Ali Cub Cards

MEME Love!

2007-10-09T01:26:00.000-07:00

ARRGGH! I've been tagged...three times! I will have to do each one seperately over a period of time! I need to think/do some interesting things to be able to complete them :P

The first tag is from the gorgeous Jen AKA Numpty from www.numpty.etsy.com and here are the rules as she sent them to me:

The "facts about you/middle name" meme:

The Rules:
1. If you are tagged, add a new post. Add these rules to that post.
2. Using the individual letters of your middle name, list one word and provide the relating fact. These facts must be relevant to you. If you don't have a middle name, then pick a name you would like to be called.
3. Once you've finished your post, tag one person for each letter of your middle name to play and share the meme-love!

The first problem is.......I don't have a middle name :) Think my parents hated theres so much they decided not to inflict them on us kids :) I am quite pleased I don't have one so, have never thought of what I would like to be called????

So, the name I've decided to use is the one I was very nearly called by my parents instead of Alison.........They were going to call me Kirsty!

Kids....I want one :) We are currently trying to get preggers.

Intelligent....I'm sure I was once! At high school they all thought I was bright and clever and believed I would do well in exams etc. Which I did but, over time my brain seems to have died somewhat!

Red.....as in I go this colour a hell of alot! Often in the late afternoons (No it is not 'the time of life') my cheeks flush up and I begin to resemble Bradley Branning from eastenders with my pasty face and blotchy red cheeks........its such a bad look for anyone to have.

Slimming World......I joined 8 weeks ago and have just lost over a stone in weight :) Wan't to loose about another 6lbs anymore and I worry I will look ill! Its the only diet I've ever been on in my life and think I eat more now than I did before :) I also, discovered the zip on my favourite jeans was not broken I was just so tubby I was pushing the zip down all on my big bellied own! Good news....They are now too big :)

Tango....not the dance the soft drink! I once took part in a radio competition to make a mock advert for the soft drink :) Not sure if anyone remembers the ones that used to start 'Hellooooooooo Tony' in a Geordie accent well, we had to re-record them doing the accents and stuff! The advert was played on our local radio station (Radio city 96.7fm if your interested) never bloody heard it :( and guess what we won?????? A whole £1 and three free cans of the soft drink.....we had to go into Liverpool to pick up the prize so, the £1 was spent on my bus fare!

Yellow.....a colour I cannot wear! It makes me look ill being a bit ginger it plays havoc with my colouring and gives me a jaundiced appearance.

Off to find some tag victims of my own :)

Cosmic

2007-09-16T05:59:00.000-07:00

This week I have been concentrating on my art work again. I wanted to paint a piece that was different from my usual heavy lines and sharp angles. I have always loved the work of Kandinsky and was looking through some of his paintings for inspiration.
So, I decided my starting point would be the circle. Although, it didn't take long for my angular style to show itself again!

The circles were in a neat diagonal line and the background was filling up with lines..... This next photo shows the painting after I had filled in the circles and added a more detailed background.

I was still not completely happy with it at this stage and decided it needed something to soften the backround and to tie it in with the dominating circles! So, I took everything outside loaded my brush with paint and flicked it all over the canvas......Should have taken a photo of this! Just hope none of the neighbours where looking! Finally after much flicking of paint and much mess......The finished piece:

It is now available in my etsy store......Cosmos Original Acrylic Painting

Another busy day

2007-09-08T09:35:00.000-07:00

I had another busy afternoon today spent crafting. I've been making more cards for a set I'm going to call 'flowers and friendship' I must be feeling mushy!

I bought some new funky papers a couple of weeks ago and only got them out yesterday to play with. They seem to be quite girly for me and rather pink:

So, the theme of the cards had to be girly and pink too! I've only made three so far and can't decide how many to have in a pack? Possibly four I think! On them they have nice sentiments like 'You make me smile' and 'Have a lovely day' making them suitable for general use or birthdays!

Anyway here's my work in progress for the Crafting 365 ~ Day 6

Long time no blog!

2007-09-07T07:34:00.001-07:00

I can't believe it's been eight whole weeks since I updated my blog! I have really fallen behind. apologies :P Things seem to have been quite hectic at my end and I have only just had time to start 'creating' again!

Where to start? Might as well just introduce my latest projects!

Fellow etsy seller Lupin has recently started a new flickr group called 'Crafting 365' through which some crafty folks are keeping a photo diary of their work for a year! Basically we post one photo showing what we were working on that day :)

Well, I am off to a good start so far.....only on day 5 though! Here are some of my shots so, far:

Crafting 365 ~ Day one

This is my latest project. An original acrylic painting on canvas board.

One thing I noticed is how tidy I am when I paint! Only a little bit missed the canvas :D

Crafting 365 ~ Day Two

1 canvas panel, 7 colours of acrylic paint and seven hours later..........This is the result.

'City Lights' Original acrylic painting.

Crafting 365 ~ Day four

Uploading a day late as could not get near the laptop yesterday evening!

I spent my crafting time cutting out some decoupage fairies :D

Its a really great way to make sure you keep up with what you should be doing and also to see what everyone else is busy creating. Enables you to get an insight into other techniques and styles you are not familiar with. It certainly satisfies the nosey parker inside :)

2007-07-20T08:03:00.000-07:00

Etsy have started an amazing competition to create advertising posters for the site. They are giving people the opportunity to showcase their favourite items with the chance of it being selected to be a poster.

They are using the treasury to do this, a place where people select 9 items (3 reserves) from other sellers shops to display their favourite items, inspirations, things they admire, love, want, etc....It is a great way to find new shops and sellers. You can take a look here....Treasury.

Also, people like myself who are always to slow to nab a treasury we can create our own poster list! Hooray.....

Anyway, I spent a couple of hours searching through items I love, styles and themes and came up with my poster. I have tried to use items from different categories art, paper goods, glass, jewellery, clothing, home wares, etc . The overall look was inspired by my love of primary colours and artists like Kandinsky. Hope you like it.....

To view all the other poster entries check out the flickr site! There are so many beautiful entries......

Swapsies!

2007-07-14T00:48:00.000-07:00

I have been taking part in some swaps recently on Etsy with some of the fantabulous Artisans on there.

AlisClair and I recently exchanged ATC’s (artists trading cards) I sent her an abstract painting from my city scape range and in return I received this:

It is a beautiful textile piece in the most delicious shades of pink and purple. The ATC is titled 'Little Flower' and features an amazing amount of detail and delicate needlework.

I am so envious of her talents! I wish I had studied textiles more at college....Hmmm, maybe I should give it a go?

I also swapped items with the wonderful ArtyAllsorts. In exchange for a Geisha art print, I received this beautiful print of a Tulip after the rain.

The photograph is simply stunning , the colours are lovely and the tiny drops of rain have been captured glistening in the sun perfectly. I am going to be decorating soon and think Artys photographic prints would look perfect in our bedroom. I will be back for more to fill the walls.

Finally, I felt guilty for swapping all these items for presents for myself so, when Lovealittle and Myself exchanged pieces I decided to get something for my sister ‘LizzyCub’. As a trainee primary school teacher I thought this would be a nice, thoughtful and practical gift which she would be able to use in school. How amazing is this..

From the photos you simply cannot understand how cool this piece is! I have been playing with him for days now and my sister will be lucky to even see him let alone own him.

2007-07-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

I've been really busy painting in the last couple of weeks. Thanks to the rain there has been not much else to do!

I've started a series of paintings inspired by the changing seasons. When all four are completed I intend to create notecards and prints from them.

Here's what I've created so far:

Just spring to make now......

Fairytales

2007-06-26T12:26:00.000-07:00

This month the UK Etsy Challenge subject was simply 'Fairytales' and my imagination went wild! Then I thought realistically about what I could and couldn't manage!

I drew inspiration from my favourite stories as a child and recalled how I used to copy the illustrations from the books.....pencil drawings it had to be! I originally chose four fairytales 'Cinderella' (my fave film used to be 'The Slipper and the Rose' with Richard Chamberlain and Gemma Craven!) 'Alladin', 'Snow White' and saving the best until last 'The Princess and the Pea'....

I wanted to create something which suggested a darker and even more mundane side to 'fairytales'. So, heavy pencil drawings lent themselves well to this and made a refreshing change to my usual bright cheery images and notecards.

The first images I drew were the mirror from 'Snow White' and the lamp from 'Aladdin' as small ACEO's (artists cards which measure a tiny 2 1/2" x 3 1/2")

I was really pleased with them until I started on the other illustrations!

The next pieces I drew were inspired by 'Cinderella' and I actually like raggy Cinders best and actually imagine living in the kitchens with a nice open fire, fresh veg and mice for pets to be quite nice actually! Hence the reason for my rather unglamorous take on 'Cinderella'

The next illustration is my favourite and really the only one I could choose when thinking of 'The Princess and the Pea' A favourite as a child the imagery has stayed with me and it's such a fantastic tale!

These inital illustrations have since become prints and a set of notecards to form my entries into the challenge. Here are the finished articles.....

My challenge entries have been submitted to the Flickr group along with all the others and voting for peoples favourites will be opened at the end of the month! I'll be sure to blog about the winners and display there work too!

Swap

2007-06-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

I blogged recently about the great UK Etsy swap and what wonderful items I received. Well, my swap partner has received her goodies and so, I can now share what I sent!

My swap partner was Greygoat the talented maker of fabulous undies! Her likes were as follows:

Likes: black, white, red, grey, retro stuff, stationery, atomic power (got to throw that in there!!), kimono, bold graphic prints, anything to do with typefaces or letters etc, anything shoes/clothes related is usually a winner.

So, here are the items I made for her based on these:

The Geisha is my favourite and is actually an original painting, I was really pleased with the way it turned out. So much in fact I have started selling cards with prints of a similar painting in my shop.

Must also advise a visit to Greygoats shop for some lovely pants or accessories.

The Talented Nonsuch

2007-06-08T09:52:00.000-07:00

My Dilema............Favourite dress ruined by the evil moth!
My brief................Save my favourite dress from the bin.
My Hero................Nonsuch

I recently took my favorite dress of all time out to wear and to my absloute horror found small holes in it! After much deliberating and consultation with a wise lady (my mum :D) I found the small holes were created by the devils spawn........i.e. the moth! (technically I think it's the moths eggs but, it's too yacky to think about)

Well, what's a girl to do? Throw away the dress and spend the next ten years trying to find one I like just as much? Or, turn to the talented folk of Etsy for help? No contest..........

I knew immediately who could save the day. Having admired her work for quite some time I e-mailed and asked if the lovely Nonsuch could custom make me my very own doodle. Not a problem she said and within just a few days she worked miracles and created me a lovely brooch (or, doodle in Non speak :D) to save my dress from life in a landfill!

Nonsuch is one talented lady and lots of different treasures can be found in her shop! So pay her a visit when your next after a treat for yourself or a present for a friend.

Etsy Swap Joy

2007-06-05T12:33:00.000-07:00

Two posts in one day, I must be ill!

Anyway, I recently took part in the second UK Etsy Swap. This basically works like secret santa, we are given a fellow Etsy seller to create an item for based on their likes and dislikes.

I received my lovely parcel today from the amazing artisan Sneddonia and she made me two beautiful gifts. Firstly this pretty necklace which features an cute wire and bead heart. The beads are green.....my favourite colour :D

and secondly this Suncatcher featuring lovely blue beads. It is gorgeous and the colours match my living room perfectly which, considering she has never seen my house is amazing.

I haven't posted my swap parcel yet! I intend to do this tomorrow and when it's been received safe and sound I will post photos of the items I have sent. I am a bit worried just incase they do not like the items I have made for them :P Quite scary......

A huge thank you must also go to the wonderful lady Askey who spent hours arranging this swap, pairing us up and chasing people for replies and addressess (yes, I forgot to provide an address..........stupid!)

Stupid me

2007-06-05T12:28:00.000-07:00

I need to check my blog more often.....I've been neglecting it again! I recently changed the settings to moderate comments and never checked back....D'oh!

Well, about 15 days ago I was tagged by the lovely Bunny and only found out today :P
Now need to reveal 7 things about me! This may take a while so be patient! I am trying to think of smonething wonderfully witty and funny.......trust me you'll be disappointed.

Treasury Talent

2007-05-27T00:12:00.000-07:00

I was just minding my own business browsing through the treasury when I spotted the title 'Industrial Chic II' and I new it was for me!

The list has been compiled by fellow Etsian Passementerie who obviously has a really good eye for talent and striking images. It's the best treasury I've seen for quiet a while and deserves to hold the coveted front page spot, which sadly it does not (at the moment anyway) So, instead I thought I'd highlight it's beauty and the talent of the clever artists on Etsy here.

The artists are here listed in order of the items above..........

lake, MollyBurkett, found
pleasebloom, jewelryfool, jlsphotoworks
ohannamarie, found, opaque
gdesign, loopityloopglam, deedledumpling

New image!

2007-05-13T06:03:00.000-07:00

I've decided my shop is far too pink and girly!

I decided a while ago not to just stock cards and have been slowly adding art work to my shop. So, I need a new image! I have spent the whole morning playing with designs, styles, colours, etc and have finally settled on something more balanced. It reflects my style better than the old banner and as I am so crap on computers I am really pleased with the outcome......

and while I'm at it may as well change my avatar!

All systems go.........

2007-05-07T02:03:00.000-07:00

Sundays are usually for relaxing, chilling out, lazing around the house. Well, except for yesterday! I had a fantastic day and a rather productive one. I spent the whole day making new cards for my etsy shop........Here's a shot of my chaos I make when I work.....

And most importantly the results are shown here:

There is more but, I'll save them for another time! Now, just need to resist temptation to list them all in one go in my shop..........

Tick Tock

2007-05-01T23:03:00.001-07:00

Tick Tock, originally uploaded by alicub.

This is my latest treasury featuring the work of many talented Etsians and their interpretations and different uses for clocks.

The artists featured are Imagine Studios, Timothy Adam Designs, Oppulent Oddities, Roger J Porter, Art and Ghosts, The Eclectic Studio, Geek Gear, Talula, Artsy, The Hands of Fatima, Abhayah, The Domino Effect

Change of direction

2007-04-27T23:57:00.000-07:00

I've been filling my shop more recently with art work, which is a slight change in direction for myself! I am contemplating changing the name of my Etsy store from Alicub Cards to something else.......haven't decided what though! Comment here if you've any suggestions otherwise it will end up being something really creative like..........Alicub Cards & Art!

These are the art works I've listed so far

10 things about me

2007-04-15T08:52:00.000-07:00

I must thank SakuraFubukiDesigns for 'tagging' me! I have not yet tagged anyone else to complete there '10 things about me' list. So, if you wanna be tagged comment and let me know!

Ok! Where to begin? I have actually found this really difficult! I want to be all witty and interesting but sadly I am not . Although, I do tend to waffle a bit.....Sorry.

Anyway here are 10 things you probably don't know about me........

1 I once had an unexplained limp for about six weeks! Aged about six I started limping, numerous trips to the doctors and hospital but no-one could explain it. My parents thought I was faking it and spied on me at to catch me out.....little did they realise how good an actress I was. One day, I got bored and stopped :D

2 I had shingles as a child aged about seven. They hurt like hell! Very uncommon amongst youngsters as associated with stress! (little bit of a worrier was I) I vividly recall being taken into school by my Mum to pick up some work to do at home and the teacher making me lift up my blouse (and vest of course!) to show the whole class my scabby back!!!!!! I still blush thinking about it.

3 I am a fussy eater! The only meat I eat is chicken (only hot)and bacon (got to be burnt to a crisp) I don't like boiled veg only steamed, I hate fish, I don't like sauce.......I could go on. I do however love cheese! Nothing fancy just a nice mature cheddar :D I have had cheese sandwiches (no margarine thanks) for lunch nearly everyday of my life..............

4 The love of cheese may also explain fact no. 4. I have odd dreams. The most memorable being just recently.......

I dreamt I was really tired whilst trying to feed a gold fish. You know the sort of tired when you just can't keep your eyes open. My head was resting on the edge of the goldfish bowl as it was simply to heavy to move. The fish decided to bite down hard on my nose, huge razor sharp teeth sunk deep into the flesh and all I could do was lye there. I managed to lift my arm and grab the goldfish either side of his mouth but, didn't have the energy to squeeze his clamped jaw open! So, I spent the rest of the dream with a fish attached to my nose!

5 I met my husband Paul at work. Went on a date and one month later we moved in together! On our three month anniversary he proposed with a Haribo jelly ring ( I still have it all hard and covered in fluff)
6 The first present Paul ever bought me was a Zorbing experience! It's basically a huge inflatable Hamster wheel, they strap you in and push you down a hill.............Never felt so ill in all my life! It took about two days for my brain to stop rattling around but, at least I didn't vomit............Paul kept that for himself :D

7 I am currently addicted to Guitar Heroes on the Xbox 360 at which I am poo! But please note the look of shear concentration on my face!!!!

8 I have still not decided what I want to do when I grow up! Perhaps librarian or florist. Or, maybe even a lorry driver like long distance Clara!

9 I love films! We have a DVD library of about 400 films................I like horror, comedy, thriller, allsorts! My real faves though are Marilyn Monroe films especially 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes' I love it...................

10 Last but not least but, definitely most embarrassing! I still bite my nails. Nothing wrong with that you think? Well there is when it's your feet too :D

Concrete..........An unusual obsession!

2007-04-13T23:48:00.000-07:00

For about nine years I have obsessed with painting buildings! I love them. Not just any buildings though, I prefer nice big concrete structures! Good old grey, concrete..........ugly to most but, I think they are beautiful.

I was truly inspired when I learnt of Le Corbusier. I think the buildings he designed are stunning.

The tiny rows of windows, the solidness of the exterior........I love it! You know those huge council built blocks of flats.....ugly? Never! Next time take another look they are secretly a work of art.....

This one is inspiring for the many angles, the colours used and the different perspectives it creates. This influence can easily be seen in my work!

This is an original acrylic painting that is available in my Etsy store. I have also made a similar painting and added it to my greetings cards. This idea came from fellow Etsy artist Memake She saw a painting on Flickr and suggested I try it on my cards..........Thank you Memake.

Sunshine!

2007-04-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

In honour of this lovely, beautiful and sunny weekend I created this treasury on Etsy

The items chosen remind me of long lazy summer days and make me smile! The sellers items featured are from the following talented artists from Etsy
Flowering Photography , Art of Andrew Daniel , Calobee
Organic Rhapsody, Norah62, Honeybeedz
Buden Art, Galerie Illuminata, TT Jewelry by Christine
Brooklyn Butterfly, Karizmadesigns, Crimson Orchid

A Few More favourites.....UK SALE!

2007-04-02T00:30:00.000-07:00

Well it's early on day two of the ETSY sale and I thought I would show off some more of my favourite items.

These amazing gloves are by KnitHappens. They are special little gloves called 'Morkers' as they are inspired by that great TV show 'Mork and Mindy'. They are great fun, who could resist those colours!

Knithappens sells a wide variety of gloves from traditional to fingerless to morkers! All this week she is offering free worldwide shipping so pop in and browse!

Another person who is handy with a pair of knitting needles is Memake

This adorable bag has been lovingly knitted with soft Rowan cotton then adorned with ribbon and buttons.

Memake has a wide range of items in her store not all knitted goods either. She sells everything from bags & purses, jewellery and homewares. During sale week she is knidly offering a free gift to each buyer!

First day of sale!

2007-04-01T13:08:00.000-07:00

It's been a great start to the sale all round :)I have sold a set of cards and bought a stunnning necklace from fellow Etsy seller Gillyflower

She is currently offering free shipping on all items in her shop. Some real gems are to be found inside so go and take a peek.......

If you have a slightly darker sense of humour and are after something fun and gorgeous may I recommend The Devils Wallpaper

She has prints, fine art and dolls for sale and for the sale week she is offering 10% off all purchases. Take for example this 'Flying Butt Monkey Art Doll' it's great!

There really is something for everyone.............For the most up to date list of sale participants and information check out the UK Etsy Sale Thread

2007-03-31T09:48:00.000-07:00

The sale of the century begin tomorrow! All the shops listed below are participating and offering a variety of promotions, discounts or free goods.

You can link to the shops directly or visit Etsy and type "uksale" in the search bar for tags and descriptions...........

alicub - 10% off every order
amandawilliamsdesign - 10% discount off every order
askey - free card with every order
beadeliciousbaby - 10% off + free shipping
beadnut - free gift worth $5 with each order
Bebopgirl1969jewelry - 10% discount off every order
binageyer - free shipping + free gift
BlueMarmalade - 15% discount off every order
Daintybeads - free shipping
Feltathome - free gift with every order

gilfling - free shipping + free gift for orders over $40
gillyflower - free shipping
gorjuss - free buttons with every purchase over $20
honeybeedz - buy one, get 50% off the second item
hoolala - free shipping
inkyminx - free shipping
japancrafts - free Japanese gift with every sale
kezzaroo - free uk shipping + small gift
knithappens - free priority shipping with tracking worldwide
knittygritty - free shipping

knitwit - free uk shipping
konyskiw - free UK shipping, half price shipping for rest of world
kookyboutique - free gift with every order
koolkookykreatures - free gift with every order
LaLaFelt - free uk shipping
LAMdesigns - free shipping
lilley - 15% off (does not include shipping)
littlemissriver - free UK shipping & half price shipping to the US
lupin - free small spring flower pin with every order over $5
madebymilla - free gift with every order

madebythem - 10% off every order

meltedfabrics - free gift with every purchase
memake - free gift with every purchase
nonsuch - free shipping with every purchase
numpty - free shipping with every order
poketto - 10% discount off every order
reform - free shipping
SakuraFubukiDesigns - 10% discount + free shipping
seaurchin - 10% discount off every order
slumbergirldesigns - 10% discount + free gift

Stitchworks - half price shipping
sugarcane - 15% off every order
pinkswizzlestick - free shipping
sweetdreamsdesigns - free shipping & mini print with each order
thedevilswallpaper - 10% discount (request revised invoice in notes to sellers box)
tiinateaspoon - free gift with each order
travellinglight - free UK shipping
urbanknit - 10% discount off every order
vickiward - free gift with every order
wildcatdesigns - free gift with every order

2007-03-31T06:36:00.000-07:00

The great

Etsy

UK spring sale starts tomorrow for one week. Hope you've saved you pennies ready!

Pants Challenge!

2007-03-17T01:20:00.000-07:00

The 'Brief' was simple!

The challenge is to create a pair of pants (knicker's, drawers - call them what you will!) Entries can be in any medium (felt, knitted, beaded, sculpted...) and don't actually have to be wearable - just need to look like pants! An entry fee was donated to Comic Relief and here are the winners............................................

1st Prize went to this wonderfully detailed creation by miss Bunny. You can see more of her work for sale in her Etsy Store

Bunny

2nd place went to SeaUrchin for these stunning his and hers brooches. See more of her talent for sculpture in her Etsy store

Seaurchin

3rd prize went to these felt pants featuring MR T created by the wonderful Kezzaroo. Check out her Etsy store for lots of mini felt people, they are amazing

Kezzaroo

To see all the other amazing entries into the pants challenge check out our Flickr group

UK Pants Challenge

Etsy Mini

2007-03-11T11:24:00.001-07:00

RED NOSE DAY

2007-03-07T23:50:00.000-08:00

This bead necklace is by TheDevilsWallpaper and has been inspired by Tibetan Jewellery. The beads have all been handmade using polymer clay and are hard to believe they are not the real thing.

All proceeds from this sale are being donated to Comic Relief for more info. visit

The Devils Wallpaper

This second necklace is by Eclectic B and has been made using a mixture of thick silver wire, seed beads,lampwork beads and silvercore lampwork beads (nickel free). EclecticB is also offering free shipping on this item.

All proceeds from the sale will be donated to Comic Relief for more info visit

EclecticB

These gorgeous bright red earrings are by Gilly Flower and Feature gorgeous large red wooden beads (18mm) nestling between sparkly swarovski crystals.

All proceeds from the sale will be donated to Comic Relief for more info visit

Gilly Flower

Etsy on the Tele!

2007-02-28T13:46:00.001-08:00

Etsy was in the news in America after some reporters visited the Etsy Lab. It's a great little interview and shows a little bit more what Etsy is about! Check it out here

WCBS TV

ETSY Greetings

2007-02-26T13:24:00.000-08:00

Check out this great new blo called etsygreetings.blogspot.com It features all the talented greetings card sellers on Etsy. Each day on the blog they show a different sellers work. It is a really good example of all the different styles an dcreations available and more importantly a great place to start your shopping!

Etsy Greetings

They kindly featured one of my pieces of work today!

UK Sale

2007-02-24T13:56:00.000-08:00

Here is a nice early warning to start saving your pennies for the biggest and best sale of the year!

Lot's of the UK Etsy sellers have got together to create a special spring sale during the week of 1st - 8th April. There will be loads of offers ranging from free shipping to money off. It will be the ideal opportunity for you to 'BUY HANDMADE' and discover the wealth of talent the UK has to offer.

In my store

AliCub Cards

I will be offering 10% off every purchase. So, make a note in your diary, save your pennies and pop in! I will bring you more details nearer to the time of other stores involved and how to find us!

UK Business Cards

2007-02-22T03:11:00.000-08:00

Look at all this UK talent! We arranged an Etsy UK Business card swap and these are all the amazing cards I received!

Check out there stores at http://etsy.com

Temptation

2007-02-18T12:42:00.000-08:00

I have been itching to spend sooo much money recently on Etsy. Trust me, it's really difficult to resist the temptation. So, I thought I would share my temptations with you all.

Firstly, the original temptation....

This little duo are of course, Adam and Eve. Made by the very talented and witty Kezzaroo, Adam and Eve are little felt brooches.

I adore these two! They would be a great little gift for you and your loved one or a present for someone's wedding or anniversary.

Kezzaroo can be found at http://kezzaroo.etsy.com and believe
me her shop is worth a visit to read the descriptions of her listings and to meet the ninjas!

I really needed these little fngerless gloves today! My hands were freezing!!!!

They have been knitted by a lovely lady whose shop is called Knithappens. At the minute these are my favourite gloves in her shop.

If you fancy something a little bit different though, check out her 'morks' They are the cutest three fingered gloves you will ever see. Her shop can be found at http://knithappens.etsy.com

Nonsuch is a fairly new seller to Etsy and has some beautiful pieces in her shop.

I love this wool 'Dahlia' corsage it looks amazing next to the green of the cushion in this photo. As Nonsuch says herself :

'A big, bright, burnt-orange merino wool corsage. Looks just as good on a handbag or cushion, as it does on your coat!
Brooch pin on the back.'

Nonsuch can be found at http://nonsuch.etsy.com

Next time you feel like a serious spend (or, a window shop!) pay Etsy a visit and you will findsomething unique, something beautiful and something a little bit different.

Men!

2007-02-06T14:27:00.000-08:00

Men! Bless them always a problem to buy for....Well, I am starting a new range of male orientated cards to make life a little easier

This set of two original art notecards can be purchased in my Etsy store and can be personalised free of charge.......

Do you always forget people's birthdays? Keep these to hand and you'll never be caught out! One card is designed for girls and the other with boys in mind...Ideal!

New designs

2007-01-31T09:48:00.000-08:00

I have been creating like mad recently! I cannot stop....... I've had my paints out and been experimenting with different styles. This has to be my favourite item so far

It must have been good only on sale for about 10 mins. before someone snapped it up!

Also, been making some floral notecards. These cute 'Thank you' cards are among my latest....

They are so new not even for sale yet!! So, bookmark my shop to buy them later

I Love You!

2007-01-21T08:58:00.000-08:00

What better way to say 'I Love you' than by giving a handmade card and gift! Nobody else will know you bought them.......

In my Etsy store now are lots of cards to choose from. For example here is an original watercolour painting of lot's of love........Costing just $2 (just over £1!!!)

Again, this is an original watercolour painting featured
on this card. 'BEE mine?' asks this cute little bee. Both cards would be great keepsakes for your Valentine and could be framed as mini art works afterwards.

Also available are a series of poetry inspired Valentine cards I have made for the more traditional romantics..........

If you are looking for gifts too visit Etsy as it has the most talented artists and everything is original as it's handmade. Here a few examples:

This lovely olive green heart necklace is from Gillyflower she has the most stunning jewellery that you instantly fall in love with.

http://gillyflower.etsy.com

For something a little bit different and more unusual pay a visit to the DevilsWallpaper. Her store if full of unique water colour paintings and art cards.

http://TheDevilsWallpaper.etsy.com

You can pay any of the stores a visit by using the links on the right! Thanks for looking......

Happy New Year

2007-01-02T08:34:00.000-08:00

Happy new year and welcome to 2007
Now is an amazing time to find yourself some bargains on etsy.com as many of the artists are having new year sales. Here are couple of my favourite bargains:

This beautiful necklace is available from a shop called ishdesigns and is reduced to just $13.00 (about £6.65) and it has free shipping to anywhere in the world.

http://ishdesigns.ety.com is based in Australia and has the most gorgeous Japanese influenced jewellery....it is well worth a visit.

This cute floral wallet is reduced to an unbelievable $5.00 (approx. £2.55) It was created by Yoli who has stunning bags and purses in her shop. Visit her at http://yoli.etsy.com and grab yourself a treat as all her snap purses (like the one pictured) are just $5.00.....

Craftical Collective

2006-12-14T09:26:00.000-08:00

The 'Craftical Collective' are a group of four very talented girls from LIverpool. I discovered there work at etsy.com. Between them there is a jeweller, a bead stringer, seed-bead artist and they can paint and make soap too!!!!!!! There really is no end to their talents.

This beautifully detailed and delicate fabric chocker retails at just $10 which is about £5.00. It is made from
soft black fabric which is adorned with delicately frayed hot pink and green organza. The detail added in the centre is a small cluster of faux pearls.

This is a really striking pendant made of sea glass encased artistically in sterling silver wire.
What makes this piece more interesting is the story (or mystery?) behind the sea glass. The stone was found washed up on Crosby beach in Liverpool (currently home to the stunning Anthony Gormley statues) and only it knows of it's amazing journey to those shores! The piece is available at $30 which is about £15.25

This stunning bag is also made by the 'Craftical Collective'
It was made from a pair of unworn jeans that needed a new purpose in life! It is decorated with a complimentary design of circles sewn in pretty orange silk thread for an amazing result. At just $20 or £10 it is really amazing!

This beautifully detailed bracelet is made from a staggering 150 beads on a gunmetal chain. The amount of work that has gone into making this beautiful piece is simply amazing and the girls are selling it for just $30 or about £15.25.

The girls will also happily take on bespoke work making unique hand crafted items especially for you. So, please visit there shop for a browse around and bookmark it for any future visits....

crafticalcollective.etsy.com

or, simply click on their shop link on the right!!

Hungry?

2006-12-04T14:50:00.000-08:00

I am now sick of Christmas! It is everywhere!!! Does everyone put there decorations up earlier and earlier?

Must apologise for feeling all Scroodge like today in my rebellion I am dreaming of nice non-seasonal items!

Like these yummy cakes..........

Not long now!

2006-11-28T04:17:00.001-08:00

Still not bought you christmas cards?

These lovely poinsettia cards are now only $12 for five in my etsy store

Or, how about these gorgeous pink bauble
cards for just $10 for five? They are also
available in blue.....

Or maybe even these pretty angel cards...

They are $10 for three original hand drawn and painted! After christmas they could be framed and kept as miniature original works of art!

What makes all these even more special.....they are free shipping to anywhere in the world! Bargain!!!!

http://alicub.etsy.com or click on the AliCub Cards link

SPECIAL OFFERS!!!

2006-11-26T11:17:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling festive.....All seasonal greetings cards in my etsy shop are currently free shipping to any where in the world.

I have Christmas cards, holiday cards and blank cards suitable for the festive season whatever you celebrate.......

Visit my shop by clicking on the link opposite....

If you don't see the colour, design or quantity you require.......just contact me and I'll see what I can do.

Numpty

2006-11-18T15:09:00.000-08:00

I would like to introduce you to the wonderful world of Numpty.

This fellow etsy seller has the most fantastic imagination making jewellery from novelty items. Like this really cool Scrabble tile hairclip.

These Lego brick cufflinks are another favourite of mine....I am eyeing them up for a christmas pressie for my husband. He would adore them.

The prices are ridiculously reasonable!! With the majority of her creations being $8 - $10. If anyone is stuck for gift ideas give her store a visit you will not be disappointed.

http://numpty.etsy.com
click on the link on the right to numptyland.......
Although the prices are given in dollars Numpty is based in the UK but, ships goods internationally.

Obsession!!!

2006-11-18T07:44:00.000-08:00

They always say artist become obsessed with one subject/theme...Well, I think it's true.

For about the last fifteen years I have got the most pleasure from painting fruit!?!? I think I may be a little mad... I am obsessed with the colours and textures....

What are you obsessed with????

V2 HOORAY!!!!!!

2006-11-18T07:24:00.000-08:00

Etsy has just launched V2 (version two!)

It is bigger and better than ever before...... If you haven't visited us yet come and see....

Now is the ideal time to get all your christmas gifts.

2006-10-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

Here's my latest piece of work! It is the second painting listed in my shop.... I like it..What do you think?! It is an ink drawing which I have then painted using delicate watercolours.

About me!!

2006-10-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

I suppose I should really tell a little about me! I am 29 years old and live on the wirral in the UK. I live my husband of two years and life treats us well....
I have a proper job during the day but, in my spare time I like to exercise my creative side. I studied art at university and after graduating promptly stopped doing anything remotely artist!!!

My creative juices started flowing again when I got married and in an effort to save some cash I decided to make all the invites, table plan, favours, etc.

Rather vainly heres a piccie of me on our wedding day...(Well, I wasn't going to post a horrid one was I?)

Anyway, one thing led to another and after some persuasion I opened my Etsy shop!! I decided to start this blog as a way to promote my etsy shop....hence, the fact that all my previous posts have been about my work. I also, want to use it as way to promote other artists work which I like and other Etsy sellers.

2006-10-21T15:51:00.000-07:00

This is my new shop banner design, I spent most of the day trying to sort it out. It took ages, I am hopeless on computers!!!!!!!!!!! Anyway, looks good in my shop...

Do you believe in Fairies???

2006-10-15T02:16:00.000-07:00

Believe in the Fairies who make dreams come true, Believe in the wonder the stars and the moon, Believe in the magic from the faeries above. They dance on the flowers and sing songs of love, And if you believe and always stay true, the faeries will be there to watch over you.
Author Unknown....

Here are one of my latest pieces of work!! Little notecards I have handstamped with delicate silver ink and then painted in watercolours.

Halloween

2006-10-12T11:20:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love it....

Spooky!!

My work

2006-10-12T11:07:00.000-07:00

I have just opened my very own shop...HOORAY!!!
It's on a wonderful website called Etsy. On it you'll find hundreds of really creative people crafting and making
all sorts of things!

Here on my Blog spot are some examples of my work. I hand make greetings cards and Notecards for all occasions.

At the minute I am a little obsessed with Christmas well, it's not long to go know.......