Slat Wall For Sale

We have 22 sheets of Slatwall for sale, each measures 120 cm x 120 cm. The join is hidden between the middle insert, giving an assembled size of 240 cm high x 120 cm wide.

The sheets are white, complete with white plastic inserts.

Price for each sheet, with inserts, is £12. This will also include a bundle of free chrome hooks.

Anyone interested should call the shop on 01382 736 208.  The answer machine will be on if we are not here.

Paper Stands For Sale

We have two wire paper stands for sale at £60 each o.n.o.

Each stand had 60 paper slots and measures approx. 57" high x 25" wide x 11" deep (145 cm x 64 cm x 28 cm).

Anyone interested should call the shop on 01382 736 208. The answer machine will be on if we are not here.

Kitty Krafts shop is now closed

Thank you to all the customers who have supported me over the years.

I look forward to bringing you a range of quality products when the Kitty Krafts website goes live in the next few weeks. 

Louise

Free QuicKutz Squeeze !

Now here's a mad last weekend offer.

Get a FREE QuicKutz Sqeeze when you buy a 12 set of tag dies for just £29.99.  Yes, just £29.99 !  They were retailing for £89.99 a few weeks ago but they all have to go.  But you'd better hurry, there's only four three of them left

Like a bargain

You are all very keen to grab a bargain before the shop closes tomorrow. Going by how many were waiting on it opening this morning, and how many have been in so far it's going to be a busy day.

Only one week to go!

There's just one week left before the shop closes, but we still have lots of bargains available, even though we have been very busy the last few weeks.

Amongst the things available are lucky dip bags with 20 assorted 12" scrapbook papers for only £5.99, plus lots of other fantastic bargains. There's even a bus service again for those of you who don't have a car ( No. 206 ), so why not pop down and stock up on your crafting goodies

Blonde Moments Ultra Thick Embossing Powder

We have a range of Blonde Moments Ultra Thick Embossing Powder in stock, which we understand is no longer available from Blonde Moments themselves.

The colours we have are:

• Festive Candy
• Plum
• Sweet Ruby
• Angelic Pink
• Sugar Pink
• Jays Mauve
• Sugar Lilac
• Sugar Cool
• Fresh Red
• Jays Mint
• Angelic Green
• Jays Blue
• Jays Midnight 
• Festive Berry
• Red
• Suet Pearl
• Suet Silver
• Suet Gold
• Savoury Tropic
• Spring Orange
• Spring Sun

They are £7.99 each, including P&P, and already going fast. Price reduced for collection in store

Newsflash

It is with great sadness that I have to announce that Kitty Krafts shop will be closing it's doors for the final time on Sunday 28th August 2011.

We will be having a Stock Clearance Sale starting Saturday 5th August at noon with lots of bargains, so why not come along and have a look.

However, while the shop is closing, Kitty Krafts will become an online store, continuing to offer a range of quality products at competitive prices.  It will start off with a smaller range of products, and with your support, will grow over the coming weeks and months.

I will continue to teach, and have plans for retreats, workshops and online projects.

Thank you to those of you who have continued to support us over the years, and we look forward to seeing you again online, if not during our Sale.

September issue of Craft Stamper is now on sale

We now have the September issue of Craft Stamper on sale and, as always, it is packed full of great projects.

Among the articles this issue are:

Sweet and Sour, by Trish Latimer
Make stunning but extremely cost effective lemon juice backgrounds, with expert advice from Trish.

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, by Helen Chilton
Helen upcycles wooden stamp blocks into gorgeous Oz-themed home décor projects.

Doable Doodles, by Jean Franks Beck
Create bespoke backgrounds to match your favourite stamps, with Jean’s delightful doodling technique.

Stain Removal, by Jo Firth-Young
Jo combines Distress Stains and bleach, with stunning results.

Copic Collage, by Kim Costello
Get lots more from your Copic markers with Kim’s clever and arty ideas.

And this month’s free cover mount stamp is a gorgeous ivy leaf image, designed especially by Toodles and Binks.

All this and much, much more.

Making Cards for Special Occasions Special Edition now in stock

We now have the Making Cards for Special Occasions special edition in stock.

This is a very special one-off edition featuring:

• Wedding Cards
• Annversary cards
• Births and Christenings
• Congratulations etc

Their top designers were asked to create cards that are all based around an impressive collection of 32 FREE CRAFT PAPERS, which are included, and they have come up with some fantastic projects.

The unique paper designs are split into several themes to allow cards for WEDDINGS, ENGAGEMENTS, ANNIVERSARIES, BIRTHS, CHRISTENINGS and general CONGRATULATIONS to be created from the contents of this special edition magazine.

All this for only £4.95.

Making Cards magazine August issue now in stock

We now have the August issue of Making Cards magazine in stock, and what a great issue it is too!

Sarah Hurley is back as the Guest Designer this month and she has designed two sets of fun papers especially for Making Cards magazine.



Among the articles this month are:


 

• Tres chic
• A little bird told me
• Rocking Flowers
• Puppy pockets
• Pretty paisley and florals
• Back to school
• Bon Voyage

and there are 16 FREE craft papers with 3 themes, including the Nancy Watt collection.

Rumour has it ...

Rumour has it that if this rain keeps up, the event at Kinross is going to be renamed T in the Ark ...

Only one week left!

Only one week left of our Super Summer Sale. Still loads of bargains but they are going fast.

If you like ribbon we have Bazzill ribbon packs, £60+ for only £19.99.

If you're into stamping, Hero Arts stamp sets, £25+ for only £14.99.

All these and lots, lots more

August issue of Craft Stamper now in stock

The new issue of Craft Stamper is published today, and it's packed with lots of great articles.  Among them are:

Bee Creative, by Liesbeth Fidder
Liesbeth shows you some cool techniques for using hot beewax!

Decidedly Dotty, by Kim Costello
Don’t miss Kim’s incredible pointillist-style Copic colouring technique!

K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple Supplies), by Jean Franks-Beck
Jean shows you just how creative you can be with just the stamping basics.

Delicate Folds, by Debbie Dolphin
Debbie’s stunning book-card is perfect for that very special occasion.

Summer Breeze, by Jo Capper-Sandon
Capture the carefree feel of summer with Jo’s stylish card designs.

Free stamp from Polkadoodles

And there's lots more besides, all for only £4.25

Stay tuned for a big, big announcement ...

We have a big, big announcement coming soon.  Keep checking back for more details as all will be revealed soon

New Craft Stamper arrives Friday

The latest issue of Craft Stamper arrives on Friday.  Wonder if they'll go as quickly as last month.  Details to follow

There may be grey clouds ahead ...

It's dull and grey again, so why not brighten up your day with some bargains in our Super Summer Sale.
There are several One Time Only offers on just now as part of the sale, like a 90 metre pack of Bazzill ribbon for only£19.99 ! It usually sells for 75p per metre so it's a real bargain, and there are plenty more so why not come along and see for yourself

It's started!

Our Super Summer Sale has started and the special offers are going quickly.  Don't worry though, there's plenty left so you'll still be spoilt for choice when you come down

Calling Joanna Chalmers ...

This is a call to Joanna Chalmers.  Please let us know how you got on with your Moon Walk.  Not sure if it was piddling down that night in Edinburgh but hope you the walk wasn't too bad for you.

It's nearly here!

It's just over 23 hours till our Super Summer Sale starts tomorrow.  I'm programming the till today for all the price cuts, and there are loads of them.  Whether you are into scrapbooking or knitting, cardmaking or colouring, stamping or sticking, there's bound to be something for you.

See you soon :-)

Super Summer Sale starting soon

To make way for new stock arriving soon, our Super Summer Sale starts on Saturday 25th June 2011 at 10 a.m., running through to Sunday 10th July 2011 at 4 p.m.

You can save up to a massive 50% off the marked prices, the only exceptions being magazines and previously discounted items.

Bo Bunny, Tim Holtz, ProMarkers, Kanban, K & Co, Hero Arts, Inkadinkadoo, Dovecraft, American Crafts and many more, all at up to 50% off.

Made it, but knackered ...

Here's the proof of Christine doing the Race for Life. Poor thing was so knackered she had to lean on our sign for a rest before collecting her sponsorship money!

Closed for the day ... or two

Kitty Krafts will be closed on Wednesday 22nd June 2011 and Thursday 23rd June 2011, reopening at 10 a.m. Friday 24th June 2011.

Our apologies for any inconvenience

A walk in the moonlight

All the best to Joanna Chalmers, who is doing the Moon Walk in Edinburgh tomorrow night.  We hope your feet aren't too sore at the end of it all.

Racing For Life

Christine, one of our regular customers, is doing the Race For Life at Camperdown Park on Sunday 19th June.  She's been doing it for several years and always manages to raise money for this worthwhile cause.

If you'd like to sponsor her, and help her to help others, we have a sponsorship form available in the shop.

Do you want to get messy?

If you want to get messy while having fun why not book onto the Altered Canvas class on Saturday 18th June?  It's on from 11.30 a.m. - 1.30 p.m. and promises to be great fun.

We'll be 'altering' a canvas using lots of new materials and techniques in this fun but messy class.  All materials are provided as well as light refreshments, and all for just £20.

Call now to book your space as places are going fast.

Sunshine Alert!

What a gloriously sunny day it is today.  I'm sure everyone will be making the most of it.  Just remember to use some sunscreen or you'll all be looking like lobsters!

Stamping and Distressing Workshop

There will be a Stamping Distress Workshop on Sunday 19th June 2011, 11 a.m. - 4.30 p.m., at Kitty Krafts.

If you want to learn some new techniques and share an afternoon of fun with like minded crafters, why not give us a call to book your place now.

Spaces are limited but the fun won't be.

Full details are on the Stamping Distress Workshop page listed to the right.

Spaces are going fast so please call soon to book your place for a day of crafting fun.

Congratulations!

Congratulations to Kayleigh, our old Saturday girl. She gave birth to 6 lbs 11 oz Kaitlyn at 3 a.m. this morning.  Mother and baby are doing well, and father Scott can't stop grinning!

A Big Thank You!

A big thank you to everyone who came along to the Wedding Fair at Forbes of Kingennie Country Resort on Sunday. It was lovely to see you all, both regulars and new customers.

I'm pleased to say we were very busy, but absolutely knackered by the end of the day.

We look forward to seeing you again at the shop.

June 2011 issue of Craft Stamper now available

We have just received a delivery of the latest issue of Craft Stamper and it is full of great articles and features.

Amongst the articles this month are:

Push the Envelope, by Kate Crane
Kate shows you two ways to create gorgeous books from ordinary envelopes.

Make a Scene, by Lousette Ashton
Lousette’s stylish scene cards will bring out the interior designer in you!

Hair Raising, by Judy Laing
In a follow up to her skin colouring tutorial from last month, Judy shows you how to colour realistic-looking hair.

Leather Look, by Debbie Dolphin
Make Debbie’s incredibly convincing faux leather wallet – a great gift card holder for Father’s Day!


And features include:

Free Stamp Makes
This month’s free cover mount stamp is an adorable Toby Tumble image from Cuddly Buddly.

Stamping Contrasts
Four designers are asked to work with some beautiful Aspects of Design florals from The Stamp Man.

All these and lots, lots more in the June 2011 issue of Craft Stamper

Wedding Exhibition

We will be attending the Wedding Exhibition at Forbes of Kingennie Country Resort as one of the exhibitors.  The exhibition is on Sunday 15th May from midday to 4 p.m.

More details are on the Wedding Exhibition page listed to the right of our Home page.

We look forward to seeing you there on the day.

(Please note that the shop will be closed on that day, but will reopen at the usual time on Tuesday 17th)

The world is a lesser place without him

RIP Seve Ballesteros, one of the greatest true sportsmen of our time.  The world truly is a lesser place without him

Royal Wedding Shop

If you fancy doing a bit crafting once 'that' wedding is all over, we are open as usual.

We don't have any wedding cake but we do have lots of great products at a good price, so why not pop down and celebrate with a bit crafting

Yum!

We've got a new shop opened just along from us, the Butcher's Bakery. They do the most amazing cakes, and to keep it a balanced diet, they do a nice range of filled rolls, pies, sausage rolls etc.

Or if you prefer to make your own they have a great range of fresh meats, sausages etc, all locally sourced. 

If you're needing something for lunch at work, or just fancy a treat, why not pop in and see. They're open from 6.30 a.m. till 6.00 p.m.

Making Cards Special 2011, Cards for Men

Every card maker has a man in their life – whether a husband, a father, a brother a grandfather or a friend.

But the materials and ideas currently available for making greeting cards for men can be limited. So this Special Edition magazine is obviously called Making Cards for Men and is sure to be extremely popular and very much in demand.

This 2011 Special Edition of Making Cards for Men includes 32 sheets of Free Craft Papers, all of which feature a fresh and very different range of images for making cards for the man in your life - whether it’s for your husband, your son, your grandfather or a good friend. And this time there's a completely new source of artwork so they guarantee that the style of the Cards For Men and the matching 32 Free Craft Papers inside is quite different to anything you will have seen before in any UK craft magazine!

Making Cards Magazine, May issue now on sale

We now have the May issue of Making Cards magazine on sale.  It's full of great ideas such as: Wendy Martin's punched flower cards featuring a punched garden trellis are bright and pretty, perfect for friends and family; Jenny Higham's blooms in black and white are a stylish way to send a monochrome design.
Also in the May 2011 issue:

• Sweet homes
• Gorgeous for girls
• Handbags with hidden messages
• Pretty poppies
• Up in the air
• Down on the ground
• 16 FREE craft papers with 3 themes

Don't delay, they're going fast!

Easter Weekend

If you are looking for an escape from all those chocolate eggs, why not pop down to Kitty Krafts.  We're open as usual over the weekend, and you're always sure of a warm welcome.

Kitty Krafts Blog goes mobile

We now have a Mobile Optimised site for anyone looking at us on their mobile phone, or other mobile device.

Just put our blog address in as usual and it'll take you to the mobile site.  You can still go to the full site if you want by following the link at the bottom of the mobile screen.

If you are into your technology and have a Nokia you can use the QR Code below to take you to the site.

Have fun folks.

The wheels don't always go round and round ...

Apologies to anyone who may have been here first thing this morning.  We found the car had a flat tyre when we went to leave for the shop and it took about an hour to put the spacesaver on and then get the puncture repaired, then the wheel refitted.  Just wish my spare tyre went flat as easily!

Well done though to Kwikfit in Forfar though, they sorted everything out as soon as the wheel was taken in to them for repair.

And to all those who throw screws away, stick them in the bin, instead of leaving them for otheres to drive over!

New Items In Stock

We now have a New Items in Stock page for you to browse.  We'll be posting brief details of the new stock as we get it, just so you know what's coming in.

It'll be updated regularly so it's always worth dropping in for another look.

May Issue of Craft Stamper Now On Sale

For all those of you who are into stamping, or who are simply 'Stamp Curious', the latest issue of Craft Stamper is now on sale, and it's packed full of excellent features and articles.

Amongst the Projects covered are:

On Tape, by Rachel Jackson
Learn a stunning tape transfer technique with Rachel’s informative step-by-step tutorial.

You’ve Got Mail, by Kate Crane
Spice up your correspondence with Kate’s stunning mail art designs.

In a Bind, by Susie Jefferson
Create your own beautiful hand-bound books with Susie’s in-depth tutorial.

Lovely in Lavender, by Michelle Wilson
Combine cooking and craft with Michelle’s gorgeous lavender flavoured gifts.

NEW! Sheena’s Stamping Solutions: Distress Ink Colouring, by Sheena Douglass
The first in a new series by talented stamp artist Sheena Douglass, packed with stamping hints and tips.

NEW! One Layer Wonders, by Joanne Wardle
The fi rst in a new series of articles from Joanne, focussing on popular one layer cards.

Stamps to Die For, by Lousette Ashton
Lousette combines Nestabilities dies with complementary stamps in these stylish and sophisticated makes.

Vintage Garden, by Kim Costello
Kim shows you how to get more from crafting with sketches.

Amongst the Features are:

Free Stamp Makes
This month’s free cover mount stamp is a charming and quirky hot air balloon mini set, by Imagine That…

Stamping Contrasts
This month we asked four designers to try out new Karantha moulding mat designs from Craftynotions.

Stamping for Scrapbookers, by Morag Cutts
In our regular feature, Morag steps you through a stunning faux rust technique.

Sheena Douglass Competition
Win some gorgeous A Little Bit Sketchy stamps by Sheena Douglass, worth over £250.

Idea Gallery: Spring
Our regular gallery is packed with inspiration for springtime.

Masterclass: Book Pages, by Hels Sheridan
Incorporating old text into your crafting is all the rage – Hels shows you four interesting ways to add book pages to your projects.

Stamping with… Script, by Isabelle Norris
Our regular feature looks at using common stamp types creatively – this month, Isabelle makes some beautiful vintage cards using script stamps.

Designer’s Palette, by Rachel Jackson
This regular feature looks at combining colours effectively in your stamped projects.

All these and much, much more.

The passing of a screen legend

So sorry to hear of Elizabeth Taylor's death.  May she rest in peace

A Waxing By Any Other Name

Yes, it actually went ahead.  Ross was waxed by Laura-Ann, and a very good job she made of it too.  The only disappointing thing was that he didn't yelp more when she was pulling the strips off!

As he'd promised to get more than his legs done if he raised more in sponsorship, he had both legs waxed and his back.  As you'll see from the pictures he was quite hairy at the beginning, but was most definitely not by the end.

Thank you to everyone who sponsored Ross, and for anyone who still wants to sponsor him his online sponsor page is

http://my.rednoseday.com/waxross

 Even £1 can make a difference.

 

Today's The Day!

Today's the day, only a few hours till Ross gets waxed.  Have heard he's likely to be on his own as the Wave 102 presenter who was to be joining him has been in a car accident.  Some people will do anything to avoid being waxed!  Being serious, we hope he is better soon.


If you can't make it down you can still sponsor Ross on

http://my.rednoseday.com/waxross

 Every pound helps.  Thank you

Sponsor Ross On-line

If you can't make it along on the day you can sponsor Ross on-line. There's a special page set up for you.

Just go to: http://my.rednoseday.com/waxross

It all goes towards helping someone less fortunate, even £1 can make a difference.

Thank you

Great News!

We've just had some great news!

Curves has joined us in raising money for the Sponsored Wax happening this Friday, 18 March, for Red Nose Day.  Sponsorship forms are now available in Kitty Krafts, Bladez, and Curves, as well as Tong Dynasty, all in Panmurefield Village.

Red Nose Day Countdown for Ross

Counting the days till I get waxed. The ladies sponsoring me are taking altogether too much pleasure in saying how much it's going to hurt!   Painkillers anyone?

Making Cards April Issue now on sale

The April issue of Making Cards magazine has now arrived and is full of great articles.

• Cute bunny cards by Deborah Willis

• Easter cards featuring images from the Forever Friends range by Jenny Higham

• Sarah McCrossan has some beautiful stamped designs, ideal for this time of year.

• Dee Paramour’s bright designs feature lots of elements for baking

Vintage birdcages and chandeliers are among the other popular themes elsewhere in this issue.

Sadists wanted!

Come on ladies, where's your sadistic side? The more money you pledge the more Ross will be waxed on Red Nose Day.  The beautician has plenty of wax so no part of him will be safe, so long as you pledge enough money.

There will be pictures posted after the event so if you can't make it along on the day you'll still be able to enjoy seeing him suffer, all in the name of charity!  If we can, there will also be a video so you'll be able to hear the screams and maybe see him make a bid for freedom too.  Security will be posted though so once it starts he is there till the end.

It's all happening at Bladez Hair & Beauty, Panmurefield Village, 1.00 p.m. - 2.30 p.m. Come along and join in the fun.

Sponsorship forms are available in Kitty Krafts and Bladez Hair & Beauty

Wave 102 Competition Winners

Congratulations to the winners of our Wave 102 competition.  You will have received your emails telling you of your success.

The winners were Christine McDonald and Emma Colville.  Well done both of you.

Craft Stamper April issue available now

Carve a Niche, by Rachel Jackson
Rachel transforms an old, unloved book into a stunning piece of art.

Stamp, Stitch and Stuff, by Helen Chilton
Try your hand at stamping onto hand-dyed fabric, with Helen’s inspiring tutorial.

The Midas Touch, by Isabelle Norris
Hints and tips on using luscious Inka Gold, from Isabelle.

Really Tweet, by Jean Hardy
Make Jean’s delightful miniature birdhouse to adorn your home.

In Parentheses, by Katy Fox
Katy shows you how to ‘stamp’ using embossing folders and paint.

Painting the Flowers, by Joanna Sheen
Get ready for spring with this cute House Mouse card design.

Concertina Collage, by Kate Crane
Make gorgeous alcohol-inked backgrounds with Kate’s helpful hints and tips.

Red Sky at Night, by Jo Firth-Young
Celebrate the beauty of nature with Jo’s pretty painted mini book project.

Green Eyed Monster, by Kate Bentley
Make Kate’s cute little monster from dyed and stamped fabric.

Floating Fronts, by Joanne Wardle

Make eye-catching 3D cards with Joanne’s helpful tutorial.

Digital Diversity, by Kim Costello
Kim shows you that digi stamping can be much more than just characters to colour in.

Beautiful Beads, by Lousette Ashton
Lousette shares some great ways to add dimension to work with seed and micro beads.

On the Cover, by Hels Sheridan
Get more from your free cover stamps with this colourful wall hanging from Hels.

Terrific Tiles, by Sara Naumann
Make Sara’s teeny wearable artworks from Scrabble tiles.

Pack It In, by Linda Elbourne
Linda’s fabulous altered suitcase and book is ideal for journaling on the go.

Anyone for Tea?, by Morag Cutts
Make Morag’s fun and quirky Alice in Wonderland themed table centrepiece.


FEATURES

Free Stamp Makes
This month’s free cover mount stamp is a pretty, delicate butterfly designed for us by Chocolate Baroque.

Stamping Contrasts
Four designers are challenged to work their magic on some stunning vintage typewriter stamps this month.

Craft Dragon Competition
Win an ImPress multi-crafting tool and accessories worth over £400!

Idea Gallery: Framed
Our regular gallery is packed with things that are framed!

Stamping for Scrapbookers, by Kim Woods
In our regular feature, Kim shows you a stunning technique combining embossing powder and foiling.

Stamping with…Hearts, by Gail Milburn
Our regular feature looks at using common stamp types creatively – this month, Gail shows you four clever ways to get more from the humble heart stamp.

Masterclass: Joseph’s Coat, by Trish Latimer
Trish shows four variations on the striking and vibrant Joseph’s Coat technique.

Designer’s Palette, by Lousette Ashton
This regular feature looks at combining colours effectively in your stamped projects.

Felix is in the building!

Felix has decided to come into the shop today to help set the competition questions.

 Once he's had his lunch he'll be getting me to post the questions for him. It's better that way as he gets distracted by the mouse! Watch this space ...

Alternative craft room anyone?

Have just found a company selling what they call Micro Lodges.  They look ideal for a little craft room, and are probably cheaper than building an extension, or moving to a larger house.

Pop over to www.microlodge.co.uk to have a look.

The Great Escape!

It's good to be back at the shop today knowing that there are two kittens at home, busy wrecking the place.

Mollie, the grey, got out on Sunday night.  She and her sister, Millie, are both house cats, but she is in season for the first time and Nature called so off she went.

Hours of searching without any result followed, only for her to be found hiding under a car just across the road late last night.  She seems to be none the worse for wear, although our tomcat wasn't too keen on her scent last night so a trip to the Vet's is imminent.  We'd rather not be surrogate grandparents in 9 weeks time if we can help it!

Thank you to everyone who was looking for her, it is very much appreciated

The Titchy Terrors at rest

Most of the time Mollie and Millie, henceforth known as the Titchy Terrors, are tearing around like mad things.  Sometimes though, both Felix and us get some peace and quiet when they need to rest.  They look so angelic when sleeping, but they are far from it, as Felix can testify.

Grunge can be cute too ... or is it Tim who's cute?

The trip to Birmingham was a great success, even if the journey back was a nightmare.  What with roadworks, diversions and hellish weather it took about 3 - 4 hours longer than going down.

But the Workshop with Tim Holtz and Dyan Reaveley was excellent.  They are both so friendly and informative, happy to share their knowledge.

Here are pictures of the projects we were all doing.

Watch this space for future Workshops here!

Kitty Krafts goes South

We are off to Birmingham for a flying visit. There is a special Tim Holtz Workshop on Saturday morning so we are popping down for that. It does mean that the shop will have to remain closed that day, but we will be open again on Sunday at midday with a one day only 10% off promotion.

Keep watching this space for details of the classes that will follow from the Workshop

Felix has new sisters

Millie

Now that Felix has finished convalescing after being hit by a car last year we decided to get him a little sister from the Cat's Protection League.  Only problem was there were two kittens and I couldn't decide which one to take, so ended up with both.

Mollie

They are called Mollie (the lighter one) and Millie (the darker one).  They are typical kittens, into everything, and driving Felix, and us, crazy at times.  But we wouldn't be without them now and I think Felix quite likes having them around sometimes too.

Tired out after playing

Their favourite 'toy' was the Christmas tree.  They spent many an hour playing in it, so much so that it looked decidedly bedraggled by the time it was taken down.  Anyone who says artificial trees don't shed hasn't had kittens!

There will be more pictures in the coming months as they continue to grow and wreck our flat!

Felix sitting amidst the contents of the rubbish bag after it had been kittened!

It's official

It's official. The Grumpy Old Git, aka Ross, is officially a year older today.  We were going to have a cake but the Fire Brigade said no on the grounds of public safety.  Seems so many candles constitutes a fire hazard!

Unbaked Yeast Rolls

Unbaked Yeast Rolls Those of you who have animals will probably appreciate this the most. It is a story that is hilarious in itself and the person who wrote it is a good writer and made the story even better. Enjoy... We have a fox terrier by the name of Jasper.  He came to us in the summer of 2001 from the fox terrier rescue program.  For those of you who are unfamiliar with this type of adoption, imagine taking in a 10 year old child about whom you know nothing and committing to doing your best to be a good parent. Like a child, the dog came with his own idiosyncrasies.  He will only sleep on the bed, on top of the covers, nuzzled as close to my face as he can get without actually performing a French kiss on me. Lest you think this is a bad case of 'no discipline,' I should tell you that Perry and I tried every means to break him of this habit, including locking him in a separate bedroom for several nights.  The new door cost over $200

But I digress. Five weeks ago we began remodelling our house.  Although the cost of the project is downright obnoxious, it was 20 years overdue AND it got me out of cooking Thanksgiving for family, extended family, and a lot of friends that I like more than family most of the time. I was assigned the task of preparing 124 of my famous yeast dinner rolls for the two Thanksgiving feasts we did attend. I am still cursing the electrician for getting the new oven hooked up so quickly.  It was the only appliance in the whole darn house that worked, thus the assignment.

I made the decision to cook the rolls on Wed evening to reheat Thurs am. Since the kitchen was freshly painted, you can imagine the odor.  Not wanting the rolls to smell like Sherwin Williams #586, I put the rolls on baking sheets and set them in the living room to rise for a few hours.  Perry and I decided to go out to eat, returning in about an hour.  The rolls were ready to go in the oven. It was 8:30 PM.  When I went to the living room to retrieve the pans, much to my shock, one whole pan of 12 rolls was empty.  I called out to Jasper and my worst nightmare became a reality.  He literally wobbled over to me. He looked like a combination of the Pillsbury dough boy and the Michelin Tire man wrapped up in fur.  He groaned when he walked.  I swear even his cheeks were bloated. I ran to the phone and called our vet.  After a few seconds of uproarious laughter, he told me the dog would probably be okay; however, I needed to give him Pepto Bismol every 2 hours for the rest of the night.  God only knows why I thought a dog would like Pepto Bismol any more than my kids did when they were sick.  Suffice it to say that by the time we went to bed the dog was black, white and pink.  He was so bloated we had to lift him onto the bed for the night. We arose at 7:30 and as we always do first thing, put the dog out to relieve himself.  Well, the dog was as drunk as a sailor on his first leave.  He was running into walls, falling flat on his butt and most of the time when he was walking, his front half was going one direction and the other half was either dragging the grass or headed 90 degrees in another direction. He couldn't lift his leg to pee, so he would just walk and pee at the same time.  When he ran down the small incline in our back yard he couldn't stop himself and nearly ended up running into the fence. His pupils were dilated and he was as dizzy as a loon.  I endured another few seconds of laughter from the vet (second call within 12 hours) before he explained that the yeast had fermented in his belly and that he was indeed drunk. He assured me that, not unlike most binges we humans go through, it would wear off after about 4 or 5 hours, and to keep giving him Pepto Bismol. Afraid to leave him by himself in the house, Perry and I loaded him up and took him with us to my sister's house for the first Thanksgiving meal of the day. My sister lives outside of Muskogee on a ranch, (10 to 15 minute drive). Rolls firmly secured in the trunk (124 less 12) and drunk dog leaning from the back seat onto the console of the car between Perry and I, we took off. Now I know you probably don't believe that dogs burp, but believe me when I say that after eating a tray of risen unbaked yeast rolls, DOGS WILL BURP. These burps were pure Old Charter.  They would have matched or beat any smell in a drunk tank at the police station.  But that's not the worst of it. Now he was beginning to fart and they smelled like baked rolls.  God strike me dead if I am not telling the truth!  We endured this for the entire trip to Karen's, thankful she didn't live any further away than she did. Once Jasper was firmly placed in my sister's garage with the door locked, we finally sat down to enjoy our first Thanksgiving meal of the day.  The dog was the topic of conversation all morning long and everyone made trips to the garage to witness my drunken dog, each returning with a tale of Jasper's latest endeavor to walk without running into something.  Of course, as the old adage goes, 'what goes in must come out' and Jasper was no exception. Granted if it had been me that had eaten 12 risen, unbaked yeast rolls, you might as well have put a concrete block up my behind, but alas a dog's digestive system is quite different from yours or mine.  I discovered this was a mixed blessing when we prepared to leave Karen's house.  Having discovered his 'packages' on the garage floor, we loaded him up in the car so we could hose down the floor. This was another naive decision on our part.  The blast of water from the hose hit the poop on the floor and the poop on the floor withstood the blast from the hose.  It was like Portland cement beginning to set up and cure. We finally tried to remove it with a shovel.  I (obviously no one else was going to offer their services) had to get on my hands and knees with a coarse brush to get the remnants off of the floor.  And as if this wasn't degrading enough, the darn dog in his drunken state had walked through the poop and left paw prints all over the garage floor that had to be brushed too. Well, by this time the dog was sobering up nicely so we took him home and dropped him off before we left for our second Thanksgiving dinner at Perry's sister's house. I am happy to report that as of today (Monday) the dog is back to normal both in size and temperament.  He has had a bath and is no longer tricolor. None the worse for wear I presume.  I am also happy to report that just this evening I found 2 risen unbaked yeast rolls hidden inside my closet door. It appears he must have come to his senses after eating 10 of them but decided hiding 2 of them for later would not be a bad idea.  Now, I'm doing research on the computer as to:  'How to clean unbaked dough from the carpet.'

And how was your day?

Mad March Sale ... in February a great success!

Our Mad March Sale ... in February over the weekend was a great success. Thank you to everyone who dropped in.

Keep watching this space for news of other great events.

Craft Stamper March Issue now on sale at Kitty Krafts

The new Craft Stamper magazine is available now at Kitty Krafts.  It's full of great articles and features

FEATURES
Free Stamp Makes
This month’s free cover mount stamp is a fabulously versatile open flower design, created especially by The Artistic Stamper.

Stamping Contrasts
Four designers are challenged to work their magic on some delightful vintage sewing stamps this month.

Stamping for Scrapbookers, by Michelle Mogford-Jackson
In this regular feature, Michelle shows how to create fabulous painted background paper.

Idea Gallery: Women

This regular gallery is packed with projects inspired by images of women.

Stamping with…Alphabets, by Kate Bentley
Regular feature looks at using common stamp types creatively – this month, get more from those neglected alphabet stamps with Kate’s clever ideas.

Masterclass: Microscope Slides, by Anneliese Bates
Find out what a stunning and versatile addition to your artwork microscope slides can be, with Anneliese’s inspiring ideas.

Designer’s Palette, by Isabelle Norris
This regular feature looks at combining colours effectively in your stamped projects.


PROJECTS
Crinkled Chic, by Jean Franks-Beck
Make beautiful hand-dyed shabby chic trim with Jean’s fabulous tutorial.

Buzzing for Beeswax, by Hels Sheridan
Hels shows you how to incorporate fabulously tactile beeswax into your collage work.

Remember the Good Times, by Helen Chilton
Make stunning layered tags and a fabulous way to display them in Helen’s pretty project.

Salt Rocks, by Trish Latimer
Trish adds ordinary rock salt to her work to make amazingly textured surfaces and embellishments.

A Rose for Mum, by Lousette Ashton
Lousette shows different ways to use acetate, with these beautiful Mother’s Day card designs.

You’ve Been Framed, by Kate McNicholas
Make Kate’s stunning altered frame, packed with gorgeous details.

Paper Blending, by Liesbeth Fidder
Grab your background stamps and scraps and try out Liesbeth’s stunning technique.

Birds in the Trees, by Jean Hardy
Make the most of versatile chipboard shapes with Jean’s beautiful nature themed hanging.

Layer It Up, by Kate Crane
Take your journal pages to the next stage with Kate’s gorgeous painted background techniques.

Bless the Flowers, by Kim Costello
Make Kim’s pretty card and seed packet set for a keen gardener.

Back to Basics: Mounting Unmounted Stamps, by Rachel Jackson
Rachel guides you through the basics of mounting your unmounted stamps and gives you a ton of helpful tips along the way.

Scents of Spring, by Michelle Marshall
Make a delightful handmade candle – the perfect Mother’s Day gift.
Family Tray, by Audrey Tan
Take your scrapbooking off the page and onto the wall, with Audrey’s eyecatching printer’s tray.

Mixed Media Masterboard, by Rachel Jackson
Add rich texture to your masterboard backgrounds, with Rachel’s stunning mixed media version.

Wonderful Woodgrain, by Kim Costello
Kim shows you four fantastic ways to create woodgrain texture on your cards.

... and lots, lots more!

Getting closer

Our Mad March Sale starts Saturday 5th February. Don't be late!

We're so excited that we can't wait any longer to have our sale, so we're having our Mad March Sale in February!  In fact it's driven us so mad we are knocking 30% off everything* in the shop.  Yes, 30%!

If you want a 99p sheet of scrapbook paper, or a £200 die-cutting machine, it's 30% off.  I know it's mad, but we're just so glad to see the sun again that we've decided to cut all our prices.

Sale starts 10 a.m. Saturday, until 4 p.m. Sunday, so don't hang around as things will go quickly



 *Exclusions apply. Previously discounted items, magazines, classes and workshops are excluded

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It's coming ...

And no, I don't mean Christmas ...

Royal Mail clearing backlog of mail (Ross' Rant)

At long last we are starting to get our backlog of mail.  Thank you to all of you who sent us Christmas cards, we have just received them.

There was even a Recorded Delivery letter amongst today's post that was posted on the 9th December. We also had a parcel last week that was posted on 8th November which had taken 2 months to arrive.  Wouldn't have been so bad but it was stock for Christmas.  A bit late now! If that is the standard we can expect from the Royal Mail as they "improve" the system, then bring back the Pony Express!

And I don't care if the big boss at Royal mail has apologised in one of the local papers. I don't care if they have been shipping managers in from London, Wales and Aberdeen to try and sort it out.  I don't care if they are grovelling at the door.  If we gave the same service we'd be closing the doors as customers would have gone elsewhere.

So, Royal Mail bosses.  You've apologised, now get on with sorting out the mess you've made.  You still have the monopoly on mail delivery, for now, but keep this up and you'll have all the other private companies bidding for it.  And you know how the Government is always looking for ways to save money ...

Making Cards magazine, February issue now on sale

This month brings an abundance of themes and techniques for you to try your hand at. Themes include flowers, birds and cupcakes using techniques such as stamping, embossing and inking.

Take a look at Dee Paramour’s fabulous flowers, where she has incorporated several different styles of flowers to form bright and bold focal points. They will brighten anyone’s day if it’s a little gloomy outside!

The month of February brings Valentine’s Day; however card designs for this occasion can also be used for romantic events like anniversaries and weddings. It’s all about how you adapt them to suit your recipient!

Take a look at Stephanie’s Clever Cards in the February issue. Her 3-dimensional designs are catered for Valentines but as they use pretty colours and papers you could adapt them for birthdays too.

And make sure you check out Nancy’s free gifts this month, and have a go at making some beautiful paper roses. Nancy is always ready to answer your crafting queries on her Nancy’s Know How page so make sure you write or email us.

Check out our other regular features for all the latest from the world of cardmaking in New to You and Bits and Buy.

All this and 16 free pages of card making papers!

Craft Stamper February Issue is now on sale

 The February issue of Craft Stamper is on sale now, full of intersting articles and hints and tips.  It has features on:

Free Stamp Makes
This month’s free cover mount stamp is a fabulously grungy pocket watch design, created especially by Stampattack.

Stamping Contrasts
Four designers are challenged to work their magic on charming springtime stamps.

Stamping for Scrapbookers, by Isabelle Norris
In this regular feature, Isabelle shows you how to create stunning polymer clay embellishments.

Idea Gallery: Romance
This regular feature is packed with love-themed ATCs this month.

Designer’s Palette, by Rachel Jackson
This regular feature looks at combining colours effectively in your stamped projects.

Masterclass: Pearl Powders, by Kate Bentley
Dig out your pearl pigments and try Kate’s four fabulous ideas.

Stamping with…Trees, by Anneliese Bates
Our regular feature looks at using common stamp types creatively – this month, Anneliese creates seasonal cards with tree stamps.

There's all this and much more.  Grab your copy today!