Magic Lady Crafts

Win a Artbin Bead N Bellishement Craft Storage Box

2011-07-05T09:28:00.003+01:00

Join us on Facebook and have a chance to win this Bead N Bellishment Craft Solutions Cabinet in our raffle

How To Paint on fabric

2011-02-01T21:38:00.004Z

Sparkler * Pearl * Neon

Glitter * Glow in the Dark * Slick

Painting in fabric is becoming a very popular craft and is used to create many different crafts. For example projects could range from making a greeting card, brightening up that old Tshirt to painting soft furnishing.

You can use fabric paints straight from the bottle and come in a variety of colours and shades. Non transparent colours are great for painting on dark or light fabrics where as transparent colours should only really be used on light fabrics. You can mix colours with ranges. Try the Pearl, Sparkler & Glitter colours together to give you project that sparkly look

When painting fabric it is advisable to lay a sheet of card between the fabric layers to prevent the ink seeping through the fabric and ruining your project. After applying the ink from the pen leave your project to dry for 12 hours before ironing and then iron on the reverse of the fabric for 5minutes

Fabric are washable once fabric paints have been applies but shouldn’t be any hotter that 40C

The History of Cross Stich & Embroidery

2011-01-30T21:09:00.001Z

Although printed patterns have been found as far back as 1525 it is thought that the golden age of cross stitch began in 1804. A man from named Phillipson a print seller from Berlin was developing block and coloured patterns for mass production. Many other printers followed and by 1840 there were printing over 14,000 designs a year.

The word embroidery comes for the Anglo-Saxon word for “edge”. This term firstly applied to stitched borders on medieval religious robes and after a while the word was also used to describe stitched decoration on any textile fabric, In 1828 the first embroidery machine was invented by Joseph Heilman making mass production embroideries, embroidery continued to be treated as a handicrafts as it had been in ancient times. If you look back in history embroidery has been used for many things for example, as an ornament for clothing, robes, wall hangings, linens and upholstery and rugs for domestic use.

Embroidery stitches could be very functional or just for decorating a piece of clothing. Applique work is stitched to the main cloth with decorative stitches; Smocking uses decorative stitches to secure gathers or folds which have already been formed. There are many names for stitches but the most common are chain stitch, blanket stitch, featherstitch, French knot, satin stitch cross-stitch and tent stitch. The thread used usually silk, wool, cotton or linen. In some 20thc century work some fine metallic wire has been found. Some types of embroidery are referred to by the kind of thread used for example crewel work is stitched in brightly coloured wool yarns on a natural beige or bleached white linen. Needlepoint it a form of embroidery but stitched on a canvas usually with the picture already printed on the canvas.

The earliest piece of embroidery includes cross stitch and dates back to the sixth or seventh centuries AD. Around this time folk art was becoming very popular and cross stitch decorated domestic items using geometric and floral patterns. Some of these patterns can still be found in books today

To start with cross-stitching was used t make working sampler. It was used as a means of recording a verse or a prayer. In 1797 orphaned children in a school in Bengal were given the task of stitching the longest chapters in the bible the 19th Psalm.

As pattern books became more accessible during the seventeenth century cross stitching was used to as an educational tool, teaching children needlework skills thought essential to young girls who would be making household linen and clothing. Many items would be produced for the home by these girls for example bell pulls, purses, cushions, fire screens, pincushions. and cushion covers.

In 1852 the first domestic sewing machine was invented and machine embroidered clothes were available at prices people could afford home stitching started to decline. But in the sixties when many women found they had a bit more time on their hands and Cross Stitch as we know it today was reborn

To do cross-stitch you need supplies and equipment such as embroidery threads, wool, needles, fabric and patterns. You can find all this equipment without having to leave the comfort of you home. The internet is a minefield of information. Below are a few example of what you will need to get you started. If you decide to buy a kit it will contain needle, fabric, needle and pattern

Aida Fabric is a material that has small square holes in it so you can sew when doing cross-stitching/embroidery. Aida comes in a lot of colours and sizes. You can get it in kits or on its own.

Embroidery silk usually comes in 8mtre skeins and is available in hundreds of different colours and Tapersty needles in different sizes

Embroidery hoops are used to hold the material taut for when you are sewing. Frames and stands are also useful for keeping large pieces of work taut and work can be also on show with this piece of equipment.

Good lighting for the work area is essential. If you work area is dark there are a variety of daylight bulbs available to suit you setting

Patterns can come from a magazine, books or the internet. (If you buy a ready made kit your pattern will be in the kit).

Although tapestries have been woven from lots of different yarns for years, it is said that the first yarn to be used was Jute. This is one of the world’s strongest fabrics and is used for making ropes, rugs & wall hangings. These days Jute is not used and most wall décor is woven from cotton to acrylic wool.

With so many fabrics to choose from its very hard to decide what type to buy. That decision will depend on what style of tapestry you are choosing to do and what sixe you need. The classic designs are wool tapestries and are much heavier and larger that other tapestry wall hanging. This types of tapestries are usually found in castles and large estate houses. Many medieval tapestries were woven from wool as sheep were a large part of medieval society

Cotton wall accessories are the most popular as they are not so heavy and much easier to keep clean. They are also a lot cheaper to make than the old wool tapestries but still looking like the old wool tapestries

How to use the Fiskar ShapeCutter Plus

2011-01-26T13:07:00.011Z

The Fiskar ShapeCutter Plus is designed to be used with the ShapeCutter Templates as well as a freehand cutting this new simplified design is easier to hold and has a new drop blade replacement

Crop and cut shapes and borders with ease and accuracy! The Fiskars ShapeCutter Plus offers free rein to your creativity when it comes to making cards or livening up your scrapbooks. Ideal for paper, photos, card and a variety of thin materials.

This new ergonomic design has softgrip pads for better comfort and even more control over the blade depth. It also includes a new freehand template, which means no more adjustments to the blade when you switch from freehand to using a shape template.

Keep Up To Date on New Craft Storage & Supplies

2011-01-15T20:23:00.009Z

Follow my blog and keep up to date with all new craft storage & supplies

Making your own scrapbooks or just adding pages to another, here you will find pages and kits for any project, various colours and themes. For more information about scrapbooking and how to start click here. Use embellishments & stickers, to enhance your scrapbooks , peel offs, quotes & sayings and lots more...

Keep your craft worktops tidy by keeping them well organised with our craft storage totes and craft boxes. Our craft storage category contains a selection of craft storage totes and craft storage boxes that have been ingeniously designed to maximise space and offer an excellent solution for your all craft storage needs Craft solutions from Personal Impressions, Craft Mates, Impex, Dovecraft & Tidy Crafts

Start your new craft hobby with some basic tools and add extras as you need them. The tools you will need can depend on what kind of craft you plan to make. Our large selection of jewellery & craft tools are perfect for the beginner crafter or the advanced

Craft & Jewellery Tools from Dovecraft, Impex Tidy Crafts that no good crafter should be without.

Ideal for Jewellery Making, Card Making, Scrapbooking & lots more

Clearance Sale - End of Lines

2011-01-15T16:34:00.007Z

Been busy at Magic Lady Crafts today clearing out the stock room to make room for all the new Craft Storage & Craft Supplies coming soon. Check out the bargains by following the link and get yourself a Craft bargain.

Dont forget this months special offer of 25% of Fiskars ShapeBoss & ScrapBosss offer ends 21.01.11

ARTBIN Bead n Bellishement Solutions Cabinet

2011-01-14T14:05:00.005Z

Great for organizing and storing any number of supplies. Place all your craft embellishment in one handy storage solution with the ArtBin Bead'n Bellishment Cabinet. Complete with 15 translucent storage pots with screw caps and 2 translucent storage boxes. Each storage box has 6 to 18 compartments with 12 removable dividers. Removable front panel for convenient access. Buy mor than one and they stack together

Storage Pot external dimensions
3" x 1" 7/16
76 x 37 mm

Storage Box external dimensions
10" 5/8 x 7" x 1" 5/8
27 x 17.8 x 4.2 cm

Solutions Cabinet external dimensions
11" 3/8 x 8" x 11"
28.9 x 20.3 x 27.9 cm

Black Caroursel Craft Storage Desk Tidy

2011-01-13T22:04:00.004Z

Description: Tidy up your craft space with New Phase Organisers. No more hassle of looking for your craft supplies. Beads, bobbins, glitter, powders, sequins, eyelets, snaps and more, are right where you can see them in these wonderful clear containers! Made of sturdy plastic, these containers will hold up to years of crafting! Carousel 12 Slot Black- 12 clear, polypropylene, round containers (2.5" diameter and 7/8" deep) fit easily into slots around a circular plastic base. Base has a deep triangular center basin for holding taller items. Rivets included for stacking more than one together.

This Weeks Special Offers - 25% of Fiskars

2011-01-13T19:42:00.006Z

Receive 25% of either of this Fiskars ScrapBoss & ShapeBoss

Was £25.99 now only £19.50

HURRY OFFER FOR 7 DAYS ONLY ENDS 21.01.11

How To Latch Hook

2010-03-07T21:39:00.005Z

Found this great videos on You Tube thought they are great tutorial for those who havn't latch hooked before.

Online Craft Projects & Tutorials

2010-03-07T15:10:00.003Z

Here is a list of great tutorials and craft links would take far to long to type them all out so have put a small description under each link to give you some idea of what they are.If you have any tutorials or projects that you would like to showcase please feel free to Email Me! and I will add them to the list

A - Z of Craft Tutorials and Projects
Beading, Card Making, Craft Tips, Crochet, Cross Stitch, Embellishments, Embroidery, Floral Crafts, Holiday Crafts, Kids Crafts, Knitting, Needlepoint, Painting, Projects, Quilting, Rubber, Stamping, Scrapbooking, Sewing, Soap Making.

About Dot Com Family Crafts.
How to Decoupage Basic Techniques, Craft Tutorials and projects

Peel Offs
1001 ideas and techniques and projects for using peel offs

Craft Directory

2010-03-07T14:44:00.007Z

There are so many different craft techniques and terminologies and in my working day I get ask so often what something means so have decided to create a craft dictionary to help crafter to keep up with the laters sayings.

I have a link for each letter so just click on the specific letter of the Craft Directionary to find what you are looking for.

If you have any that I have missed please Email Me! and I will add them to the lis

A B C D E F G H

I J K L M N O P

Q R S T U V W X

Y Z

---------------------------------------------------------------

A

Acid-free: Means the product has a pH of 7 or higher. Acid is a chemical used to make paper. This makes the paper break down easily. The higher the pH in the paper, the more durable the paper is. If the paper you are using contains acid, it can discolor, damage, and deteriorate your photos

Acetate: Many people use the term “acetate film” to generically refer to plastic film. However, acetate film is really a specific type of plastic material called cellulose acetate.It is made of a polymer that is made from wood-pulp and or cotton fibers. Cellulose Acetate comes in 2 derivatives, Di-Acetate and Tri-Acetate. Grafix Plastics is one of the largest stocking converters of Cellulose Di-Acetate in North America. We also stock Tri-Acetate but in a lesser variety or quantity as Di-Acetate.

Acetate film is produced by 2 mechanical methods. Solvent Casting or Forced Extrusion. Solvent cast or Cast Acetate is the type of acetate we stock at Grafix Plastics, because of its superior clarity and surface qualityBecause Acetate is made from wood-pulp, it has certain attributes that are sometimes desirable and sometimes something you want to avoid.... depending on your application.

Adhesive: Glues or tapes that hold items together. Adhesives come in different forms, including, tabs, glue sticks, double stick tape, and glue dots. Some adhesives are removable to allow you to reposition them.

Archival quality: This term is used to describe the quality of the paper or material. This insures the product you are using will not discolor or disintegrate over time.

B

Buffering: This process is used in adding calcium carbonate to neutralize acids. Paper that has been buffered contains alkaline filler. This will protect the paper from absorbing acids in the future.

C

Cropping: To crop a photo, means to cut out the elements you do not wish to display. This will take away any distractions from your subject. There are several ways to crop your photos. The most common way is to use a straight edge. This can be achieved with a paper cutter or scissors.

D

Die Cuts: Die cuts are paper cut outs used to enhance your scrapbook pages. They come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. You can purchase die cuts in a craft store or other retail stores. You can customize your own die cuts using a die cut machine.

E

Emboss: A technique used to create a raised image on paper. Heat and powder embossing are the two most popular ways to emboss.

F

G

Gauge:
The word gauge refers to a scale or standard of measurement and in the sense implied here refers to the measurement of the thickness or diameter of a wire. It is also used as a standard of quality, capacity or dimension. The term wire gauge can refer to one of two things, it can refer to the device used in measuring the width and diameters of wires or it can refer to a standard system defining wire sizes.

The gauge to measure wire sizes generally consists of a round disc or an elongated plate with slots cut into its periphery to accommodate wires of different sizes. Gauges do not specify just the width of a wire in certain cases they determine the electric carrying capacity of the wire as well.

H

I

Inking: This is a technique to use to create a different type of image on your scrapbook pages. Inking can also give an antique or weathered look to your page.

J

Journaling: This can be used to document your feelings, memories, or tell a story about the photo you are displaying. It can be as simple as writing the names and dates of the event in your scrapbook.

K

L

Lignin-free: Paper that is lignin-free will not disintegrate or become brittle over time. You should use paper that is acid-free and lignin-free in your scrapbook.

M

Mat: To frame a photo with paper so there is a layer between the photo and the background. Cardstock is used in this process. You can use printed or plain background paper. Use a color that stands out in your photo.

Mylar: Mylar is a protective covering to use for your scrapbook photos.

N

O

P

Page Protector: A page protector is a plastic cover to insert your pages into. This can be removed to design your scrapbook page and replaced once it is done.

pH: pH is the amount of acid your paper contains. The pH in scrapbook paper should be at least 7. The higher the number is the lower the acid amount.

Photo safe: This label is used on products that are safe for scrapbooks. This term is used to indicate acid-free and lignin-free products.

PVC free: PVC stands for Polyvinyl chloride, a plastic used in sheet protectors. Scrapbooking products should be PVC free.

Q

R

S

Sandy Art: uses coloured sand applied on an adhesive base to make gorgeous greetings cards.

T

Templates: Templates come in acrylic or plastic sheets with cut out shapes. They can be used to crop photos or too cut your cardstock into the shape you desire.

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

All About Magic Lady

2010-03-07T11:26:00.000Z

I have been a keen crafter for many years, I always loved art as a child and was always drawing or colouring and making things out of sticky back plastic and card as you do when you are a child. I did the usual crafts as I grew up, knitting, sewing, dress making, painting but by far my favourite was cross stitch and now my house is full of cross stitch pictures

I have stiched samplers for all my grandchildren and have done many cards and samplers for friends and relatives for their special occasions.

Unfortunalty I do not have a lot of time these day to do my cross stitch but am at the moment stitching a sampler for the next addition to our family due in July

I started the selling on craft supplies on good old Ebay as a way to pay for my hobby but it became so succesful that three years ago I decided to get adventurous and start my own craft web site.

There are so many different crafts I thought it would be nice to be able to find them all in one place rather than have to search through lots of sites.

At first I could not make up my mind what to retail. In the end I decided not to retail kits but would supply accessories and storage for differnet crafts supplying Beads & Findings * Craft Tools * Craft Storage * Pens,Inks & Chalks and lots of other craft supplies to many to mention so please pop in and have a look.

The site has gone from strength to strength and in the last year and we have opened our new website for kids Magic Lady Kids full of lots of craft ideas for children Baby Care * Kids Footwear * Kids Watches & Clocks * Educational Toys & Games * Fancy Dress & in the very near future we are hoping to include Travel Systems, Prams, Strollers & Buggies section.

When I get time I will make a special page for photos on here and will add some pictures of the cross stitch kits I have done.

You might just be starting crafting and not really sure how to do the craft correctly and would like some advice and just cant find any I will try and help you as much as I can by sourcing tutorials etc for you and if you have any projects or ideas of your own that you would like to showcase please feel free to contact me. All projects are most welcome

I will be trying to add to this blog daily time willing and am hoping to add some tutorial when I get time to source them. Again anyone who has tutorials and would like to add them to the blog please feel free to contact me

Craft Mates Ezy Stack Ribbon Rack Organizer

2010-03-07T10:35:00.009Z

Anyone who works with ribbons knows that they can be a nightmare to keep tidy now with the new Craft Mates Ezy-Stack Ribbon Rack organizer your troubles are over. This perfect organizer is a durable plastic rack and has 17 removable compartment dividers. With the easy removable dividers you can customise your rack to whatever width your ribbon spool is. Just thread ribbon through the lop and let dangle. Pull out what you need when you need and keep the rest of the spool clean and organized. There are clips on each side that lock the lids down securely. You can stack racks ro easy access. Ribbon Rack measures 101/4 x 41/4x31/2

Making your own cards

2010-03-01T13:37:00.016Z

Found these brilliant tutorials for making your own cards using plain and apeture cards inks and marker pens stickers stamps and lots more have a look on Magic Lady Crafts for all your craft supplies

*********

Cute saying for craft projects and cards

2010-02-22T23:03:00.009Z

People often ask me if they can use the sayings they find on the web for projects they sell. Well after a bit of reasearch it seems that unless it is trademarked (TM) or serviced marked (SM) no one can own a saying. I have also checked out a few craft books and they often stat that its fine to use sayings and patterns for personal use and craft fairs. So using sayings etc is totaly ok as long as your not comercial manufacturing the product or mas producing. So all I can say to that is go on and have some craft fun!!!

I have added a few links below this to a few sites that I have found who have sayings that can be used on cards or samplers or were ever you might want to put the saying.

Craft Sayings
Poems, Quotes & Sayings
Friendship, Family, Baby & Home Sayings

I found this one on a message board but I am sure they wont mind me putting it on here.

Girls are Giggles in a Frilly Skirt
Boys are Noise covered in Dirt

mums are love forever there
dads are fun without a care

mums are smiles, destined to care
dads are cuddles, big soft bears!

please feel free to send me your links and I will add them.

Craft Knives & Their Uses

2010-01-02T19:20:00.024Z

Need a craft knife but not sure which one have a read these reviews and it might help you decide.

Dovecraft - Impex Swivel Knife

This is a precision craft knife with a blade which rotates through 360 degrees for intricate cutting of curves, circles and designs in lightweight materials such as paper, acetate, balsa, stencils and so on.

DAFA Design Knive & 20 spare blades

This knife by Dafa is a brilliant design knife great for precision cutting and trimming of paper, plastic, balsa, thin metal, cloth, film and acetate.

Impex Art & Craft Knife + 10 extra blades

A great craft knife for all sorts of crafts. Has a surgical steel blade. Knife blade is thinner & narrower for sharper angles.

Impex Arts/Hobby Knife Set & Blades

The Art & Hobby knife set has six different surgical blades. This knife has a surgical steel replaceable blade. Great for model making, trimming, scoring, carving etc. Ideal for fine work, & precision cutting on card or paper. The round aluminium handle makes it easier to get a smooth cut on curved shapes

If you have got a craft knife reveiw please feel free to add it.

Free Embroidery Designs

2010-01-02T11:42:00.007Z

If you enjoy embroidery then click the link for FREE Embroidery Designs,
Designs include floral, ornament, baby, corner, border

Glue Dots Magic Motifs - Sale!!!

2010-01-01T13:39:00.002Z

If you haven’t use magic motifs before then you are in for a real treat. With lots of lovely designs to choose from you’ll be spoilt for choice. Simply peel of the design you require add glitter and hey presto you’ve created a master piece
These images are formed in adhesive to create magnificent, detailed designs. They can be used on card,scrapbooking, decorative glassware, paper, wood and much more. Using techniques such as foil, flock, micro beads, glitter and and you cam create amazing effects. There are easy to follow and clear instructions for use on the back

New Facebook Page

2009-12-31T15:27:00.006Z

Magic Lady Crafts has opened a new facebook page to keep up to date can all our old fans click here to rejoin as over the next couple of weeks we will be closing the old page

Click on Magic Lady Logo to find our Facebook Fan Page

Craft & Bead Storage Solutions

2009-12-31T14:34:00.005Z

Crafting hobbies can be very expensive and a important part of your life. I am sure you dont want to spend all that money on craft items just to lose them because you havn't stored them properly.

I know that it can be really hard work to organize your work area and keep it organized but once you have done it, its will be worth it. There is nothing more frustrating than going to start a new project and having to spend precious crafting time looking for the items for that project

Click here for some craft storage solutions & ideas. I sure there you will be able to find something to suit all craft needs. If you cant then please Contact me and I will aim to find it for you.

Below are just a couple of examples of the craft storage we do. To see more please visit our web site

Scissor Sale @ Magic Lady Crafts

2009-12-30T19:30:00.005Z

Save up to 25% on craft scissors and crafts knives at Magic Lady Crafts.
Type in this code at checkout CB5698

For Example

Set of 5 craft scissors ~~£4.99~~ with discount £3.74

Set of 8 Craft Paper Edging Scissors ~~£5.99~~ with discount £4.49

2009-12-27T14:42:00.001Z

Happy New Year to all my customers at Magic Lady Kids & Magic Lady Crafts hope you all have a good and prosperous 2010

Magic Lady Crafts: Quilling Tutorial

2009-09-26T12:20:00.000+01:00

Magic Lady Crafts: Quilling Tutorial

Christmas Projects

2009-09-06T19:44:00.009+01:00

Started planning for Christmas yet here are a few craft projects I found on You Tube to get you started

Make Christmas tree Decorations with this easy to follow video

Make a pop out christmas card with this easy to follow video

Visit our websites for all your Christmas gifts and craft supplies

Quilling Tutorial

2009-09-05T18:16:00.006+01:00

Found this tutorial on the craftbits website thought I would share If you follow the link you can make your own card and find other quilling projects

Tight Coil :

Slip the end of the quilling paper strip into the slotted tool just enough to catch the paper and roll the paper around the tool, being sure to keep the paper in alignment as you roll. Using a toothpick, place a small dab of glue at the end of the strip, glue to the roll, and hold until set. Remove the tool.

Teardrop:

Roll a strip into a tight coil; remove the tool and allow the roll to uncoil to the desired size. Glue the loose end to the coil. Place the coil between your index finger and thumb with the glued end pointing toward your hand. Pinch the glued end into a point, allowing the opposite side to remain round.Slip the end of the quilling paper strip into the slotted tool just enough to catch the paper and roll the paper around the tool, being sure to keep the paper in alignment as you roll. Using a toothpick, place a small dab of glue at the end of the strip, glue to the roll, and hold until set. Remove the tool.

Marquise : Make teardrop, then flip the coil and pinch the opposite end into a point leaving the paper round and loose in the center.

V-Scroll : Fold your strip of paper in half. Loosely roll each end outward to form a “V” shape. Do not glue.

Beading Projects and Tutorials

2009-08-24T14:59:00.000+01:00

This section has Bead projects and tutorials please add any you may have to this section.

This is a great project also on this page are some great links to other bead projects and tutorials.

Beading Project: Embellished Jeans Jacket Pocket by Amy Clarke Moore and Robin Atkins, From Their Book Beaded Embellishment, Published by Interweave Press

Monday May 26, 2008

For all your craft supplies visit Magic Lady Supplies

Working With Chalks

2009-08-24T14:58:00.002+01:00

Working with Chalks couldn't be easier

Using chalks is a great and cheap way to create colour and character to your scrapbooks, cards, and paper projects. Using different shades of chalks you can add highlights and shadings ot paper, diecuts, stamping, cardstock and papers. Its usually best to use chalks that are labeled acid-free as they are usually specifically made for scrapbooking and card designing

If you are working on a budget you should be able to find many of the tools needed for working with chalks in your own home, such as cotton balls, Q-tips, and make up applicators. When using Q-tips make swivel the swab to make sure the cotton is tight and you don't get any wisps, which could make you put the colour where you don't want it. The most simplest of tools is a tampon it has a firmness and width for all-over colour, and you can just cut of the bit you have used and start with a with a fresh colour.

Before starting your project it is always best to practice on scraps of paper to get the kind of effect you want to achieve. Always start with the lightest colour and layer your darker colours on top applying shading where appropriate. When chalking diecuts or embellishments take extra care when gluing as the chalk will stick to the glue.

Ways of using chalks could be: stenciling, creating the right colour on photo mats or embellishment. You could even use chalk to tint ribbons or fibres to match your project. Another great idea is a chalk rubbing of an embossed diecut of any object of your choice.

To fix any chalking errors you will need a chalk eraser, you can always add chalk on the spot you have erased but fix errors quickly as chalks set quicker than you realise.

You shouldn't need to set chalk as the pigments in the chalk will set in the paper within several hours of application so setting shouldn't be necessary is the layout is put in a protective sleeve.

If you use a light hand to apply your chalk it shouldn't get everywhere, and you should be able to wipe away any loose chalk with a cotton ball or by turning your project face down and rubbing gently. You could also use an acid free spray fixative to ensure the chalk doesn't smear.

Ideas for using Peel Offs

2009-08-24T14:17:00.002+01:00

Peel offs are readily available and are great for enhancing your cards and scrapbooks.. Peel offs have improved over the years and now come in many colours, holographic effect, transparent effect, velvet effect, double embossed, matt finish, gloss finish, glitter effect, 3d Medallion style and so on. Peel off stickers cover every occasion, sentiment, design, season, event and greeting imaginable.

Here are just a few ways of using peel offs

The most obvious way to use the stickers is to just peel the design of your choice and to apply it straight onto the paper or card of your choice. But this does produce a rather flat designs.

You can make great embellishments with peel offs. Just apply your choice of peel of onto a piece of card then cut out the design leaving a small border round the edge. You can now use this as an embellishment by using a foam pad to create a 3D effect. You could try this using vellum making butterflies, flowers and dragonflies. Using gel pens or maker pens can creates a great effect,

Using chalks is great for creating backgrounds, try practicing with a simple design first. Place the peel off on a piece of white card. Using a cotton wool ball pick up some crafters chalk and apply over the peel of in a dabbing motion allowing the chalk to go over the edges of the design, keep repeating this process over the card to create your background design. When finished to stop the chalk rubbing of spray with hairspray or a fixative.

Using peel offs acetate can give a great stained glass effect. Place the peel off onto the acetate and colour with the glass paints. The colored acetate can be trimmed and used in lots of ways. This idea works will with aperture cards, using the aperture as a frame for the stained glass design.

Put you peel off in place then using PVA glue you can colour with glitter , fine coloured sand or accent beads. Just add the glue then sprinkle any of above over the peel off.

For all your craft supplies visit Magic Lady Crafts

Making a wire embellishment for your cards

2009-08-24T14:15:00.005+01:00

Adding a wire embellishment to your cards can give it that bit of sparkle just follow the easy instructions below to find out how to do:

You will need the following items:

Thin wire
Wire cutter/old scissors
Card in the making
Adhesive
Scrap paper
Pencil

First you need to decide what you want to make, you can create flowers, shapes, words or just lines to create a dimension across your card.

If you want to create words or shapes you will need to draw a description on a scrap of paper, try to keep your corners rounded as this makes it easier to shape the wire. Now bend the wire around your picture leaving wire on the reel until you have got the shape you require. When you have achieved the shape you require cut the wire from the reel leaving a little left over at the ends to use for securing to the card.

To apply the wire to the card you can wrap the left over ends with a piece of paper and use this section to stick to the card. Or you could also use a small dot of glue. You could also secure with a bow using glue again to secure it to the card.

2009-08-24T14:12:00.003+01:00

Paper Pizazz Template from HOTP embellishments make great scrapbook page accents & card focals hot off the press have created this template which makes it easy for you to create your own unique cards! You can make these from cardstock, patterned paper, vellum, glimmer or suede paper, then ink them, chalk them or use marker pens the creative possibilities are endless.

Paper crafters love templates because they can achieve such great results with them.

They are so easy to use just lay your template on your paper or card making sure you are working on a flat surface. You can trace in two ways if you want to see a nice edge to your shape then trace with a coloured pen or a metallic marker pen. When you have finished tracing the shapes you require remove the template and cut out the shapes.

Envelope & Tags Templates are great for making pockets and labels for your scrapbooks and look really great when cut from coordinating paper or card. A nice effect is to trace with a metallic then cut out the shape outside the metallic line to enhance the edge of the envelope or tag.

Nested Template This easy-to-use template is so versatile! Use it to make patterned paper medallions, then mat and stack and layer them on a card front or Scrapbook page for a simple, elegant design.

Window Template This template gives you 12 shapes, including heart, oval, star and half-oval windows! You can either make your own cards or just use the templates as frames for your scrapbook photos, using the same technique as you did with the tags and envelopes to enhance the shapes

For more templates at a great price of £3.99 click here

Usefull tips for Decoupage

2009-08-24T14:10:00.000+01:00

Use a craft knfe, not scissors as it is a lot quicker and more accurate.

Practice under cutting, a technigque were the craft knie is held at a ange and used to cut under the paper. This will create an inclined chamfer and hide any harsh white edges.

However if the pirce your cut out has really white edges, colour it using a soft pointed pencil or water coloured pens to disguise it.

Number all the pieces you cut out and using your shaping tool and shaping mat only shape the final layer of your picture.

Apply silicone glue like you would apply icing o a cake. hold tube of gule 1mm above print, squeeze and gently pull away to required height. Allow silicone glue to dry between layers. Try not to show any silicone on your finished work

To prevent glue solidifying in nozzle, shape and insert matchstick or similar.

Try only to use decoupage silicone glue, as some bathroom sealant can produce oily blobs all over your picture.

When your craft knife starts pulling or ripping the paper your cutting it is time to change the blade.

Varnish the top visual layer generously, after you have completed your picture. Make sure each piece is well supported with glue, otherwise the paper may curl.

Use a fine horse hair brush when applying coats of varnish to avoid bubbling. Clean brush in thinners or nail polish remover. immediately after use

Do not leave the top off the varnish or it wil thicken. However if this does happen use thinners to restore consitency.

Never hang your completed picture in direct sunlight as over the years the colours will fade and the varnish will start to crack.

For all your crafts supplies visit Magic Lady Crafts

My Star Sign - Taurus

2009-08-24T14:08:00.001+01:00

Taurus

Symbol: Bull

Date: April 21 to May 21

Good Characteristics: Patient and reliable, Warmhearted and loving, Persistent and determined
Placid and security loving

Bad Characteristics: Jealous and possessive, Resentful and inflexible, Self-indulgent and greedy

Likes: Stability, Looking good, Natural item, time to self, comforts & pleasures

Dislikes: Disruption, being pushed, being rushed, being indoors

Planet: Venus

Colour: Pink

Alternative Colours: Sapphire, Garnet Agate, and Diamond

Birthstone: Emerald

Element: Earth

Laser Crystal Keyrings

Wikepedia the free Encyclopidia -Taurus

Card Making Tutorial

2009-08-24T14:03:00.001+01:00

Use good quality glue or double sided sticky tape

Use sticky pads to add layers

To fray handmade papers cut to size first. Wet edges of the paper with water and leave for a min. Hold paper near to the edge and with your thumb and index finger very carefully tease the edge fibres avey using the thumb and index finger of the other hand. Lay flat to dry. When dry the paper will look slightly crinkled but when stuck on card will lay flat.

To create a great and fantastic card use different types of decorative scissors

When starting out it can be a minefield of what do I buy first so I have stated a few basics that are needed in any card makers craft box.

You can never have to many scissors. A good place to start is a pair of kitchen scissors for general cutting. A small fine precision pair of scissors is best for more detailed work.

A guilotine is a must if for cutting those straight lines. These are widely available and are really light weight.

Ideal for creating your own card blanks and acheiving clean sharp folded creases is a score boards and bone foleder. You can also create envelopes with these boards.

A tacky or pva glue , foam pads or tape and double sided tap e are a must for any card crafter. Tweezers are perfect for using peel offs , stickers and small embellishments.

A pencil and a ruler for measuring and drawing templates.

A cutting mat is ideal for protectin your work surface a self healing mat is best as it will last for ages. There are many differnt types of craft knives available but which ever one you choose make sure you can change the blades and it will last you a long time.

For al your craft supplies please visit Magic Lady Crafts

How to use Plastic Canvas

2009-08-24T12:59:00.005+01:00

What is Plastic canvas?
Plastic Canvas is a fantastic idea. By stitching yarn into patterns on the plastic canvas sheets, and then whipstitching the sheets together, you can make warm, colourful, and practical objects: from plantpots to jewellery boxes, drinks coasters to mobile phone holders.

Plastic canvas has rapidly grown into a well-known and much-loved form of needlecrafting. It's a simple technique that lends itself perfectly for introducing pre-teens and beginners to the joy of creating something with their hands and imagination. This often leads to the desire to learn other crafts, such as embroidery, crochet, and so forth.

A lifetime of stitching tantalizing home decor and personalized accessories are yours for the making, not only for yourself, but for friends and family. Once you pick up a needle and a piece of plastic canvas , it will soon become a constant companion.

Tip: Always bring needle up through the canvas at odd numbers and take it back down through the canvas at the even numbers.

Basic Stitches

How to count or identify stitches:

Each stitch is made over the plastic where the lines of plastic cross each other (over the +). When you are counting the stitches in our patterns, count each line of plastic as one stitch except for the first outside plastic line.

How to Stitch:

To make a stitch, bring your needle up through the hole to the left and bottom of the +.
Then send your needle back down through the hole to the right and top of the +.

How to Stitch Cont.

Continue stitches in this manner, working from left to right until you reach the end of your row.
Next, move down to the next row and make your stitches in the same direction, only this time, stitch your row from right to left.

To Start Working a Color:

To start, bring your needle and thread up through the first hole until there is only about 1/2" of thread left under the plastic canvas. Hold that "tail" of thread under the canvas in the direction that you will be stitching. As you stitch the first few stitches, make sure to catch the "tail" of thread in the underside stitches.

To End Working a Color:

To finish with a color or piece of thread simply flip your canvas over to see the wrong side of the project and send your needle under several underside stitches. Cut yarn off.

Working with the Patterns:
To follow the patterns, stitch the object first, then stitch the background color last.

Count the stitches on the pattern to find out where your start location should be. Then count on the plastic canvas to find you start location.

Our patterns show the stitches in the actual colors for all objects. Fill in all background with the color shown on the outline stitches of the pattern.

Click Here for some great plastic canvas projects

For all your craft supplies visit Magic Lady Crafts

Card Conversion Chart

2009-08-24T12:57:00.000+01:00

Having trouble working out the size you need or your cards well look no furthur here is a conversion chart, for all sized cards I could think of. If you have any I have missed please feel free to add them.

Name	mm	cm	Inches
A4	210 x 297	21 x 29.7	8.3 x 11.7
A5	148 x 210	14.8 x 21	5.8 x 8.3
A6	105 x 148	105 x 14.8	4.1 x 5.8
A7	74 x 105	7.4 x 10.5	2.9 x 4.1

C4	229 x 324	22.9 x 32.4	9.0 x 12.8
C5	162 x 229	16.2 x 22.9	6.4 x 9.0
C6	114 x 162	11.4 x 16.2	4.5 x 6.4
C7	81 x 114	8.1 x 11.4	3.2 x 4.5

The history & definition of a scrapbook

2009-08-24T12:50:00.009+01:00

The definition of a scrapbook: A blank book for pasting in scraps, cuttings etc. Doesn’t sound very imaginative does it. But believe me once you start Scrapbooking your imagination just runs wild.

Scrapbooks can be used for many things but mostly it’s a way of preserving great memories. But as in years gone by we just stuck photos in a book Scrapbooking has become more imaginative with 3D embellishments fancy stickers and letters bringing your scrapbook to life.

When you look at a photo it is much more than just a photo, it’s a memory of the day and the sounds and smells associated with that moment. There are many ways of holding that moment but the most personal is journaling.

Journaling is a way of keeping a record of all those important details of the event and remembering the dates. Have you ever looked back at your photos and just cant remember the date when the event took place.

Scrapbooking and journaling is about making your own creation, by creating your own style for that particular event or photos. There are so many options open to scrap bookers and carmakers. Once we had to use any materials we found around the house but now there is so much on offer to buy from stickers, rubber stamps, decorative papers, to ribbons, bows, tags, I could go on forever.

As you are making your scrapbooks and adding your photos don’t forget you want these memories to last forever so make sure that all the materials you use are acid and lignin free. Most product will state this but its always best to check. As acid naturally occurs in the air and on your hands so covering your photos with an acid free covering will make you masterpieces last longer and prevent them from going yellow and brittle. Using an acid free photo album and page protectors are also advisable.

Here are a few essential supplies that a scrap booker should have in the craft box

Adhesives, photo squares, glue pens, glue sticks, removable dots, making sure all are photo safe
Acid free paper and cardstock
Acid free pens for journaling
Scissors and craft knives
Paper trimmer

You can create your scrapbooks with just these items but to be really creative you could add the following to your craft box

Decorative letters and numbers
Eyelets and brads
Fibers thread and ribbon
Buttons and charms
Embellishments and stickers
Rubber stamps
Decorative scissors

For all your craft supplies visit Magic Lady Crafts

Get the best out of your craft scissors & knives

2009-08-24T12:46:00.004+01:00

Paper edgers or patterned scissors have special blades to cut decorative patterns. Try to cut as cleanly as you can using the whole blade.

You can use general scissors for cutting paper, care and other materials, but to make your cards look professional its alway a good idea to have other pairs. For example you would need a fine pointed pair to cut around intricate outlines or to get into tight corners. If you use a lot of fabric its worth buying some dressmaking scissors as these leave a lovely crisp edge to the fabric. But remeber not to use them for paper as this will blunt them.

For a selection of craft scissors & knives visit Magic Lady Crafts

How to use craft punches

2009-08-24T12:43:00.001+01:00

A punch is a tool that has a die cut shape and a metal cutter or press inside a slot where you place the card or paper. The punch allows you to emboss or creat the same shape time and time again. There are hundreds of different sizes and designs of punches. Some are so big they have to be used on a work bench but there are loads that are hand held

Punches are capable of cutting a wide range of papers or cards but obviously there are limits. Always experement first as some handmade papers are not suitable for cutting punches but might be suitable for an embossing punch. You can use light card in most punches although if you are using a punch that has a fine detail you should only use paper up to 130g in weight.

If you punch isn't cutting cleanly or has become hard to press, don't throw it away it probably just needs a bit of maintenance. To improve the cutting edge simply punch into a folded folded sheet of kitchen foil a few times to sharpen it up. If the punch is sticking

For all your craft supplies visit Magic Lady Crafts

Do you Squidoo?

2009-08-24T12:31:00.002+01:00

Hi gone Squidoo mad this week I would even go as far to say its become an addiction,

I have written 4 articles in as many days I just cant get enough of it.

Have wrote an article about craft storage, craft jewellery, latch hook and got lots more to write about.

I find it a brilliant way of letting lots of people know about my website, I have also made many friends from Squidoo as there are thousands of articles on there.

Here are some links to my squidoo articles hope you like them:
Making Jewellery - Getting Started|Craft Supplies for all Ages|How to Latch Hook|Craft & Bead Storage Solutions

News Update

2009-05-23T11:43:00.004+01:00

Hi I all been so busy lately havnt had time to update my blog.

Beggining of May went on holiday and ended up buying a new car as the engine blew up on ours on the way to Cornwall. Not a good way to start a holiday. So £1400 lighter we started our holiday. Weather wasnt brilliant but we still managed to have a great time and caught up with some old mates.

Came home and spent the next week playing catch up as hadnt shut the website or Ebay shop down so had loads of orders and emails to catch up on. Also had to still go out and do the day job.

Been trying to slim as well be following Slimming World its great can eat anything you want in moderation. Was doing ok till Thurs then ended up eating box of chocolate swiss rolls. Dont think they meant that when they say you can eat anything and as much as you want. LOL never mind always next week. I really need to loose at lease 2stone tho. I will stay positive and get there one day.

Just ordered a load of new stock for Magic Lady Crafts website so keep an eye open hopefully will get to list them over the next couple of days.

Gotta run now loads to do busy busy will try and find some new tutorials to post for all you budding crafters. If any one has one they want to post then please contact me.

Links: Free Patterns, Craft Projects, Wedding Ideas

2009-04-17T18:42:00.013+01:00

Here are some great links to free pattern sites and craft projects. I add to this often if you have any to add please email me magicladycrafts@tiscali.co.uk the link and I will add it for you.

Free Embroidery Designs

Follow this link and find some great craft projects with step by step videos to watch

Click here for all your craft supplies

Free Plastic Canvas Patterns

Free Plastic Canvas Canvas Projects & Tutorials

Crafts, cake baking, weddings, home decorating and lots more

Wedding Themes, favours, gifts

Tutorials and Projects

2009-04-17T18:22:00.005+01:00

Follow the link below and find some great craft projects & tutorials with step by step videos to watch
Online Craft Tutorials and Projects

When you have found a project to do follow the link below to find your one stop shop for craft supplies. You will find all craft needs for all ages just follow the link

Click here for all your craft supplies

A Brief History of Rug Making (latch hooking)

2009-04-16T20:42:00.004+01:00

The craft of latch hooking or as it was first known rug hooking is ages old and started in the United States in the mid 1800’s although remnants of hooked work can be braced back to the Viking and Egyptian civilizations.

Like many crafts it was started out of sheer necessity and when the colonists reach North America they brought with them many skills including the making of hooked covers for their beds and rugs for their floors. The first rugs were made out of any scrap material that could be found, including worn clothing and old discarded wool blankets. The base of the rug was made from the burlap sacks that the livestock feed came in.

Later, people began selling hand-hooked rugs, and cottage industries eventually sprang up across the continent. By the 1940’s, rug hooking had become a well-established hobby in the United States and Canada. Hand-hooked rugs can be found in art galleries and museums in throughout the world.

Latch hooking is what most people think of when someone mentions rug hooking, but it is very different than the other methods of making rugs. Latch Hooking is a newer style of rug making than traditionally hooked rugs. It uses pre-cut yarn strips, one strip per knot, and forms an open, knotted pile on the surface of the rug. The backing material weave is typically larger than that of Traditional or Punch hooked backing material.

Below is a video I found on You Tube with a Latch Hook Tutorial

Enhance your Cards with Magic Motifs

2009-04-15T18:48:00.004+01:00

If you haven't used Magic Motifs before then you are in for a real treat. With lots of lovely designs to choose from you will be spoilt for choice.

Simply peel of the desing you require and add glitter, Pens or Chalks and hey presto you have created a master piece.

These images are formed in adhesive to create magnificent, detailed designs. They can be used on card, paper, glassware, wood and much more. Great for enhancing scrapbooks.

Using techniques such as foil, flock, micro beads, glitter and sand you can create amazing effects. There are easy to follow and clear instructions on the back of the packets.

There are 28 themed designs with delightful images for every occasions. Continue through Magic Lady Crafts to see the selection

Wedding Ring Finger

2009-04-14T15:55:00.003+01:00

Ever wonder why we wear a wedding band on our 4th or ring finger? There’s a few explanations as to why but here’s one that I found particularly cute.

Place your hands, palms facing each other, with your middle fingers bent and together and your remaining finger tips toughing each other as in the video below

Your thumbs represent your parents.
Your second or index fingers represent your siblings.
Your middle fingers represent your Self.
Your fourth or ring fingers represent your life partner.
Your last or little fingers represent your children.

With your hands together just like in the image, try and separate your thumbs.

Your thumbs will open because your parents are not destined to live with you all your life and will have to leave you sooner or later.

Place your thumbs back together and try and separate just your index fingers.

Your index fingers, representing your siblings, will separate because your brothers and sisters will grow to have their own family and will need to lead separate lives.

Place your index fingers back together and try and separate your little fingers representing your children. They too will separate because your children will grow, get married and settle down with their own families someday.

Place your little fingers back together and try and separate just your ring fingers.

You can’t do it can you? Your ring fingers represent husband and wife, life partners that are to stay together through thick and thin.

Clean up your workshops with our craft storage solutions

2009-04-13T17:46:00.011+01:00

Craft Storage

As a crafter you probably have bits and pieces all over your workshop. If you are really lucky the kids would have left home and you have a room to store all your craft items. If you are not so lucky and have to hide it all in a cupboard but want all your items to hand storage organisers are essential

There are many craft storage solutions. Scrappers and Card Makers can buy folders and boxes to keep scrapbooking papers, embellishments and cards in so they don’t get ripped or screwed up. Jewellery makers can buy bead towers and containers with many sections for the beads. If you are a knitter you would need storage to keep all your wool, pattern, and needles.

A lot of craft storage these days is designed to be mobile as crafting has become a social event and there are lots of craft clubs all over the country. Mobile storage is also helpful if you are a professional and attend a lot of fairs.

Craft storage can be very expensive if not approached in the correct way especially if you have a lot to store. Before going out and buying loads of craft boxes that you are never going to use.

Check these few things first :

1. Are the craft items you are storing all the same size or lots of different sizes.
2. Have you got a lot of space or do you need to use as little space as possible.
3. Organise your craft so the items you use regularly are easy to access

Clear organisers are great because you can always see the contents without opening the box but if they are not clear always remember to label there is nothing more infuriating than having to keep opening storage boxes to find that one item

Below I have listed a few that might be useful to you and don’t take up to much space on your desk top and can also be mobile

Deluxe Carousel Organiser

* Holds 60 individual clear polypropylene cups with tethered lids

* Five layers high, mounted on a lazy susan turntable
* Only a 10″ footprint on your craft table
* Excellent for beaders, scrapbookers, fly tiers and more

If you have a mountain of small idividual items to organize-beads, embellishments, jewelry supplies, etc., this is your organizer-60 individual clear poly cups with snap tight tethered lids (Each Cup is 2 1/2″ round X 7/8″ deep). You can store and organize lots of different items in this tried and true organizer- it has been out for years and is featured in many beading magazines and on TV. Excellent gift for that crafty person who needs to organize. Use with our Tidy Tray item #1612. Comes fully assembled. Only the organizer-no others item included.

R.R.P 21.99 our price £18.99 Buy now

Small Carousel Organiser

Tidy up your craft space with New Phase Organisers. No more hassle of looking for your craft supplies. Beads, bobbins, glitter, powders, sequins, eyelets, snaps and more, are right where you can see them in these wonderful clear containers! Made of sturdy plastic, these containers will hold up to years of crafting! Carousel 12 Slot Black- 12 clear, polypropylene, round containers (2.5″ diameter and 7/8″ deep) fit easily into slots around a circular plastic base. Base has a deep triangular center basin for holding taller items. Rivets included for stacking more than one together.

R.R.P £7.99 Our Price £4.99 Buy Now

Ultimate Stacker

The Ultimate Stacker from Tidy Crafts Holds Everything from pins and needles to snaps, brads, beads, buttons…nuts and bolts to paper clips and push pins, tackle to sequins and jewelry. Keep all the small stuff in your life organized in 5 durable layers- 8 compartments per layer. When you are ready to clean up and go, just fit the layers over the hollow center post, put your tools in the hollow, and lock all together with the locking cap. 7”x7”x6” Blue hexagon.

R.R.P £11.99 Our Price £8.99 Buy Now

Tidy Crafts Stow n Go Storage Containers Special Price

2009-04-12T17:37:00.005+01:00

Organize all the small stuff in your life to take with you on your holidaySix secure "Snap in-Pop out" durable poly containers hold embellishments, fishing tackle, beads, nuts, bolts, jewelry, sequins...and more. The cups with their secure lids lock neatly into place in the special "Eclipse" holder. The entire unit becomes portable- handy to see all your stuff-easy to access by the push of your finger. Comes with lanyard for travel or simply mount it under your counter, dash, or on the inside of a cabinet door! 3'' D x 7'' H. sky blue.

Stow N Go Singles only £4.99 each

The Bead Cafe Clearance Sale.

2009-04-12T17:09:00.010+01:00

Grab a bargain we are having a clear out of The Bead Cafe Bead Packs to make room for new spring stock only £3.99