The Craftascope Half Price offer ends tomorrow

Hi to all of you, I have and such a busy time chasing deliveries and answering messages and emails, I just haven’t had the time to add to my blog. Hopefully you will all have your special parcels. It sure has been a struggle and a lot of tracking to find out just exactly what was going on. I do hope that you are happy with all of your new goodies and that you will have many hours creating with them. The Half Price code ends tomorrow, so if there is anything else you would like to add to your collection the code is THANKS50 Just getting over all of the stress and frustration, thank you so much for being so patient and understanding. After Christmas I have been missing Mince Pies since I finished them all so I have made some of my own, I really could eat them all day, every day.

I would also like to thank all of you who have taken time to leave reviews on the Craftascope store. It was delightful reading them and I was really touched at the wonderful comments you have left, I was really touched. I am just so pleased that the excessive delays didn’t spoil your experience too much. I know what it’s like when you place and order and are excited about getting it, there’s nothing worse than long waits and delays. All you want to do is get crafting, I am the same, so having borders shut, parcels returned and suspensions, all on top of the coronavirus it couldn’t really have been a worse time. LINK FOR THE CRAFTASCOPE STORE.

The postal suspensions are still in place, so any orders will be packed immediately as normal and posted as soon as they are lifted, hopefully that won’t be too long now. Many of you know me well enough to know, but for those of you who don’t I can assure you that I would never let anyone lose out or suffer financially, so you can buy with that confidence when taking advantage of the 50% off code.

Some of you might know about the new VAT laws that the UK implemented on the 31^st December. To simplify it as far as ETSY is concerned. They are responsible for collecting the VAT on behalf of the UK Government now, so if you are in the UK the price will show differently to how it does in the EU. I can assure you I have not increased my prices. It’s the best time to take advantage of the 50% discount. There are lots of items in baskets and some items are very low in stock, the offer ends at midnight tomorrow (1^st Feb 2012), so please don't miss out an anything that you really want.

After my experience with the Royal Mail Labels, couriers are not an option at the moment with the restrictions still causing delays. Despite an explanation they refused to refund the unused labels as they were out of their 21 day limit and the amount of labels I was requesting refunds for, however they were more than happy for me to purchase replacements for them.  Hopefully things will get better soon, it’s times like this we realise just how much of ‘Normal Life’ we take for granted.

Take care and Happy Crafting. Stay Safe my Friends.

Happy New Year, Goodbye to 2020 & Happier Times.

Here we are the very last day of 2020, the last few hours of what has been a very different year for everyone around the world. Lots coming to an end, making way for the new and as always unknown, but then that does make it exciting. This week the new Oxford Vaccine was given the green light, giving us hope that things will return to normal at some point, whether that is this year or next. It’s going to be a strange New Years Eve, without the normal parties and get togethers. I don’t think there are many who will be sad to see the end of 2020. I’m sure we’ve all had some good times in 2020, I know it hasn’t all been bad. Today, I had a beautiful gift from a dear customer along with a handmade card that will be treasured.

Thank you ever so much Mary, it really was very thoughtful of you to send me such a wonderful Scarf, it usually gets very cold here so it will get a lot of use, I can tell you. Not quite yet though as the weather has been unseasonally warm for the last few days, it’s set to continue for the next week or so. I’m not complaining, but it’s strange to have temperatures of 20 & above. Anyway back to your lovely card along with the message, it really was moving, I am so happy I have been able to help you.

Early on in the year, one of my cats decided to have here litter of kittens while sitting in my lap, which was fun. Trying to get my dressing gown off while not causing to much movement was another tricky, but hilarious task. I managed it but goodness know what it looked like. She had 3 lovely kittens, one fairly huge, the other 2 were quite a lot smaller.

June came along, I never normally bother with my Birthday, but this year it was my 50^th and it would have been nice to have done something special for it. Sadly it wasn’t going to be possible. I did meet up with friends though in the Village square. Actually after being stuck in for a few months, there was nothing nicer than sitting in the summer sun with friends and a couple of pints. For the next few months it was something nice to look back on and remember what it was like to be free to do all the normal things that we’ve all taken so much for granted. My little Niece Charlotte sent me a beautiful handmade card and all her own design, another one that will always be treasured.

By this time, the kittens had got a lot bigger, once they open their eyes and start playing it’s a lot of fun watching what they get upto. This is a photo I had to get. The larger cat is ‘Tiger’ she doesn’t like any other cats, I really mean that and never lets anther one come within a few inches, without screaming the house down. To come into the room and see this was astonishing, I honestly don’t know how the kitten managed to get on top and sleep there for so long. Luckily for the little one, she managed to get off before Tiger woke up, I dread to think what would have happened otherwise.

An update about ‘Monkey’, I will have to have her come and do another video with me, if she will behave. She still loves to sit on my shoulder and my head, so luckily she hasn’t grown too big. Here she is in her favourite box, she also likes to snuggle up in the odd saucepan as well. She will actually get comfortable in any tight space. Lol

I’m sharing the voucher with you again for those of you didn’t see it in an earlier post. The voucher code will give you 50% off anything across the store. If your order is 30 pounds or more it will take off the 50% off. There will be a delay in posting, as you might know all post between Europe and the UK has been suspended, but it should be back to normal very soon. If there is something you want, please don’t wait too long as some things are low in stock. It’s probably good that I can’t post at the moment as everything I touch seems to be going wrong. If you can give me your support and buy something from the store it will really help me. I don’t want to give up, I have so much ore to share with you and I know with a little support from you all will make all the difference in the world. I would love 2021 to be the best year so far, so please, if you can support me and Craftascope it would be very much appreciated, it will never be forgotten. The link for the Craftascope Store can be found at the top of the Page. Thank you ever so much.

Wishing you all a wonderful New Year, I am hoping that 2021 with be a great year for you. Take care and Stay Safe. Bless you All xx

Advent Offers Added Plus some amazing Star Buys, A Bit Of Baking and Another Beautiful Card

 Hi Everyone, What a day, I have just finished adding all of the Advent offers and some amazing Star Buys too. I do hope you will take a look and maybe treat yourself while they are available. There are even more items in Baskets today, I really don't want you disappointed, so please check out so you don't miss out, there are more in baskets than I have available to sell. Some of the Half Price offers are ending tonight and tomorrow. The stencils are also running low, so please choose while there's a larger choice. I thought I would do a bit of baking this morning, I love Bakewell Tart, there was even enough to make some small ones to, so I will look forward to a couple after dinner tonight.

I had another wonderful card from a Friend and customer yesterday, along with a beautiful leather bookmark. Thank you ever so much Judy, the card will be treasured, as will the Bookmark, It really is brilliant and so kind and thoughtful of you.

I thought I would keep this post short today as I really have been so busy, trying to add all of the offers to the Craftascope Store. I do hope you will take a look and add your support, there are some very attractive prices. There are some amazing star buys, saving well over 50%. I have added all of the offers so you have chance to buy before Tuesday, as I want to send the orders off to the UK, that way we can avoid some of the Postal Delays and Hopefully your orders with arrive sooner. 

The  offer on the Chrysanthemum dies had run out, so I have added another discount for 24 hours only as there are so many in Baskets, so don't delay if you are after these as they will be going up to the regular price. It really is the best time to buy with the prices so low, it helps you to increase your Craft goodies and supports me at the same time.

Thank you ever so much for your support so far, I really appreciate it. Take care and Happy Crafting.xx

Lots of Exciting News Today- Day 18 Advent Offers Added- A Star Buy Added-Craftascope Closing on December 22nd

 Morning too you all. Well Day 18 is already here and there's not long to go now. There's lot of Exciting news today, so here are the bullet points with more information below. The Advent offer for Day 18 Has been added, A Special Star Buy. Customers in the USA can Purchase, An Extra Discount Code For Everyone, Some offers ending on the 20th & 21st, Last Posting date 22nd December, A big Day on Sunday and Finally Craftascope will be closing on the 22nd December. Full details below. Hopefully you will all be adding your wonderful creations to the Craftascope December Giveaway, Im looking forward to seeing them all. Here is a wonderful Creation from a Craftascope Customer, this uses the wonderful Retro Leaves Stamp Set, what a great piece, thank you to Emma for sharing.

There is a special star buy in the store today, I will give you a clue, It is a collection and has a large discount. If you find it, add it to your order along with a note on the order and you will receive a free Bonus Die set. Please don't forget to keep your eye out for the hidden Daily prize, add a note of what it is and you will have that added to your parcel too.

  One From Katrina Using Retro Leaves.

Here is a discount code for everyone (BASKET10) enter this code and you will receive and additional 10% discount off your order total. It is valid across the store, even on items already on offer. So it really is a great time to add to your collection.

One From Natalie Using the Retro Leaves.

I need to say this again as there are so many items in Baskets. Please do check out these items as soon as you can, I honestly dont have enough stock of these items to cover everyone, so there are going to be people losing out. You should be able to see this when you are in the store. There are more items in basket than I have available. Some of them are still on offer but some of the offers will be ending n the 20th & others on the 21st, why not get them now with the additional discount and you know they are yours. There's nothing I can do I am afraid and some people are going to be disappointed, there won't be new stock available once these have gone.

One from Bryan with Xander & Retro Chaos

For all of my very valued Customer in The USA, with the help of a friend I can now offer postage to you via the UK, so if you would like to place your orders and take advantage of the discount please go ahead until the 21st December. The discount code above is for everybody, so do use it and share it with any friends and Family that might be interested.

One From Jane Using the Retro Leaves.

As I mentioned above, some of the additional offers are ending at midnight on the 20th and the others at Midnight on the 21st. Craftascope will be closing on the 22 December, this will also be the last posting date, so do please take advantage of all of the amazing offers on the Craftascope Store and the additional Discount available. As you know the Transition Period ends on the 31st December at 11pm and after this Etsy will be collecting VAT on Behalf of the UK Authorities, this has nothing to do with me at all. Also anything posted after that date will be liable for Customs and Import Taxes on Delivery, so another reason for taking advantage of the offers.

One From Cheryl Using the Retro Leaves.

Because of the last posting date, the Last Advent Calendar Offer will be Day 20, On the 20th I will add all of the remaining offers, so do watch out on Sunday as it will be a very exciting day. After the 22nd December, then next day for posting will be on the 5th January 2021.

Jewellery from Terri Using the Retro Maze

Thank you for supporting Craftascope, especially over the last few weeks. It's been incredibly kind of you.  Please continue to add your support for me and Craftascope, it still can make a difference. As soon as I have got myself sorted I will be in touch with each of you, I will never forget it whatever happens in the future. For now Take care and Happy Crafting.xx

All About Essentials Today - Day 16 of the Advent Calendar Event

A Very Good Morning to all my Wonderful Friends & Crafters. The New offers have been added to the Store Today for Day 16 of the Advent Calendar. Today is all about the Essentials, some might think they are boring and there's not much difference between them. I can tell you there is and they can make a huge difference to your Card Making, Scrapbooking, in fact they form the basis of most of our projects and getting it right is essential. Like everything in life you need to get the foundations right if you want things to look good. It's all abut the preparation, they can save you a fortune too, so read on.

Firstly the Triskaidecagon Die Sets, or 'Trisky' for short. This is the name I should have chosen, rather than the tongue twister. I never was a lover of circles or rounds, although this has really changed and you will now find a lot of circles and rounds in some of the designs. I really wanted something different that was circular in shape but not quite, so came this 13 sided shape. Here Nicola Has used them to Create the Hungry Caterpillar, a really great design and such fun.

There are 2 sets, One gives you a perfect matt & layer, with pin detail around the edge, the second gives an inner mat & layer but also a beautiful pin detailed thin frame which all work in conjunction with each other, giving  a huge variety of options. Having started to write this I think the best way of seeing them in action is to watch the launch show, they were launched alongside the Florals. But also a dedicated video might also be a great way of showing them in action, I will set about that after Christmas, whatever happens. So here I will show them in use. In this card Jane has used the Layering Dies with the Floral Companions & Floral Harmony stamp sets. It really is a beautiful colourful card.

This next card also from Jane is using the Nesting Die Set to create her base easel card along with all the mats and layers. These dies are excellent quality and will easily cut your card bases. The decoration for the card comes from the Floral Companions Stamp& Die Set. These leaves stamp beautifully to give perfect image transfer and the words are so crisp, embossed in white.

The next two cards are from Katrina & Natalie, The first has used both sets one to cut the aperture in the card and the nesting set to use the fine pin detailed frame which sets it off beautifully. then a similar look for the sentiment. The decoration used stamps from Floral Harmony and Floral Companions. In the second card both sets have been used again, this time t create a topper, then the nesting set to get the fine detailed pin framed raised edge. The flowers here are from the Floral Harmony Stamp Set.

Next we have a shaker card from Jane, using both sets to create the matt behind, then two dies to create the thicker frame and finishing it off with the lovely raised frame with the pin detail. This is something you couldn't get with any other die set. The stamps used are the Floral Harmony, but you could also change the look completely using the Floral Companions or the leaves from the same set, or any other stamps of your choice.

Here's a really striking but simple card from Nicola, A plain black Background embossed using the Retro Maze Stencils, all of the stencils emboss well into your card stock, so dont ever think of them as just stencils. The a variety of coloured frames cut using the Nesting dies, it really is so effective. A great card to make if you need something quickly as well.

This one uses a mixture of the dies to create an easel card cutting through acetate, Then creating the frames and base matt and Layers in card. The baubles are made from the Retro Leaves.

There are just so many other ways to use them, This is just a small selection to show how different they are. They really are not like all the other dies out there, despite looking exactly the same. Please don't make the mistake of taking everything on face value. The products I bring out will always offer you something different.

Form Natalie, Using the Retro Banner Dies

From Jane, Using the Floral Harmony Stamps.

From Nicolas Using the Floral Companions Stamps & Dies.

Nicolas Using the Floral Companions Dies & Stamps.

This last one is from Natalie, Using the Floral Companions Stamps, Very Clever.

Now moving onto the Rectangles, I made a couple of boards to show these on the show, it was by far the easiest way to show them, They can look rather plain, they have been perfectly sized for all the popular card sizes. They can give a range of Matt & Layers ranging from the finest and for those of you prefer you can widen the border by selecting alternate dies. They had to come in 2 sets as I wanted thicker dies that wouldn't warp out of shape after going through the machine. One of my other sets will no longer cut a perfect rectangle, If I fold the die cut in half it doesn't meet, so no good for cutting notelets. Here is a beautiful piece from Ann, using  a selection of them for a totally different project.

I designed my rectangles as I have 3 other sets in my collection and in each set there are a minimum of 3 dies that I cant use for anything, they are too small for sentiments or anything on another the rectangles get more square like as they reduce in size so weren't perfect for layering. Just because they look simple it's far from easy to design a set, it's simply not the case to reduce them by increments, that just doesn't work. Here is a great card using the Rectangles for matting any layering, such a simple but effective card.

Now gutting card, tis really is must and can save you  a lot of money on Postage, I hear the prices are going up again on January 1st, so we want to save every penny. I have seen lots of gadgets and gizmos to gut card, but they all require measuring or cutting. One you have to mark the card, some use a grid and then have to cut it with a craft knife. None of them are cheap. These are sized perfectly, gutting couldn't be simpler, You just run through your card with the die, no measuring ,no marking, no Craft Knives and no accidents, it's just so simple. These can save you a fortune on all your decorative card and papers. I think this is also something I need to show in a youtube video. I have to say it really infuriates me when I see things being sold, that are just not needed and they aren't cheap either.

It's so much harder to describe the benefits of these Rectangular dies, I really do need to show them, but for those of you who know me, know that I wouldn't try and sell you something that I didn't believe in. I have bee recommending things for many years, even before I had Craftascope, so I think I have a reputation for giving good advice. We have all wasted lots of money on things that we think we want, but then we get it and it's no good. I have been there, I was new too and I dread to think of the rubbish I bought, sadly there was nothing like this when I started, so it really was trial and error. Here are a few more of the projects made with the dies on this blog.

All of these Dies are on offer today as pairs, I do recommend both sets. I believe in them 100% and I know that when you get them home you will see the value in each one of them. If you have had any Craftascope products you will knw that the quality is excellent, whether it's the Stamps, Dies or Stencils. For anyone that doesn't know I would like to point out that I have only ever brought out 2 sets that are the A5 size, those are the Media Dolphin & the Media Profile in the Thermo Plastic Rubber. Then there were 2 other A5 sets made from the Grey Rubber and made for me By the wonderful Girls at Stamp Addicts. Each of the other sets are very large Stamp Sheets, they are not A4 either but some are very close.

Thats all for now, Just to say please continue to add you support to me & Craftascope, your support so far has been amazing but Im not out of the woods yet. If you do need or want any craft items then this is the time to buy, the offers are incredible and until December 31st there's no extra to pay when they arrive in the UK. Etsy will be collecting the VAT on behalf of the UK Authorities from Jan 1st, so you will notice that on any receipt after that date. Even if it's a small order, if a lot of people do then together it will make a big difference. You're probably tired of hearing it but I do want to continue bringing my designs for as long as I am able. If I could reduce the prices any further  to get more sales then believe me I would. For now Take Care and Happy Crafting.xx

What a nice treat - always lovely to get a handmade card, they're treasured. Big Giveaway

Hi all, Well, I am more than just a bit late today. There have been quite a few sell outs since I wrote my last post. Very sad to see the last of the popular 'Complete Floral Collection' it's been a firm favourite of yours & mine. The Floral Scent Stamp set is another thats now gone from stock too. The 'Floral Companions' stamp & die set is still available though as is the Floral Harmony Stamps which are also a definite to have in your collection. The Rose Petals have also sold out for the 5th time now, sadly these wont be coming back again, but for those of you who have the Large Rose Petals in your Baskets, please check them out as I don't have enough stock for all of you and I don't want anyone disappointed. It really is First Come, First Served, these won't be restocked. I'd like to share a beautiful card from one of my wonderful Customers.

We all love getting cards and letters, but you really can't beat a handmade card, It's not just the card but the Time, Care and Love thats behind it. I have  wonderful collection and every single one is treasured, it goes without saying that they will always be kept. Talking about cards, I do hope that you will be entering the Craftascope December Giveaway. It's so simple to enter and you could be one of the 3 winners of 100 Pounds to spend at the Craftascope Store. Take a look at the poster below for the simple way of sharing your creations.

You're probably really bored with my stock updates, I have to agree with you, but I don't want people to miss out or to be accused of not giving you fair warning, which I have been on many occasions. Even if I do manage to continue with Craftascope with your continues support, the minimum order numbers make it impossible to restock on every item, I have to know that there is the demand. Many of the items have sold out multiple times and I have been able to restock. The Chrysanthemums for instance have sold out 4 times, thats hundreds of them in homes all across the world, thats amazing for me to think about and I am humbled. Here is a link for the store, there's another at the top of the page: CRAFTASCOPE STORE

The same is true for the ATC Card & Envelope Die and others. There are items across the store that are short and have been put into baskets, I really would urge you to check out do you don't lose out. They are not safe in your basket and as you have heard so many times they are not yours until they are checked out, so please don't miss these, especially with the great prices offered.

All of the most recent offers have been left in store along with the new ones today for those of you who have missed out. It will help you, save envelopes and postage too. The items that are low and more at risk of selling out are: Chrysanthemums (very Urgent), ATC Card & Envelope Die, Retro Leaves Dies, Retro Chaos Striplet Die, ATC Antics Stamps, Retro Banner Die, Retro Banner Stamps, Such a card Stamps. Some of these are on offer as well, so it really couldn't be a better time to add them to your collection and adding your support for Me & Craftascope.

I really can't thank those of you who have added your support, whatever happens it will never be forgotten. If sales continue, then there is every chance that I could go continue. Which would be fantastic news as I have some lovely collections that are already prepared for production. There's still a way to go, but it is looking more promising and you know me, I am excited and upbeat about the prospect. The thought of actually getting through this, especially when a couple of weeks ago it was almost definite that I would close at the end of the year. If you can add your support, it would be amazing and make all the difference, I can't do this alone. The Advent offers are helping you to add to your Craftascope Collections and in turn making the difference to the future of Craftascope. Here is a page from this weeks Simply Cards & Paper Crafts.

Don't forget to keep looking for those Daily Hidden Prizes, If you happen to find one add it as a note on your order form and it will be added to your parcel. Good luck in finding them. I forgot to mention That Craftascope was in this weeks Simply Cards and Papercraft and in quite a few other magazines on the 24th December, so a little Christmas Treat for me. I have added the page further up the blog. Take care and Happy Crafting.xx

Dat 14 Advent Offers- Well worth a look. A Recommendation and some Important POSTAGE Info

Morning everyone. I hope you are all well and that you had a great weekend. It was great to speak to so many of you yesterday, it's been a fairly long time since I've heard from some of you. If you ever need packing boxes I have a recommendation and (A Steer Clear Notice). So, I have added 2 new offers for Day 14 of the Advent Calendar Event. Congratulations to those of you who have found the hidden Daily Prize, they will be added to your order, keep looking every day. Two of you got in touch yesterday as you couldn't place orders, I am really sorry, for once this wasn't my error, but it is fixed and there should be no more problems.  I've added the previous offers back on to make up for yesterday, please read on for postage information.

There's so much to choose from in the Craftascope store and with amazing offers, to help you get a good price and so I can hopefully go on bringing you unique and special designs. The florals are all still on offer, even the Rose Bouquet Die Set and the Rose Striplet to match the Hochanda Offer. The Beautiful Regal Rose Stamp set, the Splinters in Time Stamp Set both have a super discounts. Sadly there are only 2 of the Complete Floral Companions set and still at a great price. 

BASKET INFORMATION: There are some items that are low in stock and are in more baskets than I have stock available. Regular Rose Petal Dies, Large Rose Petals, Chrysanthemum Dies and a few more. I really hate to go on, but I like to let you know, I really don't like having an ear bashing when customers miss out on something that I can no longer get. The ATC Dies are low in stock as are the wonderful Handy Helpers, the Retro Banner, the Retro Banner Stamps and others.

There are postage delays everywhere at the moment, I have added a note about this on the Craftascope Store and I try to let everyone know before packing to give the option of cancelling. So please, please dont get angry with me these delays are caused by flight cancellations, staff shortages, checks etc. Unless otherwise stated, I pack and post every order immediately and either post the same day or the following day, depending on the time.

IMPORTANT NOTE RE POSTAGE: Tomorrow I will be posting all orders received before 8am on the 15th December. These will all go by Courier to the UK and will be posted from there to ensure faster delivery. Any orders after that time will be posted as normal, it just isn't possible financially for me to post each individual orders by courier, there are no postage charges made by me, apart for the nominal charge for some items going to the USA. Do bear in mind that orders over the 35 pounds are free to the USA anyway. The post office have notified me that I can't send any parcels to the USA after tomorrow, so please do make sure you meet the deadline. I am doing everything in my power to make sure everyone gets everything they want, I am not being difficult or forcing you to make your purchases.

I am so touched by the wonderful messages and emails offering support, they have been wonderful to receive and some have had me in tears. You all mean such a lot to me, I can honestly say that your support for me and Craftascope from Day 1 has been amazing. You have been a real tonic, knowing that you like the designs I bring and love to craft with them is the greatest compliment I could ever wish for.

I'm not heartless, this year has been dreadful for everybody, I realise that not everyone is in a position to buy anything from Craftascope. But getting your message and emails of support has been comforting as well, it's wonderful to know how much you care it really is. It's been humbling that you have spent your hard earned cash on my designs and that you love using them in your crafting. To hear that you like that they are unique and different as well as inspirational, all f these mean such a great deal to me. I am still hopeful that I will be able to continue bringing the Craftascope collections to you in the future.

Support comes in many different ways, Comments on my Facebook posts are always welcome and as you know I always answer. Leaving comments on those posts helps such a lot, especially when it comes to them being shared throughout Facebook. The more comments, the more they are shared which helps me & Craftascope no end. Likes & Loves etc are wonderful as well but Facebook doesn't recognise these as interactions and doesn't help with them being seen by others. I love to see your comments, they really cheer me up, I know I am not alone, so please leave a comment, it's worth a lot more than you think, this is why the larger companies are shared so much as they attract the most interaction. I'm not asking for fame or fortune, just to help where I can and to have my designs used by so many creative people. Thats all for now, Take care and Happy Crafting. xxx