Traci at Particraft

Closing the blog

2008-09-30T21:34:00.003+01:00

Hey everyone, I know I have been slack but so many things have been going on here at Particraft and then I have been poorly too - I know ahhh! I will be closing this blog soon as all updates and PartiCraft goings on will be reported on our forum

New FREE project sheets

2008-09-14T17:10:00.006+01:00

So what is new here at PartiCraft? We have some FREE project sheets available for you on our forum, all of these projects have been made by a couple of our demonstrators, Michelle and Gladys so a huge thank you to them. Here is just one example:

The projects have been made using the FREE Host gifts that you can receive for hosting a PartiCraft Party

Hope you enjoy the FREE projects - there are more to be able so be sure to come back and check out the updates.

Scene-velopes

2008-09-08T15:14:00.009+01:00

WOW - I love the New Scene-velopes from Sue Wilson. They are so different and just fit my crusade for doing more than just a card!

Problem is I just cannot decide which is my favourite! I shall be introducing my Craft group to the Seasons Scene-velopes tomorrow so I am really looking forward to that.

If you click on the picture you will be taken directly to the product description on the PartiCraft Website. Ordering direct from PartiCraft is easy, just add all the items to your basket, chose a demonstrator and you will be contacted directly by them to sort out postage etc...

PartiCraft Magazine - Issue 3 Out Now!

2008-09-03T09:10:00.003+01:00

Issue 3 of our PartiCraft magazine is out now - it is filled with great projects and information. Lizze Tovey brings you a great Master Class on Brayering we have a wonderful article by Kristine Fowler from Craft Critque on Alcohol inks. There is a Bear-iations gallery and so much more Click here to get your subscription now

I'm Back!

2008-08-26T22:22:00.005+01:00

You thought I had deserted didn't you?! Well not exactly I just took a week off. I know, me time off? It was fab and I have come back after some much needed family time feeling refreshed and energized - admittedly today has been more about catching up with emails, orders, our new demonstrators and the like but it is good to get back into the swing of things and when I have caught up I shall be releasing the next batches of exciting and new things happening within PartiCraft. I tell you it is just like a great big bundle of celebrations here! There is one surprise after the other and then to top it off we have more exciting news to tempt you!

Hopefully many of you have had a browse through our new forum

We will be adding new sections and updating on a regular basis so do ensure you check in regularly. You also have the opportunity to ask questions direct to the demonstrators as well as finding out about Parties and Workshops but do not forget that we have an Activities area on our PartiCraft website which will enable you to book a place on our Demonstrator's Workshops, Craft Groups or Parties direct, click here for more info.

If you have not registered on our forum yet click here

Free Project on our PartiCraft Forum

2008-08-16T11:52:00.003+01:00

Well the forum is coming together and we have added a free project for you - this is a great simple card that will appeal to many age groups - you will find step-by-step instructions on the forum along with a linked list of products used

Hope you enjoy all we have to offer on the forum amd we look forward to welcoming you

New Forum

2008-08-11T20:07:00.004+01:00

Move over there is a New Forum in town! OOOOOh yeahhhh the PartiCraft Forum is up and running click here to find out more.

The forum will not only cover items such as Cardmaking, Rubber stamping and Scrapbooking but you will also have the opportunity to find out more about PartiCraft and our Demonstrators.

We are really looking forward to welcoming you

New Hostess Rewards

2008-08-07T19:45:00.002+01:00

Welcome to our new Hostess Rewards we have five for you to choose from - contact your local PartiCraft Demonstrator to find out more information or check out our website

Bear-iations now available at PartiCraft

2008-08-06T01:13:00.007+01:00

That is right Sheena's fab Bear-iations are now available at PartiCraft including the fab Santa setHow cool will these be with your Standing bear set

Click the pictures to take you to those particular sets and click here to see more of our range of stamps including the remaining Bear-iations - all Internet orders will also receive a complimentary catalogue.

Junkitz Workshop

2008-08-02T19:20:00.005+01:00

We measured, we cut, we stuck, we inked, we stamped and besides all of that we also had loads of fun! And yes we did have a few biccies, except I obviously kept all busy as not many of the biscuits were eaten! Well we had so many pages to do for the album after all (36 to be precise!) and of course there were a few techniques to be taught too so after all of that they all went home with a fabulous Junkitz album ready to add all their precious memories and moments.

So what else is happening at PartiCraft? Well we have Issue 2 of our magazine out now and available on subscription click here for more details

The magazine not only has the Card Making, Rubber Stamping and Scrapbooking Master Class but you will find some fab projects including a FREE handbag album template - we would love to hear your comments so do write into us all the details are in the magazine - we look forward to hearing from you

Photography

2008-07-29T16:14:00.004+01:00

My passions include many crafting subjects but as my passion for Scrapbooking grew so did my passion for great photo's, which then led onto wanting to know more about the Why's and How's of photography; well it would be fair to say I am still trying to work all of those out but I wanted to share a picture with you that I took on the train on the way home on Friday - I was playing around with the shutter speed and the aperture on my camera and managed to get this shot
I loved it - it was just what I was aiming for; Kiesha's reflection but I still wanted the blur of the trees so you could tell the train was moving, it was quite tricky as it was dependant on getting it in between the sun being behind the trees and actually waiting for there to be trees there!

I know, I know

2008-07-28T23:07:00.002+01:00

I know, I know, lack of updates! But that really is because as much as I would love to think that everyday of my life makes exciting reading, the reality is that some days are just the mundane day-to-day running of the business. Lois is on Holiday so I have had the great fortune of already speaking to some of you while I have been at HQ and then the rest of my time has been spent preparing for this weekends workshop which is fasting approaching, I cannot wait to see you all!

Well back to the grindstone there are still a few workable hours before my eyes become a blur and bed time becomes a must!

Project Kits

2008-07-21T23:04:00.003+01:00

One of the great things about PartiCraft is how much it is evolving, I mean of course that was the plan all along but it is wonderful to see it come to fruition, so we have another "first" coming up - so far we have released our first issue of the PartiCraft magazine, we have released info on our first workshop and not forgetting we released the first online video tutorial which paved the way for the other releases and now I am giving you a look at one; yes just one of the many, first project kits we are putting together, all of them are exclusive to PartiCraft and all of them are on a while stocks last basis, you will see project kits being released for all budgets, tastes, occasions and crafting styles so make sure you keep checking the website for more information.

Online Craft Video - Post it Note holder

2008-07-19T20:41:00.004+01:00

I have created another video tutorial and this is a perfect project for your children to make for their teacher or to do in the summer holidays and no it is not reserved just for children! It is a fab little Post it note holder project that is so quick and easy to make but a great gift to give to friends and family.

Hope you enjoy it

The Door

2008-07-19T00:49:00.004+01:00

I have been working hard today but mainly on the computer which does not make for very good reading I know, but it is such an integral part of the business. I have also created some more projects but ones that I cannot show you just yet.... Ooh I know so much secrecy but it is all for the greater good and I know that when the next issue of the Magazine comes out you will all be loving the projects so it is happy days! I wanted to share this picture with you that I took while at Ripley Castle when we went to Harrogate the weekend before last, I adore pictures like this and every time I look at it I have a curiosity to want to know what is behind that door! And with my imagination I could then create a whole world just from the picture of that door and that is how I would tell Kiesha stories when she was younger and occasionally still today, books are fab but your own made up stories can be just as good if not better! Better still is if you create your own story book with the characters of the story being your children with their pictures etc... It is something that is great fun to make, loads of fun to read and a keepsake that you will treasure forever.

Craft Workshop update

2008-07-18T00:08:00.002+01:00

Just wanted to let you know that the details of the workshop are now up on the homepage, we still have a few places left for anyone that would like to come and join us for a fun filled educationally packed crafting day, for those of you who are visiting my blog for the first time - welcome - and here is a pic of the Junkitz book we shall be making in the workshop

Click here to see the older post on this workshop.

Hope to see you there!

PartiCraft Magazine

2008-07-16T20:25:00.009+01:00

Today has been spent with my daughter at my side (as the school is on strike today and tomorrow), making projects for the PartiCraft magazine, typing up the articles and just generally doing what the editor does - why does that word sound so much better than the reality it brings? Ok I love it you know I do, it is challenging and it gives me the opportunity to bring you loads of amazing projects, share tips and hints as well as share the knowledge on crafting products, afterall that is what PartiCraft is all about sharing, educating and inspiring. Now it would not be me if I did not give you a few sneaky peaks at the project I created today which I cannot wait for you to see - it is great and will be something for many people to treasure so make sure you get your copy on August 1st.

Junkitz Book Workshop Details

2008-07-14T08:31:00.008+01:00

Junkitz Book Workshop details

Date: Saturday 2nd August 2008
Time: 10.00am - 3.00pm
Venue: Thrapston Baptist Church
33 Huntingdon Road
Thrapston
Northants
NN14 4NF
Price: £25.00

There are limited spaces so it will be on a first come, first served basis and payment will be at time of booking call Lois at head office now on 0800 195 1155 to secure your place

I cannot wait it will be fantastic! Not only are we going to be using some amazing scrapbooking papers but we will also be using Adirondack paint dabbers, some exclusive PartiCraft stamps that will be launched on the 1st August, meaning you will be the amongst the first people to use them! And of course I shall be showing you some nifty ways to create more from your pages. It really does not get much more exciting than this!!

Album Workshop

2008-07-09T18:41:00.008+01:00

OK It is official I am completely psyched about an up and coming workshop that will just be fab! Well of course it will be I'm taking it!!! LOL alright I am not really blowing my own trumpet but as many of you who have attended my workshops before will know you come, you have have fun, you learn loads of techniques, you get shown how to use products in different ways and yes we usually push a few boundaries style wise too. I also have so much fun while taking workshops, I love them and this one I am particularly excited about..... When? Where? I hear you ask...... watch this space! But I will give you a few sneak peaks!

Inspiration

2008-07-07T23:47:00.004+01:00

I get asked where I get my inspiration from a lot so I thought I would blog about it. This weekend was a perfect example, I went to Harrogate for my Brothers Wedding and managed to get to take a look around Harrogate and what a beautiful place it is. There are so many great buildings, signs, churches etc.... I find them all inspiring in many different ways and then you turn another corner and find a beautiful display of flowers, again I find these very inspiring. It got me thinking as to what I find most inspiring.

That is such a difficult question to answer but after careful pondering I would have to say time.... I know that is a strange thing to say but when I have time I walk and when I walk, I look around and notice so many things and yes I usually have my camera as I did this weekend, I have taken so many pictures but they are on another computer so you will have to be patient!

So my little piece of creative sharing is to take time out to look around you, you will be amazed at the things you had never noticed before that will inspire you for a particular Layout or card. I found many older items this weekend which has really got my creative mind working and I spotted some amazing jems that if I had not taken the time I would have missed.

I found this quote but I do not know who it is from sorry :(
Time is free, but it's priceless. You can't
own it, but you can use it. You can't keep
it, but you can spend it. Once you've lost it
you can never get it back.”

Grungeboard

2008-06-30T19:36:00.004+01:00

I am in my element I am working on a project using a few of the techiques I learnt at Ranger University and I knew just the product to help add the finishing touch - Grungeboard - I love it - I ordered some and it arrived this afternoon so quite timely, it works so well with a number of our products, I used the distress inks and Cosmic Shimmer powders to create an aged finish. Here are a few sneaky peaks at the project

bet you can't guess what it is about! LOL

Alcohol Ink

2008-06-27T19:02:00.003+01:00

I have just finished a quick card for a friend of ours using one of the techniques I learnt at Ranger U, I have to say it is one of my favs as it is yet another technique you can do using the Alcohol inks but instead of using them with your applicator you watercolour with them - I know how cool is that and yes we will be teaching these techniques in our up and coming workshops so make sure you keep checking the website as as all the info will be put on there soon!

New York

2008-06-24T05:52:00.002+01:00

Wow we did New York in a day and yep I am tired now it has to be said but I do have some amazing pictures and sooooo many ideas of what I will be doing with them but for now I just wanted to share this one with you and then I will give you more details later as Sheena and I have a very early flight home

Ranger - It's been emotional

2008-06-23T04:41:00.005+01:00

Wow what an amazing fun filled, educationally packed 3 days - it has been emotional! Today was a mix of whooooo off we go again and OMG this is the last day :(

I cannot even begin to explain how much fun we have had and how many tips, techniques and inspiration has flown around the room, oh yes you can expect some pretty spectacular workshops coming from PartiCraft soon! I cannot wait to pass on the knowledge and get you as fired up as we are!

and as promised some more pics - Bernie, Claudine, me and Dyan

and Mr Holtz and inspiration to say the least!

Ranger = Happy Days

2008-06-22T03:49:00.004+01:00

Ok so have I come back down from cloud 9? Ummmmm No...... infact just no way, we are having so much fun and playing with so many products it is just full on all the time that coming down is just not an option, today we were playing with my second favourite product in the entire world..... Distress inks, well not just the inks, the crackle paint, the distress embossing powders etc..... oh yes happy days.

I cannot wait for tomorrow but also will not want it to end as that will be the last of the training :(

I wanted to share a few pics of us hard at....... well I can hardly say work when it is this much fun so we will say hard at play!

New Jersey

2008-06-20T11:09:00.004+01:00

We are here and wow what a great impression already, everyone has been so helpful and friendly, we caught an air bus from the airport and then a train to Red Bank, then a taxi to Tinton Falls and during that time we spoke to quite a few people, it was great to see so many friendly welcome faces and have conversations instead of the deadly silence we Brits tend to have on Public Transport.

Here is a very Dodgy picture from the areoplane, we will have some much better ones to share throughout this trip.

Cannot wait for Ranger U today we have just under 3 hrs to go, not that I am counting or anything!

Will share all the details later!

PartiCraft Magazine

2008-06-14T11:15:00.004+01:00

Thank you to so many of you who have emailed in with your comments regarding the PartiCraft Magazine, it is wonderful to receive such a positive response. The next issue will be released on 1st August 2008 and will be available as a 3 month or 6 month subscription, we have even more projects from our Design Team to include projects from Amanda Bateman and Lizzie Tovey. If you have not downloaded your FREE copy click the picture

We would love to hear your comments and some of your emails will also appear in the next issue.

Enjoy!

Off to Ranger 1 week today

2008-06-12T08:30:00.010+01:00

OK, so I am trying, in fact really trying to curb my excitement as it is only 1 week today before Sheena and I adorn a plane to New Jersey to go to Ranger University! Yes my stomach is doing somersaults already!! Now, as many of you who know me already know, I am a huge fan of ranger products, especially the alcohol inks and there are not many crafting tools in my possession that do not get altered one way or the otherHere is a small picture of my heat tool just to prove a point!

So last night Kiehsa and I spent some quality crafting time together and made one of Ranger's Projects, a memory glass Tea light holder, I loved it the first time I saw it and really wanted to give it a go but as with everything it is always time permitting, so last night was that time and as always when I look at a project another variation pops into my head and so of course I had to make that too! (well it would be rude not to wouldn't it!?)

Also congratulations to Sally, our latest Demonstrator cannot wait to hear about your parties and see your projects etc.... and no doubt we will hear from Sheena all about your training.

PartiCraft Magazine

2008-06-10T00:57:00.003+01:00

Ok so I have been working really hard behind the scenes creating the first issue of our PartiCraft Magazine - yes it is all very exciting, you will find projects, interviews, hints, tips, Master classes and so much more jammed packed into one little magazine and what's more it is an ONLINE magazine - oh yes we are also doing our bit to reduce the Carbon footprint. The bonus to this is you can still read through the magazine as normal and just print off the pages you want! So what do you have to do to get your hands on the first issue which is FREE, yes I said FREE - well keep visiting us www.particraft.co.uk and very soon you will see our new edition. I would love to know your views and thoughts on the magazine, future articles you would like to see as well as seeing your projects in there too! We are also lloking for a few more Design Team members so if you fancy joining the team then download the magazine as soon as it is available and read how to apply on page two.

Stamping Storage Solution

2008-06-04T21:08:00.006+01:00

Ok so many of you want to find an easy to use, inexpensive storage system for your un-mounted rubber stamps - so here it is, this is my version on an idea that Becki had for storing her un-mounted particraft stamps so thank you for sharing Becki
I have to confess to having a few storage systems in the past - a binder is just one of them but I had not stamped the image onto copier paper and then laminated it - oh yes so much easier and great for being able to see the design properly particularly when it comes to wording stamps
Hope you find this helpful :)

We are on You Tube

2008-06-02T21:53:00.005+01:00

Yes we have entered into the 21st technology craze and joined You Tube, as mentioned before we have many more video tutorials coming soon on projects as well as techniques, we would love your feedback and suggestions so please email us

Over the weekend I have been working on my Rubber Stamp storage System so I shall share a few pics of that tomorrow, it was inspired from one of our demonstrators Becki so I have adapted it slightly to suit my purposes, that is one of the reasons I really enjoy the training we all share tips, hints and projects - so thank you Becki

Video Tutorials at PartiCraft

2008-05-29T16:04:00.003+01:00

Great news we now have a some online video tutorials available to you here at Particraft and not content with giving you just a project idea there are also a few Basic technique video tutorials for you too!

Click the picture to go to the PartiCraft Video Tutorials Page

Another training day

2008-05-28T17:06:00.002+01:00

I have completed another training day today and would like to thank the ladies for a great day. It was lots of fun as usual. I have another training day on Friday in Harnham which I am looking forward too, I have not had a lot of creative time of late but did take lots of Photos while in Devon over the Bank Holiday weekend, it was Nick's Dad's 80th so lots of scrapbooking opportunities to be had, we also popped over to see Dawn and her baby Donkey's so again more scrapbooking opportunties - so guess what tonight's job is? Yep sending off the photo's to be developed. I have some great ideas so watch out for the up and coming layouts!

Welcome

2008-05-21T18:45:00.003+01:00

Welcome to our latest Demonstrator Emma from Plymouth, I am looking forward to meeting you during our Training session. I have another days training on Friday and then another two next week and yes I know it is half term but that is the beauty of Particraft it works around your children, we wanted to make sure that we could offer an opportunity for you to be able to earn money doing what you love as well as it still working around your current commitments.

Kiesha will be coming along to the training with me on Friday and was hoping to meet some of the demonstrators children and run her own little class! Bless; yep like mother like daughter.

One of the problems I used to face before running our business was finding work to fit in and around Kiesha, as many of you know Nick works away so that made it difficult to try and get a job to fit in around Kiesha's school commitments, the numerous holidays etc.... and childcare can cost a fortune.

That is one of the reason you gave a such positive feedback while we were at Bolton it seems that many of you like the fact that we have had as many struggles as you as one person put it "so you are real people that had real problems and so you found a real solution" (I quite like that and I may be quoting you a lot!)

Projects at Make It

2008-05-19T18:39:00.008+01:00

Ohhhh it's good to be home! Although it has to be said Make It was full of lovely people. It was great to get the time to talk to so many of you and share tips, hints and particraft knowledge! Thank you to those of you who have emailed us, it was great to come back to such a positive warm response. I thought I would share a couple of projects with you, I made these during Make it and it would appear you just could not get enough of the Radiant Rain, but I have to say I also loved this combination
I also really enjoyed playing with alcohol inks (but then again when don't I!) The combination of Alcohol inks and Fancy pants stamps had many of you creating your very own wish lists during the show! Don't forget if you would like to place an order with us you can create your wish list by clicking here, your order will then be passed onto a PartiCraft Demonstrator

Not being content with just making cards with my Alcohol Inks I whipped up an A4 Scrapbook page using the left over pieces
One of things I really enjoyed doing this weekend was comparisons between Products, I made some quick teddy cards the following one is painted with distress inks, there is such a spectrum of colours with the distress inks that I love using them for Watercolouring techniques

This next one has been painted using the Cosmic Shimmer Pigments I love the Circus Brights Set as it has some great strong colours

Sheena and I will be busy again training our new demonstrators but in the mean time we will also be getting started on some new projects. We have some fab new ideas that I cannot wait to get started :)

Day Two

2008-05-17T19:53:00.004+01:00

Today was amazing! It was very busy and we had so many lovely people pop over and say hi. We are looking forward to seeing those of you who are coming back and many more of you that attending for the first time tomorrow! Hurrah I can upload pics tonight! So here are a few pics from today

I would like to say congratulations to our 3 new demonstrators today and to Lynsay who has now got her first demonstrator - that is great news.

Make It - Bolton

2008-05-16T19:12:00.003+01:00

What a day! It has been great talking to so many of you. Sheena and I have loved Demonstrating our PartiCraft products and running through the business opportunity, it is great to hear all your positive feedback and that many of you are considering becoming PartiCraft Demonstrators. I tried uploading the pictures but due to the connection it is just not playing ball! So you are going to have to wait in suspense just a little bit longer!

We are here!

2008-05-15T21:49:00.004+01:00

Ok so we have arrived, set up, eaten, laughed, laughed some more and I have to show you why, Sheena and I are sharing a room and while she is lapping up the luxury I feel as though I am camping! Though I have to say the irony of her - big bed little computer, me - small bed big computer!!

Such a shame you cannot quite see the bowing of this sofa bed, i really has had us in histerics but don't you worry I will get my own back when we go to Ranger University in June (I will have the big bed then!!!) Tomorrow I will upload some pics of the stand as well as the hussle and bussle, we will also be re-united with Lois tomorrow after her little hol so it will be great to catch up on all her holiday Gos, Sheena is going to be demonstrating some of the Cosmic Shimmer Spray techniques and I will be demonstrating some of the Fancy pants scrapbooking papers as well as Alcohol inks, I love alcohol inks and wow do I have a project that you will love to see...... oh yes that means you are now going to have to come by stand J40 just to know what I am talking about.... hee hee

New Demonstrator

2008-05-15T00:09:00.002+01:00

Congratulations to Samantha our latest Demonstrator, it will be great to meet you face to face during the training, so tonight's activities consisted of packing for Make it Bolton, we cannot wait to see so many of you and would like to thank all of you that have called to say you will be swinging by to see us during the show. I will hopefully be updating in the evening with pictures and news from Bolton!

Hurrah More PartiCraft projects!!

2008-05-13T23:03:00.006+01:00

Whooo hooo I have had the time to squeeze in another two PartiCraft projects - this time cards and they are very different styles!Products used:
12 x 12 Card stock - Aquamarine
Antique Tones Cosmic shimmer Spray Mica Pigments - Black Pearl
Fancy Pants From the Garden Acrylic Stamp Set
Fancy Pants 6 x 6 Acrylic Block
Love opens up Unmounted Rubber Stamp
This is such a summery card, the flowers have been adhered to the card blank and then the centre is matted ontop so when the card stands up you have the flower surround
Products used:
12 x 12 Card Stock - Baby Pink
Paper flowers
Spotted Butterfly unmounted stamp
Fancy Pants Key Lime rub-ons
Fancy Pants Dapper rub-ons
Circus Brights Cosmic Shimmer Spray Mica Pigments - Rose Hew and Purple Violet

Training and Projects

2008-05-12T21:11:00.007+01:00

Today I was in Norfolk training and wow how pretty is Norfolk? It is gorgeous!! The training went great and the sunny drive home through Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire was a delight. Just wish I had had enough time to pull the car over and take some snaps.... maybe next time!

I also wanted to share a couple of projects with you
I adore this fancy Pants paper, the pattern is just gorgeous, I also used the Wizard for the lettering and ribbon and brads.... well it would be rude not too wouldn't it!

Products used:
Fancy Pants Charming 12 x 12 paper
Wizard Die - Vintage Alphabet
Fancy Pants Sassy Buttons
Fancy Pants Key Lime Ribbon
Brads - Baby Pink Set

And here is a double page LO I did the other day - very pink and girly!Products used:
Fancy Pants Delicious 12 x 12 paper
Marine 12 x 12 Cardstock
Fancy Pants Bella Brush Acrylic Stamps Set
Fancy Pants 6 x 6 Acrylic Block
Adirondack White Paint Dabber
Worn Lipstick Distress Ink Pad
Fancy Pants Frou Frou Rub Ons
Fancy Pants Free Spirit Rub Ons
Fancy Pants Mulberry Road Die Cuts
Fancy Pants Sweet Pea Die Cuts
Fancy Pants Kewl Ribbons

It is not very often I do a double page layout but I also did not want to squash all this onto one 12 x 12 page, sometimes LO's just cry out for more room and this one did exactly that and let's face it who am I to argue?!

Make It update

2008-05-09T16:31:00.007+01:00

It is getting nearer.... so it is time for a Show offer exclusive! During Make it you will be able to join the wonderful PartiCraft opportunity and get your Demonstrator's kit for £145.00 that is an extra £30.00 Off the already worth over £300.00 Demonstrator's kit that will help you be well on your way with your new and exciting business! So come on over to stand J40 to make the most of this offer, have a chat and see why so many people are signing up to be PartiCraft Demonstrators. Watch the demonstrations from Sheena and myself and get all the business info from Lois

See you there!

All at HQ

2008-05-08T07:56:00.006+01:00

Sheena and I have been at HQ and will be again today - going through all the neccessities but also looking at new products etc.... I know how exciting is that! It has been great for us to get to speak to some of you on the phones and hearing your wonderful comments about PartiCraft, we are as buzzed as you are and it has the feel that we had hoped to acheive originally (sigh of contentment!). Our demonstrators are taking on PartiCraft with vigour and have started workshops, Craft Groups, Childrens Parties as well as Parties. Some of them have also started their own blogs too, so I have put links to them on here. Do not forget if you would like to host a party you can contact us at HQ or via the website and we will put you in touch with your nearest Demonstrator.

Make it is now practically a week away and we cannot wait, we shall be demonstrating many of the PartiCraft products as well as sharing the opportunity with you, it is also a great chance for to get your questions answered by Sheena and myself personally and of course Lois will be there too ready to take your details and give you any of the literature you need. My camera will of course always be near so many snaps will taken and blogged for sure. We are looking forward to seeing many of you there!

Secrets.... Shhhhhh

2008-05-05T10:59:00.004+01:00

Soo many secret little projects which does not make interesting blog reading! So I thought I would share a couple of sneak peaks with you for a couple of them. On a brighter note it has meant that as we have had a bank holiday weekend I have managed to get some creating done!!! I know I stepped aay from the computer long enough to create and it was fab! I really do get withdrawel symptoms if I do not make things on a regular basisWhat is even more impressive is that I have actually got housework done too! I know you would think that as I work from home for the majority of my time my house would be the epitome of cleanliness but the reality is ummm, no I work way too many hours and just never seem to have enough time but then I guess that that really is the same for everyone these days! LOL I have constantly vowed to try and organise my time better so I can get more done and more efficiently but what it comes down too is that I just trying doing too much in a mere 24hr period. I have relaxed a bit over the weekend though inbetween stressing about Nick's Mum who is in hospital and a few other emotional happenings but then I guess that is what makes the world turn and makes us appreciate life more.

For a good cause

2008-05-04T12:20:00.003+01:00

A year ago we had the terrible news that there was an accident on the A14 involving a family we knew and William a child in Kiesha's year at school died at the tender age of 8, it was devastating and to this day I do not know how Louise and her family cope. Louise is doing the 3 Peaks challenge in order to raise money for Brake a Road Safety Charity so as to try and stop more families being tragically torn apart.

Here is the link http://www.justgiving.com/williamelbrow?page=2#donationtable

I hope you can take the time to take a look and learn about a gorgeous little boy who many loved and adored.

The card

2008-05-01T22:54:00.006+01:00

Here is the pic - isn't he cute?! I love this stamp and cannot wait to have time to play with it a little more.

I want to say thank you to all the ladies that attended Jane's Party last night and also to Carol for her hospitality during the training today. Hopefully I shall have some more creations to share with you tomorrow x

Welcome!

2008-04-30T17:12:00.004+01:00

A huge big welcome to today's Demonstrator Sign ups - Marva in Bedford, Diana in Weymouth, Camille in Northampton and Johanna in Bridgend. I am really looking forward to meeting you all and doing your training. I have also got a card to share with you as I managed to sneak in a quick make in yesterday and a Christmas card no less! But unfortunately I just have not had time to take the picture! So today I was training and tonight I have a party to take in Braybrook, then a bright and early start as I am training in Weston-Super-Mare tomorrow. Right back to getting organised for tonight!

New Demonstrators!

2008-04-28T21:27:00.005+01:00

Wow does it feel as though it is all go here at PartiCraft!

Welcome to Rebecca and Carine who signed up to be demonstrators today. It is so great to speak to so many of you and I cannot wait for your training sessions, my day has consisted of more talking than creating but I have some amazing ideas that will be shared with you all soon! I will also be demonstrating at a Party myself on Wednesday evening so I am really looking forward to that too.
Tomorrow I have my Craft Group in the morning and then I am still teaching an Intermediate Card making class in the evening. Wednesday during the day I have another training session and one on Thursday so I shall let you all know how it goes and just so you are not left out on the piccies I know Lynsay was none too happy with the last picture and we did not mention our Tea Boy Terry when I did the training in Surrey, yes Lynsay's Dad came along and was promoted to Tea Boy and he did a fantastic job in fact so good I am emailing him with all the dates of future training sessions! LOL

Updated!

2008-04-25T22:09:00.003+01:00

I know, I know beginning to get slack already! But in my feeble attempt to give you an excuse I have actually been really busy, yesterday I was training again and today has been a major catch up on paperwork etc... etc... I have also spoken to some great people once again and yes that is what makes me love my job! So we have another three new sign-ups so welcome to Alison, Victoria and John as well as Sarah. Rebecca is another lady I Spoke to today and she was just lovely, again I am amazed at how conversations can touch you and leave you in wonder!

Next week is a busy one again I have two training days booked on Wednesday and Thursday and some major creating to do for Make It!

Training

2008-04-23T20:35:00.008+01:00

Ok so the start was not quite as planned with the torrential rain and the traffic problems on the M25 but once we were all together it was fab and guess what..... eclairs! Oh bless Michelle for reading my blog the night before and blessing us with that little pressy - yes big smiles all round!
So with training well underway, new techniques being taught and general chat about Particraft we really got into the flow
And then Lyndsay brought out her fab coloured staples!! Ohhhh I love them and bless her she gave me some!I cannot wait to use them! Also Lyndsay is going to make some Anti-static bags - I cannot wait to see them and shall post pics of them as soon as I get them.

So thank you ladies for a fab day x

Variations

2008-04-22T23:55:00.008+01:00

Well I liked the card I did last night so much that I taught it during my craft group today, it was fab as it meant I could cover a couple of techniques too - so I thought I would share a couple of the variations I did today
This one is a colour and slight style variation and the one below was a colour and different embellishment variation

This afternoon I have been preparing for my training session tomorrow which is taking place in Surrey, I cannot wait! I also have another training day on Thursday so it is definately all go in the PartiCraft Camp, Sheena had a training session today and she informed me she got cakes! Well I would like to state here and now if any of my Demonstrators would like to make cakes you will certainly get loads of smiles, hugs and of course mentions on my blog too! And if anyone is so inclined toffee beats cake hands down!

By all accounts her training day was a great success and she even brought back a couple of cards that Lynn had made so pop on over to her blog to take a look

Midnight Crafting

2008-04-21T23:40:00.006+01:00

Midnight crafting? Ok well not completely but nearly - I have been creating in a different way today and it has all been computer work and it is top secret so shhhh...... (will tell you all when I can!) so I thought I would sneak in a quick card before I get to snuggle into my bed so here it isI love orange and black - it is such a striking colour combination and the slight accent of the cream really makes the detail stand out - this is a very different style of card for me but I like to push myself in other directions sometimes just to keep that creative flow going! Also I think sometimes it is great to create quick cards you know the start to finish in 10 mins kinda of card and that is all this one took - the clearing up mind, well that took a little longer!

Products used:
Black linen 12 x 12 Cardstock
Thank you unmounted rubber stamp set
2 x Cream A6 Card Blanks
My own Circle punch
Spiced Marmalade Distress Ink (love this ink pad!)
Black Archival Ink pad
Black journaling Pen

I stamped the images and made the ornage paper ribbon form the second g=cream card blank

Another New Demonstrator

2008-04-17T22:54:00.004+01:00

A big welcome to Paula who has just become a New Demonstrator - Paula came to our workshop at Ally Pally and we are pleased to Welcome her to the team

Paper Name Plaque

2008-04-16T22:58:00.003+01:00

Ok I know the picture is not very good and it really does not do the project justice but that is what you get when you take a picture at close to 11.00pm!
Products used:
Sophie Double Sided Paper
Bears Wizard Die
Forever yours Unmounted Stamp Set
CS White Embossing Powder
Perfect Medium
Vintage Photo Distress Ink
Lotsa Letters
I will try and get a better photo of this - but I wanted to do a Home Decor project and yes there is more coming soon

The show

2008-04-13T22:59:00.002+01:00

The show was amazing! Loved meeting so many of you, chatting, laughing - crying..... oh yes The greatest family made me cry! In that chocked kind of heart wrenching way from sharing a story so touching and so personal that you marvel at the way some one you have just met can touch in you in such a profound way, but more about them in a mo..... We loved the whole experience, the setting up

The Chatting...

The workshops....

and then let's not forget the wonderful people including what has now been decided as the Greatest Family ever, I cannot even begin to explain how adorable they were and the great news is that Lyndsay also signed up as a new Demonstrator too!

I would also like to say Hi to Deborah who popped along to say she is an avid reader of the blog! Wow so many great people and so many people that we will be contacting back about becoming a Demonstrator as well as those of you who requested to host a party, but for now...... I am going to bed!!!!

Check..... Check.... Check.......

2008-04-11T08:51:00.001+01:00

Samples... Check, Sample Boards... Check, Inks, radiant rain, Cosmic Shimmer, Acrylic Block, Stamps, Scrapbook Papers, Wow I think I must have written list upon list of all the items I needed to take with me to Ally Pally - above is a pic of a fraction of items - oh yes - once I go on over to HQ to pick up Lois and all the forms, catalogues etc... my Galaxy will be full to the brim. I am getting so excited, I am really looking forward to meeting many of you and it is so nice that a lot of you have called to say you are coming over and some have also booked on the workshop so I shall look forward to seeing you there too. I will of course be taking my camera so many of you will be snapped on our stand! We are hoping to add the pics to a gallery on the site. Right well I had better finish getting organised!

Get well Sheena

2008-04-10T22:44:00.000+01:00

My partner in crime is poorly :( In fact so poorly that she might not make it too Ally Pally :( :(

I know Sheena is gutted and not only suffering but also feeling worse that she may miss out on an event that she has prepared for and looked forward to immensely. So pop on over to Sheena's blog and wish her well. Sheena I send you loads of get well wishes as well as big hugs x

Gift Bags

2008-04-09T16:30:00.001+01:00

I am loving these bags and the best news about them is they are going to be available for you to peruse on the PartiCraft website as a video tutorial - they are so cute and the perfect gift bag or indeed just as a gift in their own right! I adore them and will be making a couple at Ally Pally so make sure you stop on by to come and take a gander. And on mentioning Ally Pally I spent a rare few hours at HQ with Lois, packing all the demonstrators manuals and paperwork into our swanky new Carrier bags - even Kiesha came to help as it is half term so it was definately all hands on deck!

Mini Book

2008-04-07T21:44:00.001+01:00

Well you know me - I LOVE making mini books especially when they are then turned into Mini albums - so here is my latest project

This little mini album is all about the shows we saw at Zoo Marine in Albufiera in Portugal in Aug 2006
It seemed to suit this occasion perfectly and gave me the chance to reminisce on our last holiday

(SIGH) oh happy days

Creatin!

2008-04-04T17:43:00.001+01:00

Oh lucky me - I actually got time to make a couple of projects today so I made a card and a LO and loved every minute of it! These projects will be available as project sheets for our demonstrators along with a host of other crafting projects.

Heart Card

2008-04-03T17:45:00.003+01:00

Sometimes colours just fall together perfectly; as if they were just waiting for you, well that is exactly how this card came together
I used:
Fancy Pants Dessert Paper
Ivory Card stock
Cranberry Adirondack Ink Pad
Shabby Shutters Distress Ink Pad
Key Lime Ribbon Pack

Forever Yours Unmounted Rubber Stamp Set

The Cranberry and Shabby shutters inks went perfectly with the stamps, papers and the Key Lime Ribbon - and after the card was done Cranberry Adirondack ran away with Shabber Shutters and got united , let's hope they do not live to regret that decision for I am sure future ink unisons will prove to be just as good if not better.........

Designer/Organiser Tip

2008-04-02T08:55:00.001+01:00

Here is a designer tip for you or just as a more organised approach to your crafting - it is difficult to be able to have all of your papers on show; so make up a swatch book, especially with the your most popular plain card stock, I have made a 4"x4" swatch book of the plain card stock and then cut a 12"x12" sheet in half for the Fancy Pants range, when I bound the patterned papers together I have the front first and then the back behind. This is because when I am designing I do not want to have to keep flipping the pad to see if my colours will match.

I will be taking these swatch books to Ally Pally so you are more than welcome to come and have a flip through to see all the amazing papers we have and feel the quality for yourself!

Don't forget if you haven't booked on our Workshop yet then you will need to be quick click here to book your place for the Saturday and click here to book your place for the Sunday

I've been Particrafted!

2008-03-30T22:56:00.000+01:00

Now I am fortunate to have my own Craft/Design room but there is only so much space - so today saw the de-cluttering of the room to make way for all the PartiCraft range and in such a way that I have it to hand and on show for easy designing

so I now have one VERY organised room

Just such a shame I cannot say that about the rest of the house!!! So what you may ask am I going to do with all that crafting stuff?

Well Ebay is a wonderful thing!

Well I just do not have room for my personal stash (and believe me..... there is alot!) as well as all the PartiCraft items and yes there is alot of that too! And well let's face it I am going to be sooo busy that I am just not going to have enough time for personal crafting LOL

Welcome to Particraft Blog

2008-03-26T19:07:00.000Z

I know it would appear that I am the blogging queen! I mean how many blogs does one person need? - Well this blog will be replacing my Traci Cornelius one - here I can keep you informed of all the PartiCraft goings on, events, training, projects etc.... etc.... in true Particraft style - well it is all in the titles darling don't you know?! Ahuh this is http://www.traciatparticraft.blogspot.com/ so there really can be no confusion!