All about Flowers Today. Day 13 Advent Calendar Offers.

Hi Everyone. Today is all about flowers. Flowers have always been the most popular for any card or project. There are so many flowers that you can make, they make a difference on a card whether they're flat, decoupaged or in full 3D. Todays Advent offer is a real treat, there are 4 sets of stamps included in the advent offer today, all single so you have a choice of 1 set or all of them. All of them are only 9.99, it's worth mentioning that they are big stamp sheets, not just A5. There are lots of projects below, all made with the Craftascope Range. 

First is a very plain gift or presentation box, which has been decorated to make it something extra special. They are thoroughly enjoyable to make, goodness know how much you would pay in the shops for a hand made decorated box to this standard. This has used a selection of different sized roses made using the rose Petals, these are very low in stock, there are less than 5 remaining. The large Rose petals are a perfect companion set for Rose Makers or anyone wanting to start, you can make so many more sizes and blooms. They are also on a half price offer, but it is ending tonight. The Advent offers from the last few day have all been left on but will be removed tomorrow ready for Day  14, so do take advantage of anything that is available today.

Next moving onto the Floral Companions set, this is an absolute must for every crafter. These are constantly out as I use them on so many cards and projects. I used dies from the collection to decorate the card below, I have video for these, although they really are very simple and take seconds to make. I've also used the small Rose petal dies to make small white roses. The set also contains a selection of leaves which are needed for so many projects. The separate stamp and dies are not on offer but the pair are as they are designed to be used together and have 40% off.

Next is a seasonal Cracker box and Crackers, the decoration was made with dies from the Floral Companions Stamp & Die Set, explained above. As I said the set is a real go to collection, it has a wide variety of leaves and blooms to use on all of your floral cards and projects.

The project below is also made with the same set again, showing how versatile they are, the look is changed completely just by altering the colour used. The colour really can change the look of any bloom you decide to add to your creation.

Lastly, here is a project using the Chrysanthemum Die Set, this is a marvelous collection of 4 dies, you can create a variety of blooms using these and very easily and quickly. I usually cut a selection of sizes and colours and spend an evening shaping them all. Then the following day make them up ready for using in decorating or adding to a vase. These have been demonstrated on one of my YouTube Videos. I have added it below for you to see. Please be aware, this is the last stock I have and it won't be brought back again. It has never lasted a show, even when adding extended stock. So please get them, especially while they are at such an amazing offer, They have never been reduced to such a low price.

I shared a photo last night of one of the biggest blooms I have ever made, It is a real stunner and once you know how to make a rose, these are so simple to make, they really are. The most important step of making any flower is spending the time shaping the petals, don't skimp on the time taken for this stage. There are lost of videos on my YouTube Channel to show you and I am sure I will add more. Below are a couple of projects made with the Retro Leaves Die Set, this is just 2, there are so many other ways of using them, they have made super strawberries and all sorts of things, as always there are videos on my YouTube Channel to give you more inspiration.

I hope that you will take advantage of the amazing prices on the store and the generous offers today. It is Christmas and I know everyone has had the most dreadful year, either socially financially or both and hopefully we can now see a little bit of light at the end of the tunnel. If you read my Heartfelt post on Day 6,you will know how much I have struggled through this year as well. It has been incredibly difficult for me, but I really don't want to close Craftascope, I have tried with every bone in my body to get through and now I am asking for you all to add your support, if you possible can. If everyone just added a small order, even the pick n mix of stencils, it really would make all the difference.

I have 3 collections on Paper that I would do anything to share with you next year, but it's not looking promising. Every single purchase will make a difference, however small. Take care and Happy Crafting.xx

Regal Rose & Splinters In Time- 2 Unbeatable offers and Day 12 Advent Calendar Offers

Morning My Friends. I mentioned in a quick post last night about the offer on The 'Regal Rose' collection. There's also a similar offer on the Splinters in Time collection. In the Regal Rose Collection, there are 3 large Stamp Sheets,  Everything you could want to create a variety of floral cards. The stamps were chosen to give the best value and include elements for instant cards or a variety of smaller stamps to create your own beautiful designs. The Splinters In Time Collection, is another, very different collection, a  large main stamp to use as a platform for the included stamps, Scenes in Time and Lush Landscapes, they work perfectly together and were designed to be used together or as stand alone stamps.

I realise that not everyone will want the collection and might prefer to purchase single items, I have discounted the Collection as much as possible to encourage people to use the set together as it gives the most variety. The main Splinters in Time set is perfect to use with absolutely anything, I cant think of any image that wouldn't be completely at home surrounded by it, giving a frame for whatever you decide to use with it.

The 'Scenes in Time' was the first in a series of stamp sets that will work perfectly within the 'Wall' or as independent stamped images. There are a variety of scenes in the set, which can all be used for all seasons, depending on your colour choice. They look great using any colouring medium, especially watercolour. A simple stamped image water coloured can be used as a card topper or as a framed piece of art, whatever your decision they make super cards and projects. Do visit the Youtube Channel for inspiration, for all of the collections and individual items.

Today on the store there are a lot of offers, I have left the offers from the last few days in the store so you have some ore choice. Today I have added the Extension Rose Petal Dies, these are wonderful coupled with the Rose Petal dies, to make the most beautiful roses, in whatever size you would like. The larger sizes do give a lot more scope and are not just for roses either, they make lovely Peony's. Setting flowers aside though, they make great Junk Journals, regular journals, shaped cards, and apertures to name a few uses. They are certainly not a 'One Trick Pony' so will earn their place in your craft stash. Here are a couple made with the rose Petals and the Extension rose petal dies, on offer today with 50% off, be quick if you want them. I have video on my YouTube Channel with a link at the top of the blog.

Don't forget to join in with the Craftascope December Giveaway, There are 3 prizes, each for 100 Pounds to spend at the Craftascope Store and all you have to do is share any project made with Craftascope goodies. Full details are on this poster, it would be great to see your creations.

Also when your in the store, keep a look out for the Daily Hidden Prize, Simple add a note to your order form and the item will be added to your order. Good luck.

Thank you ever so much for your support, every single sale will help. I really do want to continue with Craftascope, If you've not read my last few blog posts, please take a look. Your support could really make the difference. Craftascope and all of my Customers have really been a lifeline for me and kept me going. If I do keep going I am sure you will love what I have to bring in the future.x

A glimpse of Life in Bulgaria, A request for your support

Hi Everyone, I hope you are all doing okay, keeping safe and well. I know it's been a difficult time for so many, especially for those in flats or no outside area. We all miss seeing friends and family,won't it be wonderful to finally see them again. Im fairly used to not going out too much, so for me it's not been a huge difference and I am so lucky to have a large outside space. A lot of you will know I love roses and this year they have put on an amazing display. Especially this one, It's called Zephrine Drouin and has a wonderful scent.

I have to say it is a very different story when you are told to stay in,when the choice isn't your own you can immediately feel trapped. One of the things I really miss, has been coming over to the UK and my visits to Hochanda. My visits there have always been so uplifting, I am always made to feel so welcome. 

I ventured into the village square yesterday so I could share some of it with you. It's deserted, apart from the weeds slowing making an appearance between the paving. I am sure they will be cleared away soon and the villagers will soon come back, bringing life to the center again.

After my last post about the lockdown a couple of people said they were disappointed that I hadn't shared what it was like here, I didn't think anyone would be interested but here is a little about how it's been. There's been a huge difference in the way the lockdown has been implemented here and the way people have reacted to it over the weeks. Back in January, even before there was anything official, people were acting on their own initiative, the supermarkets were sanitizing trolleys and giving hand gel to each customer before they entered the shop,other than that life was still very normal.

By the beginning of Feb they were limiting the number of customers in the store, only 50 at a time and then it was one in and one out. Up to the end of Feb it had been changes made by the supermarkets and distancing that kept the numbers low, these little changes were still before anything official. I heard that by the 25th Feb the Bulgarian Government had installed thermal cameras in all of the Airports, Land and Sea Ports.

In the village, there is a little shop/bar, I can only describe it as being similar to a small corner shop in the UK with a bar attached. I took a photo to give you an idea. This had to shut when the bars restaurants had to shut.

There's also a square in the center, a lovely peaceful place and even swings and a slide for the Children. The large building is a community restaurant/bar where we can all get together for meals. It's especially great at Christmas and New Year when there's dancing, singing, quizzes and lots of prizes. It's always a lovely atmosphere when everyone gets together.

At the beginning of March Wizz Air stopped all flights to and from Italy & Israel. Herein Bulgaria they started disinfecting all trains and buses etc. At the same time cinemas,theaters, schools & shops closed.I was still hoping to come back to the UK, then on March 16th Boris Johnson gave the advice to Stay at Home and social distance, but at this time is was voluntary so I was so pleased that I could still travel. I actually thought it would have been the safest time,with many people staying in.

Looking at the news & pictures being shared on thee news and online, I was surprised at how many people weren't taking and notice of the advice given, the supermarket photos were shocking,from an outsider looking in and knowing what it was like here, many people just couldn't believe what they were seeing. It wasn't surprising  that the stricter measures were put in place the following week. Obviously it was a very small percentage,but sadly it spoilt it for the wider population. I have no idea why people act so differently here, but the public were great with the social distancing even before measures were put in place. I forgot to add earlier in this post, they have been adding some new seating in the  Village square, around the edge. They will be lovely to sit in and enjoy drinks and friendship.

This is where I would like to ask for some support for something I feel really strongly about. Last Wednesday part of the Agriculture Bill was voted down. This was the part that was to safeguard and protect Farmers,Crofters and Food Producers across the whole of thee United Kingdom. I have prepared a petition for the Government and they are looking at it as I type. The petition is to ask for assurance that all imported produce meets at least the same standards in the UK. It's the very least we should expect. Why should we import food and choose to eat food that falls way below the UK standard.

It seemed very strange to me that there was no mention of the Bill in any of the news, considering it's a huge change. UK farmers should not be put at a disadvantage by allowing sub standard imports. I need 21 Signatures at this stage for it to be reviewed before I can share it more widely. Over the next few days, I am going to provide further information,for now I would really appreciate the support for this very important issue. There's no point having World Leading Standards in the UK, If we don't expect Trade Partners to have at least the same standards in Animal Welfare, Food Safety, Quality and Environmental Issues. The petition will stop accepting names at 21, to be reviewed. We still have time to make a difference and support the UK, Details of my Petition are below, these are not showing until it's been reviewed Click this link to sign the petition:

https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/321419/sponsors/new?token=CbNoHlVRd0ixYwIoroXC

My petition:

Assure us the UK Agriculture Bill will protect the UK’s Food & Farming Sector.

We need assurances that The Agriculture Bill will not be made law without legislation to ensure Agri-food imports are produced to at least the equivalent of those required by Farmers & Food Producers across the UK.They must not be put at a disadvantage,by allowing sub standard imports.

This important bill will be the foundation of the UK’s Food & Farming policy. Food standards must must be protected in any and all Trade Deals. We need a Cast Iron promise from the Government that all of these future imports are produced to at least the equivalent environmental, animal welfare & food safety standards as those required across the United Kingdom. To do otherwise will put the sector at a huge disadvantage. We're building ourselves a better future.Why should we accept anything less.

I know I am really looking forward to the day we are all safe and free to see Friends & Family, Children, Grandchildren and Parents. Until that day comes, we will have to keep each other positive. Like I always say, Im here and feel free to get in touch, I always love to hear your stories. Take care and Stay Safe.xxx

Lots of News, Black Friday Weekend event and Much More

Hello Friends and Crafters. Im sure many of you will agree that it's always nice to get home. Well I am back home again, although I had a wonderful time, it's always great to get back home. I've been having a few days rest, there's a lot to sort out before the winter arrives. The flight home was great, I got my first photo from the plane as well. I am really excited that I can join in the Black Friday Event this year, something that just wasn't possible last year. Keep your eyes on the 'Craftascope Etsy Store' (link above) for some great offers and 50% savings.

It's hard to explain, but I was quite sad to lose a couple of items from my range, It had taken me over 9 months to bring back the ATC Die set, so it was sad to see it sell out again on Hochanda, even though I know the people that managed to secure the set will have great fun. Some of the items in the sale are very limited so if there's something you want to add to your Craftascope Library, please don't miss out.

As promised, I will soon be adding more videos to my Youtube Channel. If there is anything at all that you would like me to cover or go into more detail, then please add these to the most recent video, in the comments section and I will include them at the next available opportunity. I was so pleased to see that there were still roses blooming when I got back home and Grace, enjoying the sunshine too.

Last piece of news, I will be running a 'Design Team' Call over the next few days so please keep your eyes peeled, if you're interested. A little photo here of one of the teddies I made, I promised I would add it as son as I found one.

For now Take care and Happy Crafting.xxx

Introducing Magda To the Craftascope Design Team, New Giveaway & A WINNER

Morning Friends and Crafters. Today I have a lot to share with you, A Giveaway Winner & Details of the New Giveaway. But First I'm really excited to Introduce you all to Magda. Magda is one of the wonderful new additions to the Craftascope Design Team, I know you will all join me in welcoming her into the family. Here is what she would like to say along with her photo and some of her creations.

Hi! My Name is Magdalena, but friends call me Magda. Crafting has been my passion for several years. I live with my Family in Luxembourg. I like Paper, paint and have fun - it's a great combination.

Favourite style is vintage and I love paper and foam flowers. I like trying all techniques. Thank you Nick for the opportunity to be part of the Craftascope project team.

Thank you ever so much Magda, It's really great to have you on the team, I know everyone will be looking forward to seeing your creations.xxx

Yesterday, I shared a link for my new video on Youtube, I have to apologise for the late notice just before it went live but I had spent ages trying to join the 2 parts. It seems my phone splits them after 30 or so minutes, in the end they had to remain as 2 parts (both online now). In the video's I have a few demo's with the brand New Heat Transfer Paints, hints and tips. I want to do more this week as soon as my boxes arrive. What I would really like is for you to comment on the video and ask for the things you would like me to cover. I am hoping to do at least 2 more this week and get back to Natter With Nick and Back to Basics as long as this is popular.

I also drew the winner for the Craftascope Giveaway, so congratulations to the very lucky winner who will receive the full Regal Rose Collection. The new Giveaway started yesterday as well, full details are on the video, here is the video in 2 parts Im afraid, it was impossible to join them despite my many attempts.

I think thats all I need to share with you for now, My memory does seem to wonder these days. lol I hope you enjoy the new videos & that you will join me again later in the weeks for more. Please do add your questions and anything you would like to see or know below the video. For now Take care and Happy Crafting.xx

Foamiran Rose Card

Morning, I am back again with a little inspiration using the wonderful Foamiran from 14 Craft Bar. Today I have used the roses to decorate a beautiful decoupage card from Reddy. They make beautiful decoupage cards and what would be better to embellish it, but with some matching Foamiran roses. They really add that finishing touch.

You will Need:

White Foamiran (001)

Scissors

Hot Glue Gun

Blue Oil Pastel

Centura Pearl Precious Metal

Blue Card

Centura Pearl White/Silver Card

Reddy Decoupage

Tacky Glue

3D Glue Gel

Tonic Flourishes Die

Weathered Wood Distress Ink

Stamping Card.

Step 1: Cut out your mat and layers, this will depend on the image or decoupage you have chosen to use. I have picked the colours for this to match the colours in my image.

Step 2: Mount the design onto the first layer with Tacky glue.

Step 3: Add the other layers, then add your decoupage layers with 3D Glue gel.

Step 4: I added another layer to my card and then mounted it onto a Centura Pearl base as I wanted a larger finished card.

Step 5: Cut the flourishes from white stamping card, blend a little Weathered Wood Distress Ink to match the image. I have also used a Sakura gold pen, here and there, again to match the image.

Step 6: From 2.5 cm & 3 cm Foamiran squares cut your petal shapes.

Step 7: Take 4 or 5 petals at a time and edge them with the oil pastel, try to choose a colour to match your image.

Step 8: Warm the Foamiran on an iron, concertina fold and twist back and to. Shape the petals and roll some of the petals outwards. See the video below for the simple white rose.

Step 9: Create your roses, layering the petals and securing with the hot glue.

Step 10: Add the roses to your project. I have used 3D glue gel rather than hot glue as it gives you a longer working time to make sure you are happy with positioning.

Here is the finished card:

Thank you so much for joining me again today. I do hope I have given you a little inspiration, maybe another way of using your beautiful Foamiran flowers. Another thing, here is a 30% off voucher to use on your first order (anything) from Hochanda, use code FEY5JBP7.

I do hope you will join me again very soon, to see what else I have to share with you. For now Take care and Happy Crafting.xxx