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

Day 6 Advent offer -2 for you today- A long but heartfelt posts today.

Morning to you, I hope you are all well. I've added both Hochanda shows with Leonie to my youtube Channel now, so they're available anytime need some inspiration. We all hit a brick wall sometimes and just don't know what to create, so there's lots of inspiration for you on my youtube channel. The day 6 offer has been added, it's exciting there are 2 today, I had to really they go perfectly together. There's also a new Hidden Prize to find. I've added the stencils to a Pick n Mix Post, so you can select any 2 or any 4 and they are all Half Price, this is first come first served. If you missed the Retro Rounds stencils or dies, there are a few available, but again do be quick. I have also got a few of the amazing ATC Card Envelope die set available, but only a few. I hope you will take the time to read my heartfelt blog post today, those you know me well with know it's not just a bunch of meaningless words, It's exactly how I feel.

In case you haven't seen my posts over the last few days, I will recap the Craftascope December Giveaway. All you have to do is simply Create a Card, Scrapbook Page or any other project of your choice. Post your creation on your Facebook page and use the hashtag #craftascopedec20. Feel free to tag a crafty friend who might be interested in joining in for the chance to win one of the 3 prizes.

Here are the two Hochanda shows for you, there are lots more on the channel, for those of you that have invested in the Mens stencil, I have a Real Time tutorial (under 20 minutes), to show how to easily achieve a realistic face. Believe me it really is easy to do, I have seen a lot of results from previous customers some as young as 6.

This next bit is quite long, but it's all about Craftascope and me, it would be great if you took the time to read it. I have just added some random photos to break it up a bit. and Sorry, I started this earlier and it was morning but now it's afternoon.

My vision for Craftascope was to bring you something different, something that would encourage your creativity and the tools to create your own unique designs from Scratch. Over time, I've seen your styles change & evolve. From your messages and mail you have embraced that and thoroughly enjoyed the journey.

Every collection in the Craftascope range has been designed to work together to achieve a huge variety of projects. I had wanted to create a huge a permanent and interchangeable library of elements that would suit every single occasion and individual style. They will compliment everything you have in your craft room already and can even breathe new life in to older items.

Every stamp has been drawn by hand with pencil, paper and pit pens, then specific details have been removed to give as many options as possible and so as to not restrict your creativity.

Craftascope was never set up as a business venture, it grew from my own love of crafting & the joy of  helping, going back many years, before anyone had even heard of 'Nick from Barnsley' or 'Nick from Bulgaria'. Before it ever began, I have loved sharing  recommendations and tutorials. It's never been about making huge amounts of money, but obviously, it's imperative that it at least pays it's way. Living on an a small Ill Health Pension, I'm not in a position to pour in cash to cover shortfalls. I could have designed for a larger company, but then I would have been restricted in what I could bring and that was never an option, my original designs were never going to be commercial and would only be for a select market.

Until this year I had happily ticked on by. The best reward was from seeing the amazing creations you have shared with me, the crafters that have become more than just customers to me. Seeing and hearing about your crafty journey, allowing me into your lives and sharing your more personal stories has been an absolute honour. Crafting is about so much more than just making a card or project, it's about supporting each other, helping to build peoples confidence and sharing special friendships. I am so happy that I can call so many of you friends rather than customers. There's not many businesses where that can happen.

Sharing Craftascope was incredibly scary for me, it was only ever going to be one collection. When you bring a collection you've poured your heart and soul into each design and if people don't like it, it's a reflection on you. I remember having a conversation with Barbara Grey, way back then. I told her it was only going to be the one collection. It was something I wanted to bring as It was missing from the Craft world. 

I had never wanted to appear on Hochanda, I'm very nervous and fairly shy. After having probably one of the worst screen tests with Janice, my bottom lip was doing 100 to the dozen, almost bursting into tears, the actual show went very well. All the costs were covered, including my flight, Just the ticket and what I wanted to achieve.

Then things changed, Hochanda had given me the most amazing welcome, they made me feel part of the family and although I still don't enjoy being on TV, I do love everything that goes with it. The wonderful feedback from Crafters and the fact that people were actually loving the designs and spending Hard earned cash on them. It was amazing to realise that I was actually helping people and so many more than I could ever hope to reach on my blog.

I was full of ideas for products to design. I felt that there was a lot missing and (Without Being Big Headed) a couple of things I wanted to improve, the rectangles being one of them. I know they are basic and incredibly boring to look at but they are essential and so much more.

My Media Medley Collection came next, I actually shared this story recently with a customer, (Now a Friend). It started off with a simple/plain ATC Card. I had been searching for years and only ever came across ones with detail, so they already had someone's mark on them, for ATC's  you really want them to reflect you and your style. It grew around that with an envelope, lattice and all sorts of extras to make it more versatile. If you would like to see it in detail, do take a look at the Video on YOUTUBE LINK, I have added the last few sets yesterday, but there are only 3 or 4 left, so do act fast.

Seeing life on the other side of the camera, is on the whole very exciting. So many people that we don't see. Wonderful meeting those invaluable people behind the scenes, without who, there would be no shows at all, but they're forgotten a lot of the time. There is some bitchiness, only from the odd one or two and obviously behind your back. I have to say I found this the hardest to deal with. There is nothing very nice about people that are nice as pie to your face, only to find out that they are happy to talk or write about you, they're spineless really. Then there are those who don't actually say anything but encourage others too. Many times it has got to me and I have sat at home in tears. I constantly worry about what people think about me. So when things are said that are untrue or assumptions it hurts a lot, especially when you can't speak up, without making it worse. Luckily these people are few and far between. The vast majority are amazing people who will do anything they can to help you. Yes, on the whole the 'Crafting Family' is fantastic, they are friendly and supporting.

It's far easier said than done, but you really do have to ignore it. Very difficult when it's your character thats brought into question.

It's for all these reason and more that I feel so devastated at the possibility of closing Craftascope. This year (2020), was going to be my Best year yet. How things had been progressing, I was actually on course for some well earned profit. But as well all know now, that just wasn't going to be the case. 

This is why I really had to share with you, the things that have lead to this weeks posts. I just can't do this alone, without asking for help & support, or even some sort of Christmas Miracle, the only option I have is too close and it would be awful. I had to disband my Design Team earlier this eek and it's been one of the worst things I have had to do. Hearing back from them and what they had to say was worse though. They have done a sterling job of bringing the designs to life.

Through this year I have tried so many ways to get through and and endeavor to boost the low sales. I have always wanted to carry on for as long as I possibly could and  for as long as my health would allow. I d have a serious illness, that is continually deteriorating, but Craftascope has really kept me going. There was so much more that I wanted to share and I really wasn't ready to stop.

It's been a disastrous year for most of the world, I know I am not the only person to be affected. If you can add your support for me and Craftascope, it really would be amazing. I would never normally ask, and I know it is a big ask, but every single sale will help and could make the difference, it might even be the Christmas Miracle I need and am praying for. Do take a look at the Craftascope Store on Etsy, I have well over 80 Items and some have savings. I can't thank you enough for taking the time to read this. Any help that you can offer will really be appreciated.

For now Take care and Happy Crafting. Please keep Safe xxx

Morning to you all. I hope you are all well, In this blog I have included information about my Heat Press as I have had many questions about it.Today I am continuing with the Introduction of my wonderful new design team members, Like I said yesterday it's been a tough decision as all of the applicants were amazing and of such high quality. Today I am introducing you to Ann, here is what Ann would like to share with you, I am sure you will all join me in welcoming her to The Craftascope Family.

I'm Ann, and I live in the beautiful Golden Valley in Herefordshire, right on the Welsh border, with my husband, daughter (just about to start high school, how I'm looking forward to the teenage years!), father, four dogs and two parrots.

I started crafting many years ago when my mum taught me how to tat (a type of lace making using a shuttle and your hands). She made some beautiful things and encouraged me to have a go too.

Gradually I branched out into papercraft, card making and scrapbooking which I love. I also really enjoy needle felting and wet felting and like to combine this with free motion machine embroidery. I've recently started to experiment with mixed media projects and am playing with incorporating fabric, stitching, felting and more traditional papercrafting into my work. 

Crafting and creating things have been really therapeutic especially when I underwent treatment for breast cancer two years ago. I found it hugely relaxing to shut myself away and craft during my chemotherapy, and I'm sure it helped me to maintain a positive and balanced outlook. It's still my "me" time, away from my normal hectic life.

I'm so excited to be part of the design team, what a great excuse to disappear into my craft room and lose myself in creating lovely things with fabulous products.

Xxx

Welcome Along Ann and great to have you as part of the ever growing team. Now a little information for you about the heat press. The one I have is the 5 in 1 press and I purchased it from EBAY after a lot of consideration, It's an unbranded machine as these are a lot cheaper than the 400 odd pounds you can pay for a branded one. They machine is listed at 108.50, but I have told the seller that I am recommending it, he will accept an offer of 105.00 in the 'MAKE OFFER SECTION' THIS IS THE LINK TO THE ITEM I would like to make it clear that I am not getting any commission or payment for any purchases. The mugs I used are also on Ebay and I have to say they are excellent quality. THIS IS THE LINK FOR THE MUGS. They come with little boxes as well, again I am not getting commission for these either, I am only recommending them. Top tip, please ensure the mugs are at room temperature before transferring. I will be doing Video as soon as my parcels arrive back in Bulgaria.

Yesterday, I shared a discount code for use on my Etsy Store, which gives you 20% off any order over 30 pounds (SCPMAG20). Please feel free to use it on any purchase apart from the Heat Transfer Inks, Prefixer and Extender. Take care and Happy Crafting.xxx

Beauty in Everything

Hi Friends and Crafters. Well here I am with the first tutorial using the New 'Retro' Collection launched on Hochanda a couple of weeks ago. I have to thank you all so much for embracing the  unique collection. I was so touched  that so many of you have now joined the Craftascope Family. It's also been a real treat for me to see all of the beautiful Creations being shared. It really does show me, how much fun you are having and for me thats the best part of bringing you my designs.

Before I start with my tutorial today, I want to mention the 'Graceful Striplet' Die I have added to my Etsy store. If you dont know abut it I have added the video here for you. At the moment there are more of you have it in your baskets than I have stock, so sadly people are going to be disappointed. If you really want this die, then I urge you to check out. They are not safe in your basket and if someone buys it will be lost. I hate to go on, but I had so many messages from people who missed out on the Retro Stamps and Rose Petals that I don't want the same thing happening.

You will need:

Craftascope Retro Leaves Die Collection

Craftascope Retro Rounds A5 Stencil

Clarity 8 x 8 Card Blank, cut to 7 1/2 x 7 1/2''

Clarity Stencil Brushes

8 x 8 Card Base

Basic Round Die (Approx 6 1/2'')

Distress Inks: Fossilized Amber, Wild Honey & Aged Mahogany 

Versafine Black Ink

Waste Plastic Packaging

EVA or Funky Foam

Yellow and Orange Card (Here Tim Holtz Distress Pad)

Step 1: Trim your Card blank to 7 1/2 x 7 1/2, you will use the remainder at another time. Cut a piece of copier paper that same size and cut a circle into it. Use temporary adhesive spray to secure to your card.

Step 2: Using the Distress inks blend from Light at the top to Dark at the base to create a really rich background.

Step 3: Cut your chosen leaves from EVA foam, I like the EVA foam more than the Funky Foam as it hold the ink better, especially good if you are going to use them again. Spray the back with Stick n Stay then secure to the waste plastic packaging. This will allow you to use them again and again.

Step 4: Remove the mask from your card and replace the inner circle over your design, again with temporary adhesive. Take the stencil and the 2 lighter ink pads and create some interest around the center focal point.

Step 5: Use Temporary adhesive to your stamps and position them into your design using the black ink.

Step 6: Stamp your sentiment onto white card, edge with the black ink and layer it onto Orange and Yellow card. Mount your artwork onto the same yellow and orange card to match, making sure you have gutted it as always.To finish off mount it onto your base card and secure the sentiment with either foam pads or 3D glue gel.

If you prefer not to add matting and layering to your card, then I would suggest working directly onto the Clarity Card Base, as I say on all my videos and tutorials it takes the inks and colour really beautifully and well worth it.

Before I go just to let you know abut the offer I have on the Blooming Marvelous Collection (pictured above) on my Esty Store, There are only 4 left at the amazing price of 58.95. The collection includes the Beautiful Dolphin Die, 3 A5 stencils and 2 A5 plus stamp sheets, not far off A4 really so a it's a great time to add it to your Craftascope Library. See the Etsy listing for more inspirational photos.

I hope you will join me tomorrow at 7 PM for the next episode of ''Natter with Nick'' to see what I will be sharing and for the new Natter with Nick offer. For now Take care and Happy Crafting.xx

Natter with Nick Episode 2 and more

Hi Friends and Crafters. Well it's Wednesday and time for another Natter with Nick tonight at 7 pm. I have broken it into two this week to see if they are faster to upload and I have to say that they were, I left enough time in case it was another 8 hours, but it was less than half that this time. I do hope you will join me for a natter, some demos, Hints, tips and some Wednesday night fun.

Part 2 of this weeks episode will go live at 7.30, to give time to have a chat answer any questions etc. I hope you enjoy  part 2 just as much as the first part. I will take this time to let you know about the 'BIG GIVEAWAY', I have still had a lot of people who don't know about it, I have shared it as much as I can, but obviously with the way Facebook share, there are people who will miss out. What do you have to do? Leave an Honest review for any Craftascope Purchase on my Etsy store. Thats it, then you will be in with the chance of winning my Brand New August collection, consisting of 3 Beautiful Stamp Sets, Stencils and dies.

When you have watched the Natter with Nick, please get in touch if there is anything you would like me to include in my future shows. Anything crafty at all, I will always try and include it. I want these shows to be enjoyable and informative, so your feedback is extremely valuable.

Well I will see you tonight at 7 pm and again at 7.30 pm. For now Take care and Happy Crafting.xx

Dare to Be Different One Day Special with Craftascope

Morning Friends and Crafters, Well at last I have got to the end of the preparation for my very first One Day Special on Hochanda. I do hope you will join me and add your support. This is a very different collection, absolutely fantastic for Mixed Media projects, but a lot more besides.

The stamps, dies and stencils will allow you to create a wide range of unique crafting projects. Today I have included a few Sneek Peeks for you. to give you a taste of whats to come.

I really am sure the shows are going to be a lot of fun and maybe a few surprises along the way. You never know.There has been an awful lot of prep, which has taken a lot more time than I expected so please forgive me for my absence, I do hope you think it's been worth the wait.

Please do join me on Monday evening at 6pm with Hayley and then 8pm with our Leonie. I will be back again for more shows on Tuesday at 9am, 1pm and for Final Call at 5pm. I really look forward to sharing this collection with you and hope you will add your support. Will you 'Dare to be Different ?' 

For now Take care and Happy Crafting.xxx

Willow Landscape

Morning Friends and Crafters, I do hope you all enjoyed your May Day bank holiday weekend. It's not long until I am back with my new collection on Hochanda, it's going to be very exciting, with lot's of demonstrations and giveaways too. It will be my very first One Day Special so a big celebration, I do hope I can count on your support. It's a very different collection and I really can't wait to share it with you. Today I am sharing a  card I made using the Weeping Willow stencil from my Blooming Marvelous Collection.

You will Need:

Craftascope 'Not Just The Gift' Stamp

Craftascope 'Weeping Willow' Stencil

Clarity Stamp Landscape Mask

Clarity Stamp Moon Mask

Clarity Stamp Tree Stamps

Distress Inks: Chipped Sapphire, Blueprint Sketch and Black Soot

Clarity A5 Stamping Card

Clarity Black Base Card 8 x 8'' cut down to size

Step 1: Position your moon & hills mask in place then with the spray adhesive position the stencil.

Step 2: Blend the sky using the distress inks from dark to light. Then remove the willow mask.

Step 3: Place the negative mask to protect your sky. Also protect the white edges around your design with copier paper and spray.

Step 4: Use the remaining masks to create your landscape with the lighter blue distress inks.

Step 5: Remove the moon mask, then stamp the trees in place to complete your design. Use the landscape masks to ensure that the trees sit nicely on the ground.

Step 6:  Finally stamp the sentiment within the large moon. Then mount onto your black card base.

Thank you for visiting today.  It's that time again and Nominations are open for the Craft awards. It would be amazing to be nominated in some of the categories. Every bit of support is appreciated , I really do value it, it means an awful lot especially for newcomers to the craft word. I love to be able to bring my collections, especially as they are different to what is out there This is the link to nominate your favourite Crafts and brands: Best of Craft Awards.

I know blogging is now becoming less and less popular and I see that this year they have even removed the category for best blog. I suppose it's only a matter of time until most people will use the more popular forms of social media. I think it's a great resource for some crafters, I love to share so I will continue for as long as I get visits. I do hope you will use your vote to support your favourites. For now take care and Happy Crafting.xx