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

Advent Calendar Day 5, Another Video for youtube and More

Morning Friends and Crafters. Well it's Day 5 of the Advent Calendar event already, Todays offer is a must for every single crafter, don't forget to look for the hidden gift. It looks like a month that is going to fly by. I really can't believe it's only a matter of weeks until Christmas. I am loving my Father Christmas, He makes me smile every time I walk past, a couple of the cats are very wary of him, keeping a wide berth as they walk past. He's definitely a great buy and something that will come out year after year, although saying that I don't know if I would feel good packing him away. 

I have uploaded the second show from Sunday 29th Nov with Leonie on Hochanda, the link is here so you can either watch it directly or choose to watch it on Youtube. I have lots of other video on my channel and there is a link at the top of the blog page. Please comment on any of the videos if there is anything you would like to see me demonstrate, I would love to know what you are looking to see, if there's a particular technique or anything. It's much better than me doing something that nobody wants to watch.

I have packed the orders that came in, thank you once again. I am more than happy to hold onto any package for anyone who would like to take advantage of any other offers through the Advent Calendar event. Just let me know as soon as you would like me to post them to you. If you've not asked for this then I will just send them as normal. Just to let you know, even if you have asked for the delayed dispatch, I will still mark them as sent to avoid the emails reminders from Esty. For all of you who have got Craftascope products, please get involved in the December Giveaway, it really is simple to do, full details are on my Facebook page and on my earlier blog post.

I'd like to thank those of you who added their support on Thursday, the sales did help. If there's any more of my valued customers and friends that would like to add their support, just take a look at my store. I have had some wonderful messages & E-mails, Thank you ever so much. A few saying sorry that they couldn't help more, I can't begin to tell you how you have helped. Even hearing from you helps, It's been a lonely year, not being able to see a way out. Every single sale will make a difference however small, if everyone bought some half price stencils it would make a huge difference. Please don't feel you are not helping, I can assure you, you really are. If closing Craftascope is what lies ahead for me, then so be it, but after trying so hard to keep going through the year, I am asking you from the bottom of my heart to add your support if you are in a position to help and if you would like to help me continue bringing my designs. Craftascope has been a  huge help to me, It has helped to keep me going despite my health, I dont know if I would have done so well without it. Thanks again for now Take care and Happy Crafting.xx

Advent Calendar Day 4 - Video Uploaded & More

Morning Friends and Crafters. The cold snap is gradually going and the snow is melting away, thank goodness. I will be glad when it's all gone, sadly I know it's going to be back sometime soon though, it always looks so beautiful and great when you're in the warm. There's a brand new offer added today for Day 4 of the Craftascope Advent Calendar Event, I do hope you are following it, there's something very special for day 24, if you have been watching you will have a head start. Don't forget to look for the hidden parcel, which is on one of the listings, details on yesterdays blog and further down this one.

As promised I have uploaded the first of Sunday's Hochanda shows with Leonie, it's on my youtube channel and will always be available for you to look back on for some inspiration. I thoroughly enjoyed both shows, Leonie gave us some great demos, I will definitely be trying some out as it's totally different from my crafting style. I could watch Leonie all day, I've mentioned a few times that she should do some crafting DVD'S, I'd love to have them. Here's the video, you can also watch on the Youtube site.

As mentioned at the top and in yesterdays blog, there's a parcel hidden on one of the listings, it's on a larger design, photo below, if you find it all you have to do is mention on your order form, where you found it, then I will add that item to your parcel as a bonus. Please dont make it public, where you found the parcel, each day it will be on a different item, so do look for it and good luck.

I do hope you read my blog yesterday, It was an incredibly difficult one for me to write, I am a fairly private person as many of you will know. I really don't like to share things like that or the state of my health, but I really had to reach out. It was pure desperation and the thought of closing Craftascope after working so hard to build it up from nothing. Running Craftascope has been a lifeline for me and got me through some bad times and kept me going. Even before the Craftascope Brand, I've had so much pleasure from being in a position to share my crafts. I've always considered it as a big family, it's been fantastic having such wonderful comments and hearing that I have either inspired you or helped in some way, however small. It's fantastic to hear & to know that I have made a difference for someone. 

I would like to say a huge thank you to Judy, Jo, Tina, Angela, Dawn & Jennifer for placing orders yesterday, I can't thank you enough for your support, as I said every single order will help, it really will, it doesn't matter how small. I know things have been difficult for everyone, which makes your support all the more wonderful. I hope that one day I have the opportunity to offer my help and support.

Through life I've never been someone who sits back and I wont give in easily. The way I look at it, is just recently I have been dealt such a bad hand, that surely my luck has to change soon. Well for now Take care and Happy Crafting. xx 

Fun with Foam and another Youtube Video Tonight

Hi again Everyone. Im doing another Youtube Video at 7.30 this evening (UK Time) So if you would like to join me I would love you to. All of the video's will be available at any time that you're free. I've included some updates from yesterday and the stamps we made and another demo as well.

Here's a photo of one of the simple stamps we made yesterday. Not great in Black n White but add  coloured ink instead and it would be just perfect for a background for any project. Great for mixed media, journals or scrapbooks.

The same basic shape used for this stamp too, just in a different pattern giving a totally different look. This makes a super border for a card. Again perfect for scrapbooks, Journals, mixed media and ATC's too.

The 'Happy Banner' was also made into a stamp using the foam, sadly I got it back to front as I wasn't thinking so I spoilt the lines you would have got if it had been done correctly, but it still looks fairly good. It really is a good idea to look at everything you have in your collection as you can really make your goodies go further and work for you and your crafting.

Here is the stamp made with one of the Hexagons, masked and filled. Like I said yesterday this is a great little project to do to get your crafty mojo back, either stamping inside or even a little bit of doodling. Juts take 5 or 10 mins to yourself and I'm sure you feel better for it. More ideas on the video.

The last thing to share with you today is this finished card, which I made in the video. The colours are Picked Raspberry and Faded Jeans, the 2 mixed together give a lovely soft purple blend. The stamps are from the Paisley Palace stamp set, but there are other stamps that work well for this, depending on who and what your project is for. There are some perfect stamps in the Floral Harmony and Floral Companions Sets. There are some beautiful colour combinations that can really change the look and feel of the finished project.

Thats all for now, just to remind you about the shows on Sunday with Leonie on Hochanda, they are at 3pm and 7pm and will be a lot of fun. Before I go, the code for a 35% discount over on my Etsy Store is THANKS35. It's valid across the whole store until the end of the month. Take care and I hope to see you tomorrow for some more Crafting. Take care and Stay Safe.

3rd Anniversary and a New Video

Hi everyone, This month marks the 3rd Anniversary of Craftascope. Yes it's 3 years since I first appeared on Hochanda with the very first Craftascope Collection. Since then, there have been 10 and the lovely Lou Withers launched the last one for me in September. I really can't believe how quickly the years have passed. Leonie Pujol will be spinning her magic this Sunday with a wide selection of Craftascope goodies, there's something to suit everybody. Don't miss her shows at 3pm & 7pm, There really are some 'not to be missed' offers to be had along with some back in stock items that might not last. I hope you will join ,e at 8.30 UK time for this new video.

As I have said before I really have missed you all so much over the last few months. I would really have loved to visit Hochanda to share a couple of hours crafting with you. But sadly with things the way they are, it just wasn't possible. I am thrilled that Leonie kindly offered to do these shows for me. It's always good to see just how versatile the products are. How to use them in a totally different way.to achieve a wide variety of looks for your crafting.

It's been an incredibly difficult year for everyone this year, but how wonderful to see a little light at the end of the tunnel. Having been in regular contact with some of you it's been a great comfort to me. It's been a very lonely year, so I'd like to thank those of you who have kept in touch, it's made  all the difference.

It's been such a shame that I have not been around as much as normal, a few of you will know the reasons. Sadly my health hasn't been good and has deteriorated over the last few months, so it's just not been possible to spend so much time keeping my blog up to date.

Like a lot of small businesses I have struggled through the year and not being able to travel has meant my Hochanda Shows have not been possible either. I have never been the sort of person to share my problems or ask for support or help, but I have to admit that with my health \s it is and reduction in sales has been incredibly difficult to cope with. Quite a few people have asked how or if they could help, at the moment the best way to help me, would be to treat yourself to some Craftascope goodies.

It's hard to say and normally I wouldn't but just lately everything seems to be going wrong for me, I just keep telling myself that things will soon turnaround, so hopefully they will.

Please do bear in mind when shopping online, every country is warning pf postal delays, due to lack of transport, illness and self isolating. I would like to let you know that I am still packing and posting within 2 days and normally the same day, but the delays are put of my control. If you would like to buy anything from Craftascope, here is a voucher offering 35% off (THANKS35). Feel free to share it with Friends and Family. Every single order means a lot to me and makes a difference.

Do keep a look out on Facebook and my Youtube Channel this week, I will be adding more videos, showing off just a few of the products along with some card ideas, hints and tips. And don't forget to join Leonie on Sunday.

One last thing, I will be running a big Giveaway on the Hochanda Facebook Page. It's due to go live on the 25th, so good luck to you all. Take care and Happy Crafting.xxx

BLACK FRIDAY WEEKEND FRENZY

So Friends & Crafters, Black Friday is fast approaching, Tomorrow in fact. I have made sure there's something for everyone in the Craftascope Etsy Store with saving up to 60%. As it's the first time I have been able to join in, I have to say I am excited about it. I've included a selection of projects in this blog, just some of the creations you could make with some of the items on offer. The offers end on Monday at midnight, there isn't an endless supply, so once they have sold out, they can't be replaced.

It's been sad for me losing a few of the Craftascope items, especially the ones recently on Hochanda as I can't get them back. I do hope you will take advantage of the substantial savings, while they are still available. I have included as much as I possibly can in this event, so it's a great time to fill in the gaps in your Craftascope collection, or simply treat yourself. while the value is even greater.

There are lots of exciting things happening at the moment, I'm expanding the Design Team and look forward to seeing the creations from the applicants. You know I love to see what people are making, I look forward to introducing the new additions. We have Christmas around the corner and then the New Year 2020, I cant quite believe how fast the time is flying by.

There are plenty of Tutorials covering everything in the Craftascope range, from the very first collection, with many more coming very soon. You can find them right here on the blog and on the Craftascope Youtube Channel, there is a link above for that as well as one for the Etsy store.

If there is any specific product you would like to see demonstrated or have any requests please leave your comments on the most recent video and I will include them as soon as I possibly can. For Now take care and Happy Crafting.xx

Monkeys Back with some Samples From the Design Team

Hi Everyone. For all of you that have been waiting for and have been asking, I am happy to tell you that Monkey has joined me today in a new video. Although the minute I hit the record button, all I got was finger biting. Today I wanted to share some of the samples from the Design Team.

I am extremely lucky with my wonderful Design Team, they do an amazing job and across the team there are so many different styles, which suits the Craftascope range perfectly. I love to bring you variety and they never disappoint. Sadly during the shows, there just isn't the time to show them all. So this time I decided to bring back a small selection to show them in more detail. Below is the link for the New Video, which will start at 4 pm (UK Time) See you there?

If you have not seen it yet. I have decided to share the love this week, I've added a limited number of Triskaidecagon Dies with a 50% discount until Friday 6th September or while stocks last. Thanks to a Customer we have a new slang phrase for them 'Tricky Dickie' Dies. This really is an amazing offer, which I don't think I will be able to repeat. They have been going fast so please dont delay if you want these Unique but essential sets, I know from Numbers that they are not going to last until Friday.The Card blank below is made from the dies.

Just a reminder as well, The New Giveaway is underway now. The lucky winner will receive My Brand New Collection 'Splinters In Time' Coming soon. It's very easy to be in with a chance, All you have too do is leave a review for any purchase made from my Etsy Store, so good luck to you all. For now Take Care and Happy Crafting.xxx

Introducing Terri Gifford to The Craftascope Design Team

Morning Friends and Crafters. The time has come for me to share the last new member of the Craftascope Design Team. I hope you have enjoyed the introductions, They work so hard behind the scenes to share the most amazing projects and Creations. It's important to me to give them credit as they really bring the collections to life. It's like Christmas for me when I get to open the parcels and boxes, it's a real pleasure to share them with you during the shows and afterwards when they are shared on Facebook. So today, Last but by no means least, I am introducing Terri Gifford, here is what she would like to say and some of her Creations:

Hiya, My name is Terri Gifford, and this is a little bit about myself.  I am originally from Ohio, USA  but have lived all over the US and now have been in London for the past 10 years.  My mom always teased me that if I ever made it to the UK I would never want to go back... I guess she was right. 

I have been crafting for as long as I can remember.  I used to do macramé, ceramics and cross stitch with my mom and I always had a love for miniature doll houses.  I remember that I used to want to build and design my dolls houses instead of playing with them.  

As I grew up I discovered paper crafting, my favourite being lino printing and embossing, any type.  I also collected paper like others collect coins or postage stamps.  As I delved more into lino printing I soon discovered stamp carving which i took to like a duck takes to water...  I still love any sort of embossing and stamps but have now found the world of mixed media and junk journals... woohoo!!!!!

I started my adult adventure with 6 years in the US Navy fixing computer systems.  After that I went to University in San Diego where I received a degree in Fine Arts of Interior Design.  I practiced design for almost 20 years, at which time I had the opportunity to move to London.

Since moving here I have become a dog groomer and now own my own salon in East London.  But, through all of these changes, art and craft have always been there for me, and I try never to be without it.

During my crafting journey I have always tried to combine craft with my love of art and design.  I always wanted to mix the two and am so happy to see that they have finally met in the middle.   Although I love most any sort of crafting, I always return to paper crafting,  I usually bring all the others into paper crafting.  

I am delighted to be selected as one of the newest design team members for Craftascope.  Although I have been doing some sort of art or craft my entire life, I only just recently started to share my makes. I have just started a YouTube channel and am now diving into the world of Instagram and even a blog.  My life will always include art and craft, it is a part of me and my way often expressing myself.  I hope you enjoy my journey as much as I am.

Thank you ever so much Terri, I am sure you will all join me in welcoming Terri to the Craftascope Family.

After the launch of the next collection you will see links at the side of the page to those of the Design Team that have blogs. All of the Design Team Share their creations on Facebook and we in turn will share those Shares. The current design Team are all listed at the side of the blog page, with links to their blogs.

Look out for new videos on my Youtube Channel, Feel fee to subscribe, there is no charge and subscribing means you are among the first to know of new additions. If there is anything you would like to see in the videos or have any questions, please comment below the video. I will do my best to include these as soon as possible. For now Take care and Happy Crafting.xx