Upcycled Christmas Gift Tags

Hi all!

Baby B is napping so I thought I would check in quickly with an update! I thought you might find this useful with Christmas looming.

Last Christmas I took recycled tag making kiddie style and stepped it up a notch by cutting luggage tag shapes out of old cards, instead of the pictures. I used the tags on goodies at a Christmas bazaar and of course all of my gifts to family members. I found the whole process quite therapeutic!

I decided that this tag making would become a Christmas tradition in the B Household as it would recycle all of the Christmas cards that we receive and save money on tags that get thrown away. Resourceful in every way and you can never beat a bit of a handmade touch!

Before this christmas I vowed that I would turn my collection of old cards into tags before starting this annual tag making activity. As all you crafters will know, most of us 'collect' so the pile was pretty big! However, as I said I would do, I got back to my project list, and last night I tackled a huge pile of cards!

Heres what we do....

1) Use a luggage tag that you like the style of, or a template of a tag that you like and place it over a bit of the picture that you like on an old Christmas card.

2) Draw around the tag and cut it out.

3) Punch a hole in the top of the tag, and tie some ribbon or string through the hole.

See, as easy as... well 1, 2, 3!!

On another note, at the Crafty B's Craft Group last night, I tried some embossing on some cards and I have to say I found it very addictive. The lady who lent me the equipment has informed me that she has located some new stencils. Can't wait to do some more next week!

If you find this Christmas tag malarky of any use, please share this post with you Facebook friends and Twitter followers :)

Love and bubbles,

Mrs Crafty B

Crafting a Daydream with Mrs Crafty B

And so here is my new blog!

OK so it doesn't look too different but I am now using a different platform which means I don't have to be at one particular desktop to share a post, which also means that I can update more often (she says).

It has been a crazy, crazy couple of years but as things are starting to settle down and we are all getting rested up for the big C word, I am finding that I have more time to spend on crafting. Baby B is now big enough to join in! Let the fun commence.

I have said so many times in previous posts, 'I'll tell you about that another time' or 'I'll keep you posted' so I guess my first job is to make good on those promises and update you on previous projects that are done and dusted and tell you what I am working on now. Hopefully this will serve me with some inspiration to get my butt into gear!

Although the links are now missing from my old blog posts, I have moved them over so I would love to take a trip back and share some old posts via Twitter and Facebook.

Keep an eye out for revisited posts and get in touch. I would love to hear what you are working on, what your crafty plans are for the C word and just to generally connect with all you crafters out there in the hope that we can offer each other some inspiration!

Happ-B crafting all

Mrs Crafty B

Crocheted Union Jack

Hola Crafty Bees

Thanks for checking in to read this blog post. I’m really pleased you have as it means I get to share my frustrations on this particular project!

The last couple of weeks have been a bit of a slog with my being a bit unwell. On the Dr’s orders, I was able to get a couple of days bed rest without Baby B being around which of course equated to lots of crochet and other crafting. A bit of daydreaming thrown in for good measure of course.

I took a look back over my project list and tried to get myself back on track with a bit of a clear out. For now I just want to share one particular project which I finally finished last night!

A while ago when the Union Jack craze hit, ok MONTHS ago, I decided I wanted to crochet one for myself. The search for a pattern began but I couldn't find one, so I decided to write one instead. Ignoring all of the warning signs of course i.e. crochet isn’t symmetrical, the colour changes are going will be problematic.

So pattern in hand, I got to practice and soon realised that on turning I would have to crochet backwards to get the effect I wanted and without having to cast of each colour as I went. Ignoring the knitted look, I got into the flow but left the project aside (as I do) to commit to other things in life. The weekend just gone saw me pick up the Jack, remember how to crochet backwards, crochet a row with the wrong size hook, undo my work, start again and finally finish.

Needless to say I went for a plain back piece to cover up all of the yarn changes at the back. I sort of wish I had taken a pic of those to show you the complications but then again, I’ll be glad to forget it.

I am going to attached a tab for a keyring and it will be treasured forever. Now I guess I need to look for a knitted pattern or maybe think about a large crochet pattern which wont cause me these problems. Maybe a cushion cover. I am certain I could figure it out..... can you see where this is going....

Please share any patterns you know of.

Mrs Crafty B

p.s. sorry about the bad lighting. Had to do this tonight whilst Baby B is tucked up in bed!

Fabric Hanging Hearts

My sister came to stay with me for a couple of days this week. She came along to Hardwick’s Crafty B’s Craft Group and I insisted she had a go at making some fabric hanging hearts as she didn’t win the one she had her eye on at Crafty B’s Craft Fair last weekend.

Most annoying is the fact that I never manage to get anything done myself yet I took her to get some fabric on Monday, helped her design and craft the whole thing and she went home this morning with a completed project.

So, in less then 48 hours, I have helped someone else start and finish a project. I guess I can add it to my list of projects inspired.

Back to my own list. I had a large crochet project on the go which is now completed but is a gift so I will share shortly. I have got back to working on another secret crochet project. Again, I will share this soon.

Last week I made a second infinity scarf for youngest sisters birthday. I have asked her for a pic of her modelling it for us and she is going to convince all of her Uni friends that it is a must have for the winter so I will soon be taking commissions on these.

Here are a couple of pics although you don't get the full effect so come back soon to see my sis modelling it for us.

Mrs Crafty B

Crafty B’s Craft Fair: The Result

The sun was shining last Saturday as the stall holders came out in their forces and as a team, we raised £574 for the Rosie Hospital Campaign!

The target was £500 so I am extremely pleased with the result of the first Crafty B’s Craft Fair. The aim was to get the community together to raise money for a worthy cause and I think that was most definitely achieved.

Crafting madness filled the Hobbycraft tables where there was card making, bag decorating, sun catchers being coloured in and fridge magnets calendars being prepared for 2013.

The raffle table was filled with goodies by lots of generous donators and the ACT team came to support the event with all of their Rosie goodies.

A big thanks to Bourn Golf and Leisure once again as well as all of the stall holders and don’t forget to check out some pictures from the day.

Now where’s that project list....

Mrs Crafty B

Crafty B's Craft Fair

Only one day of preparation left!

I have tried to advertise the fair as much as humanly possible to get people along to support The Rosie Hospital Campaign.

There will be a raffle of all of the very generously donated raffle prizes (thank you all) and Hobbycraft Cambridge are now running an open workshop. Activities include sun catchers and a simple cards for the children and for adults, "Home Sweet Home" hangers, 2013 Fridge Magnet Calendars and card making. I can’t wait to see everyone getting creative! I hope to be able to have a go myself.

We have a good line up of 30 stall holders and a rep will be there from The Rosie to raise more awareness and will be armed with Rosie wristbands and the like. Don’t miss out.

You can check out the stall holders here and don't forget to visit the event page

I will of course be there with a handful of my crocheted heart pendants, some mini succulent gardens that I planted in recycled vessels with crocheted jackets and of course there will be some baking tomorrow so come and see me when you arrive!

The venue has a fab restaurant so make a day of it and stop for lunch or a coffee to recharge from all the browsing.

It is set to be a good day so I hope you can make it.

See you on Saturday!

Mrs Crafty B

Craft Crazy

Crafts gone mad is the best way to describe the last few weeks.

The planning of Crafty B’s Craft Fair to raise money for The Rosie Hospital Campaign is moving along nicely and I'm in the process of getting the word out to as many people as possible.

Taking a step back into actual crafting, I'm finding a bit more time because as of last week I am no longer 'employed'. I will soon be self employed. Exciting times. I am in the process of setting up as a childminder and a full time craft crazy and I cannot wait to get started!

I have been furiously scribbling down designs here and there for unique homemade gifts, but as the story goes 'one never has time to make'. Let that no longer be the case!

I have also received a few requests for the little heart shaped pendants that I had been crocheting, so they have been keeping me busy.

One project that I have been tweeting pictures of the last few days is Baby B's birthday teddy which I started months ago!! Ridiculous! It’s coming together fast and this is a practice run of knitting shapes for future designs. Watch this space. This one is actually from a pattern in 20 to Make: Knitted Bears. I am in love with these books!

Anyhow, I must dash because being at home more means back to the baking and I have a few chocolate orange muffins awaiting some creamy butter icing!

Happy Friday

Mrs Crafty B

Hobbycraft Cambridge at Crafty B’s Craft Fair

So, last week I met with the lovely manager, Becky, at Hobbycraft Cambridge and they are keen to get involved in this great fundraising event.

Absolutely fantastic news and I am so excited. I’m please that so many people are willing to get involved!

In order to sponsor Crafty B’s Craft Fair and help to raise money for The Rosie Hospital Campaign, Hobbycraft will be donating some raffle prizes and running some workshops on the day.

DO NOT MISS OUT!!!

There will be two workshops running on the day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, but there will be limited places so please get in touch ASAP to book your place. There will also be a kids craft table for the little ones to get involved.

I will publish further details nearer to the time but to express interest or book your place, please email me.

Don’t forget that the fair will be taking place on September 8th 2012 at Bourn Golf and Leisure, so get the event in your diaries now.

There are still some stalls to be booked so again, please email to book your stall and don't forget to spread the word.

See you there!

Mrs Crafty B

Crafty B's Craft Fair for the Rosie Hospital Campaign

A Crafty B’s Craft Fair? Yes please!

I can’t believe I am actually embarking on the organisation of a crafts fair. It will take place on Saturday 8th September 2012 at Bourn Golf and Leisure in Bourn, Cambridgeshire. The fair is being held to raise money for the Rosie Hospital Campaign. I am so excited not only to be organising such an event but also to be raising money for such a great cause.

The Rosie Hospital Campaign is close to the heart of many local people including myself. This is reflected in the willingness of many local business to be involved and assist in raising as much of a contribution as possible. Baby B was born at the Rosie last year and I know that the extension of the hospital and its services to accommodate more women, could only ever be a positive thing. You can find out more about the the Rosie Hospital Campaign here.

The location of the fair is also close to my heart. Bourn Golf and Leisure was where Hubby B and I spent our wedding day last year in a wonderful marquee setting, having a sit down meal with all of our friends and family. The most perfect day made even better by the staff at the gold club! I couldn’t think of a better place to have a community event!

In terms of the Crafts Fair itself, it is intended to be a community event in all aspects. It will be a fair with a difference. If you are a crafter, or want to start a new hobby, come down and join the Crafty B’s Craft Group for a bit of crafting on the day!

So what can you do with this info? If you want to book a stall, get in touch! If you want to visit the fair or make a contribution to the event in some way, join me on Facebook to keep updated on all of the info and ways in which you can help. To make a contribution visit my Just Giving Page.

I hope that you can all join me in one way or another and as always, it would be great to hear from you. Please feel free to email me or find me on Facebook or Twitter.

 Mrs Crafty B

Cake

I can't wait to expand on my cake creating skills!

In my world of cake, there has been nothing more inspiring than Cake International at ExCel London, thus far.

I have done quite a bit of baking in the last few years and started my sugarcraft adventure only a couple of years ago. A lot of birthday cakes, a couple of occasion cakes, a number of lazy bakes and sales bakes, an engagement party cake and two wedding cakes later, I'm still learning and ready to make another person smile with a creative feast for the eyes and taste buds!

I'm ready for the big time baking! At Cake International, there was no shortage of beautiful creations that made me stop and say 'wow’ followed by ‘I could do that!' and practice make perfect. All the better.

I was motivated more than ever when I saw some of the stalls that were there and also some of the competition entries. There were some to rival the best there that were made by 12-16 years olds!!! Amazing.

Anyhow, just a little taster of what's to come. I'm keen to keep up to date with current trends such as sugar figurines and cake pops but I'm feeling that the best trend is retro. What happened to brush embroidery?

Another road to explore for moi.

And Baby B's first birthday show piece? Well, I purchased some alphabet cutters for a block letter effect for the lettering and I'm thinking a Zoo theme.

So away I go to clear out the sugarcraft cupboard and baking trolly to get ready!

Happy Baking

Mrs Crafty B

p.s. Watch this space for some VERY exciting news!

Photo by Rebecca Goddard Photograpy

Crochet Heart Key Pendant

I have been going craft crazy!

I haven't had a lot of free time lately, hence my delay in delivering a new post but in the time that I have had, I have been very productive. Obviously there has been a bit of daydreaming in between!

My first achievement since I last posted was a reunion with my mixing bowl and wooden spoon. The result?Some lemon and white chocolate cupcakes for my Crafty B’s Craft Group in Hardwick.

They seemed to go down quite well.

Obviously my love for all things crochet has led to some more hook hook hookin’. I have been crocheting little hearts and flowers, continuing with a couple of other projects and you may have seen the little heart that I crocheted as a birthday gift for a friend. I attached a keying in order to create a key pendant. She loved it! I was so pleased. That was definitely a highlight of my craftiness over the last couple of weeks. I love to see someone else enjoying the results of my crafting enthusiasm.

If you would like to own one of these lovely little hearts or would like to send a bit of love to someone special let me know! I have a choice of colours :). Contact me via e-mail or join me on Facebook and Twitter.

Along the same theme, I started to create my first ‘Mrs Crafty B's Guide To...' I cannot tell you how excited I am! It was a step by step guide to crochet stitches and I used it for my first theme night at my Crafty B’s Craft Group. It is currently incomplete as I need to add a few pics but as soon as I do, I will share it with you.

Perhaps you can offer me an idea of what crochet related subjects you find difficult to find. I would love to put together a really comprehensive guide with some easy to follow patterns. Join me on Facebook and Twitter to offer a few ideas and some inspiration.

In other crafty related news, last Saturday I headed to Cake International at ExCel in London. What a day! I have also started a very special cross stitch. I have lots to say on both of those fronts so I will share that with you next time.

Ta Ta for now

Mrs Crafty B

Crocheted Easter Chicks

Take a look at my little crocheted Easter Chicks!

It has been a hectic couple of weeks and today is the first chance I have had to post these! A bit late for Easter, but hopefully of interest to someone!

I made my first little chick free hand and stuffed it with toy stuffing.

I had began to make a second one, noting down my pattern, when I had a request for two chicks that could hold a chocolate egg. This is the result.

What do you think? Can you guess what is hiding inside?

I made Baby B one as well, of course finishing right at the last minute on Easter Sunday. He is a bit young for eating said chocolate egg and so Mummy will definitely have to help him! Here are two little chickies bagged up and ready to be sent to two very lucky little boys.

I do have to admit that my desire to learn a few new crafts has been taken over by an addiction to crocheting. I have even started reading about the history of the craft.

A trip back to my love of sugarcraft is imminent as Baby B’s first birthday is in the Summer. One big fat over the top cake coming right up!

As I sign off, here is a little snippet of two of the ‘secret crochet projects’ ;)

Happ-B crafting.

Mrs Crafty B

Ribbons and Things

What a week! Not only have I managed to keep on top of everything at Crafty B's HQ, but I have managed to get a few little crafty things done here and there!

A Weekend of Crochet: Teddy Bears and Plant Pot Covers

What a lovely weekend! I spent some very much required quality time with Hubby and Baby B. I also managed to get a bit of crochet done in a leisurely manner.

In doing so, on Saturday night, I completed last week’s ‘project of the week!’ I used the same pattern as my last crocheted teddy and made a few notes on how to write my own pattern! In my last post about this little crocheted bear, I pictured the yarn I decided to use. Here is how he turned out.

Book Browse: Maisie Parrish's Fun and Original Children's Cakes

Maisie Parrish is one of my inspirations. In 2010, I did a sugarcraft course and we used one of Maisie’s designs from her book, Fun and Original Children’s Cakes.

My finished work does not do Maisie’s justice and it isn't exactly the same but I had a good go and was very proud of my first attempt.

This Weeks Project - Crocheted Teddy Bear

As I write this, I am sitting in a little cafe, watching the world go by whilst Baby B has a nap before our baby signing class. My daydreaming this morning has taken me to a place of floating scraps fabric, unwinding yarn spiralling around hooks, needles moving in and out of canvas embroidering the words 'finish me' .

Ok so I made that up, but I'm desperately trying to get my thoughts into some sort of order along with all my 'project boxes'. Even the best organisational tactics don't result in projects being finished.

A Trip to London and Visiting the V&A Museum: The Power of Making

Last week, Hubby B's work took him to London for the day and so Baby B and I tagged along. We walked through Green Park and onto Buckingham Palace (just missing the Queen making an appearance I might add). We walked around St James Park, down to Victoria Embankment and then back towards the V&A Museum. I had seen a very interesting exhibition online entitled 'Power of Making' but sadly I had missed it. I purchased the publication that went alongside the exhibition and this is making for interesting reading thus far.

Walking through the V&A was an enlightening experience to say the least. I began to see crafting, or ‘making’ in a different light. In discussing objects within our everyday life, Daniel Charny writes;

Crafty B's Craft Group in Hardwick, Cambridgeshire

I am buzzing with excitement! After much procrastination, I have finally finished, or perhaps just started one of my biggest projects yet; a craft group for my local community! 

The group will run on a Monday evening from 7.15pm until 9pm and if you are in the area (Hardwick Cambridgeshire), head on down to join in the fun. 

It will be an informal group, meeting up to complete their own crafting projects, share skills with one another, start new projects together and I have lots more in store. Of course there will be tea, coffee and biscuits to keep us fuelled. As if the excitement wouldn’t B-enough haha. 

Please join me on my Facebook page to keep up to date. 

Happ-B crafting! 

*This craft group is still up and running (Jan 2016) although I no longer run it. Please feel free to contact me for more details.

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Coffee, Cake and a Craft Fair

The last weekend of February turned out to be filled with friends, family, sunshine, coffee, cake and crafts. What more could a girl like me ask for? We headed down to a nearby town on Saturday for a crafts fair and there certainly was a lot to be inspired by.

How to Knit a Chunky Knit Scarf

In Autumn 2010, I started to knit a chunky scarf. On Boxing Day 2011, I finally finished it!

This scarf can officially go in my 'Completed Projects' list. For this oversized scarf I used big chunky wool and very big needles. It really is a monster but I'm very pleased with the result. The tension difference in my casting off to my casting on, shows the difference in my knitting ability in the start compared to the end. Knitting on the huge needles was a lesson in itself!

Crocheted Teddy Bear

This little fella was the first bear I ever crocheted. I used a pattern from Baby Knit & Crochet magazine (issue29).

Although you may not be able to see it clearly, the little heart on his chest says Max. It was a Christening gift for the first born son of some very special friends of mine and Hubby B's.

Crocheted Baby Rattle

When I was pregnant with Baby B, one of Hubby B's friends and his wife sent me a little gift. I decided to return this sentiment when I found out that they were due to have a baby. I crocheted this baby rattle for them.

Seeking a Past of Crafts: Digging out My Old Craft Projects

The little one has gone down for his pre lunch nap. I have dug out a few things and taken a few snap shots. Now, armed with a hot water bottle, (because the beautiful snow is making me cold), a bowl of homemade muesli (thanks hubby), and a huge mug of tea (of course), I am going to share with you what I have found.

Crafting a Daydream

I actually have a series of reoccurring daydreams. I’m feeling a need to start making them reality. I’ve lived my life up to now being a dreamer. Now I want to be a do-er. My new Ethos:

Don’t dream a dream. Live it.