Sarah McCrossan

Serenity

2012-01-31T02:47:00.000-08:00

Morning Everyone,

As promised here is the Bo Bunny Collection serenity. How yummy?

For the full range click on this link http://bobunny.com/lightbox/serenity.html

I'll preview Weekend Market tomorrow................

Love Sarah

New Bo Bunny

2012-01-30T00:44:00.000-08:00

Woo Hoo,

As promised here are some of the new lovely Bo Bunny collections which I can't wait to work with..................

Will show individual collection in more detail later....

Love Sarah xx

New Tim Holts Distress Ink PENS....

2012-01-26T08:04:00.000-08:00

Good Afternoon folks,

Just been perusing some of the new product being launched at CHA this weekend, and one of the new RANGER products to catch my eye are the fab looking Distress Ink Marker Pens, these will be great for using with more detailed rubber stamps. oh I can't wit to get my hand on these lovely's whoo hooo.....

Back tomorrow with some of the new paper ranges from Bo Bunny....

Love Sarah xxx

Inspirations

2012-01-20T14:27:00.000-08:00

Evening folks,
Here are some samples for tomorrows class using Hero Arts wood mounted stamp scallop floral.,I have used in combination with Copic marker pens,Tim Holtz distress inks,Curio papers by Basic Grey and a selection of coloured card.
Hope u like them.
Lots of love
Sarah

2012 and I'm back!!!

2012-01-18T00:54:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone,

I know its been a while but I'm back for 2012!!!
Hope that you have all had a lovely Christmas and a super New Year! Can't
wait to see you all at workshops, shows and events over the next few
months!

So our beautiful little boy Rowan James Roy McCrossan was born on Friday
29th July 2011, he is just amazing!!!
Above is a little picture of him playing under his baby gym.

After spending 6 wonderful months with my wee man I am back to work.
Although I was apprehensive as first and miss him dearly I am thoroughly
enjoying getting back into the swing of things, seems like so much has been
going on in the NHS and I am spending lots of time reading new initiatives,
directives and policies and attending catch up meetings.
So now back to the serious business of crafting, I have a very full diary
of events for this Spring, which is great, I have missed all my crafting friends
and partners loads!!!

Saturday 21st January
Inspirations by Card Craft Plus
Workshop - Fully Booked

Saturday 4th February
Inspirations by Card Craft Plus
Workshop

Saturday 11th February
Samuel Taylor's Leeds
Spellbinders Workshop

Sunday 19th - Tuesday 21st February
Indigo Blu Stand - Stitches Trade Show

Friday 24th February - Sunday 26th
Make It Show - Farnborough
Samuel Taylor's Stand

Monday 27th February
Inspirations by Card Craft Plus
Demo Event

Saturday 17th March
Inspirations by Card Craft Plus
Workshop

Thursday 22nd - Sunday 25th March
NEC Birmingham
Samuel Taylor's Stand

Thursday 29th - Saturday 31st March
Newcastle
Samuel Taylor's Stand

Saturday 14th April
Inspirations by Card Craft Plus
Workshop

Saturday 28th April
Samuel Taylor's Leeds
Workshop

Saturday 12th May
Port Sunlight
Indigo Blu Stand

I have also been working with Craft work cards as was one of the Signature
Designers on yesterdays TSV, if you did make the purchase I'd love to have some
feedback!!!

As usual you will find my articles in the fantastic Marking Cards Magazine
every month, I will be doing some demonstrations later in the year on behalf of
Personal Impressions.

So I will make the promise of blogging on a more regular basis!!!
Hope that you have all have a great day!

Lots of Love
Sarah xxx

GNPE - Harrogate Show

2011-03-15T02:51:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Bloggers,

Well then, its that lovely time of year when one of my fave shows of the season is held.... the Great Northern Paper crafts extravaganza!

I'm busy preparing the kits for Saturday and Sunday's Breakfast workshops that this year I will be teaching, we are making TWO cards and in the goody bag you get to KEEP TWO brand new Cling Stamps from HERO ARTS! Wowzers eh?

I'm also busy creating samples using the brand new Penny Black Stamps, that we will be featured over the weekend on the Samuel Taylors Stand!!!

Do pop by to say hello, our stand is located at the very end near to the entrance to the food hall!

Yesterday I took a day off from my real job at the NHS to order baby McCrossans pram, it was so exciting, we've opted for the Silver Cross 3D Sport in Ebony! lol the names of these prams are just so funny, you would thing we were ordering something to take us to outaspace!!

It wasn't the most expensive pram in the shop (my mum says thank god) but its practical, small and very agile, as we do alot of traveling, walking and camping this is just what we need.

Next week we are off to get a papoose and slings for Ewan and I!

Then we are looking forward to a week of in May when the Nursery will be decorated and the beautiful Humphrey's corner nursery furniture will be delivered, I tell you it's all systems go from now on!

Back to craft have you seen my articles in this months "Making Cards Magazine"?

I designed a spring collection in lovely lemons and whites, then at the back of the magazine you will find my grungy looking Pirate cards for boys, they would make great birthday party invitations!

The materials I used are listed in the magazine, however you can locate the Tim Holtz Products from any Personal Impressions stockist and the Stamps are from Stamping Up, to find your nearest demonstrator check out Stampin Ups website.

Looking forward to seeing you all at the weekend,

Take Care,

S and B xxx

Fish Fight Continues.................

2011-03-11T00:03:00.000-08:00

view online

An update from Hugh regarding the BIG FISH FIGHT!

Dear Fish Fighters,
I'm writing to you all again sooner than I had expected, but I have just received some very exciting Fish Fight news that I'm sure you'll want to hear about. I'm also convinced there is a great opportunity now for direct action from you to bring about an even better result – so please read on! Here's the headline:Princes, the largest tinned tuna supplier in the UK, have committed to making a dramatic change in the way they source their tuna. They have just announced that they will stop relying on purse seine fishing on fish aggregation devices (FADs). As we highlighted in the Fish Fight series earlier in the year, this fishing method is responsible for huge amounts of bycatch including sharks, rays and other fish, and even some turtles.

Joining forces with Greenpeace, we directly challenged Princes to either change the way they catch tuna, or to remove the misleading environmental statements they were making on their tins.We're delighted to say they've chosen the former option!Princes have pledged that by the end of 2014 all their tinned tuna will be caught by either pole and line or FAD-free purse seine nets.This is tremendous news.This latest result brings the company in line with Sainsbury's, Marks & Spencer and Waitrose, whose tinned tuna is all FAD free. Let's not also forget Tesco, who made a fantastic commitment to go 100% pole and line back in January, just before our programmes went out. We've also just heard that Asda have committed to match Princes's strategy to remove all FADs from their supply chains.So what is next? That leaves just two companies - John West and Morrisons - which are refusing to stop buying tuna caught by purse seine fishing on FADs. We now have a massive opportunity to make these companies improve their practices, starting with John West. I'd like to ask you to help take this campaign one step further by emailing John West to urge them to change their tuna sourcing, by dropping FADs and/or sourcing from pole and line fisheries. You can find all the details on how to do this on Greenpeace's website. It will only take a few minutes to do but I'm absolutely convinced that direct pressure from you could rapidly bring about this vital change.Email John West now!The rest of the Fish Fight campaign continues full steam ahead! As part of our research for a Channel 4 follow up programme we've been talking to a wide range of NGOs, decision makers, fishermen, scientists and industry members. Thanks to your incredible support, we have access to all the major players shaping the future of our fisheries.And we're also very keen to hear more about what you're up to. If you are an individual or a family that has dramatically changed your fish eating habits as a result of the campaign, we're really keen to hear from you. Please do get in touch via hello@fishfight.net and you could be featured in the next Channel 4 programme.Many thanks and as always keep fish fighting!Best,Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall

We’ve loved seeing pictures of the sustainable fish suppers you’ve been cooking. Like this Pan-sauteed herring atop of a sweet potato, potato and beetroot hash from Claire Kleinedler. Please send further pictures of your culinary delights to hello@fishfight.net
You've sent us some great videos of your incredible campaigning stories. But we need more so we can feature them in our follow-up programme. This could be as simple as filming a poster you have in your car, a sustainable dinner you cook, or a Fish Fight event you hold. Please send videos or links from YouTube to hello@fishfight.net and you could be on Channel 4!

But we still need more! Please continue to help spread the word. Email this newsletter to a friend…or three!
Have you tried this tasty and sustainable alternative yet? If your local doesn’t have mackerel on the menu, ask them why not! Then add them to the MackMap and we’ll do the rest.
Net yourself a Fish Fighter t-shirt, bag or even a babygro and help support the campaign. Please note we are not making any money from the sale of these products; they are just to help publicise the campaign.

Saturdays Class - Haberdashery ............ EDIT with Birthday message

2011-03-02T13:59:00.000-08:00

Good Evening Bloggers,

Here is a sneak peek for Saturday's Class.
This project was created using the brand new stamps from Tim Holtz Haberdashery CMS105. The class will concentrate more on techniques than finished cards, but this mini project will let you have something nice to have on your craft room wall to remind you of some hints and tips.
The second half of the class is using another of Tim's New stamp sets, Papillon CMS106, wowzers these are just fab! I have really enjoyed working with them........
I'll post some more photos of the cards using the Papillon set over the weekend....
On Saturday we will also be eating lots of cake I'm sure, as Linda from CCP will be celebrating her birthday!!! Whoo Hoo!!! Again I'll post photo's.
Take Care
S & B xxx

Busy Weekend in Farnborough

2011-03-01T02:05:00.001-08:00

Good Morning Bloggers,

Well what a weekend at the "Make It" Farnborough?

As soon as I took one foot of the train at Farnborough Railway Station I was amazed to notice how mild the weather was "down south" It was just lovely. The nice weather continued on Friday when we had the busiest day of the show! But Saturday and Sunday saw some shocking rain and hail!!! ECK!!!

I was demonstrating Hero Arts Stamps, Distress Inks and some fantastic new dies from the GO Kreate range. All very yummy!!!

It was so lovely to see some familiar faces too, hello to everyone who popped on the stand!

I love working the shows and will make the most of the Spring season, as when Baby McCrossan comes in the summer I will be too busy being a new mum to work any of the Autumn shows!

Anyway better crack on, I have samples for Saturdays Class at Card Craft Plus in Preston to work on and my cards for the Harrogate breakfast workshops for Samuel Taylor's to design!

Take Care,

S & B xxx

Tim Holtz Workshop....

2011-02-18T05:33:00.000-08:00

Afternoon Bloggers,

I am so excited I could burst! I am a very lucky girl in more ways than one!!!

Tomorrow afternoon I have the pleasure of attending a Tim Holtz Workshop at the Stitches Trade show in Birmingham. Jan from PI got me a ticket for the event and I am so very grateful, it's been quite a few months since she told me and I just cant wait to see what we will be making!

I'll post photos when I get home.

Hope that you all have a nice weekend too!

Take Care
S & B xxx

Making Cards Magazine....... March 2011 Issue

2011-02-15T06:15:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Boggers,

In this months Making Cards Magazine, I have three articles yet again! Whoo hoo!!!

pg. 11 -13 Heavenly Hydrangeas - A collection of cards using a simple colour pallet of Bundled Sage and Cream card stock. The Hero Arts Hydrangea stamp is available from Personal Impressions Stockists, including Samuel Taylor's and Card Craft Plus Preston.

pg 16-17 Dainty Designs - Two cards created with The My Minds Eye Market Street Collection Kit, available from Samuel Taylor's

pg 88 -89 Designs for Icons, Rockin' cards using the Cambridge Collection of papers from Bo Bunny and trinkets from east of India co. Also including metal embellishments from Tim Holtz, products available from Card Craft Plus Preston and Personal Impressions.

Hope that you have liked my latest creations, in next months magazine I have two articles, Serene Stamping and Pirate cards for the boys!

Take Care,
S & B xxx

Card Craft Plus - Preston

2011-02-10T13:32:00.000-08:00

Good Evening Bloggers,

Phew, I'm shattered!!!!
I've Had a great day today at Card Craft Plus in Preston, I have been demonstrating as part of their 1 year anniversary of the New Inspirations Shop at Capitol Way in Preston!

It's such a lovely shop, with very lovely staff and yummy customers, each and every time I do any work at CCP, either workshops or demonstrations, I'm always well looked after, Subway Lunches, lots of refreshments and today even a Cadbury's Crunchie with Georgina!!! mmmmmm

I'm back again tomorrow teaching a mini workshop, spaces are very limited, I think only the afternoon session still has some spaces. Like I said in my last post we are using a set of Hero Arts Stamps and Distress Inks to create background work, main focal images and "Inchies" art!!

So off to bed now, me and Bump are a wee bit tired and an early night will do us the world of good!

Take Care,

S & B xxx

Piece of Art

2011-02-09T13:12:00.000-08:00

Good Evening Bloggers,

Here is a project that I have created for my demonstration for tomorrow at Card Craft Plus in Preston. Apologies for the really bad photo, my camera has given up and I took this in the dark using my Blackberry!!! (note to self need a new camera)

Its using a mixture of Hero Art Stamps , Distress Inks, Nestabilities, and Tim Holtz Ideology items.

I have added each 5cm x 5cm image to a wood frame that I painted white with Rangers Paint Dabbers.

I have been busy tonight prepping samples, its great to get in my craft room now and then to make some pieces that I'm happy with!

Hope to see you tomorrow,

S & B xxx

Weekend Review

2011-02-07T03:24:00.001-08:00

Hello Bloggers,

Phew one weekend down, many, many more to go............
This is a very busy time for us crafter's as its show season and with all the lovely new products being launched from CHA, most retail shops are booking demonstrations and events.

This past week I have been working the stand at GMEX, working with all the great new releases from Go Kreate, Superb new card making dies, that come in collections of 4 are just genius! More about them tomorrow.

Saturday was a fab day at Samuel Taylor's on behalf of Personal Impressions, we looked at the lovely Hero Arts Stamps and New designs from Martha Stewart, all yummy!
I also got to spend the day with my dear friend Sue Hobbs, Store Manager at ST Leeds. Her work is just lovely, so I had a great day, but don't ask Sue about the train journey home, that's a sore subject - lol!!!

Anyway just a quick reminder that I will be at Card Craft Plus in Preston Thursday and Friday on behalf of Personal Impressions, demonstrations on the Thursday and mini workshops on the Friday.
The mini workshops are designed around a single set of stamps for Hero Arts, we will be making focal images and background papers as well as "Inchies" art. It will be great fun, do pop along any time during this week as there are lots of demonstrations, including Leonie, Ann-Marie and many more!

So buy for now,
Take Care,
S & B xx

Demonstration Day at Samuel Taylor's Leeds

2011-01-26T02:45:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Bloggers,

Just wanted to remind you that I am going to be at Samuel Taylor's Leeds on Saturday 5th February, on behalf of Personal Impressions working with fantastic stamps from Hero Arts......

Also I will be teaching two classes on Saturday 12th February at the Leeds store...

Making the most out of your Die Cutting equipment for the morning session
Using the fantastic New Hot Pick Stamps from Paper Artsy for the afternoon session

To book your place on these workshops please call the Leeds store direct on 0113 2480044

Hope to see you then,

Hugs Sarah and Bump xxx

New 2011 Catalogue from Hero Arts

2011-01-25T00:10:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Bloggers,

Well here it is the new 2011 Hero Arts Catalogue, they have as always some very exciting new designs. The range covers Clings, Woodblock and clear, so whatever your preference there are collections of stamps for everyone. I still personally like woodblock but I do like the convenience of the Clings, as they are still the trusty old red rubber.

Anyway here are some of my hot pick, which I cant wait to get my hands on............

Personal Impressions will be shipping the lovely new designs to retailers in the next few weeks, so not long now to get our hands on great new designs.

See ya soon,

Sarah and Bump xxx

New Products from Sir Tim and Ranger

2011-01-24T05:42:00.000-08:00

Good Afternoon Bloggers,

Here are some of the lovely new product releases from Tim Holtz and his teams at Ranger, Sizzix and Stampers Anonymous.

I have long been a fan of the Ranger Distress Ink Pads and now they are launching Distress Ink Stains. How cool is that? I think it will be a month of two before we get them here in the UK, but I'm sure all the new produces about the be launched next week at CHA will be in stores here very soon......
Obviously with every CHA launch Tim releases new stamp designs, he has 11 new sets coming out, I have to say they contain are some of my fave designs from Tim in a long while, really usable images, and with the added bonus of a index sticker and his new Grid Blocks, stamping Tim's way is gonna get a little more interesting this year!

One of my loves is to match card to the colour of ink that I'm using, well this new release of CO-Ordinations card stock in all the Distress Colours and some of the Adirondack pallet is right up my street. The fact that I love to us the sandable textured card is just great news!

Check out Tim's blog for an exciting video viewing of all his new lines........

Take Care
Sarah and Bump xxx

New Paper Collections from Bo Bunny

2011-01-21T03:37:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Bloggers,

It's that time of year when all the American companies release new product lines at CHA winter 2011. This is the twice annually Trade show over in the US, which one day I might attend, but hey we have our version which is Stitches in February (can't wait, as I'm going to be attending a very special workshop wooooooo) And as the bump is starting to get a little bigger I think I'll stay home for now!

Anyway over the next few days/weeks I'll be sharing with you some of the lovely new product lines which have caught my eye and can't wait to work with.

Starting this series of posts are the lovely new paper collections from Bo Bunny

Check out the full collections at Bo Bunny's Blog, they are just all lovely. I think my fave is "Time Piece", but I'll try some of each of the new ranges, I'll also slip them into my Spring 2011 workshops.

Back tomorrow with new products from Ranger! Yummy!

Hugs Sarah and Bump xxx

Demo Day at Samuel Taylor's Leeds

2011-01-20T01:34:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Bloggers!

After enjoying a nice peaceful break over the Christmas period, things are beginning to hot up again, demonstrations, workshops and the Spring show season is now nearly upon us once more!

Kicking of the season I'll be on the Samuel Taylor's stand at the Manchester GMEX, Thursday 3rd and Friday 4th February. Demonstrating all the lovely new designs from "Go Kreate" die cutting systems

Then I'll be demonstrating at Samuel Taylor's Leeds on Saturday 5th February 10-4pm on behalf of Personal Impressions. I'll be working with Hero Arts Stamps, Martha Stewart Punches and much more!

Hope that you can make it?

Love Sarah and Bump xxx

Making Cards Magazine February Issue

2011-01-19T03:32:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Bloggers,

Just picked up the February Issue of Making Cards Magazine and I have three articles published this time, wowzers!

One collection focuses on the use of Alcohol Inks to create individual backgrounds using rustic colours of Cranberry, rust and gold incorporating Tim Holtz Stamps from Personal Impressions Stockists.

Another is a collection for Babies using the fab papers from Making Memories Pitter Patter, all so cute and very, very versatile. Papers available from Card Craft Plus in Preston.

The last one is in the Made for Men section of the magazine, using the unique papers from Bo Bunny - Mamma Razzi. I love how these sophisticated papers can be both vintage and modern at the same time. Bo Bunny available from Portfolios in Blackburn.

Over the next few months I have some really exciting new projects to share with you all featured in Making Cards Magazine!

Enjoy,
Love Sarah and Bump xxx

The Big FISH Fight

2011-01-17T02:03:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Bloggers,

I rarely encourage thoughts or ideas onto other people, however after watching a whole week of programmes on Channel 4 dedicated to looking into the state the fishing industry I am urging you to have a look on the Channel 4 website read the interviews, watch the "4OD" programmes and sign the petitions.

Ewan and I are truly disgusted in the way we not only catch Fish, but more importantly "DISCARDED" back into the sea!!! Not to mention the barbaric and utterly disgusting way sharks are being murdered simply for the fins. Last nights programme "Gordan Ramsey's shark tail" was disturbing in so may ways. Huge sharks are being caught, brought on deck, having their fins sliced off and then thrown back into the sea to die a long and painful death. This can not go on, for the sake of a £90 bowl of shark fin soup! Disgraceful!

It is such an important campaign, fronted by some of the country's well known celebrity chefs, Jamie Oliver, Gordon Ramsey, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and Heston Blumenthal. This is one time I believe the general public can help make the Fisheries commission change the way quotas are set to protect our fish stocks but more importantly reduce the amount of "wastage". The amount of dead fish thrown back into the seas due to unrealistic quotas is shameful, it could feed so many people, not enough people eat fresh fish as due to the ever increasing cost, forced to rise by 'again' the quotas!

Anyway better get off my soap box now, and get back to work but Cceck out http://www.fishfight.net/

Love Sarah and Bump xxx

Sneek Peek

2011-01-13T00:06:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Bloggers,

After a two month absence from making cards and the craft world, I am now back with the creative juices flowing.

I've been designing for magazine articles, demonstration days and upcoming workshops, its been such fun!

It's also been great to get back in to my craft room, which will soon be turning into the Nursery for baby McCrossan so I'm making the most of it while I still have my little craft haven!

Anyway here is a sneak peek at one of the magazine articles which will be featured in Making Cards over the next few months! I'll apologies for the poor quality of photograph, my camera has finally given up the ghost and since my current shopping list contains, cots, prams and other baby items I don't think I will be getting a new camera this month!

Hope you like?................

Hugs Sarah and Bump xxx

New Card Making Dies

2011-01-09T03:42:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Bloggers,

Well as it's the new year I thought I would share some NEW product lines with you.

This is one of my favorite products at the moment The New Cards Making Dies by GO Kreate, exclusive to Samuel Taylor's I love shaped card bases but they can be so expensive to buy, well now you can cut your own in any colour.

When Blogger decides to upload my photos, I'll post lovely finished samples using this unique die.

Catch you later,
Love Sarah xx

Card Craft Plus Workshops

2010-12-22T03:19:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Bloggers......

Quick update on Spring 2011 workshops, I am now teaching 3 new dates at Card Craft Plus in Preston

Saturday 15th January2011

Saturday 5th March 2011

Saturday 23rd April 2011

To book call direct on 01772 272572

Winter Wishes to you all,

Love Sarah xxx

Demonstration Day for Personal Impressions and updates......

2010-12-21T02:14:00.000-08:00

Hello Bloggers,

Please accept my apologies for not blogging lately as some of you already know I'm going through lots of changes including at work and my personal life, I am very excited to let you that Ewan and I are expecting our first baby next summer and as you can imagine the first few months have been tricky with ALL DAY SICKNESS - not just in the morning.......... tiredness etc, etc, so I am now hopeful that the next few months will be alot easier.

Anyway onto business, I already have a very busy diary for February, March and April, with Demonstrations for Personal Impressions, Card Craft Plus in Preston & Samuel Taylors. Alongside workshops in ST Leeds and Brighouse each month and you will also find me at the Trade Shows Farnborough, NEC Birmingham, Harrogate & AlyPally London.
I decided to get a good craft fix in before Baby McCrossan makes an appearance.

I am so looking forward to some time off during Christmas, spending time with the family which I adore and I will also be back in my craft room designing for Magazine articles and my first workshop of 2011.

Have you had a look at the new Hero Arts Catalogue yet? What can I say, I'm in love!! As usual I think I need to re-mortgage my home to allow for all the lovely new design that I NEED!!! LOL.

So watch our for some long awaited projects to appear on my blog and of course I will let you know when my Guest Blogging will be and where!

Wishing you all a wonderful Festive Season,

Be back soon,

Love Sarah & Bump!!! xx

Us......

2010-11-13T02:03:00.000-08:00

Morning Bloggers,

While I charge my camera batteries ready to upload some nice cards using the new Bo Bunny Christmas collections, here is a photo of Ewan and I. This was taken a few weeks ago when Mum and Dad McCrossan were staying with us.

Big Hugs

Sarah xxx

Alcohol Inks...

2010-11-11T02:14:00.000-08:00

Here is a quick card using Alcohol Inks, this is one from a collection for a magazine article due out soon, (this design did not make the finished copy)

Materials include:

Go Kreate Vines 1 Embossing Folder

Tim Holtz Sizzix Alterations Die - Tattered Floral

Ranger Alcohol Inks

Bazzill Card Stock

Ribbon

Adhesive Gems

All availiable from http://www.clickoncrafts.co.uk/

Hope you like it.....

Sarah xxx

A poem for a forever friend..................

2010-11-11T01:06:00.000-08:00

ANOTHER GOOD THING OVER BEFORE IT BEGAN

How do I say goodbye to you When we never really said hello?

Is it any easier to walk away from the seeds of a friendship, never given time to root and grow?(Grow into what – a bigger friendship? I don’t know.)

And how is it possible to miss someone I hardly ever knew?

How can I know if you were my hero, When you rode into the sunset

Long before the credits rolled.

How can there be a formal end to something Which had no real beginning?

I can only thank you for the rainbows you brought to my storms;

For the silver lining you stitched in my clouds.

It was refreshing to find, In this Sea of Skepticism, Another fish peering at the world through a prism.

So, thank you for the laughs we had and those that might have been.

I really cannot say goodbye. Please, always be my friend.

. . . Nancy Sue Krenrich Hamm

Zen Dog..........................

2010-11-10T05:10:00.000-08:00

"He knows not where he's going
For the Ocean will decide
It's not the DESTINATION.......
.......It's the glory of THE RIDE...

To one of my new found friends, take care.....

Love Sarah xxxx

NEC

2010-11-08T08:41:00.000-08:00

Good Afternoon All,

Well its official I'm shattered!!! After a very busy 5 days at the Craft show held in Birmingham I am so glad to be home, It was so wonderful to see Ewan enjoyed the biggest cuddle ever.

It was a great show, met lots of new people and had some very late nights with my dear friends and colleagues at Samuel Taylors! David, Sue, Hazel, Kay, Tom, Becca, Paul & Sharon. It's like a big family when the show season is in full swing and every show takes so much time, preparation and planning and that's even before the event takes place.

I also have to mention that we also met 5 new friends, who almost felt part of the ST team as we spent so much time with them, Roy, Chris, Derek, Ian and Martin from BT Openreach who are staying at the same hotel.
They are long time guests who are all based in Wales but work for weeks on end in Birmingham. So when I said that its hard being away from home and in particular Ewan, they were on hand to listen and give advise, as they are old hat at that kind of thing! We even had nicknames for them by the end of our stay!

If any of you boys are reading this thanks for all your support, keep smiling!!!

The show itself was busy, Sue and I took daily turns in demonstrating different product lines, for two days I worked with Dreamweaver embossing Paste and Stencils, for those who know me well, know that me and paste do not had the best relationship in the past but we have now made friends!!! Samples to follow
It was my 30th Birthday while the show was taking place and I wanted to thank Sue and Hazel who supplied copious amounts of birthday cake(s) Thank you ever so much!

Although it is so good to be home, its kinda strange you do miss all the people who you piratically see 24-7, eat, work & relax with. I've spoken to Sue at the Leeds Store and she said the same too. She now has 3 daughters not just 2, I think of her as a surrogate mummy! Ha ha Big hugs Sue.....

Anyway times ticking on and I must just remind anybody who is interested that I am teaching a class at Samuel Taylors Brighouse this Sunday, based around the new Bo Bunny Christmas collections. If you would like to book your place then give the store a ring......

For now check out the new Samuel Taylors Blog, I will be making guest appearances some time soon, with lots of new and exciting products coming out including the Card making Dies from Go Kreate!

http://samueltaylors.blogspot.com/

Bye for now...
Love Sarah xx

Personal Impressions Demonstration

2010-10-27T05:32:00.000-07:00

Good Afternoon Bloggers......

Just a quick update, I have one more Christmas demonstration booked in for Personal Impressions.

Saturday 27th November - Grovesnor House Papers Kendal
for all you last minute Christmas ideas, pop along to see what to do with the lovely new Hero Arts Christmas Stamps....

Hope to see you,

Hugs
Sarah xx

Autumn ........... the best season

2010-10-15T03:41:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Bloggers,

I love Autumn, it is my fav season of the year by far. The colours are just lovely! To me Autumn is the time that nature is preparing for the big changes ahead.

Thought I would share some super colourful Autumnal photos with you!

Enjoy,

Hugs

Sarah xx

Making Cards Magazine

2010-10-14T03:56:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Bloggers,

Just picked up the new issue of Making Cards Magazine and I have two articles this month!

The first is using the lovely Christmas Papers and die cuts from Nitwit, available for Personal Impressions stockists and the second is in the "Made for Men" Category working with the small but cute "Tree Trimmings" bauble rubber stamps from "Stampin Up!"

I'll post more photo's later.

Also just wanted to let you know that my next class at Card Craft Plus in Preston is Saturday 30th October 2010 - Full day - Hero Arts and Martha Stewart Punches!

My next Class at Samuel Taylor's Brighouse is Sunday 14th November 2010 - Full Day - Using the new Bo bunny Winter Joy Range! yummy!

Anyway take care,

Hugs Sarah xx

New Tresea Collins Papers.......... Noel

2010-09-30T02:58:00.001-07:00

Hello and Good Morning dear Bloggers,

Here are a few cards I designed for Making Cards Magazine using the NEW Noel Collection of patterned papers from Teresa Collins, however I missed the Christmas Issue deadline so I thought I would share them on my blog instead.

I love the great vintage colours of Rich Red, Black and Cream. I added some deep colouring with the pro marker pens to break them up a bit.

I think I will use some of these lovely papers for my cards this year...............

Enjoy,

Sarah xx

Basic Ink Pad Tutorial

2010-09-29T02:04:00.000-07:00

Basic Ink Pad tutorial for customers at my last workshop in Brighouse and Leeds........

Versamark
Clear very sticky Ink for heat embossing, relief work, and watermark effect.
Great for Ultra Thick Embossing, Chalks and any medium needing a slow drying Ink.

**Can use in Card Making**

Comes in: Ink Pad, Re Inker, Small and Large Pads, Double Ended Pen, Clear Ink & Dazzle and Frost

Tools to use: Heat Embossing Tool, Stamps

Available From: Personal Impressions Stockists, visit www.personalimpressions.com for your nearest store.

Distress Ink
Water based Dye ink for Stamping, water colouring, direct to paper.
Acid-free non-toxic fade resistant water-based dye inks.

**Can use in Scrapbooking & Card Making**

Comes in: In Pads & Re Inkers, 36 Colours

Tools to use: Ink Blending tool, Cut & Dry & Foam, Water Brushes, Stamps, Non-Stick craft Sheet

Available From: Personal Impressions Stockists, visit www.personalimpressions.com for your nearest store.

Staz-On Black (& All Dark Colours)
StazOn is a solvent-based inkpad designed for decorating non-porous surfaces such as glass, metal, shrink plastic, cellophane, aluminium foil, leather and acrylic.

**Can use in Card Making**

Comes In: Lots of different colours, Ink Pads and Re-Inkers available

Tools to Use: Staz-On Cleaner spray or original

Available From: Personal Impressions Stockists, visit www.personalimpressions.com for your nearest store.

Staz-On Opaque (like Cotton White)
StazOn is a solvent-based inkpad designed for decorating non-porous surfaces such as glass metal, shrink plastic, cellophane, aluminium foil, leather and acrylic.

**Can use in Card Making**

Comes In: Lots of different colours, Ink Pads WITH Re-Inkers NEW Metallic Colours available.

Tools to Use: Staz-On Cleaner spray or original

Available From: Personal Impressions Stockists, visit www.personalimpressions.com for your nearest store.

Mememto
Memento dye Ink Pad for Stamps is fast drying and fade resistant. The innovative pad delivers finer impressions and exceptionally even coverage

**Can Use in Card Making

Comes In: Lots of different Colours, available in regular sized Ink pads and mini Due Drop style

Tools to Use: A good Stamp Cleaner. Perfect with Pro-Markers and Copic Pens

Available From: Personal Impressions Stockists, visit www.personalimpressions.com for your nearest store.

Stampin Up Classic Ink Pads
Water based Dye ink for Stamping, water colouring, direct to paper.
Acid-free non-toxic fade resistant water-based dye inks.

**Can use in Scrapbooking & Card Making**

Comes in: In regular size in Pads called Classic Ink Pads & Re Inkers, also available “Stampin Spots” Mini copies of the Classic, sold in colour collections from the “Stampin Up” Catalogue 48 Colours with occasional “In Colours” offers

Tools to use: Ink Blending tool, Cut & Dry & Foam, Water Brushes, Stamps, Non-Stick craft Sheet.

Hope this answers a few of your questions..................................
Hugs
Sarah

OMG is been so long....................

2010-09-13T02:42:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Bloggers,

I'm so sorry it's been a while since I last posted. I've just been crazy busy, with Demonstrations for Personal Impressions, classes in Preston, Brighouse and Leed's, working the Papercrafts show in Harrogate, I don't know where the last two weeks have gone?

Whilst on my travels I have met many new lovely, lovely peeps, just wanted to say a big hello to all my new crafting buddy's! Thank you to all of you who came up to the Samuel Taylors stand over the weekend at Harrogate, it was so nice to see you all and have a quick natter!

I'll update my Demonstrations and events list later today, loads on new dates to add. Two new dates for Card Craft Plus in Preston, one a demonstration and one a class! Whoo hoo! Smashing girls over there and what a great store too?? I think the class will be Hero Arts New Christmas Stamps, yummy!!!

I have a nice project planned for the end of the week so do pop back later.

Bye for now,

Sarah xx

Ewan's Photo's

2010-08-26T03:28:00.000-07:00

Good Morning All,

Sometimes my husband shocks me with how fantastic he really is! Not only was last nights dinner a fab homemade quiche of Goats Cheese, Sweet Potato and red onion, the best quiche I've ever tasted but as I was flicking through uploaded photos on our home PC, I came across these beauties.

Now as many of you know Ewan is into lots of sports and mountain biking is one of them. If he is off during the week he will take himself off to somewhere nice for the day.

Anyway these are some where in Yorkshire. The area looks amazing and so, so beautiful. I didn't realise that he snapped these on his "phone" omg!!!

Hope that you enjoy then as much as I do...... (more photos to follow my computer is not letting me upload anymore!!)

Take Care,

Sarah xxx

Sunday, Sunday............

2010-08-22T02:20:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Bloggers!

Hope that you are all having a lovely weekend?

Yesterday was a great day, I was demonstrating MS Punches and Hero Arts Stamps at Grosvenor House papers in Kendal on behalf of Personal Impressions.

It was so lovely to see so many familiar faces, and thank you to every one who came and said hello! Janet who is the owner and all her staff were fab, all the demonstrators were really well looked after, lots of tea, fruit and a great lunch, however I did manage to resist the Delicious looking home made cake!

Here are a couple of cards I designed for a magazine article which couldn't be published because they wouldn't photograph well due to the acetate.

So instead I'm gonna use them in next weeks class at Card Craft Plus in Preston!

Anyway all my cleaning up is done and now I'm off to the gym.

Enjoy you Sunday,

Sarah xx

Dates, Dates and more Dates......

2010-08-19T02:32:00.000-07:00

Good morning bloggers,

Sorry it's been a while since I last posted, its been crazy busy. Workshops, Demonstrations and Magazine work are all taking up most of my free time!

I have a demonstration this Saturday at Grosvenor House Papers in Kendal on behalf of Personal Impressions, It's a great big event with lots of demonstrations and other fun things going on! I'll be working with New designs from Martha Stewart and Hero Arts. Hope you could pop along.
In this months Making Cards Magazine I have an article I designed many months back using you guessed it Hero Arts Stamps!!! I dabbled a little bit with the Copic markers too, however I am no expert with them, I really should book myself onto a class to lean how to use them properly!

Today is a special day for me too, it's mine and Ewan's 3rd Wedding Anniversary, he is just the most special person in the world, my rock with everything we are about to embark on over the next few months I know he will be right by my side every step of the way!

Anyway check out the Workshops and Demonstrations column at the side for all my up coming events.

Take Care,

Sarah xx

The Twins........................

2010-08-09T14:40:00.001-07:00

Too Cute!!!xxxx

Wedding, Twins and a page for Friday..................

2010-08-09T07:43:00.000-07:00

Good Afternoon Everyone,

Well what a weekend phew, me feet have not touched the ground.

Firstly we spent Saturday morning nursing the twins, the lovely Sophia and Emilie, how cute are they?

Both me and Ewan are smitten, we enjoyed our wee time with the babies feeding a nursing. Getting in all the practice we can!

Then onto the Wedding of our dear friends Andy and Tamar. It was such a magical day. More photos to follow.

Lastly here is a scrapbook page I have designed for a crafting party this weekend!

Hugs Sarah xx

A card for next Sunday..................

2010-08-01T14:39:00.001-07:00

Good Evening Everyone,

Here is a card I have designed for next Sundays Demo at Card Craft Plus in Preston.

Its using Hero Arts Stamps Big Flowers Pattern CL375 & Essential Messages CL371 available from Personal Impressions stockists.

The greeting is punched out using spellbinders nestabilities, Ovals and Scalloped Ovals. The background is cream card embossed with a cuttlebug folder.

Off to watch Sherlock, mmmmm the new Sherlock.

Hugs Sarah xxx

Card Craft Plus - Preston

2010-07-29T04:49:00.000-07:00

Good Afternoon,

Just wanted to let you know that I am doing a demonstration for Personal Impressions at Card Craft Plus Sunday 8th August 11- 5.

I'll be working with NEW Christmas Punches from Martha Stewart & latest designs from Hero Arts.

It will be a day filled with crafting and lots of fun, hope you can come along and say hello?

Hugs

Sarah xx

Making Card August 2010 Issue

2010-07-22T04:40:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Just wanted to show you some of the cards that I have published in the August Issue of Making Cards Magazine.

This month I have TWO article published, one is In the Stars using reds, blue and Kraft Colour ways and the "In the Stars" Set of Stamps From Hero Arts.

The second is a collection using the Poppy background stamp from Hero Arts, Chocolate Chip and Old Olive Classic Ink Pads and Card Stock from Stampin Up!

All Hero Arts Stamps that I have used are available from Personal Impressions Stockists

Hope you like,

Hugs
Sarah xxx

MIA......................

2010-07-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

Evening Bloggers,

SO sorry I've been away for a short while, amongst work, prep and holidays I have been in Hospital for a few small operations over the past week. But hey on the mend now and my consultant Mr W is fab!!!!

I also wanted to let you know there is still one space left on my Distress Inks class next Saturday 17th July at Samuel Taylor's Brighouse. It's a full day for £25.00, please phone the store to book your place!

I'm also demonstrating Hero Arts Stamps at Card Craft Plus in Preston Saturday 24th July, so if your around come and say hello! I'm sure there will be plenty of offers and new designs to tempt you anyway!

Will be posting some Alcohol Ink Samples that me and my dear friend Jane made recently!
Off for a nap, still tired for the GA!

Hugs
Sarah xxx

At my Friend Carol's

2010-06-21T00:52:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Hope that you have had a nice weekend?

I had the most wonderful day yesterday! Spoilt rotten with kindness.

I spent the afternoon with my dear friend Carol Hutton at her home deep in the Ribble Valley.

Carol!

Not only were we chatting, crafting and having a jolly good time, but she is a fantastic cook!

I know I live with a chef, but hey her Butternut Squash and Garlic Soup was to die for. Not to mention her home made cakes YES CAKESSSS! mmmm Cake!

Carol's Craft Room

A small selection of Carol's "Stamin Up" Stamps

I thought her cake was so nice and she very kindly gave me some to give to Ewan, he had a little try said it was fab, but then I couldn't resist scoffing another chunk for my supper!

So what ever you got up to I hope it was a nice as my day!

Hugs

Sarah xxx

Making Cards June 2010 "Flowers For Friends"

2010-06-19T06:48:00.000-07:00

Good Afternoon everyone,
Just wanted to update you on the July Making Cards Magazine.

My article Flowers for Friends pages 27,28 & 29 ARE actually mine! I used fab supplies from "Stampin Up" the Vintage Vogue set of stamps, Inks and matching card Stock.

I have had a written apology from the Editor of Making Cards, I suppose these things happen sometimes, no point crying over spilt mike as they say.

Even though Michelle Johnson's picture is in the magazine I know they are my pieces of artwork which I still have to be proud of, I know Ewan is!
Hugs
Sarah x x x

Count down to Keswick...........

2010-06-17T00:16:00.000-07:00

Good Morning All,

I'm now on the count down to our holiday to Keswick. (right after my class on the 27th at Brighouse)

We adore this beautiful Lakeland town, it's one of the most tranquil places on earth, believe me after living and traveling all over the world, sometimes there's no place like home.

So looking forward to days on the Lake in our Kayaks, walking up Cat Bell's, and having our fill of Hungarian Goulash which one of the quaint little pubs in the town serves, just what you want after a very long walk!

We camp, and love it, just got a new very large tent, which I am so pleased with big enough for all our Camping equipment and perhaps a tiny bit of craft. SSSSHHHHH don't tell Ewan! Ha ha ha.

Anyway a week and a bit before we go, so better stop day dreaming and get back to work.

Hugs

Sarah xx

Card Craft Plus Tomorrow..............

2010-06-11T09:37:00.000-07:00

Evening All,

Here are just a few samples that I have put together for tomorrow demonstration at Card Craft Plus in Preston.

They are using the Big and Little Stamp Set from Hero Arts. HACL374. Available from Card Craft Plus or other Personal Impressions stockists.

I got my inspiration from the Samples designed by Shari Carol for the 2010 Hero Arts Catalogue.

Hope to see you tomorrow....

Love 'n' hugs

Sarah xxx

Demonstration Day Saturday 12th June

2010-06-10T05:51:00.000-07:00

Good Afternoon All,

Hope that you can join me on Saturday 12th June for a Demonstration event held at Inspirations by card craft plus in Preston> I will be attending on behalf of Personal Impressions.
I will be demonstrating the lovely New designs from Martha Stewart Punches and Hero Arts Stamps. Along with beautiful pastel Inks and American Crafts card stock.
I'm not going to be the only demonstrator the line up is as follows.......

Thursday 10th Jo, Claire & Jak

Friday11th Melanie, Esther & Hayley

Saturday 12th Christine, Anthony & Me

Sunday 13th Leonie & Ann-Marie

Hope that you can make it?
Love n hugs
Sarah xxx

Metal & Stamp Class

2010-06-07T04:08:00.000-07:00

Good Morning everyone,

A real quick update for you.

I am teaching an additional class at Samuel Taylor's Brighouse on Sunday 27th June 10.15 - 3.45 £25.00.

It will be working with metal sheets from 10 Seconds Studio and Walnut Hollow, stamps from Hero Arts & Paper Artsy, Cuttlebug embossing folders and the New Alterations Dies from Tim Holtz.

Phone 01484 401419 to book your place.

Love 'n' Hugs

Sarah xxx

Mary, Carol & Me!

2010-06-03T02:31:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Here is a very quick post with more photo's from the Ireland weekend!

New October 2010 Dates to be released soon.

Looking Forward to Saturday, when I will be demonstrating at Centagraph in Harrogate, do come along and say hello!

Love Sarah xxx

Centagraph Harrogate

2010-05-26T03:41:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Just a quick post to let you know that I will be demonstrating at Centagraph in Harrogate Saturday 5th June on behalf of Personal Impressions.
I'll be working with new designs from Martha Stewart, Nestabilities, Fab New designs from K & Co and my all time fave Hero Arts!!!

Come along and say hello!

Centagraph Ltd

18 Station Parade

Harrogate

North Yorkshire

HG1 1UE

01423 566327

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Love Sarah xx

Sunday's Class

2010-05-24T08:38:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

What a lovely weekend? I love this nice sunny weather I do hope it's here to stay!!!

Here are a few snaps from my workshop yesterday at Samuel Taylor's Brighouse!

I had a ball! It's always quite scary going somewhere new, but I was made very welcome and had such a great time teaching the class.

Here are a couple of cards, the class was based on techniques using cuttlebug/die cutting. I mixed it with the lovely new(ish) collection from Bo Bunny called Jazmin. Also the New Tim Holtz Alterations Dies, with Metal foil, Indentz folders and Alcohol Inks.

Here are some of the lovely ladies who were on my class, again they were just great!

Soooooo looking forward to teaching there again! My next couple of classes over in Brighouse are in July! Martha Stewart and Distress Inks!

Anyway better get off and water my hanging baskets before my Nana rings to remind me!
Take care

Sarah xxx

Basic Ink Pad tutorial - For the lovely Ladies of Donegal

2010-05-21T05:32:00.000-07:00

Basic Ink Pad tutorial - For the lovely Ladies of Donegal

Versamark

Clear very sticky Ink for heat embossing, relief work, and watermark effect.
Great for Ultra Thick Embossing, Chalks and any medium needing a slow drying Ink.

**Can use in Card Making**

Comes in: Ink Pad, Re Inker, Small and Large Pads, Double Ended Pen, Clear Ink, Dazzle and Frost

Tools to use: Heat Embossing Tool, Stamps, Stamp Cleaner

Available From: Personal Impressions Stockists, visit http://www.personalimpressions.com/ for your nearest store.

Distress Ink Water based Dye ink for Stamping, water colouring, direct to paper & much more!
Acid-free non-toxic fade resistant water-based dye inks.

**Can use in Scrapbooking & Card Making**

Comes in: In Pads & Re Inkers, 36 Colours

Tools to use: Ink Blending tool, Cut & Dry & Foam, Water Brushes, Stamps, Non-Stick craft Sheet

Available From: Personal Impressions Stockists, visit http://www.personalimpressions.com/ for your nearest store.

Staz-On Black (& All Dark Colours) StazOn is a solvent-based inkpad designed for decorating non-porous surfaces such as glass, metal, shrink plastic, cellophane, aluminium foil, leather and acrylic.

**Can use in Card Making**

Comes In: Lots of different colours, Ink Pads and Re-Inkers available

Tools to Use: Staz-On Cleaner spray or original

Available From: Personal Impressions Stockists, visit http://www.personalimpressions.com/ for your nearest store.

Staz-On Opaque (like Cotton White)
StazOn is a solvent-based inkpad designed for decorating non-porous surfaces such as glass metal, shrink plastic, cellophane, aluminium foil, leather and acrylic.

**Can use in Card Making**

Comes In: Lots of different colours, Ink Pads WITH Re-Inkers NEW Metallic Colours available.
Tools to Use: Staz-On Cleaner spray or original

Available From: Personal Impressions Stockists, visit http://www.personalimpressions.com/ for your nearest store.

Mememto
Memento dye Ink Pad for Stamps is fast drying and fade resistant. The innovative pad delivers finer impressions and exceptionally even coverage

**Can Use in Card Making

Comes In: Lots of different Colours, available in regular sized Ink pads and mini Due Drop style

Tools to Use: A good Stamp Cleaner. Perfect with Pro-Markers and Copic Pens

Available From: Personal Impressions Stockists, visit http://www.personalimpressions.com/ for your nearest store.

Stampin Up Classic Ink Pads
Water based Dye ink for Stamping, water colouring, direct to paper & much more!
Acid-free non-toxic fade resistant water-based dye inks.

**Can use in Scrapbooking & Card Making**

Comes in: In regular size in Pads called Classic Ink Pads, Pens & Re Inkers, also available “Stampin Spots” Mini copies of the Classic, sold in colour collections from the “Stampin Up” Catalogue 48 Colours with occasional “In Colours” offers.

Tools to use: Ink Blending tool, Cut & Dry & Foam, Water Brushes, Stamps, Non-Stick craft Sheet

Hope this answers some of your questions, please email me if you have any more! I'm always happy to answer any questions (if I can) that you may have!

See you all again soon,

Love Sarah xxx

Making Cards Magazine June 2010

2010-05-21T02:16:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Here are the cards I have featured in this months Making Cards Magazine..............

for "dudes" everywhere using My Minds Eye papers, die cuts and Brads.

Love Sarah xx

Photo's from last weekend.....

2010-05-21T01:17:00.001-07:00

Here are some photos from last weekend...

More to follow soon.....

Love Sarah xxx

Home safe and Sound……………………

2010-05-20T00:44:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Photo’s to follow!

Well, we have had a fantastic weekend; the workshops went so well, we had a ball!
Saturday was a very busy day, with a mixture of beautiful Irish ladies and stunning Scottish “Wee Doll’s” who created beautiful cards, ate a delicious lunch (s) and chatted like it was going out of fashion!

Sunday was a demonstration for just 2 hours, but we could have stayed for double that time, doesn’t time fly when you are having fun?

The only hiccup; so to speak was that our flights were cancelled coming home on Monday due to the Volcanic Ash Cloud; as we were staying at Ewan’s Mum and Dad’s house we didn’t get too down about it as it meant another few days with kind, generous and loving family!

We love visiting family, as most of Ewan’s are dotted around the world literally! Scotland, London, Ireland, America! It’s always a very special time when we get together, it was Carol’s (Ewan’s mum) fault that I got into crafting in the first place! One time when I was over at the Ireland house, she suggested that we have a play with some punches, so then began my addiction!

Friday we had an unexpected addition to the weekend, THE parcel turned up! Can you believe it? So now the craft groups in St Johnston will have some kits to work through when they all get back together after the summer break.
On the way home from the Airport (Derry – Donegal) we popped in the see the lovely Mary McAnaney, who is a very dear friend to both Carol and I. We had a good old natter and a cup of tea with the addition of some rarther nice biscuits!
Mary is the demonstrator for ”Stampin Up” Ireland, so we got out the catalogues, looked at the lovely stamps, Inks and cardstock and wondered how we could possibly get the WHOLE catalogue!!!

On Sunday before the Demonstration Ewan, Carol, John and I went for lunch at a lovely restaurant called “BiddyFields” near Letterkenny, a lovely Sunday Carvery was devoured by all four of us. Delish!

The weekend was so much fun, I think all the ladies enjoyed themselves, and learnt a lot of new techniques using Rubber Stamps. Another weekend is in the planning for towards the end of the year! I’ll keep you posted.

So Sunday is fast approaching, it’s my first workshop as Samuel Taylor’s Brighouse.
It’s Cuttlebug and I have put in some of the new Tim Holtz Alterations Dies, yum yum.
Will post some samples soon!!!

Bye for now
Love Sarah xxx

Bags packed, tickets and Passport .... Check

2010-05-13T15:18:00.000-07:00

Evening All,
Just a quick post to let you all know that I'm off now for the Big Ireland workshop weekend! (above pic of the Resource Centre where I'll be teaching)

Flying over tomorrow lunch time to the "In Laws" and really looking forward to it. Cant wait to see Mum and Dad McC, and a certain Mary McAnaney and all the lovely ladies in St Johnstone and Carrigans!

So much hard work has gone into this weekend I'm keeping my fingers crossed that nothing else goes wrong!!! Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you, my parcel with all the prepared kits and some materials has gone missing, Parcel Force don't seem to know where it is???? It was posted on a 3 day service to The Republic of Ireland on the 4th May .... still not arrived, so I have spent two very long evenings re-design and prepping kits like a mad woman.

Poor Ewan he has been making tea every night this week (we usually take turns)
Anyway all re-done now, just gonna head off to bed I've an early start.
Will let you all know how it went when I get back Monday!
Till then have a lovely weekend!

Love Sarah xxx

Samuel Taylors Leeds

2010-05-10T01:52:00.000-07:00

Good Morning......

If you haven’t been to the Leeds store, you need to!
It is such a lovely store, its huge! One of the biggest independent craft shops I have ever been to. Fantastic lay out, jam packed full of all the latest in card making and scrapbooking goodies.
The staff were all so friendly, Sue the manager, was great too, we even enjoyed a cheeky cream cake with our lunch!

I had the great pleasure in working with the fantastic Nestablilities and NEW personal Impressions clear stamps. Along with my all time favourite brand Hero Arts. (See previous post for samples)
There were lots of great new products filling my desk; in particular I loved the new baby animals collection designed by Lindsay Mason, great for children’s cards! How cute is the Giraffe?

Anyway just a quick update on one of my upcoming classes... I am teaching a workshop on the 23rd May at Samuel Taylors in Brighouse. It’s working with the Cuttlebug, but you don’t need to own one to come on the class.
The cards we are making will be posted on here later this week.
10.00am – 4.00pm £25.00
Using different techniques and products, like Alterations, Grungepaper, Metal sheets, Inks and lots more.
To book a place please call the Brighouse store on (01484) 401419

Have a great Monday folks…..

Love Sarah xxx

Sneak Peeks ............

2010-05-07T13:13:00.000-07:00

Good Evening All,

Here are a couple of sneak peeks from some of the products I will be using tomorrow at Samuel Taylor's in Leeds.............

Hope so see you tomorrow....
Love Sarah xxx

Hero Arts Friends.................

2010-04-29T00:55:00.000-07:00

Good Morning,

Here are two of the stamp sets I am going to be working with next weekend at Samuel Taylor's in Leeds.

SPRING EXTRAVAGANZA
Saturday 8th May
10am 'til 4pm
Please come along and join us for a fantastic crafting day.

There are demonstrations on all day.

Hope to see you on Saturday!

Sarah x x

Saturday 8th May Samuel Taylors - Leeds

2010-04-23T00:21:00.000-07:00

Good Morning All,

Just wanted to let you know that I will be demonstrating at Samuel Taylor's Leeds Store on Saturday 8th May 2010.

Samuel Taylor's - Leeds Branch

Unit 2 Roseville Street

Leeds

LS8 5DU

T(0113) 2480044

I'll be working with some of the Brand New Nestabilities, Fantastic Hero Arts Stamps & Distress Inks, what a delicious sounding recipe?

Hope that you can make it?

See you soon,

Take Care

Sarah xx

More From Vintage Vogue

2010-04-21T01:07:00.000-07:00

Good Morning All,

Just loving the Vintage Vogue set from the New Mini Catalogue at the moment, here is a sneak peek at another from the collection of 6 cards, using the same colours and theme.

Got a thing about Baby Blue at the mo too!

Enjoy,

Love Sarah xx

Vintage Vogue

2010-04-20T03:14:00.000-07:00

Good Morning All,

Here is a card I made last night with the New Vintage Vogue Stamp Set.

It's such a lovely set, and works so well with the stampin around Very Vintage Jumbo wheel.

Materials Used:

Kraft Cardstock

Whisper White Cardstock

Blue American Crafts textured Cardstock - from PI stockists

Close to Cocoa Classic Ink Pad

Bashful Blue Classic Ink Pad

Brocade Blue Classic Inks Pad

Vintage Vogue Stamp Set

Very Vintage Stampin around handle

Take Care, Love Sarah xx

Making Card May 2010

2010-04-19T03:07:00.000-07:00

Good Morning All,

Just a quick post to let you all know that my latest Magazine Article is out now!

Making Cards May 2010

Beautiful Green and Purple Cards using Hero Arts Rubber Stamps, Martha Stewart Punches, Distress Inks and Glossy Accents, matched with lovely Basic Grey "Wisteria" Collection and Bazzill Cardstock!

All items are available from The Dawn Bibby Design Studio.
http://www.topazcrafts.tv/

Hope you like it?
Enjoy

Love Sarah

Greenhouse Garden

2010-04-06T11:25:00.000-07:00

Good Evening All,

Here is the first sample using the Greenhouse Garden Stamp Set from the Stampin Up Main Catalogue.

This is a two step stamping technique, I will later in the week post a mini tutorial using my current favorate set "A Rose is a Rose"

List Of Materials for "Thinking of You" in Blue:

Greenhouse Garden Stamp Set 113824 £22.95 set of 10

Whisper White Cardstock 109899 £5.50 40 sheets

Bashful Blue Cardstock either 24 sheets £4.50 110056 or in a multi pack 109896 36 sheets £6.75 (soft subtles)

Recommended Ink Pads:

Bashful Blue £4.25 110056

Brocade Blue £4.25 110062

Creamy Caramel £4.25 110067

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to leave a comment.

Until next time,

Sarah xxx

Grunge Paper & Distress Inks

2010-04-01T09:38:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick card I wanted to share with you.

This is using the Tim Holts Grungepaper, Distress Inks and the new Friends definition stamp from Hero Arts.

All products are available from the Dawn Bibby Design Studio.

http://www.topazcrafts.tv/

Faded Jeans, Spiced Marmalade, Peeled Paint & Walnut Stain

Tim Holtz Trinket Pins

Friends Definition Cling Stamp by Hero Arts

A project sheet of this card is available also, send me an email and I will email it back to you!

ewanmccrossan@talktalk.net

Thanks

Love Sarah xxx

Making Cards Magazine & NEC

2010-03-31T02:41:00.000-07:00

Good Morning All,

After an extremely busy weekend at the NEC, I am pleased to be home. Ewan is now home too, he's been in Edinburgh white water rafting and visiting family!

The NEC was great, I was demonstration my Fave ink pads, Tim Holtz Distress, Crafty Individual Stamps and Dereamweaver stencils with Guilding flakes and glitter, we had such a laugh myself, Hazel and Paul from Go Create was literally bent over giggling at poor David's expense - who is glued to his iPhone scrolling up and down endlessley trying to find our way to the resturant!!!

Anyway.........Just landed through my door yesterday was the latest edition of Making Cards Magazine, which I am pleased to say has TWO articles in by me!

One is in the Made for Men section using the fab Hero Arts Flower Brocade Background Stamp, mixed with Distress Inks and White Embossing Powder! Yummy!

Stamps, Ink Pads and The Embossing Powder are all available from the Dawn Bibby Design Studio

http://www.topazcrafts.tv/

The Second article, using Spellbinders Nestabilities Blossom 1 and Dehlia building blooms, using Bloom and Grow collection from my minds eye.

You can locate the dies from Personal Impressions Stockists and the Collection Pack is from The Dawn Bibby Design Studio.

If you have a copy of this magazine, please feel free to leave any comments, here on my blog. Love to know what you think of them?

Untill next time,

Love Sarah xxx

NEC Birmingham this weekend

2010-03-23T06:42:00.000-07:00

Good Morning All,

Just wanted to let you all know that I will be demonstrating at the Craft Show held at the NEC this weekend.

I'll be working with Rangers Distress Ink's and getting messy.

Do pop by to say hello!

Love Sarah xxx

Tommorrows Class

2010-03-19T13:02:00.000-07:00

Good Evening All,

Just back from my trip to London, have been down in our capital this week attending a conference for work.

I couldn't believe how much warmer it was down south. I stayed at the Hilton on Edgware road W2 and it was fab. Not much time for sightseeing but, hey it was work! Did manage and hour chatting to my Brother-In-Law Eamon who is posted Near Buckingham Palace, her are all very proud of him, now he is a Scots Guardsman.....

Anyway here is a sneaky peek at some of the card we will be making in tomorrows class.

Spring lemons and creams.................

Also looking forward to a day with the girls at the Harrogate paper crafts show....... must be good must be good........................

Love Sarah xxx

Workshop in Ireland

2010-03-11T02:29:00.000-08:00

Good Morning all,

I have now set a date for my 1st 2010 weekend workshops in Ireland.

Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th May 2010

The Resource Centre

St Johnstone

Co Donegal

Eire

For details please email me on ewanmccrossan@talktalk.net

The Autumn workshop dates will be published in June.

Love Sarah xxx

Cards for Kids

2010-02-19T11:19:00.000-08:00

Hello,

Just another quick note. I have my third article out this week in Making Cards Magazine http://www.magmaker.co.uk/

I'ts simple but so cute for all the little boys in our life!

The article is called Cards for Kids and all materials are available from Personal Impressions stockists.

Enjoy,

Love Sarah xx

Saturday's Class

2010-02-19T10:54:00.000-08:00

Good Evening All,

Thought I'd pop a few sneaks on from tomorrows workshop I'm teaching at the Dawn Bibby Design Studio.

Thank you to everyone who has send an email asking about my Mum, she's doing great thank you every so much for your kind well wishes!

Love Sarah xxx

Edinburgh

2010-02-09T04:27:00.000-08:00

Good Afternoon everyone,

I firstly must apologies for the lack of postings recently. As many of my friends know my Mum has not been too well recently, as she was diagnosed with Breast Cancer just before Christmas, I have been spending allot of time with her and the rest of my family.

Anyway she is doing really well and has had 2 operations and is now waiting for a date for Radiotherapy.

***

Last weekend was spent in the beautiful city of Edinburgh, as many of you know Ewan my husband is from Edinburgh and has lots of family members still in the city.

We go up quite often to see family, watch the football (HIBS) and take in the shopping in both princess street and the old town's Royal Mile.

Here are a few snaps of our adventures........

This is in the old town, I adore the city and have read many books on its history!

This is the famous Jenner's department store on the equally famous Princess Street, one of my favourite shops.

This is the new town again, but with Georgian period buildings my favorite hotel is on this street.

Anyhow, got some beautiful projects to share with you, so will post again later in the week!

Take Care Love Sarah xxx

Well Don Dominique....

2010-01-14T12:26:00.001-08:00

Evening All,

Real quick post tonight as I'm in the middle of................... prepping Sunday's Workshop at the DB Design Studio, Designing Cards for Magazine Articles and help with TSV prep! Phew!

Anyway one of my "little" sisters Dominique has taken her GCSE exams really early and has passed with all B's!

So worth a mention, I'm so proud of her.....

Love Sarah xxx

1 place left..................

2010-01-09T08:06:00.000-08:00

Good Afternoon,

Just a quick post to let you know that I have one space left on my workshop next Sunday 17th January 2010.

The theme is Love, and I have designed cards using the beautiful new range from Bo Bunny called Persuasion, it's so yummy!

Also something for the boys, some funky cards using Lime Green and steel Blue and K & Company's Lotus collection of papers.

Sneaks later,

Love Sarah xxx

Classes at The Dawn Bibby Design Studio..... Sneeks

2010-01-02T06:56:00.000-08:00

Good Afternoon peeps,

Hope that you all had a wonderful Christmas and a super New Year? I know it's been really nice spending time with family!

Anyway it's about time I did some crafting....

I have been playing today trying new products and papers for my monthly classes held at the Dawn Bibby Design Studio.

Here are a few sneaks using the delicious bo bunny Flutter Butter collection of papers it's really lovely Blues, Creams and Greens with a hint of chocolate brown Yum Yum!!!!

Here is a card inspired by Shari Carrol from Hero Arts. Really neat idea using "Inches" she's a beautiful designer.

Shari will be at Dawn's in the new year so do book on one of her classes if you can.

Take Care

Love Sarah xxx

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T15:26:00.001-08:00

Sex and The City 2.............. Roll on May 28th .....

2009-12-30T05:30:00.000-08:00

My New Fav stamp.............

2009-12-28T13:49:00.000-08:00

................... and guess what it's a Hero Arts................... Design Block!

S5264 Antique Flower Background.

Please check out the Personal Impressions Website for stockists near you.

Anyway here is a quick tutorial for a shabby background using this impressive stamp.

You will need:

Hero Arts Antique Flower Background stamp S5264

Tim Holtz Distress Inks, Broken China, Faded Jeans and Walnut stain.

Ranger Mini Mister or Water bottle

White Linen Card

1. Ink up the stamp will all three colours of Inks, starting with the lightest colour first

2. Spray the stamp lightly with water

3. Stamp your background onto the linen card. Make sure you press down firmly all over the image as it is a large stamp.

4. Your background image is complete.

Check out the March issue of "Making Cards Magazine" for a series of cards for men using this stamp.

Enjoy,

Love Sarah xxx

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T10:42:00.001-08:00

Evening Everyone,

Just wanted to wish everybody a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Thank you to all my regular class attendants, blog readers and friends, may I wash you all the very best for 2010.

Looking forward to crafting with you next year.

With lots of Love Sarah xxx

New Hero Arts Catalog

2009-12-22T01:46:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone, OMG how excited am I?

The new Hero Arts Catalog is now out, go to the Hero Blog to download a online version.

I am gonna have to save, save, save for the next few weeks there are so many new stamp designs in both cling and wood mounted that I NEED!!!!!

Here's a few to tempt you....

Wowzers... Catch you later

Love Sarah xxx

New Distress Colours Ink Pads............ Dawn & JJ's Christmas Party

2009-12-21T04:35:00.001-08:00

Good Morning Everyone

What a weekend?

It first Started off with Eamon McCrossan's Passing out parade, we were all so very proud if him. It was a lovely day and ended with a meal at the Royal Phoenix in Oswaldtwistle, the meal was great.

Friday was our first Christmas Day, as many of you know we have 2 Christmas Day's every year, one with Ewan's Family (usual in Ireland) and one with mine here in Oswaldtwistle.

This year we had Eamon, Mum and Dad and Mini Egg (Erin) all at our house for a fantastic weekend.

Topped off by a smashing party at Dawn and JJ's house. I missed last years party, so this year I took Mini Egg and we had a right giggle. Dawn and JJ are such good hosts, they looked after us so well.

Now then, I was looking at Tim's Blog and guess what...... well as many of you know I LOVE all the distress inks and have all the CURRENT colours....... well 12 new colours are going to be launched new year. This is what they look like.

My first purchase will be the Crushed Olive green I think. Just one problem - I have the Distress Ink metal holder, and I can't fit any more in, DOH!!!!!!!

Check out Tim's Blog for other new TH products released 2010!

Catch you all later

Love Sarah xxxx

For Sale................

2009-12-13T14:59:00.000-08:00

Just a quick one

I have a set of the new Christmas Borders embossing folders by cuttlebug for sale, I purchased these and have had a go and found they are really not for me.

I have the receipt but have chucked away the packaging so I can't take them back for a refund.

They RRP at about £10.00, and they are brand new so I am looking for £7.50 + £1.00 p & p

Drop me a line on the below email address is you are interested, (or leave me a comment) it will be on a first come first served basis. I take payment by paypal and will send them first class.

ewanmccrossan@talktalk.net

Love Sarah xxx

Busy Old Weekend......................

2009-12-13T14:48:00.000-08:00

Good Evening everyone,

After spending a day working at the Dawn Bibby Design Studio on Saturday you would think I was going to give myself a break today, well no such luck.

First it was Christmas shopping, then ironing, then sat at the computer typing card instructions for magazine articles!

It has just been non stop since I came back from Ireland.

I have a really busy week at work lined up too, I am launching a 2010 calendar for my safety scheme, using hand drawn images from School Children in Blackburn with Darwen, so a launch party on Tuesday and still needs lots of organising!

Anyway back to cards, here are some cards that I have been selling this year, I have to say not many people have managed to order from me as I have been so busy, just my Nana, and a few work colleagues who have been on bended knee for a few sets. I don't know.

Anyway I only have 3 packs of 5 left, so I think I'm gonna use these for some of my dear crafting friends...............

I have some nice designs to share with you soon, so keep your eyes peeled this week.

Take Care

Love Sarah xxx

L'Occitane Hand Cream

2009-12-10T01:42:00.000-08:00

Morning Everyone,

Here is just a quick post, I have just purchased yesterday a tube of hand cream from L'Occitane, and as many of you know I have very dry skin and in particular on my hands due to eczema.

I am currently battling, as the cold weather is so harsh and the steroid creams do get unbearable.

However I have found a miracle cream.

Its only £16.50 for 150ml and to me it's worth £0000. Already after just a few applications my hands are looking loads better, and they smell nice too!

It's worth a try!

Love Sarah xxx

Workshops and updates.....

2009-12-09T10:21:00.000-08:00

Good Evening everyone,

Sorry I have been AWOL for the past week, but this time of year seems to be non stop!

Here are are a few snaps from my workshop last weekend, we did have some fun as well as getting down to the very serious business of making 7 cards.

In between scoffing Ewan's Chocolate Brownies and Dorothy's delicious Carrot cake, we did manage the do the job in hand and learn some new techniques and have a play with new Bo Bunny Papers and Hero Arts Stamps......

As modled by the Lovely Margret, my beautiful new scarf handmade by Dee Pilling, I love it!

I've got a really busy week ahead too, not only is it Eamon's Passing out parade on the 17th December, but then we will have Ewan's Mum, Dad, Brother & one of his sisters Erin coming down to stay with us!

On top of that I still need to do some Christmas Shopping, visit Nana and Granddad, See Uncle Chris and Aunt Babs plug work full time and decorate the living room.......... I just don't know where I am.

Anyway hope your all working hard on your Christmas cards, I know I am - tonight I need to finish off an order for my Nana!

So Take Care, promise I'll do the You Tube Demo this weekend!!!!

Love Sarah xx

Christmas Card's for Moi.

2009-11-25T09:28:00.000-08:00

Good Evening everyone,

After designing Christmas Cards for workshops, residential weekends and Magazine Articles, you would have thought that I would be sick of them........ but no I have really enjoyed designing my own Christmas Cards for this year.

Here is one of the designs.

It's using Penny Black's Fantasy tree stamp as the focal image, stamped using Mellow Moss ink and textured card from Stampin Up! The background is Hero Arts Holly Swirl design block, again using Mello Moss Ink and card, the patterned paper is from Making Memories, red bazzil punched using Stampin Up's scalloped edger punch, and finally a touch of green satin ribbon from my collection.

I will be uploading the video of this card on to you tube some stage this week.

Dinner time now so catch you later,

Sarah xxx

And breath…………………. & Making Cards Magazine

2009-11-23T09:07:00.000-08:00

I went back to work today for a rest, after the hectic but fun weekend residential with Dawn and the team.
It was just great, we had a ball and I am sure everyone who attended had a great time too?

Working the weekend after a busy week in my “real” with the NHS can sometimes be hard and very tiring, but working with a nice bunch of people makes it a joy! Although the rest of Dawn's Team worked flat out all week to help get things preped and organised before the weekend!

I was working alongside the lovely Amy Shaw (Dawn’s Niece wwwsimplicityinscrapping.blogspot.com) on Saturday which I thoroughly enjoyed and next to Gill and the fabulous Lindsay Mason on Sunday!

Always a pleasure to meet up with the delicious Paula Pascual, any opportunity to have a chin wag and swap crafting tips and Ideas!!!

This is the card I designed for the technique day on Sunday, using my favourite Hero Art’s Stamps.

Mixed with Nestabilities Labels 8 to make the card base and paper matt.
Products available at the Dawn Bibby Design Studio, or check out the “Personal Impressions” website for stockists near you!

I met some really great people during the weekend, Julie Hickey who designs for Craftwork Cards, was one of the tutors for the weekend, and guess who else turned up and did a bit of crafting with us……………… Craig Rowe, presenter from QVC and his lovely friend Angel joined us and had a lovely time.

As well as new friends like Melanie Marsh, Tina, Nicola, Miriam and Hilli, I was so happy to see many familiar faces too, Sylvie and Amanda, Sue Brown x 2, and many, many more……

Now then on to some great news for me I have just had my very first article published in Making Cards Magazine, December 2009 issue.
The cards in the article I designed quite a while ago now, but they are really lovely yet so simple to make.
Please look out for some really beautiful designs soon to be published in the next edition of Making Cards.

I haven’t forgotten about some blog candy, I will get photos and blog again later tonight.

Also later this week I am going to run a Ink Pad Tutorial, (my suggestions and preferences) so if your new to stamping or just wanted some hints and tips about certain types or brands of ink pads, check out later.
If you have any questions please leave a comment on here and I will add to my tutorial.

Take care, Love Sarah xxx

Dawn Bibby's Residential Weekend

2009-11-18T05:09:00.000-08:00

Hello Blogger's,

Wow the days are just whizzing by, no sooner have I just had my November Workshop than I'm getting ready for Dawn's BIG residential weekend.

It's this Saturday and Sunday at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel, 72 crafters will be along sampling the delights that dawn and her team have come up with.

On Sunday it's make and take day, where all the tutors have their own designed project to teach. My design is using one of the new Hero Arts Cling stamps, Basic Grey Papers, Inks and gems.

Looking forward to seeing some of the ladies from last time, I know Sylvie is coming, now I wonder if Baby giraffe from Dublin will be attending too? (Hope so)

We'll have a smashing time. Will take my camera and take some great snaps to post on here!

Anyway lots to do.

Oh watch out for a Blog Candy give away starting this weekend!!!!

See you soon

Love Sarah xxx

So much to tell you, so little time..... Workshops in Ireland

2009-11-13T00:33:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone,

And what a nice crisp morning it is too?

Just back from holiday had a lovely time and had a fab birthday, Ewan treated me to a Pandora bracelet with 4 beads, I really love the Mariano class beads.

Ewan's Mum, Carol trimmed the house with girly pink balloons and banners and we had Chocolate Cake!!!

On Monday evening last week we payed a visit to Mary McAnally who lives just outside St Johnstone, (Co. Donegal Ireland) and has a nice cuppa and a show round her beautiful and FULL craft room, what a nice lady!

Back to work and back to planning this Sunday's workshop.

I have really enjoyed using some vintage style Christmas papers from the new Making Memory's Christmas line, it's so cute with tiny little birds, also a fab new stamp from Hero Arts Holly Swirls Design Block (of course one of my classes would not be complete without the obligatory Hero Arts stamp now would it???)

Also in my class is a little triple embossing, Nestabilities and lots of fun and cake!

Will post a photo or two later today.

Also if there are any blogging peeps over in the Donegal area of Eire I am planning to do a two day workshop at the St Johnstone Resource Centre early spring 2010, at this stage it is only in the planning, but please drop me a line if you would like to register interest. More details comming soon....

See you soon,

Love Sarah xxx

Making Smiles on Faces Award

2009-11-01T11:44:00.000-08:00

Well I have been passed this on from Lindsay Mason, I will pass on to 5 other blogger and tell you 5 interesting faces about me! (although I am not the most interesting person in the world)

1. I was taught to play Tennis by non other than Fred Perry himself and attended his 80th (or was is 70th) birthday party as his guest in Berlin!

2. I have lived in Germany and Cyprus as a child, and only moved to England when I was 13 years old, while I lived in Berlin I attended a School trip to witness the Wall coming down !!!

3. I was first introduced into card making in 2004 by mother-in-law Carol McCrossan.

4. I played Badminton for Lancashire as a teenager and attended trials for the England under 21 team, but did not make it!

5. I was in the Army Cadets and was the best markswoman in 1996 for Lancashire again under 21's!

All rather boring stuff I know, but hey all true!

Now for passing them on......
1. Jan Bloomfield - PI
2. Mandy Carter, a great friend of mine
3. Eily McCrossan, one of my sisters in-Law
4.Est http://crafti-n-est.blogspot.com/
5. My darling Ewan, he always make me smile!

Take Care
Love Sarah (packing I have just upped the anti) xxx

The Demo Day,

2009-11-01T10:33:00.000-08:00

Good Evening All,

Here are some of the photos from my demo day yesterday at the DB design studio.

We had a great day, I was working with the new Christmas Cuttlebug embossing folders and the New Christmas collections from Craftworkcards.

I was set next to the fantastic and very talented Jane, who was working with the Melt pot, UTEE and Crafty Individuals stamps, right behind me was the lovey Lindsay Mason, who was up to her usual "tricks" with Ranger Inks, and some of Tim's new stamps.

Jane

UTEE

Lindsay Mason
some of the Lovely Lindsay's samples.................... yum yum!!

Also on our table was the fabulous Jo who was working with some clear stamps, Stamp and Bond and gilding flakes.

It was so lovely to meet a few of you and have a good old natter for a change.

Anyway better get a move on, we are on holiday from tomorrow and will be with Ewan's Mum and Dad in Ireland for a week (not even packed yet) and I have a magazine article deadline to meet for first thing tomorrow too - eck!

So good night everyone,

Take care

Love Sarah xxx

Tomorrow...... at the DB Design Studio

2009-10-30T10:26:00.000-07:00

Good Evening All,

Just to let you all know that I will be demonstrating at the Dawn Bibby Design Studio tomorrow.

The lovely Lindsay Mason will be showcasing her own rubber stamp designs, along side Mary, Brenda and Jane.

I will be working with the latest Cuttlebug Christmas Embossing folders, and craftwork cards Joy and Candy Cane Christmas collection packs, yum yum!

Hope you could pop in and say hello!!

Love Sarah xx

Saturday's Class.....

2009-10-25T14:29:00.000-07:00

Good Evening Everyone,

I am a wee bit tired tonight, so here are a few photo's from Saturday's Class.

We had a fab day, and I had a great evening too with the lovely Jane who stayed at my house, we chatted all night long while tucking into a Chinese take away, and watching Strictly come dancing and X factor!

Will fill you in on the latest from Thumper tomorrow.

Sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite!

Love Sarah xx

Here I am.....

2009-10-25T14:25:00.000-07:00

mmmm, my carrot.....

yum, yum, yum!!!

See you later, love Thumper!! xx

Thumper..............

2009-10-23T14:46:00.000-07:00

Good Evening,

Just a quick post while I am prepping tomorrows class at the Dawn Bibby Design Studio, we have a beautiful, yet fury little house guest tonight, yes this is "Thumper" the rabbit who I found wandering around my garden earlier this evening, I took him in and tried on a few doors to see if he/she? belonged to anybody??? Well no owners as yet!

Will try again tomorrow after my class, so in the meanwhile he is living in our guest bathroom complete with a makeshift bed, using an old cardboard box and some old tea-towels.

If anybody has any advise on looking after rabbits please do post, I am not too hot on this topic.

If no luck with potential owners I'll try the RSPCA and see what they say, he may be micro chipped? If not we might have a new addition to the family.

He is just the cutest!

Night All,

Love Sarah xxx

More Photo's of Samples - Nestabilities......

2009-10-15T12:15:00.000-07:00

Evening everyone,

Here's a few more samples using products from Personal Impressions (details in my previous post).....

Nestabilities Blossom 1, Blossom 2, labels six, Labels five, ................

Love these colours from the my minds eye paper pad, available from Samuel Taylor's.....

This is labels eight, using it for a lovely card base, mixed with the fab Winterberry papers and hero arts Christmas messages sets.

This is the stamp set Holly Christmas PICS044 designs by Kirsty Wiseman for personal impressions

Catch you later.

Love Sarah xxx

This weekend............

2009-10-15T03:01:00.001-07:00

Good Morning everyone,

Here are a few samples using some of the products I will be working with this weekend at Samuel Taylor's.

Winterberry paper pad from ATD and lovely dimensional stickers.

Again (above) Winterberry ATD papers and stickers.

Below, using the fab clear set of stamps from Personal Impressions they are designed by Marion Emberson, and they are called "Tis the season" Stock Code No: PICS026

Mixed Hero Arts Clings with Spellbinders and Jack Frost stickers and words from the "Tis the season" set.

All these products are available from Personal Impressions.

Come and see me at the weekend for loads more scrummy samples and get your hands on some of these fab samping kits!

Hope to see you at the weekend, for directions please email me on ewanmccrossan@talktalk.net

Love Sarah xxx