A Washi tape challenge

| Elisabeth Hogarth Designs

Hello again.

Today, I am excited to share a recent project with you: a series of cards created entirely with washi tape. I challenged myself to craft without buying any new supplies during Lent. Instead, I am working with craft supplies I own, and the first of these is washi tape. The cards made will be sent to friends or donated to charity.

Washi tape has its roots in traditional Japanese papermaking techniques dating back to the 8th century when artisans crafted paper from natural fibres like bamboo, rice, and mulberry bark. Today, modern washi tape is manufactured using a combination of these natural fibres, resulting in a lightweight yet durable tape known for its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and easy tearability. This means you can work with washi in a variety of ways. Let me show you a few ideas:

First Set of Cards: Vintage Vibes and Floral Flourishes In the initial set, I aimed for a blend of vintage elegance and floral charm:

Vintage Card with Wide Washi Tape: I opted for a classic look using a wide roll of washi tape, capturing a timeless vintage design.

Arty Designs from Washi Tape Patchwork: Playing with angles and bold sentiments, I transformed washi tape patchwork into modern, artsy designs.

Floral Elements with Washi Tape Background: By layering washi tape to create backgrounds, I then added delicate floral motifs using die cuts for a touch of botanical beauty.

Here is a close-up tutorial of the first set of cards.

Second Set of Cards: Moving on to the next set, I experimented with textures and techniques using washi tape:

Twisted Ribbon Style with Bronze Washi Tape: Adding depth with bronze washi tape, I crafted a twisted ribbon effect for a touch of sophistication.

Woven Strips Effect: Playing with the versatility of washi tape, I created the effect of a woven strip by layering and arranging strips onto cardstock.

Bold “Hi” Cutout: Making a statement, I incorporated a bold “Hi” cutout into vibrant washi tape backgrounds. To add depth I glued two additional white layers together before adding the washi tape letters.

Innovative Use of Waste: Waste not, want not! I repurposed leftover washi tape scraps, crafting intricate layers and details for added visual interest.

Love-Themed Background with Sentiment Tag: Keeping it simple, I added backgrounds with love-themed washi tape, finishing with die-cut sentiment tags and my trademark sequins.

Paper Shadow Technique: Exploring paper shadowing, I added detail by incorporating washi tape along the base of the lettering before die-cutting and layering three cutouts together.

Here is the second video showing more of the techniques used in these cards:

Conclusion:

As you can see, there are endless ways to create cards with washi tape. I would love to know which of the techniques you tried so please tag me in your makes on social media. I used a wide range of crafting products. Please comment below if you have individual questions about certain products used.

Until next time, happy crafting!

Love Elisabeth xx

Introducing the All-New ‘Designer Series’ – ‘Through the Trees’ Edition”

| Elisabeth Hogarth Designs

Hello again…

I’m thrilled to share some exciting news with you – Craft Consortium has just launched its new ‘Through the Trees’ Designer Series, and it’s tailor-made to crafters of all abilities. This collection is a special collaboration with Melissa Lowry, the talented artist behind the charming ‘Over the Hedge’ designs. Picture whimsical animals and vibrant florals – it’s a delightful blend of sophistication and nostalgia.

What’s Inside the Pad:
The pad features 30 double-sided pages with a mix of patterned card stock, coordinating blanks, and toppers. It’s a thoughtfully curated collection that effortlessly complements Craft Consortium’s Essentials range – allowing you to buy all your crafting essentials in one place.


‘Through the Trees’ collection comes in two sizes: 12×12 and 6×6. Here are the links:


Curious to see more? I’ve put together a YouTube video that gives you a closer look at these papers and shares some project ideas. Check it out here: https://youtu.be/ho6ZUCRzdvY


I’ve had the pleasure of crafting with ‘Through the Trees,’ and it’s been a joy. The collection effortlessly lends itself to stylish projects, providing a touch of sophistication to every creation.


By choosing to shop directly with Craft Consortium, you’re not just getting quality supplies; you’re supporting a family business in the UK. And, if you join their Loyalty Scheme, you can start earning points with your very first order:

https://www.craftconsortium.com/loyalty

I am sure you will enjoy crafting with the Designer Series Craft Papers. Through the Trees is the first of many more glorious collections. If you need further inspiration then check out my social media pages and join Craft Consortium’s Offical Network on Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/groups/989114164562461/

Happy crafting!

Love Elisabeth xx

YOUTUBE –  https://www.youtube.com/c/ElisabethHogarthDesigns

FACEBOOK – https://www.facebook.com/Elisabeth.Hogarth.Designs/

INSTAGRAM – https://www.instagram.com/elisabethhogarthdesigns/

PINTEREST – https://www.pinterest.co.uk/elisabethhogarthdesigns/

ETSY – https://ehogarthdesigns.etsy.com


From Pause to Paper: Rediscovering Creativity in 2024

| Elisabeth Hogarth Designs

Hello again and happy New Year!

You might have noticed my absence from the paper crafting scene lately. Let me take a moment to explain. The whirlwind of the festive season coupled with a temporary loss of my crafting mojo had me stepping back. But you know what they say—sometimes, a break is just what we need to recharge our creative batteries.

For me, it was not just about keeping up with the festivities but also navigating the bustling world of social media. After five solid years (including Covid time), the pressure to share, create, and inspire became a tad overwhelming. So, I decided to hit pause. In these past few weeks, I found solace in the simple joys of life – rediscovering my love of books, baking old family recipes, home decor projects, gardening, and most importantly, cherishing quality moments with my family.

For me, a cluttered workspace often mirrors a cluttered mind. So, I took this downtime to declutter and reorganize my craft space. This was particularly important because I had to downsize again! There’s something therapeutic about letting go of old stock and creating a fresh canvas for new inspirations. By simplifying and decluttering, I found my thoughts flowing more freely. Remember, sometimes the best way to reignite that crafting passion is to take a step back and clear the slate.

As we usher in the new year, I’m thrilled to introduce an exciting new collection from Katy Sue Designs! Mark your calendars for Friday, 12th January, as this collection makes its debut on Create and Craft TV.

For those of you looking to jumpstart your crafting journey or overcome a creative block, try these simple cardmaking kits. These kits are not just about creating beautiful cards; they’re about stimulating your creativity. Think of your brain as a muscle; it needs regular exercise and challenges.

There’s something magical about finding inspiration in unexpected places. Whether it’s a vibrant colour palette, a unique design element, or a heartwarming sentiment. I hope my first crafting projects of 2024 will inspire you to get paper crafting!

Thank you for joining me on this paper-crafting journey. When the time is right for me, I will be creating new videos and sharing more via social media.

Until next time, happy crafting!

Love Elisabeth xx

HAPPY 10TH BIRTHDAY TO CRAFT CONSORTIUM LTD!

| Elisabeth Hogarth Designs

Hello again.

I am a proud member of the Craft Consortium Ltd Design Team, and this week, I am thrilled to be a part of their celebration of 10 years in business. Craft Consortium is a family-owned company, led by Terry, Sue, and their son, Nigel Lennon, with their offices located in Derby, in the heart of England. They are known for supplying a wide range of high-quality papers, stamps, and embellishments, and their commitment to customer service is exceptional. My journey with Craft Consortium began when I fell in love with their classic “Tell the Bees” collection. If you follow my blog posts, you can trace my crafting journey from those early projects to my current role on their design team.

In honour of this significant milestone, Craft Consortium has generously provided each design team member with a complete collection to give away as prizes on our social media platforms. It’s their way of expressing gratitude to all their supporters and well-wishers over the years.

As for my giveaway, you can find it on both my Facebook and Instagram pages through these links:

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/Elisabeth.Hogarth.Designs/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/elisabethhogarthdesigns/

Please bear in mind that my giveaways close at midnight (UK time) on Sunday22nd October 2023. The winner will be announced on Monday the 23rd.

I am excited to offer the delightful “Little Robin Redbreast” collection, which happens to be one of my personal favourites, featuring illustrations by Clare Therese Gray. The prize includes everything you see in the top image below, and the lucky winner will also have the opportunity to join me in an online crafting session. Together, we will create a travel journal using this exquisite collection. You can find all the details on my Facebook page.

Throughout the years, I have had the pleasure of creating numerous projects using Craft Consortium products. If you are seeking inspiration, I invite you to explore my dedicated playlist on my YouTube Channel. You can also find my work showcased on Pinterest and my various social media platforms.

YOUTUBE –  https://www.youtube.com/c/ElisabethHogarthDesigns

FACEBOOK – https://www.facebook.com/Elisabeth.Hogarth.Designs/

INSTAGRAM – https://www.instagram.com/elisabethhogarthdesigns/

PINTEREST – https://www.pinterest.co.uk/elisabethhogarthdesigns/

For the latest updates and personalised recommendations, don’t forget to subscribe to this blog. Stay connected with me for crafting inspiration and much more!

You can also explore the wonderful work of my fellow Design Team members on their social media pages. Follow these links to see their unique styles and find inspiration. Plus be in with a chance of winning their favourite collections too.

Finally, to be a part of the Craft Consortium Official Network ( Facebook Group) follow this link

https://www.facebook.com/groups/989114164562461/?mibextid=oMANbw

Please join me in sending the team at Craft Consortium “happy birthday wishes” and continued success in the years ahead.

With love from

Elisabeth xx

BETTERPRESS AUTUMN THANKS

| Elisabeth Hogarth Designs

Hello again,

I treated myself to the autumnal plates from the new Spellbinders Betterpress range. I find these designs to be very versatile and easy to use. I enjoy using them with the cotton cardstock, however, I am also pleasantly surprised by the results achieved with kraft card and good quality coloured papers. I particularly enjoy working with the Ink Drops range from Craft Consortium.

To see how I created these different looks, watch my video. It will focus on the red “think happy thoughts” card but I will also share the other cards in more detail.

Happy crafting!

Love Elisabeth xx

BETTERPRESS LETTERPRESS CARDS

| Elisabeth Hogarth Designs

Hello again

I have been away from social media for a few weeks because I needed to recharge my batteries, garden, make jam and create some new projects just for me.

I treated myself to the new Spellbinders Betterpress Letterpress System because I felt that it was a tool that would enhance my skill set. I also love typography and lino prints so this style of artwork appealed to me.

I placed my order on the Spellbinders UK website, hoping the stock would be in the country. I was not in luck and patiently waited SIX weeks for the Betterpress to arrive! Their online chat system is also based in the USA so a word of warning when using this site – do not expect a fast response. The only advantage seems to be that the prices are set in pounds rather than dollars. Other than that, it is no different to ordering from the US site.

Having said all that – it was worth the six-week wait and I have been delighted with the results I achieved using Betterpress.

I filmed my first session using this system and talk through the different elements within the starter pack in my YouTube video. But here is a quick explanation of the Spellbinders Betterpress system.

Letterpress Printing is an old art form of relief printing using raised metal plates. The plate is then inked up and pressed onto the paper/card. It can then be repeated as many times as you like. It reminds me of John Boy Walton setting up the rollers of his printing press before printing the community newspaper. Spellbinders have made this art form more accessible to crafters because you only need to use the table top “platen” and “chase” which is available in their starter pack. They are already selling beautiful decorative plates and specialist ink and the whole system can be rollered through regular die-cutting machines (please read the Spellbinders website for full details and the list of compatible machines).

My first set of cards was made using the “Pressed Bouquet: plate. I wanted to try out one colour at a time so stuck to using a limited colour palette within each card. My trusted polychromo pencils came in handy too. (the first photo shows the very first print I made which is easily achievable)

I plan on trying different techniques with the Betterpress System and sharing the results with you via YouTube so remember to subscribe to my YouTube channel. Have you ever tried letterpress art? Or have any questions about the Spellbinders Betterpress system? Leave your thoughts and experiences in the comments below; I’d love to hear from you!

I found the products I used on the Amazon UK website at reasonable prices. DO check the lead times though before placing your orders. Let me know if you will be joining me on the Betterpress journey. It is going to be fun.

Best wishes

Elisabeth

SHOPPING LIST (WITH AFFILIATE LINKS)

Spellbinders BETTERPRESS Letterpress System (BP-001), White, ON https://amzn.to/3OzBLZ8

Spellbinders BetterPress Cotton Card Panels A2 Porcelain, White, ONE https://amzn.to/3KmG6fL

Spellbinders Always and Forever Sentiment Strips Betterpress Plate, Metal, ONE https://amzn.to/3Kl0opK

Spellbinders Pressed Bouquet Betterpress Plate, Metal, ONE https://amzn.to/3Ki203C

Faber-Castell F110012 Polychromos Colour Pencils Tin Of 12 & Faber-Castell Trio Sharpener Box GRIP 2001 Silver  https://amzn.to/43Mh4O0

Faber-Castell Creative Studio Watercolour Pad, A4, Acid Free Spiral Bound Paper, 190 GSM, 15 Sheets for Watercolour Paint, Pencils and Markers, Arts, Craft, Home and School https://amzn.to/3Kw4o78

Tsukineko Nocturne Versafine Clair Ink Pad, Synthetic Material, Black, 5.6 x 9.7 x 2.3 cm. https://amzn.to/3Kna3fs

Glad Press’n Seal – Value Size – 13m² (43.4m x 30cm) – 140 sq ft – Sealing Wrap

https://amzn.to/3qbldNJ

PORTRAIT OF A LADY – MINI TAG ALBUM

| Elisabeth Hogarth Designs

Hello again

Today, I am sharing some additional details for a classy mini album I created using the @Graphic45 Portrait of a Lady collection.

This formed part of a project made for a Brand Ambassador post for Graphic 45. The full video tutorial can be found on my YouTube channel

In addition, I wrote a pictorial blog post with a short reel for the official Graphic 45 blog which is a great resource for crafters of all abilities. This includes the instructions for the coordinating bag.

Fun Flap Card & DIY Bag Tutorial by Elisabeth

Here are the dimensions for the decorative panels and pages for the Portrait of A Lady Mini Album with matching tags.

FRONT AND INSIDE COVERS

4 PIECES – 4″ X 4 7/8″

SPINE

1 PIECE – 2″ X 4 7/8″

MAIN ALBUM PAGES TO STAMP

16 PIECES – 3 3/8″ X 4 3/8″

PRINTED PAPER – LOWER POCKET

8 PIECES – 3 3/8″ X 1 3/8″

PRINTER PAPER – BACK PANEL

8 PIECES – 3 1/4″ X 2 7/8″

ADDITIONAL TAGS FOR POCKETS – 4

8 LAYERS CUT FROM SMALLER TAG OF G45 SQUARE TAGS DIE SET

SMALL JOURNAL CARDS

4 – 3 1/8″ X 8 1/4″ SCORED IN MIDDLE

PRODUCTS USED AS IN MY VIDEO

Supply List – direct from the Graphic 45 website (USA)

https://g45papers.com/product/portrai… https://g45papers.com/product-categor… https://g45papers.com/product-categor… https://g45papers.com/product-categor… https://g45papers.com/product-categor… https://g45papers.com/product-categor…

Supply List – from Craft Stash UK (affiliate links)

Graphic 45 product page – https://tidd.ly/3FvOW8y

Creative Craft Stencil Brushes – https://tidd.ly/42lvwgu

Versafine Clair Inks – https://tidd.ly/3ZRaWTp

This pretty much covers everything in both the video and the reel. However, if you have further questions please leave me a question below.

Best wishes

Elisabeth xx

GRAPHIC 45 “LITTLE ONE” ALBUM IN A BOX

| Elisabeth Hogarth Designs

Hello again,

Today’s blog post includes the measurements for my latest Album in a Box which has been decorated with the adorable “Little One” 12×12 papers from Graphic 45.

The full tutorial can be found on my Youtube Channel.

BOX COVER

OUTSIDE COVER 5 1/4″ X 5 1/4″ TIMES 2

SPINE 5 1/4″ X 1 3/8″

BOX SIDES 5 1/4″ X 1 3/8″ TIMES 3

BOX CLOSURE SPINE 5 1/4″ X 1″

INSIDE COVER 4 7/8″ X 4 7/8″ TIMES 2

INSIDE CLOSURE SPINE 4 7/8″ X 1

INSIDE BOX SIDES 4 7/8″ X 1 3/4″ TIMES 3

PAGES 1/3/4/13/14 – 4 7/8″ X 3 3/8″ PLUS 4 7/8″ X 1 3/8″

PAGES 2/5/6/7/8/9/10/11/12/15/16 – 4 7/8″ X 4 7/8″

To see the video tutorial follow the link below:

Little One is a delightful collection to create with. Personally, I would use it for the glorious floral elements alone and I would definitely buy the coordinating patterns and solids to make the collection go further.

Until next time

Love Elisabeth xx

GRAPHIC 45 USA WEBSITE

https://g45papers.com/product-category/graphic-45-products/little-one/

GRAPHIC 45 FROM CRAFTSTASH UK (INCLUDES AFFILIATE LINK)

https://tidd.ly/3AEqjU4

COMPARING DIFFERENT ADHESIVE BRANDS FOR PAPER CRAFTING PROJECTS

| Elisabeth Hogarth Designs

Hello again

As promised in my previous blog: here are the findings of my little experiment to compare 8 branded adhesives that can be bought in the UK. I bought all of the bottles of PVA/EVA adhesives from Craft Stash UK. I will include the links at the bottom of this blog post. However, I have not been paid by Craft Stash to complete this experiment or recommend any of the brands. I conducted the experiment out of my own interest because I consider glue/adhesive to be an everyday crafting tool and I wanted to compare similar products from different companies.

I currently use Pinflair Bookbinding Glue for most of my card-making and paper-crafting projects so I chose products that would compare to this.

The products I chose to buy and test were: (the text in italic has been taken from the product packaging)

COLLAL BOOKBINDING MULTIPURPOSE GLUE (THIS IS NOT THE CLEAR VERSION) multi-purpose pva. strong glue. transparent when dry – remains flexible. moisture-proof. solvent-free. intended for bookbinding,scrapbooking, binding agent for paints

COSMIC SHIMMER SPECIALIST ACRYLIC GLUE specialist acrylic glue, new extra strength formula, dries clear, extra bonding agents. suitable for glitter, card, paper

CRAFT STASH NON TOXIC MULTI-PURPOSE GLUE general multi purpose glue

HONEY DOO CRAFTS STICKY NON TOXIC WATER BASED GLUE sticky glue ideal for sticking paper, card and embellishments.

PINFLAIR GLUE IT BOOKBINDING GLUE strong paper crafting glue, bonds paper and cardboard and fibrous products quickly. box construction, paper flower making

PINK FROG NEUTRAL PH ADHESIVE reversible EVA adhesive. Neutral PH adhesive, free of plasticisers, reversible with water, suitable for paper, board, framing, collage, crafts, bookbinding

SIZZIX EXPRESS GLUE quick drying, tacky, fine tip nozzle for precise application, dries clear

TONIC CRAFT TACKY GLUE super tacky PVA, extra fine precision tip

ANITA’S TACKY PVA GLUE arts, crafts, dries clear, colourless, precision tip, bonding paper, card, non-washable fabric, wood craft foam

*The prices were based on the online price that I paid either on Craft Stash UK or directly from the company.

I used the same Graphic 45 papers and card stock throughout the testing process and where possible compared like for like.

I was unable to properly compare the Pink Frog Neutral PH Adhesive because the larger bottle meant the product came out rapidly. I will decant the glue to a smaller bottle and test the product fairly. Then update this blog post.

I was unable to properly compare Anita’s Tacky PVA Glue because it was an older product and once opened found to be too thick to compare like for like. Again these findings will be updated at a later date.

The video for this experiment can be found on my YouTube Channel

This table shows my findings. Please remember these are my personal thoughts. I have tried to compare like for like and I have not been paid by any of these brands to promote their products.

pdf-of-glues-adhesives-tableDownload

In conclusion, I believe you get what you pay for. If you are crafting daily, it is worth spending a reasonable amount on adhesive because it does affect the overall finished result. Often these products will last longer because you need to use less.

I will continue to use all of the products in this experiment. This may take several months and I will write a further comparison and conclusion to this blog post.

Listed below are the products I used, The links to Craft Stash are affiliated but this does not mean I recommend them individually. If you choose to buy via these links then I will earn a few pennies on the sales. This supports me in making these free videos and blog posts

Collall Bookbinding Glue 100ml. https://tidd.ly/3YQGO9l

Cosmic Shimmer Dries Clear Glue 30ml. https://tidd.ly/3JnziNn

Sizzix Making Essentials Express Glue | 120ml. https://tidd.ly/3n10g5V

Cosmic Shimmer Dries Clear Glue in Squeezable Tube | 60ml https://tidd.ly/3mW48Fv

CraftStash PVA Craft Glue 120ml https://tidd.ly/3JKAYSK

Pink Frog Crafts EVA Glue | 225ml. https://tidd.ly/3JlIpyl

These products can be found directly from the companies that sell them.

HoneyDoo Crafts Sticky Glue 120ml https://www.honeydoocrafts.co.uk/ourshop/prod_6858064-Sticky-Glue-120ml.html

Pinflair Glue-It https://www.pinflair.co.uk/adhesives-and-tools/adhesives/glue-it-bookbinding-glue

Tonic Craft Tacky Glue https://www.tonic-studios.co.uk/collections/precision/products/tonic-studios-adhesives-craft-tacky-glue-240ml-pva-glue-4487e

I would be interested to know – how useful you found the video and blog post. Would you like me to review other crafting tools and accessories? Please comment below.

Until next time.

Elisabeth xx