Paper Purchases

Despite having a drawer crammed full of scrapbooking paper, I think every now and then an injection of 'the new' is needed to help that creativity along the way......(well that is my excuse and im sticking to it.....although my husband may say I don't need an excuse to buy anything!).

Trawling the ebay aisles I came across these beautiful Laura Ashley papers. Having worked there myslef for several years I know how lovely their homeware department is, and in particular their wallpaper collection. These paper designs are based on those, so I really couldn't resist and had to buy them!

Im now looking forward to a weekend of paper makes.......photos to follow!

Things I would like to make.......

Im always coming across lovely things I would like to make. This weeks its this beautiful tweed bag from a beautiful book called 'The Perfect Handmade Bag' by Clare Youngs.

I love that the handle is made using a silk scarf, and is detachable so you can change it as you wish. Perfect for matching to an outfit.......or for when you just fancy a change. Great idea!

Canadian Sun

This weekend will mark the '5 months to go' point, for our return trip to Nova Scotia. This has been 2 years in the making, so its all very exciting. Amongst other things I am particulary looking forward to consuming a substantial amount of Tim Hortons doughnuts, and a stack of blueberry pancakes with Maple Syrup! (....you could say I have a slight sweet tooth!).

Still, I can't quite believe that its now so close, and  in celebration I have dug out some photos from the last time we were there 5 years ago.

I thought id share with you these gorgeous sunset shots from one of my favourite places in the world, Sandy Cove on the west coast of NS. Its a hidden gem, and we spent many evenings sizzling sausages on an open fire, whilst sipping beer, listening to K100 and watching the sun go down. I can't wait to back.....

Folksy finds......Beside the Sea

On a bright, sunny, winters day, the beach can be a beautiful place for an afternoon stroll. This weeks 'Folksy finds' has taken inspiration from this and has a sunny seaside theme. Pull up a deck chair, grab a '99' and enjoy.......

Abstract Sea Card - Aileen Clarke Crafts

Beach Hut Applique Cushion - The Quilted Teacup

Original Framed Brighton Pier Painting - Eddie Saul

 

Mother of Pearl Flower Necklace - Mummy Bird Pretties

 

'Sea' Art Print - Bear Graphics

 

  Hanging Beach Huts - Cush-n-Craft

Midweek Makes

Floral themes, beautiful papers, beads, wire and ribbon.

Spring Time Lovelies....on Etsy

I love living by the sea, never more than when the sun is out. Yesterday was a perfect day, cold but bright and sunny and I took the opportunity to venture down to the beach. It was beautiful but has now made me crave Spring time and warm weather.  Although I know its a little way off yet, I thought id share with you some beautiful spring inspired bits and pieces that i've spied on Etsy this weekend.

Breeze Patchwork Pillow - Lil Tulip

Retro Pin Cushion - Details by Des

Flower Birthday Card  - Lea's Letters

  Pleated Canvas Shoulder Bag - Bags by Lora

Bunting Flag Pillow Cover - Cotton Lane

You've Got Mail Necklace - Mijoya

Flower Notecards - The Paper Menagerie

Wonderful Websites

I have to say I am one those people that is never happier than when im surrounded by beautiful haberdashery bits and pieces and crafty papers and trimmings. If you're anything like me you may be interested in these 2 websites which were recommended to me during the week.

The first is Bedecked which has a great collection of unusual buttons, ribbons and lace, and which you can find at www.bedecked.co.uk/

The second is Fantastic Ribbons, where you will find a large selection of ribbons in every imaginable colour. www.fantasticribbons.co.uk/acatalog/index.html

I have been having fun browsing through their stock....and being tempted to buy. Here are favourites from each.

 Starry Shell Button - Bedecked

Flower Shell Button - Bedecked

  Filigree Patterned Button - Bedecked

Marco Polo Satin Ribbon - Bedecked

  Retro Green Spotty Ribbon - Fantastic Ribbons

 Twill Stripe Tape - Fantastic Ribbons

 Belmont Laurel Ribbon - Fantastic Ribbons