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Inkscape Cutting Forum

2011-08-13T00:44:00.001+01:00

Unfortunately we appear to have a problem with our forum at the moment, we are working to get it back online ASAP; so please be patient.......

All is back to normal for now........

From SVG to GSD

2011-03-25T06:34:00.004Z

There has always been a problem with opening a DXF file from Inkscape into the Robomaster software, and the new Silhouette Studio is still quite unstable in opening a DXF file; until the Silhouette Team come up with a more stable solution here is how I convert an SVG file into a smooth cutting GSD file.

(Click on image for larger view)

Here is the finished cut, Oooop I forgot that I removed the middle of the design that you can download from the link Digital Cuttings above.

Silhouette Studio Auto Tracing

2011-03-21T23:54:00.000Z

This is a Pictorial I did to help another Studio user.....

Silhouette's New Studio Software thats MAC compatible.

2010-09-25T10:31:00.003+01:00

Hi All

I'm sure many of you have been waiting for this new improved software update, which has features similar to my beloved Inkscape that I know I will still use for my designs.

I will try and do Pictorials of some of the features that is available with the new Silhouette Studio Software, first things first here is the link to download the new Software:

http://silhouetteamerica.com/software.aspx

The first Pictorial will show you how to sent a design to cut. (click on image for larger view)

OK the 2nd Pictorial will show you how too import your other GSD files into the Silhouette Library.

(click on image for larger view)

Not all your GSD files will import into your Library, I'm not sure yet if there's a software fault that needs to be corrected.......

Another Blog Page.....

2010-08-22T15:10:00.001+01:00

I tend to jump from project too project, so here's the latest blog explaining my continuing adventures with 3D Renderings!!!!

http://cardsulike-digital3drenderings.blogspot.com/

Whoooo Oooooo A New Forum

2010-07-15T01:11:00.002+01:00

Myself and an Aussie connection have stepped out of our comfort zone and set up a forum to hopefully help Craft Robo, Silhouette and signcut users to use Inkscape to make cuttable files.

There will be a bit of Hit & Miss while we try to sort out the categories, and any suggestions for the forum are welcome; so come on over and join and lets have some cutting fun..........

http://www.inkscapecuttingdesign.com/index.php

How to Convert an SVG design into a Smooooth cutting GSD File Format....

2010-05-13T16:08:00.005+01:00

Ok Folks, the Pictorial has now been transferred to the new forum....

Hi All

2010-04-06T13:37:00.003+01:00

I have changed my mind and decided to use my other blog Digital cuttings to offer FREE SVG and GSD Files, you can get too the blog here ...Enjoy........

How too change the Default Cutline Colour.....

2010-01-21T06:15:00.004Z

Hi All the info has now been transferred to the new forum......See link above....

How too change a Jpeg in Inkscape 0.47......

2009-12-23T19:32:00.005Z

Info can now be found on the New Inkscape Cutting Forum, link posted above.....

0.47 Inkscape Cut Settings for both Craft Robo and Silhouette owners......

2009-12-18T06:13:00.005Z

Info can now be found on the New Inkscape Cutting forum link is above......

Thank You Cards for Sister Rosaline....

2009-12-08T17:07:00.000Z

Sister Rosaline asked me to make her 2 Thank You cards for 2 different people, and I have to admit that making Thank You cards really taxed my imagination so I had to rely on a few QK templates that I purchased......

Click on image for larger view........

Happy 18th Birthday Ikenna.....

2009-12-08T16:54:00.001Z

Was asked to make an 18th Birthday card featuring his football team, a football and a boot. Despite the fact that I had a small amount of silicone glue left to produce the 3d effect, trust me when I say that I squeezed that tube DRY.........

Click on image for larger view...........

Whoo Hooo..........

2009-12-08T16:39:00.001Z

I have just uploaded a few of my SVG designs on the Craftsuprint website here, a lot of the files are just Nesties for layering on cards or scrapbooking frames; your imagination will determine what you use them for Enjoy.....

Sample of New Page settings.....

2009-11-29T20:43:00.001Z

I'm so excited about the Inkscape larger cutting area, I made a card using the old page cutting setting; and then I made a card with the new page cutting settings...

Ooo What a Day for a Wedding......

2009-11-14T19:36:00.002Z

Was aked to make a Wedding Card for today, and all night long there was nothing but the sound of heavy rainfall, thunder and wind. Hope today's Wedding turns out OK. As usual my favourite Wedding template can be found here on the CD called Crystal Dreams which is a steal for the amount of designs included. As usual my favourite Pearlescent papers were used for the Wording, figures and flourish pattern inside the card. I used a patterned gold foiled embossed vellum paper for the dress and jacket then Black vinyl for the hair. Final embellishments were the paper roses and some Bling......

Click on image for larger view.........

Back for now....

2009-11-13T18:20:00.002Z

Had a little Internet problem, not convinced it is fixed yet so need to get these cards on quickly. Another Arty Farty Bottle Template, a revamped Vampiress card Halloween card and a QK Designer template version.

Click on images for larger view...........

More QK Silhouette Template Designs.......

2009-10-24T07:24:00.001+01:00

Have to keep my hand in when it comes to the Card Making drought periods, so at a $1.99 I purchased a few templates and do some sample cards that I post on the QK Digital Gallery.

Click on image for larger view......

One of those times.......

2009-10-24T07:16:00.000+01:00

Have you ever had 1 of those times when you have a drought period in your Card making, and then you get request left right and centre????

Click on image for larger view........

40 Years of Marriage.......

2009-09-27T03:58:00.001+01:00

Was asked to make a 40th Anniversary quick card for a Pastor and his wife, put all the components for this card together with the help of 1 of the My Craft Studio CD range.

Click on image for larger view.......

To Leave or not To leave???

2009-09-27T03:16:00.001+01:00

Young lady at the Skils centre that I'm obliged to attend 2 days a week to surf the net for jobs, when I can find a free computer to use and I also trawl through the daily newspapers for job adverts as well. The less said about these so called Skils centres the better!!! A new firm has taken over the contract and Ms Kellie is not sure whether she is leaving or staying, when I spoke to her on Thursday 24th Sept she was leaving hence the making of the card; when I saw her on Friday 25th Sept she was unsure whether she would be in her post or not with the new employer........The butterfly part of the Template was designed by a UKS forum member named 2magpies.

Click on image for larger view..........

A little behind with postings.....

2009-09-27T02:49:00.006+01:00

I have to admit to a little slowness in updating these entries lately, have been busy designing some templates that are only half done; also learning how to use the fantastic free Inkscape programme to make SVG files that are easier to cut on my Silhouette Digital craft cutter. QK have finally launched a forum for all their products that they sell, and needless to say the Silhouette forum has the most postings so far. Here are a few cards I have made recently.

Click on images for larger view........

Another Paulo template.....

2009-09-03T00:49:00.002+01:00

I have to admit that I'm loving these designs that this young man Paulo is sharing so freely, and he had only recently posted the design on his blog; so once again here is my example..............

What a difference the right backing sheet can make to show off the wonderful template design. Thank You Paulo for sharing so freely.

Click on the image for a larger view.........

Heart of the Tree....

2009-09-02T00:29:00.002+01:00

Found this wonderful Blog offering SVG files for inspiration, and the Young man from Brazil has some wicked files on offer and this is my version of his design he calls Treetrunk......

And as usual my favorite paper media are Pearlescent paper and card, and the Heart shape is cut from Red Mirri card; scanner is not good at capturing Mirri paper or card......

Click on image for larger view.......

Silhouette Cutting....

2009-08-22T07:19:00.008+01:00

In between making cards, I have been putting my Silhouette baby through its paces with some newly purchased QK templates; you would have to own a digital cutter that uses the GSD file format to use these templates. There are definitely some talented designers on the QK Silhouette template design team, here is a small selection of those designs using my favourite media at the moment...Black Mirri paper, Bronze Pearlescent Paper and card with adhesive Glitter and Holographic sheets for added bling..

Click on image for larger view...

Happy Fiftieth Earthday......

2009-08-22T06:38:00.003+01:00

I love using the Arty Farty range of templates, so was glad to make a Champagne Bottle card, materials used was Foiled metallic paper and card for bottle top and bottle body, foam sheets for 3d effect on bottle labels, peeloffs for added embellishments and then all layered on a Gold Double sided Pearlescent card. Inside verse was printed on Ivory Pearlescent paper and adhered to silver mirri card. I also made a card bag from 1 sheet of 12 x 12 patterned paper with a silver mirri card border edging to the rim of the bag for added strength.

Click on image for larger view...

Sweet Sixteen...

2009-08-22T06:07:00.004+01:00

Was asked to make a Photo card for a Young Lady who was reaching the magic age of Sixteen, again was supplied with a multitude of photos to choose from and made a photo college using Googles free Picasa Photo software. As I had been given instructions about the wording for the front, I printed the wording on Ivory Pearlescent paper and made a frame from Patterned MIrri card. I then designed and cut three 3d frames to house the verse and 2 picture colleges....WOW..which in turn was connected together with a scored strip of card to give a ribbed effect. Good thing this wasn't to be posted!!!!

Click on image for larger view.....

60 Years Young...

2009-08-22T05:34:00.004+01:00

My Friend Bev asked me to make a 60th Birthday Card for 1 of her Church Sisters, she did supply a multitude of photos for me to make a selection to do a college using Googles free Picasa photo programme. I like to use Glossy Photographic paper for printing, which was attached to Gold Mirri card and layered onto Gold Pearlescent Card. Because a lot of the Church Sisters would be signing the card I had to make the card into a thin book, that was secured by strong adhesive and eyelets threaded with ribbon for simple decoration. The lettering was cut from White adhesive Pearlescent paper.

Click on image for larger view...

17 years of Marriage onwards......

2009-07-03T00:05:00.003+01:00

Bev A also asked me to make a card for her husband Kenny to celebrate their 17 years of marriage so far, she mentioned Marriage Vows so came up with a display card. I used Blue Foil card layered with Gold Mirri Card and Gold Hearts as a shelf for the other sentiment display cards.

Click on image for larger view......

A walk on the beach......

2009-07-02T23:47:00.004+01:00

Bev A asked me to make a birthday card for her Mum's birthday, using a photo from 1 of their holidays. Picture printed on 170gsm glossy photo paper then decoupaged using Inkjet transparency film on top of photo. Finished photo was layered on Gold Mirri card and attached to Lilac Gold Flaked card, image for Cala Lily supplied by Mary Powell I did a Print and Cut on my Silhouette and attached to Gold Mirri card. Also printed Cala Lily image onto envelope.

Click on image for larger view.....

Shoes, Shoes, Shoessssss.........

2009-07-02T23:36:00.005+01:00

I was asked to make a Birthday Card for a young lady who loves shoes, I ended up making a sort of display card made from 130gsm Red & Gold spotted foil card layered on top of 200gsm Gold Shimmer card, pictures printed on glossy 170gsm photo paper layered on Red Mirri card. Lettering and flip flops cut on Silhouette.

Click on image for larger view...........

Happy 9th Birthday Aaron....

2009-06-27T04:16:00.006+01:00

My Friend Muz asked me to make a card for her friends son Aaron, she E-Mailed me on Tuesday to say I have a picture on my mobile of Aaron that I want you to put on the card for Saturday; of course I said send the picture.............

Later on I E-mailed her and said 'Where's the picture?', 'I haven't got my mobile with me, I'll send it to you this evening'. Something prompted me to ask what his interest were, she said Racing Bikes & Racing Cars.

On Friday Muz got back in touch with me to say, can you just make the card please without the picture and I'll collect on Saturday...I must stop strangling my friends in my imagination..

So I chose a picture of Lewis Hamilton and a picture of Valentino Rossi, printed 2 glossy photos of each picture and 1 acetate print for decoupaging. I decided to make him a double card so that he can choose which side of the card he wants to display.

Click on image for larger view........

Ok now for the second card for Bev's Mum.....

2009-06-27T03:37:00.010+01:00

This is the Card I made for Lovely Lady Bev for her Mum as requested. This card was a NO NO we both agreed it looked a bit tacky. So a second card was made, No it looks like an Easter Egg said her friend. Sanity flown out the window, now had half a day to do new card and the brief was keep the Pink Roses; keep the style of lettering but in silver on a white Linen look card that I had used before.

So I Googled Pink Roses picture came up with Roses in glass vase, so printed 1 image on glossy photo paper, then printed same image on inkjet acetate sheet and decoupaged it to look 3D; did the same effect for inside card verse the same as Easter Egg card. On the back of the card another decoupaged vase of the Pink Roses only smaller.

She absolutely LOVED IT, and my sanity was restored.......

Click on image for larger view.....

I need 2 cards for my Mum said Bev.........

2009-06-27T03:18:00.008+01:00

Lovely lady Bev asked me to make 2 cards for her Mum's Birthday, 1 from Mum's Husband and the other from herself; instructions were not Brown,Black or Green card.......'Easy' I thought to myself.

WRONG......

I showed lovely lady Bev the first Fan card I had made for her Mum's Husband, she said 'No I don't like the colour' it was only half finished, so I made a second Fan card. YES!!! Bev said I Like it. So I removed my imaginary hands from round her neck....

Click on image for larger view....

R.I.P....

2009-06-26T00:35:00.004+01:00

Rest in Peace Michael Jackson 2:26pm Thursday 25th June 2009 USA 50 years old.

Playing with some Vector images....

2009-06-14T02:23:00.007+01:00

Downloaded some Royalty Free Vector Files called shopping Girls, when I find the link I will post; but for now I used my favorite mediums again. Black Mirri Paper, Cuttlebug Swiss Dots folder, Metallic Paper, Patterned Transparency film, my fast depleting chocolate shimmer paper and glitter paper.

Click on image for larger view........

Marbles...

2009-06-13T09:40:00.008+01:00

This birthday card was for a 9 year old Marble Enthusiast....so went Googling and found multiple marble picture here, and big marble picture at Madmanmarbles (click on link) and the card above is the result.

I used Tesco's Glossy Finish 170gsm Photo paper, decoupaged big marble picture using Transparency Film and also put another big marble picture on back of card(which I forgot to scan!!)

Click on image for larger view....

Hope......

2009-06-13T09:19:00.014+01:00

This Birthday card was to inspire a young man on the new direction that he had decided to take and to say 'Anything is possible, follow your Dreams'.......

Print was from Gvartwork (click on the link) and you can still order a FREE 5" x 6" print Shipping Fee $5.95 roughly £3.62. The card above is the result of using the print. The decoupage on the card inside speaks for itself.....

Click on image for larger view.....

My Own Advice...

2009-06-13T08:48:00.008+01:00

I've been told on many occasions that I'm good with the advice, shame that sometimes I don't listen to it myself....Was asked to make another couple of Women cards, my instructions were to make a 30th Birthday card similar to a previous silver and black version; and the second card was to be exactly the same as the silver version just a different name. Did I do what I was asked.....1 card was accepted the other rejected because of my hard ears, so I had to do another silver version as instructed in the beginning.

As usual used The Cuttlebug Swiss dots folder, Blk Mirri paper, Gold Glittered adhesive vinyl. The Digital Cutting Template was a combination from Gentleflower, SJBayley,Crafty Pam and Hazel7797 UKScrappers membership is required for free site access (click on links.)

Click on image for larger view....

Happy 50th Sonia...

2009-06-05T21:36:00.007+01:00

I was asked to make a card for a young lady name Sonia who will be celebrating joining the Half Century Club, which I also celebrated in May 09. I soon realised that I would need to be very inventive with the available stock of card and paper that I have at the moment, when you find yourself recently unemployed you soon need too learn 'Craft Budgeting'.

It was decided after much consultation that I would make a Champagne Bottle Card, using the ever faithful Arty Farty Template. The main bottle base was made from my beloved 135gsm Black Mirri paper adhered to 100gsm black card and embossed using the Cuttlebug Swiss Dots folder. The bottle top was made from 100gsm Metallic Paper and embossed using Fiskars Grass Texture Plate, I also used this technique for the bottle neck label and main bottle label, my favorite Gold Glitter Paper and Peeloffs were used for the bottle embellishments.

The insert verse was printed on vellum and adhered to a Gold Mirri card and layered on the Black Mirri paper, I cut a Black Mirri Paper envelope on my digital cutter which was in turn embossed with the swiss dots folder for a personal hand written message. The back of the card was also embellished with an embossed black mirri swiss dots label, complete with a glitter cut number 50. The Card Bag was made using 1 A3 Gold Pearlescent card and finished with a Goldy/Bronze Organza Ribbon for the handles.

Click on the image for a larger view...

Just Playing..

2009-05-30T21:16:00.005+01:00

This template was designed using the Inkscape programme, 'no not by me' but by a lady name Mary Powell; who has a wonderful website filled with cutting files, scrap and stamp projects.

Click on link to explore.....

Digital cutting using my favorite paper medium of the moment Black Mirri Paper and printed pattern on 100gsm White paper.

Click on image for larger view...

Mad Woman..

2009-05-30T12:13:00.005+01:00

Sat 30th May 11:42am
Sent my 14yr old son to go to local Shopping centre to do some Iceland shopping, he was asked to hand over his mobile phone (he doesn't have 1) then because he was carrying empty shopping bags he was asked for money or he would get hurt.

Thankfully My Son gave him the Tenner that he had and the #$£* rode off on his bike, when my son returned home 5 mins later and told me I left my house in my crushed up skirt and greyish black t-shirt with NO BRA!! with a plan to beat the crap out of this person..........I did not find him. My Son is ok no injuries whatever and he does'nt want to take Karate or Judo lessons, but he will be taking the more crowed route to the shops in future..

Pardon...

2009-05-30T03:37:00.006+01:00

Received an E-Mail from a colleague at my old work place on Wednesday 27th May, asking me to make a card for her Goddaughter for next day delivery; because she was not at work on Friday. So I said of course and she requested the woman card design..

Design is a Template combination from Gentleflower and SJBayley(Thank You Ladies).

Base is a White Linen effect 120gsm card, dress was cut from Black Mirri paper which in turn was embossed using the Swiss Dots Cuttlebug folder. The body section is cut from 80gsm Chocolate/Gold shimmer paper. The Bag, heel of shoes and verical font cut from 80-90gsm Silver Glitter Paper. Hair and Filmstrip cut from Black Adhesive Velvet paper.

Then she changed her mind.

Click on image for larger view...

Oh Yes Success finally....

2009-05-30T02:09:00.017+01:00

She changed her mind about the front of the card, (see original above) she did'nt like the vertical positioning of the fonts, I explained that it was representing a filmstrip but she was having none of it and she asked if I could make another card. Of course I said OK and promised that she would receive it Friday via another work colleague. I was determined that the original card was going to be remodelled, so did a second revamp; but I did'nt like it because I kept on seeing Harry instead of Happy. Finally!!!

All my friends know I require feedback ASAP, well at about 4:30pm Friday 29th May my friend called and was extremely happy with the revamped card.

(Note to self do not send picture of card via E-Mail before delivery)Check.....

Click on image for larger view...

Something Different....

2009-05-24T15:49:00.007+01:00

I do have a small collection of stamps, punches etc.. that I need to experiment with; so here are 2 examples using My Silhouette baby to cut out the main design from Black Mirri Paper watch the finger prints....attached a thin gossamer fabric to vase base and used adhesive gems for petals of flowers.

This design was cut from white 100 gsm paper, and the vase was cut from black mirri paper and I stamped a design on vase base and embossed in gold then punched out flowers and attached to main flower section.

Click on image for larger view...

Happy 10th Birthday from me Chyna.

2009-05-20T19:31:00.010+01:00

Of course I had to make Chyna a card from me. The card is an iridescent mirri card which changes colour depending on the angle of the card. The card and ballerina template was created by Jenniebean. The ballerina was cut from adhesive velvet paper, the skirt was cut from fine glitter paper and decorated on both sides with bling bling. The ballet shoes were also cut from velvet adhesive paper.

Click on picture for larger view....

Happy 10th Birthday Chyna.

2009-05-20T19:02:00.011+01:00

Made a Birthday card for a lovely 10 year old girl named Chyna, whose birthday I never forget because it is always 1 week after my Birthday on the same day. I used Pearlised card with embossed mirri card for the edging and photo frame, her mum gave me some photographs that I turned into a collage using Google Picasa photo software which is free to download. Inside the card the inserts were 15 sheets of 100 gsm paper with a printed pattern on either side for the children in her class to sign.

Click on picture for larger view....

Oh My....What a mammoth task.....

2009-05-11T06:04:00.002+01:00

I can't believe that I have finally finished updating this New Blog, long may it reign in these unsettled times. Unfortunately I have now joined the ranks of the Unemployed due to Temporary contract not being renewed, even if its 4 years and 11 months later....(Don't ask)

Will be posting some more pictures soon...Stay positive everyone.

May-9 Elaine (Magic Boxes) is this OK!!

2009-05-11T06:01:00.002+01:00

I'm a member of a Digital Cutting Forum, and they hold monthly template design challenges and April was a Font Challenge; and this Peacock Font was my contribution. The design was cut from Black Mirri paper and adhered too a Rainbow holographic card for the head feathers and tail, and gold pearlised card for the body. The whole design was then adhered to a silver-grey lightly embossed pearlised card.
Click on picture for larger view....

May-9/2009 Taking Advice........

2009-05-11T05:57:00.001+01:00

50 Years on Earth....
Ooooo I'll be celebrating this age this month, and I will be following the advice of a good friend; who always maintained that you had a whole year to celebrate reaching a special milestone in life.

Now back to the card. Fan shape is from the Glitter Girls Fan and Butterfly Embossing Board on Ice white pearlised card, the segments were cut on My Silhouette digital cutter and embossed using the Swiss Dots Cuttlebug folder on Gold Mirri card. Yes there are 50 small pinkish Roses and to complete the outside of this card you can't go wrong with Peeloffs. I haven't yet learnt how to print a design on the inside of the card with my new Printer, but I am still pleased with the design. Will need to update the Website soon.
Click on picture for larger view....

Apr-27/09 Great Templates...

2009-05-11T05:52:00.001+01:00

A few of GentleflowersTemplates..

Here and there in some of my card designs I have had the great pleasure of using some of Gentleflowers lovely templates, so this photo collage includes some templates that are available on the New Crystal Dreams CD. (I have included a Link for you to see other great examples of the CD)
Click on image for closer look….Thanks

Ho Hum March........

2009-05-11T05:48:00.001+01:00

A few sad occasions, Mothers Day, a Birthday in Ghana and I'm still awaiting my feedback. And a Granny who still loves Fairies.
Click on image for closer look….Thanks

Apr-5/2009 Oh February..........

2009-05-11T05:44:00.001+01:00

People leaving and going to pastures new. Wedding Card re-make, first card was sent abroad but didn’t get to the couple concerned; hence a second one. Big and Small Birthday's to celebrate. And once again a chance to use the templates of Gentleflower (Wedding) and SJB's Swirly dresses, Thanks ladies.
Click on image for closer look….Thanks

Jan-10/2009 Oh the New Year!!!

2009-05-11T05:42:00.001+01:00

I did manage a few Christmas cards and there are also some 3d Christmas trees, that unfortunately are struck on my camera's memory card; I will need to get in touch with the manufacturer's to hopefully fix the problem. I wish everyone a late Happy New Year and hope the credit crunch doesn’t bite to hard.
Click on image for closer look….Thanks

Dec-19/08 Xmas washout...

2009-05-11T05:38:00.001+01:00

Sorry for the long delays between postings, but hey!! Managed to find some time before the Christmas rush. I did so many Christmas samples I didn’t actually show anyone any actual completed cards cos I couldn’t make up my mind about a collection, so this Christmas is a washout where the cards are concerned roll on Valentines Day will be working on some great ideas. In the meantime here are a few more cards. If you visit my website you may find it under construction again!
Merry Christmas Everyone and a Happy New Year.
Click on image for closer look….Thanks

Nov-12/08 A few different varieties.

2009-05-11T05:34:00.001+01:00

Ooo love the lion cub...

I did promise that the next set of pictures would be my Xmas selection.......Hmmmmm I have the ideas and a few samples but when it comes to producing bulk cards I get stuck because I prefer to make individual cards; even if its for people who are not likely to meet each other. I do realise time is fast approaching for me to get a collection together. Oh well better crack on. Xmas collection next...........
Click on image for closer look….Thanks

More Inspiration...

2009-05-11T05:29:00.001+01:00

Gentleflower again, and ErikaP.

Made a beautiful 60th Birthday Card that was sent to Ghana and I received congratulations on the design, and guess what I haven’t got? A 'B#$**#' picture! Oh well maybe I will ask for a picture to be sent to me instead. Here are some more cards for you to peruse and leave a comment, the next posting will be of my Xmas collection and trust me this will not be the last time you see the Angel design from ErikaP.
Click on image for closer look….Thanks

Oh another week over!!

2009-05-11T05:26:00.001+01:00

Sometimes I do put myself through the mill where card making is concerned, like knowing I've got a week-end to make cards for people on Monday; and I will make the cards Sunday night up to the time that I needed to start getting ready for work. I find that sometimes it’s the design that eats the precious card making hours, but I usually get there in the end. This week-end I'm being let loose on another wedding card, so Gentleflower your template is going to be put into service again. I also need to carry on doing the Christmas selection because the days are just speeding by; I have a few templates to try out...Oh....and please do not comment about the spelling mistake on the card!!! I can't believe I missed the 'H' oh well its 2:54am I think I'll start the week-end laundry. Bye for now.......
Click on image for closer look….Thanks

Latest Cards...

2009-05-11T05:22:00.001+01:00

Oh I do love the Mirri Card...
Gentleflower,SJB and others, thanks for the use of your gorgeous templates; I have converted a few clipart pictures into files but I realise I need to step up the designing of my own Templates. Will be posting the Christmas collection soon...
Click on image for closer look….Thanks

Another Corset...What a good proposal Idea????

2009-05-11T05:16:00.001+01:00

I can see that this template is going to be a favourite for a while, need to keep experimenting with different card and paper stock; to see what will stick to what!!! I think I'll try a Christmas version...Hmmm....
Forgot to mention I went to Ally Pally on the Sunday after Fun Day with Rene (a Virgin Card Maker), the exhibitors were a bit thin on the ground, credit crunch seems to be having an effect. Why do people lose the ability to say 'Excuse me please' before they run over your foot with either the oversized shopping trolley or their size 20 FOOT!! Please folks get your Flu jabs there is a nasty cough going round....cough! Cough!
Click on image for closer look….Thanks

October 2008

2009-05-11T05:09:00.001+01:00

The Fun Day 2008!!!

Went to my Local Authorities Fun Day, I turned up with my few wares; found a table did a rough display and sat down in the HOT sun. A few locals passed and asked what was the purpose of the display, I explained that I made personalised cards for special occasions and then duly handed out a card advertising my website that needs to be downsized.(Will get to that soon) The Local Mayoress made an appearance and had a picture taken with a card called Glamour Queen (template designed by Gentleflower), also a Local Liberal MP made an appearance and took a card. All in all it wasn’t too bad a day...
Click on image for closer look….Thanks

Colin the ‘Arty Farty’ Car.....

2009-05-11T05:05:00.001+01:00

This template is not to be attempted lightly, have your bottle of wine some snacks and plenty of double sided tape, silicone glue, cereal boxes for the wheels and 180+gsm card.. ‘Ho’ don't forget the cotton cloth to wipe away the smears of glue and fingerprints from the mirri card. I have to admit I did do a paper version first which was helpful to discover which parts would be difficult. Purchasing this template was worth every penny.

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3D Models......

2009-05-11T04:50:00.001+01:00

Using Digital and Others......
Had a go at constructing a 3D model using a purchased template, why do you crafters write such long instructions; pictures work. Got there in the end.... One more word of advice glitter card and peeloffs do not work together!!! Looks good but thank heavens for crafters silicone glue..just...
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Monster nearly there......

2009-05-11T04:47:00.001+01:00

Making the Cards..
I think I can now say that I know my machine inside out. Now to conquer the various software that can be used for, producing the digital templates. I've had a few successes with clip art and at least I know what is likely to work then not. Have also found that I'm not wasting as much paper as before. Going to Ally Pally soon for a Craft show, Lord stay my hand from spending too much money.... HAH.....

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Monster still going..

2009-05-11T04:45:00.001+01:00

Thank you Linda & SJ...

There are some wonderful Digital cutters, websites and forums out there; and I just wish to say THANK YOU.
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Digital Monster still on the loose....

2009-05-11T04:42:00.001+01:00

Still testing and making a few cards here and there.
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Digital Monster on the loose.....

2009-05-11T04:34:00.002+01:00

Cards and Template cut outs
Some files that I downloaded and purchased did actually end up as cards and others were just cut out to see the effects. Copier paper can't be beat for testing templates before applying to your few precious pieces of card and paper especially when you can't remember where you brought them from...............
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Digital Cutting Revolution starts.......

2009-05-11T04:27:00.002+01:00

The cutting monster was let loose......

I purchased my Silhouette machine in Mid July 2007 and never got round to using it properly until Oct 07, I did join a forum that was a blessing in helping me understand Digital cutting. But of course there has to be a catch I wanted to use the difficult cutting media, and I will not tell you how many mats and blades I went through before I started to read the instructions. Can read novels no problems but to read instructions for machinery 'hell no' show me the pictures!!! I will only read instructions and follow them if I get desperate.

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See D D I'm moving along....

2009-05-11T04:24:00.001+01:00

See D I'm speeding up the entries. Decoupage cards (love my Toreads)
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The Glitter Girls…

2009-05-11T04:21:00.002+01:00

‘Do you see it, do yer do yer.... a member of Boyzone’. Did I just name drop? No I must be thinking out loud, as my colleagues at work would tell you I'm very good at holding conversations with myself and answering them too, and then there are days when I have the supersonic hearing!! Spooky....
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The ‘Arty Farty’ Handbag..

2009-05-11T04:18:00.001+01:00

I have to admit some of the card and paper stock that I used was very challenging...AAhhhhhhh especially when they decided that they were not going to stick and stay downnnnnnnn.
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The ‘Arty Farty’ Range..

2009-05-11T04:15:00.001+01:00

And before you think I'm swearing, there is a craft company called 'Arty Farty' who produce templates like the bottle and bag that I did love using. The Bottle template is 1 of my most used template............Hmmmmmmmmmm
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Xmas examples..

2009-05-11T04:13:00.001+01:00

Some Different Christmas cards using Dufex, peeloffs, Sizzix Father Xmas template (OOooo loved this one) adhesive gems and pearlescent card....

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Sorry to see you Leave..

2009-05-11T04:09:00.001+01:00

Have you ever experienced that moment when the old brown envelope came round at work and you were asked to contribute to another person leaving, there are some people where you think 'are you going or were you pushed?'.
Then there are others where you think 'but I didn’t know her/him?' and feel obliged to contribute??? ‘Oh’ peer pressure still survives!!! Even in Adulthood.. And then there are the contributions where you stand steadfast and say No and hope that the envelope person moves to the next person without asking any questions.......

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and the rest.........

2009-05-11T04:07:00.001+01:00

I kept saying to myself use the stock you have hoarded, and then I see another craft product that becomes a case of 'can't do without it'?????
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Get on with it!!...

2009-05-11T04:05:00.001+01:00

Did some more E-mails showing the way to my blog, and a good friend at work said to me 'wot about the car you did the other day?' and I said that I would be putting it on and she gave me her 'well get on with it look' so D here we go................
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And then some......

2009-05-11T04:00:00.001+01:00

I went a little crazy and was E-Mailing my previous blog to quite a few people, apologies to those I missed but I will get round to you soon. I'm not an agent of Google but credit where credit is due, their Picasa program is easy to use and helped me produce another card collage; so enjoy.

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Early Card Designs

2009-05-11T03:55:00.001+01:00

Oh I'm so excited, after downloading the Google Picasa, I am now able to produce the picture collage displayed; I have so many examples of cards that I have made for people that I will now be able to display in an easier format.(OMG computer jargon!!!) Hope you enjoy and leave plenty of comments.

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Sept 2008

2009-05-10T11:15:00.001+01:00

A Sad Occasion.

Good Bye Councillor Yates.

I was asked to make a card for a Local Councillor who lost her battle with Cancer, I actually met her on 3 seperate occasions and she was one of life's nice people and I believe she will be truly missed.

Cross was made on my Silhouette Digital cutter in 3 different sizes and attached to each other with large foam pads, I then draped a piece of white Organza Ribbon around the cross and then attached some punched out flowers to ribbon. The writing was done on my digital cutter with a gold gel pen.

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In the beginning there was Sizzix...

2009-05-10T11:07:00.001+01:00

I remembered being asked to do Birthday Cards for a set of Twin Boys, this is just 1 of them; and it was not that simple to try and line up the different sections of this design. I persevered and it did'nt look too bad in the end, good thing I had that tub of foam letters and numbers. Of course this opened the floodgates at work and I was soon putting that Sizzix machine through its paces.

Click on picture for larger view....

First day of many copied from other blog in Aug 2008

2009-05-10T11:01:00.000+01:00

Ok Where do I begin?...............

Its 10:30pm 16th Aug 2008 and typing this blog is definitely different. I started making cards November 2004 after watching one of those craft shows on TV; I have always been into some kind of crafting whether it was making my own clothes being a plus size person (ooh how politically correct) or machine knitting which is now stored in the corner of the bedroom, to making Cloth Hats and Ribbon cushions (what was I thinking!!!) to now developing a passion for cutting machines.
Thank you Alan and Barry for introducing me to the delights of the Sizzix machine first seen on C&C show all those years ago, then came the Xyron personal cutting machine followed closely by the Wizard cutting and Embossing machine brought on impulse at a craft fair in the Business Design Centre in North London.
Then came the Big Shot, followed by the Quickutz Squeeze and the Quickutz Revolution; which in turn led me to the Quickutz Silhouette Digital Craft Cutter!! Phew!! and all these bits of machinery makes you believe that I must have an unlimited Bank account...........No.........I work hard for a living and have a 14yr old son to support and the only way for me to stay sane is too craft.
I will be posting some of my early card making efforts, comments would be appreciated.