Monday, 24 March 2025

Spring Has ‘Sprung’

Dia dhuit, everyone!

Ah, sure look—it’s officially spring! Or at least, that’s what the calendar claims. Here in Ireland, "spring" mostly means the rain has upgraded from vertical to sideways, and the shops are suddenly heaving with enough chocolate eggs to send us all into a sugar coma by Monday. Priorities, people! ;) 

Meanwhile, I’ve been working with my trusty vintage Silhouette Cameo (which, let’s be honest, is basically the crafting equivalent of a Nokia 3310—indestructible and weirdly nostalgic). I’ve been slicing, dicing, and bedazzling like a woman possessed because, let’s face it, when the weather’s this grim, what else is there to do but craft and eat Mini Eggs?

Tap the pic for an enhanced view ;)

The backing papers are from the Lovely Studio (sadly no longer trading), and I’ve jazzed them up with die cuts, glitter (because subtlety is overrated), Glossy Accents (for that "ooh, shiny!" factor), and even some rogue silver thread (which may or may not have tangled itself into next week).

Onto a few challenges:
Creative Crafting Uncles #63 Spring and/or Easter
A Cut Above - Die Cut Challenge Blog  (Must Use at least one die cut using a machine, not a pre-fabricated) - Mar - Anything Goes
Everybody-Art-Challenge #575 - Lots of Layers
Try It On Tuesday - Spring Fling
2 Sisters On The Blog #95 - Spring and/or Easter

With a hectic workweek looming, I’m squeezing in all the crafty chaos I can tonight—because nothing says "I’m an adult" like staying up late to glue tiny bits of paper together while mainlining tea.

So here’s to Easter, to spring (or at least the idea of it), and to chocolate eggs that definitely don’t count as calories if you eat them while crafting. May your bunnies be glittery, your die cuts be precise, and your raincoat be waterproof!

Sláinte!
Wendy R. x
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Glitter Bunnies

Dia dhuit, everyone!

Well, crafty friends, I’ve been at it again— trying to transform humble cardstock into something that shimmers with festive cheer! 

Tap the pic for an enhanced view ;)

First, let’s take a moment to appreciate the Lovely Studio/ Pink Petticoat backing papers—absolutely divine, though sadly no longer with us. (Cue dramatic sigh.) I’ve been guarding these like a dragon with a particularly pretty hoard, and Easter felt like the perfect time to let them shine.

Next up, my wee rabbits—a self-designed SVG cut with my trusty (and slightly vintage) Silhouette Cameo. It’s seen better days, but like a determined little trooper, it still delivers! These bouncy fellows were crafted from iridescent white glitter cardstock because, let’s face it, Easter should always have a bit of sparkle.

The "Easter Blessings" sentiment got the Ranger’s Glossy Accents treatment—transforming it from "nice" to "Ooh, shiny!" in seconds. (No regrets. Zero.)

Onto  a few challenges:


So here we are: a card that’s equal parts whimsy and wonder, with bunnies that practically glow. Wishing you an Easter filled with joy, chocolate, and just the right amount of crafty chaos!

Sláinte!
Wendy R. x

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With a Side of Scotch!

 Dia dhuit, everyone!

Well, my nerves are doing the cha-cha today—I’ve just sent off my CV and cover letter for a Leadership in Clinical Governance position (say that five times fast!). Between you and me, my stomach’s hosting a full-on ceilidh of butterflies. So, what’s the best way to shoo them away? A wee bit of cardmaking, of course!

Today’s creation features the fabulous Whiskey Business Cling Stamp Set from Stampin’ Up. Because nothing says “calm under pressure” like a stamp set dedicated to Scotland’s finest liquid courage, am I right? (Don’t worry, I stuck to colouring with Promarkers—no actual Scotch was harmed in the making of this card… though a dram may have been consumed afterwards for research purposes.)


I kept the design simple—coloured the Scotch, added some clear flatback gems for a bit of bling (because even a stiff drink deserves to sparkle), and stamped a sentiment (free from a craft magazine many moons ago) in Staz-On ink—because nothing says "permanent life choice" like a sentiment that won’t budge, much like my love for puns.

I’ll be entering this into a few challenges :
--

Anyway, if you're also drowning in adulting—whether it's job applications, life-altering decisions, or the crushing realisation that your cat judges you harder than your own inner critic—just know you're not alone  - remember: deep breaths, a wee bit of crafting, and maybe a cheeky whisky reference. Or just the whisky. No judgement here.

Sláinte!
Wendy R. x

P.S. If I don’t get the job, at least my cardmaking skills are still on the rocks. (I’ll see myself out.)
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Tuesday, 18 March 2025

Crafting, Craic, and Christmas in March

Dia dhuit, everyone!

Well, St. Patrick’s Day went grand – I was on night shift over the bank holiday, but I managed to sneak in for the last half hour of the céilí at the local pub. Let’s just say, I’m fairly certain Disprin is now the official sponsor of March 18th. 😉 But hey, it was worth it! The craic was mighty!

Now, onto my card for today. I decided to channel my inner Grinch because, well, why not? Christmas in March? Sure, it’s practically summer in Ireland anyway! (Kidding, it’s still raining sideways.)


I created a Grinch Christmas tree card using my Silhouette machine. I layered it up to add some dimension, and kept the embellishments simple – just a touch of gloss and glitter. Because if there’s one thing the Grinch needs, it’s a bit of sparkle to soften that grumpy heart of his.

I’m entering this into a few challenges 

Until next time, keep crafting, keep laughing, and keep the Disprin close.

Sláinte!
Wendy R. x
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Saturday, 15 March 2025

Top O’ the Morning? Not Quite!

Ah, the merry month of March, when the world suddenly discovers its love for all things green, and we Irish find ourselves explaining, once again, that we don’t actually greet each other with “Top of the morning to ya!” ;)

As someone who's spent more than a few mornings in the Emerald Isle, let me just say, if you’re expecting a friendly “top” from your local Irishman/woman, you’re more likely to get a head nod and a muttered “How’s the craic?” instead. It’s as if the phrase was concocted by the same folks who think we all have leprechauns on speed dial and pots of gold under our beds ;)

Speaking of leprechauns, let’s dive into the delightful shenanigans of this magical month. My crafting card of choice is the 'Wish You Luck' set from Power Poppy, which I've coloured with Promarkers. I've elevated the bouquet with foam pads and added a bit of sparkle with gems and flatback pearls. The sentiment, from Pretty Pink Posh’s Everyday Greetings, is stamped with Stazon.

Ps. Don't forget it's time for the "Anything Goes" challenge at Ally's Angels, challenge #92. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a curious newbie, this is your chance to let your creativity shine.

click image for a closer look ;)

Given it’s the month of shenanigans, I’ve taken the liberty of colouring it in the tricolour of the Irish flag: An Bhratach Náisiúnta. After all, who says we can’t have a bit of fun with colours while celebrating our quirky Irish heritage?

Onto a few challenges:

So, whether you’re crafting, hunting for leprechauns, or just trying to avoid those pesky “top o’ the morning” assumptions, remember to enjoy the mischief and laughter (and beer ;) this season brings. After all, isn’t that what being a bit Irish is all about?

Lá Fhéile Pádraig Sona Duit!!
Sláinte!
Wendy R. 
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Thursday, 13 March 2025

Merry Craftmas: Decking the Halls with Handmade Cards!

 Dia dhuit, everyone! 

I set a New Year's resolution to craft two Christmas cards a month, and I'm trying to stick to it, though Netflix and my nap schedule have other plans. Apparently, "just one more episode" is the greatest crafting nemesis of all time!

Today's wee card features the irresistible reindeer from the Clearly Besotted Let's Prance Stamp set. I kept it CAS and added a dash of sparkle. Using ProMarkers, I brought those reindeer to life and added three sparkly red gems for their noses, making them shine as bright as my holiday spirit. A touch of Ranger's Glossy Accents adds the perfect finishing touch.

The striped background was a delightful surprise, made from an offcut in my stash. Waste not, want not, right? And with foam pads for dimension, this card has more pop than my Christmas playlist.

Onto a few challenges:

So, if you see me swimming in a sea of cards come December, just know I'm happily crafting away. 

Sláinte!
Wendy R. x.
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Didly Day Hey

Dia dhuit, everyone!

As the calendar inches closer to March 17th, you can almost hear the collective sound of Ireland sharpening its wit, preparing its livers, and dusting off its finest green attire. Yes, St. Patrick's Day is upon us, that glorious day when everyone suddenly discovers their inner Irish roots ;) . It's a day of revelry, laughter, and the occasional questionable decision—like attempting to dance a jig after a few too many pints of Guinness. But hey, isn't that what makes the day so special?

Spring is also making its grand entrance, with flowers starting to bloom and the world waking up from its winter nap. It's the perfect time to send out a little cheer with one of my last St. Patrick's Day cards, ready to be mailed today. This one features a charming shamrock bouquet from Waltzingmouse Stamps, colored with Promarkers. It's mounted with foam tape for that added dimension, giving it a little extra pop. I used the last of my shamrock scrapbook paper as the background—waste not, want not! Some of the shamrocks are highlighted with glossy accents and embellished with ultra-fine iridescent glitter for that extra sparkle.

Onto a few challenges:
Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge: A Bit of Green
Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge: Bit O' Green
Creatalicious Challenges #286 - Anything Goes + option: Use Green
Halloween Crafts and Other Occasions #24  March - Halloween and Other Occasions (Occasions - Birthday, St. Patrick's Day, and Caffeine)
If You Give a Crafter a Cookie #202 - Lucky in Green
2 Sisters On The Blog #95 - Spring and/or Easter
Digi Choosday #3 - Anything goes
Colourful Options - Mar - Moodboard:

Thanks for joining me on this journey toward the greenest day of the year. May your celebrations be filled with joy, laughter, and just the right amount of mischief!

As we gear up for the festivities, here's a little something to put you in the mood for St. Patrick's Day: a classic featuring Richie Kavanagh ;)

Sláinte!
Wendy R. x.
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Shamrocks, Spring, and St. Patrick's Cheer

 Dia dhuit, everyone!

Spring is gently stepping into the scene, bringing with it the refreshing promise of blooming flowers and the warmth we've all been craving. But the real excitement lies just four days ahead when everything turns a glorious shade of green. And no, I don't just mean the daring hair choices some folks make! It's that time of year when leprechauns mysteriously appear in all sorts of odd places, and pints of Guinness seem to reproduce faster than you can say "Sláinte!" If you've never witnessed a leprechaun trying to order a round at the local pub, you're truly missing out on one of life's great spectacles.

So, onto one of my last St. Patrick's Day cards that's set to be mailed today. Sadly, there are no pints enclosed—just a lottery ticket. I'm convinced the lottery machines are on the fritz because my numbers never line up. Honestly, I might have a better shot at finding that elusive pot of gold at the end of the rainbow than winning the lottery! Maybe I should consult a leprechaun for some insider tips.


Today's card is adorned with the 'Bit O Luck' by the the late Faith Skrdla (From The Heart Stamps). Coloured with Promarkers and mounted with foam tape for that extra bit of dimension. Embellishments include gold thread and glitter. The background is dry embossed, and it reminds me of Irish lace, a beautiful craft slowly fading into history. But rest assured, as long as I have my trusty craft supplies, the spirit of Irish lace will live on!

Onto a few challenges:


Thanks for joining me on this whimsical journey toward St. Patrick's Day. May your days be filled with laughter, your pints be ever-flowing, and your lottery tickets luckier than mine!

And before you go, indulge in a tune with a touch of Irish charm. Listen here.


Sláinte!
Wendy R. x.
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Monday, 10 March 2025

Crafty Catch-Up: Christmas in March

 Dia dhuit, everyone!

So, here I am, in the middle of March, realising my New Year's resolution to craft at least two Christmas cards per month has gone a bit off track—surprise, surprise! December is creeping up faster than a cat on a laser pointer, and my card stash is sadly lacking. But fear not, I've whipped up a delightful card featuring the whimsical "Woodland Scenes Owl" by LOTV to get back on track.

Tap the pic for an enhanced view ;)

This adorable owl takes center stage, coloured with ProMarkers and adorned with just the right amount of glitter and gems. A touch of gold 0.4mm thread adds a bit of festive sparkle. The background, dry embossed with Lisa Horton Craft's wood panel embossing folder, gives it a rustic charm.

Now, I know you're wondering how an owl connects with a manger. Well, if you squint and use a bit of imagination, this wise little owl might just be the silent observer of the nativity scene, standing watch over the manger with all the wisdom of the ages—or at least that's what I tell myself!

Onto a few challenges:

And now, for a giggle to end things on a high note: Why was the Christmas card sent to jail? Because it was framed!

Sláinte!
Wend R. x.

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Crafty Shenanigans: March Birthday Madness

 Dia dhuit, everyone!

March is here, bringing a parade of birthdays that would make even a calendar blush. Naturally, I've been diving into my craft stash to whip up a masculine card or two. This one showcases the Tie Set  by MyLifeInStamps, a hidden treasure I stumbled upon while clearing out my dwindling card stock. An Amazon spree is tempting, but with holidays and school supplies looming, it's a bit of a financial balancing act.

Tap the pic for an enhanced view ;)

I've coloured the card using ProMarkers, while the sentiment is stamped with StazOn for a sharp finish. It might be a bit oversized for the card, but hey, it complements the bold colours. Glossy accents on the ties add some flair, and foam tape gives it a pop of dimension. This card practically leaps off the table, demanding attention!

By the way, the berry colour on the card appears purple in the picture, thanks to the phone's auto image enhance feature. In reality, it's more of a rich berry shade. So much for technology, right?

A few challenges:


And now for a chuckle: Why don't crafters ever get lost? Because they always follow the paper trail!

Sláinte!
Wend R. x.

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Saturday, 8 March 2025

A Wee Bit of Irish Card-Making Fun

 Dia dhuit, everyone! ...bringing a touch of Irish charm to your day. 

Today, I'm tackling the 'Try a Sketch on Tuesday' challenge #665 with the delightful '4 Leaf Clover' stamp set from Colorado Craft Company, designed by Anita Jeram, to sprinkle a bit of luck on my card.

Tap the pic for an enhanced view ;)

I've coloured it using Promarkers—check out the bar at the top of my blog for all my colour recipes. I hit a slight snag with my green ink pad collection, but Memento's Bamboo Shoot saved the day. It's not quite the emerald green of Ireland, but hey, it's close enough to be shade number 41 in the '40 Shades of Green' collection! I also went and put two grand lines on a card, like a couple of leprechauns doing a jig down the left side with their scoreboard in tow.

For a finishing touch, I've used Ranger's Glossy Accents and glitter to make the butterfly and clover shimmer. After all, if it doesn't glisten like a leprechaun's gold, can you even call it complete?

Onto a few challenges:

And here's a little Irish humour to wrap things up: 

Why don't you ever borrow money from a leprechaun? 
Because they're always a little short!

Sláinte!
Wend R. x
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Thursday, 6 March 2025

Luck, Laughter, and Leprechauns: A St. Patrick’s Day Card Adventure

 Dia dhuit, everyone!

Ah, it's Springtime! The sun's trying its best to break through the clouds like it’s in a game of peekaboo, and we’re all dressed in green, looking like a bunch of overly enthusiastic leprechaun impersonators. As the big day approaches, I've got a little gift for ye, straight from the heart of the Emerald Isle — and no, it’s not a pot of gold (trust me, I checked, and the leprechauns are still holding onto those).

So, about that wee gift I mentioned: it's Molly, a free digi stamp all the way from Ireland! To download, just click on the digi, and a new window will open. Right-click and select 'save as.' Easy as pie. Or should I say, easy as a pint of Guinness on St. Paddy's Day?

Now, onto my card: featuring herself, Molly, happy out and ready for the parade. I've coloured her with Promarkers and added some enamel dots and glitter for that extra sparkle. I also used Ranger's glossy accents, tinted with Promarkers, to give it a glossy finish. Just a note: in the picture, the gloss appears much darker, but trust me, it’s as bright as a leprechaun's smile.

.... and a wee tip for colouring the flag: Green, white, and orange, folks! Not to be mixed up with the Ivory Coast flag. Unless, of course, you fancy celebrating St. Patrick's Day with elephants and a side of cocoa beans!

Tap the pic for an enhanced view ;)

Onto a few challenges:

  • Double D : Green  /Photo Inspirations:  


To wrap up, here’s an Irish joke to keep the craic going: 

How can you tell if an Irishman is having a good time? 
He's Dublin over with laughter!

Sláinte!
Wendy R.

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Card Chaos: When Crafting Shenanigans Strike Again

Dia Dhaoibh!

So, onto my next card this week. Let me tell ya, as per my previous blog post, nothing is going right this week. Talk about shenanigans! I'm convinced the leprechauns are having a laugh, and hopefully, there's no sighting of a banshee. Just remember, if she throws a comb at ya, throw it back! 😉

This wee card features a wee gnome from the My Favorite Things JB Wings & Wishes stamp set, colored with Promarkers and embellished with gems. The background is a stencil I had cut with the Silhouette. I also used foam pads for some 3D effect, because why not add a little dimension to the mischief? Now, coloring was a bit of a challenge this week—let's just say my autistic tendency for perfection (yep, late-diagnosed AuDHD) got the better of me. It ended up getting darker and darker, but hey, it didn't turn out too bad in the end!

Tap the pic for an enhanced view ;)

Onto a few challenges:

Before you go, here's a little Irish joke to keep the smiles coming:

What do you call a fake Irish stone? 

A sham-rock!

Sláinte!
Wendy R.

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March Madness: When Crafting Goes Awry

 Hi folks,

Here we are, welcoming March with open arms and green landscapes. Daffodils are blooming, and the leprechauns are certainly having a laugh at my expense because this week has been a crafting catastrophe! From missing crochet stitches to smudgy stamping, nothing is going to plan. Here's hoping next week will be better.

Let's talk about my latest card: I decided to use a Gorjuss stamp (Rainbow Heaven) from Santoro. I stamped it with Memento ink and colored it with Promarkers. All the embellishments are highlighted with glitter and glossy accents, hoping to add a bit of sparkle to my otherwise dreary week.


Tap the pic for an enhanced view ;)

But, let's be honest here, the Gorjuss stamps and I are going through a bit of a breakup. Remember when they first hit the scene? It was like crafting Christmas! But now, with enough stamps to fill a leprechaun's pot, I'm just not feeling the spark. So, I've bagged up all the wee ones, and they're headed to the charity shop, where someone else can fall head over heels for them. May they bring joy and glitter to their new home!

Onto a few challenges:

And now, to lighten the mood, here's a little Irish joke for you:

Why did the leprechaun go outside? 
To sit on his paddy-o!

Sláinte!
Wendy R.

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Wednesday, 19 February 2025

Layered Embellishments on the Fast Track

Greetings! Broadcasting straight from the realm of eat, sleep, work, repeat. Yes, I'm back on the dayshift treadmill, so brace yourself for a quickie!

Tap the pic for an enhanced view ;)

Today's card is as "simple" as it gets — if by "simple" you mean an extravaganza of layered embellishments meticulously cut with a Silhouette Cameo. We're talking about cardstock that’s been lounging around since 2018, finally getting its moment in the spotlight. The digital SVG cut files hail from Lettering Delight, all perched atop white embossed cardstock. Those embossed scribbles are so faint, they're practically playing hide and seek with the camera’s flash. Who knew crafting could be this cheeky?

The embellishments are stacked with foam pads for that blockbuster 3D effect — without those ridiculous glasses. The vintage cassette die cut is a nod to us Generation Xers, who still remember the joy of rewinding tapes with a pencil. The 'rock' is bedazzled with red glitter, the undeniable diva of the card, while 'you' gets the royal treatment with Ranger's Glossy Accents. Because, let's face it, nothing says "you rock" like a glossy finish worthy of a superstar.


Onto a few challenges so:

And there you have it....  But before I dash off to my next eat-sleep-work cycle, let me leave you with a little chuckle: Why don’t scientists trust atoms? Because they make up everything.

Sláinte!
Wendy R.
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Tuesday, 18 February 2025

Éirinn Go Brágh

 Ah, Éirinn Go Brágh! That's "Ireland Forever" in the language of leprechauns and Guinness lovers. I spent the morning crocheting a little "seamróg" (shamrock) garland in five shades of 'green'. Why? Because the grand month of Irishness is upon us, and if you're not decked out in green, are you even Irish ...celebrating?

Speaking of celebrations, let me introduce you to  the "Shamrock n Roll" digital stamp from Power Poppy. I colored it with Promarkers, mounted it with foam pads for that extra oomph, and went to town with Ranger Glossy Accents and flatback gems. To add a bit of texture, I grabbed my trusty scoreboard and etched some lines into the card. The result? A card that's so Irish, it practically sings "Danny Boy" when you open it.

click on pic for better view ;)

A few challenges I'm entering:


But, of course, crafts project needs a funny note to end on. So here's a classic Irish joke for you:

Why don't you iron four-leaf clovers?

Because you don’t want to press your luck!

Sláinte!
Wendy R.



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