THE INBETWEEN DAYS

Hi everyone

Well, where did it go?  Christmas Day whizzed by, closely followed by Boxing Day whizzing by almost as fast. We had a lovely time and I hope you did too.  Lots of gorgeous presents - some of which were lovely craft-related goodies.  The mountain of mince-pies are gradually reducing, the turkey has been dispatched to the stew-pot and frozen for another day, the recycling bin is full to over-flowing (as is the bottle one!) and one of my New Year's resolutions to lose weight and get fit is moving further up the list.

I did a bit of sales shopping yesterday for craft items.  I went to a local out-of-town site that has several well known stores and was very surprised at how quiet it was.  Even the drive in to the town wasn't as I had expected - - it was a very easy run.  Perhaps all the massive shopping bonanza's we hear about on the news are only taking place in London.  However, I had clearly missed most of the bargains (perhaps everyone was there the day before me?) but managed to get some things for one of my new 2012 projects.

The biggest surprise was that I also made a start on my website yesterday!  Incredible?  Amazing?  A New Year's resolution begun early - that has to be a first for me.  I am still working on the Home Page, but I have got the colours I wanted, which has always been a bit of a problem (well, a weak one I know), set up some pages so now it should be all systems go.  When it is 'going live' I will post a blog about it here - there will be a link on my website to my Blog and from this Blog to my website.  Plan to spend some time each day adding photographs and text - I haven't decided upon a publication date and know that if I put one in writing and miss it I will be kicking myself, so think it best to use the slogan of a shampoo from many years ago - 'wash and go' or rather in this case 'publish and go'.

Back to the website now.  I hope you all have a fantastic New Year.  We are spending our New Year's Eve here with good friends - they all live in walking distance so transport, when needed, will be Shank's Pony.

I will be back in 2012 and look forward to sharing blog news with you then

Jill

HAPPY CHRISTMAS

Hi everyone

A brief Christmas Eve blog post:

Happy Christmas and Season's greetings to all of my blog followers, blog comment-posters, my Facebook followers and my Twitter followers.  Thank you everyone for taking part - I have really enjoyed your contributions throughout 2011.  I hope you have a great Christmas and an even better 2012.

I will be back after Christmas - hope you have lots of fun in the meantime

Jill

DECK THE HALLS WITH BOUGHS OF HOLLY

Hello everyone

The usual weather forecast from Christmas Pie Crafts: it is mild, sort-of spring like, not Chrismasy at all and getting a little warmer every day.  I think the last two years at this time have been how we expect Christmas to be - snowy.  Not as bad as it was last year, but some snow around makes it just that little bit more seasonal.

A hectic week - the week before Christmas always seems to be crazy doesn't it?  No matter how many shopping lists I make, or trips to the supermarket I do, I always seem to manage to forget something.  Last food shopping trip today though - unless, of course, I forget something!  No, no, if I do, that's it we go without - now have I got the turkey...............  Last food and veggie shop completed this morning (and of course enough cat food to feed all of the cats in Surrey).  Very surprising how quiet (in comparison to previous years that is) the supermarkets are.  I will be interested to hear the sales figures once the Christmas period is over.  The economic forecast for next year appears to be all gloom and doom.

Although I plan on doing as little as possible over the Christmas period - apart from eating, drinking and being very merry, I would like to do some crafting,  So, in preparation I want to nip out to Art of Craft and buy some bits and pieces and also nip into the fabric shop next door to buy some material for the beginnings of next year's new projects. 

I prepared  a handout to go with my cards this year about card-making workshops that I would like to start in 2012 - I heard from two keen card-makers yesterday that they would like to take part in one of my sessions.  That's really good news and I am looking forward to setting these up.  I will be checking out venues in early January, so keep an eye out in future blog posts for more information.

'Have you finished all your Christmas shopping, Jazz?'  'I think so Daisy, how about you?'  Yes, everything bought, just a few things left to wrap up but I am having a problem tracking down mouse-flavoured stuffing for the turkey.'  That's perhaps a good thing, Daisy, as I don't think Jill and Richard will be very keen on that - they like the boring old sage and onion stuff.'

Enjoy the rest of the week everyone and I will be back with a very mini post on Christmas Eve.

Jill

HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS

Hi everyone

How are you?  Exhausted I am sure, but looking forward to the BIG day.  Not long now - the number of days left are into single figures.  I still have shopping to finish (as well as the fresh food stuff that is) and a few cards to write (and post). Very impressed that with all the preparations at the end of last week, we managed to get the majority of our cards written and posted.  Phew.  Next year we will be so much more prepared and will get them out early (er, yes, said that this year).

A mad but great weekend - always great to see friends and family, especially at this time of year.  Nice to have a fairly peaceful day today though - plans for today changed slightly and now have a hectic day tomorrow instead.  Seems the norm at this time of year - catching up with friends and family that we may not have seen for a while.

It is Handmade Monday and I haven't got anything handmade to show - well not of mine that is.  I recently bought a gorgeous peel-off Christmas tree from Ali's Craft Studio and this is it in-situ on our conservatory door:

It is lovely and the picture doesn't do it full justice.

I have been doing a little Christmas decorating around our place, so can definitely class them as hand made.  We are in the process of replacing a fire in the dining room and discovered that this will also involve replacing the whole fire surround.  So as it is the current one's last Christmas, though I would decorate it with holly and other leaves, branches, etc from the garden.  Added a length of wire decorated with roses and it looks Christmasy.

I recently bought a gorgeous red Poinsettia and wanted to do something about its container (a brown plastic pot).  At the same time I also bought, a half-price bargain, s large red vase.  I took the plant out of its pot, put it into a thick plastic bag, half filled the vase with red baubles and added the plant - not a great pic, but I am pleased with how it looks in reality.

Lastly, we have a big balloon-style candle holder that seems to sit around not doing much.  I filled it with red and white glass baubles of various styles and shapes and added a bunch of battery operated lights - more sparkles!

So, I can claim them as handmade although not under my Christmas Pie Crafts business banner.

Have a great day everyone and don't forget to hop around the blogs of my fellow crafters taking part in this week's Handmade Monday.

I will be back on Wednesday for my mid-week last pre-Christmas post.

Jill

OH, I WISH IT COULD BE CHRISTMAS EVERY DAY

Hi everyone

Well, perhaps not every day - just a bit too expensive and all that card-writing and present wrapping would be exhausting   Christmas is lovely, but once a year is enough I think.

Yipee, my white Christmas tree arrived and is now decorated and standing proudly in the porch - minus a top embellishment though. I haven't seen one I really like and I know in the spirit of Christmas Pie Crafts, I should make one, but think I will keep looking in the shops.  Not sure if I want a large red star or a fairy dressed in red.

Here is a pic of the porch - a little wonky, but think it gives the idea - may try one when it is dark to see the tree with the lights on.  Problem is as soon as you open our front door, the sensors kick in and the porch light goes on!  I will have to try to creep up on it and get a sneaky in-the-dark picture.

A busy day today - must get those cards made, written and posted.  Would you believe I actually wrapped some presents yesterday?  Little and often I think is my plan.  Couple of deliveries and a visit from a gas fitter today - we have been trying to get hold of a registered gas fitter and it seems to be proving pretty nigh on impossible.  Have emailed 6, only 2 replied - clearly the recession has not hit the gas fitter world.  Perhaps I should re-train.

Have a good day everyone - card-writing, pressie wrapping and big weekend get-together permitting, I will be back with Handmade Monday.

Jill

IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS

Hi everyone

Exciting, isn't it?  Less than two weeks to go to Christmas Day.  So much still to do before then - I have only written two cards and have about 40+ to write and post and apparently today is the busiest day for the Post Office, so perhaps I should help out and leave mine for one more day.  Nearly all presents have been bought, but none wrapped.  Must get them done this week or it will be Christmas 2012 before I get my act together!

It has been a busy week - both work-wise, socially and planning.  Things I have made during the week have pointed me in the direction for how my business will go in 2012.  I won't give up making cards as I really enjoy that part of my work, but I do know that cards are not enough to sustain a small business - so there will be some additions to the Christmas Pie Crafts range next year.

Spent Thursday with a friend - went to her gym and I managed to burn up 72 calories, then we had lunch!  Went to the Wisley Victorian themed event on Saturday with another friend - very surprised at how quiet it was.  Those of you that know Wisley, know they have a fabulous gift shop as well as the plant centre.  All very quiet - perhaps a sign of the times?

It's Handmade Monday - I am sure there are more Mondays in the week these days coz it comes around very quickly.  I never seem to be ready for it and despite planning to write my blog and photograph my makes ready for posting on Sunday evening, think I have only managed that about twice.  My make this week is the wreath I mentioned in my last post (courtesy of RoseMadeMe tutorial).  I made my wreath in red and white striped material and added a few red and white baubles.  I may have overdone the material quantity but like nature I abhor a vacuum, so had to fill in any spaces I could see.  I like it and it fits in with the Christmas red and white theme in my porch.  Well it will when my white Christmas tree arrives!  It was supposed to be delivered on Saturday, but sadly it wasn't.  Perhaps today...................

A mini-blog post today as have loads to do.  I still have cards to make, as well as loads to write, parcels to wrap (and two pressies still to buy), housework ready for the Saturday get-together here.  Hope you all have a great day and I will be back on Wednesday with my mid-week post.  Don;t forget to check out the other Handmade Monday bloggers - great things to see and read about.

Jill

SOFA SO GOOD

Hi everyone

No, not a typo - our new sofas were delivered today and very smart they look too.  We sold the old big sofa about 2 months ago and have been squashing ourselves into the smaller one - very cozy, but not great if you want to loll and stretch out.  These have arrived just in time for Christmas entertaining.  Jazz and Daisy have checked out the new sofas - Daisy isn't so sure yet, but Jazz thinks they are great and just ideal for cats and has given his seal of snoozing space approval.

Just hope the old small one goes quickly as it is getting a little cramped here.  It's on Ebay and if not sold by tomorrow evening, we will free-cycle it.

A busy-ish week so far.  Had an extra card order following on from another card order - always nice to get repeat custom.  Enjoyed lunch with a couple of friends on Monday - even better as we had a voucher for 20% off the meal.  My kind of bargain.  Out tomorrow with another friend for a Spa Day, which I know will be good fun.  Still haven't started our own Christmas cards, despite promising we would - perhaps this coming weekend...................  Today I began making a wreath following the Ros Made Me Ragtime Christmas Wreath tutorial - great instructions and my wreath it going well so far.  I will add a pic, or some pics to my next post.  Fingers crossed it turns out well.

Need to post my mid-week blog now and get back to my wreath making.

Enjoy the rest of the week everyone - I will be back for Handmade Monday.

Jill

CAKES, CAKES AND MORE CAKES

Hi everyone

I did my last Christmas Fair on Saturday and Father Christmas was there too - with his 'busiest day' looming, I am amazed he finds the time to be in so many places this month.  Mind you, he does have 11 months to get ready for his one-day-a-year-job - I couldn't his job though.  All that lugging around of great sacks of parcels, stopping at millions of homes, in and out of the sleigh (constantly thinking 'have I locked it?), exposed to the elements (you would think sleighs these days would be enclosed) and at the end of the night getting home to find there is still one present left in the sack and the home it should have been delivered to is half-way across the world.  Decision time: do I deliver it now, leave it for next year or pop it in the post?  Too much to cope with in one night - think I will stick to what I know best.

I won 12 gorgeous cup-cakes in the Christmas Fair's raffle - very tempting, but I am trying really hard to avoid sweet things, but I could see they were calling me when I went to the prize table to collect them.  However, I decided to hang out until Christmas for sweet things (I wish) and as we have cake-loving neighbours, they shared in my win.

Last week was a busy week in Christmas Pie Crafts: a card order plus getting ready for Saturday's event and also producing some stock specifically for my wall at Bourne Mill.  I want to have a sort out of my stock there and move things around - I remember one of the centre's traders saying to me that moving the stock around is a good sales tactic - it works too.

A busy week this week too (work-wise and me-wise) - have a card to make, plus promised myself  this year we will send our own Christmas cards out early (normally it is a last minute thing), out for lunch with friends today and off for a Spa Day with a friend on Thursday - no pamper treatments booked as I have my toes painted regularly at a local salon, but I know lots and lots of talking will take place.

Handmade Monday is here again and frightening to realise that there are only 2 more before Christmas  .  My 'show' today is a card I recently made for a specific order.  I have blotted out the words/names on the front as the card has not yet been posted by my customer.  The card is a step design and I have used papers from the Popular Crafts magazine website.  I used the larger printout for the background and then cut out several snow-covered trees to add to the front section.  It isn't a great photograph - found it tricky to photograph something that in effect is 3-D but I hope you like it.  Don't forget to visit the other blogs taking part in Handmade Monday - lots of lovely crafty goodies and great blog posts too.

Must get back to card-making - one order to complete this morning and I want to get it into the post before I meet up with my friends at lunch-time.  Enjoy the week everyone, I will be back on Wednesday with my mid-week blog post.

Jill

24 DAYS AND COUNTING

Hi everyone

Many thanks to everyone who posted on my Handmade Monday blog - very interesting and helpful comments about selling at fairs.

Not long before 'the day' when we will be getting up before the sparrows, wondering if we have got enough food the feed the two armies we think are arriving and thinking 'I hope that turkey is defrosted'.  I love Christmas, although it seems we all spend such a long time planning, shopping and cooking for the Big Day that when it arrives we are all shattered.  Still, it is good fun and a great excuse to abandon the diet.  We love this time of year because we get to see friends and family that we may not have managed to see during the year .

Christmas Pie Crafts is getting Christmasy - I know that the name of my business gives the impression that it is Christmas all year round.  Falling snow has been added to the blog and there may be other little seasonal bits added over the next 2 - 3 weeks.  Christmas is a great time to release my inner child.

Lots of people I know will be putting their Christmas tree up today - a little too early for us.  We have given up having a tree inside as Jazz and Daisy feel the need to conquer the tree and remove most of the decorations - we don't mind, but some bits are not exactly cat-friendly.  So, we have one in our porch and one shut away in the conservatory - they can see them but from a safe distance.  Christmas card writing this week - mammoth task and for many years something we seem to leave until the last minute!  This year, we have decided to get them done and posted reasonably early - watch this space though, as the best laid plans, etc, etc.

My last event of this year takes place on Saturday, 3 December:

Addlestone Pre-School Christmas Fair (2.00 pm - 4.00pm) at Brook Hall, Brox Road, Ottershaw, Surrey, KT16 0HG

If you live in the area, please do come along - I understand Father Christmas is visiting this fair.

Enjoy the rest of the week everyone.  I will be back with my HM post on Monday.

Jill

FATHER CHRISTMAS IS PROBABLY PACKING HIS SLEIGH

Hi everyone

27 days to go to Christmas - with the mild weather we have been having, seems a little strange to be rushing towards a time that we often associate with snow, cold weather.  In fact at the events I attended over the last few days, people were commenting that this time last year travel was difficult, the temperature was bitter and we were knee-deep in snow.  Lovely though it is to look at, please Mr Weather Man, keep the snow away for as long as possible.

It has been a very busy week in Christmas Pie Crafts land.  Three events in four days and I feel very tired.  Events have been busy, but spending is quite sporadic.  Certain items (food produces (pickles, jams, mustards) are always popular) sold well; bought-in items (shoes, handbags, jewellery) also did well; handmade doesn't seem to be doing very well at the moment, although I am not sure if this is UK-wide or just in certain areas.  The events I have attended have been very well organised and the footfall was good, each one had a good selection of products.  A friend emailed me yesterday evening to let me know of another event that took place in Surrey yesterday that only had 30 people through the door.  So, what is the answer?  Handmade items only or a mix of handmade and bought-in?  I have taken part in both and I really don't know the answer - my crystal ball is a bit cloudy recently (must be the snow on the way!).

I have been trying to find out recently what customers actually want or look for when they go shopping.  Most have said they want to buy items made in the UK, quality and value for money are at the top of the list too.  Unfortunately, nobody has yet said why they wouldn't buy handmade - so will keep on trying to track down any possible reasons for low sales.  Has anybody else carried out any sort of survey to find out how people feel about handmade goods?

Several months ago I started a range of mini-cards - they had dual purposes: gift cards (with envelopes) or mini greetings cards.  These have sold really well and this, I am sure, is due to a single price of 60p or 5 for £2.50 - everyone loves a bargain.  I added to the range with Christmas themed cards and these have also proved to be very popular.

Less than four weeks to Christmas which means not many Handmade Mondays left either.  I completed an order over the weekend for a birthday card for a rugby loving penguin fan.  I was going to post a pic on this blog, but the recipient is a possible blog-viewer and as his birthday isn't until later in the week, thought it best not to.  Instead I am including a picture of a butterfly-themed card I made during the week.  I love butterflies in crafting and think they add a gorgeous look to cards.  This is a stepped card and I have used butterfly-flower themed background paper and added silver/glitter decoupaged butterflies as well as butterflies cup form paper I had in stock.  Don't forget to check out the other Handmade Monday bloggers - gorgeous makes that you really must see, and of course read the great blog posts.

I am having a bit of a restful day today - I have two card orders to make up and will spend some time making final items for this weekend's event.

Have a good week everyone - I will be back on Wednesday with my mid-week post.

Jill

ALL WORK AND NO PLAY

Hello everyone

I keep referring to it, and it is a typical British habit, but this weather is very odd.  Foggy every day but so warm - perhaps the fog blanket is preventing the cold air getting through although it is very sunny while I am writing this post.

A busy, busy week so far - lots of events taking place over the next few days and I am really working hard to create new stock. The events Christmas Pie Crafts is taking part in between now and my next post are:

24 November 2011: A Pamper Evening (7.00 pm - 10.00 pm), The Jolly Farmer, Binsted Road, Blacknest, Alton, Hants, GU34 4QD

26 November 2011: Prior's Field Christmas Fair (11.00 am - 3.30 pm), Prior's Field School, Priorsfield Road, Godalming, Surrey, GU7 2RH

27 November 2011: Rydes Hill Preparatory School Christmas Fayre (2.00 pm - 4.30 pm) at Rydes Hill Preparatory School, Rydes Hill House, Aldershot Road, Guildford, GU2 8BP

As always, if you are in the area of any of these events, it would be great to see you.

A few weeks ago I mentioned that I had been picked as a 'winner' in Karen Clark's (Beads by Design) 300th blog post celebration.  I received my prize today and the goodies are gorgeous - especially nice is the Mary & Joseph ornament because I did like this when I saw it on Karen's blog.  Here are pictures of my wins - do check out Karen's website, she does make beautiful things.

 

I am really looking forward to next month.  I have one event booked in December and then I should have time to plan for next year, but more important is that I will have time to get ready for Christmas and catch up with friends and family.  Have various friends 'get-togethers' organised, which will be good fun, so looking forward to them, as well as another Pamper Day with a good friend  (in reality it is more likely to be a talk-the-hind-leg-off-of-a-donkey-day).


Have to get back to the card-making - so many cards to make so little time.  Great fun, though.


I hope you all enjoy the rest of the week - I will be back with my usual Sunday/Monday post.


Jill

IT'S NEARLY CHRISTMAS

Hi everyone

OK, OK, I know it isn't nearly Christmas but it's not that far off and I know someone not far from me (my sister) who is champing at the bit to get her Christmas tree set up and decorated.

A very foggy start to today and although I had hoped this meant a a sunny day, it wasn't.  Fog always makes things sound so still and quiet - or perhaps it clogs up my ears and mists my glasses.  The moisture fog creates can look lovely - it collects on spider's webs, branches, and makes some things look really pretty.

I took part in two Christmas fairs this week - one at a school which was very good.  The second one was at a local village hall which was a little disappointing, very quiet for everyone involved, but gave me a great opportunity to make some news cards.  I love startling, strong designs and as I had with me some black, silver and dark red glitter card I made the following cards which are my contribution to this week's Handmade Monday blog post:

I hope you like them - I love glitter card and red, black and silver are so stunning.  I have one more to add, but need to tweak it a little so will post it later in the week.

One final pic is not card-related, but I couldn't resist including it in this week's post - while we were packing for our recent holiday, we left a suitcase on the floor of the lounge.  Daisy, followed quickly by Jazz, decided it was a new comfy place to sleep - the caption for the pic (not a very good one) I feel is 'Don't worry Daisy, if we keep our eyes closed they won't see us and we can go on holiday with them'.

A very busy week ahead - three events so lots of new stock needed, plus sorting out and re-stocking my wall at Bourne Mill and I want to get to the WI Market on Thursday morning to hopefully sell my cards in the future, as I missed it last week. Don't forget to check out my Where Am I section and if you are able to come along to any of the events I am taking part in, it would be great  to see you.

Have a good week and don't forget to visit the other blogs taking part in Handmade Monday.

Jill

VERY EARLY SUNDAY OR JUST A LITTLE LATE WEDNESDAY POST?

Hi everyone

Certainly seems to be getting a  little colder every day - dare I say it but the skies do occasionally look as though they have some snow to be dropped on us.  Hopefully it is just my imagination.

A very busy week making stock for future events.  I attended the Wash C of E Junior School Gift & Shipping Evening on Tuesday and it was a great success.  Very well organised and very well attended too.  Well done Lorna - hope you arrange many more.

Don't forget to check out my Where Am I section.  My next event is on Saturday at Bramley - a fund-raising event for the Bramley Players.  I did this event last year and it was great.  I have also added another event to the list - I will be at the Addlestone Pre-School Christmas Fair on 3 December 2011.  This is my last event of the year, so if you live local to the school, it would be great to see you there.

As my regular Blog-followers know my blog is featured in the current issue of Popular Crafts.  The Popular Crafts website has a great forum, together with competitions and free downloads.  Have a look and join us on there for a chat about numerous things

Over the last few weeks I have tried as often as possible to take part in the Handmade By Me Thursday Blog-Hop - overloaded this week and I haven't been able to contribute.  However, do have a look at the Forum and if you are a crafter, join us and take part in the blog-hop.

Off to an Evening Event at the RHS Wisley this evening with a friend.  Nibbles and mulled wine - and of course shopping.  From previous years I know the decorations inside and outside are gorgeous, so really looking forward to this year's event.

A short post today, but will be posting on Sunday/Monday Handmade with reports on the events I have between now and then and everything else that has been going on at Christmas Pie Crafts.

Enjoy the rest of the week

Jill

THE HOLIDAY IS OVER

Hi everyone

We have been on holiday in Malta for the last week and the weather has been glorious.  The temperature during the day around 22 degrees and about 16 - 18 degrees at night.  Hard to believe it is November - being a typical Brit we went prepared for cold weather, but did have the common sense to pack summer clothes - just in case, and thank goodness we did.  The fleeces and long-sleeved tops returned home unworn and leaving them at home would have made our luggage so much lighter.  Our apartment was in Valletta, seconds from the harbour and the views were amazing.  I haven't had a chance to make a card for Handmade Monday, but thought I would post some of the pics I took in Malta.  

The view from the balcony

Our apartment is in the centre of this picture, on the second floor

Parking in the town of Valletta is almost impossible, and definitely impossibly expensive.  The best way to get into town is to walk - from our apartment it was uphill all the way, about 60 steps - much better on the way down.  However, the picture above shows another road into Valletta and climbing this one was definitely not on my list of 'must do's.

 We took a harbour cruise whilst away, and access to the leaving point was by ferry.  On the return ferry I was able to take this shot of the sunset.

Lots of gorgeous boats and yachts are moored in the Grand Harbour of Valletta - we saw one that had three stories!

Another view of boats, but slightly smaller ones this time.

As you know Malta was awarded the George Cross in recognition of the Maltese peoples bravery.  The above picture is of the plaque outside of Valletta's 'Buckingham Palace'.

We haven't been to Malta for many, many years and although so much has changed one thing has remained the same: the lovely people.  They are friendly, helpful and go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome.  We had a great week, so many beautiful buildings in Malta and I took a lot of photographs which I am planning to use in my card-making.

Have a great week everyone and don't forget to check out the other blogs on Handmade Monday   

Jill

WEDNESDAY FUN

Hi everyone

I have been 'resting' this week, well not really, but have not done much crafting with the exception of working on a special project.  Planning and thinking about the crafting I need to do, but it didn't get much further than that.  Richard has been on leave this week so we have decided to take some time out as the next couple of months will be hectic, both work-wise and social-wise.  One needs to get one's strength up, doesn't one?

The remainder of this month is very busy for me as I have lots of events that I am taking part in.  Don't forget to check out my Where Am I section to be sure you have up-to-date details of where Christmas Pie Crafts will be.

This is a very brief mid-week post but I do want to thank everyone who commented on my Handmade Monday post this week, but a particular thank you to those fellow-crafters who commented on the previous week's one.  My mention of a 'difficult' customer brought forth lots of supportive comments - takes the sting out of the experience.

Enjoy the rest of the week everyone - I will be posting on Sunday/Handmade Monday

Jill

KEEPING UP OR CATCHING UP?

Hi everyone

I really don't think I am keeping up with everything I need to do and certainly not catching up.  It is a very busy time of year for everyone and there is always that nagging thought at the back of your mind saying: 'what is it I have forgotten to do?'  No matter how many techniques there are for ensuring you remember things, they don't seem to work for me.  I wonder if I should invest in a hand tape-recorder?  I had one many years ago, rarely used it and it got lost along the way.  I may have to ask Father Christmas for one - that is of course if I remember!

A very busy week - lots accomplished but the mental To-Do list still seems full.  I completed a short notice birthday card yesterday and that is my this week's  Handmade Monday make:

The card is for a primrose-loving person and I used a 'washed' background of primroses, and then mounted a photograph onto green card, which was then placed onto white card.  A happy birthday tag was mounted on green, then white card and fixed to the right of the picture.  I also made a complimenting post-it note wallet to go with the card.

No events this coming week - phew!  However, plenty coming up for the remainder of November, so have to crack of with the card-making.

A short post today.  Have a great week everyone and don't forget to visit the other blogs taking part in Handmade Monday - you will see some beautiful handmade items, great tutorials and really interesting posts.  I am out of email contact for most of this week, but will try to keep up to date with blog visiting and posting.

Jill

LATE WEDNESDAY, EARLY THURSDAY POST

Hi everyone

Yet another week that is disappearing so fast and I don't seem to be able to keep up with everything.  I don't make lists of To-Do's, although I know I should - I just can't face writing (and re-visiting because I haven't completed any) the million and one things I have to do.  Prefer the old ignorance is bliss attitude.

No pics of card makes today - it's been a hectic week and I haven't really made a card that I want to showcase.  I have been busy making stock and planning what to do once the crazy Christmas events seasons is finished - my last event is at the end of November and I can then settle down to sorting out and planning for my Christmas.  I will probably be so shattered by then that come Christmas morning I will be wondering why Father Christmas hasn't delivered Christmas lunch - or perhaps discovering he had and Jazz and Daisy had eaten it!  Or perhaps I gave him the wrong list of things I wanted this year???

I had a lovely surprise this week from Karen Clark of Beads by Design.  To celebrate Karen's 300th blog post she had a giveaway - the winner will receive some of Karen's gorgeous goodies from her Christmas shop.  I am really pleased to have won this and you can read my post and the other contributor's on Karen's Christmas Creative Blogspot.  Thank you Karen, a lovely surprise and I am really looking forward to receiving my goodies.  Do have a look at Karen's website - she designs and creates the most beautiful tiaras, jewellery and wedding accessories.

I took part in the first Shopping & Pamper Evening at Holly Lodge School in Ash Vale yesterday.  Despite the miserable wet weather it was very well attended, with lots of different things for sale.  Well done Holly Lodge PTA, it was a very good event and really well organised.

I don't have any events until 14 November, so time to make stock and have a little break me thinks.  Wishful thinking really.

Enjoy the rest of the week everyone

Jill

END OF SUMMER

Hi everyone

The clocks have gone back, we have gained some daylight in the morning, but lost it in the evening.  I don't know about you, but I don't mind getting up in the dark, as I much prefer lighter evenings if I had the choice.  Winters are long enough as it is, and getting dark at 4.00 pm is not much fun.  But, the good news is that Christmas is on its way and it is a lovely time of year.

It's Handmade Monday - please someone tell me where the time goes, because it only seems a day or two since the last one.  Not that I mind, as it is a great opportunity to visit some fantastic blogs.  I hope you visited the ones last week that gave tutorials on making a fabric wreath and gift bags - both really lovely and on my list of things to-do.

My 'make' this week is an A4 Christmas card.  I used the Nitwit Village decoupage for this, but added my own touch.  I ripped around the edge of a blue A4 piece of card to resemble sky and added some fluffy-looking clouds to the scene - these were also torn from white card.  I like making big cards because there is a lot more space to be creative.

I really enjoyed the event in Godalming yesterday.  I met up with some crafters from previous events, which was good as well as one from the event Caroline and I organised in the Normandy Village Hall.  She was very disappointed to hear that we did not have any others planned as she felt there was definitely a need for craft-only events in this area.  Yesterday's event was very well attended and lots of lovely things were on sale.  I was very pleased with my sales, and also very embarrassed when 2 people said 'do you have a website?'.  Very red-faced I had to say its on its way.  Well done Loretta, a very well organised event and I am looking forward to your next one.

It is interesting to observe people's views of handmade items.  At yesterday's event I had a basket of birthday and thank you cards at £1.50 each - I was amazed when one 'potential' customer asked the price and when I advised her £1.50, she put them back in the basket and moved off without saying anything.  Isn't it strange how people will pay £2, £3 or more in a supermarket for a mass-produced, non-personalised card without a second thought, but with a one-off handmade card they balk at the price?  Sometimes being a crafter can be a little disheartening, but thank goodness the majority of people respect the hard work that goes into our craft.

I am off to put my feet up and plan for this week's event - I had kidded myself that I wouldn't make any stock as I have loads.  The problem is there are always ideas buzzing around in my head for new cards, so just have to get on with the card-making and make the ideas a reality.

Don't forget to come along to the event I am at this week if you are in the Guildford area:  2 November, 7.00 pm - 9.30 pm, The Holly Lodge Christmas Shopping & Pamper Evening, Stratford Road, Ash Vale, Surrey, GU12 5PX.

Hope you a great week - don't forget co check out the other Handmade Monday crafters and I will be back on Thursday with my usual mid-week post.

Jill

58 DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS

Hi everyone

How frightening is that!  Only 58 days to go until we sit down to turkey, mince pies, Christmas pudding!  Oooh, I feel full up already.  My plans this year included making a Christmas cake as well as a Christmas pudding.  I will let you know when (and if) the 'thought plans' make it into reality.

A fairly busy week so far.  I have been working on an inexpensive card range specifically for my events.  They are packs of 5 cards with the same picture on each one and a seasonal greeting inside.  They will be on sale at my event on Saturday in Godalming - please have a look at the Where am I section on my blog for full details.  The event is based in a busy area of Godalming, just opposite a supermarket.  It has been very well advertised, so I am hopeful of lots of card-buying visitors.  If you live in this area, please do come along as there are lots of love goodies for sale at the event and you can find out about them on the event's Facebook page Godalming Independent Christmas Market.

This is my Thursday Blog-Hop post, and don't forget to check out the other crafters blogs and see the lovely things everyone has been creating.

Met up with friends on Tuesday evening for a meal in Guildford, which was good (friends' company and the meal that is).  I might also be starting to move forward with my website, thanks to one of the friends I was with - so watch this space.  As time goes by with my business I realise how crazy it is not to have a website - even if I don't plan to sell from it (note sure about this yet) it is vital to have a window on the web.

Back to card-making as Saturday's event is not the only one on the horizon.  I will be back with my Sunday/Monday post and if possible I will have some pics of the Godalming event.

I hope you enjoy the rest of this week

Jill

IT'S THAT TIME AGAIN: THE SUNDAY/MONDAY POST

Hi everyone

Sunshine again - doesn't it make you feel so much better, more cheerful and keen to get out into the garden and dig things up, plant them and probably cut the grass again.  Funny how grass and weeds manage to keep growing at this time of year, whereas most flowers give up.

The Popular Crafts magazine was published this week and my blog has been featured.  How exciting is that?  It is such fun to read information about my blog and I feel really proud to be 'in print'.  Thank you PC.

It's Handmade Monday again and don't forget to check out the other Craft Blogs taking part - among the gorgeous makes this week I am sure there will be some lovely Christmas goodies.  My craft creation for this week is a new baby card.   A friend requested one last week but said 'hang on if possible, as the parents don't know whether it is a boy or a girl'.  It's a boy and he arrived last night - his name is Jack, so welcome to the world Jack.

The card is made up of one plain card with blue card fixed to it; this has been trimmed slightly to leave a white border.  On top of this I placed blue check paper and then added a decoupaged baby boy.  At the bottom is a greetings label and underneath this is a row of rocking horses.  Inside I added a longer greeting and edged the page with more rocking horses.

Shortly after writing the above I received a call from a friend who is also a friend of the new parents.  'Have you got a baby boy card in stock?'  Unfortunately, no but as it wasn't needed until today, I was able to make another one, so a very early start this morning saw me creating, sticking, cutting and embellishing.  Here is baby boy card number 2.

Created in a similar way to the first card: layers, decoupage, greetings, plus an insert with parents and baby's name included.

Yet again, this made me realise that I need to keep in stock a variety of cards, rather than the 'limited' lines I have.  Decision time - do I keep on making Christmas cards and begin a range of new baby, with sympathy, etc, etc cards.

Last week seemed very busy and have been having a 'little' rest over the weekend.  I spent Friday with my sister and we went shopping in London, and had a good day together.  For the first time for ages I didn't buy any craft-related things - although I did look.  Amazing for late October, but we had lunch outside - believe it or not we had to wait for a table.  I bought myself some gorgeous blue nail-varnish - not really for my fingernails, but will certainly look good on my toes.  I hate not having my toenails painted - winter and summer, always varnished.

Another busy week - an event next Saturday that I am hoping will go well.  The venue is opposite a very popular supermarket, so fingers crossed.  Need to get card-making in a big way this week and include some off those not always stocked cards.

Have a great week everyone

I will be back with my Wednesday/Thursday post.

Jill