The Crafts House

...its in the words..

2012-01-26T12:55:00.000-08:00

...everybody has baggage...
to love and be loved is to help unpack together..

..Shape of the Month..

2012-01-18T12:02:00.000-08:00

...the Shape of the Month for January is...
a simple square..but there is so much you can do with a little square of wood...

..it's in the words...

2012-01-08T16:31:00.000-08:00

..in the blog spotlight...

2012-01-03T17:47:00.000-08:00

...a new blog to check out..Strawberry Patches has been in hiding for a bit but Brendie is now out from behind the curtain and is right here waiting for you to go over and say a massive HI....
i think i am going to do a "blog spotlight" more often as i think you will agree there are some fab ones out there..let me know of the ones you would like in the spot light and we'll all be "hopping" over there

..hee hee an image has just come to mind of us all like little rabbits hopping all over the place..can i be the one with dungarees on and knitted..( ok..ok I've been hibernating at home for a while)

.new workshops..

2012-01-02T04:24:00.000-08:00

..the new workshop list is on the blog..(click on the tab at the top of the page to view)..I'm excited as Journaling is going to be part of our regular workshops..i have been writing in journals since i was young ...but art journals are even better because you get to paint and clart(spell check still confused over this one!!) and get messy and have the best time..recently they have become my lifeline as it doesn't matter what you create the process of art journaling unlocks the brain if that makes sense...

I am also really pleased that 'Mavis and Gladys' are still going to be coming to 'the hill' to pass on their wonderful knowledge and techniques at our Sewing Bee,all of us said the same thing last year that we learnt Sooo much from them and the goodies and cakes were great.

..Happy New Year..

2011-12-31T05:18:00.000-08:00

You can clutch the past so tightly to your chest that it leaves your arms too full to embrace the present.

~ Jan Glidewell

Hi everyone...i'm hoping you have all had a lovely Christmas with your family's and are getting ready for a fab 2012..i want to take the time to say a massive thank you to all our friends and customers who have been so lovely and have supported us and our little studio on "the hill", we couldn't do it without you all and i am looking forward to seeing everyone again and catching up.....

...we will be opening The Crafts House on

...Saturday 7th January...

10.00am -12.30pm adult class

1.00pm - 3.00pm teen class

3.30pm - 5.30 pm children's class

Our new class and workshop schedule will be posted on the blog over the next few days( the tabs at the top of the page will take you to the relevant page) we will also have a leaflet in the studio or if you would like it e.mailed just let us know.

...New Wooden Shape for December...and a few other things...

2011-11-30T12:18:00.000-08:00

..it wouldn't be December without Santa....

....these little winter characters were a project for the guides i made into kits this month..they are made from garden seed pots that are painted and embellished with antlers and ears..

...Lucie the happy quilter has a great give away on her blog this week that you might like to enter...http://luciethehappyquilter.wordpress.com/2011/11/29/my-heart-christmas/

..i wanted to give a little shout for Jackie and her Craft Business..Jackie paints and creates with some of our wood blanks...as well as lots of other goodies she makes

Jackie is selling her wonderful handmade goodies at Craft Fairs in Beamish over the next couple of weeks..if you have time go along and say hello..she will be there on the following dates and times

Saturday 3rd December
Sunday 11th December
The above are 10.00am until 4.00pm

Friday 9th December and Friday 16th December and these will be open 4.00pm until 9.00pm. Beamish is only open for the evening on these two Fridays.
----------------------------------

...not many painting days left until Santa gets here..i am looking forward to all our workshops in December, i love all the fun and festiveness..

..thankful..

2011-11-24T01:40:00.000-08:00

..Happy Thanksgiving to all our friends in America and especially to my family...looking forward to our meal tonight...i have lots to be thankful for..

...it's in the words...

2011-11-17T16:06:00.000-08:00

My life has a superb cast but I can't figure out the plot.

~author unknown

...everything grinds to a halt...

2011-11-16T09:07:00.000-08:00

..just when you think you are racing ahead..just when you make the to do list to beat all to do lists..just when....you get attacked by "the dreaded lurgy"( a chest infection and flu bug)..after 5 days away from "the hill"..i am happy to say we will be open on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday this week..and back to normal next week...
Tomorrow...the Amazing Amy will be assisting me in trying to pull an elephant out of the hat (tight squeeze!)..a daring new trick called.."can we prepare 50 Girl Guide kits"....watch the daring "Lucie and Viv walking the tight rope without a safety net" and our much loved performance.... " teaching a group of enthusiastic young artists on Saturday"...roll up... roll up.. get your tickets now..
Note to self.......stop taking the tablets!!

...New Wooden Shape...and Halloween...

2011-11-02T12:07:00.000-07:00

..It's the beginning of November and the time for the Wooden Shape of the Month..
a little bit late on posting but here goes..this month it is a wine bottle, great tag to hang over a bottle of vino when you give as a gift, especially with the "family name" written on..

..Halloween "on the hill" was a lot of fun with parties for the teens(on Friday night) and younger painters(on Saturday afternoon)...i am kicking myself for not taking photos of the "Diary Dames" visit on Sunday morning as Lucie (the lovely Lucie of "Lucie the happy quilter fame") dressed up as the "Quilting Police"..read her blog when she explains getting stuck in the boiler suit!!!!a giggle

..i really enjoyed the Teens night, i do have to re think the pizzas though as i had a couple of glitches..sorry girls,i will get better.. Katie's cake was amazing..

Katie's fab cake!!

..next pictures are of the younger painters..they were fab..

..Deck of Art...

2011-10-20T13:51:00.000-07:00

...i thought it was about time i caught up with my deck of art so here goes with a few of my latest ones..only 17 more to go and that will be 52 completed...can't quite believe it..Michelle and Terri post their Card Art every week, i love seeing what they have created..

...i have gone a bit mad with the 'utee'...but i love that stuff..

..a wonderful life...

2011-10-19T08:02:00.000-07:00

..apart from being my all time favorite Christmas movie and the one my family watch every year on Christmas eve...this week has confirmed what i already know..i have "A Wonderful Life"....10 years on "the hill" is not just our business..it all started on our porch in Texas in 100 degree heat...we decided to have ago, start our own business.. pack up and sell our house, up root our 5 children from where they had grown up for 14 years..and move back...the 5 of them have been a massive part of the last 10 years and we couldn't have done it without them..they are the loveliest 5 people we know...
On Monday we had an all day tea party and from 9am - 9pm our lovely crafter's and customers dropped in to chat and craft..here are a few of the memories from that day..

10 years in Business

The Crafts House at Christmas

the amazing Amy made this..

Amy and Kirsty

Stephanie and Mam too...

David...couldn't do Saturdays without him

the lovely 'Leonora' and the man who makes it all work...David

..one of Kirsty's Delicious cakes..

..Nicola has been baking again..where would we be without her..

..the flowers are so beautiful..big big thank you Lucie and Chris

Lucie and Jill discussing who is going to get the biggest cake!...

..Carolyn...so lovely...

..we still managed to squeeze some crafting in!!..

..it was a sunny day too..(until the rain and wind arrived)

..Lauren..

..Helen..

..Liz and Jessica..

Theresa and Anna (Anna has been crafting nearly every week for 7 Years!!)

..Emma, Lucy and Amy..sisters who have crafted for 8 Years!..our longest crafting family!!

..Wyn and the girls..Wyn has been coming to the Crafts House for all of our 10 years!!

..there are lots of crafter's and customers that are not shown here but they have all supported us and made The Crafts House what it is today so a massive THANK YOU from David,Sandra and Family for everything....

..10th Birthday..

2011-10-16T23:53:00.000-07:00

..thank you to all our wonderful crafter's..we couldn't have done it without you..

..it's in the words...

2011-10-14T15:56:00.001-07:00

October gave a party;
The leaves by hundreds came -
The Chestnuts, Oaks, and Maples,
And leaves of every name.
The Sunshine spread a carpet,
And everything was grand,
Miss Weather led the dancing,
Professor Wind the band.

~George Cooper,

...Libby's workshop....

2011-10-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

...Sunday was a grand day to paint flowers..Libby's Flowers

....techniques.. practicing..painting...everyone finished their plaques and what a great job they all did..BIG thank you to Libby for teaching such a good workshop...

...i'm missing Kath's plaque..she hates her photo being taken!

..i took a couple of pictures of a yellow poppy that opened in our garden this weekend..such a pretty flower

...New Wooden Shape...

2011-09-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

...Wooden Shape For October....

...gingerbread buttons..looove gingerbreads....

..the learning goes on...

2011-09-29T13:24:00.000-07:00

....sometimes we doubt we're good enough..we doubt our abilities..
...just do the best you can...it will be enough...

..catch up.....

2011-09-28T08:25:00.000-07:00

...amazing weather here in the North of England...it was a day off and went to get my hair cut and a mooch around Newcastle..lunch down by the river with la familiar ..lovely,lovely time..

..new motorbike shape to paint this week for a little girl to give to her Dad

..and look who arrived early "on the hill"

...his eyes tell it all!!

..splotch monsters...

2011-09-23T02:19:00.000-07:00

we are going to have a "splotchy" time in Saturdays little artists class...all inspired by this blog.....

a splotch monster a day....this is my kind of paint fun...

....it's in the words...

2011-09-23T01:54:00.000-07:00

"A 'No' uttered from the deepest conviction is better than a 'Yes' merely uttered to please, or worse, to avoid trouble."

-Mahatma Gandhi

..catch up with life "on the hill"..

2011-09-20T15:12:00.000-07:00

..it's the next installment of life "on the hill"..and first on the list are the "Cestria Patchwork Quilters" who came to the hill in a convoy (so no one got lost!!)... Glynis (who paints with her granddaughter on the hill and is another of life's lovelies) organised the event and it was a non stop evening..hope i didn't wear them out!!

.. in between regular classes and workshops i have been catching up with painting for Christmas.. gingerbread's have been high on my list and this chunky ginger is my favorite this year

my gingerbread wish is.......ticking off as many things on my to do list AND a playtime AND that laughter that chases away the frowns..

..need to start on my baking for Christmas..cake,pudding and pies...always lots of pies

..so still..so quiet...the soul needs that sometimes

another ginger crept in...

The Diary Dames came to visit on Sunday..Doreen, Carol, Lucie, Sarah, Kate, Wendy,and Jill....love their visits..makes the sunny in Sunday..

quite a few of these being cut and base coated ready for....

Libby's Workshop...a couple of spaces left...it's going to be a good one..i'm in charge of refreshment and changing the water pots!!

all of these wood blanks are in different stages of painting..to make this jolly fellow for the shop..

..he always makes me smile...

..autumn @ The Crafts House...

2011-09-16T13:15:00.000-07:00

...this last 10 days have been full of busy busy crafting days,workshops and adventures..i am going to try and have a catch up with pictures and events over the next few days...our autumn workshops last Friday and this Friday were great and lovely,lovely people who made the workshops a lot of fun..BIG THANK YOU to all who came and Created...can't wait for our Christmas workshops now...

...seasons

table set and ready for action...

...a time to create

....a time to get messy

....a time to share

.....to be with good friends

....friends who are sharing

..a basket of friends

.....friends forever

.....the friends who make you laugh (i just had to put this in!! the lovely C will understand)

....friends you share and laugh with

......a family of friends

......a time to eat chocolate and cake.....

..it's in the words...

2011-09-15T12:59:00.001-07:00

Laugh as often as possible. You must. Because the world will offer you every reason to weep.

So as often as possible, you laugh.

Maya Angelo

...Deck of Art...

2011-09-11T09:25:00.000-07:00

..2 deck of arts to show this week as i missed last weekend..the themes are "back to school" and "yellow"..its been harder this last 2 weeks to fit this in as life "on the hill" is moving at quite a pace..determined not to stop as its such a great project..big thank you to Shell for this idea and all her lovely inspiration and hop over to Terri and see her lovely art cards this week..

..this next picture is of a card i made this week for a really nice young guy to give to his girlfriend..

...it's in the people you meet...

2011-09-06T13:58:00.000-07:00

..it's Tuesday and Lauren came to "the hill" for our weekly crafting time..Lauren has been designing and painting her glass jar ready to turn it into a pin cushion..today we cut out the material and did the sewing part..it was lovely..we chatted..laughed..learnt new skills..and achieved another goal in her journey..oh and ate Blue Ribands...

..yesterday Sarah and Michelle came for week 4 of their crafting adventure...this week it was cats and a princess for "Millie" who is Sarah's mother-in-law in America..no chocolate as Sarah sticks to her tea and weight watchers biscuit.. that's why she is loosing weight and i am not!

..back to today and before i left i painted backgrounds for a new journal..i have decided with this journal i am going to prepare all the pages with backgrounds and then go back and journal,doodle and generally faff..

...it's been a day to organize..i'm ready to rumble...

2011-09-02T12:01:00.000-07:00

..i got to the "hill" nice and early..mug of tea..chocolate and i didn't look up until 80 kits + 12 samples + some new Christmas designs were finished .. all packed..designs ready for "Wood Cutter Extraordinaire" to cut..and i was jamming...

..i almost forgot...tomorrows "little people's" art class project..it's "the funky fairy"..my playtime today..

...it's in the words...

2011-09-01T12:21:00.001-07:00

Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.
~Twyla Tharp~

...New Wooden Shape...

2011-08-31T10:48:00.000-07:00

...Wooden Shape For September..

..inch-ies and two-inchies..

2011-08-29T12:51:00.000-07:00

..really enjoyed putting together this frame, frame is covered with text then painted and gold rubbed on edges..each square is created using different papers,paint,stamps,embossing and the really amazing UTEE..one day i'm sure you'll come to "the hill" and i will have UTEED everything!!

..today was soo busy, i have to say i love all the bustle and everyone working on their own projects..it was week 3 for Sarah and Michelle's "Crafting Adventure"...a lot of laughs and a "weight watcher" biscuit..

...Deck of Art...

2011-08-28T12:08:00.000-07:00

....the theme for this weeks deck of art is "inchies"..mini canvas's that were a lot of fun to make..

...here's your sign..

2011-08-27T16:16:00.000-07:00

...found this sign while browsing the net..

..play day...

2011-08-26T14:42:00.000-07:00

...i had a play day today and met up with Lucie and Sarah for a lovely time at the Milkhope Centre

...a really nice time and of course plenty of chatter and scones and coffee and tea

..we also had a good look around at the lovely shops and gallery there..
then i paid a visit to Just Quilting for some fabric therapy

..Carols fabric shop is full of gorgeous fabrics and lots of projects to choose from..a really warm welcome and a hot mug of coffee..i also had a chance to see some of the lovely projects the ladies were working on

...and we chatted (as you do..or should i say I do!!)...i pur-chased some yummy fabrics for a couple of workshops i'm doing and a couple to keep for stroking (as you do!!sounds like a strange habit..but i know some of you are seeking treatment for this as well!!)

..i hasten to add i did not buy all of these fabrics!!they were the ranges i chose from...

...royalty free artwork...

2011-08-24T13:43:00.000-07:00

If you would like images that are royalty-free, subscribe to Dover Publications email list and you'll get free samples of royalty-free art each week, here's a couple of examples that I've used in a children's class..great for journals,backgrounds,ideas....

..it's my birthday...

2011-08-24T04:11:00.000-07:00

...it was party time "on the hill" for Emma yesterday and 14 little ladies gathered to paint (the little dogs made an appearance again)..they were so well behaved and everyone went home happy with their painted dogs..i have to say the cupcake stand impressed me as well as the handmade cupcakes.. yummylishous...(Google didn't recognize that one either..hee hee)

.. Michelle and Sarah's time "on the hill"..and the flight of the bees...

2011-08-22T14:17:00.000-07:00

..last Monday i posted about my Monday memories and told you about Sarah and Michelle, two friends who had come to paint for the first time...today they came for visit number 2 and they have made me realize that we soon forget what it was like to learn a new craft or skill....i have always wondered if i would get fed up with what i do...it really is my everyday, when i am not "on the hill" ..i am "clarting" (Google does not recognize this word!!mucking about) at home..playing with designs,card art,journals,new projects..i don't know where home and work separate, i think it is that much a part of me it just is me...
Thank you Sarah and Michelle for that infectious giggle and Monday memories..

..tonight was our second Quilting Bee with Mavis and Gladys and the "Quilting Bees" were hard at working on their next part

...Deck of Art...

2011-08-21T13:31:00.000-07:00

...a couple of weeks missing with my deck of art so 2 to share today.."nursery rhymes" and the "games people play"

..hope to get back on track and post every week, it won't be that long till we finish the year...

..it's in the words...

2011-08-20T15:04:00.000-07:00

Courage does not always roar, sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying “I will try again tomorrow”

Mary Anne Radmacher

Mary is a really beautiful writer and artist..

...Monday memories...

2011-08-15T16:12:00.000-07:00

....when i am old and grey (getting older..and there's grey!!) i will look back at crafting days "on the hill" with so many good memories..really lovely people..making and creating..drinking teas and coffees,sharing stories and laughs..today was one of those memory days..

.... thanks to...Carolyn,Sylvia,Emma,Kath,Hazel,Helen,Heather,Dorothy,Margaret,Theresa,Jodie for today

..a special mention to Sarah and Michelle, two friends who came in to paint late this afternoon for the first time and really did make me smile..

..Catch up with the incredibly talented teens....

2011-08-14T15:34:00.000-07:00

..1.00pm Saturday and the door opens and a group of the most talented teens i know arrives..we have been working on altered books for quite a while now and in September we will start a new project..in the mean time everyone has been finishing pages in their books and making an assortment of little projects..here are a few pics of the "creativeness" on Saturday..

Emma and her creations

Tweedledee and Tweedledum
..Emma made them from metal spoons covered in brown paper ,then painted

Rose with a fab hair bow

Emma and Lucy, sisters who have been coming to classes for 8 years!

the lovely Anna

...great work thanks to Emma,Lucy,Rose,Anna, Ellen, Laura, Rebecca,Fern, Katie, Jennifer, Rachel,Emma,Amy for making Saturdays FUN...

2011-08-12T12:31:00.000-07:00

There are 5 things in life you cannot recover:

A stone...after it's thrown.

A word...after it's said.

An occasion...after it's missed.

The time...after it's gone.

...A person...after they die.

Life is short. Break the rules. Forgive quickly. Kiss slowly. Love truly. Laugh uncontrollably, and never regret anything that made you smile. Enjoy Life!!

...Circle Bag Workshop....

2011-08-10T12:45:00.000-07:00

...Carolyn is teaching again on "the hill"..this time a circle bag..your bag can have your choice of design on the circles..applique..painted..patchwork.. stitchery...

Carolyn will then teach how to sew and quilt your circle bag

Workshop Friday 7th October 1.00 - 4.00pm
£20 includes pattern and goodies to eat and coffee and teas to drink

..it's in the words...

2011-08-07T14:04:00.000-07:00

...A laugh is a smile that bursts....

...New Wooden Shape...

2011-07-31T15:45:00.000-07:00

...it's that time again to introduce our new shape of the month...

Wooden Shape For August..

..The Hedgehog...and as the saying says.."Hedgehogs need Hugs too"....

...Deck of Art...

2011-07-31T14:30:00.000-07:00

...two themes to be posted today....Myths and Magic...and...Quilting...

..Michelle and Terri have their cards posted as well..

...ready for take off..

2011-07-26T12:54:00.000-07:00

..my Deck of Art from last week has been awaiting a photo so i will post with this weeks Deck of Art nearer the weekend
....on to the first of our "Sewing and Quilting Bees" we are to meet on the 4th Monday of the month and i was getting excited..especially when the flight of bees were ready for take off...

...Mavis and Gladys had planned a wonderful evening and everyone was soon buzzing along...

..i do have to mention a certain cat lover.. Helen...who was delighted with her material and how much she achieved..

..a big thank you to Mavis and Gladys for giving us a great night, can't wait until Aug 22nd for the next one...

..i want to mention again that we have wonderful fabric shops in our region (click on names on side bar) where you can see wonderful ranges of fabrics and supplies, they also run really good workshops...one of the workshops i wish i could attend is Lucies..Jelly Roll Quilt...i love the colours she uses in her quilts..

... i recently finished painting a "Fuse box cover" for a customer and really enjoyed it, a whimsical way to cover a rather ugly fuse box...

...only 5 days until the new shape of the month..has to be one of my favorites...and i have Karen to thank for this one..

...i'm happy now..

2011-07-15T15:11:00.000-07:00

...i managed to finish the Deck of Art "Night in the Museum"...i like now...too much thought over something that is only 3x2 inches of art space..but i love these art cards and wasn't going to be beaten!..

..here are a couple of pictures of a project i will be doing with the children's classes tomorrow..liked painting and collageing this..

and finally a picture of a chunky house all wrapped and ready for send off..

...it's that time already...

2011-07-13T03:32:00.000-07:00

...we are at the point in the week where its my day off and i try and cram 30 hours into a 24 hour day..i haven't posted my deck of art because...."Night at the Museum" is causing a delay this week while i sort out my ideas....
..i did want to post about something new "I can't wait till it starts as i want to join in but i will be teaching the painting "!! happening on "the hill"starting on Monday 25th July (phew are you still with me!)

designed and painted by Brendie

created by Gladys and Mavis

...Mavis and Gladys (aka Brendie and Alison) are two friends who have inspired me in sewing with their attitude towards learning how to sew and Quilt and i am soo pleased we are going to be able to combine this with the existing "arty clartyness" that happens "on the hill"...this is NOT in anyway a replacement to the wonderful fabric shops that are in our region who do a wonderful job in keeping us supplied with the most gorgeous fabrics and classes..this is as the label says.... Stitchin' Friends....

...Deck of Art...and a poem..

2011-07-06T10:28:00.000-07:00

..a little bit late this week and i have to say i very nearly didn't post this week as its not one of my favorite ones..but the Lovely Lauren made me see another side to it by saying " its lovely and light like summer" so on the blog it went (we' re not meant to like everything we do are we?)... The theme is "A Day at the Seaside" this week and then it's "A Night at the Museum"...

All about Home

Home is the place your heart resides

Home is the place that you decide

Home is the womb that holds the soul

Home is the place where one is whole

Home is the glow you hold in your eye

Home is the emotion that makes you cry

Home is safe and a place of peace

Home is where all strivings cease

Home is protective against the others

Home is full of sisters and brothers

Home is where you find your rest

Home is where you feel your best

Home is a memory that follows your being

Home is a dream for those agreeing

Home is the place where reserves fall

Home is the place you yearn to call

Home is where the family meets

Home is a place of restful retreats

Home is the place you know you’ll be heard

Home is the pace where nothing blurs

Home is all these wonderful things

Home is the place you develop wings

Home is the place that you’ll find one day

Home is the place where your heart will stay

...A.Patterson...

...4th July...

2011-07-03T16:03:00.000-07:00

...Happy 4 th of July..to Leonora,Kirsty,Amy,Stephanie, David and our friends in America..

...New Wooden Shape...

2011-06-30T12:56:00.000-07:00

...it's that time again to introduce our new shape of the month...
Wooden Shape For July

..well done to Lucie and Shell for guessing it was a cat!..you've given me an idea now Terri for an Elf!!

..it's in the words...

2011-06-29T04:11:00.000-07:00

"You were born an original.

....... Don't die a copy."

~ John Mason

..something i painted today...

2011-06-27T13:49:00.000-07:00

...a lovely day..with lovely people...lots to talk about..lots to paint.. an order for a ladybird blackboard was painted for a 2 year old's play house

..I thought it might be fun to paint the walls in the shop..it's fun!!

...a sneak peek at next months shape of the month...any guesses?

...Deck of Art... and all sorts....

2011-06-26T02:36:00.000-07:00

....theme for the deck of art was circles this week..one side i painted with watercolors and side 2 with inks and paint...

...a lovely time was had in the children's class yesterday sketching outside..

hard at work with pencil and paper..

Emily...a winner in the Radio Times art competition..

..artists of the future..

..our littlest artist Rosie...

...the 2 Georgina's much prefer to be inside...

..we had a lovely holiday in Wales with the lovely Leonora and Liam...didn't want to leave..

..baked by the Lovely Leonora...

..an old favorite friend "Russ" 26 years old in July...

...a quick post...

2011-06-12T12:45:00.000-07:00

...i just had to show you this wonderful bag that Lucie gave me as a pressie today when she came to "the hill"

I Love It!!! the pattern is soon to be available and the wonderful materials are at Just Quilting...

...Deck of Art...and a short break...

2011-06-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

...this week it is silver and gold...and a hint of Klimt from me...really enjoyed this one

...we had our Summer @ The Crafts House yesterday...a lovely time had by all...hop over to Kate who has given such a lovely write up and pictures too...while you are there check out her stitching and needlework..is there such a thing as stitcher envy??

..i will be absent for a short while as i am off on a trip to see our most lovely Leonora and Liam..can't wait..really miss her....leaving you with this little quote

"You can't stay in your corner of the Forest waiting for others to come to you. You have to go to them sometimes.

Winnie the Pooh

2011-06-08T12:51:00.000-07:00

..thought you might like to see what i painted yesterday..the box is parceled and flying to France..the plate is waiting for pick up tomorrow....

looking forward to Friday I will be teaching the "Summer @The Crafts House" workshop..this is a nice relaxing time and an excuse to eat cakes..having a try at baking a Strudel this time..fingers crossed it works..

...Deck of Art...

2011-06-04T16:17:00.000-07:00

...i can't believe i'm managing to post on time this week!! check out Michelle and Terri's Art Cards for lots of inspiration...

...New Wooden Shape...

2011-05-31T14:25:00.000-07:00

...The Crafts House

Wooden Shape of the Month

Purchase our new wooden shape at 50% its normal retail price

...June Wooden Shape........

...my personal favorite is the patchwork sheep..my favorite style to paint..

...Deck of Art...

2011-05-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

...this week it is..something old something new.old letters and jewelery..new stamps and tiles..

...next week to continue the theme it will...something borrowed.. something blue..

...Deck of Art...

2011-05-25T16:04:00.000-07:00

...this week the theme is quotes or a saying..

...it's in the words...

2011-05-19T13:53:00.000-07:00

...."No one can whistle a symphony. It takes a whole orchestra to play it. ".....
~ H.E. Luccock

...Deck of Art...

2011-05-16T06:24:00.000-07:00

..this weeks deck of art is a little different as we made it in our children's class on a large playing card..first the card was covered with glue and brown paper,then we painted and then we made our funny chicken...my favorite now..

...it's in the words...

2011-05-11T16:13:00.000-07:00

..."Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind."
~ Dr. Seuss

...Deck of Art...

2011-05-08T12:14:00.000-07:00

..i enjoyed using fabric,stitching and felt as an art medium....for me it shows life doesn't have to be perfect..it can be a bit wonky...i don't always get things in the right order...life is a patchwork of experiences,family, people we meet and for me art...

...New Wooden Shape...

2011-05-02T10:11:00.000-07:00

The Crafts House

Wooden Shape of the Month

Purchase our new wooden shape at 50% its normal retail price…this price will remain for the month of May ..purchase as many wood shapes at this price as you need....outline pattern included with each purchase...

...May Wooden Shape........

Owl Button

0.35p per button (R.R.P 0.70p)

....another in our growing collection of buttons..

....a loyalty to royalty...

2011-04-28T10:42:00.000-07:00

...i can't wait for tomorrow..bunting,breakfast and wedding watching..BBQ and sunshine with family..congratulations William and Catherine....

...it's in the words...

2011-04-22T02:42:00.000-07:00

"The greatest oak was once a little nut who held its ground."

~ Unknown

...Deck of Art...

2011-04-17T15:55:00.000-07:00

..this weeks theme is texture..i used a wall filler!! to create a texture then lightly painted over with water colours..the background is painted, inked and doodled

...it's in the words...

2011-04-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

"Never tell me the sky's the limit

.... when there are footprints on the moon."

~ Unknown

... teddy's sew too...

2011-04-13T12:32:00.000-07:00

....really enjoyed painting this Teddy Sewing organizer..a new wood project hanging "on the hill"..

...Deck of Art...

2011-04-10T10:00:00.000-07:00

..this week i made a card with label art..using sticky labels to create mini art pictures..i also created a faux stamp for the front using a larger label..

....Deck of Art so far....

...there's a rabbit in my kitchen...

2011-04-07T12:24:00.000-07:00

..some of our products are featured on Notonthehighstreet.com..and we have been selling a few of these again..it must be the season

..it's in the words...

2011-04-06T12:57:00.000-07:00

When the world says..."Give Up"
Hope whispers...

"Try it one more time"

...unknown...

...Deck of Art...

2011-04-03T15:57:00.000-07:00

...this weeks Deck of Art is all about buttons..you just can't get enough of buttons..they are useful..they hold memories..tiny ones..shiny..bold buttons..old buttons...they hang on by a thread..or sewn so tight they'll be all right...i remember my grandmas button tin...treasures..

...for more card art see Michelle and Terri

...New Wooden Shape...

2011-03-31T16:01:00.000-07:00

The Crafts House

Wooden Shape of the Month

Purchase our new wooden shape at 50% its normal retail price…this price will remain for the month of April ..purchase as many wood shapes at this price as you need....outline pattern included with each order...

...April Wood Shape..

Buzzy Bee 10cm x 7.5 cm MDF Blank Wood Shape

£0.77p each ( R.R.P £1.55)

...it's in the words...

2011-03-30T02:13:00.000-07:00

"He who trims himself to suit everyone will soon whittle himself away."

~ Raymond Hull

...New Workshops....

2011-03-29T13:04:00.000-07:00

....2 New Sewing Workshops to announce....Carolyn is back at The Crafts House teaching ..if you have taken one of her classes you'll know how much fun they are...and of course there's the food...hee hee..
Japanese Shoulder Bag Workshop

Friday 15th May...1.00- 4.00pm.....£16.50

(includes pattern and refreshments)

Folded Vanity Bag Workshop

...Friday 3rd June....1.00- 4.00pm.....£16.50

(includes pattern and refreshments)

..if you have any questions or would like to book onto any of these workshops please give us a call on 0191 4888508 or e.mail us at thecraftshouse@hotmail.co.uk

..i like Mondays...

2011-03-28T00:59:00.000-07:00

..it's monday and i like monday's..creativity at it's busiest..everyone working on different projects..show and tells..new techniques to learn....chat,chat,chat.....

Carolyn

Nicola and Kath are going to kill me for this pic..

Maureen

Sylvia

planning and measuring

Carolyn's paper fabric

Kath's..little doll hanger

Nicolas box and cupcakes..and a shortbread biccie on the box!!

Sylvia's paper fabric

Carolyn's letters decorated with paper,fabric and paint

..i get to see this lovely lady on Mondays..the amazing Amy..not for long though..she has a fab new job..

the biscuit barrel always out

...you can see why i like Mondays...

...Deck of Art...

2011-03-27T03:28:00.000-07:00

..this weeks Deck of Art is "Home"..the place i cherish most..it's warm..safe..funny..and inside are my family..the ones who know me best..and love me as i am..

"The home is the bottom line of life, the anvil upon which attitudes and convictions are hammered out. It is... the single most influential force in our earthly existence. No price tag can adequately reflect its value. No gauge can measure its ultimate influence ... for good or ill. It is at home, among family members that we come to terms with circumstances.

It is here life makes up its mind."

...... Chuck Swindoll

..."the Saturdays"...

2011-03-25T01:45:00.000-07:00

Helen and Karen

Alison's Fabric paper journal

brendie's snowman

Bernice working away

...this post is just for "the Saturdays"..the creative ladies who make my Saturday's.......
we paint,stamp,sew,journal,ink,share,laugh and the time goes too quick.....

..it's in the words...

2011-03-22T18:14:00.000-07:00

Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless."

~ Mother Theresa

.... wood and more wood...

2011-03-21T02:02:00.000-07:00

..the wood cutter extraordinare has been on "the hill" counting and checking,seeing how untidy i can be!...not really...it's stock taking time..i really like when we are at the shop together..not sure whether my constant chatter is good for wood counting though!!

..wood cutter's counting tie...

wood cutters cup of tea..one of many..

wood cutters detailed and very neat lists..

wood cutter double checking with counting pen in hand...

10 House key holders...

17 wooden pallet's

4 large A's...5 small a's

..you all don't get to see the wood cutter extraordinare. very often but behind the scenes he is what makes it all work...he keeps everything running smoothly..he's the best...

...Deck of Art...

2011-03-20T14:05:00.000-07:00

...back on track this week...my Deck of Art is about"chickens"...

...the statement on the card says it all....fear holds us back...sometimes i need to take a creative leap and not be scared

..the chicken menu for fun...

...so many creative people come to "the hill" and they don't think they are creative...i'm here to prove them wrong...some great Card Art...inspiration...

Alison-cats

Sylvia- rainbows

Sylvia-rainbows

Sylvia- i wish

Alison- buttons

Alison- chickens

Karen- rainbows..and look at the cute tin she stored her card art in!

Karen's rainbow..with zippy and co!!

...yesterday in the teenage art class we sponsored Amy for her Red Nose Sponsored silence..this wasn't easy as anyone that knows Amy..knows what a chatter box she is!!Well done Amy for raising money for charity

...don't forget to check out Michelle and Terri and their lovely card art..

....flower power...

2011-03-17T13:59:00.000-07:00

...i had a lovely visit from Lucie "thehappyquilter" today and she brought me the most gorgeous flowers..they made me smile all day and the smell is wonderful..thank you so much Lucie...

how perfect is that rose!

..Lucie has a great attitude to life and people... always nice always happy...has a never ending to do list..has "Dotty Doc Martins"....

..Shop Hop.....

2011-03-16T16:01:00.000-07:00

.... The Crafts House and Carol of Just Quilting have collaborated and worked out a

Shop Hop Project.

.... This is how it works:- You will make the cute "Birdhouse Quilt Hanger" at The Crafts House ,this will be a 3 Hour Workshop and aimed at all levels of experience..step by step all the way.... Contact Sandra at The Crafts House 0191 4888508 for further info.and to book your workshop.
Then it's the really pretty little quilt "Secret Pockets Mini Quilt" at Just Quilting.
This is a two hour workshop which you can book on a weekday. This pretty little quilt is a quick and easy make and aimed at all levels of experience. Don’t hesitate to contact Carol from Just Quilting at 0191 268 8144 for more info.and to book your workshop.
So join in the fun and make this project for spring.

...it's in the words....

2011-03-16T02:25:00.000-07:00

"Throw back the shoulders, let the heart sing, let the eyes flash, let the mind be lifted up, look upward and say to yourself... Nothing is impossible!"

~ Norman Vincent Peale

..a little bit of this...and not a lot of that...

2011-03-13T16:41:00.000-07:00

....a little glimpse of spring..painted letters for jack...but no Deck of Art...this is the week...i know it is..i will be ahead... OH NO I WON'T...OH YES I WILL..and so the battle goes on..but i had a lovely surprise when this young lady paid me a visit today...an extra time spent with Lovely Lauren...

...it's in the words.....

2011-03-08T15:35:00.000-08:00

"To be nobody but yourself in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you everybody else....... means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight; and never stop fighting."

~ e.e. cummings

...they inspire...

2011-03-08T00:14:00.000-08:00

have posted this picture before..but it does make me smile!!

...doesn't matter how big the work load is..how much is going on around me..how tired i might feel...Saturday arrives and the fun begins!!...they inspire me..make me laugh...make me think...make me remember....heres a snap shot of a Saturday....

jen's collage box

lots of inky playtime..creating backgrounds

ink+salt+the start of a background

...lots of colour

Laura's word prompt background