Say Cheese!

Hi Crafty Friends,

Wow! I am so overwhelmed by the support I've had for my Advent Calendars.  I can't wait to see how everyones turns out.  These really come together quite quickly and are such a lovely addition at Christmas.  Tonight is the night when my children and I fill our calendars and really start the Christmas excitement.

I have been busy creating again.  When my daughter went on her year 5 camp to the snow this year, I wanted to give her a special album.  I came up with a box that looks like a camera but on the inside, there is a mini album.  I wanted to keep things simple and this is her special place for her favourite photos from her camp.  You can make this in an evening and it is a great way to showcase all the gorgeous papers that we all love so much.  I know I have a bit of a paper addiction,  I am working through it though.
I will produce a tutorial shortly for this, so stay tuned.

Our gorgeous Cavie puppies are getting bigger each day.  Their eyes have all opened now and they are trying to walk.  So darn cute.


Till next time,
Stay Crafty,
XO Tan

Christmas Advent Calendar

Hi Crafty Friends,
Recently I shared with you one of my Advent Calendars that I've made for my family.  I have written a tutorial for this project and you can purchase this for only $3 USD. This tutorial will come with written and video step-by-step instructions.  This is the first time I've done a paid tutorial and I hope that it is ok with everyone.  Please be patient with me as I am working it all out as I go.  Let me know if you have any concerns with the tutorial and I will do what I can to help.  These calendars come together quite quickly and they are truly an heirloom piece.  If you would like the full instructions and comprehensive video tutorial, please press the PayPal button and follow the links to purchase.  I will then send you a link to the tutorial video and file.

Till next time,
Stay Crafty,
XO Tan


P.S. My gorgeous Cavalier puppies are just opening their eyes. They are just way too cute for words.



Christmas Advent Calendar $3.00 AUD

Makin' Minis

Hello Crafty Friends,

It's been pretty hectic here. From puppies to paper, we've been making something.  I have been busy making mini albums again. These take me back to my happy place. I am slowly converting all my store bought albums to handmade mini albums.....and I love them.  This way I can share my creativity for years to come. With each turn of the page, there is loads of colour and individuality.  I am able to store all kinds of memorabilia's as well as the all important photos.  I am completely in love with Stampin' Up's range of patterned papers.  They fold beautifully without cracking and look amazing.  Tell me what you think? What is your favourite paper?

Till next time,
Stay Crafty,
XO Tan

Online Extravaganza Awesomeness

Hi Crafty Friends,
Has everyone been busy creating awesome projects? I have been working hard on projects for the upcoming Christmas markets. From mini albums to advent calendars, and even a few cards, paper and ink has been flying everywhere. My favourite product at the moment has to be hands down the amazing new Stampin’ Blends. I’ve been addicted to alcohol based markers for colouring for many years, but the new Blends are so easy and fun to use. I’m even converting my non colouring friends. The colour glides on easily and you achieve a seamless blend by just using the light and dark shades.
If you are interested in the Stampin’ Blends please drop me a line. One fabulous way to get your hands on these new markers for a discounted price is by joining as a demonstrator.  It’s certainly been the best crafty decision I’ve ever made.

Now......serious business......ONLINE EXTRAVAGANZA
for 24 hours starting at midnight, Stampin’ Up are having a flash sale. Many products greatly discounted. Hmmmm....only an hour and a half to go....looks like i’ll Be staying up haha.
Till next time, Cuddle a Cavie!
Stay crafty,
XO Tan

Advent Calendar Craftiness

Hello Crafty Friends,

It's been a busy week here at the Zoo! We are once again on puppy countdown with only a week to go. Also with a week to go is Onstage Local.  I will be going up to the Gold Coast and can't wait to see other crafty friends at this amazing event. I will also be visiting my Son who lives up there. He has just had a birthday and it was the first time I haven't been there for his birthday. They grow up so quickly.....
Now, on to seriously crafty business.....
......Advent Calendars
I have had so much fun with these. Advent calendars are a tradition in my family. My three children have a fabric calendar that I made 12 years ago for them and every year on the 30th of November, we fill our calendars with sweets. It is one of the things my children look forward to about Christmas.

This year I decided in the theme of all things crafty, I would make one out of cardstock.  I was inspired by a picture I saw on the web, as soon as I can find it I will link to it.
The cover is made with thick chipboard and all the boxes are made with regular SU! cardstock.  These calendars fold to look like a book and they open up to display 24 little boxes where you store your treats.