Docr april 2016

Your home for all things craft

CELEBRATE!Create a show-stopping exploding box card, complete with paper cake and hidden surprise

Hand lettering how-to

Scrapbooking: DIY wedding album

Customise invites with Artiste pens

Remember your special day the crafty way

HEAT TOOL SPECIAL

38+

PROJECT

S

WIN!A crafternoon

at docrafts

GREAT GIVEAWAYS WORTH 1000

Make two different designs from one 12 x 12" paper pack!ORIGAMI LAMPSHADES

MARBLED journalCover notebooks and more in a beautiful, unique pattern

Issu

e 69

4.

99 $

9.99 0

4

977

2050

4940

09>

MAKE IT

PERSONALMAKE IT

PERSONALC A R D S & E N V E L O P E S | S T A M P S

S E N T I M E N T S | E M B E L L I S H M E N T SA N D M U C H M O R E

C R E A T E S T U N N I N G S T A T I O N E R Y

OUT NOW De

sig

n O

bje

ctiv

es

Ltd

.

As you might have guessed from our cover, were all about the celebrations this month. And for good reason: April 2O16 marks two decades of docrafts. Thats right, DO is the big 2-O. As part of this weve organised even more giveaways on our blog (docrafts.com/blog) throughout April. Think of it as a crafty birthday bonanza, if you will.

In the meantime, though, pop the kettle on and settle down with the current issue.

I promise its a goodun. See you next month,

Sarah Sarah Sarah Sarah

Happy Birthday,docrafts!

Carly Stalker Marketing Design Manager

The legs behind p5Os stamped trainers shot

complete with matching pyjama bottoms

Sarah Gane EditorCaught mid-craft behind the scenes on a photoshoot!

Lorna Slessor Sub EditorFar happier having her hands photographed than her face

Jesse Wild

Freelance Photographer

The man behind the cameraRachel Smith Designer

Enjoying a spot of tea and cake away from the of ce!

Joe Schneider Video & Photography Assistant

Showing off his shooting skills

Jordan Travers DesignerMaking the most of beautiful

Dorset with his family

Aisha Green Editorial AssistantExploring The Laines on a crafty weekend away in Brighton

Subscribe today & get a free scrapbook set!

Only 39.99 for 12 issues of Magazine

Sign up at docrafts.com/subscriptions1OO pages of craft inspiration delivered: Fantastic cover gifts Over 1OOO worth of competition prizes Money-off vouchers

Plus free membership to the docrafts Club: Priority access to projects Videos and exclusive downloads 15% off in our shop Entry for prize draws

Terms & conditions: Only available to residents in the UK. The docrafts Creativity Magazine subscription is for 12 issues and will be automatically renewed once you have received your 12th issue. Please note: The minimum subscription is for 12 issues, cancelling will only take effect after you have received the last issue. You can manage your subscription online and view your renewal date online at any time by visiting your profile. Gifts only available from 1st to 3Oth April 2O16. If buying the magazine subscription as a gift, the magazine can be

delivered to an alternative address but the club membership remains with the person buying the subscription and cannot be transferred. Products may vary.

GIFT WORTH

I f you subscribe in Apri l

14.95

Editor: Sarah Gane Marketing Design Manager: Carly Stalker Deputy Editor: Nadine Wilson Sub Editor: Lorna Slessor Publication Designers: Rachel Smith, Jordan Travers Editorial Assistant: Aisha Green Art direction and styling: Carly Stalker, Sarah Gane Freelance photographer: Jesse Wild Photography & videography assistant: Joe Schneider Projects: Aisha Green, Amy Surey, Daisy Martin, Emma Block, Felicity French, Geraldine Carruthers, Jackie Jasper, Jason Cluitt, Jo Boland, Joey Burdett, Julie Hole, Julie Wilson, Katy Leitch, Little Button Diaries, Lorna Slessor, Mags Woodcock, Sarah Gane, Sarah Jackman Read, Sharon Dobson, Suzie Attaway PR: [email protected] Events: [email protected]

Send us your stories, letters and projects: Items sent to the magazine may be published; please indicate clearly if not for publication. Email: [email protected] Address: docrafts Creativity Magazine, Design Objectives Ltd, Unit 9O, Woolsbridge Industrial Park, Three Legged Cross, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 6SP Tel: O12O2 811OOO Web: docrafts.com By submitting material to this magazine, you: (a) warrant that you own the intellectual property rights in the material or you have a licence from the owner of such rights to submit the material; and (b) grant Design Objectives Ltd. and their agents a licence to publish your submissions in whole or in part in any edition of this magazine or any of their other publications in any format or media throughout the world. Any material you submit is sent at your risk and neither Design Objectives Ltd. nor their respective employees, agents or subcontractors shall be liable for any loss or damage. Design Objectives Ltd. 2O16 All prices and details correct at time of going to press but may be subject to change. All prices quoted are RRPs. Products and prices in the magazine should be confirmed with stockists as print errors may occur. Special offers mentioned in the magazine available at participating docrafts Creativity Stores only. All information contained in this magazine is for informational purposes only and is, to the best of our knowledge, correct at the time of going to press. Design Objectives Ltd. is the leading supplier of art and craft materials to the retail trade. docrafts.com and Creativity magazine have been developed to inspire and assist crafters of all abilities. All products shown in this issue can be purchased from good arts and crafts stores nationwide. Printers: This magazine is printed by Warners (Midlands) Plc. on behalf of Design Objectives Ltd. Neither Warners (Midlands) Plc. nor Design Objectives Ltd. accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies that occur in such information. Readers are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services in the magazine. Design Objectives Ltd. 2O16. Published March 2O16 All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of Design Objectives Ltd.

Sarah Jackman ReadSarah is a freelance papercraft designer

who lives on the Isle of Wight with her lovely husband Ian (Hoobs) and pug Lottie. She

designs projects for Creativity magazine and other UK publications and demonstrates

the latest docrafts products along the south coast. When shes not working shes usually

cuddling a pug.

Emma BlockEmma Block is a London-based illustrator

whose work can be found in childrens book, packaging, magazines, greetings cards and books for adults. Emmas work is inspired by the people she meets in her everyday life,

old photos, vintage clothes, old films, travel, 195Os illustrations, 193Os jazz and

sausage dogs.

Jo BolandJo is a mum to two boys who loves to take photos of her family and keep a record of her everyday life through scrapbooking and mini books. She also loves vintage things, crochet, coffee and chocolate. Jo is a freelance craft designer, working from home making for a selection of magazines

and craft companies.

Daisy MartinDaisy is 21 and from East Sussex. Shes been self-employed since she was 18, running a couple of online shops: Cloudy Cow (selling gorgeous washi tape and stationery) and Daisy Mae Jewellery. She also blogs and posts videos on her YouTube channel

(MyGreenCow) about all the creative things she gets up to!

Jason CluittBy day Jason is a mechanical engineer, but in his free time he loves to create objects from paper; a passion that has been with him since a young age. When not coming up with his next creation, Jason is busy watching and reviewing films for his blog

(lifevsfilm.com) and weekly podcast, as well as occupying his mischievous labradoodle.

Katy LeitchKaty has been papercrafting since 2OO5 when she discovered scrapbooking and shes never looked back! She recently took the plunge into the freelance world to live

the dream of crafting for a living. Her style is quite eclectic and she loves everything from

messy, inky and vintage to clean and simple.

This issues craftersMeet some of the talented people behind our projects

5

6Contents... Watch out for fab projects, competition prizes,giveaways and much more inside this issue!

5662

2630

7Creativity HQ In the Headlines.....................................................................8-1O Competition...................................................................................18 Giveaways ................................................................23, 41, 57, 79 The Creativity Community ...........................................42-45 Vouchers................................................................................. 91-92 Useful templates...............................................................93-95 Shopping list........................................................................96-97

Special feature Happy Birthday, docrafts .................................................14-17

PapercraftCute place cards..........................................................................12 Mini pinwheel centrepiece ....................................................19 Exploding box card ..........................................................2O-23 Pretty favour boxes ................................................................. 28 Five ways with Bare Basics Journals....................3O-35 Canvas thank you card ................................................38-39 Rustic scrapbooking..........................................................4O-41 Goody Bag makes .............................................................46-47 New baby card ....................................................................52-53 Cut and emboss menu.................................................. 56-57 Santoros Gorjuss swing card.....................................58-59 Raindrop wall art................................................................6O-61 Scrapbook know-how.................................................. 66-69 A card for Grandad............................................................8O-81 Spring wedding card....................................................... 82-83 Three ways with: Mocha Ultimate Pack ..............84-86 Anniversary card...............................................................88-89

Home decorDIY desk organiser........................................................... 26-27 Craft with Papier Patch..................................................54-55 Origami lampshades....................................................... 62-64 Plaster of Paris bookends.............................................72-73 Decorated bottle .......................................................................9O

Soft craftCrochet postcards............................................................36-37 Craft apron ........................................................................... 48-49 Stamped shoes..........................................................................5O Painted make-up pouch ................................................7O-71

WorkshopsTechnique Workshop.......................................................24-25 Tricks of the Trade.............................................................74-79

52

36

8Follow us on docrafts.com /docrafts /docrafts /docraftsTeam

headlinesIn the

Mags WoodcockI have been part of the docrafts PDT for just over a year and am thrilled to be continuing on in the team. I love inspiring others with unusual and different ways to use docrafts

products, as well as simple ideas for beginners to try. I nd inspiration all around me and love to use colour combinations from everyday life.

Zinia AmoiridouIm an art student from Greece. My

current obsessions include art journalling, scrapbooking and hybrid projects. Apart from papercrafts I love baking, abstract painting,

organising crafty messes and entertaining my hyper puppy. My dream is to make my passion

for art my full-time job."

Giorgia RossiniIm 33 and Im an Italian Radiation

Technologist with a huge passion for crafts. Ive been scrapping for ve years - I love

playing with papers and embellishments and preserving memories. I enjoy mixed media, creating my own backgrounds, layering

scrapbooking is my happy place!

Kieron FranklynI am a gentleman crafter who turns his hand

to anything to ensure it brings a smile to someones face - whether that be through my rst passion, cardmaking, baking or needle felting. I work full-time as a manager for an

international nance organisation, which is far removed from my world of crafting!"

Julie HoleI am delighted to have been chosen for the PDT. I live in North West England and have had a passion for crafting for over 2O years. Im a stamper at heart; its where my creative journey began. Id love to be able to help you along your own creative journey by inspiring

new ideas or use of techniques."

Julie WilsonI am lucky enough to be a mother and

grandmother living in Kent.I dabble in mixed media, scrapbooking, cardmaking, journalling, sewing, quilting and I am learning to knit. I

enjoy sharing my ideas and inspirations in my classes, on my blogs and with Ladies That Craft

Club which I run in Rainham, Kent."classes, on my blogs and with Ladies That Craft

someones face - whether that be through my

PROJECT DESIGN TEAM2O16

Were extremely excited to reveal that we have a brand new Project Design Team for 2O16! We had an overwhelming response from our call for super-crafters to join the 2O16 team, with over 3OO applicants. Thank you so much to everyone that took the time to apply, the standard was extremely high; making the decision a very hard one for us!

Introducing our 12 new team membersPROJECT DESIGN TEAM

Mee t the new

After many hours spent going through the applications, and far too much tea and cake, we now have our nal 12 crafters. Be sure to keep an eagle eye on the blog for their projects as well as right here in the pages of Creativity MagazineGo to docrafts.com/Blog for the latest news, interviews and projects

9Camila Bertolini"I'm an Australian citizen born in Brazil and

currentlyliving in London. Before motherhood, I went to art school and worked in different areas of the creative industry from designing accessories to being a professional street

artist. Cardmaking, stamping, paper sculpture and nursery art are what I love to do most."

Alina BartanI live in Romania with my husband, our sweet 18-month-old little boy and one super-loved cat. By profession I am an IT Programmer but my heart belongs to the arts and crafts department. I run a little business making wedding and

party invites and decorations."

Geraldine CarruthersIenjoy jewellery making, crochet, yarn dying, scrapbooking, stamping and dabble in mixed media. Ive had my dream job of being a docrafts

demonstrator for the past four years. I love showcasing the latest ranges and occasionally contributing to Creativity."

Agnieszka KilbrideI live in Dublin, Ireland and I have a hotel management background. I am currently working as a freelance tutor and designer.

Over the past four years I have been demoing and tutoring in many shops across Ireland. I

get huge satisfaction from seeing my projects published in Creativity."

Jackie JasperI live inSouth East Kent with my family.I

started papercrafting about three years ago when I wanted to try to make a few Christmas decorations and cards I have been totally

hooked ever since.Ilove theplain and simple style of cardmaking,but I like to try other styles too. Im partial to a sequin or two!

Paula Holi eld I am 38 years old and am a quali ed

Dispensing Optician, which is my proper job. Since winning a prestigious

cardmaking competition in 2O1O I have been a published freelance

card designer and papercrafter. I look forward to sharing my projects."

proper job. Since winning a prestigious

Visit docrafts.com for more project ideas, products and stockists

You may have spotted a few of their projects in past issues of Creativity, but I bet you didnt know that Laura and Tia aka Little Button Diaries are also the proud

authors of a multi-award winning blog and three craft books.What inspired you to start Little Button Diaries? When we went on maternity leave we were both making tons of baby stuff, but we found it hard to nd the time to nish things amongst the nappy changing and exhaustion that comes with having babies. So we decided to set up Little Button Diaries to motivate us to nish projects and document what we were making.What can readers expect from your blog? Its about the things we make and bake for us and our kids. We never make anything that we dont actually want or need, so our houses are lled with projects - some lovely... and some pretty bad! Our children love to be involved so we also do kid-friendly crafts. You both have two little ones, how do you nd the time to do all that crafting and run a successful blog? It can be tricky! There are two of us, which takes the load off a little, but most of our projects are simple and not too time-consuming because we dont have hours to spare to make them.

Whats next for you in 2O16? Weve got our rst three books coming out. The Knight Craft Book and The Princess Craft Book are both available to buy now.

Blog of the month

Follow us on docrafts.com /docrafts /docrafts /docraftsTeam

In the

10

WIN!

headlines

Boo k of the month

WIN THIS BOO K!

CAKE INTERNATIONALCake International, Alexandra Palace,

16-17th April 2O16, 1Oam 5pmIf you love to bake, then make sure you

hot-foot it down to Alexandra Palace where you can stock up on all manner of cake

decorating supplies and learn new skills in the demonstration theatres. Show off your baking abilities by entering one of the 17 competition classes. For more details visit

cakeinternational.co.uk

CRAFTS COUNCIL - BUD TO BLOOMHall Place & Gardens, Kent,DA5 1PQ, 19th March 4th September 2O16

The Bud to Bloom curation presents work inspired by the life-cycle of plants, all

created by home-grown makers over the last 4O years. Each exhibit is hand-picked from the Crafts Council Collection so you can be sure to see some amazing work.

OUT AND ABOUT

Author Vanessa Mooncie spent many happy hours as a child learning to crochet and knit, and it shows. If youre a fan of the faux taxidermy pieces that are around at the moment then youll love her latest book, Animal Heads: Trophy Heads to Crochet. Suitable for the more experienced crocheter, there are ten wonderful creations to choose from. Whichever project you decide to start with, you'll nd all of the information you need to create your own crochet creature. Animal Heads: Trophy Heads to Crochet by Vanessa Mooncie, published by GMC Books, 14.99. Weve got 3 copies to give away! Enter online at docrafts.com/competitions for your chance to win. Closing date 3Oth April.

We speak to demonstrators and designers as we explore a bit of docrafts' history on page 14.

Win one of ten pairs of tickets to The Stitching, Sewing and Hobbycrafts show at the NEC in July. Enter at docrafts.com/competitions

demonstratorBY

docraftsI BECAME a

PURE

CHANCE

Join our team!Were on the lookout for talented crafters in the East Sussex area to demonstrate our latest ranges in local stores. If youre passionate about papercraft and love our

products, this is your opportunity to join our lovely team of docrafts demonstrators. Email [email protected] for more information.

Must havesThe easy way to cut cardstock

Chop and change cartridges to mix up the way you work. This portable, lightweight paper trimmer has three interchangeable blades that cut straight, wavy and perforated

lines in an instant. RRP 12.95

Xcut 12" Xtrim Lite

(XCU 2684O4) RRP 12.95

Xcut

Switch the blades for

different cutting effects

11

12

Stock up at a participating docrafts Creativity Store. Visit docrafts.com/stores

Cute place cardsWhat better way to add nishing touches to your table than a hint of geometry and a splash of foiling?

Here at Creativity, were big fans of heat embossing (see pages 74-79 for our heat tool masterclass). Its a great way to add dimension to your papercrafts and is a quick and easy process that produces stunning results. Combine the free cover gift mini cards with a selection of stamps to create a load of copper-embossed place settings.

Measure and cut out some narrow tags in white and pink cardstock. Print your

guests names in Copper Metallic Ink, using the Wedding Ever After Alphabet Stamps. Pour copper embossing powder over the wet ink and shake off the excess. Melt the powder with a heat tool and allow to cool.

Using a palm punch, cut heart apertures on the front of a few Geometric Mocha Mini

Cards. Stick the embossed name tags above the hearts and nish off with some ribbon.

Suzie AttawayMorning makes

Turn to page 96 to nd the full list of craft supplies used to

create Suzie's project

1

Papermania Capsule Geometric Mocha

Mini Cards & Envelopes

COVER GIFTCOVER GIFT

Heat emboss stamped

names to personal ise

mini cards

2

Paper Packs Decoupage Deco Sheets RibbonsTrims Buttons Notelets Stamps and more

Paper Packs Decoupage Deco Sheets RibbonsTrims Buttons Notelets Stamps and more

Out Now

14

Happy birthday,

1996:what a year. Bill Clinton was the US president, John Major was the UKs prime minister and the Spice Girls were releasing their first-ever single Wannabe in the charts. It was also a time when a little-known company called Design Objectives started out in the world of cardmaking and scrapbooking.

2O years on, docrafts has grown into the UKs leading papercraft supplier. Operating out of a giant 5O,OOO square-foot warehouse based in Dorset, its massive range of products are now sold worldwide through independent craft shops, chain stores such as The Range, Hobbycraft, Sainsburys, John Lewis and more, as well as online outlets.

Here at Creativity, we wanted to celebrate two decades of docrafts by sharing some little-known facts about the company, as well as tips and advice from its team. Lets grab a hot cuppa and get started

docrafts!Cakes and balloons at the ready our lovely, crafty company has turned 2O!

docrafts: a timeline Key moments in its history

2O11

docrafts teams up with Little Venice Cake Company to produce a baking range

2OO6docrafts.com created, offering inspiration

and online galleries for its members

2OO3

Do crafts Magazine launched

Design Objectives Ltd established in Poole, Dorset

1996

iS

tock

.com

- Im

age

7529

O559

docrafts Events programme set up

across the UK and Ireland

1999

15

2O13 2O15 2O16Xcut Xpress Machine hits stores to

accompany dies

November

docrafts rst Wedding collection, Wedding Ever

After, released

Xcuts Cut & Emboss Folders launched as the rst of its kind

2O12Creativity Magazine available to buy

through newsstand across UK and Ireland

2O13

Xcuts Build a Scene dies released

January

Papermania Embossing Powder

I love ink pads and embossing powders. Not only can you stamp with the ink, you can also colour backgrounds and personalise

paper. Triple embossing techniques are also a favourite of mine you can use it for so many things, including mixed media work.

CHRISTINE s

I love the way it can accent something, making it really

stand out.

Anitas 3D Gloss

GAYNOR s

I love the way it can accent

3D Gloss

Its so versatile and easy to use with different materials and the

abundance of dies and embossing folders available.

Xcut Xpress Machine

ANITA s

Xpress Machine

if you fancy becoming a docrafts demonstrator

[email protected]

Did you know? docrafts runs regular free craft events in the UK and Ireland

The docrafts Events programme was originally set up in the late Nineties, employing all-star crafters as demonstrators to showcase innovative ideas and new techniques across stores in the UK and Ireland. Christine Saunders, Anita Brooks and Gaynor Spencer have all been working with DO since the late Nineties and early Noughties. They tell us more about life as a docrafts demonstrator

Anita BrooksOriginally from Hertfordshire, Anita has recently moved to Norfolk with her husband. She has three sons and nine lovely grandchildren. She has

been working with Design Objectives on a variety of projects since 1998, even appearing on two of the rst docrafts Create and Craft TV shows!

Gaynor SpencerGaynors skills in decorative painting led her to working as a demonstrator for docrafts since the early Noughties. She is based in North Wales.

Christine SaundersChristine is based in the South-West of England and has crafted for docrafts as a demonstrator for nearly 15 years. She enjoys all aspects of art and craft everything from

cardmaking, painting and jewellery making to working with clay and even kids crafts.

Tell us a little bit about yourself; have you always been a crafter?Anita: My career was in retail management, but paper and needlecrafts have been a passion from an early age. Being a crafter, I also enjoy calligraphy, ceramics, jewellery making, glass and fabric painting.

Gaynor: I got my rst scrapbook for my seventh birthday. Painting and, in particular, decorative painting and watercolours are also a passion of mine. In fact, its what led me to become a demonstrator for docrafts.

Christine: Ive always been interested in arts and crafts since childhood. My rst love was painting and that blossomed into stained glass work and making jewellery with driftwood and beach glass.

How did you become a docrafts demonstrator?Anita: I have been demonstrating with Design Objectives since 1998, working with the team on retailer open days, consumer and trade shows While setting up a new craft shop I was approached by the regional sales rep and jumped at the chance.

Gaynor: I was at a certi cation in Nottingham in 2OO2 and docrafts were there asking if anyone was interested in demonstrating one-stroke painting. I was actually too shy to put my hands up After a couple of days I plucked up the courage to speak to (then-Creativity Editor) Tina Piper who invited me down to Poole for a training session.

WE LOVE

16

Did you know? docrafts is a one-stop shop for crafty kit

Since were pretty sure you can never have too many craft supplies, here are ten of the Creativity teams favourites

Brand new for March 2O16 are the Xcut & Emboss folders. Choose from

six beautiful designs, some with apertures and others without.

1O Xcut Mini dies

Known as a paper trimmer for all our Stateside crafters, the Xcut 13"

guillotine is a trusty tool with kick-ass cutting skills.

9 Xcut Guillotine

5 Xcut Cut & Emboss Folders

At just 2.5O RRP each, the Xcut Mini Dies are the ultimate affordable craft treat. Stock up on mini pinwheels, doilies, nesting hexagons and more.

4 Artiste Watercolour Dual-tip Pens & Caddy

These watercolour pens make it easy to achieve stunning results. Use for things like scrapbook backdrops or

colouring in stamped images.

1OOUR TOP

Did you know?docrafts designs all of its products in-houseMany people dont know that all of docrafts products are designed in-house. This trusty band of creative designers has produced beautiful collections such as Bellissima, Folk Floral, the new Capsule Geometric range and everything in between. We caught up with the teams Graphic Design Manager, Laura Brunton, to nd out more.

Tell us a little bit about yourselfIm originally from Lancashire and I studied Textiles Design at Manchester School of Art. Ive worked for docrafts since late 2OO9. My rst project at the company was actually very similar to what we set now for any future potential candidates: take a

Christine: I became a docrafts demonstrator by pure chance: I walked into a craft shop, bought the docrafts magazine and noticed they had an advert inside asking for demonstrators. I applied, sent off some samples of my work and the rest is history.

What was your rst demo like? Anita: My rst docrafts store demo was in November 2OOO at my local Hobbycraft. It was a brilliant day showcasing Anitas Aqua Glass Paints. I painted on acetate inside aperture cards, tracing designs from laminated project sheets.

Gaynor: My rst demo was in Nantwich for Hobbycrafts in February 2OO3 and the session was on stamping. I had a kit containing six small colouring pencils, cards, envelopes, four stamps, a packet of peel offs and a die-based ink pad

Christine: I was very nervous at my rst demo, as you might expect. Once I settled into it, though, I found it very rewarding and loved meeting new people to share ideas with. I particularly like trying out different techniques with products.

Why do you enjoy working as a demonstrator?Anita: As a people person, I love my job. [I enjoy] meeting and sharing tips and techniques with both new and passionate crafters.

Gaynor: I get to meet some fantastic people most of the time my demonstrations end up with all customers becoming friends, which is a lovely feeling.

Christine: One of the bonuses of the job is introducing people to crafting who havent thought about crafting at all. They then nd that they actually like it, that they can do it and leave the demo wanting to start a new hobby.

Did you know? docrafts pays its demonstrators 95 for each event. All craft materials are supplied too!

17

docrafts has made

58,528,718 wiggle eyes

Costing just 15 RRP for 3O worth of supplies, the goodybag is a

great value way of topping up on essentials. Project sheet included.

7 Goodybag8 Bare Basics

We decided to nominate the Bare Basics collection in its entirety. So versatile and completely

customisable. Prices start from 75p.

3 Xcut 4-in-1 embossing pen

This 4-in-1 embossing pen is wonderful. Choose from three sizes of embossing tools (1.Omm, 1.5mm and 2.Omm) and a pricking tool.

2 Xcut Xtrim Lite

Youll want this just for its perforating cartridge! The Xtrim Lite comes with three interchangeable cartridges: cut straight, wavy or perforated lines.

1 Xcut Xpress Machine

An A4 die-cutting machine that can be folded away neatly at the end of a crafting session? Yes, please. Use with all sorts of paperstock and fabric.

6 Santoro Mini Stamps

At just 2 RRP each, theres never been a better time to stock up on all things gorjuss. There are 2O beautiful

mini stamps to collect.

200,312,384 buttons

23,221,624 metres of ribbon enough to wrap around the moon twice and add a bow!

2 Xcut

theme then research the company and its products. I was given the theme of nautical; I had to design a few icon ideas and papers and then put it together with a little bit of branding and packaging. That was the starting point for what then turned into, a couple of years later, Papermanias Ahoy There.

Who or what inspires you?I like to surround myself with lots of lovely things to look at its one of the things that keeps me creative. [In my little studio at home] Ive got pinboards all over the wall, various screenprints, band posters things like that.

I also take a lot of in uence and reference from things like tattooists and artists,

independent brands and apparel companies. Theyre not always directly linked to my work, but its what I like to surround myself with in my studio at home. Its about keeping your eye open to absolutely everything and anything.

What about blogs, books or magazines? Do you have any favourites that you like to read on a regular basis?I follow quite a few packaging blogs, such as The Dieline (www.thedieline.com), Lovely Package (lovelypackage.com), that kind of thing. One of my favourite blogs is Minted Strawberry (mintedstrawberry.blogspot.com); its a little bit of all sorts like DIY and craft. As for magazines, there are quite a few I like to

read. One of my favourites is called Huck (www.huckmagazine.com) its amazing.I read a lot of graphic novels too Im quite into my comics. I like a bit of everything, but my absolute favourite is Preacher by Garth Ennis.

What sort of trends are you loving at the moment?Patches and pins. A lot of independent artists are making them at the moment. My jackets covered in them!

Do you have any advice for someone interested in working in graphic design?Have a passion for what you do. You should live and breathe art and design.

Share your suggestions on facebook.com/docrafts or

Twitter/docraftsTeam

Whats your favourite docrafts product?

Which item from the Bare Basics range was used as a mould for the plaster of Paris bookends on page 72?

Closing date: 3Oth April 2O16Terms & Conditions: Open to residents of UK and Republic of Ireland only. Entrants must be aged 18 or over. Employees/families of Design Objectives Ltd (promoters) are not eligible to enter. Only entries that follow the entry rules will be considered. Editors decision is final. You may photocopy this form. Entries must be received on or before closing date. This prize is not refundable/transferable with no cash alternative. Content may vary but value will remain the same. The winner will be announced on docrafts.com.

How to enter!Simply answer the question below:

Q

Join us for lashings of tea, cake and crafting at the docrafts head office in Dorset

For your chance to win a pair of tickets for the docrafts crafternoon, go online and visit docrafts.com/competitions or fill in the form and send to:

You do not wish to receive any further information from docrafts (excludes registered docrafts.com users)You do not wish to receive any further information from third-party companies selected by us

NameAddress

PostcodeTelephone EmailCompetition answer

Issue 69 Competition, docrafts, Unit 9O, Woolsbridge Industrial Park, Three Legged Cross, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 6SP

As part of our 2Oth birthday celebrations, were offering three crafters and their friends the chance to join the Creativity team for a Crafternoon at docrafts HQ on 3rd June 2O16. Prize includes limited edition goodybags and refreshments.

WIN!Three

pairs of tick

ets

up for grabs

Come and craft at docrafts HQ!3rd June 2016

18

Spring is here and the flowers are blooming; time to gather a bunch for some beautiful decorations! But why not mix it up for a change? The new Xcut Pinwheel Mini Dies are super-cute and look great as a cluster in a little vase. Simply run the die through the Xcut Xpress Machine with a sheet of cardstock adhered to an Xcut Adhesive Metal Effect Sheet. Using a pokey tool, make a small hole

in all four left-hand corners. Push a mini brad through the centre hole from the back. Fold one of the corners over and push the brad through the hole. Hold in place and do the same with the other three corners. Flatten the brad to secure. Take a dowelling rod and wrap craft tape around it lengthways. Using a hot glue gun, attach the pinwheel to the top of the rod and display an array in a jar.

Back with Metal Effect

Sheets for a hint of shine

Little Venice Cake CompanyDowelling Rods 3.99

Papermania Mini Brads RRP 3 Capsule Geometric Neon, Mono Craft Tape RRP 3

Xcut Mini Die Pinwheel RRP 2.5O Xtra A5 Adhesive Metal Effect Sheets RRP 5

MUST HAVES

Project b

y the

Creativity Te

am

Mini pinwheel centrepieceBring a splash of fun to your table using Xcut Mini Dies

Quick make!

Decorate dowel l ingrods with co-ordinating

craft tape

19

Visit docrafts.com

Exploding box cardCreate a show-stopping extravaganza, complete with

paper cake and hidden surprise!

docrafts .com for a fun video

of the exploding box in action

visit

Palm punch confetti to sit under the paper cake

Embel l ish your card with

Geometric Neon embel l ishments

and die-cut shapes

21


PAPER CRAFT

For a special occasion, sometimes you want that wow factor; a card that is just a bit out of the ordinary. To celebrate 2O years since docrafts was founded, here is a spectacular papercraft project for you to try your hand at that would blow anyone away. To further add to that pizzazz, the box has a hidden surprise Lift a paper cake to reveal a teeny exploding box, full of confetti nestled underneath. This space would be perfect for a small gift such as a piece of jewellery or a gourmet chocolate. We've used Geometric Neon papers and embellishments for this particular project to create a colourful, patterned make. Why not try with one of the other Capsule Geometric instalments for a different look?

Constructing the boxScore a piece of 12 x 12" cardstock at 4" intervals. Turn and score again at the same

measurements to create a grid of 4" squares.

Cut away the four corner pieces with a craft knife to make the exploding box shape.

Trim a second piece of cardstock down to a 9" square, repeating the process described in

steps 1 and 2, but scoring at 3" intervals. This will be the inner layer and will be glued centrally inside the larger piece.

Cut a 6" square of cardstock for the lid. Score borders around the edge, just a fraction

smaller than 1". This gives a tolerance for the lid to fit over the box.

Snip and mitre each of the corners, gluing them together to form the lid.

Its easier to decorate the box before you assemble it. Use a variety of papers and die-

cut elements from the Geometric Neon Ultimate Die-cut & Paper Pack. Combine with plain cardstock to break up the patterned areas. Include gold heat-embossed sentiments and embellishments to echo the foiled papers. Once decorated, glue the two base pieces together in the centre, with the smaller one on top.

1

2

5

3

4

6

Katy LeitchA day make

3

1

4 5

2


22

Paper cakeOpen the box to find a sweet surprise On the top of the cake is a patterned piece of ribbon that allows it to be lifted up, revealing an adorable mini exploding box. (This is made exactly as described previously, but sized to fit inside the cake base). This cute little treat can be filled with confetti or glitter. The box also serves to keep the cake fixed firmly in place as it fits snugly into the base layer.

Cut white cardstock circles with the second and third smallest Xcut Circle Nesting Dies.

Use a compass to create a circle for the middle layer. This needs to be in between the sizes of the previous two circles. Cut matching shapes from glitter sheet and glue to the top of each piece with Anita's Tacky Glue.3 4

2

1

1

23


MUST HAVES Papermania Geometric Neon

A4 Ultimate Die-cut and Paper Pack RRP 12.95 Geometric Mono Adhesive Mirror Shapes RRP 3 Xcut Small Palm Punch Traditional Heart RRP 3Turn to page 96 to nd the full list of supplies

Trim strips of card to form the base of each layer of the cake. Make these 1 " (3cm),

1" (2.5cm), and " (2cm). Cover each strip with patterned paper, choosing lighter areas of the paper each time to create an ombr effect. Cut a wavy pattern in glitter sheet to give the effect of icing dripping down the cake. Adhere these along the top of each strip.

Poke a hole in the smallest circle (which will be the top cake tier). Thread a piece of

ribbon through it so that you can lift it up.

Glue the strips into cylinder shapes that are the same width as each of the circles. Make

the three cake layers by attaching the circles to the tops of the cylinders with Anita's Tacky Glue. Add a

stamped sentiment and some glittery numbers as a little nishing touch.

Before securing the cake in place, attach glitter stars to strips of acetate and adhere in

the centre. Hide the ends of the strips with another glitter sheet circle, before adding the mini box and cake over the top.

TO GIVE AWAY!35

Enter online to win Xcut Xtra Adhesive Glitter

Sheets Pastels worth RRP 5Closing date 3Oth April 2O16

docrafts.com/competitions

2

3

4

5

Surprise the recipient when theyopen the box to find a colourful

paper treat!

24


TECHNIQUE WORKSHOPPerfect your handwriting and master the Artiste Watercolour Pens

How to. . . use the template

Start by placing tracing paper over the guide sheet and trace the letters with the brush tip. Pay attention to how the thickness of

the line can be varied by applying pressure.

Copy the letters on a piece of plain or lined paper with a pencil. Once youre confident with the letterforms youve copied, you can

add brush lettered text to your invite to make them stand out more.

Many of us are wary of writing directly on to our makes, but theres really no need to be! Follow this tutorial to learn how to hone your hand-lettering skills with dreamy watercolours; whether you go freehand or follow a template.

Start by drawing a circle on to a piece of paper with a light pencil. It can help to

mark around an object like a bowl or small plate, or perhaps a circle nesting die. Using a ruler, create some guidelines for where the wording will sit.

Write the text that you want to feature in the centre of the circle, following the two steps

below. Be aware of spacing and how letters might interact with each other. For example, the loop on y or g may overlap the line below.

Using the brush tip of the light blue, light orange and pink Artiste Watercolour Dual-tip

Pens, draw simple flowers dotted randomly along the wreath. Sketch berries with the other tip of the pink pen.

Take a clean, soft paint brush and add a little water to the flowers. Blend gently to create

a subtle watercolour effect. Be careful not to apply too much water, so that the colours dont run into

each other.Once they are dry, add a centre to each one with a darker toned pen.

Using the brush tip of the dark green and bright green pens, draw leaves of varying

sizes around the wreath, following the pencil guideline. Again take a clean, wet paintbrush and blend the leaves to add a watercolour effect.

Draw intertwining lines with the dark green pen to connect the flowers and leaves and

complete the wreath. Add stalks to the larger leaves with the same pen.

Once everything is completely dry, use a rubber to gently remove the pencil lines.

Now that you've developed your skills and have become accustomed to the pens, why not decorate the envelopes that you send the invites in? A sweet garland of watercolour flowers can help tie the envelope and invite together and give your deliveries a personalised finish.

Artiste Watercolour Dual Tip Pens Brush & Marker RRP 12.95 Value Brush Set RRP 5

MUST HAVES

New to watercolour pens? Watch our latest video for hints and tips on how to use them

VISITdocrafts.comfor inspiration,

tips and techniques

1

1

2

2

3

4

5

6

7

Projec

t by E

mma B

lock

Use the template providedor write freehand

Wait unti l the f lowers and leavesare completely dry before adding

the text

Play around with the arrangement of your

boxes, depending on the items that you want to

store inside

Top tip

PAPER CRAFT

27


Itll probably come as no surprise to you that were big fans of bold patterns and stationery, here at DO HQ. Well, this issue weve decided to combine the two into one lovely project. Introducing, the DIY desk tidy! Utilise the variety of mini boxes within the Bare Basics Shadow Box range, along with Artiste paint and Papier Patch deco sheets, to create something truly unique and suited to your storage needs.

Unpack all the elements of your Bare Basics Shadow Box. We found that the Landscape

one worked well for this as it has a variety of shapes and sizes inside. To create a section tall enough for pens, turn the long, thin boxes around and cut one of the ends off. Well add a back for that later.

Decide on a deco sheet design you like and choose a complementary Artiste Acrylic

Paint. We decided to craft with the triangle patterns from the Capsule Geometric range and a Sea Spray Acrylic Paint, but you could choose a few different colours and designs for a more eclectic nish. Apply a couple of coats over each of your boxes both inside and outside allowing time for drying in between layers.

Stick the boxes together to form the layout of the desk tidy using Anitas Tacky Glue or a

hot glue gun. Leave to fully dry.

Fussy cut different shapes from your chosen deco sheet design. Dont be afraid to mix

things up a bit we cut larger clusters of triangles to overlap a few boxes as well as individual triangles for pops of colour on the front and back. Adhere to the desk tidy with tacky glue.

For a more hard-wearing nish, apply a coat of Artiste matt or gloss varnish all over.

Finally, if youve used any of the taller boxes as pen pots, cut a panel the same size as your box from acetate (you get a spare sheet with each shadow box), leaving tabs along three of the edges for gluing. Secure to the back of the box with hot glue.

DIY desk tidyCustomise Bare Basics boxes to create a stylish storage solution tailored to your craft stash

1

2

4

5

3

Sarah GaneA day make

Papermania Bare BasicsLandscape Shadow Box RRP 5.95

Artiste Acrylic Paint Sea Spray RRP 1.25Turn to page 96 to nd the full list of supplies

MUST HAVES

SARAHLOVES

Papermania Papier PatchCapsule Geometric Neon

Deco Sheets(PMA 169319) RRP 2

Papermania Papier Patch

Spend a bit of time arranging the boxes to get a design that works for you.

Choose an Artiste Acrylic Paint to match your deco sheets. We opted for Sea Spray.

Fussy cut various shapes from deco sheets. They could be clusters of colour or individual motifs.

28


PAPER CRAFT

Pretty favour boxesCombine vibrant neon with classic kraft for some contemporary wrapping

Its always lovely to receive a gift where the presentation has had as much thought as the contents. Pillow boxes are the perfect containers for small, sweet treats, and can be decorated as much or as little as you please.

Favour boxesStamp a design in the middle of several flower-shaped tags and vellum strips with

copper ink. Pour some copper embossing powder

over the wet ink and shake off the excess. Emboss with a Pink Heat Tool.

Paint a jute string with Geometric Neon Fabric Paint and leave to dry. Apply a second

coat if necessary.

Make up the boxes and tie the string around them. Thread an embossed or stamped tag

on to each and finish with a neat bow.

Suzie AttawayMorning makes

Turn to page 96 to find the full list of craft supplies used to

create Suzie's project

1

2

3

Must havesCraft with the new collections for half the price

The Goody Bag is the perfect way to make sure the latest products nd their way into your stash. With 3O worth of versatile crafty treats for just 15, there has never

been a better time to stock up. RRP 15

docrafts Goody Bag(GDY O316)

RRP 15

docrafts

29

Visit docrafts.com

Five ways with Bare Basics JournalsMix materials with this krafty must-have for fabulous results

PAPER CRAFT

31


1

The cover of a Papermania Bare Basics Journal is a great blank canvas to decorate, whether its for yourself or as a handmade gift! Ideal for lists, as a notebook, or even as a mini scrapbook; they are a stash essential. Here, we explore five different ways of transforming these sweet little booklets from simple to stunning.

Stitched journalSplash some colour on to a journal using bright twine and an Xcut Hole Punch. The addition of coloured stitching contrasts beautifully against the kraft cardstock, making a striking and contemporary project.

Position a triangle from the Papermania Capsule Geometric Neon

Stencils in the bottom-right corner of the journal cover. Punch holes into each corner of the triangle using the Xcut Hole Punch. Move the stencil along to the left, overlapping the triangles as you go along the bottom. Start to work upwards and gradually fill in the space. Make each line one triangle shorter to create a diagonal design.

Thread a large-eye needle with twine and knot the end. Starting at the

bottom-right corner, stitch in and out of all the holes to make your pattern. Knot off when you start to run out and continue with a new thread as required.

Stamp a 'hello' sentiment on to a Bare Basics tag. As you approach the top of

the design when sewing, thread the kraft tag on to a stitch to secure it neatly to the front of the journal.

2

3

1 2 3

Stitch with Papermania

Twine or Bare Basics

Natural Jute

Projec

t by A

my S

urey

32


PAPER CRAFT

Cork-covered bound journals Make a template with two points marked 3cm and 6cm from both edges

of the journal. Using a piece of thin jute and a needle, thread from the outside of journal 1 through a needle hole in the spine to the centre pages at point A. Back out at point B.

Place journal 2 on top and thread through point B. Thread back through

point A of journal 2, pulling gently. Tie a knot with the tail end to secure.

Place journal 3 on top and thread through point A and back through

point B. Pull gently to tighten. Pass the needle underneath the exposed cord between the two previous journals (1 and 2) at point B and underneath the cord between the last two journals (2 and 3), again pulling lightly to

tighten. Repeat step 3 when joining journal 4 and any additional journals you may want to add. Tie the two cord ends to fasten securely and cut the cord 1cm from the knot. Repeat the whole process at the other side of the journals, joining at points C and D. Cover the front and back with Xcut Xtra Adhesive Cork Sheets and round the corners using an Xcut 1Omm Corner Punch. Add a strip of Xcut Xtra Adhesive Fabric Sheet over the spine to hide your binding.

1

2

3

1

2

3

Embel l ish your journal

cover with die-cut

canvas f lowers

Proj

ect b

y Jo

Bolan

d

Stock up1 2

Marbled journalTake a waterproof container and spray

in a thick layer of shaving foam. Splash spots of ink on to it, combining two or more colours. Mix around gently, creating a marbled effect. Make sure you dont mix the inks too much that they combine together, as you still want a clear definition between the two tones. Take a piece of white cardstock and lay it on top of the foam, ensuring that most of the surface touches the ink. Gently rub on top of the card.

Remove the card from the tray. Take a 12" ruler and carefully

run it over the surface, getting rid of any excess shaving foam. Make sure that you dont scratch the marbling when doing this. Leave the panel to dry completely.

To make up the rest of the journal, emboss the word Notes in the centre, heating gold embossing powder over the letters

to make them stand out. Cut the marbled card to 6 x 4" and die cut a small aperture in line with the embossed word, using a die from the Tags & Bookplates Decorative Dies Set. Round off the edges on the right-hand side of the marbled cardstock with an Xcut Corner Punch, to fit with the corners of the journal. Ensuring that the aperture frames the words perfectly, attach the panel to the front of the journal with 3D foam tape.

1

2

3

Projec

t by J

oey B

urde

tt

Frame an embossed tit le

with a marbled panel

3

34


Vellum dust jacketTheres something very satisfying about sewing on paper; if youve not yet discovered this then nows the time. This project showcases a lovely vellum journal cover with coloured thread. Its really very easy as long as you get your measurements right and can sew in a straight line!

Create a pretty journal by covering the outside cover with Papermania Papier Patch

Swallows Deco Sheets, tearing into little pieces and adhering with Anitas Tacky Glue. For this project its easier to cover the journal with small amounts of glue and paper and work your way across, rather than covering the entire page with glue to start with. While drying, fold an A4 piece of vellum in half.

Cut to measure 12.5 x 17.5cm when folded, so it's a little larger than the journal. Trim two more pieces (the inside aps) to 9 x 17.5cm.

Round the top and bottom outside corners of the vellum pieces with the Xcut 1Omm

Corner Punch. This will match the corners of the journal and act as a guide when sewing.

Align a ap piece to the inside of the opened main rectangle. Using a straight 3mm stitch,

sew the two panels together, 5mm in from the edge, securing each end with a reverse stitch. Sew the second pocket to the cover, ensuring that its on the same side of the vellum as the other one. Slide the journal covers into each pocket before use.

1

2

1

2

3

3Anitas

Parchment Vellum Plain Pastels

(ANT 1622OO2) RRP 3.5O

Try with

Sew around your dust jacket in a

contrasting thread

Projec

t by J

o Bo

land

35

Turn to page 96

Foiled and painted journalMetallic foiled stationery is everywhere right now, and we cant get enough. There are lots of ways this trend can be translated into numerous projects with Papermania hot foils; theyre simple to apply with the help of a heat tool, ink pads and powder.

Select the Xcut Mini Alpha Dies you need for your lettering on the front of the journal.

Line up the dies on the Xcut Xpress cutting mat so that the cutting edge is facing down. Adhere masking tape over the tops of the dies and position on to the journal cover.

Place the cover at on to the cutting mat so that the front is face down. Layer the second

cutting plate on top and pass through the machine. Remove the dies and continue in this manner until all of your greeting has been cut. As there is only one of each letter in each pack of mini alphabet dies, ensure that you leave a gap to die cut any letters that are repeated.

Cover the front of your journal red with a pigment ink pad. While the ink is wet,

sprinkle over clear embossing powder. Tap off any excess back into the pot to reuse. Warm up the powder with a heat gun. Once it has melted, place the hot foil silver-side-down and use a paper creaser to transfer the foil, rubbing rmly over the surface. Continue heating the powder in sections until youve covered the whole area.

1

2

WE

LOVE

Xcut Mini Die Alphas Pt. 1

(XCU 5O3625) RRP 2.5O

Xcut

XcutScrew Hole Punch

(XCU 26812O) RRP 12.95

Xcut

Xcut1Omm Corner Punch

(XCU 257OOO) RRP 5.95

Xcut

PapermaniaBare Basics

Journal & Envelope (PMA 174361) RRP 1.5O

Papermania

3

Visit docrafts.com for more project ideas, product and stockists

1 2 3

Papermania Hot Foils Glitter

Dark Pink/Light Pink

(PMA 4O911O3) RRP 4.5O

Project b

y Aish

a Green

36


PAPER CRAFT

Crochet postcardsSend a beautiful vintage-style greeting, with a scalloped edging to make it extra special

Make your own crochet cards by stamping the Papermania Postal Frame Tall Urban Stamp on to a trimmed rectangle of cardstock. Layer different stamps in contrasting colours of pigment inks, so that it looks like a message and a postage stamp. Cut down to approximately 5", leaving a " border around the postcard. Round the corners using an Xcut Corner Punch.

With an Xcut Screw Hole Punch, make an odd number of holes at regular intervals around the

border, including one at each corner (this example has 49 holes). Use a 3mm crochet hook and baker's twine to create the crochet border. Start at the bottom left, one hole in from the corner, holding the end of the twine in place on the back of the card with a piece of craft tape.

Double Crochet (dc) - insert the hook through the first hole from front to back,

hook the twine and pull it back through the hole.

Jo BolandAn afternoon make

1

4 5

2 3

1

37


Wrap the twine around the hook and pull through the two loops on the hook.

Chain Stitch (ch1) - loop the twine around the hook and pull it through the loop.

Treble Crochet (tr) - wrap the twine around the hook and insert it through the next hole

to the right. Hook the twine and pull it back through hole (there will now be three loops on the hook). Wrap the twine around the hook and pull it through the rst two loops on the hook. Wrap the twine around the hook again and pull through the nal two loops on your hook. Repeat this step to have two treble crochet stitches in the same hole. (The second time it will be a slightly tighter squeeze).

Make a chain stitch (ch1) and repeat this pattern around all four sides of the postcard;

Double Crochet (dc) into next hole, Chain Stitch

(ch1), Treble Crochet (2tr) into following hole, Chain Stitch (ch1), repeat.

In each corner hole - [tr, ch1, tr, ch1, tr, ch1].

At the end, join to the beginning stitch with a slip stitch (insert hook though top of dc,

wrap yarn around hook, pull through both stitch and loop on hook). Cut the twine and pull the end through. Weave the end through to the back of the card and tuck both tails under the stitches.

Papermania Capsule Spots & Stripes PastelBaker's Twine RRP 5.95

Xcut Screw Hole Punch RRP 12.95 1Omm Corner Punch RRP 5.95

Turn to page 96 to nd the full list of supplies

MUST HAVES

2

3

4

56

JOLOVES

PapermaniaUrban Stamps Postal Frame

(PMA 9O7188) RRP 4.5O

Papermania

Pretty, scal loped crochet edging

gives a vintage look to the card

Use coloured ink to highl ight the stamped sentiment and

co-ordinate with the baker's twine

PAPER CRAFT

38


Canvas 'thank you' cardUse the Xcut adhesive fabric sheets for the background of an effective, textured notelet

Fancy something a bit different? Try switching it up and incorporate a new material into your papercrafting. Xcuts range of adhesive sheets enable you to add that little extra something to your projects with no fuss. Not only are they super-easy to apply, they are perfect to stamp on and give a completely different feel to printing on normal plain cardstock. Make this lovely thank you card with the Owl Folk stamped characters for a sweet, subtle and minimal effect.

Start by cutting a 13.5cm square piece of canvas sheet to t the front of a white card

blank. Use a sharp craft knife and a metal ruler for a neat, clean nish. Ensure that the canvas panel completely covers the whole of the card blank but don't attach the two together yet.

Choose some shapes from the Creativity Essentials Geometric Neon Stamp Set. Using

blue, red and light blue pigment inks, stamp an arrangement all across the bottom of the panel,

with a few at the top for added interest. Print an additional row of shapes towards the right-hand side to resemble a perch for the owl to sit on. Make sure that you leave a good portion of the canvas blank as a feature, as this helps your stamped design stand out.

Take the Papermania Owl Folk Characters Set and a blue pigment ink pad and stamp

the two smaller owls towards the middle right of the panel just above the perch. Print the sentiment below it in black, using the Creativity Essentials Folk Floral Alphas Set.

On a separate piece of canvas, stamp two of the feathers with blue pigment ink.

When they are completely dry, carefully cut them out, leaving a thin canvas edge. Sew through the back of each feather with some red cotton thread. Attach one end of the cotton to the sticky back of the feather and the other end to the sticky back of the canvas. Leave the backing paper on the feathers, enabling them to hang free to create a bit of movement.

Adhere another strip of red cotton just underneath the sentiment. Peel the backing

paper slightly to anchor one end of the cotton to the sticky back and stretch it across the panel. Fasten the other end in the same way, with the fold at the top. Peel the backing paper off and carefully attach the canvas panel to the front of the card blank. Push down rmly where the threads are attached to make sure they are secure.

Jackie JasperA morning make

Creativity Essentials Capsule Geometric Neon A5 Clear Stamp Set RRP 8.95

Papermania Mini Ink Pads Pigment RRP 12.95 Square Cards/Envelopes White RRP 7.95

4 x 2.5" Clear Stamp Block RRP 4 Urban Stamp Owl Folk Characters RRP 4 Xcut Xtra Adhesive Fabric Sheet RRP 5

MUST HAVES

1

3

4

5

2Xcut Xtra A5 Adhesive Chalkboard Sheets (XCU 1744O2) RRP 5

Xcut Xtra A5 Adhesive

Try with

Visit docrafts.com

Stamp down firmly on the canvas to leave a good impression


Papermania Country Life

Wooden Stamp Set (PMA 9O7491)

RRP 5

Papermania

Layer your photos on white

card to make them

stand out better

PAPER CRAFT

Stock up

4141

Stock up at a participating docrafts Creativity Store. Visit docrafts.com/storesat a participating docrafts Creativity Store. Visit docrafts.com/stores

1

Daisy MartinA morning make

Rustic scrapboo kingTurn your hand to baking and craft a lovely recipe page,complemented by stamps and die-cuts

The Country Life collections rustic, homely aesthetic teams up perfectly with kitchen imagery as seen in this scrapbook page. The simple colour scheme and large range of die-cuts in the Ultimate Die-cut & Paper Pack make it easy to use for many different projects. Create a handy little envelope from the printed acetate to hold your favourite recipe.

Build up the background by ripping an A4 patterned sheet in half diagonally. Stick it

down on either corner of a 12 x 12" page.

Take a selection of photos and back them on to plain white cardstock, leaving a small

border. Stick them on to some tiled patterned paper and arrange the three photos down the right-hand side of your page.

Split up the space slightly by adding some of the border die-cuts part of the way down.

Stick a little green heart tag die-cut on top of them as extra decoration.

Create an acetate envelope following the steps below and adhere to the bottom of

the page. Make a small recipe card to complement your photography. Arrange a couple of die-cuts to the front of the envelope, along with a stamped strawberry from the Wooden Stamp Set. This can be used to label what is in your envelope.

Take the gingham heart stamp and print a few to embellish the page. Cut them out,

leaving a thin white border. Attach some twine to a die-cut tag and stick next to the top two images. Trim the twine so that it's level with the edge of the page. Add a title using die-cut letters and adhere with 3D dots. Finish the page with a little journalling in the top left-hand corner to tie in with the theme.

2

3

4

5

Use double-sided tape to assemble the envelope, folding in the aps at the

sides and adhering the bottom ap upwards. Stick to the page.

Trace the template on page 93 and cut out. Lay it out at on printed acetate

from the Ultimate Pack and use a marker pen to draw around it. Cut it out.

Fold up the envelope using the 4 in 1 Embossing Pen to gently score along

the fold lines. Take your time with this to get the shape perfectly straight.

1 2 3

How to. . . make the envelope

TO GIVE AWAY!30

Enter online to win a Papermania Country Life

Ultimate Die-cut & Paper Pack RRP 11.95

Closing date 3Oth April 2O16docrafts.com/competitions

Papermania Country LifeA4 Ultimate Die-cut and Paper Pack Linen RRP 11.95

Wooden Stamp Set RRP 5

MUST HAVES

42

Join our community at docrafts.com /docrafts /docrafts /docraftsTeam

The Creativ ity Community

Katie 's paper cacti can be found inCreativ ity Issue 65

What was the very rst project you ever made?I remember making some elephant earrings out of polymer clay when I was around eight or nine. My

rst real papercraft project was a scrapbook layout of my dog . No WAY am I sharing it its not a thing of beauty!

Youve created lots of different projects for Creativity, whats been your favourite to date?It has to be the paper cacti I created. I was so unsure when I got the brief and it was a bit of a challenge but I really loved the end result.

Whats your favourite docrafts collection to use when you're crafting?This year Ive loved working with the Folk Floral collection. The soft, muted tones really suit my personal style.

What would be your top tip for someone thinking about turning their craft passion into a career?Be realistic about your expectations; its not all about making pretty things. There are a lot of other skills you need to get to grips with such as writing, marketing and social media.

What's next for 2O16 and beyond? As well as writing, teaching and demonstrating, I also work as a Virtual Assistant, ghost writing for other craft professionals. This is an area of business I am looking to grow in 2O16. I am hoping to grow my YouTube channel this year too.

Introducing super-talented full-time crafter, Katy Leitch

Meet the

Xcut Die Set Wedding Alphabet & Numbers RRP 19.95My pet hate is temperamental dies but the Xcut ones cut rst time, every time.

Katy Loves

MAKER

Creativ ity

Katy LovesKaty Loves

Woodland cards from Issue 64

Papermania Kraftstax Cardstock RRP 3.5OThis is wonderful quality card. I love the thickness and warm colour and get through a ton of it when I'm crafting!

As wel l as writ ing, teaching

and demonstrating, I also work

as a Virtual Assistant

'Brave Wings' pocket watch

Write to us at [email protected]. Find our postal address on page 5

43

#docrafts

Hi Creativity,Once your one-year Creativity subscription is up, does it renew automatically or do you have to do it manually? Also, do you get another subscription gift?Elle

Creativity says:Hi Elle,Yes, once your yearly subscription is up it will renew automatically and a gift will be sent to you in the post. The gift for subscribing in April is the Papermania Capsule Geometric Neon Scrap Book Set.We hope you'll continue your Creativity magazine subscription, for many more crafty projects and fun ideas to try!

Easter may have been and gone, but that doesnt mean you cant treat someone to a few homemade choccies, visit http://bit.ly/choc_truffle_do to find out how to make these tasty truffles.

Got a question? Get in touch!

Ask the team

Some of our favourite projects shared with us online

In the gallery

Kerri-Ann via Instagram #docrafts

Natalie Smith via Instagram #docrafts

Emma Dickson via Facebook #docraftsMonday

How to make chocolate truffles

Video of the month

Get featured!docrafts.comInstagramFacebook

Dear docrafts, I love crafting and started about seven years ago. I have since developed a chronic illness which means I dont always have the energy to craft, so when I do it really fills me with joy! Im not the greatest crafter but it comes completely from my heart and I love nothing more than seeing the pleasure on my family and friends faces when they see one of my cards. The card I am sending you photos of is for my mother in law. Ive not made a card like this before but I saw the article in your magazine. I hope you like the card.Kindest regards,Emma Grady

Creativity says: Thank you so much for sharing your card with us, it's lovely to hear how much joy crafting gives you and the recipients of your makes!

STAR LETTER

Star letter wins 5O

worth of craft goodies!

The Creativ ity Community

44

Join our community at docrafts.com /docrafts /docrafts /docraftsTeam

Christine Bi lyard"I made this card using mainly Eau de Nil and Simply Floral. Happy Birthday!"

Kel ly ChapmanThis card is made using Capsule Geometric Neon and Forever Friends.

Louisa Bess"Every part of this project is made entirely from docrafts products."

Rachel ODwyer"The symbol for 2Oth Anniversary is China hence the Chinese image."

April 2O16 marks 2O fun-filled years of docrafts. To help us commemorate this special occasion, you've been filling our inbox with beautiful cards made of your favourite docrafts products. Here are our personal top 1O favourite designs along with our picked-at-random winner, who is the lucky recipient of a 1OO craft bundle! A huge thank you to everyone who sent us their creations.

We asked you to send in makes to celebrate our 2Oth birthday!

docrafts birthdayCard contest

Natal ie Dodd"I have designed this card using 2O different collections from over the years."

Sal ly Charman "Here is my latest creation using Forever Friends."

Lisa Wil l iams"This card was inspired by summer. I love flowers and butterflies."

Ruth Reed"Im still loving the Natures Gallery range - so pretty and delicate."

#docrafts

Write to us at [email protected]. Find our postal address on page 5

45

#docrafts

Carol Al letto"I have really enjoyed making this card - and it gave me a good excuse to use my new dies. Happy birthday!"

And the winner is...

Alexandra Korrol"My name is Alexandra Korrol and Im 24 and from Kazakhstan, Almaty.

I like to create unusual three-dimensional (volumetric) things from paper and cardboard

(greetings cards, decorations for interior etc). I wish to present you this lovely suitcase

greetings card (made from Folk Floral paper and few layers of cardstock).

Happy Birthday!"

After pulling a project out of a hat, we are delighted to announce that Alexandra Korrol is our lucky number one

WINNER

Sarah Woods"I have been inspired by the great magazines over a period of time, with many fantastic ideas."

PAPER CRAFT

46


Goody Bag projectsCreate two contrasting makes using the Anitas and Country Life contents from this months Goody Bag

Proj

ect b

y Ger

aldin

e Ca

rrut

hers

PAPER CRAFT


47

New hive cardCraft a cute housewarming gift with a difference using Country Life patterns and die-cuts.

Attach a mat of Country Life papers on to a kraft card blank using double-sided tape.

Emboss a 6 x 4.5" sheet of kraft cardstock with a honeycomb pattern ink the embossing folder with brown pigment ink before running through the Xcut Xpress. Snip around the hexagons on the edges, so that its no longer a perfect rectangle. Cut out several shapes from between the embossing, using a sharp craft knife.

To create a bee embellishment, die cut one oval in yellow, one heart in vellum and a

selection of black stripes. Assemble as pictured and glue into place over a die-cut doily.

Stamp a sentiment onto card, trim and place over a Papermania Country Life

die-cut topper. Group this with a yellow hexagon, Handmade with love die-cut, twine and peg. Position on the top-right-hand side of the card.

Decorated cosmetics boxLots of little girls have a stash of make-up, so why not fashion them a gorgeous case to keep it all in? The Anitas Dressing Room Foiled Decoupage provides the perfect decoration.

Cut a piece of Red Stripe Deco Sheet into 1Ocm pieces. Glue around the body of a

square nesting box, folding the edges inside and on the bottom.

Trim another square of deco sheet to 18cm and adhere to the top of the box. Cut 4cm

strips with the stripes going the opposite way and stick along the edges of the top.

Use the remaining deco sheet to cover the inside and leave to dry. Glue a die-cut strip

across the lid. Layer up the decoupage image with 3D foam squares.

Attach the decoupage on the top, towards the left-hand side. Add a bow to the right of

the decoupage and stick flowers in the corner.

Stamp Make up on the tag and attach to the right-hand corner. Wrap ribbon around

the edge of the lid and add shimmer dome stickers to finish.Pro

ject by S

arah

Jackm

an Rea

d

1

1

2

2

3

3

4

5

49


SOFT CRAFT

Ever experienced the hassle of misplacing your gadgets and gizmos mid-craft? We certainly have! Fret no longer, as this nifty felt make will hold all of your stash essentials and stop them from wondering off when youre busy making. All you need is eight sheets of felt, adding up to a whopping 4 for an apron youll wear time and time again.

Start off with three pieces of grey felt. Sew two together, pinning in place and stitching

down the length. Sew the third piece to the second; ensuring the un nished seams are both facing the same direction. Separate the aps from the seam allowances and pin at against the felt. Making sure that your bobbin thread is the same as your top one, sew carefully down each seam allowance ap creating a top stitch on the right side of the apron.

Take two sheets of green felt and sew together along the shorter side. This time,

dont press the seams or topstitch, simply reverse the stitch a little on either end to make sure the sewing stays in place. With a rotary cutter, ruler and cutting mat (or very neatly with scissors), trim the joined felt piece so that it measures 6O x 15cm (24 x 6"). Pin this to the front of the grey felt, placing so that the join is directly in the middle. Sew around the sides and along the bottom, leaving a gap at the top so that its one big pocket.

Depending on what type of tools you plan to ll your apron with, mark out faint lines

for where your pockets will be. To help you start to mark out some of the pockets, use the pre-existing seams on the grey felt as your rst two. Remember that you already have a join in your felt; sewing directly down the seam will make this blend in with the rest of the pockets. Fill in gaps between these three lines and sew down all of your markings in co-ordinating green thread.

Sew three sheets of grey felt together as you did to begin with, but this time stitching

along the short edge. Cut two 1.5" wide strips from the piece using a ruler, cutting mat and a rotary cutter. Sew a line of stitching O.5cm away from the edges around each strip, and attach either one to the top corners of the apron. Fold and pin all four sides of your apron into a hem and stitch into place, so there are no raw edges left on the grey.

Using the Xcut Buttons Die Set, cut a selection of buttons in various colours of

scrap felt. Adhere them to your apron in a cluster around the left-hand seam, with a dab of glue. Take a length of grey embroidery thread and stitch a couple of loops through the holes, as though they are real buttons.

13

4

5

Lorna SlessorAn afternoon make

2

Craft apronYoure only as good as your tools, so keep hold of them in a cute, pocketed pinny and never lose sight of them again!

Craft Planet Acrylic Felt Light Green, Grey, Plum RRP 5Op each

Xcut Dies Buttons RRP 9.95

MUST HAVES

LORNA

LOVES

XcutDies Buttons(XCU 5O3O55) RRP 9.95

Xcut

E ver thought of customising your shoes? Why not give it a try with an inexpensive pair of canvas trainers, fabric paint and stamps? The Creativity Essentials Paisley Stamp Set is perfect for this!

The best way to get even coverage on a stamp is to spread fabric paint on to a large clear stamping block. This creates a smooth, thin layer which will allow the stamp to take on enough colour to cover the image, but not too much that it seeps into the crevices of the stamp. With a steady hand, stamp the images on to the shoe. Start with the larger paisley and add detail with the smaller flowers. A good tip when stamping around the toe area is to hold a small clear stamp block inside the shoe to press against from the outside. Leave to dry and voil!

Add splashes of colour

with gold fabric paint

Creativity Essentials A6 Clear Stamp Set Paisley RRP 5 Papermania Clear Stamp Blocks

1.75 x 3" & 1.75 x 1.75" RRP 3 Clear Stamp Block 4 x 5.25" RRP 4

Capsule Geometric Mono Fabric Paint Black RRP 2

Capsule Geometric Neon Fabric Paint Gold RRP 2

MUST HAVES

Project b

y Jo Bo

land

Jazz up your canvas kicks with apainted paisley print

Quick make!

50

New baby cardWelcome a little one to the world with this sweet shaker make

Palm punch l ittle stars andsprinkle behind a roundacetate window

PAPER CRAFT

53


Say "hello" to a new little bundle of joy with this lovely, layered card. Its spring-like colours and patterns make it perfect for a boy or girl and means it can be made far in advance if youre waiting to be surprised!

Trim an 8 x 8" white card blank to measure 13.5 x 18cm, with the fold at the top. Cut a

piece of green cardstock to measure 13 x 17.5cm and crop gingham Country Life paper to roughly 12.5 x 17cm. Shape the corners of both with an Xcut Corner Punch. Frame the edges of the gingham with a layer of glitter glue and machine stitch to the green cardstock. Stick the mat to the card base with Anita's Tacky Glue.

Cut another piece of green cardstock to measure 1O x 14.5cm and round the corners.

Adhere to the centre of the gingham mat. Trim yellow heart paper to measure 9.5 x 14cm and corner punch, stitch and glitter the edges. When dry, die cut a circular aperture for the shaker. Cut a green frame using a scalloped circle and a nesting circle die. Glue to the front of the yellow cardstock, around the aperture.

Trim a sheet of acetate slightly smaller than the card. Stick to the back of the yellow

panel with double-sided tape. Cut some polka dot paper to measure 9.5 x 1Ocm, rounding the top corners and gluing to the centre of the green paper. Ensure it is central when viewed through the aperture. Use star palm punches to cut stars from scraps of gingham, green and yellow papers. Stick the yellow panel over the top with 3D pads.

Die cut clouds and a stork from the Xcut New Baby Icons Set and emboss with the

polka dot embossing folder. From green and yellow paper, cut a shtail banner to measure 2.5 x 6.5cm and glue below the aperture. Draw around the hello mini die on white cardstock and die cut in green paper. Glue the two together.

Place punched stars on top of the polka dot mat. Use 3D foam pads to seal them within

the shaker window. Stamp the Little one sentiment on white cardstock and cut into separate letters. Edge each one with glitter glue and stick in place. Finish with die-cut embellishments.

1

4

5

2

3

Glitz It Glitter Glue Iridescent RRP 2.5O Papermania 5 x 7" Clear Stamps Alphas &

Numbers RRP 6.95 12 x 12" Acetate RRP 6.5O

Xcut 6 x 6" Embossing Folder Small Polka Dot RRP 4 Mini Die Hello 2.5O

Turn to page 96 to nd the full list of supplies

MUST HAVES

Jul ie Hole An afternoon make

XcutA5 Die Set New Baby Icons

(XCU 5O3264)RRP 19.95

Xcut

XcutSmall Palm Punch Traditional Star

(XCU 2616O4) RRP 3

JULIELOVES

1

3

2

Follow us on

Paint and sand lol l ipop

sticks

to make a sol id frame

Deco sheets like youve never seen them before! Combine with acetate for a lovely, delicate lantern

55


Decorative papers are fabulous for giving a new lease of life to all sorts of items; adding pattern and colour to photo frames, furniture, anything that takes your fancy! Did you know that Papier Patch Deco Sheets can also be added to acetate or glass? They have a lovely, soft, translucent quality that makes them ideal for creating a stained glass effect on

tealight holders and lanterns just make sure you use battery candles for safety.

If longer days and milder weather is enticing you out into the garden during the spring evenings, you might like to add some atmospheric lighting with this pretty lantern. Lollipop sticks provide the perfect base to create a strong structure for your make, and

when brightened up with a lick of Artiste Acrylic Paint you cant even tell their humble origins. Pick a pattern to co-ordinate with your dcor, such as swallows and ditsy orals to Moroccan tiles, geometric shapes and feathers. Print out the templates on page 93 for an eye-catching ornament, or scale down and make a string of mini lanterns.

Stick six jumbo lollipop sticks side-by-side. Score around the hexagon template and cut

out. Glue two lolly sticks sideways across the top.

Paint all the wooden pieces with two coats of bronze paint, and add a few coats of

white on top. When dry, sand to distress.

Cut regular lollipop sticks to t the templates, making six of each side panel and one of the top

hexagon. Glue together at the corners.

Cut acetate windows to t the frames, covering each one with Papier Patch. Glue to the reverse

of the panels.

Join the panels together with strips of cardstock, scored down the middle. Fix to the base rst before joining the sides. Add the top hexagon. To nish, wind a long piece of wire around a skewer to make a

handle. Thread the wire through holes in the top of the lantern.

1 2

3 4

5

Papermania 12 x 12" Acetate Plain RRP 6.5O

Craft Planet Lollipop Sticks Natural

RRP 1

+

+

You will nee d

Papermania Papier Patch

Deco Sheets Swallows RRP 2

Papermania

Projec

t by S

haron Do

bson

HOME DECOR

57


PAPER CRAFT

Cut and emboss menuTell your guests what's for tea with the help of Xcut. Choose from a selection of designs for a personalised make

The handy new Xcut Cut & Emboss Folders can be used for much more than cardmaking! Craft with one of the intricate background folders to create a beautiful border for a wedding menu, marking off the sections that you want to be left plain. For extra co-ordination to your colour theme, back die-cut sections with metallic cardstock as a ash of additional interest.

Trim a piece of cardstock to 14 x 21cm. Turn it and measure 2.5cm down from the top and

3cm up from the bottom, marking with a pencil. Place your card textured-side-down in the oral cut and emboss folder. Place it so that the 2.5cm mark is ush with the embossed edge of the folder. Run through the Xcut Xpress Machine. Repeat this step for the bottom of your menu, this time at the measured depth of 3cm. Use a pokey tool to gently push out the die-cut petals.

Cut out two squares from a piece of pearlescent pink paper, slightly larger than

two of the die-cut owers. Dab glue round the edges of the squares and apply behind one top ower and one bottom ower.

Take a piece of gold cardstock and cut two strips. One strip should measure 14 x 2.5cm,

the other should measure 14 x 3cm. Place these behind the die-cut sections at the top and bottom of the menu. Apply glue to the areas that wont be visible and adhere to the back of the cardstock. Once the strips are dry, round off each corner with an Xcut Corner Punch.

Use a grey Watercolour Dual-tip Pen to create the hand-drawn writing at the top.

Have a go on a piece of scrap paper a few times before you start on the real thing! Use the brush end of the pen and write in a uid sweeping motion. Alternatively, if you have a light box, place the template provided on page 93 under your cardstock and trace over the top.

Turn the menu over and, starting at the bottom, measure 1cm up from the edge of

the gold card and draw a line across. Mark a further 1Ocm up and draw another line. Measure O.8mm in from the left edge and add a third line. Repeat this for the right edge. You should now have a box of roughly 12 x 1Ocm. In each corner of the box, draw a curve that looks like a quarter circle. Carefully cut each curve with a craft knife.

Your removable menu needs to measure 12cm x 1Ocm to t into the cardstock. Trim

your printed lettering and frame it with a border of pearlescent paper before inserting it into the cut corners. For another option, you could hand write or stamp your menu. Finish with a velvet bow tied around the centre.

Fel ic ity French A morning make

Craft Planet Gold A4 Card RRP 2Papermania Pearlescent Paper Pack A4 RRP 5 Wedding Ever After Velvet Ribbon Gold RRP 2Xcut 11O x 15Omm Cut and Emboss Folder Floral

Pattern RRP 7.95

MUST HAVES

1

3

4

Documents

Docr april 2016