Lavinia Stamps Witch and Cat Stamp and Spin card

A Sizzix Stamp & Spin session, using Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink, with a couple of Lavinia witches (Anwen & Faba) and their cats (Mini Rune & Mini Jinx).

I've also used the Lavinia "Bramble" stamp on the corners and the Lavinia "Ambiance" stencil with Ranger Archival inks in the background.

I've added touches of Posca Pens, white gel pen and a gold shimmer pen along with a 2B pencil and a black fine liner pen.

***The more I look at this, the more I think it could be made into some kind of spinning game if the witches and cats were numbered... food for thought!

Lavinia Stamps Pipspell Christmas Tag on kraft

When you can't sleep.... craft!

This is a middle of the night make, using kraft card as the base for this tag, stamping Lavinia Stamps in Versafine Clair. Portobello brown for Pipspell the mouse and the Everdusk Tree. Nocturne for the black bird, which is part of the :"Birds" stamp set and Morning Mist for the Tiptoe Prints verse.

I've coloured using Van Coch Pastel Pencils and white and Ultramarine Blue Pan Pastels, with splatters of white Posca Pen.

Lavinia Stamps Glimmer Orbs Christmas Card

I've had a play with two of the new Lavinia "Faelight Chronicles" collection to make this card.

For the background I used three shades of blue ink, using the lighter in the middle and getting darker towards the edges. The colours of Ranger Archival Inks I used are: Sky Blue, Bluebird and Cobalt

I have used Versafine Clair "Twilight" to stamp the "Witch Hazel" branches from an earlier release and one of the "Winter Foliage" stamps from the Faelight release along with the sentiment from the Lavinia "Christmas Blessings" stamp set.

I've used Versafine Clair "Charming Pink" to stamp the baubles from the Lavinia "Glimmer Orbs" adding touches of gold gel pen too.

Finally, adding snow to the branches and splattering white paint from a paint brush to replicate snowfall.

Lavinia Stamps "Thistlewhisk" Get Well Card

I've fashioned a "Get Well Card" using one of the new stamps from the Lavinia Stamps "Faelight Chronicles" release.

I stamped the Lavinia "Thistlewhisk" mouse using Versafine Clair "Sand Dune" ink.  Then I used "Sky Blue" Archival Ink through the Lavinia Stamps "Waffle Stencil", applying very light pressure to the blending brush as I only wanted a suggestion of the pattern.

Using a 2B pencil I drew the clouds, raindrops and the landscape, adding shading and a touch of colour using colouring pencils and a white gel pen.

I coloured the mouse using Derwent Inktense pencils, applie with a paint brush.  I added some flower detail to the grass area using dots of red and yellow Posca Pens.

Finally, using Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink, I stamped the Papertrey Ink sentiment saying "So sorry you're under the weather".

52 Week Mini Art Card / Tag Challenge 2025 - Week 43

The Crafting Niche 52 Week Mini Art Card/Tag Challenge 2025:

This is a weekly challenge. I provide you with a prompt/theme each Sunday morning through out the year.  The challenge is very relaxed.  You can do as much or as little as you like.  You can create cards, tags, Artist Trading Cards (ATC's) or index cards, the choice is yours. You just go with what ever is in your head at the time.  You can stamp, get inky, use patterned papers, texture, embellish it is all down to you.

There is a dedicated private Facebook Group, with a lovely bunch of people who are already sharing their makes from previous challenges.  You can find the group by clicking this link.  I'd love you to join in.

The prompt for Week 43 "Spooktacular"

For the base of this tag I sprayed three shades of Dylusion ink sprays on to a piece of white card.  The colours I used are Lemon Zest, Squeezed Orange and Bubblegum Pink.

I used Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink through two Funky Fossil stencils. The bats, witch and broomstick are on the stencil called "Witching Hour".  The tombstone shapes are part of the "Gothic Graveyard" stencil.  I added some sparkle to the tag using a gold shimmer Gelly Roll pen, finally adding a word sticker saying "on my adventure"!

Lavinia Stamps "Pipspell" Seasons Greetings Card

The new release order from Lavinia Stamps called  "Faelight Chronicles" arrived at my house today, so after adding them to my spreadsheet of Lavinia Stamps and popping them in plastic wallets, it was time for my first play, making this card.

I used one of the Lavinia Moon Masks with "Sky Blue" Archival ink to colour the background.  I stamped "Pipspell" the mouse in second generation stamping using Versafine Clair "Acorn" brown ink.  I used the same ink to stamp the small branches around the edge of the circle, which are part of the new Lavinia "Winter Foliage" stamp set.  I used the fir tree branch from the same stamp set, stamped in Versafine Clair "Rain Forest" green ink, in first and second generation stamping. I then used "Peat Moss" green Archival Ink to go round the top edge of the circle to make it a little more solid looking.

I created the land behind the mouse using a Lavinia "Hill Mask" with two shades of Versafine Clair inks:  Bali Blue and Morning Mist.

I coloured the mouse using Van Goch pastel pencils.  I added some red berries to the foliage and a three dots of "White Opal" Liquid Pearls for the berries of the mistiletoe hanging from the bauble.

Finally, using Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink, I stamped the Seasons Greetings sentiment, which is part of the Lavinia "Christmas Greetings" stamp set.

Lavinia Stamps Hummingbird Card

 

I was up early so headed to the craft room for a play, making this card.

I started by using the Lavinia Stamps arch stencil, which is part of their "Sticker Stencil 5" set, using two shades of Ranger Archival inks.  Chrome Yellow for the base then Orange Blossom through the Lavinia Stamps "Cryptic Stencil".

I masked the arch off then around the edge used "Orange Blossom" and "Sky Blue" Ranger Archival Ink through the Lavinia Stamps "Ambiance" stencil.  I shaded the edges of the card using "Twilight" Versafine Clair Ink.

Using Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink, I stamped the "Mystic Swirls" to oposite corners of the arch.  Within the arch, I stamped the Lavinia "Words of Spring" verse.

Next, using Versafine Clair "Twilight" dark blue ink, I stamped the small Lavinia Hummingbird.  I then stamped it again on a piece of white card, fussy cutting the second stamped image and sticking into position over the first stamped bird.

Finally, I added some spots of black Posca Pen and then added a touch of gold shimmer to the wings of the bird using "A wink of stella".

Stampscapes Cottage in the moonlight card

This evening I've been playing with the Stampscape polymer stamps licenced to Sweet Poppy Stencils.

I've used the Stampscapes "Cottage lge", "Pines and rocks sml" and the "Cloud and Crescent Moon medium" within the Sweet Poppy "Circle Aperture Stencil SPS125C" stencil. Stamping in Versafine Clair inks: Twilight, Nocturne and Morning Mist.

I've used a couple of Distress Oxide inks too. I used Antique Linen to colour the moon and Lost Shadow to colour the cottage. For the snow, I've used Dr Ph.Martin's bleed proof white paint.

Sweet Poppy Stencils "Mouse of wheat" card

Another Sweet Poppy Stencils make from me today, this time using their new "Mouse on wheat" stamp.

I used white Pan Pastel for the central circle on grey card.  Then stamped the "Mouse on wheat" using Verafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink,  I used the same ink to stamp the "Happy Birthday" which is part of the Sweet Poppy "A6 Hugs and Kisses" stamp set.

I coloured the mouse and white using pastel pencils, then used "White Opal" Liquid Pearls to create a beaded edge to the circle.

Lavinia Stamps "Moss Flowers" Diolch Card

For this card, I used two shades of Archival Inks (Prickly Pear and Paradise Teal), through the Lavinia Stamps "Splendor" stencil. I used the Lavinia "Moon Mask" with Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink to lightly shade the edge of the circle.

I used Versafine Clair "Twilight" dark blue ink to stamp the Lavinia Stamps "Moss Flowers" colouring two of them using Distress Oxide Ink, using "Tumbled Glass" and "Mermaid Lagoon" shades.

I stamped the Lavinia sentiment "Diolch, part of the Lavinia Stamps "Welsh Words" stamp set, using Versafine Clair "Twilight" dark blue ink, adding some dots around the flowers using a blue Posca Pen, finally adding some dots of "White Opal" Liquid Pearls.

Sweet Poppy Stencils "Feather Aperture Stencil" with Stampscapes Pine Trees

I've had a quick play with the new Sweet Poppy "Feather Aperture Stencil", which I have paired with some Stampscape Stamps.

I started by using some blue, green and mauve coloured Ranger Archival Inks through the Sweet Poppy Stencils "Feaather Aperture Stencil.

I used two of the Stampscapes polymer" stamps.  (The polymer stamps are licenced to Sweet Poppy Stencils), stamping the trees in "Fallen Leaves" Versafine Clair brown ink.  I stamped the Stampscapes Moon in Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink.  I used Dr. Ph. Martin's white bleed proof paint to paint snow on the trees and for the landscape, then splattered some across the feather image to replicate snow.

At this stage, I felt the feather looked a bit washed out, so decided to fussy cut the shape and stick on to some dark blue card, which highlights the feather beautifully.

Tracy Evans Boutique Designs "Garden Elements" Card

 

I've had a play with Tracy Evans Boutique Designs goodies to make this card.

Starting with a piece of white card, I stamped the large flower petals from the Tracy Evans "Garden Elements TE30" stamp set in "Bali Blue" Versafine Clair Ink.  I then used the smaller petals from the same set and stamped them in Versaifne Clair "Blue Belle" ink.

I applied Versafine Clair "Twilight" dark blue ink through the Tracy Evans "Snippet Stencil Tweet - SS1" using less ink on the breast area.  I then used the same ink to stamp the two wrens, which are also from the Tracy Evans "Garden Elements" stamp set, also in Versafine Clair "Twilight" dark blue ink, but stamping them three times to get a really dark shade.

Next, I used Pastel Pencils on the breasts of the birds and a white gel pen to outline the bird shapes..  I grounded the birds using the torn edge of a piece of copy paper with Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink.

On the dark blue flowers, I added a lovely gold shimmer using "A wink of stella".  I then filled the white areas with polka dots using a gold gel pen. Finally adding flowers to the ground using dots of pink and white Posca Pen and adding some dots of "Mermaid" green Liquid Pearls to the middle of the flowers.

52 Week Mini Art Card / Tag Challenge 2025 - Week 42

The Crafting Niche 52 Week Mini Art Card/Tag Challenge 2025:

This is a weekly challenge. I provide you with a prompt/theme each Sunday morning through out the year.  The challenge is very relaxed.  You can do as much or as little as you like.  You can create cards, tags, Artist Trading Cards (ATC's) or index cards, the choice is yours. You just go with what ever is in your head at the time.  You can stamp, get inky, use patterned papers, texture, embellish it is all down to you.

There is a dedicated private Facebook Group, with a lovely bunch of people who are already sharing their makes from previous challenges.  You can find the group by clicking this link.  I'd love you to join in.

The prompt for Week 42 "Stripes"

I started with a white tag and roughly laid down two colours of Distress Oxide ink with a blending brush.  The colours I used were "Squeezed Lemonade" and "Abandoned Coral. Once the surface was covered, I used a fan shaped brush with water on to splatter droplets across the surface of the tag.  I then blotted with a piece kitchen roll and then ran the heat gun over the surface to be sure it was fully dry.

I then used more "Abandoned Coral" Distress Oxide ink with the Tim Holtz / Stampers Anonymous THS004 String Stencil and THMM101 a dotty stencil.  Next, I added some yellow stars using the "Squeezed Lemonade" Distress Oxide Ink with the Tim Holtz / Stampers Anonymous "Sparkle" layering stencil.

I used Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink to stamp the pram/stroller, which is part of the Tim Holtz / Stampers Anonymous "Mini Blueprints CMS231" stamp set.  I stamped it again on an off cut of card, fussy cut the main body of the pram and stuck on to the tag, I felt this broke the colour up.  

Finally, I used a red Posca Pen to colour in the heart on the pram and then stamped the "Hello" and "XOXO", both these are part of the Tim Holtz / Stampers Anonymous "Crazy Bird" clear Stamp set

Stampscapes Polymer "Snowy Church" Christmas Card

I have been stalking Postie, waiting for my overdue delivery of the new polymer "Stampscapes" release making this Christmas card.

I started by using two shades of green Ranger Archival Inks throught the SPS-125T Triangle Aperture Stencil.

I then used three shades of Versafine Clair inks for the stamping, using Spruce, Morning Mist and Nocturne colours to stamp the three polymer Stampscapes stamps which are licenced to Sweet Poppy Stencils.  The stamps I used are Snowy Tree Medium, Snowy Church Medium and Snow People.

I used a few touches of Distress Oxide ink to colour the snowman before using Dr Ph. Martin's white bleed proof ink to splatter over the surface and to paint the snow on the branches of the trees.

Tim Holtz Idea-ology Collage

While in America last week, I was able to pop in to Hobby Lobby and pick up a few crafting bits and pieces.  I of course headed to the Tim Holtz area, which wasn't huge, but I did get five packs of Idea-ology goodies, so decided to have a play with them.

I used a piece of kraft card for the base, using three Tim Holtz / Stampers Anonymous stencils with Versafine Clair inks. The stencils and inks I paired are: Bouquet Layering Stencil (THS143) with Rain Forest green ink.  String stencil (THS004) with Morning Mist grey ink and THMM101 with Nocturne black ink.

I used some patterned paper and matching card from my stash, along with a Tim Holtz "Layered Frame" and a couple of pieces from the "Layers" set with a male paperdoll.  I also used some word stickers from the Tim Holtz "Chit Chat" set.  

I added splatters of gold and white paint across the surface, finally adding three old buttons from my button jar.

Lavinia Stamps "Shadow Bloom" hope card

 

I made this card for a friend who is quite poorly at present. Starting with the Lavinia Stamps "Shadow Bloom" stamp, I stamped the image using Versafine Clair "Medieval Blue" ink.  I then coated the stamped image in Wow! Clear Embossing Powder and heat set.

I used "Sky Blue" Ranger Archival Ink through the Lavinia Stamps "Waffle Stencil" around the stamped image, fading the colour out towards the top and bottom.

Using Versafine Clair "Medieval Blue" ink again, I added some foliage to the flower using one of the leaves from the Lavinia "Vine Set".  I used the same ink to stamp the word "Hope" which is part of the Lavinia "Blessings" word set.

Next, I used a paint brush to colour the flowers using "Spun Sugar" Distress Oxide Inks.  I added dots of yellow Posca Pen to the middle of the flowers, finally adding some dots of "White Opal" Liquid Pearls to the stencillled area.

Lavinia Stamps Castle in the arch card

I have used the Lavinia Stamps "Red Brick Stencil" and their "Sticker Stencil set 5" for the arch, with Ranger Archival Inks (Sky blue, Shadow Grey, Fern Green, Leaf Green, Acorn and Tea Rose).

I've used assorted Versafine Clair inks (Acorn, Fallen Leaves, Morning Mist, Shady Lane and Rain Forest) for the stamping of the Lavinia Stamps Cherry Blossom, Silhouette Castle, Tree Scene and Heartfelt Verse sentiment.  Finsihing with touches of 2B pencil, Posca Pens and Fine Liner pen.

Lavinia Stamps "Seasons Greetings" Christmas Card

I had a small window to play in the craft room last night, making this Christmas card.

I used the Lavinia Stamps "Block Print" stencil with two shades of Ranger Archival Inks (Library Green and Paradise Teal).  I used Fern Green and Shadow Grey Archival Ink with the Lavinia "Moon Mask" to make the moon in the background.

I used Versafine Clair "Twilight" dark blue ink to stamp the following Lavinia Stamps:  Small Pine Trees, Small Fairy Fir Tree, Winter Magic Verse and a sentiment from the Christmas Greetings Stamp set.

I splattered white paint over the surface to replicate snow, using the same paint with a brush to create the landscape.  Once dry, I added a few touches of "Crystal" stickles for a little sparkle.

Lavinia Stamps "Small Robins" at Christmas

I apologise for my absence.  I've been away on holiday to America to see the colours of the leaves in "New England in the fall".  I've had a fabulous time but I am equally glad to be home to see Rosie our dog and to do some crafting.

For this card, I used the new Lavinia Stamps "Snowflakes" stencil with blue and grey Archival ink left on my blending brushes from previous projects.

I have used the Lavina "Circle Mask" for the central stamped area, sying blue ink round the edge of the circle.  I then used Versafine Clair "Warm Breeze" ink to stamp the Lavinia "Mystic Swirls" on the right hand side of the circle.

I used the fence post from the Lavinia "Pheasant" stamp with Versafine Clair "Portobello" brown ink, I used the same ink to stamp the two robins which are part of the Lavinia "Small Robins" stamp set.

I used a white Signo Pen and some Dr Ph. Martin's white bleed proof ink on a very thin paint brush to create the look of snow on the fence and ground.  I added colour to the robins using Derwent Inktense pencils, finally adding a touch of "Crystal" Stickles to my fingertip and smudging it on the snow areas for a little bit of sparkle, (sadly this doesn't really show up on the photo).

Finally, using Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink, I stamped the sentiment, which is part of the Lavinia "Christmas Greetings" stamp set, adding some touches of "White Opal" Liquid Pearls round the edge of the circle.

52 Week Mini Art Card/Tag Challenge 2025 - Week 41

The Crafting Niche 52 Week Mini Art Card/Tag Challenge 2025:

This is a weekly challenge. I provide you with a prompt/theme each Sunday morning through out the year.  The challenge is very relaxed.  You can do as much or as little as you like.  You can create cards, tags, Artist Trading Cards (ATC's) or index cards, the choice is yours. You just go with what ever is in your head at the time.  You can stamp, get inky, use patterned papers, texture, embellish it is all down to you.

There is a dedicated private Facebook Group, with a lovely bunch of people who are already sharing their makes from previous challenges.  You can find the group by clicking this link.  I'd love you to join in.

The prompt for Week 41 "Teens"

For my Week 41 "Teens Tag" i've opted for a skate board dude.  Starting with a white tag and three shades of Distress Oxide Inks. Using Stormy Sky at the top, Chipped Sapphire in the middle and Unchartered Mariner on the lower third.  I then used a fan shaped paint brush, dipped in water to splatter water droplets over the surface of the tag, blotting it with kitchen paper to take up the excess then running the heat gun over the surface.  Once dry, I edged the tag in "Prize Ribbon" Distress Oxide Ink.

I moved on to stamping.  I had three sets of Sarah Davis "Just for men" stamp sets.  From the "Urban Graffiti set" I stamped the splatters, stars and circles using three shades of Versafine Clair Inks:  Warm Breeze, Paradise and Medieval Blue.

I used Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink to stamp the skateboard figure, which is part of the "Street Wise" stamp set and the sentimetn which is part of the "Rock Star" stamp set.  

I inked the edges of the tag using Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink and then added splatters of pink and white Posca Pen.  I used a white gel pen to outline the skate boarding figure, adding a "Wink of Stella" to the middle of the stars too.

52 Week Mini Art Card / Tag Challenge 2025 - Week 40

The Crafting Niche 52 Week Mini Art Card/Tag Challenge 2025:

This is a weekly challenge. I provide you with a prompt/theme each Sunday morning through out the year.  The challenge is very relaxed.  You can do as much or as little as you like.  You can create cards, tags, Artist Trading Cards (ATC's) or index cards, the choice is yours. You just go with what ever is in your head at the time.  You can stamp, get inky, use patterned papers, texture, embellish it is all down to you.

There is a dedicated private Facebook Group, with a lovely bunch of people who are already sharing their makes from previous challenges.  You can find the group by clicking this link.  I'd love you to join in.

The prompt for Week 40 "Dogs"

I covered a white tag with "Wilted Violet" Distress Oxide Ink and then lay the Tim Holtz / Stampers Anonymous "Shifter Layering Stencil - THS127" over the tag and applied "Villainous Potion" Distress Oxide Ink through the stencil.

Next, I lay the Tim Holtz / Stampers Anonymous "Sparkle Layering Stencil" over the tag and applied white texture paste through the stencil.  The texture paste absorbed some of the background colour making the stars a lovely lilac colour.

On a plain white piece of card, I stamped the dog and bowl, both are part of the Tim Holtz / Stampers Anonymous "Crazy Dogs - CMS271" stamp set using Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink.  I then coloured them using Derwent Inktense pencils applied with a paint brush, fussy cutting them and sticking them on to the tag.

I used "Platinum Pearl" Liquids to dot some of the middle of the stars.

Visible Image `'Calm over chaos" Card

I used Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink to stamp the female figure which is part of the Visible Image stamp set called "Calm over chaos".

In the background, I used "Pink Peony" Ranger Archival ink through the Visible Image stencil called "Frosty".

I used Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink to stamp the multi circles, which are part of the Visible Image stamp set called "Faerie Magic". Finally adding dots to the circles using an "Aqua Green" Posca Pen.

Lavinia Stamps "Mystic Swirl" Vine Card using Sizzix Stamp and Spin Tool

About a year ago, I bought the Sizzix Stamp and Spin tool, however, because we were moving house, it got packed away and has not been used till today.  It was winking at me from the shelf.  So as I didn't have a project on my desk, I decided today was the day to try the tool out.

I was a little nervous at first, but soon got the hang of it, thanks to You Tube.  I couldn't grasp the instructions that came with the set - I guess now I'm getting older a visual demonstration is easier for me to grasp!

I used two shades of Versafine Clair inks.  I used Avocado green for the foliage and Lilac Bloom for the flowers and sentiment.  The Lavinia Stamps I used are Mystic Swirl, Vine Set, Mini Flutter and Mini Dots.

The central sentiment is by Hobby Art Stamps and is part of their "Greetings for friends - CS158D" stamp set.  I also used a yellow Posca Pen and a white gel pen for extra detail.

52 Week Mini Art Card / Tag Challenge 2025 - Week 39

The Crafting Niche 52 Week Mini Art Card/Tag Challenge 2025:

This is a weekly challenge. I provide you with a prompt/theme each Sunday morning through out the year.  The challenge is very relaxed.  You can do as much or as little as you like.  You can create cards, tags, Artist Trading Cards (ATC's) or index cards, the choice is yours. You just go with what ever is in your head at the time.  You can stamp, get inky, use patterned papers, texture, embellish it is all down to you.

There is a dedicated private Facebook Group, with a lovely bunch of people who are already sharing their makes from previous challenges.  You can find the group by clicking this link.  I'd love you to join in.

The prompt for Week 39 "Buttons, Buckles and Sliders"

For my Week 39 Tag, I used white texture paste through the Tim Holtz / Stampers Anonymous THS032 - Flourish Layering Stencil and set aside to dry.

I had some embellishments left over from a wedding project in my stash so used a coule of gem set and pearl buttons and a gem set ribbon slider. Typing and printing a sentiment saying "To have and tol hold" on the computer, finally adding some sticky flat back pearls to some of the flourishes.

Sweet Poppy Stencils "Duo Birds" Anniversary Card

This morning i've played with a couple of Sweet Poppy Stencils and a Stampscapes stamp to create this card.

I started by using Verasfine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink to multi stamp the Stampscapes "Curvy Branch" along the bottom of the card and part way up the sides.

I then used "Sky Blue" Archival Ink through the Sweet Poppy "Symphony Backplate Stencil", using the remaining ink on the blending brush around the edges of the card.

Next, I used "Poppy" Archival Ink through the Sweet Poppy "Duo Birds Stencil", but instead of having them one on top of the other, decided to have them looking at each other.  

I used Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink to stamp the "Have a great day" sentiment, which is part of the Sweet Poppy "Hugs & Kisses" stamp set. Finally adding some gold dots to the branches, round the edge of the birds and the card itself with a gel pen.

Stampscaepes "Flower fields and Windmill" Card

 

I decided to play with my Stampscape stamps again, making this card. I purchased my polymer Stampscape Stamps from Sweet Poppy Stencils, who are licenced to sell them with the approval of Stampscapes.  Here's the link to the stamps on their site.

I started by creating a coloured base.  I used Distress Oxide Inks, applied loosely with a paint brush, to colour the base in shades of green ( Old Paper, Peeled Paint and Mowed Lawn) and the sky in shades of blues and greys (Tumbled Glass, Weathered Wood and Speckled Egg).

Using Versafine Clair "Shady Lane" green ink, I stamped the Stampscapes "Flower Field".  I then used Versafine Clair "Shady Lane" grey ink to stamp the "Medium windmill".

I coloured the scene using Derwent Inktense pencils and a 2B pencil

Funky Fossil Designs "Folk Garden" Bird Notelet

I made this little notelet by stamping the bird tile stamp, which is part of the Funky Fossil Designs "Folk Garden" stamp set.  I stamped in Versafine Clair "Shady Lane", which is a mid green coloured ink.  I then coated the stamped image with Wow! Clear Embossing Powder and then heat set.

I trimmed the stamped image so there was a white border, mounted it on to a piece of kraft card then on to a plain white card.

Stampscapes "Snowy Covered Bridge".

I've had another play with my new polymer "Stampscape" stamps I ordered from Sweet Poppy Stencils, this time going for a "white out" style Christmas card.

I used Versafine Clair "Twilight" ink to stamp the Stampscapes "Snowy Covered Bridge", then I masked the stamped image off and stamped the Stampscapes "Pine Row" and the flying birds from the "Critter Set 8" stamp set.

I used Distress Oxide Inks, applied with a paint brush to colour the image.  The shades of ink I used are:  Antique Linen, Tumbled Glass, Lost Shadow and Weathered Wood.

I used a white gel pen to soften some of the fence posts and to add snow to the trees.  I then used a fan shaped paint brush to splatter white paint, I used Dr. Ph. Marin's bleed proof white paint for this.  It replicates a blizzard perfectly.

Creative Expressions / Andy Skinner "Let Your Dreams Take Flight"

I recently saw Andy Skinner (Cosmic Shimmer) demo a technique with paint running from a stamped image, so thought I would try it out myself.

I found an off cut of white card, a bit grubby in places and also had a little area lifting on the surface, but for my experiment, I decided it would be fine.

Using my Misti stamping platform, I stamped the Andy Skinner stamp called "Let your dreams take flight", using "Della Blue" Elements Inks.  I then spritzed the surface of the card and the ink ran.

I used my heat gun to dry the surface of the stamp and then inked up the stamp using Versafine Clair "Twilight" dark blue ink.  This then highlights the details on the stamped image but leaving the lovely shadow of the running paint.

I liked it so much I decided to mount it on a piece of darker card, regardless of the grubby areas on the edges of the card. I'd definitely try this technique again.

Lavinia Stamps "Hill House" Halloween Card

Another Lavinia Stamps make using one of the new "Autumn Mist" stencils, this time with two Element Inks (Greensleeves and Pixie Green).  I have also used "Sky Blue" Archival Ink through the older Lavinia "Charming" stencil.

I've used Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink to stamp the Lavinia "Hill House", the "Bat" and the sentiment of "Full Moon" which is part of the "Nightfall" stamp set.

Lavinia Stamps Bella and the moon.

I've opted to make a very clean and simple card using one of the new Lavinia Stamps "Autumn Mist" stencils.  I've used three shades of Ranger Archival Inks (Paradise Teal, Manganese Blue and Cobalt) shades of ink.

I've used three stamps.  I used the Lavinia "Star Cluster with Versafine Clair "Blue Belle" ink. I have then used Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink to stamp "Bella" the fairy and the sentiment, which is part of a Lavinia word set of stamps called "Nightfall".

I have added touches of white gel pen to the drips and a "Wink of Stella" to the wings to give a lovely shimmer.

Lavinia Stamps "Aurora" on a leaf mask background card

 

For this card, I've used the Lavinia Stamps "Tall Leaf Mask" with "Prickly Pear" and "Sky Blue" Ranger Archival Ink.

I've stamped "Aurora" the fairy with Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink.  Adding a "Wink of Stella" to her wings to give a pretty gold shimmer to them.

I used Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink to stamp the "Faerie Spells" verse and the "Botanical Blossom Bud" in oposite corners.

Finally, I added a touch of colour to the stamped buds using a Pastel Pencil, then added some dots of "Opal White" Liquid Pearls to the edge of the leaf.

Lavinia Stamps "Small Mideela Dragon" Card

Another play session with Lavinia Stamps, this time mixing a new stencil from the "Autumn Mist" collection with old stamps and stencils.

I used "Tea Dye" and "Buttercup" Archival Ink through the Lavinia "Honeycomb" stencil in a masked off cirlce area.

I stamped the Lavinia "Dragon Verse" in Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink and the "Small Mideela Dragon" stamp in Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink.

I then positioned one of the new "Autumn Mist" stencils on it's side and used "Vermillion" red Archival Ink through the stencil.

Using Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink, I stamped the Lavinia "Star Cluster" round the dragon and used one of the Lavinia Mini Star stamps to add stars on the bottom left hand corner.

Lavinia Stamps "Prue and the bats" Card

 

I'm back to using the Lavina Stamps new release, I obviously can't keep away from it!

This card has evolved in the style of my dear friend Eileen Godwin.  I do love how she creates scenes which appear effortless.

I stamped the Lavinia Stamps witch called "Prue" in Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink, grounding her with the Lavinia "Hill Mask" and Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink.  I then used the same ink with a moon mask, but kept the moon mask in position while I used "Tea Rose" and "Sky Blue" Archival Ink through the Lavinia "Charming" stencil.

I returned to Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink stamping the Lavinia "Bats".  Then used Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink to stamp the "Faerie Spells" verse.  Finally adding touches of 2B pencil and white gel pen.

Lavinia Stamps Hares Tag

 

Over on the Lavinia Stamps Facebook page, it is #tagtuesday so I decided to make a tag too.

I started with the hare from the Lavinia Sticker Stencil 4 set, putting it into position and then using "Pink Peony" Ranger Archival ink through the Lavinia "Feather Leaf" stencil.

I then placed the aperture section of the hare sticker stencil on to the tag and used three shades of Distress Oxide Inks to colour in the hare.  The colours I used are Tea Dye, Vintage Photo and Tattered Rose. I then used Versafine Clair "Acorn" brown ink to stamp the text which is the Lavinia"Magic Surrounds" stamp.

I used Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink with the Lavinia "Hill" and "Moon" mask.  I then stamped "Lupin" the hare in Versafine Clair "Pinecone" dark brown ink.  Inked the edges of the tag with "Tea Dye" Distress Oxide Ink and then added some grass with a 2B pencil, some flowers with Posca Pens and finally some white highlights using a gel pen.

Lavinia Stamps "Grandfairy Clock" aka The Halloween Clock

Another card using one of the new Lavinia Stamps "Coven of Curitosities" release.

For the background of this card, I multi stamped the "Fairy Barnacle" stamp in Versafine Clair "Verdant" green ink.

I used Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink to stamp the following Lavinia Stamps:  Grandfairy Clock, Bats, Penelope and one of the Three Woodland Mice stamps.

I added touches of gold and white gel pen and a "Wink of Stella" to the face of the clock.

Stampscapes "Rocky Waterside" Card

I recently received an order of polymer Stampscapes Stamps from Sweet Poppy Stencils, so today I've had a quick play making this card.

I've stamped three Stampscapes polymer stamps (Rocky Waterside left, Critter Set 6 and Critter Set 2) using Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink.

Around the stamped area, I have used several shades of Ranger Archival Inks through the Sweet Poppy Stencil called "Harmony Backplate" stencil.  I've then used some a white gel pen and pastel pencils to add colour to the landscape and water areas.

Lavinia Stamps "Luka" in the street light card

 

I tried something a bit different for me today, making this card.

I used a piece of black card, covering the surface with a chalk bag before stamping the Lavinia Stamps "Street Light" and "Luka" the cat in Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink.  I then coated the stamped areas with Wow! Clear Gloss Embossing Powder and heat set.  

You'll notice in the photo above, the black surface of the card has chalky residue, the reason for this is that it helps to stop the embossing powder to stick to areas you don't want it.  The chalk will dust away afterwards.

I then used four shades of Pan Pastels:  Titanium White, Hansa Yellow Tint, Orange and Black to create the light coming from the street light.  I then set the Pan Pastel with a good spray of hair spray before adding some touches of white gel pen and black fine liner pen.

52 Week Mini Art Card / Tag Challenge 2025 - Week 38

The Crafting Niche 52 Week Mini Art Card/Tag Challenge 2025:

This is a weekly challenge. I provide you with a prompt/theme each Sunday morning through out the year.  The challenge is very relaxed.  You can do as much or as little as you like.  You can create cards, tags, Artist Trading Cards (ATC's) or index cards, the choice is yours. You just go with what ever is in your head at the time.  You can stamp, get inky, use patterned papers, texture, embellish it is all down to you.

There is a dedicated private Facebook Group, with a lovely bunch of people who are already sharing their makes from previous challenges.  You can find the group by clicking this link.  I'd love you to join in.

The prompt for Week 38 "Nursery Rhymes"

I decided to go with the "Baa baa black sheep, have you any wool" nursery rhyme, making this tag.

For the base.  I used "Tumbled Glass" and "Bundled Sage" Distress Oxide Inks.  I then lay the Funky Fossil Designs "Knitted Background Stencil" over the top of the tag and applied "Stormy Sky" and "Mowed Lawn" Distress Oxide Ink through the stencil.

Using Versafine Clair "Pinecone" a dark brown ink, I stamped the sheep on to the tag and then also on to a white piece of card.  The stamp that I have used is part of the "Animal Wisdom" stamp set by Penny Black.

I painted the sheep that was on the white card using "Black Soot" and "Spun Sugar" Distress Oxide Ink.  I then fussy cut the sheep and glued over the stamped sheep on the tag. 

I used a Lavinia "Hill Mask" with Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink to create the landscape, adding grass with a 2B pencil and coloured flowers with Posca Pens.

Next, I used "Blueprint Sketch" Distress Oxide Ink to ink around the edges of the tag, to pull the eye to the focal point of the sheep.

Finally, on the computer I typed  "Baa baa black sheep", printed it out and then glued on to the tag.

Lavinia Stamps Purple "Penelope"

On a plain white card, I used "Sky Blue" Ranger Archival Ink throught the Lavinia Stamps "Ornate" stencil.  I then used Versafine Clair "Very Peri" Lilac coloured ink to stamp the "Forest Scene" trees.

I used Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink to ground the trees and also to create the moon using the Lavinia "Moon Mask".

I then stamped "Penelope" and the "Ravens" using Versafine Clair "Fantasia".  I returned to"Vere Peri" ink and multi stamped the "Witching Hour" verse.

Finally, I inked the edges of the card bringing the colour in and over the stamping to give a lilac hue.  Adding touches of white gel pen, 2B pencil and Posca Pen too.

Lavinia Stamps "Fip" and the raven

I've used the leaf from the Lavinia Stamps "Nature & Nurture" sticker stencil for the background of this card with assorted colours of Ranger Archival Inks.

I used Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink to stamp the Lavinia  "Fip" figure, the "Raven" and the "Paint Splatters".

I used a gold gel pen to outline some of the dots on the Lavinia Stamps "White Orbs" stencil, colouring some in gold and some in a rusty glittery orange colour.  I used a "Wink of Stella" on the wings of "Fip" and touches of white gel pen too.

Lavinia Stamps Decorated Paint Pail

When I unpacked my craft stuff after moving house, I came across some items I have had, but not used for about twenty years. One of these was a clear sided paint pail. I decided to decorate it and use it to hold my Lavinia fibres.

I've used the Lavinia "High Spirits" Rice Paper for the sides and a piece of Lavinia Dream-Scape paper on the lid. Around the top and bottom of the pail I've used some Lavinia washi tape,

Over the rice paper, I have used Versafine Clair "Rain Forest" green ink to stamp the "Fairy Barnacles" stamp and one of the flowers from the "Silhouette Foliage Set". I've added colour to the barnacles using a lavendar coloured Posca Pen.

I've tied some of the Lavinia fibres to the pail handle.

Lavinia Stamps "Coven of Curiosities" New Release - Prue on a starry background

I'm still feeling poorly and couldn't get back to sleep, so decided to get up and craft, making this card in the style of card my good friend Eileen Godwin creates. 

I started with the stars from the Lavinia Stamps "Words 2" stencil, using four shades of Ranger Archival inks:  Sky Blue, Chrome Yellow, Tea Rose and Vivid Chartreuse through the stencil.

Then, I used Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink to stamp "Prue" the witch.  I grounded her using Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" and a hill mask.

Next, I stamped the "Magic Dwells" verse stamp in Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink.  I used the same ink to edge a moon mask round the top half of the witch.

I returned to Versafine clair "Nocturne" black ink to stamp the birds, which are both part of the new "Ravens" stamp set.  I also stamped the paint splatters behind/under the birds using the same ink.

Finally, I added touches of white gel pen to the witch and birds and some coloured dots of Posca Pen to replicate flowers.

Lavinia Stamps "Poppy Dwellings" Card

I've been feeling a bit meh today with headache, earache and a little snuffily so have stayed in and wallowed watching tv.  I did decide to wander up to my craft room and made this card though.

I used the aperture section of the Lavinia Stamps "Moon Mask" to create the central coloured circle, using the orange ink that was left on my blending brush from a previous project.

I then used the new Lavinia "Paint Splatters" stamp with "Tea Rose" Archival ink to extend the colour of the circle outwards.

Next I used Versafine Clair "Acorn" brown ink to stamp the Lavinia "Poppy Dwellings" stamps.  I finger stamped the tiny areas of text using the same ink with the Lavinia "Moon Signs" verse.

Finally, adding touches of gold gel pen and splatters of black Posca Pen.

Tracy Evans Boutique Designs - Snowdrop Heart

 

I've been playing with my Tracy Evans Boutique Design stamps and stencils making this card.

I started by sprizing the white card with water then sprinkling some "Gamboge" Brusho paint granules over the wet area.  I lightly spritzed the card again and used my hand held puffer tool to spread the paint colour outwards.  I used a heat gun to dry the surface.

I placed the Tracy Evans "Snippet Stencil Heart - SS12" on to the card, then stamped through the aperture using the Tracy Evans "Background Elements Stamp - TE11" with "Strawberry" Versafine Clair ink.

I used Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink to stamp the snowdrop, which is part of the Tracey Evans "Natures Beauty Stamp Set - TE31",  I used the same ink to stamp the two tiny hearts, which are part of the Tracy Evans "Quirky Birds Stamp Set - TE12". Finally adding touches of gold coloured pen across the surface of the card.

Lavinia Stamps "Coven of Curiosities" New Release - Make 12

Yesterday, I tidied my desk and put all the new release stamps away in their trays, but then I found myself pulling them out again to make this card.

For the base, I used a gel plate background I had in my stash. I used of the new Lavinia Stamps "Autumn Mist" stencils with two shades of Versafine Clair Inks:  Lilac Bloom and Monarch shades of ink. I then used the "Lilac Bloom" ink to stamp the Lavinia "Paint Splatters" around the stencilled area

I used Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink to stamp the "Witch Hazel" branches, the "Bats", the "Broomstick", the "Hallowmere signpost" and the "Poppy Dwelling" and "Poppy Lodges" stamps.

I painted the "Poppy Lodges" and "Poppy Dwellings" in "Dusty Concorde" Distress Oxide Ink.  I used the Versafine Clair "Monarch" ink to stamp the "Magic Dwells" verse in second generation stamping around the card.  Inking the edges of the card with "Villainous Potion" Distress Oxide Ink.  Finally, I added touches of a gold coloured glitter pen and a white gel pen to areas of the card.

Lavinia Stamps "Coven of Curiosities - Make 11 - Tag Tuesday

I've been up stupidly early, 1:30am to be exact as I couldn't sleep.  Too much "stuff" whirling round my head.  So I decided to get up and potter in the craft room, eventually making a tag.

I used the Lavinia Stamps "Waffle Stencil" for the background, with grey and blue ink that was on my blending brush from a previous project. I used Versafine Clair "Nocturne" black ink to stamp "Penelope", "Specter the raven" and the "Hallowmere" sign post,

I used a moon mask and Versafine Clair "Morning Mist" grey ink for the spotlight/moon, filling the area with a subtle glitter from using a "Wink of Steller".  I then used the same ink with the torn edge of a piece of copy paper to create the landscape.  Using a 2B pencil and black fine liner for shadows and grass, adding a touch of colour with Posca Pens for the flowers and a white gel pen on "Penelope" the witch.