The Crafty Alley Design Team

Good use for the Christmas kit!

2010-12-06T13:26:00.001Z

I decided last weekend to make an advent calendar. I was going through ideas for styles for what I wanted and decided on one. I got a frame, removed the glass, got out my mod podge and the Bo bunny papers from the Crafty Alley kit and got to work. I was using chipboard numbers for on the tags and realised I did not have enough, so I placed an order online for more. However, then it started snowing, and as a result I have not yet received my extra numbers! I am ok up to the 11th for the moment at least But hurry up mister postman!!

The photo isn’t the best (see my previous post today complaining about that!) so you cant see some of the details in it. Firstly the frame is a lovely cream colour, not white as it looks here. Secondly, the berries and ornaments have been treated with glossy accents so they have a raised, dimensional look.

All the tags hang on red and silver star shaped brads that I painstakingly hot glued on. The tags have been kept fairly simple, just the gold painted numbers on the front. When you turn the tag over there are snowflakes stamped on the back. It works great so far. Hopefully it is something that will last us for a while. Now in the mean time keep your fingers crossed my postman turns up so I can fully finish it!

Nicole

Round up your scraps!

2010-10-02T09:34:00.001+01:00

Below is a series of cards and gift card holders I have made with the scraps on my desk from the September Crafty Alley kit. I am determined to use the majority of my scraps before I start cutting into new papers! The only things that were not in the kit were the flowers. I hope you enjoy and thanks for stopping by!

Owl card. I love this cute stamp! I would tell you where its from but I lost the packaging and I cant remember!!

This could be a slightly smaller card or a slightly large gift card or money wallet.

This is the perfect size for a gift card!

I quite like this one. It would be perfect for a money wallet. I have it monogrammed & personalised for the recipient.

This one is small card sized but I have a little slot inside for a gift card also.

Altered Letter

2010-09-25T20:19:00.007+01:00

This is an altered wooden letter that I picked up in TK Max. It is about 4cm deep and about 20cm high. It was originally a shocking pink colour, hopefully it looks much better now! I used 7 gypsies paper that I got at the Crafty Alley Crop to cover part of it and crackle painted the rest of it. All of the elements used on this project are from The Crafty Alley, mostly from the Tim Holtz range. There was plenty of frayed burlap distress ink used on this project too, its one of my favourites! Thanks for stopping by and I hope you enjoy:)

2010-09-23T16:38:00.006+01:00

I created this sweet little gift box and the 3" x 3" note card using supplies from the September kit from the Crafty Alley. All supplies are from the kit with the exception of the fabric, flat-back pearls, rhinestone brad, tiny gems, and white envelope. I used Sizzix dies to cut out the leaves and butterflies, and the box trim was created using a MS punch that I cut in half lengthwise. The box was constructed using the green Bazzill cardstock and panels of the BG papers.

Crafty candle!

2010-09-20T22:31:00.004+01:00

This is just a quick 5 minute project I have to share with you. I used scraps from the beautiful papers from the SeptemberCrafty Alley Kit. I have attachment issues with scraps and am always looking for things to do with them!

This project was as simple as cutting a strip to hide the existing label on the candle and gluing it on, die cutting, stamping and glimmer misting the name plate and adding it on with some co-ordinating ribbon. I die cut a flower for the top of the candle lid and added a prima pebble as a centre. I love this as a way to use the pretty scraps! Oh and here is a picture of the top:

Thanks for looking, I hope you like it!

Time to celebrate card

2010-09-20T20:02:00.000+01:00

Hi everyone, Just a quick card to show you which I made using the Crafty Alley September Kit. Everything was in the Kit except the flowers and the sentiment stamp.

These Basic Grey papers are absolutely gorgeous, like the flowery pattern on them. I think my favourites in the Kit were the stiched brads, just love them, they give texture to my card.

Hope you liked it, have a lovely week,

Timi xx

A Couple of Cards

2010-09-18T09:17:00.001+01:00

Hi there everyone and thanks for stopping by. Today I'd like to show you a couple of cards that I’ve made using the gorgeous items from the September Kit from Crafty Alley.

The DP that I’ve used are Basic Grey and this is included in the September Kit from Crafty Alley and I’ve distressed the edges using my scissors.

The pink ribbon that I’ve used on the bottom card is also in the September Kit.

Ok that’s it from me today and hope you enjoy the rest of the weekend.

Hugs Michele x

2010-09-16T20:45:00.004+01:00

I'm a bit early posting my Friday DT share as we have a busy school day tomorrow. I created this card using supplies from the September Crafty Alley kit. The flower was created with the purple Bazzill cardstock by layering loads of die cut flowers.

Now to get it in the envelope for posting...

Hope you have a great weekend.

-Robyn

Floral fantasy

2010-09-13T20:31:00.007+01:00

I love the papers in the September Crafty Alley kit, they are so bright and vibrant. I decided to alter a photo frame using the kit papers and the chip board butterfly from the kit mini album. I wanted something bright and summery for my craft room wall - I want to pretend the weather is still sunny and bright! I had some flowers left over from previous kits, the trim on the top left is remaining from the Dublin Crop kit and the little flowers were from my stash. I painted the frame turquoise and when dry went over it with brown crackle paint (also from a previous crafty alley kit!). I painted the butterfly turquoise also and then stamped it in wild honey distress ink. When dry I painted over it in clear distress crackle paint.

The colours are not showing up great in the photo, the light has gone really bad here and because of the glass in the frame it was hard to get a good angle for a picture. It is lovely and vibrant in real life though! Here is a close up taken straight on....

Putting the Pieces Together...

2010-09-09T23:08:00.004+01:00

Hello Ladies,
Last Friday, you may recall that I mentioned that I had a project to share using the chipboard pieces that originally came with the "School Daze" album that I made from the K&Co. album. The chipboard album came in the September kit from the Crafty Alley that I created for my youngest daughter. I didn't want to use the chipboard pieces that came with it in her album, so I made a little wall hanging for my eldest daughter. It was kind of awkward to photograph because of the length of it, so I also did some close up photos for you to have a better idea of what I did with them.

I covered each of the pieces with the patterned paper from the kit, added eyelets and jump rings, and these lovely connectors that I picked up while we were in the States this past summer. The little gold confetti stars came in the kit as well. I added some of them behind the large "dew drop" and also added some to the "K" after I melted UTEE onto it.

The scalloped frame above that I painted and crackled did not come in the kit, it came from my stash. This was a fun project to work on. You can contact Cathy@craftyalley.com if you'd like to inquire into purchasing this kit.

-Robyn

Scrappy card

2010-09-09T21:46:00.006+01:00

Im currently working on a project with the super Crafty Alley September kit. It was leaving me with a lot of scraps of paper though. I hate wasting scraps, especially of such amazing papers, so I decided to use up some of them and make a card. All the elements on this card are from the kit, with the exception of the green swirl die cut and the green bow - both stash items.

I am having so much fun with this kit, the colours are so bright, vibrant and cheery - its like a little piece of summer on my craft desk!!

Quick tag

2010-09-05T11:39:00.003+01:00

Hi everyone. I just wanted to share this quick little tag I made using scraps from past Crafty Alley kits. I wanted to use up some scraps so I would not feel so guilty about moving on to the super September kit!!

I used papers from the August kit and from the July kit also I think. I inked up some card cut into a tag shape and popped a die cut tag on the top. The flowers were made layering paper and velum scraps I had. I stamped the butterfly background to give a bit more interest. A bit of frayed burlap distress ink around the edges and it was done. Thanks for stopping by, enjoy the rest of your weekends!

Fairy Card

2010-09-04T08:43:00.001+01:00

Hi there everyone and thanks for stopping by. Today I'd like to show you a card that I’ve made using the gorgeous items from the September Kit from Crafty Alley.

The DP that I’ve used are Basic Grey and this is included in the September Kit from Crafty Alley and I’ve distressed the edges using my scissors.

The braided ribbon I’ve used is also in the September Kit along with the tiny holographic heart sequins.

Ok that’s it from me today and hope you enjoy the rest of the weekend.

Hugs Michele x

School Daze...

2010-09-03T00:01:00.000+01:00

This was created using the K&Co. Raw Chipboard book that was included in the September kit from the Crafty Alley shop. All papers and Basic Grey die cuts are from the kit. I made this for my 11 year old daughter as a back-to-school gift. Be sure and stop back by next Friday as I have another project to share from this K&Co. set using the chipboard pieces.

-Robyn

Still the bumper August Kit

2010-09-02T21:31:00.000+01:00

I know, I know it is already September and we all look forward to start to create with the fab September Kit, but for the meantime I show you something I made with the August Kit.

By the way I'm not sure if there's any left from the September Kit, but you could call the shop and ask Felicia.

So here is my little altered box:

I used:
Paper: August Kit
Paints: Claudine Hellmuth, I got them from Crafty Alley
Metal pieces: from earlier Crafty Alley Kits.

The flower on the top is made from Sticky back Canvas and you can watch the technique on Crafty Alley Shop Blog.
That was me for today,
Timixx

Wedding Anniversary

2010-09-01T22:01:00.003+01:00

Hi there! I just want to share this card I made using the Crafty Alley August Kit. It is a card for my hubby's parents. Its their 35th wedding anniversary today. Of course the hubby only told me this today! I kept the card quite simple to get it done in time. I distressed the paper up a bit using Frayed Burlap distress ink. The papers lent themselves quite nicely to the vintage look of the digi image. I love the papers from the August kit. I cant wait to get working on the September kit. Im not sure if there are any left but you could give Crafty Alley a call to find out!

Vintage Card using August kit from the Crafty Alley

2010-08-31T13:29:00.002+01:00

Hi All,

This is a vintage style birthday card I have created using elements from The August kit at the Crafty Alley Shop. This kit came with 50 12x12 K & Co pages, loads of embelishments and goodies.

Firstly I distessed the papers with Vintage photo.
I stamped the image and embossed it using copper embossing powder, as I don't have any copic markers or promarkers, I coloured the image using distress ink!

I added the lace trim around the bottom edge and added two gold brads to support the card once standing.

I then die cut the heart and key with chipboard and embossed them using the copper again. I added the flower and the tag (its a 90th birthday card!)

This was also my first attempt at an easel card, which I really enjoyed doing

There is a tutorial on how to make an easel card by Katie on the Crafty Alley ning network, visit www.craftyalley.ning.com

If you are interested in purchasing the new (fab) September kit, pop over to www.craftyalley.com
These kits are fantastic, there are loads in it to keep you crafting your days aways!

Thanks for stopping by

Lou x

Vintage layout (August Kit)

2010-08-31T10:58:00.001+01:00

Hi All,

I just wanna show you a quick project I created using the August kit. This was also an entry for the Sketch Challenge that Michele on the DT set.

All materials used are from the August kit, except the flower which was from the July kit (another fab kit)
I distressed the edges of the papers using my scissors and them used vintage photo distress ink around the edges.

I hope you like it, keep an eye out for the September kit, its fab!

Thanks for stopping by

Lou x

Thank you Cards

2010-08-27T00:01:00.001+01:00

Patterned papers are all from the Crafty Alley August Kit. What a fabulous selection of papers in this kit, it's been a lot of fun creating with them this month. It's hard to tell in the photo, as my lighting was rather poor, but the colours in the patterned paper match the inks almost as if they were made to do so. I used lots of yummy satin ribbon and some Dew Drops.

Thanks so much for stopping by today, I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

-Robyn

Some Cards From Me

2010-08-23T20:26:00.001+01:00

Hi there everyone just a quickie from me tonight as I completely forgot to do my posting for today. I just want to show you a couple of cards that I’ve made using the gorgeous papers from the August Kit from the Crafty Alley.

For this card I’ve used the large green flower, button and papers from the August Kit.

On this card I’ve used the very yummy papers that is in the August Kit.

And here is the last card that I want to show you using the papers from the August Kit. For the edges I’ve inked them up using clear embossing powder and then sprinkled Gold Glitter Embossing powder over it and then used my heat gun to melt it.

Hope that this has given you some ideas.

Hugs Michele x

Wedding Layout

2010-08-21T09:14:00.001+01:00

Hi there everyone and thanks for stopping by. Today I’d like to show you a layout that I’ve done. I was meant to show you this last Monday but wanted to keep it until today as today is a very special day for me as it would have been my lovely Mum’s 66th Birthday but very sadly she was taken from us December 2007. Today is also my 11th Wedding Anniversary so I thought what better way to celebrate the two occasions in creating a Wedding layout using a photo of my Mum & Dad’s Wedding Day (it’s kind of a little gift to my Mum)

The DP are from the August Kit from the Crafty Alley and for the green papers I’ve just ripped the edges exposing the white underneath and then inked it up using Frayed Burlap.

The journaling tag is also in the August Kit from Crafty Alley.

I made the yellow roses myself as these was my Mum’s favourite flowers and I created these using my slice machine.

I didn’t have any of the swirl adhesive gems so I created my own using silver beads, glue and a lot of patience, LOL – But I think it turned out ok.

The butterfly I’ve used is also in the August Kit from the Crafty Alley and I’ve glued some of the silver beads to the body.

As I want to be able to see this all the time, I’ve put it in a picture frame and will hang it in the hallway. I’ve still got to stain the frame itself but just wanted to show you the finished look.

I hope that this has given some ideas on how to use the elements from the August Kit.

Hugs Michele x

Blessings On A Warm Summer Day...

2010-08-20T00:01:00.002+01:00

Happy Friday Gals,

I have a 12x12 layout that I created of my 3 children using supplies from the August Crafty Alley kit.

It is a really simple layout as I'm trying to fill an album that I started several years ago. I'm trying to keep the dimensional layouts to a minimum so they will fit in the page protectors. :c) Do you ever have that problem?

Thanks for stopping by. Be sure and check out the Crafty Alley shop for all of the latest products.

Guest Designer Nicole

2010-08-18T08:00:00.000+01:00

Hi all,

Our fab guest designer Nicole is back this week with not one but two amazing August Kit projects.

Nicole said "Here are two things I have made with [The August Kit] so far. The first is a cheap unpainted ikea mirror. I covered it in paper from the kit and added lots of the embellies from the kit also. The bird and the key have been painted with the distress crackle paint from the kit, im really loving that stuff!!

The 2nd image is a small square frame again from ikea. The inside edges and back are again lined with the kit paper. The heart die has been painted with the crackle paint :) The letters were gotten from a die swap - the Tim Holtz vintage market letters. I painstakingly covered them with paper from the kit and cut them back out. Need to get this die! Apart from how long it took to cut the letters out and letting paint dry this one was a super quick project with a E4.99 picture frame!

I think you will all agree that these are two amazing and original projects. To see more of Nicole's work visit her blog!

Remember you too can be a guest designer by emailing a couple of pics and short description of the projects you have made with the relevant months kit!

We look forward to seeing more amazing projects from our guest designers.

Stationary Box

2010-08-17T08:00:00.002+01:00

Hello!!

Yes.. I'm still away sunning myself :)

Here is a stationary box I made following a tutorial online at SplitCoastStampers, tweaked a bit to suit myself, of course. It took AGES but was so fun to make!

The lid comes off to reveal two sizes of notelets, tags, an address book, pen holder, and stamp holder...

I hope you like it.. aren't the papers in the kit just fabulous?!!?!

Hugs

Katie xoxo

A Sketch Challenge For You To Try

2010-08-14T09:10:00.001+01:00

Hi there everyone and hope you're all keeping well. For this week I've decided to run a little challenge for you all based on the sketch below.
This will run until 19th August and then I will chose a winner using random integer and they will receive the adorable Lottie rubber stamp from The Greeting Farm. Also Cathy from the Crafty Alley will be also throwing in a couple of surprise goodies also.

Ok so here's the sketch for you to try - You can create whatever project you like a card, scrapbook, mini-album etc.... as long as the sketch can be seen.

To enter the challenge, please click on the frog below.

"Family" Word Album

2010-08-13T00:01:00.003+01:00

Hi Ladies,

I've been having fun creating a "Family" mini album from the BoBunny Word Book that was in the August Crafty Alley kit. It's not all decorated just yet, but I wanted to share a little sneak peak with you. I really love all of the papers and the embellishments in this amazing kit. The gorgeous lace came from the Crafty Alley Shop as well.

I hope you're enjoying the August kit as much as I am. Perhaps I'll share the completed pages of my mini with you later this month when I have it finished.

- Robyn

Guest designer Sandie is Back

2010-08-11T10:43:00.001+01:00

Hi all,

We are delighted to share this super August Kit project from Sandie. Sandie is a regular guest designer here on the blog and we know her projects are very inspiring to you all so thanks Sandie for another cute one!

Sandie made this tag using the August kit. A few kits are still available for sale but when they are gone they are gone so please contact us if you would like us to reserve one for you.

Don't forget you too can be a guest designer too - just email a picture or two of the project you have made using the kit and write a short description.

Congratulations...

2010-08-10T08:00:00.000+01:00

Hello everyone

While I'm away sunning myself, I really hope that Mr Blogger will behave himself and post up this post for me.
I have a sweet card to share with you today. I loved the colour of this particular sheet of paper, it matched the fibres and Prima flower from the kit so well, so I decided they just had to be made into a card. I chose this Magnolia image because I think she kind of matched too - flowery and vintage looking. I distressed the edges and image background with Dusty Concord Distress Ink and added some Stickles for some vintage sparkle.

I hope you are all getting some sunshine in Ireland (heehee)

Be back soon!

Katie xxx

Nursery Door Hanger

2010-08-09T18:33:00.001+01:00

Hi there and thanks for stopping by. Today it’s my turn to show you my project that I’ve made using materials from the August Kit from the Crafty Alley.

I’ve made this hanger completely from scratch using just cereal boxes as a base, I’ve taken photos along the way of creating this project so I shall do a tutorial for you another day.

Materials used from the kit :- DP, brass button, key embellishment, butterfly and Dried Marigold Distress Crackle Paint.

Hope you like this little project and that it gives you some ideas for creations with your August kit.

Hugs Michele x

Forever Joyful

2010-08-06T00:01:00.002+01:00

Hi Ladies,

I used the yummy papers and embellishments from the August Crafty Alley kit to create this meandering mini. It measures 3"x3" and the base was created using 1 sheet of 12x12 paper. The covers are coasters/beverage mats. This was a really fun, quick project to create (only took about 2 hours) and it's all ready for me to add photos. Hope you like it and that it inspires you to create some really fun projects with your August kit.

- Robyn

Flutterby Paintbrush Holder

2010-08-03T08:05:00.002+01:00

Well, I don't know about you guys, but my desk is always a mess at the moment, so I decided to make a cute little desk tidy using the August kit!! I used a hot glue gun to attach everything so it is VERY STURDY and my cute little butterflies shall never take flight!

Here it is all filled up....

SO easy to make! Have a lovely day

xoxo Katie

Another Couple of Cards From Me

2010-08-02T10:36:00.001+01:00

Hi there everyone and hope you’re enjoying the long weekend. Today I’d like to show you a couple of cards that I’ve made using the gorgeous items from the August kit from the Crafty Alley.

First off I’d like to show you this card that I've made using the DP from the August Kit and I’ve gone round the edges using gold stickles.

The image is from Pollycraft and I’ve coloured her using my new AquaMarker pens from Letraset.

The metal embellishment and butterfly is also from the August Kit.

The flowers I made myself using various punches.

This is another card that I’ve made using the gorgeous papers from the August Kit.

The image that I’ve used is from Whiff of Joy and I’ve coloured Willow using my new AquaMarkers from Letraset. I’ve gone round the edges of the image using Victorian Velvet Distress inks that was in a previous kit.

The strands that I’ve used on my card is also from the August kit.

The large pink flower is from a previous kit and the roses I made myself using various dies.

I hope that these cards have given you an idea of the gorgeous papers and items that are in this August Kit.

Thanks for stopping by today.

Hugs Michele x

Design Team soon entering Phase 2.....

2010-07-30T17:55:00.000+01:00

Hi all,

Can you believe that the phase 1 of our design team is nearly over with just one more kit left to reveal before phase 2 and the new kits start.

I am so delighted with the success of the first phase and that is down mainly to our amazing design team (who ooooozzzzzzeeee talent I think you will agree) and of course our Kit members who purchase the kits every month and share their amazing projects either here or over on our Ning network or through their own personal web pages, blogs and Facebook pages. Thank you all.

I get so excited each time I see a project made with the kit I put together and I love wacthing new crafters confidence grow month by month and experienced crafters skills flourish and perfect. Most of all I love the communtiy and the sharing between you all. I know I might not always be the most vocal but I can assure you I read every single blog post and comment and view and admire each and every one of your projects.

So this week I have been asking my design team for their feedback on how they think the first phase has gone so far and now I am going to ask our loyal and valued kit club members to let me know too. What have we done right? What can we do better? What do you enjoy the most from the kits? Do you find the tutorials useful? Could we do more of them? Would you like to see and particpate in more regular and more professional challenges? Do you think the kits represent could value for your crafty budgets? What would you like to see more or less of in the kits?

Please email me at cathy(at)craftyalley.com with any comments. These will be essential as I plan phase 2.

Once again.....thank you so much.....you have made the Design Team / Kits a huge success.

Cathy :o)

Prima Paper Shoe

2010-07-30T00:01:00.004+01:00

Hello Ladies,

I created this shoe using the lovely Prima papers from the July Crafty Alley kit available HERE. The only supplies not in the kit are the pearl trim and the aqua lace.

If you'd like to have a go at creating one for yourself, you can download the pattern HERE in pdf form. (download may begin automatically) The creator of the template is HERE. However, I followed the video tutorial of my YouTube friend Tracy HERE. It was easier than I expected, and only took about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Lots of fun! What do you do with it? I suppose there are many uses that an imaginative person can come up with, but the opening is wide enough to add a little gift such as a bag of ribbon, trims or charms, a small box, or some yummy candy inside and give it as a gift. Hope you have fun with it.

Hugs,

Robyn xx

August BUMPER STASH kit!

2010-07-29T12:19:00.001+01:00

Guest Designer: Sandie

2010-07-28T11:30:00.000+01:00

Our very popular guest designer Sandie is back this week with a stunning project using the July kit.

I think you will all agree that this is gorgeous.

Thanks Sandie!

It's a gift!!

2010-07-27T08:00:00.000+01:00

If.. like me.. you never seem to have the right gift box for that special present.. then this project might be right up your (crafty) alley.. (excuse the pun!)..

It's actually a very simple technique but I think it looks so cute! I made it using supplies entirely from the July kit and it is for a friend who has been very good to me recently...

I hope you guys like it! These kits are so versatile don't you think?

Katie xoxo

A Couple of Cards And a Sneaky Peak

2010-07-26T11:17:00.001+01:00

Hi there everyone and hope you had a lovely weekend. Today I’d like to show you a couple of cards that I’ve made using the gorgeous DP from the July kit and also a sneak peak into the August kit.

For this card I’ve used the adorable ‘Fairy Tallulah’ from Digi Stamp Boutique and I’ve coloured her using my ProMarker pens.

The DP is from the July kit along with the self-adhesive yellow gems.

The flowers I made myself using various dies.

For this card I’ve used one of the gorgeous Crystal Fairy images from Pollycraft and again I’ve coloured her using my ProMarker pens. I’ve inked the edges up using Frayed Burlap Distress Inks from the Crafty Alley.

The DP is from the new August Kit which will be available very soon.

The flowers I made myself using various dies.

I also just want to show the gorgeous embellishments that is included in the August kit

Along with 9 Maya Road Kraft Journaling Tags and then there is also 50 12x12 K&Company Classic Paper Collection (which everyone I love)

Because there’s so much in the August kit, there’s a limited amount, so once they’re gone you won’t be able to get your hands on it. So you’d better be quick to avoid a disappointment.

Ok well that’s it from me today and I hope that you’ve enjoyed a sneak peak into the August kit.

Hugs Michele x

An Easel With A Twist

2010-07-23T15:13:00.002+01:00

Hi everyone!
A quick easel card to share with you today - it's very frilly that's for sure!

Everything used to make this card is in the July Kit, I have simply added Distress Inks but that's it! How are you all getting on with the kit?

Katie xoxo

Introducing Guest designer Sinéad Kirby

2010-07-21T09:34:00.000+01:00

Sinéad is our guest designer this week and she made this stunning layout using the July Kit.

Sinéad said "I absolutely loved this July kit with all the beautiful Prima papers and embellishments! This layout is about me turning eighteen earlier this month, and the things that I love at the moment. I got the idea from Shimelle Laine's blog, as she creates a page like this every year for her birthday. All the papers I used are from the kit, I tore them to give a roughed up look, and also dry brushed my cardstock and one of the labels from the kit with pink paint mixed with glimmer mist to outline and highlight the papers. I used the flowers and leaves from the kit and decorated them with the glimmer mist, and also embellished with lots of the buttons and rhinestones from the kit, along with the lacy ribbon trim which I stitched along the bottom of the paper".

We look forward to seeing plenty more from Sinéad in the future.

This is a one off kit and we have two left - for more details click here....

Altered Pegs

2010-07-20T01:01:00.000+01:00

Hello Ladies,

The lovely summer colours from the July Crafty Alley kit are appearing all over my house. I have been altering things left and right! I have one such project to share with you today; a couple of altered jumbo pegs.

They can be used for displaying photos, reminder notes, or cards to name a few. I used the Prima papers, Baubles, and chipboard stickers from the kit.

I think there are only 1 or 2 kits left, and I don't think they'll be around long!

Hope you have a great week. Thanks for stopping by.

- Robyn xx

A Couple of Cards

2010-07-19T20:33:00.001+01:00

Hi there everyone and hope you’re enjoying the gorgeous July kit. Today I’d like to show you a couple of cards that I’ve made using the very yummy DP and embellies from the July kit

The image I’ve used is one of the Crystal Fairy digital images from Pollycraft and I’ve used my ProMarkers to colour her in.

The sketch I’ve followed from Friday Sketchers.

The lace ribbon is from the July kit

The flowers I made myself using my slice machine and the raffia and feather are from my stash.

And here’s another card that I’ve made using the gorgeous DP from the July kit.

The image that I’ve used is the adorable Willow from Whiff of Joy and I’ve coloured her using my ProMarker pens. I’ve inked up the edges using Blue Faded Jeans distress inks from Crafty Alley and also used a swirl stamp.

The flowers I made myself using various dies.

Ok that’s it from me for now and don’t forget to pop back again tomorrow to see what gorgeous creations the other DT has for you.

Hugs Michele x

Altered Children's Book

2010-07-17T08:17:00.003+01:00

Hi there everyone and thanks for stopping by. Today I’d like to show you a little project that I’ve made using a hard-backed children’s book. I’ve got so many of these books that my children don’t look at anymore, so I thought that I’d put them to good use. So I decided to make a mini-album for the very first time. A friend of mine is getting married in a few weeks time so I thought that I would make a wedding mini-album for her as a little gift.

I’ve really enjoyed putting this mini-album together and this will definitely won’t be the last

Almost all the materials I’ve used are from the July kit from Crafty Alley and also previous kits, except for the flowers which I made myself.

Hope you all like this mini-album.

Hugs Michele x

Vintage Butterfly...or is it?

2010-07-16T08:25:00.011+01:00

Happy Friday Ladies! I can't believe how fast this week has flown by! I have a card to share with you today that is using DP from the lovely July kit from the Crafty Alley shop. I've really grunged it up and distressed it quite a lot.

I've created the butterfly using the Cracked Glass technique.

First I stamped the flower onto watercolour paper using StazOn ink. I then colored it in using my AquaPainter and Stampin' Up! ink pads. I spritzed it with a brown marker and then die cut the butterfly shape with my Big Shot. After inking up the edges of the butterfly, I added VersaMark ink to the entire surface. I heat embossed it a total of 3 times using UTEE (Ultra Thick Embossing Enamel by Ranger). Then all you do is pop it into the freezer for about 15 minutes to harden it up further, and when you take it out you simply bend and snap the UTEE. Voilà! You've done the Cracked Glass technique. To further emphasize the cracks, I like to rub ink over the surface so it gets down into the cracks.

I hope you give it a go, it is a lot of fun. Thanks for stopping by today, I hope you all have a lovely weekend.

Robyn xx

Online Crop Shenanigans!!

2010-07-15T11:31:00.003+01:00

Hi Everyone!

I thought I would share with everyone the amazing creations from our July Crafty Alley Online Crop.

We had a choice of two projects, an easel card or a criss cross card, and this is what our crazy group came up with!

First up.. Sandie.. who managed to get both projects done using the papers from the July Crafty Alley kit...

Next up we have our very talented DT member Robyn, who went very quiet for a little while and then came back with this masterpiece!! :)

Next up we have Nicole who made these two cute minature cards with lots of sparkle...

Our friend Maria in the UK made this gorgeaus girlie criss cross card....

Jo was working on her anniversary card for her hubby.. and very cleverly combined the two projects in one... between Pina Coladas...

Next up we have Cathy.. who shock horror made a card! You would never know it was her first ever card.. gorgeous!

Last up we have the lovely Ann who made this beautiful feminine criss cross card using the July kit!

We also played some little forum games.. and wrote this little story between us.. it needs an ending though if anyone fancies giving it a shot in the comments....

One day, Cathy ordered some Websters Pages for her girls, to write their 'Storybook' tale, but by the time I had placed my order online, to my horror, guess what?! They had all but gone. So I had to then consult my under-sized pet giraffe, and I got advised to stick with fluffy pink marshmallows. Now, knowing that giraffes are known for their tall stories, and love of sweet treats, we decided on another plan, to climb a tall tree. But then, Felicia and Ebony, with their fear of heights, got called in for tea, and saw a mountain and decided, with the lovely Irish weather, it was time for a ................................

Good luck making an ending to make that all make sense! Looking forward to seeing your endings!

Katie xoxo

Guest Designer Day: Charmaine

2010-07-14T00:01:00.001+01:00

We have a brand new guest designer this week: Charmaine!

She has made an absolutely beautiful layout using one of the fabulous Prima 12x12's in this month's kit. Such a lovely layout, I particularly like how she has used the gems from the kit in the centres of the flowers on the design paper.

You can see more of Char's lovely work on her blog, by clicking HERE.

Katie xoxo

The Criss Cross Crazy Crop!

2010-07-13T11:43:00.004+01:00

Hello all!

My project this week is from our July Crafty Alley Online Crop - we had an amazing time last night! We had a choice of two projects, and inbetween all the natter and craziness, this is what my hot glue gun and I came up with:

Tomorrow is Guest Designer day, and on Thursday I will be posting up more from the crop, including everyone's beautiful projects that took part.

Thanks for peeking

Katie xxx

Criss Cross Card Tutorial - ONLINE CROP

2010-07-12T14:05:00.002+01:00

Here is the second tutorial for tonight!

Hope to see you all there!

Katie xoxo

ONLINE CROP - Easel Card Tutorial

2010-07-12T13:01:00.002+01:00

A very quick video for tonight's online crop where we will be working on a choice of two projects: either a criss cross card or an easel card. Here is the tutorial for the easel card for anyone that fancies giving it a go!

Katie xoxo

Online Crop Tonight!

2010-07-12T10:46:00.002+01:00

Hello All,

Don't forget that we are having an online crop over on the Crafty Alley Ning Network, tonight at 8 PM Dublin Time (GMT+1) !!!

We will have a choice of two projects (both if you're feeling ambitious), a 15 minute challenge, and lots of games and nattering! Also, attend the crop and upload your project pic to be in with the chance of winning a cool prize sponsored by the Crafty Alley, more to be revealed tonight!

Don't forget to stop by later too as Michele will have a cool project with the July Kit to share with you.

Katie xoxo

Prima 3-D Cone

2010-07-09T07:27:00.005+01:00

Hello Everyone and happy Friday! I have a fun home decor project to share with you today that would make a lovely gift or even as a party favor for a birthday or bridal event. I've created my samples to be 9" long, but you could adjust it to any size, even 6x6 so you could get 2 out of 1 piece of 12x12 paper. Just customize it to whatever suits you. I'm using supplies from the July Crafty Alley kit to create this lovely Prima paper cone. Would it be considered a Tussie Mussie? Not sure, but I'm pleased to share it with you today along with a tutorial. I hope you enjoy it.

And here is the one I created in the tutorial all decorated. On this one, I wanted to keep the trim simple to give another option. So, I've just added a line of scor-tape (or red tacky tape) along the bottom point and added some Martha Stewart glitter.

I hope you give it a try. If so, I'd ❤ to see yours.

Thank you so much for stopping by today. Have a blessed weekend!

Robyn xx

PS - There are only 3 July kits left, if you are holding off getting yours, you may want to order it today.

It's Guest Designer Day!

2010-07-07T00:22:00.002+01:00

Hi guys,

We have yet another fabulous project from our kit member Nicole Mullen this week! She has made great use of the yummy July kit with a very original and pretty design!

You can get more details on Nicole's project by visiting her blog HERE .

For all of you that haven't gotten around to ordering your kit yet, I have good news! There are three left. Order yours HERE.

Katie xoxo

Summer Art Journal

2010-07-06T11:16:00.002+01:00

Morning everyone!

I have a mini art/photo journal to share with you today. I loved the papers so much that I wanted to make something I could keep forever!

I have a very different concept in plan for this art journal. Because the papers are SOOO pretty, I am planning on photocopying any drawings, memoirs, or photos onto acetate, and then overlaying them onto the patterned paper, so that the paper still shows through. Hopefully that will look cool!

Here's some more close up detail: it's hard to see but I have coated everything in lots of glitter! :-)

That's it from me! Tomorrow is Guest Designer day so please continue to email Cathy your creations at cathy@craftyalley.com.

Hugs

Katie xoxo

Magnolia Easel Card

2010-07-05T15:21:00.001+01:00

Hi there and thanks for stopping by. Today I'd like to show you a card that I've made using the gorgeous papers and embellishments from the July kit from Crafty Alley.

This is one of the cards that I made for the card making class which I held at the Crafty Alley shop last Saturday.

All of the items that I've used on this card is from the July kit.

Here's another close-up of the image that I've used along with some of the embellishments that is in the July kit.

I hope that this has given you a little inspiration.

Hugs Michele x

So good to be back home...

2010-07-02T00:01:00.002+01:00

Hi Ladies,

I'm so happy to be back with you after my long but fabulous holiday. I've really enjoyed what Katie, Michele, and all of you wonderful Guest Designers have been creating! You ladies inspire me!

Wow! Isn't this month's kit yummy!?! I don't think it gets any better than this - Prima AND Tattered Angels? It's like a little piece of crafting heaven to me! Since I'm just getting back, I decided to make a tag using the Bird Cage die by Tim Holtz. It's a large #8 sized shipping tag. The little bird is so snug and cozy in his house! (Sorry Cathy, I know you don't like to see caged birds). This little guy is very happy to be in his home: he's surrounded by gorgeous Prima Papers, and lots of Glimmer Mist. I made the cage 3-D using Grunge Board, but have also used regular chipboard. By spritzing the back with water it will become pliable to where you can slowly form it the way you want.

Hope you like it.

Here's a list what I used from the kit:

Prima Paper: Watercolor Rainbow Collection ("Whimsy" and "Tropical Lagoon")

Prima leaves

lovely lace trim

blue Me & My Big Ideas Rhinestones

Not in the kit but available from the Crafty Alley Shop

Chipboard and Grungeboard

Tim Holtz Alterations die

Distress Crackle Paint in Broken China

Various colours of Glimmer Mist (the kit comes with 1 full-sized bottle of GM!)

Gold Embossing powder

I'm not sure if there are any July kits left as they were flying out the door. So exciting isn't it!?!

Hope you have a great weekend!

Crafty Hugs,

Robyn xx

Challenge 3

2010-06-30T15:00:00.000+01:00

Welcome along to another Crafty Alley challenge and for this month it's my turn (Michele Roos) to set the challenge. We loved looking at your gorgeous creations and thanks to everyone to who joined in.

Onto our next challenge and this time we have a sketch designed by myself.

And here is my card that I've made to give you a little inspiration

All the items that I've used on my card is from the June Kit from Crafty Alley, apart from the image and the flowers.

This challenge will run for the month of June and then we will the pick a winner using Random.Org and that lucky someone will win a fab prize sponsored by The Crafty Alley! If we get more than 100 followers before the challenge ends, I will throw in some extra candy myself. So help spread the word about the Crafty Alley Challenge.

Now it's your turn!! We can't wait to see your cards/projects based on the above sketch
Link your card below for your chance to win. If you don't have a blog, you can upload your card to the Crafty Alley Ning group.

Happy Crafting!!

Please note that this post is a sticky and will stay at the top for the month of June. More recent posts will be below this one.

Sandie's Prima 12x12 (Guest Designer Piece)

2010-06-30T09:26:00.001+01:00

Thanks Sandie for this gorgeous layout made from the July Kit. The picture is very cute!

The Crafty Alley Design Team

Keep Your Place With...

2010-06-29T23:43:00.000+01:00

... an oversized tag bookmark!

This week I've used one of the Tattered Angels alterables to make a bookmark. It's rather on the large size for a bookmark, but it still does the job!

I first inked up the tag with a mixture of Victorian Velvet, Broken China and Shabby Shutters Distress Inks, and then spritzed it all over with a mixture of Perfect Pearls and water. I then simply layered up and embellished my design with the Design Paper, Prima Chipboards, Flowers and gemstones.

Although.. now looking at it.. I think I may eventually turn this into a special 'page' in a mini album! So many options :-)

Thanks for peeking!

Katie
xoxo

The July Kit: Prima and Tattered Angels Deliciousness

2010-06-26T17:52:00.001+01:00

Fun Fun Fun!!

2010-06-18T18:26:00.000+01:00

Well, that title just about sums up the time I've spent with the June Kit!!!

I've made this card with my last few pieces of paper. I used Nestabilities to cut my circle and scallopped circle, and then simply stamped an owl into the centre, and the flowers in the corner pieces! I then made the paper ribbon sentiment by stamping the 'Fun,Fun,Fun' sentiment onto the design paper, and then cutting it out into a ribbon shape and inking the edges with Black Stazon ink. Finally, I added some Glossy Accents to the Owl's eyes, and that's it!

And just to tease you all... if you thought the June Kit was good.. 'you ain't seen nothin' yet'!
Hugs

Katie xoxo

I'm Loving the New Tim Holtz Dies..

2010-06-17T10:14:00.001+01:00

...available HERE!!

Here is a card I've made using some of the paper from this month's kit. I die cut the sign with the Hanging Sign Die, and then painted it with Black Indian Ink - I just love the rich, glossy depth of shade that you get with Indian Ink.

I then simply painted a stamped image with watercolour paints, and added a few lemon coloured scraps of ribbon and paper to complete my design!

Thanks for popping by!

Hugs

Katie xx

Our Guest Designer Nicole's Vintage Shabby Cards...

2010-06-16T08:31:00.000+01:00

Good sunny morning everybody! I am delighted to show you these beautiful cards made by Nicole .

Nicole said she has been making a card a day since she got the new kit and wow what gorgeous cards. Hop over to Nicole's blog and take a look at what she has been up to!

Oh and don't forget you can now see all of the guest designers work, plus news, my own ramblings etc. on our Facebook Page and don't forget to "like"us! You can also find us on twitter.

Also you can be a guest designer too - just send us pics of what you have made with the month's kits and we will showcase your gorgeous creations!

Cathy x

Timi is back and wow......

2010-06-15T09:06:00.000+01:00

Good morning all - I am delighted to show you the gorgeous creation of our guest designer Timi this week.

The expandable photo box was inspired by Marion Smith at apieceofcraft.com. (Video tutorial in link)

For more details on how Timi made this project visit her post here.

Timi said "I loved all the Crafty Alley Monthly Kits, but this is my favourite so far, because I really like Tim Holtz and his metal pieces and I was happy to get few pieces from many of his products. I couldn't wait to get my hands on the distressed papers they are just so versatile, and all the things in the kit coordinate well with each other, so you can do many projects of it."

Thank you so much Timi for being part of our team again this month and we are looking forward to seeing more of your creations!

Cathy

Introducing Sandra as our Guest Designer

2010-06-14T12:42:00.000+01:00

Hi all,

Meet Sandra our guest designer this week. Sandra is new to our kit club and has made these amazing projects after only having the kit for about a week. Sandra is also an active new member of our Ning Network and we are delighted to have her on board!

Check out these gorgeous altered items including tags, purses and a stunning card.

Thanks so much for sharing Sandra and we hope we will be seeing a lot more of your projects here on the design team!

Cathy

It's ATC time!

2010-06-11T16:07:00.001+01:00

Morning everyone,

Well, my week is now drawing to a close, so here is my final project using this month's kit: an ATC using the ATC-sized paper designs as a base.

I took the ATC sized piece from the kit, sanded the edges, scrunched it up, and then used the ink pad directly to the paper to ink it up. I then sprayed the whole piece with a mixture of water and Heirloom Gold Perfect Pearls, to give a glimmery effect. Unfortunately the photo doesn't really show it too well!

I then layered up my design, embellishing it with some of the Grungeboard Iconics and Rock Candy Distress Stickles. To get the speckled effect, I took the piece of grungeboard, laid it onto the ink pad face down, and pressed firmly. I then finished it off with some Glossy Accents.

Well, that's it from me! Next week is Guest Designer week, so please email Cathy your creations as soon as possible!! After that we will be seeing some projects from Robyn.

Hugs,

Katie xoxo

Funky Summer Journal

2010-06-11T09:20:00.001+01:00

Hi guys,

I have a journal to share with you today. I had lots of fun making it, and my desk is now covered in acrylic paint and sandpaper !

To alter the top note chipboard piece that came in the kit, I first embossed it using an embossing folder, then painted it with white acrylic paint. When that was dry, I sanded it to reveal the design, and then covered it in Stormy Sky Distress Ink. I then roughly painted around the edges again with more acrylic paint. I got the idea for this technique from the new book by Tim Holtz, 'A Compendium of Curiousities', which is available to buy HERE.

I altered the heart die cuts by first painting them all with white acrylic paint. For the crown I then simply added some Diamond Stickles. For the heart, I covered it in Rock Candy Distress Stickles, and then outlined it with silver Stickles. Finally, for the wings, I gave it a good layer of Distress Crackle Paint in Rock Candy, and when it had dried, I then splodged on more acrylic paint to heighten the texture, and give a distressed, feathery look.

I bound my book with book rings and added ribbons and string from the kit.

For the inside, I made three folders out of patterned paper, and stamped and embossed an image on to the front of each folder.

I also stamped each journalling page to add detail.

Well, that's it for today! I will be back again tomorrow with another project to share with you.

Hugs

Katie

Items from kit used:

Design Paper

Ribbons and Silver String

Distress Ink in Stormy Sky

Metal Corners

Top Note Chipboard Piece

Heart Die-Cut Chipboard pieces

Mini fasteners

I heart my Mini Album :o)

2010-06-10T01:00:00.000+01:00

Hellooo!!

I had SO much fun with the kit this month. I love it! No surprise really that it sold out in about three days!

This is the mini that I have made:

And now for the inside... lots of details and photos coming up :)

Pages One & Two

For the inside cover, I tried to make a sky effect by first painting the chipboard with white acrylic paint, and then splodging over the Distress Ink. I then just added a photo mat, some flowers and Liquid Pearls (you all know how much I love them).

The right hand page is a simple page, with a punched border holding in a selection of photo mats and tags.

Pages Three and Four

On the left hand side, I used my Nesties to make a circular photo mat, which I them simply embellished with a hand made flower, and a tag tucked behind the photo mat.

The right hand side is another pocket page.

Pages Five, Six and Seven

I loved the paper on the left hand page so much that I didn't want to cover it much, so I simply painted the chipboard flourish from the kit with white acrylic paint, added some Distress Stickles, and made a flower with the Tim Holtz Tattered Florals die, and the flourish holds the tags in place.

I also made an acetate page, where I just used my Crop a Dile Big Bite to set some flowers with eyelets, and then inked the edges with Black Stazon.

On the right hand page, I added some of the Magic Mesh from the May Kit, then used one of the ATC sized designs from this month's kit as a photo mat, which also hides more tags and tickets behind. I decorated this flourish with white acrylic paint and Petal Pink Liquid Pearls.

Pages Eight and Nine

Two simple pages - swivel out photo mats on the left hand side, and simply flowers and Liquid Pearls to make a framed page on the right hand side.

Pages Ten and Eleven

On the left hand side, I simply made a top note with design paper, tied around some of the lace from the kit and added a trinket pin (thanks Club Member Sandie for the idea on using the trinket pin!). I made the top note into a pocket to hold another photo mat, and added one of the Snippets at the top for a title.

On the right hand side, I used up my scraps to decorate one of the envelopes from the kit, which holds tags both inside and behind.

Back Cover

Finally, I simply added a locket that I die cut from artists mount board on the back.

I hope you guys like it and that I haven't bored you all with such a long post!!

Hugs

Katie xoxo

Items from kit used:

Design Paper

Grey A4 Paper

Lace and Ribbons

Tim Holtz Key Hole

Tim Holtz Ball Chain

Distress Ink in Stormy Sky

Tim Holtz Foliage

Tim Holtz Mini Fasteners

Grungeboard Iconics

Chipboard Flourishes

Tim Holtz Journalling Tickets

Tim Holtz Trinket pins

Envelopes

Ribbons, flowers, and butterfly embellisments from stash.

Tutorial Wednesdays: How To Make a Frame Brag Book!

2010-06-10T00:00:00.000+01:00

Hello!

As promised, here is the tutorial for the Brag Book I showed you yesterday.

For this tutorial, you will need:

Glue Stick

A frame die and die-cutting machine

Your June kit

Artists mount board or chipboard, available HERE

Hole punch, eyelet setter and 6 eyelets

Firstly, cut six pieces of chipboard, big enough to die cut a frame out of, and cover them in your favourite patterned paper.

Now, die cut 6 frames.

I have chosen a curly frame for this project. Once cut, your frame will look like this:

The six frames will go back-to-back to make three frame pages.

Now, cut six pieces of acetate for the frame windows. I am using the acetate from Sizzix die packaging, but then again I am slightly obsessed with recycling! Waste not, want not :-)

Glue the acetate onto the back of each of your six frames. I find Glossy Accents works well for this step.

You should now have six frames like this:

Next, punch each frame in the corner, and set an eyelet into each frame to make the book hard wearing.

Then, add foam squares on the bottom and two sides, and sandwich your frames together.

You should now have something that looks like this, and you can slip in your photographs from the top. I have slipped in some of the ATC sized designs from the kit, they look so cute!

You can now bind the book, either with a book ring or with ribbon, and embellish it as you like!

I hope this tutorial was helpful!

Hugs,

Katie xoxo

Grandma's Little Brag Book

2010-06-09T00:09:00.000+01:00

Good Morning!!

Katie here, and I will be sharing some projects with you this week.

I have a little brag book to show you today. It has three double sided frames, perfect for popping in your handbag and showing off pictures of the kids at every opportunity!

I will post a tutorial tomorrow on how to make this project!

Also, next week will be Guest Designer Week! I have had a little peek over on the Crafty Alley Ning Network, and I know for a fact that there is some AMAZING work being done with this month's kit. So, please email photos of your work to cathy@craftyalley.com , for a chance to be a Guest Designer.

Hugs

Katie xoxo

Items from kit used:

Design Paper

Lace

Silver String
Tim Holtz Muse Token

Super Dad

2010-06-04T15:24:00.001+01:00

Hi and thanks for stopping by. Today I'd like to show you a card that I've made using the gorgeous DP from the June Kit.

Materials used:-

DP: June Kit

Tim Holtz Journal Ticket: June Kit

Enjoy Sentiment: May Kit

Large Red Brads: April Kit

Everything else is from my stash.

Ok that's it for me and I hope you enjoy you're weekend.

Hugs Michele x

Summer Fun Card

2010-06-03T14:51:00.001+01:00

Hi there and thanks for stopping by. Today I'd like to show you a card using the gorgeous papers and embellishments from the June kit.

All the items used on this card are from the June Kit, apart from the image, star shape and poppers.

Here's a close-up of the metal corners that is in the June kit.

And here's a close-up of one of the metal sentiments that is in the kit.

Here's another close-up of the metal Tim Holtz Idea-Ology embellishments that comes in the June Kit.

Hope you enjoy the rest of your day.

Hugs Michele x

Tutorial Wednesday - Handmade Paper Flowers with Stamen Centres

2010-06-02T13:02:00.001+01:00

Hi there and thanks for stopping by. Today I've a tutorial to show you on how to make the above flowers along with the handmade stamen centres.

Here is a list of supplies to make the above flowers:-

4 x 5 petal flower shapes

Piece of string

Crushed Velvet Flocking (or anything similar)

Embossing Tool

Clothes peg

Marker pen

Piercing tool

Scissors

Tweezers

PVA glue

On each flower, cut down the petals to open them up more. In the picture I've tried to show you roughly where to cut.

Turn the flowers onto the wrong side. On each petal, emboss just the outside petals in small circular motions. Then with the embossing tool again, gently go down each petal to create a line.

Now turn the flowers onto the right sides and emboss the centre of each flower until they resemble the flowers on the left hand side.

In the centre of each flower, pop a small blob of pva glue and start layering them up. On the last flower also pop a small amount of glue. At this point get your piercing tool to make a hole all the way through. Make sure it's quite a large hole as the string has to go though this.

Now get your piece of string and this is where the marker pen comes in. Colour the string whatever colour you want just by dabbing the pen onto the string. This way it won't ruin the nib of your pen. Wait a few minutes for the ink to dry and then start twisting the string until it starts to unravel. Separate the string until it resembles the above picture.

Now attach the string to the clothes peg and carefully dip the ends into some glue. Make sure you get a nice bit on the ends.

Next step is to sprinkle the flocking, glitter, flower soft etc.... onto each section. Make sure that it is fully coated. Then carefully feed the string through the top hole of the flower all the way through to the last flower layer. I find this is where the clothes peg comes in handy again as this will keep the string in place as it dries.

And here's a close up of what the flower will look like

I hope that this tutorial has given you some ideas on how to make paper flowers.

Hugs Michele x

June Kit Unveiled

2010-05-31T11:23:00.000+01:00

Introducing Ann Healy as our Guest Designer This Week

2010-05-29T17:18:00.001+01:00

Hello everyone,

Our guest designer this week is the very talented Ann Healy!

She has made an absolutely fabulous Parisian layout for us this week:

The way she has altered the Prima flower from the kit is bordering on genius! So effective and pretty!

Ann has combined and layered lots of elements from this month's kit and really embraced the vintage theme!

You can find Ann over on the Crafty Alley Ning Network , so if you haven't already signed up, what are you waiting for? There are lots of super talented ladies sharing their work over there.

She also has a new blog HERE, so check that out too.

Katie xoxo

This has been a great kit!

2010-05-28T08:01:00.000+01:00

Hi Ladies, I can hardly believe that it's time to close out another kit month! Where has the time gone?! Have you enjoyed seeing all of the DT projects as much as I have? So many great ideas to inspire.

Thank you Cathy for creating such a great kit for all of us to work/play with. Can't wait for the June kit, I'm sure everyone will just LOVE it!

The supplies used from the Crafty Alley May kit were:

Bazzil cardstock

Vintage Findings patterned paper

Vintage Findings Ephemera die cuts

Vintage Findings paper ribbon

Cotton ribbon trim (1 was Glimmer Misted)

Card base and envelope

May Vintage Findings Kit

2010-05-27T10:49:00.001+01:00

Hi there and thanks for stopping by. Today I'd like to show you some cards that I've made using the gorgeous DP from the May Vintage Findings Kit.

Supplies used:-

Bazzil cardstock

Bazzil Bling Cardstock

Vintage Findings patterned paper

Distress Stickles

Hope you like the cards that I've created and has given you a little inspiration.

Enjoy the rest of your week.

Hugs Michele x

Tutorial Wednesdays: How To Make a Star Book

2010-05-26T21:36:00.000+01:00

Hi Guys!

Here is the star book tutorial as promised.

Also, I have added some more photos from Ebony to the Monday post, so scroll down and have a look!!

Hugs

Katie xoxo

Vintage Star Book

2010-05-24T21:44:00.000+01:00

Hello everyone,

Today I have a star book to share with you all. Here it is closed ..

I made a charm using the Magic Mesh supplied in the kit, and one of the butterflies from the butterfly ribbon, which I coloured with inks and adhered to one of the Tim Holtz fragment charms. I also added the key from the kit and tied some of the red ribbon to the swivel clasp.

Here is the book opened out:

I will be posting a tutorial on this project TOMORROW so stay tuned!!

Hugs

Katie xx

Introducing This Weeks Guest Designer: Ebony!!

2010-05-23T21:48:00.000+01:00

Hello everyone!!

How are you all? I hope you have all had a fantastic weekend and enjoyed the beautiful weather!
We have a great start to the week this week, and it is my great pleasure to introduce to you our Guest Designer for this week: Ebony!

Ebony has made a couple of projects for us this week; firstly, an altered art journal:

Ebony has also made a beautiful chipboard mini page for us using the May kit:

I love how Ebony has combined her artistic style with a vintage photograph to create a piece that is as unique as it is beautiful..

Here's a few words from Ebony on her project:

"Hey guys, Design Kits are exciting! :) This was my first kit and it really was a great selection of crafty bits, very inspiring! I used the scalloped chipboard piece because it was just asking to be decorated! I used the red felt sheet (which got glammed up with Stickles), black lace and a Dabber (which wasn't in the kit) and made my first side. For the other side, I used a tattered rose Distress Ink to make it a bit colourful and then used one of the Vintage Findings papers to give it an old feel :) I found a picture of my boyfriends grandmother which was just perfect for my page and I embellished with the flowers. For the first side I used the swivel clip,key,hinge clip and pin to create a diverse look and I really loved the finished piece and I hope you do too! :) Thanks xx"

You can see more of Ebony's work on her blog HERE. Why not pop over and give her some crafty love?

Don't forget we are always looking for Guest Designers to be featured on Mondays, so please continue to email Cathy your beautiful creations.

Katie xoxo

A Rose is a Rose

2010-05-21T08:01:00.000+01:00

Hi Everyone,

Thanks so much for stopping by today. Here is a card made using the May kit from Crafty Alley. Hope you like it.

Supplies from the kit used were:

Bazzil cardstock

Bazzil Bling Cardstock

Vintage Findings patterned paper

Gems

Hope you have a great week!

Crafty Hugs,

Robyn xx

Chipboard Clipboard Tutorial

2010-05-20T07:48:00.000+01:00

Hi there and thanks for stopping by. Today I'd like to show you how I've made this cute little clipboard using items from the May Vintage Findings Kit.

1 x Scalloped Chipboard piece

1 x DP 12.5cm x 9.5cm

1 x DP 12cm x 9cm

1 x DP 8.5cm x 7cm

1 x DP 8cm x 6.5cm

Distress Stickles

Distress Ink

Gems

First of all ink all the edges of the Scalloped Chipboard piece using distress ink. For my project I've used Frayed Burlap.

Next ink all the edges of the DP again using Distress Inks. For the next step I've added Distress Stickles to the edges of the Scalloped Chipboard piece along with the DP.

Next I've used MME Bloom & Grow clear stamps set from Crafty Alley and stamped the images using Frayed Burlap Distress Inks. I've then applied double-sided tape to the underneath and stuck the papers down in the above layout.

And here is the end result after applying a cute little image and some flowers along with the Tim Holtz Idea-ology Hinge Clips and Swivel Clasps

I hope that this tutorial has given you some ideas.

Hugs Michele x

Crafty Contacts Book

2010-05-18T14:36:00.000+01:00

Introducing Timi as our guest designer this week.

2010-05-17T11:41:00.000+01:00

Hi all,

This week I am delighted to introduce our guest designer Timi. Timi made this gorgeous exploding box using this months Crafty Alley May Kit (which has already sold out). If you have missed this months kit you can still register for next months kit. Please just email the shop and we will include you in our monthly kit club.

This exploding box is amazing and incorporates journalling, pockets and tags. You can read more about the project here on Timi's blog.

Thank you so much Timi for submitting your May kit project and being our guest designer this week Timi!

Remember you too can be a guest designer this month. Just email me pictures of a project you have completed using this months May kit.

Thanks all

Cathy x

Crafty Home Decor Made with Love

2010-05-14T08:01:00.001+01:00

Hi Everyone, I have a quick and fun piece of home decor to share with you today using the Crafty Alley Kit for May which is available for purchase HERE (only 1 or 2 left I believe). This was the first project that I completed when I saw this awesome kit. I created it using the scalloped chipboard piece; which I first painted (2 coats) with my Adirondack Dabber in Snow Cap. I then painted the surface with Distress Crackle Paint in Rock Candy and set it aside to dry over night. The next day I sprayed it with Moonlight Glimmer Mist so that the detail of the crackling effect would be more visible and give it a more aged appearance. The May kit comes with an entire roll of Magic Mesh. I added a strip of it behind the photo. The photo itself is matted on some of the patterned paper from the Vintage Findings collection (also included in the kit). I Glimmer Misted the 2 Prima Flowers from the kit in Olive Vine and Moonlight, added a fabric flower and 3 gems from the kit. The trim is from the Crafty Alley Shop; which can be purchased separately.

Here's what I used from the kit for this project:

Scalloped Chipboard Square/Rectangle

Magic Mesh

2 Prima Flowers

Vintage Finding Patterned Paper (photo mat)

Ribbon

Gems

Hinge Clip

Garment Pin

Tag

Crafty Hugs,

Robyn xx

Scalloped Chipboard Clipboard

2010-05-13T12:21:00.001+01:00

Hi there everyone and thanks for stopping by. Today I'd like to show you a little project that I've made using items from the gorgeous May Vintage Findings Kit.

Everything apart from the flowers and image I've used which is in the May Vintage Findings Kit. I'll put together a tutorial on how to make this cute little clipboard and post it on here in the next few days - so watch this space :0)

Enjoy the rest of your day.

Hugs Michele xx

Tutorial Wednesday: How to make a Carnation Flower

2010-05-12T12:08:00.001+01:00

Hi guys,

Katie here, and I have a quick tutorial to share with you today.

I don't know about you all, but I am slightly obsessed with flowers. I grow them, I buy them, I draw them, I paint them, I decorate with them, I make them, I even eat them (edible ones, in a salad of course).

One of my favourites (not to eat!! ha ha) is this type of carnation, so I decided to work on a method to make a flat(ish) version out of paper that I could use on cards and other papercrafting projects. And, the best part of this tutorial is that it uses SUPER cheap materials.

I'm not at home at the moment, I had to go unexpectedly to the UK so don't have access to all my usual equipment, so big thanks to Jo Brett for allowing me to use all your things! She has the pink Cuttlebug, isn't it cute??

For this tutorial you will need:

plain old white computer printer paper
any type of edging scissors
glue
watercolour paints
a die-cutting machine and die, or flower punches. Whichever you use, you will need to be able to cut three different sizes of flower. I am using the Hello Kitty nested flowers Sizzlet.

Firstly, you will need to cut your paper pieces. Die-cut or punch 7 large flowers, 3 medium flowers, and 3 small flowers.

Then, use your scissors to trim off the very ends of your petals to give a frilly look.

With your 7 larger flowers, gradually cut off more and more of the petal to make the petal layers gradually reduce in size.

You should now have something like this:

Now, using whatever colour you like, paint the edges with watercolour paints. You could also use inks, or pens, or whatever you have. I just love watercolours :)

You should now have something like this. On the smallest flowers, I also painted some yellow and green into the centres.

When they are dry, it's time to add some body to the petals. For this, I have used a hair grip! But you could use whatever you like. I thread each petal into the grip, and twist.

This makes each layer look a bit like this:

When they are all completed, you should have something like this:

Now, layer up your pieces and glue into place, and you're done!!

Well that's all for today. I hope you have found this tutorial useful. If you decide to make some carnations, why not leave a comment here with a link to your project, I would love to see what you come up with.

Also don't forget, if you have bought the May Kit you can apply to be a Crafty Alley Guest Designer!! Check out the Ning network for more details.

Hugs,

Katie xoxo

Fun Squash Book

2010-05-11T08:01:00.000+01:00

Hi Ladies,

Thanks so much for stopping by today. I have a Squash Book to share with you today using supplies from the May Crafty Alley Kit. Hope you enjoy it.

The supplies from the kit used were:

Bazzil cardstock

Vintage Findings patterned paper

Metal key

Bling

Tim Holtz Fragment

Bling

Garment Pin

Crafty Hugs,

Robyn xx

Guest Designer Nicole Mullen's Hanging Shopping List

2010-05-10T16:00:00.000+01:00

Is this not what every home needs? This beautiful hanging shopping list was designed and created by Nicole Mullen using May's Crafty Alley Kit. We love the use of the lace for framing and the papers Nicole has chosen. We will be looking forward to seeing a lot more from Nicole!

You can see more of Nicole's work over at http://nicoleqmullen.wordpress.com/. Why not stop by her blog and say hello!

Big thanks to Nicole for sharing her work and being our first guest designer!

Cathy x

P.s. Remember you too can be a guest designer - just send in a picture of something you have made with a Crafty Alley Kit by Friday evening and I will post it the following Monday!

Fun in the Sun

2010-05-08T08:00:00.001+01:00

Hi there everyone and thanks for stopping by. Today I'd like to show you a card that I've made using items from the gorgeous May Vintage Findings Kit.

Everything listed below is what I've used on this card is from the May Vintage Findings Kit:-

DP Making Memories Vintage Findings - Green Floral Findings & Postcards Findings
Bulldog clip
Postage stamp
Green gems

If you would like to see what other gorgeous items are in this kit, please click here.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend

Hugs Michele x

Chez Marguerite...

2010-05-05T19:10:00.000+01:00

Hi guys,

Well you all know how excited I was about the new kit that came out this week! Well, now I have it, and I LOVE it!!!!

So.. with no further rambling on my part, here is my first project using the May Vintage Findings kit.

I used the scallopped chipboard piece, covered it in one of the patterned papers and inked the edges. Embellishment wise, I used the Prima flower, lace, butterfly ribbon and gems from the kit, and the decorative panel is from the elements page, backed on to the plain Bazzil cardstock.

I used my Windsor and Newton bottled inks to add some colour to the centre of the Prima flower, and also to dye the butterfly crimson. I also stamped a flower image in Brushed Cordoroy Distress Ink and coloured the edges with the same crimson ink.

It looks tres cute on the back of my craft room door!!

Hugs,

Katie xx

May Kit Video

2010-05-05T11:38:00.000+01:00

Prima Paintables

2010-05-04T10:51:00.001+01:00

Hi Ladies,

Included in the absolutely amazing Crafty Alley Kit for May is a lovely 12x12 Prima Paintable from the Iron Orchid Designs line. I just love working with these! They are so versatile and are made from watercolour paper, so works well with inks, paints, chalks, etc.

If you would like to see what else comes in the fabulous kit, you can click here for further information and ordering details.

Crafty Hugs,

Robyn xx

Vintage Findings May Kit Now Online

2010-05-02T11:31:00.000+01:00

Hi all,

I am delighted to announce our latest kit which is based on Making Memories Vintage Findings Range.

In this kit you will get

This month we bring you an amazing kit based on the Making Memories Vintage Findings Range. In this kit you will get

3 Bazzill Cardstock in 12x12
1 Sheet of Vellum 12x12
1 Prima Paintable 12x12
8 Double Sided Vintage Findings Paper 12x12
1 Polka Dot Ribbon
2 Lace Ribbons
1 Butterfly Ribbon
1 Scalloped Chipboard Piece
1 Card and Envelope
Darkroom Door Art De Fleur Thumbnail Images
A Magic Mesh Roll
A Distress Stickle
2 pots of gems
Tim Holtz Swivel Clasps, Fragments, Hinge Clips
1 Large and 2 Small Prima Flowers
Vintage Findings including Envelope, Labels, Tickets, Stamps, Flower Pin and Garment Pins
2 Cut Piece of Fabric (Red and Ivory)

The value of this kit is well over €50 but we are selling it to you for just €30!

Don't forget to see what our design team are doing with this kit by visiting The Crafty Alley Design Team Blog

Cathy

Felt Tote for a Tiny Tin and Mini

2010-04-30T08:09:00.000+01:00

Everything used to create this project is included in the April kit with the exception of the tin; which can be purchased separately from the Crafty Alley shop.

Wow, try saying that title 5 times fast! I have one final post using the incredibly sweet, fun, and whimsical April Crafty Alley kit. It will be sad to see it go, but the day is not over yet. If you would like to purchase this kit, and reserve a May kit for yourself by doing so you can click HERE for ordering information. The kit for May is WAY over the top! Cathy did a fabulous job putting it all together! I absolutely am in love with it!

Included in the April kit was an A4 piece of felt; which at first glance, I just thought about die cutting and adding it as a project element. But then I decided it would make an adorable little tote to hold the tin I made for my daughter with a little accordion mini inside. It went together very quick, and my daughter is really enjoying it. Hope you've enjoyed seeing all of the DT projects this month. I know that I have.

Here are a couple of photos of how the tote was cut. I didn't include the sewing or hot glueing part, but that is pretty self explanatory. All I did was use the large strip to attach the 2 top note shapes that I cut with my Big Shot, and the 2 smaller strips are the handles; which I hot glued on. The large strip is the bottom and sides of the tote and can be cut to suit the width you'd like.

I cut the 2 handles each at 1", and the strip for the bottom/sides of the tote at 2".

If you don't have a die cutter, you can also create a tote as shown just by folding it in half and attaching the handles, and eliminate the bottom section by cutting the larger strip to fit the width of the sides. I used a Sizzix Bigz die in a top note shape cut twice for my tote. Hope that makes sense.

Have a great weekend.

♥Robyn

Material Girl Sewing Box

2010-04-29T20:38:00.001+01:00

Hi there everyone and thanks for stopping by. Today I'd like to show you a project that I made using items from the April Kit (apart from the flowers and the cotton reels)

I have so many little reels of cotton that I decided to make this little box with four drawers that would hold them all in.

For this drawer I used the scissor charm from the kit and glued it to the button which is also from the kit.

For these drawers I've used the beads from the kit and I've attached them using buttons which are also included with wire and then glue.

I hope this has given you some ideas on how versatile this kit is.

Hugs Michele xxx

A Needle Case for the Material Girl ... + TUESDAY TUTORIAL

2010-04-27T00:20:00.000+01:00

Hi Everyone,

Katie here, and this week it's my turn to show you a tutorial using this month's kit. This is the last week of this month's kit, and don't forget that the only way to guarantee your place for next month's kit is to buy the April kit!!

Last week I featured the Early Bird paper range, so this week I decided to feature the other paper range included in the kit: Material Girl by Cosmo Cricket.

I have made an open up case to store all my sewing needles and pins etc...

Here is the front cover..

And here is the inside... there are spaces to store pins, safety pins, and my measuring tape...

So.. Let's get started!!

Firstly, I cut two thick pieces of cardboard to make the front and back covers. I recycled the back of an old watercolour paper pad, as it is VERY thick and durable. I then covered both sides of each page with the Material Girl papers.

I then sanded the edges to give a smooth finish. (Look at the cool sanding tool my Daddy made me last time I visited home :-) )

I then used Distress Inks to ink up the edges (I used Brushed Cordoroy - my favourite go-to ink)

Next up, I cut out a sentiment panel from the borders page, and again inked the edges...

I then highlighted some detail on the panel using Glossy Accents, and finished adding the decorative elements to my front cover...

Now it's time to make the hinges. I used the Grungeboard rectangles included in this months kit, covered them in one of the papers and inked the edges, and then punched two holes in each hinge. (Nearly broke my hole punch.. note to self, buy a Crop-a-dile!!)

I then put one of the American Craft's brads included in the kit through each hole, to give a riveted effect.

I then glued the hinges onto the front and back covers, and tied some fibres around the front cover to add detail. I also added a half backed pearl from the kit to each hinge.

Now it's time to work on the inside...

I took a piece of the border page, inked the edges, and punched two holes and threaded through some ribbon...

I then glued the paper panel down and used the ribbon to tie around the tape measure and hold it in place...

For the other page, I used a Nestabilities die (available from the Crafty Alley), to die-cut a felt panel, and again punched two holes through it and threaded through this GORGEAUS daisy lace from the kit...

I tied the daisy lace around the back of the book, and I now have a felt panel to store all my needles and safety pins in...

Well, that's it!! I hope you enjoyed the tutorial ... my next post will be using the MAY kit.. and I am so excited!! Roll on next Tuesday!

Hugs,
Katie xxx

It's A Challenge.....

2010-04-27T00:16:00.000+01:00

Hey everyone,

How are you all? My Monday post is a little late, I know, but I had some family things the past few days that delayed me!! So now it's just after midnight, (technically Tuesday) and I finally have a quiet moment to share with you!! This week is the last week of the April kit (Sob!!). It was such a fun kit to work with. I especially loved the papers as there was so much you could do with them. This week I made a tag and pocket entirely out of design paper.....

After the layout I made last week, I just had to cut up some more of the fab paper and challenge myself to use only that to embellish my tag......

There were so many border strips, quotes, images, patterns............

And of course I had to add some distressing.......

So my CHALLENGE to you is this...... create something, anything, using ONLY design paper. Be creative. Do not be afraid to cut that paper any which way you please!!!! You will have two weeks to link your work here and become a follower of the blog. We will the pick a winner and that lucky someone will win a fab prize sponsored by The Crafty Alley!

Have fun!!

Louise xx

Grunge Board Circles are a "Rose" to work with!

2010-04-23T08:10:00.000+01:00

Hey there Crafty Alley gals! I can't believe it's Friday already! The week has really flown by!

Have you ordered your April kit yet? There's still time, but there are only a few kits left. Also, by purchasing the April kit, it secures your spot for ordering the May kit when it comes out. There will be a limited quantity of each monthly kit. I'm still enjoying my April kit so much! It has been lots of fun playing with it, as well as seeing what the other DT members have created throughout the month. Hasn't it been fabulous?!

The rose on the tag pouch below is the Tim Holtz Grunge Circles that came in my kit. I created this lovely flower, and still have enough circles to create yet another flower as well! Doesn't it look almost like leather?

The tag is chipboard cut from the Sizzix Jumbo Tag die

I knew it would be fun to come up with a new idea for how to use these versatile Grunge Board elements. It sure was! Hope you like it, and that it inspires you to create something today!

Crafty Hugs,
❦Robyn xx

If you would like to purchase the April Crafty Alley kit, you can click here for a full list of what comes in the kit as well ordering information. :o)

Recipe Box Tutorial by Michele Roos

2010-04-22T19:41:00.001+01:00

Hi there and thanks for stopping by. Today it's my turn to do a post and I thought that I'd show you a tutorial on how to make this cute little Recipe Box using the gorgeous goodies in the April Kit.

First, you will need a piece of cardstock that is 6 3/4" x 10 3/8" (this will be the bottom). and a piece that measures 7 3/8" x 11" (this will be the top)

Score the 6 3/4" x 10 3/8" piece at 2 1/2" on all four sides.

Score the 7 3/8" x 11" piece at 2 3/4" on all four sides.

Crease all score lines using a bone folder (on both the top and bottom pieces).

Make vertical cuts (following the score lines) to create "flaps" in each corner on both the bottom and top pieces of the cardstock

**Optional** - I like to cut off part of the flaps (see picture above). I find that it makes for a nicer finished product, but this step is completely up to you.

**Optional** - To pretty up the box a little bit I've used some of the gorgeous DP from the April Kit and then stuck it down using double sided tape.

Using a strong doubled sided adhesive, assemble both the bottom and top pieces.

For the dividers, that go inside the box, I made mine 5 1/4" x 3 1/4". I also glued the circle tabs (see pictures below) so that they stick up above the top of the divider. This is important because I have created the top of the box longer...to accommodate those tabs. If you would put the tabs flush with the top of the dividers, the top of the box would be too long.

Here are some additional pictures of the box and the dividers I created...

All the material, apart from the divider tags, I've used to create this project is from the April Kit.

I hope that you've enjoyed this tutorial and has given you a little inspiration on what you can create using the gorgeous goodies from the April Kit from the Crafty Alley.

Hugs Michele xxx

It would be rude not to...

2010-04-20T11:12:00.000+01:00

...make recipe cards with these AMAZING papers!!

Morning everyone,

I am totally in love with the Cosmo Cricket Early Bird range, one of the paper ranges included in this month's kit. So, I decided to make some little folders containing recipe cards for all my favourite recipes...

Every single item on this first one (apart from Distress Inks in Brushed Cordoroy and Shabby Shutters) are from this months kit. I love the felt flowers and large blue American Crafts brads.. they are so versatile.
Take two... similar design but on this one I added a couple of Prima flowers and gem from my stash...

And here are some of the recipe cards I made to go inside...

This one was a great way to use up all my scraps in a collage style design...

I just love the corrugated card included in the kit...

On this one I cut out a flower from the papers and used my Martha Stewart rose leaf punch to make some co-ordinating leaves...

Well that's it for today, I hope you like it!

Hugs,
Katie xx