Hidden Gems In My Local Charity Shop!

I have recently become a regular visitor to my local British Heart Foundation charity shop in Gravesend, Kent.  Why, because they regularly have hidden gems of the crafty kind.  Apparently they are sent items from QVC weekly, either ex demo items or part kits.  They have lots of different bits and bobs, some things I would consider more of a bargain than others.  Over the last month I have bagged some great 12x12 papers, card candy, gem packs and stamps.  Today I got 2 great corner punches, as new, £1.50 each.  My greatest find today was test tubes of acylic drops, just like polka doodles dew drops, all colours at just £1 per pack.  I somehow managed to squirrel together £36 worth of craft goodies today and had to chuckle when the lady that worked there was very excited to be able to offer me a loyalty card!  I am now the proud owner of a British Heart Foundation loyalty card and am eligable to collect points which can be swapped for free goods, just don't think I would have the heart to redeem them in a charity shop, then again when its craft goodies involved, who knows!!

Return Of Mr Thomas

Obviously I always look forward to my husband's return from his business trips, but my excitement is enhanced when he has been to Chicago, mainly because there is a Michaels Arts & Crafts shop right next door to his office.  This week I tasked him with a list of Martha Stewart Punches, some 12x12 DCWV pads and a pair of fringing scissors, all of which he tells me he has purchased! How lucky am I, roll on tomorrow for Hubby and new goodies!!!

Black & White Anniversary Card

I made this card for my brother to give his wife on their Anniversary today, 30th June! The date had momentarily slipped his mind and I offered to make him a card to save him a trip into town! I used my newest Martha Stewart heart punch across the bottom and a lovely piece of 12x12 that I had picked up at Ally Pally.  The Bride & Groom hearts is a real favourite of mine, but I have my friend Jess to thank for that as she first sent me the idea.  He was pleased with the end result, as was I! Even though I didn't finish until 11 o'clock, I hastily made another one to go in the Simply Handmade By ... box of goodies!!

Chair Card

Chair Card, originally uploaded by elthomas221.

Simply Handmade By Craft Day

The Simply Handmade By team had a lovely gathering yesterday, a whole day to get on and craft.  I asked my daughter in the evening to guess how many cards I got made in the day, she delightfully announced 100, then thought about it and reduced it to 50, in my dreams.  The sad reality was I only made 1, (photo to follow), but I was in charge or lunch and refreshments, thats my excuse and I am sticking to it.  Even though my productivity levels were poor, I had a lovely day and it reminded me why I loved card making so much.  We chatted about papers, stamps, colouring, nestie shapes and all the lovely things that a dedicated crafter finds thrilling, roll on our next get together. x

3d Vase of Flowers Card

3d Vase of Flowers Card, originally uploaded by elthomas221.

I love the my Polka Doodles CD, printed off this great A4 Vase of Flowers card. I decoupaged the main images, added gems, glitter, yummy card candy plus a few bits and bobs and it ended up quite snazzy. I gave it to my mum on her birthday last Wednesday, 9th Feb, and she loved it. Although very simple it was something a little different. At least now friends and families birthdays are out of the way for a bit I should have time to make some bits for Simply Handmade By ...., I'll be in trouble otherwise!

LadyBird Easel Card

LadyBird Easel Card, originally uploaded by elthomas221.

I love this bright and fun Easel card. I have made it for my daughter Ellie's 11th Birthday which is tomorrow, Valentines Day. Hopefully she will like it. I printed the papers and ladybirds from the Polka Doodles Paper Boutique CD 1. With a few flowers and bits and bobs I was quite pleased with the finished result.

Maiden Post!!!

Pheweee, with a little bit of inspiration from a friend, I have finally set up my very own blog.  Although it is very basic in comparison to others, it's a start and I am actually quite proud of myself.  I have had a lovely day, the girls of "Simply Handmade By ..." had a very productive brainstorming session.  Yet again I am buzzing with new ideas, just need to make the time to put some of them into practice, exciting!!