The atmosphere at the retreat was so inspirational that I produced a further three books.

The first of these was loosely based on a steampunk theme, with cogs layered over a stamped background in the cavity of the book.

 

 

The next effort was again based on a 3D composition in the cavity, but this time a corresponding aperture was also cut in the cover.  This was then glued to the rest of the book, with acetate sandwiched between, to form a frame.

 

 

 My final effort was based on Graphic 45's 'A Ladies Diary' papers and  Tim Holtz embellishments.



Back this afternoon from the wonderful weekend retreat near Skipton, Yorkshire.  The weather meant we had to spend an extra night there!  Terrible!  The theme was 'Altered Books'.  Something completely new to me, but what a refreshingly challenging task.

My first effort was a very surprising project, an Alpine garden.  The centre of the book, once removed, was lined with acetate and planted up with gritty soil and alpine plants.  The other page was decorated with some of the removed pages.

We've got a good sized garden with a small pond.  This was the sight that greeted me from the kitchen window this morning.

I'm getting excited about the coming weekend!  Off to Skipton for another stimulating time at a craft retreat organised by Michele and Janet of 'Lovin Ink'.  Altered books this time, so be prepared to see the results when I get back.  Going with Julia and meeting up again with Sue and Sandra.

Have a class on Promarker colouring this Wednesday that I've just finished prepping for  The cards from the last class are shown.  Cards for children/grandchildren were requested.

I'm now making up for lost time and posting even more of the cards I've delivered in the Craft Den classes.

These were designed for classes at The Craft Den, Wisbech, Cambs during 2012.

Getting into the swing of this.  Thought I'd post a few of my past creations and catch up.

I'm terrible.  Just got started and already falling behind.  Must become more disciplined and set  regular time aside to upload new posts.

It's been a busy week.  I've worked an extra day because of Terri's operation and done a Hougie demo in the shop, but who's complaining about extra craft time!

The last class was a little different from the usual.  I pushed some boundaries for the group and introduced some new techniques by using gilding flakes and bleach.  They all seemed pleased with their end results and it's good to do something a little different occasionally.