shop selling my hand dyed yarns, fibres and patterns all over the world. I would love to have my own bricks and mortar shop but only time will tell. I would also love to be a regular seller at all the UK crafting/fibre events.

Mini sock blanket skeins

What are your favourite materials, and why?

My favourite materials are procion dyes as they are so easy and can be used on plant and animal products, along with angora yarn and cheviot fibre!

Hand dyed Cheviot tops

What is favourite shop online, that isn’t yours, and why?

My favourite online shop has to be Knitcave (http://knit cave.folksy.com), Helen is the person that made me want to dye my own yarns after falling in love with most of hers! (and buying a fair few of them!)

Has any person helped or supported you more than any other?

I have to say that Helen from Knitcave and Sam from Fluffosity (both on folksy) helped me with learning all about the initial dyeing process and gave me the courage and support to start selling my own.

Tell us a random fact about yourself!

I lived in Germany as a toddler.

London Town - Portobello

Visit Kerry in her Folksy Store http://www.folksy.com/shops/dyeingforyarn

Seasons - Camden - Solids

Budget

Luxury

Click on the images to take you to their store!

14” Snowman Wreath Patchwork Cottage Crafts £20.00

Christmas Pudding Magnet The Mosaic Garden £1.50 each

Christmas Hats Diomo Glass £4.50 Xmas Buttonz and Beadz £20.00 Cinnamon Scented Stocking Holly Dish Dash Bags £7.50

Tibetan Silver Lilac Heart Cluster Bookmark The Black Cat Jewellery Store £8.00

Handpainted Gingerbread Men Canvas Painted with Love £20.00 'Pink Lady' Sleeping Area Troughs of Bowland £395.00

Custom 10 Piece Set Nativity Christmas Decoration PinkPupDesign £54.82

Human Christmas Tree Greeting Card omilife £2.19

Reindeer large bookmark clip for books bluemanatee £1.88

Holly Branch Necklace glowfly £47.02

By Sprinkles Sparkles http://www.sprinklessparkles.co.uk All prices are correct at the time of publication

Make A Pom-P m Snowman!

Written by Sprinkles Sparkles http://www.sprinklessparkles.co.uk

Why not make a pom- pom snowman this Christmas holiday.

A great project to entertain the kids.

What you will need: Card Something to circular to draw around A pen Yarn Craft knife of scissors Step 1 . Draw around yourcircular objects, and cut out two doughnut rings and two smaller doughnut rings, to your desired size.

Step 3. Take both of the larger same sized doughnut rings and start to wrap the yarn around them. Do the same for the smaller sized rings. You may need a couple of balls to cover the rings.

Step 2. Take your ball of yarn, and remake into smaller yarn balls, so that they fit through the two doughnut rings.

Step 4. Keep wrapping the yarn around both doughnut rings, until they are at least 1.5 inches thick.

Step 6. Once you have cut through the rings, take a length of the same yarn and tie around the middle and knit.

Step 7. Cut both cardboard doughnut rings and take off. Start to ‘fluff’ out the pom - pom until it is round. Repeat steps 4 - 7 for the second pom-pom.

Step 5. Take hold of the ring and cut through the yarn until you find card. Cut all around the edge of the doughnut ring.

Step 8. With the hanging ends, tie both poms -poms together, tightly, to make the snowman’s head and body.

Step 9. Cut off any excess yarn around the pom - poms. Puff up your snowman, and add your own body embellishments.

This Months

This month we chat to our winner, Shelly from Shellybobbins Hi, I’m Shelly. I am 39, a mum to two girls and I have a lovely husband called Rob & a dog. I’ve been made redundant now three times in three years!

I’m also disabled and have been for 37 years. Life hasn't been easy to say the least but always having a dream of owning my own business some day, well that some day came with a kick! Coming home wondering what I am going to do ? Go and sign on ? Very strange waking up the following morning and not getting ready for work, got busy as you do making beds, organising tea, cleaning up and this went on for a few days I was waiting for the job paper to come out on Friday and now doubt I would find a job, be working next week and not to worry about anything as it was in my mind all ok.

Friday came and went no suitable jobs at all but not to worry I don’t need to go and sign on well not yet anyway as there is always next weeks paper.

This went on for a few weeks I was sure, I would get a job this had never happened I had always got one, it did take a while to sink in as I really thought I would get a job!

The time came nearly two months down the line, I did go and I did sign on, I mentioned about starting my own business, but but nothing was said just more interested in getting my details, and getting a signing on date ? What ever that was ? He handed me a wallet and told me what time and when to come back, that was it ? I came home had a glass of wine and wondered what on earth am I going to do ? I’ll make something, do some sewing and start a business all in that order. I’m laughing at myself typing this I was daft, How wrong was I, I came up with the idea of making a rag doll and my nickname as a child was Shellybobs so why not Shellybobbins as she’s handmade ? saying to myself yes ok lets start to draw a doll cut the material out and then start to promote her – bingo sounds good !

This was the original Shellybobbins nearly ready for sale. This wasn’t hard at all, so I wonder why everyone doesn’t do this, well nearly 4 months down the line and a business course later I understand a lot more, my local trading standards office have been really good and send me a lot of information on what I need to do. It seemed a lot at once to be emailed, but broken down into bit size pieces seemed to work better for me as I am dyslexic too. I found out that you can’t just make and sell as I previously thought because I wanted to make a toy even a collectable toy. It would be aimed at children and with toys especially under the age of 14 years old would have to be tested to a British standard of what is called EN71, which there are 3 parts to this as well. It’s important to know I think as a parent that every ink/dye has toxic’s that you can breath in and which if not tested could be harmful ones, well I didn’t know that ? I’ve learned a lot in the few months I do know however that I want to be able to make a doll that I know I can make myself, that every thing has been tested, I will have my certificates for customers to see ( If they wish) and I can sell with confidence too.

I love crafting. Always have a go, as you really wont know what your capabilities are until you try.

Why not follow Shellybobbins on Facebook and Twitter to learn more about how her business is growing. http://www.shellybobbins.blogspot.com http://www.twitter.com/shellibobbins

CREATIVE CRAFTING

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Valentine & Mothers Day Projects

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Whatever your craft, join us and learn, create, discover.

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