Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Love Is The Message

Card Recipe
Card Blank - 10.5cm x15cm.
Penny Black Stamp - Love Is The Message.
Embellishments from own stash.
Hints and Tips
This card is ideal for a man's Valentine's card but you could also use it for an wedding anniversary card or even a wedding invite.

This card was entered into the following challenge:
Sir Stampalot Challenge: January Challenge Monochromatic.
Lollipop Crafts: Challenge #65 Anything Goes.
Make It Monday: Challenge #74 Anything Goes.
Penny Black and More: January Challenge Love and Hearts.

Love Linda xxx

Tilda With Heart

Card Recipe
Card Blank - 10.5cm x 15cm.
Magnolia Stamp - Tilda With Heart.
Papermania Design Papers - Valentine's Collection.
Embellishments from own stash.
This image was coloured in using Copic markers.
Hints and Tips
You could attach a small gift of jewellery to the ribbon and turn it into a gift card.

This card was entered into the following challenges:
Die Cut Dreams Challenge: Pink, Red and Heart.
Paper Sundaes: Challenge #105 Valentine's.
The Crafty Pad: Challenge #155 Valentine's/Anniversary Love.
Lady Bug Crafts Ink: Loves Me Loves Me Not.

Love Linda xxx

Monday, January 30, 2012

Small and cozy

More often then not many of us live in smaller rooms then many magazines tend to show.
It is the reality for countless apartment dwellers and owners of small suburban or historic homes. 
And although the chances for clutter and the lack of storage can make life in smaller spaces more challenging and perhaps a little more complicated, there are many cozy solutions for comfortable rooms.

Natural tones keep it calm, perfect for the bookworm at home.
Image 
Light walls and a harmonious palette make this room perfect for reading, watching TV and relaxing. 
The L-shaped sofa offers ample seating and the chair creates an extra spot for reading. Notice the small writing table under the window. 



Small does not mean departure from eclectic style. This small living /dining room offers light and comfortable seating. The graphic rug and transparent side chair distract from the fact that there is not much room to play with.
I would perhaps remove the prints above the windows. They compete a little too much with the focal point: The sofa!



The above pictured room is an excellent example for  dramatic effects in a less then spacious environment. The burnt orange wall sets the tone for high contrast and the light classic furniture make it elegant.
The basically two tone  color scheme creates calm. I love the choice of hot pink as an unusual visual kick! The black chair cushion ties in with the fire place.




I love the nature inspired country comfort. A big deep sofa and leather chair make up for the small space. An ottoman is the perfect choice for flexible seating and feet up for long hours by the fire. 
The wallpapered niches create depth and I love the reclaimed fat beam for the mantle. Check out the wonderful cuckoo clock!
Again, for the color scheme: Less is more.




This kitchen shows all signs of hip style, yet it's practical and cozy. Light walls and floor keep it seamless and offer the optical illusion of space. The height helps...The bar table and tall stools do double duty as eating area and prep space. The chaise in the foreground transitions the kitchen into the living space. 



This small corner proofs that there is room under the eaves for a retreat to cozy up or to do some quiet work on the computer. Many Victorian homes have more then their fair share of odd shaped nooks and crannies.

Small rooms need to multitask and there are  many solutions to do it in style. Ottomans with storage, build -ins, open shelving and stylish containers, under bed storage and well laid out closets help to keep things organized. 
There are sofas, doubling as guest beds and dining tables can be used as desks...
And as with all smaller spaces, it is always good to edit your household. The simple rule mainly to buy things to replace others is helpful, as is the idea of less is more.






Images as indicated.


Valentine Decorations


Decorated window in my Blue Summer House.



Garland Recipe
Red Card.
Sizzix Original Die - Frame, Lace Heart.
This garland was inspired by the Cricut Blog Valentine's Day Garland post.  I used a Sizzix die instead of a Cricut cartridge.  The hearts where die cut then stapled together in a row.

Table Decoration Recipe
White, red and black card.
Sizzix Original Die - Locket, Heart.
Clear acetate.
I die cut 2 sets of the heart locket and glued them together at the top of the heart I then added a stand which I made made from clear acetate.


Table Decoration Recipe
Red card.
Sizzix Original Die - Cupid.
These cupids can be made two ways.  You can cut the red card into a long strip and fold it up then die cut it making sure the card is just short of the edge of die so the cupids are joined.  Or you can cut two individual cupids and glue them together but don't glue the legs this will act as a stand.


These projects where entered into the following challenges:
Decorate To Celebrate! Challenge: Challenge #17 Valentine's Day.
Crafty Creations Challenge: Challenge #154 Anything But A Card Valentine's For Kids.
Simon Says Stamp: Anything Goes.
Come and Get It Challenge: Anything But A Card.

Love Linda xxx

Friday, January 27, 2012

Winter white & gray

The sky is grayish white, I do not mind the overcast. Such days inspire me. The hibernating world gives me moments to dream and fill my head with images. Colorful or gray...



Images

I love the light and quiet, solitary feeling.

Image           

This bedroom calms me.


There is a comfort in that gray feeling sky, which lets me dream.

Landscape near Hudson on Hudson, NY


Happy weekend, everyone!





Images as indicated and my own.

Tilda In Spring Rain Winter Wonderland DT Card

The challenge for this week at Winter Wonderland was set by Miria. This week's challenge is a Non Christmas theme. Our Christmas themes will be back in February. The theme for this week is Swirls and Pearls.


We are sponsored by Simon Says Stamp.
The prize if a $15 voucher to spend at their store.


Here is my card.
Card Recipe
Card Blank - 10.5cm x 15cm.
Magonolia Stamps - Tilda In The Rain, Swirl.
Doodlebug Designs Inc Papers - Easter Assortment.
EK Success Punch - Retro Flower.
L-Em.Com Punch - Stamen.
Cuttlebug Embossing Folder - Divine Swirls.
Embellishments from own stash.
This image was coloured in using Copic markers.
Hints and Tips
The punched flowers where embossed to give them more dimension.

This card was entered into the following challenges:
Papertake Weekly: Happy Highlights (highlighted the pink wellingtons with glitter).
One Stop Craft Challenge: Challenge 166 Under The Weather.

Love Linda xxx

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Then and now

I saw a photography by Helen Lukens Gaut at this site, and of course it provoked an immediate comparison to our own recently taken road trip, about 100 years later.

Helen Lukens Gaut, California coast ca. 1911

The road seemed a little narrower then, but the immense nature and  beauty of the Central California coastline have stayed the same.
  
 Not the exact spot, but...  the California coast 2011

It is wonderful to know, that there is such steadiness in nature and that there were people before me fascinated with this beautiful part of the land. Such loveliness. 


Helen Lukens Gaut (1872-1955) was born in Illinois, she moved with her parents to Pasadena when she was eight years old. Her father, Theodore Parker Lukens, a friend of John Muir, became known as the "Father of Forestry". He served twice as mayor of Pasadena in 1890  and 1894.


Helen Lukens Gaut ca. 1900


She married, had two children and later divorced. She remarried in 1905 and with her second husband James H. Gaut discovered California per automobile and taught herself photography. Her talent eventually led her to becoming a rather well-known  photojournalist. She rarely published after 1922 and turned her interests towards her love of music and song writing, in which she as well excelled.


It fascinates me, to discover a woman from so long ago I had not known at all. To find her not so far removed in interests and lifestyle and now to re-tell a sliver of her life...
These are magical moments of connection.











Image via site and my own.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

We have a winner

Usually I delete promotional e-mails rather indiscriminately, but this one caught my eye and I thought it's worthwhile sharing it with you: 



At the opening of the Digital Book World Conference in New York City two days ago, the British Library, together with technology partner BiblioLabs,LLC, was awarded the prestigious Innovation Award (PIA) for their British Library 19th Century Historical Collection ipad app.




The collection offers seamless, cloud-based access to more then 45,000 of historical works from the British Library, spanning 21 thematic collections.
The app, launched in August 2010, has already more then 350,000 users in 150 countries worldwide.
Available on iTunes now for the American market:


http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/british-­‐library-­‐19th-­‐century/id438196905?mt=8


British readers go here:


This is great news for curious readers and researchers everywhere!

British Library reading room







Picture via google image

  

Georgie Porgie Nutcrafters DT Scrapling Baggy

Midway challenge reminder for the Nutcrafters Challenge Blog.  The theme for this week is Anything Goes. Remember your card or project must have a Nutcrafters image on it to qualify for the prize.



Here is my Scrapling Baggy.  This is a perfect size for a small gift or a few chocolates.
Front View
Side View
 Scrapling Recipe
Click here for a tutorial on how to make a scrapling baggy.  
Nutcrafters Stamps - Georgie Porgie.
Design papers purchased from Baker Ross.
Spellbinders Nestabilities Dies - Classic Hearts, Petite Scalloped Circles Large, Standard Circles Large.
This image was coloured in using Copic markers.
Hints and Tips
If a stamp is too large for your project don't forget you can always just use part of it like I have in this project.


This card was entered into the following challenges:
Cupcake Craft Challenges: All You Need Is Love.
Anything Goes Challenge: Challenge 59 To The One I Love.


Love Linda xxx

Monday, January 23, 2012

Art on Tuesday

I came  across this amazing work and wanted to share it with you!





It is the incredibly creative work of  Carnovsky, the dynamic design duo of Francesco Rugi and Silvia Quintanilla. 
The design team is Based in Milan, Italy.


Congratulations on winning the 2012 Best Wallpaper * Award!




Kaleidoscopic, dreamlike and so playful. I can see endless possibilities.








Image via website and stumbleupon.com

Asian Dolls

Origami Gift Card Holder Recipe
8" x 8" Square of Red Mulberry Paper.
Hero Arts Stamps - Asian Dolls.
Embellishments from own stash.
This image was coloured in using Copic markers.
Hints and Tips
You can find a tutorial for this at Whiff Of Joy Tutorials and Inspiration just click here.

This origami card holder was entered into the following challenges:
Pattie's Creations Design Challenge: Challenge #35 Fancy Folds.
Stampin With The Dragon: Challenge 2 Anything Goes.

Love Linda xxx


Saturday, January 21, 2012

Bedroom harmony

Of course I am talking color...




These faded Tiffany blues get me in the mood!


Happy weekend!








Image from here.

Friday, January 20, 2012

Millie Just For You Winter Wonderland DT Card

The challenge for this week at Winter Wonderland was set by Lynsey. This week's challenge is a Non Christmas theme. Our Christmas themes will be back in February. The theme for this week is An Easel Card.


We are sponsored by Lili Of The Valley.
The prize if a £10 voucher to spend at their store.


Here is my card.  I have made a twisted easel card.
Card Recipe
Card Blank - 14.5cm x 14.5cm.
Lili Of The Valley Stamp - Millie Just For You.
Doodlebug Designs Inc Papers - Spring Assortment.
Spellbinders Nestabilities Dies - Standard Circles Large, Petite Scalloped Circles Large.
Tonic Studios Punch - Butterfly.
Woodware Embossing Punch - Pansy.
X-Cuts Embossing Punch - Leaf.
L-Em.Com Punch - Stamen.
Sizzix Embossing Folder - Leaves.
Embellishments from own stash.
This image was coloured in using Copic markers.

Hints and Tips
You will find and excellent tutorial for a twisted easel card on Bev Rochester's blog All The Things I Love.

This card was entered into the following challenges:
Celebrate The Occasion: Challenge #46 Any Occasion must use polka dots.
Totally Papercrafts: Make Your Own Flowers.

Love Linda xxx

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Any Human Heart



Over the span of a few evenings I watched a beautiful movie - a PBS Masterpiece Classic miniseries actually -
as satisfying and moving as you only could hope for. 
It follows the life of Logan Mountstuart, a man, born at the beginning of the 20th century and we follow him along through his life and career, filled with all the ups and downs of the human condition. The story mirrors the life changing historical events, the happy and tragic turns of his life, his gentle wisdom and his unerring talent to look forward.
Originally written by William Boyd, Any Human Heart it was conceived as a series of personal journals. It is an intimate and equally brilliant story, one which will stay with you for a long time. Now, that I found his books, I am already looking for the next one. 
I watched the movie as an installment on Netflix, but it is also available online.
The movie is wonderful,  find below the editorial review from Amazon:

Every life is ordinary and extraordinary. Logan Mountstuart s lived in every decade of the twentieth century is a rich tapestry of both. Matthew Macfadyen (Pride and Prejudice), Jim Broadbent (Harry Potter), and newcomer Sam Claflin all take a turn as Logan at different points in his life in this provocative glimpse at one man s quest for glory and bliss. An aspiring young writer in London and Paris, a spy during WWII, Logan s was a life touched by everything and everyone from the Spanish Civil War, Joan Miró, and Ian Fleming to Earnest Hemingway, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, and the Baader-Meinhof Gang. But despite his many brushes with history, it is the women of his life who ultimately define Logan his ill-matched first wife, Lottie; the wives of his best friend, Peter; Freya, the love of his life; or anyone else on the long list of women who ve shared his days and nights. Featuring Hayley Attwell, Kim Catrall, Gillian Anderson, Tom Hollander, Natasha Little, Julian Rhind-Tutt, and Richard Schiff, Any Human Heart is the story of a full life, lived with passion expansive, rich, unsentimental, comic, and profoundly moving.





Wednesday, January 18, 2012

I'm A Little Tea Pot Nutcrafters DT Card

This week's challenge over at Nutcrafters is Anything Goes, so you can create a card or a project using any Nutcrafters image. Remember your card or project must have a Nutcrafters image on it to qualify for the prize.


This weeks fabulous prize for the lucky winner of Challenge 8 is a £10 gift voucher to spend in the Nutcrafters shop.




Here is my card for this weeks challenge it was inspired by the up and coming Chinese New Year.
Card Recipe
Card Blank - 14.5cm x 14.5cm.
Nutcrafters Stamp - I'm A Little Tea Pot.
Inkinadinkado Stamp - Asian Lanterns.
Papermania Design Paper - Oriental Treasure.
L-Em.Com Punch - Stamen.
X-Cut Punch - Blossom.
Embellishments from own stash.
This image was coloured in using Copic markers.
Hints and Tips
The dress was paper pieced using off cuts of co ordinating paper out of the oriental treasures pad.

This card was entered into the following challenges:
Truly Scrumptious: Challenge 72 Something Forgotten.
Papertake Weekly: Buttons, Bow, Bling and Blooms.

Love Linda xxx

Monday, January 16, 2012

Style Is Eternal

Card Recipe
Card Blank - 15cm x10.5cm.
Sizzix Hero Arts Stamp and Die Cut - Style Is Eternal.
Doodlebug Design Inc Papers - Spring Assortment.
Embellishments from own stash.
Hints and Tips
Don't forget even your smallest scraps of design paper can be used on your cards.  I find the sweet stop sketches are very useful for using up scraps of paper.

This card was entered into the following challenges:
The Ribbon Girl Blog: Colour Challenge #15 Blue and Pink.
One Stop Craft Challenge: Challenge #165 On the Spot and Ribbon.

Love Linda xxx

Friday, January 13, 2012

Country Companions Winter Wonderland DT Card

The challenge for this week at Winter Wonderland was set by Kate. This week's challenge is a Non Christmas theme. Our Christmas themes will be back in February. The theme for this week is Birthday Wishes.  The design must have a Birthday theme.


We are sponsored by the second of our new sponsors this week  The Emerald Faerie Garden.


The prize will be 3 of their digis.

Here is my card.
Card Recipe
Card Blank - 14.5cm x 14.5cm.
Docrafts Stamp - Country Companions free with a magazine.
Lili Of The Valley Stamp - Grunge Tickets, Words For Tickets.
Dovecraft Design Paper - Winter Wonderland.
Woodware Punch - Snowflakes.
This image was coloured in using Copic markers.
Hints and Tips
This image is part of a Spring stamp set but by just colouring the wellington boots blue and adding a winter scene you can have more than one use of it.

This card was entered into the following challenges:
Birthday Sundaes Challenge: Challenge #38 Birthday Card.
Charisma Cardz Challenge: Happy Birthday.


Love Linda xxx