This post is based on making Brushos backrounds for cards. Brushos are watercolour ink crystals that react amazingly with water. They come in a wide range of colours and many of the colours further separate out into various different hues so there is a huge potential for colour combinations and effects. It has been a while since I've blogged about the regular get-togethers my friend Steph and I have to try out different card making techniques and to use some of the new 'toys' we have bought … [Read more...]
Fun Cards for Older Kids
In earlier posts I have written about how I have five nephews and how most of my kids' cards are based around boy themes. When the boys were younger, I had a stamp of a stick figure boy in shorts and a t-shirt and challenged myself to represent as many different boys' pastimes as I could on cards using the stick figure boy. As they got a bit older I found a great stamp that featured 3 boys with balls. I cut the stamp up so that I could use the boys in different combinations, … [Read more...]
Cool Weird Stuff for Kids
One of my nephews included "Cool Weird Stuff" on his list of presents he wanted for his birthday. Then he crossed it out, uncertain of how that might be interpreted. Presents from Auntie Sue will have certainly fallen into the 'weird' category compared with everything else they have got but hopefully some of them have also been considered 'cool' (perhaps when no-one else is around). I have often heard award-winning scientists saying that they were inspired by a microscope they were given when … [Read more...]
Digital Stamps: Cards for Kids
A relatively new addition to the stable of card making tools are digital stamps (or digi stamps). I must admit that I had been struggling with the concept and how it could really be compared with stamping using physical stamps and inks. I guess they are just a different format. Digital stamps certainly do have their advantages: You can print off a high quality image each time and colour it in You can print off a whole lot at a time for later use (saving time later) They come at a … [Read more...]
Making Gift Soaps
I've always liked the idea of making my own soap but the thought of using strong caustic chemicals in the process has put me off. My friend Ann has tried it and thought it was great fun so perhaps I will try it one day. But I have discovered that you can make fabulous hand-made gift soaps without the hassle of starting from scratch - and it is really quick, easy and fun. All you need is: some Melt & Pour Soap base Essential oils or fragrance oil(s) of your choice Colourant (if … [Read more...]
Making Origami Paper Dolls
Making origami paper dolls can be a fun activity - with or without kids! There are plenty of different kits available, both big and small, cheap or a bit more expensive. Or you can get your own origami paper and follow instructions that you can find online - such as this tutorial from Splitcoast Stampers or this one on WikiHow. Once you have made your paper dolls you can use them for all sorts of things depending on their size and shape. You could put one or more in a box picture frame … [Read more...]
Decorating Candles
Making your own decorated candles can be a great idea for a simple but impressive gift for all sorts of occasions. You can make Christmas themed candles or beach-themed candles, or make a matching card and candle to celebrate a new baby. And it is simple enough for kids to make too - a unique gift for a special teacher perhaps. When I first saw candles that looked as though the images were printed right into the candle, I was amazed. But once you know the secret it is very easy. You will … [Read more...]
Making Bath Salts
Making bath salts is very easy - perfect for kids to make. They are always a welcome gift for soothing tired muscles and healing the skin. They also neutralise your skin so that the fragrant oils cling to it and smell wonderful for hours. A fragrant relaxing bath is a great way to de-stress and an affordable luxury. The basic recipe is: 1 cup Epsom Salts 1 cup Coarse Sea Salt 10-20 drops essential oils* (I usually prefer to put in double the amount) 10 drops food colouring or … [Read more...]