Trinket's Letter Box

Postcards from Japan

2010-07-20T16:43:00.000-07:00

I dont often comment about postcards. though I do always like to recieve them. This one i saw today was posted on Missive Maven's Flickr gallery. It had been sent as part of a postcard swap and Maven has even gone on to blog about it here.
This is a very unusual postcard. Its a soft painting, part of me would like to say impressionist, but Im not sure if thats the right artistic term for it. Its Japanese and has a very soft quality to it. Im very taken by it. Certainly an image I would place on the wall in my room or add to my postcard collection thats for sure. Especially because the subject is a cat.

Go for a walk down Ladybird lane

2010-07-19T16:51:00.000-07:00

They say that to just a piece of card stock with stickers attached to it, is not enough to constitute a good ATC. I have to agree with that statement. However there is a line and where as some people would say no stickers whatsoever Im open minded. And its for cards like this one I remain so.

Because although clearly the ladybirds that stalk around the window frame are stickers. They are used in an artistic and cool way.
So much so I thought they had earnt a mention for when someone uses stickers well on an Art card. I found it here on Imetty's Flickr gallery. It does have an pretty bow on the top too. (sorry it just had to be mentioned).

Her name is Lola the Rabbit

2010-07-17T13:19:00.000-07:00

Lola the bunny. What an adorable little critter to make for a wish. I love the warm orange fabric this stuffie has been made from, it was what first caught my eye. Its not the spots, I just cant help it. Like a bee to honey I love orange its such a warm colour.
This bunny though looks so well made, she even has a pompom for a tail, which is a really nice tactile touch just like the button eyes and ribbon around her neck. I hope all goes well for this swap and the young girl she has been made for. What a surprize! thank you Flickr user Het_Kleine_Woud for sharing this and the other delightful pictures of your stuffies for me to oogle at and admire. They really are quite lovely to look at bobbing about in the grasses.

60 objects one matchbox!

2010-07-16T17:13:00.001-07:00

I wonder whats inside this little match box. All wrapped up and ready to be posted by Flickr gallery owner lishmo123.
This apparently has inside it 60 objects. As part of a found object matchbox cram swap hosted on Swap-bot. Im not going to spoil whats inside but I do like some of the little metal shiney things that have gone into this. But I think the most special part is the tag and the lace ribbon that have it wrapped up securely. This really will be a treat to recieve, but Id never want to dismatle it, or take any of the careful packaged objects out from the match box.

Not my Fabergé egg

2010-07-14T16:14:00.000-07:00

This is one of the most unusual things Ive seen posted through the surface mail service in along time. Its an actual egg, decorated and with a little clock face inside. I dont think its ticking though. (apparently your not allowed to send ticking things in the post).
There is a zipper around the middle to close the egg too. Its really preculiar but I like it. It sort of has that victorian, steam punk, egg theme. By making the ordinary thing here an egg into the extra-ordinary egg clock with zipper. I very much like it, it must have taken some pacients to pattern all those swirls onto the actual egg itself too. Not to mention adding the zip. Its not the only one either, its one of three that can be seen on indygirl-cp's Flickr gallery.

Inspired Tagging

2010-07-14T15:15:00.000-07:00

In all my years of mail art this is something I have never seen before. This is what creator CraftyAnnie who posted it on her flickr gallery today calls an inspiration tag. which I can only assume to mean its an tag thats been wrapped up especially with little nick nacks and wootley bits to provide inspiration to a swap partner.

I like the sort of eccentric mix of ticket stubs and collage bits, ribbons and buttons. I dont know about her partner but I certain get inspired by this, to bundle together a tag of my own for some swapper in the future. This is a really well made object. Though if I had recieved it. Im not sure where I would have put it.

It's Been 'sew' long...

2010-07-13T15:43:00.000-07:00

In case anyone was in any doubt this ATC is the right size, how do you think i know, well it has a tape measure on it telling us all so. I do hope this is an ATC though, as there was no description of what it is.
Thats possibly one of the most creative uses of a tape measure on an art card ive seen. Not simply stuck to the card but woven through four simple holes. What a great idea to link it to the text on the card 'Its been sew long...' since its sewn onto the card.
But this isnt the only clever ATC posted by artist Fabricmom in her flickr gallery. There are a handful of other very delicate and lovely looking cards for us to admire.

Forky Trinket's

2010-07-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

Nope its not melted and Im very sure you cant eat your dinner with it either, Nor would you want to. This here curved and twisty fork has been cleverly made into a piece of folk jewelry. with extra bits. Charms and a colourful ribbon on the end too. Im not certain Ive ever thought of making jewelry like this out of the silver ware but now Ive seen this the thought does cross my mind. Just what could you make from a fork? Im sure Ive got a set of plyers I could use to twist the forky bits.
Thank you Vendetti's who shared this photo on their Flickr gallery. Now Im going to have to go out there and ruin a few forks trying to emulate this charming braclet.

Piggy-gurumi

2010-07-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

The art of crochet has never been cuter. In a very enviable way I just couldnt resist writing about this pink little piggy as I logged onto swap-bot this afternoon. And Im not usually a crochet fan (I tell a lie, I have quite a few cute crochetted goodies, I just cant make my own *shame face*).
I love the neatness of the finish especially the single wooly thread that marks out the line where the tiny trotters of the piggy are. Fabulous work, even more so because its on proudmama-77's Flickr gallery and as I write this actually up for trade! *gasp* If your curious go look for yourself, shes also made some absolutely fabulous hello kitty toys too.

Matches in Matches

2010-07-12T05:23:00.000-07:00

Not just a match box but this one has been upsized just for the lovely lady who recieved it and posted it up on their Flickr gallery here. Thank you gemgirlart.
What caught my eye though with this one, was look there in the middle, the little yellow box. Its actually a teeny tiny matchbox. With teeny tiny matches!
I am most pleased by this. I like teeny things, holding them makes me feel like a giant and thats cool. But I also like the fact that because this box was upsized it made room for so much more, not just beads and buttons but tiny stamps and flowers. Must have been quite a squeeze though to get them all in though.

Hold on. thats a bookmark

2010-07-11T13:14:00.000-07:00

Not just any ordinary bookmark. I couldnt help but notice where this fabulous Alice in wonderland themed bookmark came from. It was made by a swapper named Naurwen. From the group, I love to swap. One of the first ladys on the swap-bot site I ever had the pleasure of swapping with.
Im very glad to see shes still making delightful pieces of mail art for folks to show on their flicker gallerys. Just like lildamselfly has with this. This is certainly a book make though Id find too special to use, I must be a meanie and abuse my bookmarks to death. Id want to keep it special in the draw with my other mail art.

and if your curious take a peek here for the swap that made this possible.

I cant believe its not Jam?

2010-07-10T02:22:00.000-07:00

In the past I have tried my hand at doing faeries in jars, I wasnt very good at it and found the whole process a bit too fiddly (this is from the woman who spends hours on a single ATC). It wasnt to my liking. However I am producing Envy rays when I see this fine jar with its captured faerie. Not only is this picture of it fabulously taken and edited, but the jar itself is something anyone would be well happy to have in their mail art collection. even if they arent a massive fan of Faeries and captured critters in jars.
I love the netting over the top. It makes you feel like there could be rare jam involved, and who doesnt like Jam? Have a look here at Debapaka's Flickr gallery for more lovely pictures and some sent swaps. Gosh what a great surprize this jar must have been for her partner for the, Captured Creature Bottles Swap at swap-bot.com.

Springy Mouse Matchbox

2010-07-09T05:38:00.000-07:00

A spring themed match box caught my eye this afternoon. Mostly for the attention to detail it has springing about ontop of it. Spring + Springs. tee hee. AND! with mouses. whats not to like about that. As soon here on Christie1981's Flicker gallery.
I mean goodies aside I really do like the little mice ontop, which are made from Polymer clay. But I also like all the little extras with this swap. As well as a nicely written little. I cant express how much it is appreciated when a partner takes a little time to write a note to explain about what just arrived through my post box. Boo! to the people who just send little post its. A letter like this one is far far more friendly and nice to recieve.... and springy mice too.

Simply Pleasurable Art Book

2010-07-08T14:21:00.000-07:00

Couldnt help but notice this treasure this evening as I was pootling about the forums. What a delightful Art book made by Flickr user: girl_with_the_glasses. Made for another swapper for a simple pleasures swap over on Swap-bot. I can only wonder what her partner put for their likes and simple happy things. Bunting?
Isnt everyone a fan of it in some way, even the people who live in houses where bunting wouldnt match the decoration. Like mine *sad face* well at least it can be appreciated from afar, while looking at art like this. What a wonder this must have been to recieve.

An ATC everyday of the year

2010-07-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

Thats right, an ATC every day of the year, 365 days of art cards. Nope not posted and sent by kind friends and swappers but each made by artist Jenny and her charming new blog. Here. Where she intends to complete a project which will mean she has to make a card a day for an entire year.
And its already begun. this card here on the left is from day 1 of the endevor. I cant help but wish anyone good luck with any project of this nature, as I have tried to reinspire myself in the past with similar and gotten about a month in before other ideas have whisked me away from continueing. Im a butterfly in a flowerbed when it comes to that sort of thing. But gosh I would love to see this project of Jenny's finished. 365 cards is no small feat and they are going to look absolutely spiffing together.

Return of the Mermaid

2010-07-08T04:29:00.000-07:00

As with all crafting things, you take a break then one day. Its like. I need to check in today just to see how things are ticking over. Well I did that today and was astounded by the new talent that has found its way over to Swap-bot, especially when I saw this delightful mermaid.
As seen on Mafiosagrrl's Flicker gallery along with a dozen other delightful artistic treats.
I mean what I like about this image is not only does this ATC use a mixture of a hand drawn image but also texture in the woobly weedy stuff in the background. Just the right balence of the two. Though Mafiosagrrl worries about the fact the mermaids hands and tail go over the ATC's edge. I think that only adds character to the card, as if shes swimming right off the card!

Panda Burns Paper?

2010-03-09T05:29:00.000-08:00

Im still and always will be a huge fan of ATC's so its no surprize that one of the first posts this year is ATC related. And I just couldnt miss this oppertunity out to mention how much I liked this pair of key ATC's.
I love the paper in the background, the shades of burnt music sheet paper that matches the brown colour on the old key (at least I hope its an old key and not the lost key to the artists loft eek!). Thank you Shanda Panda for sharing these very well taken photos on your flickr gallery for everyone to see.

Delightful Patterns

2010-03-09T05:23:00.000-08:00

When I saw this I thought it was a stand alone ATC, but ah no no. Surprize to me its not. Its actually a sheet of patterned card made for making other things out of.
Take a moment to consider, what a fabulous idea that is. Rather than popping out to the shop for papers to stick to the back of decorated art objects. Flicker Gallery owner: Jenawin has opted for the ultimate make your own. It looks fantastic.

Have a look at her gallery, theres several more delightfully hand made sheets. Great idea. I think once I get enough space in my craft room, this is something Id love to have a go at making my own. If only so I can give sheets of paper a sort of feel to them, that nothing store bought can give.

A hard choice of Bookmark?

2009-10-26T11:35:00.000-07:00

Ive never much ever entertained bookmark swaps, proberbly the fear of the unknown, perhaps also a worrying mix of maybe having a bad partner who doesnt put as much umph. into their bookmark as I put into mine. or someone who doesnt like my style. This of course is paranoia.
I know this as I sit looking over this set of four. Proudly shown off by flickr gallery owner: jaceY (MY) all four recieved from one kind lady named Barbara. According to her notes she'll only be keeping one of these four fabulous creations too. Its gonna be a very hard choice for her. Personally I find them all appealing in their own way.

Ginger Bread Invasion

2009-10-25T08:30:00.000-07:00

You know Christmas is just around the corner (well the moment the Halloween goodies are up in stores next to the christmas things they've had out since June). Well you mostly know it when you see your first set of ginger bread men, well I do anyways.
I really like these, better than a uniform set, these are all different and goodness me is that some burbery like felt? (that one by far is my favorit, it has stars for eyes, who cant like those). The tops are cut with Sizzix die, the bottoms I hand cut and the whole set are made by Flicker Gallery owner: gcl1964 who also has a delightfully seasonal snowman quilt there too. Its certainly worth a look if your curious about other hand made wonders like these guys. it really all just makes me want to get festive already, and I have been trying to resist the urge since the begining of the month. Not till mid november *pokes self in eye*

Strangest Fruit House

2009-09-28T04:37:00.000-07:00

I was wondering what kind of strange fruit this was, thus had to have a closer look. And goodness! Thats no fruit its a house, a tiny one, a tiny pin cushion house!
Thus of course because of my confusion deemed it worthy of an honorable mention here. Its actually quite beutifal work. With little beads for a flower bed under the windows blanket stitched on with felt. I definatly couldnt have match this little thing, if Id have made one for myself. So well done Flicker user: coolmom45 and thank you for sharing this and the other few photos of the pin cushion house.
Im just curious what colour of felt the roof is made of, its very peculiar, but in a good way.

Wonderland...in a tiny box

2009-09-09T11:58:00.000-07:00

Just how much can you fit in one match box. this was my first thought on seeing this delightful stash of shines that you'd have to have the skills of houdeeni to piece into a box so tiny as the little blue one Flicker User: DeeLee209 has decorated so beautifally and shared with us.
I do like the small ATC's though that have been made, I confess that mini ATC's have gotten me very curious lately though I have yet to take the plunge into another crafting obsession. I do like the small buttons and extra bits of ephemera, theres alot to look at, lots to touch and play with. This match box is definatly a winner as far as covering all bases, it has literally a bit of everything. Its wonderful.

Out box of the Swapbotter

2009-09-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

You know your a swap-botter when....
When your out box looks something like this happy heap of post. Yes these arent recieved items but these are a lovely photo of the post one of the swap-bot users has been sending out. Among these include a craft swap, a RAK and other goodies. I especially love the use of happy pictures on the envies.
Thank you for sharing Flickr user: mesha, Yes? I had a little look around her gallery and this girl does seem to do alot of RAK's which is something I very much respect and admire in a swapper, keep up the good work girly.

Felt Fancies

2009-08-28T17:23:00.000-07:00

I remember answering a question a few days ago on the forum about just how big French Fancies were for someone. Then saw this photo. These french fancies were made by Swap-bot user: Lisajhoney who having visited England, now misses them quite a bit.
I have to say I like the pink one best, but then those are my favorit flavour, and especailly since you can get the really really really big ones in that flavour too. Blergh I say to the chocolate ones though blergh!
Moving away from the food critque, I think these are really neatly made French Fancies, and really worthy of showing off. Id never know how to get the icing to behave itself putting it over the top in a nice swirl pattern.

Fabulous Fantastic Cupcakes

2009-08-27T17:21:00.000-07:00

The title for this swap 'Fab Cupcake swap' and it is indeed fabulous, just look at all the lovely little nick nacks here Swap-bot user: nadithings has put together. I mean this swap is just one of those packets you couldnt not want to recieve even if cupcakes werent your thing. I mean it has little bits of tap, a cake tin, cake bottomy bits and even cake flavoured stamps.
My goodness me. I love to see swaps like this where the sender really has put all the effort in, I do hope Nadithings gets her share back as this clearly was a swap worth showing off. I especially have to say I love the extra little stamps, but then I do like my tiny stamps at the moment. its all just as good.

Tiny Houses for Tiny Swappers

2009-08-26T04:04:00.001-07:00

If the world was tiny and we all lived in match boxes I would love to have this one as my house, what an ossum idea for a swap package this is. With of course tiny tiny swap-bot packages on the soafa. And a tiny travis and swap-bot evelope in the photo frames.
It almost makes me want to start making mini match boxes again, though I doubt I could compete with swap-bot user: Cobaltgypsy who made this. She's made a little treasure thats for sure, I mean it even has tiny little curtains and a plant, truely this would be the tinyest of swap-botters tiny house if we did all like in match boxes. But where the letter box? oh noes!

Woot about Recycling

2009-08-25T03:26:00.000-07:00

I have been comenting alot on the creative wonders swappers have been putting together in that sort of make do and mend style of the 1940's (also known to the common swapper as Recycling). Its no surprize I tottered along another swap this morning and from the Crafty Recyclers group over on swap-bot. They were tasked with creating an owl but not buying anything new for the owl.
Thus these two little fellas were born, made of buttons and an pair of old shirts. Swap-bot user: midsummermuse has really done well, I love the second one and how the seam is cleverly hidden under an dark t-shirt wing. Fantastic stuffies well done.

Pretty Lucky Parcel

2009-08-24T03:19:00.000-07:00

Again I have to write about Lucky Parcels, because Ive been checking the new swaps listed roll on Swap-bot and seen another lucky parcel swap I am a little too nervous to join. However without joining I can still marvel at the little bags of goodies people make and take photos of.
This one here being the perfect example of a lovely, yet very simple and vintage styled lucky parcel, and part of an identicle set of three. This is every reason why I am a little nervous of joining in with the parcel swaps. Its just lovely, I mean even if I recieved it, I wouldnt want to touch it. Though those are my hording instincts I swear coming into play. Thank you Flickr gallery owner: AmandaCowell for sharing your photos with us.

Pin topped wonders

2009-08-22T04:23:00.000-07:00

'Crazy?' I wouldnt hardly call these pin toppers that, I would however call them Ossum! These were made as a custom Etsy order for a swapper on Swap-bot. And if your wondering what they are. They are Polymer clay pin toppers. What a lovely idea for a craft, considering I am terrible for sewing over my pins or even leaving them in garments and other things. With toppers like these owls, gnomes, mushrooms, hedgehogs and cakes you'll never do that. or loose them for that matter.

Thank you Flickr gallery: Sweet*Clementine for sharing these lovely photos of your toppers, now housed on a pin cushion jar home of their own.

Junk ATC's dont forget your scraps

2009-08-21T08:32:00.000-07:00

Heres an interesting challenge. Create an ATC from 'junk', this is what Swap-bot user: creationsbygena has done with this example. As it was the requirement for the junk ATC swap she'd taken part in.
You had to use up the left over bits and pieces from other swaps and pile them together to make something new. Its like a fabulous recycling collage of lovelyness in a tiny ATC sized package. It most certainly gets a thumbs up from this swapper. It always makes me smile to see swaps go out like this, as I can tell you, with all of my mini zine, inchie and ATC crafting normally the left overs are shuffled off into the bin. I can say Id keep them, infact I used to. But then, I had drawers of bits, with no where to send them. Amen to the junk atc swap!

Kaboodles of Things

2009-08-20T02:57:00.000-07:00

Ive just started swapping 'kawaii' things again recently. Now Im a complete newbie to the concept I wont lie. But I love the theme. I also love seeing well put together packages like this one. It literally has a little bit of everything and its all clean, pristine and for the most part I assume brand new.
Swap-bot users: SugarVixen and Jemboawa should be especially proud of themselves for putting this together as a private swap through the site. I especially am envious of the tiny green devil duckie. Now sweet and evil all at the same time.

Fabric Bobbly chunky inchies

2009-08-19T06:17:00.000-07:00

I have always liked my inchies and these days muse over new ways to collect and display them. Since my current plans are coin sleeves that collectors use. Im left wondering where else to keep my more 3D inchies... I feel always attracted to them. I guess thats why these caught my eye today.
For a first set of inchies they are bright vibrant and chunky, great stuff. A sign of things to come from Flicker gallery: tinymatchboxstudio perhaps.
But I would feel terrible if I was their partner swap-bot user: Caresalot taking them from the pretty paper backing. as I say though I am struggling with this whole how to display my inchies dilemma.

Wiggly Sister

2009-08-19T06:06:00.000-07:00

Havent written up on things Ive seen in weeks. really letting team trinket down. But hold on. because Im writing again. because I have seen the light and it has blue wiggles for hair...well maybe not but this Dotee dolly does. and I think she is fabulous.
Made by Flickr user: Marymint1 I just couldnt ignore it as I logged into the swap-bot site this afternoon. Im in awe of the wiggly hair. thats such a cool idea for making a Dotee really stand out among a crowd, like ths one is. As if you can see in the background she has shy sisters. A tree branch though does make for a great display prop for Dotee's. If you want to see them dangle a bit more freely.

I Spy Swaps

2009-06-30T03:43:00.000-07:00

I feel a bit of a cheater this morning as I write this. You see I was looking through the usual pictures on Swap-bot to add to the blog and saw this one. I was curious. I check it out and then I find out that this is from the Totem Animal and a Trinket swap, well of course I had to sign up for this swap. And that this infact was the package coming my way from my partner Miahalf. Woops.
I think its the first time Ive gotten a peek at a swap coming my way before it has even been posted before. Which is pretty cool. Those flowers do look very pretty, they are Thyme. A lovely herb to use in making charms and other flavoured things. I wonder if Mia has chosen an animal for me yet. *gets excited* I cannot wait for this swap to arrive with me now.

Dollop of Paint?

2009-06-22T05:14:00.000-07:00

I saw this photo today of this matchbox and was amazed it looked to me at first like a delicate dollop of paint, but it wasnt anything like that at all, it was far cooler. It happens to be chunky wool wrapped around a match box and among that wool are beads and other goodies sewn into it. It looks on a closer inspection absolutely lovely. Better than a dollop of paint.
What a lovely selection of beady goodness though from inside too. I can see a few beads Id have stolen away for projects of my own. tee hee. Curses! I missed out on this bright red box. I really do need to get my act in gear and get back into making match boxes again, but the mini zines are also far too much fun. Thank you very much Flickr gallery owner: Mad Mummy for sharing these photos.

Inch big Apples

2009-06-18T11:02:00.000-07:00

Its rare these days I find time to photograph my work, rarer still that I hop along and share it on the blog. Well after having been bitten recently by the flake fish, I have been prompted to start taking photos again and scanning things. Having lost one of the best chunky pages Ive ever made...Its sad.
But these are my contribution to the Keepers of Avalon group swap, Apples of Avalon. The idea behind the swap is that. Avalon is the old british word for Lava, which also means Apple, Hence Avalon is known as the island of apples. That being said I thought I would make Inchies for this project, I like Inchies and I like apples. I hope my two partners share the love however tee hee. The idea of what to send was vague, though it had to be something my partners would like, since both lovely ladys like my drawings, I had to draw something, and Faerie themed apples came into the mix somewhere. It was very fun to do, though next time perhaps I will produce ATC's. An Inch for me is just not enough!

Po-Pa Pops in the Post!

2009-06-16T03:54:00.000-07:00

Now whats this? I thought to myself as I logged in this morning for a bit of a browse through the swap-bot forums. Its not your usual crafted handmade object. Well no. No its not. But its proof that you dont nessisarily need to be good at hand made objects to swap via. the site. As there is a growing contingent of swap-botters who collect Blind-box toys and swap them with each other.
whats a blind box toy? Well they are toys kind of like those Kinder eggs you get over here in the UK. You buy them and can get a random toy from a st of many. To collect. Its all very exciting. And this one happens to be. No. 1 in a set. Thank you Swap-bot user: Gem for sharing these photos of this little chap. Im sure he really was a wish come true within your collection.

Swirly Butterflys and Ribbon

2009-06-15T05:12:00.000-07:00

I dont post ATC's Ive found on swap-bot often enough here on the blog, here I attempt to change that, by posting this delightful find made by Flickr user: Ebony Jade. Its really nice to see a card that isnt confined to the edges of the drawing space, that Ebony has taken ribbon and gone over the lines, used really attractive backgrounds and lovely chunky butterfly embellishments to make a pretty swish looking card.
Its definatly one I would put in my own collect and horde! Because it is a really pretty card. This coming from the woman who cannot collage to save her life of course. Who only ever makes hand drawn ATC's, can you see the envy rays yet?

Kawaii Angels

2009-06-12T02:14:00.000-07:00

Looking at the reward aside, the four felty charms pictured. would you believe these are all hand made, and angelled. Whats an angel you may ask? well thats where someone who isnt a persons partner sends them items, just out of kindness rather than have them go without, because their partner hasnt sent. What makes this extra special is that the swap was only for one felty Kawaii charm. And there are four. Infact look here. There are alot more. Total kudos goes to flickr gallery owner: jplanet66. Who sent these out.
Its a real pleasure to see someone brightening up folks day on swap-bot. Especially with so many flaking on swaps just lately. Lets hope that growing trend doesnt thwart the keen and lovely people who angel.

Why do birds suddenly Appear?

2009-06-11T03:36:00.000-07:00

Following something of an attraction Ive had to birdy things today I spied this little tweety pie on the main page, Isnt he adorable. I mean all the extras aside that this little fellow was sent with, including the odd box that looks like cat biscuits for people (this cant be a bad thing! curse those furry devils for having food that looks curious enough to want to try....*innocent face*).
He was made for a 'Make a bird swap' that happened a little while ago, and he really does look delightful. really professionally crafted. I personally am a fan of the little stubby feet he has. He even has a friend.
Thank you again Swap-bot user: Flufftail for sharing another of your lovely hand sewn stuffies with the swap-bot community. One day I shall have one on my shelf. I swear...

Doodle Tweet

2009-06-10T04:19:00.000-07:00

I saw this as I tuned into swap-bot this afternoon and I just couldnt help but comment. It's a Yankee Doodle Birdie. So its a patriotic pidgeon, and a very pretty one too, I love the colouring, the little pompom collar for the bird and the tiny red button eye. Though I have yet to figure out what it is? Is it a pin badge, a magnet or just a decoration.
I dont mind what it is though. I just thought it looked quite pretty, there is another too. Look here. Though I prefer this one. tee hee. well done though to Flickr user: mscraftyt who put them up in her gallery to share with us.

I can Paint a rainbow too

2009-05-12T12:11:00.000-07:00

I havent made inchies in along time. Though you know its sights like this that make me want to make them again, Ive noticed that since I stopped more and more swap-botters have been getting into creating Inchies and not just inchies but the little folders to house them in too. Its attention to detail and a little bit of packaging and it really does show commitment to an otherwise very easy piece of mail art. What could possibly go wrong on 1 inch of card?
I do love this swap though. I think Indigo is the best one for me. Though most of all I am drawn to the packet these seven inchies came in, I love the little labels telling you which colour is wich and the rainbow on the underside of the cover. A greatly made object swap-bot user: dogfishsmum09 and thank you for sharing the picture of them too.

Pee-Po Matchbox Dotee

2009-05-09T05:08:00.000-07:00

I always pick the things I envy the most. Here i guess is one of those cases where I admire the little chappy inside the matchbox with their happy mini-dotee face and cute green leaf like hair. But that I also admire the little matchbox the fellow travels in. Maybe its the leafy flowery fabric. Actually its almost certainly that. How very cool is it. Its the sort I would buy going, mmmm thats very cool. Then save for that special something, but never actually make it.
Im glad swap-botter: magicjessnrach has the will power to chop it up and make pretty little dotees from it thats for sure. I love the button used on the box too, that I would also save in my horde (yes I have a horde). It looks sewn on, but thats just a few dints in the plastic. Very smartly matched to the fabric too. An Excellent swap for partner swap-botter: ChristyC11.

Potatoe's that talk?

2009-05-08T09:13:00.000-07:00

Not a typical post. But I had to comment on this passing photo, found while looking through. Swap-botter: gem's photos of happy things she had recieved from the Etsy Addicts group. Etsy of course being my new obsession too.

I had to comment on this though after reading this...
You say:
"whatthehelliswrongwithyourPOTATO?"
the potato says: " ... I YAM what I YAM ..."

It made me giggle. Though I also admired the little nick nacks Gem had recieved from Swap-botter: ellie1200 a partner ive had in the past, who spoils the people she sends to rotten. I lucky we're not potatoes really isnt it?

Orange Its the new Pink

2009-05-07T17:07:00.001-07:00

A bright welcome back to swapping was waiting for me when I checked into swap-bot today. How adorable is this warm orange themed swap, sent by Swap-botter: tinymatchboxstudio. Im not sure what I like the best, I love the little bits of ephemera, theres just something about all the twiddly bits of flotsam you can collect from envies like this via. swap-bot. Your not sure half the time why or where it came from but its there and oddly very appealing.

I also love that orange match-box in the corner with the flower on it. Its like woosh! Im an orange flower box. Have a closer look here. Its all very stylish too. An excellent package. Great work tiny on really making your partner happy.

I hope it wasnt Forever to make

2009-04-20T03:04:00.000-07:00

One day I will sit down and watch this vampire thing everyone raves about known as twilight. But till I do I can at least envy over the twilight themed goodies people are out there creating. Like this necklace for example. Really well done for a first time at making jewelry of this sort, by its creator Swap-bot user: Spencerette. This reminds me greatly of the sorts of necklaces I have been sent in the past made from domino tiles or scrabble tiles, but its very clearly not the same. Its different and I guess thats why it attracted my attention. The line 'I have forever' seems very fitting for a vampire, though I do not know the Tv program I do love my vampire fiction. Good choice of words and well made. This is what I like to see.

Baggies of Buttons

2009-04-07T14:51:00.000-07:00

Ive shown button swaps before, they are usually a half dozen buttons presented on a stylish piece of pretty card. heres a different take on the whole button swappy thing. Here are some lovely little pockets full of Ugly, Eloquent and Vintage buttons. Each labelled so not to be confusing and with a cool elephant patterned pouch to keep them safe inside.
This was sent out by Swap-bot user: Sunnyblueskies, who Im usually writing about to comment about the lovely stuffies and felt made things she makes. Like this one here I almost posted here too.

Speckled Frogs

2009-04-06T15:48:00.000-07:00

Its hard to really appreciate just how small this box pictured actually is, this is an altered Matchbox. With a little frog sat on a happy little lilly pad and butterflys and flowers, all under 2 inches big.
That for me would be enough in a swap. Id be happy with a box decorated like this, Id sit it on my to keep safe shelf.
Of course inside... it gets better, because in the little froggy box with all its lovely painstaking details are all of these. Theres a happy green ladybird and even an whole felt tree.
What a lovely match box, Flickr user: Mad Mummy who made this must have devoted one heck of alot of time to making this look as nice as it does, But not that much as here is another example of a match box she has made in a very similar style. Only we dont get to see what surprizes were inside of that one. Boo!

Glitter and Sparkles

2009-04-06T15:40:00.000-07:00

I dont think this blog talks about ATC's enough, maybe theres not enough people sharing their cards via. the main swap-bot site, but its true. So guess what. Today I want to talk ATC. Rwr!
And I want to talk glitter and sparkles. Because at heart everyone who swaps is a mag pie and the shiney object is the way to their heart. Now take a look at this sparkly card here, Made for a Glitter and Sparkles themed ATC swap by Flickr user: nicht-Fisch-nicht-Maus;'s. I love the photo of the rose here, such a well focused picture of the corner decoration upon this card, a really nice show of colour and style. The card also has some pretty gem stones upon it, but you'll have to take a closer look for yourself to see those. (mmmm shiney objects).

The Morning Mail

2009-04-04T18:02:00.000-07:00

It arrived today at 8am, usually Id be asleep at that time on a weekend, but I was awake, hehe. Sort of. The post man still got a bit of a flash of leg though as I answered the door for this package wrapped up in blankets. (the postman was moderately disturbed). You would think he would be used to it by now.
I had to wait though till this evening to open it. Had a very busy day. It was fantastic though when I finally got to opening the package. All shiney cute and new bits and pieces like those pictured. Infact the little red thing is what they call a Wee Devil. The sworn enemy of the Wee Ninjas. (all little felt stuffies) All sent from a private swap between myself and Swap-bot user: OoOlalavee, who has been fuelling my addiction for blind box toys (oh noes!).
OoOla also sent me three sweeties, the kind she likes. I fed two of them to my Mr. After he kindly showed me the mashed up sweeties on his tounge, he agreed they were actually quite nice. So I had the thrid (a purple one) they kinda tasted a bit like Mowam, which was cool. I dont normally like foreign candys, not enough E numbers tee hee. These were really good though.

Inchies Spell Things Out Y'know

2009-04-04T16:47:00.000-07:00

One day I will get all the inchies made with single words on them placed carefull middle, bottom or top and I will write a small but interesting book out of them, infact wouldnt that be a very cool idea for a swap to make a 10 by 40 inch page of inchies with single words on them telling a story....oooow yes, I like that idea indeedy.
These were made for the 100 inchie project by Flicker user: All_Things_Nice and I have to say I arent a fan of the style of ATC, but i do like these, i think its the soft but there and looking at you background colourings. Especially on the fairy inchy. Love that image too, but then I also like the little bird twittering away in its nest.

RwRRRArgghhh! spit Monster!

2009-04-03T17:51:00.000-07:00

My gosh I almost lost a finger I swear, well almost and I mean at this range considering this isnt my stuffie, thats one hell of a first monster. I do love the effects done though in making this chap.
I love the mouth, with the wiggly string for teeth, I am gonna add that to my notes for future Chunky Book Projects because that looks really shiney good. As Well as the patch work eye. Its almost dangling off, but its not its really quite there. Really ossum cool monster here created by Swap-bot user: TerryF who also makes some pretty darn cool stuffies all around, I have to say Im a fan of her circular pink owl, that almost made mention here on this blog, well up untill I saw a tooth monster Rwr! (Monsters always win over owls in my mind).

I want to be a TREE

2009-04-02T09:59:00.000-07:00

A tree themed swap that caught my eye, Well I tell a lie it didnt so much catch my eye as be one of the swaps I had on my watch list for an rainy day project that fell short of any rainy days for me to sign up and play with the idea.
However swap-bot user: RoseHips here appears to have had one, or several from the quality of the objects made for this swap. Im looking at them individually over on her flickr gallery now, here and here and here. Gosh! that is devotion to a subject matter. I really like everything put together here, I knew I should have signed up for the swap too *sulks* Your partners must have been extatic when they recived such lovely items.

Cupcake Invasion Squad

2009-03-31T15:36:00.000-07:00

I dont think I ever shall ask 20 cupcakes to organize themselves for a photo, as this heap of cupcakey goodness shows they need to be as disorganized as they can possibly get and still look marvellous.
I entirely have swap-bot to blame for the new levels of cupcake appreciate I have gained lately and these are by far some of the best Ive seen. I think its the cherry ontop.
I dont think Ive ever seen a knitted cup cake with a cherry ontop quite like these ones (and there are 20 of them! they out number me).
And I entirely blame Swap-bot user: Rengawk for feeding this appreciation of mine for cupcakey themed things. I swear it gets me one step closer to knitting every time I see a finished stuffie like these *shakes her fist*

A Rainbow of Zines

2009-03-31T10:07:00.000-07:00

Its odd these pop up today, Ive just spent the past two days working my heart out at a Zine of my own, and gosh! My project is far from finished. These are defiantly something to aspire toward (and more than a finished product...something im bad with, always working and never finishing anything doh).
Seven mini zines. I love the photograph too, a rainbow flower of mini zines with a great title 'How to build yourself up when the world gets you down' I think all us swap botters need one of these right now, after recent drama.
Thank you again Swap-bot user: Flufftail for sharing you very apt. creation, though at least this time not a stuffie, just as great work. I defiantly look forward to having a go at creating mini zines like this if future swaps come along.

Spring Ladys Matchbox

2009-03-30T05:56:00.000-07:00

What does your partner like? This is often something that can only be answered by a full and well punctuated profile. (that's my responsible thought for the day done and dusted). Course if you have a lovely profile that's easy to read it does lead partners to create pretty lovely things like this matchbox here
Flicker user: dummond_farm made hers based on the fact her partner liked Victorian themed things, and apparently if you put the drawer inside and stand it up it almost looks like a little lady in a spring gown, with the little pink rose ontop and the white lace. Thats really creative. I like the box so much more than the contents knowing that there is a little story like that to its making.

Chick-tastic

2009-03-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

Easter is coming. Its been coming for well over a month and happy chicks and bunnys are popping up even more than they were a couple of weeks ago. Its brilliant, because while the weather is showers and patchy clouds, the colours here on the site are bright and green, yellow and pink.

So I had to share this picture I found. Its a little fluffy chick, I have to say I love the fact he has an easter egg in hand and its tiny. I could just see myself recieving this swap only to have my young Mr. steal it away and use it for a soft pillow to sleep on like the house cat that he is.
He has really cool tweedly feet too. Regardless of those he would still use the chick for a snuffly cushion. Thank you Flickr user: Mandalarama for sharing a wonderful stuffie.

Inch big Ladybirds

2009-03-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

Small and tiny, crawly but not creepy. and I mean the ladybirds not the inchies. But arent these just adorable.
I mean yes I say that about alot of things, but Im looking at these and wanting them in my inchie collection. (the fact that they werent meant for me, and that I havent swapped inchies in the last 2 months means Id have had no hope of aquiring them *sulks*).
I think the one in the bottom right particulalry has my sway, I love the background papers pattern, pretty cool looking. So I envy Swap-bot user: Ninou's partner 100%, but I reckon we should see more Inchies by the swapper, if these are just a drop in the ocean of pretty ossum things that she can make.

Firey Things on Rainy days

2009-03-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

what a fantastic stuffie. Simple as.
For those who havent already recognised the character, this is Calcifer the fire spirit from the Ghibli Movie, Howls moving castle. I loved this movie. I love them all in their own way but I have to admit, its a wrestling match between Howls moving castle and Princess Monoke(I think I spelt that right). For the best.
I know for a fect though Ive paid for stuffies of characters from the Ghibli movies and they havent been as good as this stuffie. Hes really well made, take a closer look here. At no point does it look like the lady who made him, Flickr user: carottepower,got bored and podged the end (something I am infamously guilty of). Really well done and I look forward to seeing other ossum stuffies like him.

America Cupcakes...Wooooosh!

2009-03-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

A little while ago Swap-bot user: dBowie created a Wishlist Chunky Book page swap, where you get to create two pages for your partner on one of their three given themes.
This swap is due out this week and I figured before it was time to post it out on its way, I would share a photo of what I have made for my partner. Her wishes included vintage (which isnt something I can do very well), cupcakes and the 4th of july. Being a brit I guess it is hard for me to understnad about quite how important the 4th of july is in the USA, however I can understand the importance of cupcakes. So what a better way to create a page for my partner than with America themed cupcakes!
Better yet. the bottom cupcake page with the really REALLY long tail has a pop up part to it too. Because everyone likes fire works and cupcakes too. I have to give special thanks to those in Swap-bot chat the night I made these pages, for listening to my very silly questions about how many stars and stripes there are (I didnt have a clue!).

Simply black, white and pink

2009-03-24T04:46:00.000-07:00

Look at all the bits of happy here that came out of this Whimsy jar. Wow! though I admit they look sort of like little sweets in the picture to the right, and perhaps a tiny bit edible. I would advise against it, because a closer look with present you with a mixture of black, white and pink beads, stampy bits, scrabble tiles and other lovelies. All sent to Swap-bot user: Ozrob as part of a personalized jar swap with Flickr user: Smoke_and_mirror's.
That must have been an amazing package to recieve. I can remember the last jar I got and it wasnt nearly as stuffed full as this one, it was stuffed to the brim and I have yet to be disapointed by a jar I have recieved. But I have to totally envy Ozrob here. What a fantastic jar to get, I bet that was a day brightener whether Smoke_and_Mirrors thinks so or not. Dont worry about being too creative with the jar on the outside, Sometimes the simplest things can really stand out because they are just that, Simple.

Buttons and Cloth

2009-03-23T10:05:00.000-07:00

I cannot sew, but I appreciate those who can. I also find it oddly appealing to collect together bits of sewing kit and things along those lines, I'm always the first to put my hand into the button jar and have a play with the shiny buttons in there, sorting them by colour or making pictures with them.
Im sure Swap-bot user: Wenot must have the same thoughts, because after having a browse through their flickr gallery, they have some of the most delightful photos of hand sewn goodies, or well things they have recieved to make more with. From buttons and brads to beautifally coloured fabrics. My only problem is with swaps like that, Id be too delicate with the fabrics etc. to ever use them up, Id always be saving them for the extra special project or package. Then enevitably never use them.

White Rabbits

2009-03-22T13:07:00.000-07:00

Like it or not, it is infact almost easter already. A new array of lovely spring themed swaps have already begun to pop up around Swap-bot. And its left me wondering, just where the year has gone, its gone SO quickly that we are already at the end of March, when I swear yesterday we were still finishing up with new year and christmas. *gasp*
But at least the good weathers here. And better still the new array of swaps that people are sharing images of have brought things like this lovely needle felted bunny and his bunny toys out for us to have a look at.
Made by Swap-bot user: Sunnyblueskies. He must have taken some pacients to craft because yep, that is a match box in the background and I do assume him and his goodies all fit inside, as he was made for an Easter themed mini matchbox swap.

Sometimes Swaps get ontop of you

2009-03-22T12:46:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, I mean that quite literally here, after having spotted this lovely photo of an energetic blue owl stuffie made by Flickr user: shakeslikejelly. On what I can assume is her less than amused and slightly tormented looking pet dog named Bob. Gosh look at those eye brows, I can just see those being used against his good lady as a weapon of aquiring more treats.

The owl however is a lovely stuffie. It sort of reminds me of the owl from sinbad, at least I think its from that old movie, it was a little iron owl. I think its the eyes. I love them, they are all big and owly. (and yes thats a technical term). I cannot see why Bob would look so unimpressed by it, because I am, thats for sure.

An Attic of Pink Skulls

2009-03-21T07:02:00.000-07:00

When I looked at this swap I thought this was another of those little boxes that contain half sized ATC's you know the match boxes that had begun to spring up in swaps this year (I at least never noticed them before this year anyways...hmmm). But its not. Its a lovingly put together whimsy chest and part of a much larger skulls and pink Attic swap sent by Swap-bot user: Salfra. And its really well put together, it is the sort of package I love to see go out to another, well thought out...maybe a little too pink for my liking but thats beside the point.
Here is a look at the whole thing Swap-bot user: craftaddict02 had to share with us. I love one of the comments on the stickers 'My hubby says he'll leave me if I keep crafting.....I'll sure miss him' Gosh my young Mr. can share that pain. Sometimes I wonder if the house is under seige from my crafting ways tee hee and Im glad to know its not just mine.

Pins and Cushions and Pins

2009-03-19T17:33:00.000-07:00

Pin-cushions come in all shapes and sizes and colours on swap-bot it seems from the bizzare eye shaped bottle cap pin cushions we've all had a go at making, then given up on and ended up with the much more simple cupcake bottle cap pin-cushion (or at least I have).
I noticed this swap, and it is no exception to the rule. Pin-cushions are everywhere on swap-bot today (I have a small selection made by my good friends in the Glitter Gal's group.

This very tidy cushion shows off a neat square design with a button middle. Have a closer look. I mean what I say when i say this is tidy. Compared to my attempts at making my own. this is exceptional and the colours all match. Even the pair of pins in the photo match. All put together by Swap-bot user: Dreadnoughtdesigns fantastic piece of work. Well done.

Last of the Snows

2009-03-19T04:25:00.001-07:00

Possibly the last wintery swap we will see for a little while, but its good to know the sun is on its way. This little snow flake reminds me of all the good things that have been exchanged over the past winter season. Things added to my collection I shall be treasuring till Im an old crinkly woman.
I do hope whoever does recieve this bottle cap magnet does the same, its a very simple creation but its very pretty, Id definatly put it on my fridge with the growing collection of swap-bot magnets I have there.
What I am pondering however is how Swap-bot user: peacewytch happened got that picture in the middle of the snowflake so flawlessly, because when I try anything so fiddly I often end up with a gluey mess. Well done.

Triple Heart-worthy Package

2009-03-18T18:45:00.000-07:00

What a colourful tub. I wonder what could be inside.
Well I dont really have to wonder much because Swap-bot user: Gem had to share it with us. Its a sneaky peek at her rainbow themed swap package. Gosh I would love to have a nosey inside that tub at whats being sent, because this swap cost a mighty $42 to post out. I wish I was lieing but here is the evil proof!
I thought they had stealthed shipping costs up a little bit on my end when one package cost me £3 to send when I was certain before christmas a similar lot of things cost about 50p less. Goodness me Gem I do not envy you on that bill of yours though, All kudo's though for still going ahead and posting out. Id have given the post office a snotty look and found another way to post personally. Thats definate commitment to having a happy partner. I really wish you triple hearts for the package.

Brad-a-licious

2009-03-16T13:58:00.000-07:00

Recently there has been a bit of an obsession for these little thingys called brads. Here is an example of some photographed by Flickr user: little_z and shared on the swap-bot main page. Its a really nice photo. And its an average sheet of colourful brads.
Ive never really used them in crafts I produce, since most of the things I make are sculpted from clay or painted by hand. (basically stuff I can make a great big mess with). But they make great middles for flowers, and decorations from atc's, inchies to pretty much anything you can dream up.

Matchbox Inchie Kit

2009-03-12T02:43:00.000-07:00

We've all seen kits to make things before, they usually are a bit of fluff a few blanks and instructions. Not this one however. It all fits in a matchbox.
What an inventive idea for making a kit, definatly a great way to encourage the making of more inchies, art objects I feel on swap-bot are often over looked for things like ATC's and Chunky pages etc. If someone sent me a kit like this one I would certainly be putting out some inchies regardless. This is a lovely kit, I love the individually wrapped ingredients for the wide selection of coloured inch squares you get and the bright yet simple decoration of the match box. As I say this isn just another make your own kit. This has had some serious thought put into it to make it all fit inside a matchbox (which apparently it does) and to make it look clean, unused and appealing to any swapper. Thank you Swap-bot user: sunnyblueskies for sharing this mini project with us.

Who Lives in a House like this?

2009-03-11T14:37:00.000-07:00

Its not me. But I wish it was. Its kinda a little small and stuffing filled for me and entirely made by Swap-bot user: Tooliesteaparty. what I find most endearing about this little house is that it not only has windows (which are cool). But in those tiny windows, it also has a pair of pink curtains. Wow! how ossum are then.
I wouldn't say its too stuffed ontop either Toolie, though it may be a little top heavy I wouldnt be upset by that, I think here in this photo it looks just right. You've done a fantastic job of this little Mushroom house, I still wish I could climb inside and call it my house. Its also pretty different in that the top of the mushroom isnt the standard issue red. Its blue and that makes it stand out in the mushroom crowd. Its like the little people inside have a thatched room not just the samey same old red roof tiles everyone has.

My goodness me her bottom

2009-03-11T14:21:00.000-07:00

Yes I am looking at a lovely Dotee doll's bottom here in this photo but I felt it was worthy of mention. You see what we are looking at here is the fimo bead made by Flickr user: Isabellrath, Its the first bead she has ever made using Fimo and its pretty darn cool, the black and yellow in the middle of the daisy's are really well done and the white of the flowers is clean, that I find to be the hardest thing to keep when I made anything out of Fimo myself. White never stays white.

Better yet this lovely bead is attached to the bottom of this lovely German themed Dotee, named Zenzi, she was made for an ethnic doll swap over on Swap-bot. I love the pig tails. I think we need to see more Dotee's with pig tails and maybe mini aprons too, Since I like that part also, its an extra layer, and layers are always good.

So Naughty its Nice

2009-03-11T10:41:00.000-07:00

This is a swap Ive been neglecting writing about. Not because it was bad, but because it was SO good. I dont know how I can describe this swap really. In the past week I have had so many very good swaps, its like everyday has been an special birthday and I have been spoiled rotten, this was really for me the cherry on the cake. (the extra double jam layered cake with cream and sprinkles ontop I may add).
So what did I get. I got my Faire in Camelot-Fortune tellers Swap in the post from my partner, Swap-bot user: NaughtyElf. And now your asking what the pendant pictured has to do with fortune telling, it hasnt alot to do with it but the parameters of the swap were for you to send, 1 fortune telling item (Naughty made me a full set of Runes), 1 prop or item you would find in the tent of a fortune reader (Naughty sent me a button faerie) and something to make the tent smell nice (Naughty sent me SO many herbs its crazy, and some incense too). In addition she also sent me the pendant and some really nice tea's. *rolls around her room with joy in happy circles* Yes thats not an over exaggeration, this was a delightful treat. A brilliant swap and fantastic fun for me to package for my partner also when I send my half out later on this week.

Pants and Pure Green

2009-03-11T10:27:00.000-07:00

the post came this morning and I was sad, because all that came with it was bills and boring old junk mail, ten minuets after that post arrived however, the post man ran back to my house and delivered to me the largest evelope in the world. (well possibly not, but it was pretty darn big).
Inside I found these. Several individually wrapped green presents. Squeee! This happens to be my Favorit colour swap, I am so happy to have recieved it (my favorit colour was green for this swap).
I was very dubious though when I signed up knowing that lately there have been alot of flakers and this was my first proper main swap in ages and my partner was new to the site. (not that Im a newbie hater, quite the opposite, but some of the new guys Ive helped out lately have burned me for the kindness, bah! bad times).
I am happy though to say that this was not the case with this swap clearly. Swap-bot user: muffinbianco you did really well and I wish you all the best for the site, because if all your swaps are like this one, you'll be a top swapper sure as anyone else. Just look at all these lovely bits and bobs, a faerie, some pants (yep knickers, I like them too and they fit!) and this very strange frog....hmmm. The best parts for me though were definatly the hand make cupcake stuffie and the Faerie dolly. Great stuff.

Thats not real food and now Im hungry Gr.

2009-03-10T05:06:00.000-07:00

I had to include this picture today. I havent seen another felt foody thing like it. Ive recently been trying my hand at creating these lovely objects mostly to play with or throw at various Glitter Gal's over on Swap-bot. (yes Im 24 and I still have toys). What makes this one stand out though is the fact it really doesnt look like other hand sewn felty foods, it uses sheets of felt and isnt so much stuffed, the chocolate thatching for example is woven felty strips, a very cool idea! and the icing around the red thing (for now we shall assume this tastey looking object is a cherry). Is also made of strips of felting which is another interesting technique to memorize for making felty food.
I love looking at this stuff because you can think you've seen it all when really you havent, creative people like Flickr user: pekmum are always showing you there are more ways to make the things you love. Its great to have an ever expanding pallette.

Clovers are better than Guiness

2009-03-10T04:58:00.000-07:00

St. Patricks day, may be a day to go out buy a pint of guiness and get more than a little merry at the local pub for some, but of course that isnt the way all of us Swap-botters celebrate the occasion. As you can see a lovely have embroidered Clover broach has been made by Swap-bot user: apparentlyjessy for quite an ossum looking St. paddy's day package. Id have loved to have been your partner for that swap. Even though I dont celebrate the occasion. (Guiness tastes like manky black stuff - blergh!).
I do like the broach alot and the clovery sequins that are included with this package. Its a great novelty, lets hope your partner gets them in time before the day so they can wear the shiney broach and the clips.

Treasures of Spring in my Post

2009-03-10T04:50:00.000-07:00

My post today woke me about 10 minuets before my alarm, I almost ALMOST! had a lie in. Almost. I gave the man a good glare though anyways, that was pay back for the 7am wake up earlier in the week. He however delivered safely to my door this delightful package.
These were the treasures of spring my partner Swap-bot user: Moominbrooke sent me. I love the little tea light flower, its purple and thats my favorit colour, I just dont want to use it now because its so delicate and fragile looking. Trust me to think like that eh?
The pouch by the way is a dragonfly bag and its full of colourful faerie wishes. How cool is that. Ive still to work out though what I am going to do with the things from this swap, they are so delicate, I dont want to break them.

Felty Matroyska Dolls

2009-03-09T15:28:00.000-07:00

These are very sweet. I saw the picture of the little pink dolly and had to come and have a closer look, little nesting dolls. Made for a Matroyska doll swap. Ive never before seen them made from felt but this set is lovely. Look at the mess it took to make them too. Cool! It looks like a heap of hard work went into creating them.
Swap-bot user: JenMeister Put alot of thought into them too and has even given them a story 'Squeebles are born colourless and with no way to express themselves. Their bodies are pure white, and their eyes are black pools , incapable of expression. Their only other feature is their black hair. To compensate for this, they dress in the most colourful clothes they can, they favourite colour being anything fluoro. Also they have no mouth, they express affection by forming nesting groups. Families are usually found in this conformation, similar to Matryoshka dolls! '

That is absolutely adorable. Please go leave happy cheery comments on her flickr for sharing them with us, and a link to the pattern so we can all have a go at making them for ourselves.

A Booklet to Remember

2009-03-09T10:42:00.000-07:00

Whats that. I can hear you ask it right away. I mean other than it looking pretty much like a heap of beads. Its not. Its actually one of the best swaps I have ever recieved. Its a Medieval Rennaissance booklet. Given to me by my partner Swap-bot user: Sunshinesuperman. Not only was it this leather covered book but it was also several other pouches of surprizes.
Of course when it arrived at 7am I wasn't so excitable or energetic. I think I even answered the front door dressed like a blanket yeti (the post man was scared). But gosh. I look at this now and I am so very impressed. Mona you should never feel like your artwork isnt that good, this blew me away. Totally rocking my socks off. Each page had alot of thought put into it and I loved the quote at the end.
I also loved the insence too (the Vanilla was gorgeous) but also the little bag of semi precious stones. Im loving it all. but gosh not so early next time Mr. Postman

It has Whiskers, and its Lucky

2009-03-09T08:46:00.000-07:00

Woke this morning in a funny old mood. I wanted to make something but I was like um. what do I make. I checked the swaps I was in and this was the one that inspired me this morning.
This would be my first attempt at a Lucky Parcel. Of course I could have pictured what was inside but I didnt want to ruin the swap for my partner Swap-bot user: Ceinwyn the only hint I can give is that it had to be a Kawaii profile themed package and that it seems too that me and Ceinwyn like the same four legs and whiskery critters (Cats!). So thats very cool and I have had quite a good afternoon making the parcel too. Of course in true fashion I want to now sign up for more lucky parcel swaps - eek!

Button your trousers up with these beautys

2009-03-08T18:26:00.000-07:00

So this is what a button swap looks like. Pretty darn cool actually. Ive seen a fair few of them now on Swap-bot and was kind of a bit puzzled, swap with your partner 25 buttons. hmmm well okie's. but the buttons I have are all dress makers buttons, so pretty pain to keep your work trousers together.
I really like this card of buttons though that Swap-bot user: gem recieved and shared with us. Its a pretty neat selection of pretty buttons, the sort I would probably never use because they are unique and Id be afraid I would waste on the wrong thing, or use wrong and make look ugly or well....just keep in a jar to play with from time to time.

Luggage with Legs

2009-03-07T17:07:00.000-08:00

Your not seeing things. Like I thought I was. This is infact a chest with legs. and gosh I hope its a disk world reference. That is though one of the most creative stuffies Ive seen in quite some time. Its brilliant. The chest is made to such a high standard, its ridgid but without looking like it would crush all, it sort of has a soft quality though I expect it is still rather ridgid. Really hard to do but done brilliantly here.
Thank you Flickr user: Carrottepower for showing off. the multi-legged chest here. Im still having a closer look at how the buckle closing clasp actually works. It looks quite like it closes properly. Another pretty admirable thing. Well done.

Blank pages to Master pieces

2009-03-05T04:50:00.000-08:00

I open my eyes and I swear all I see are cupcakes and owls...is this bad? NAW! These are pretty damn good ATC's the kind I would love to add to my collection. I think the thing that appealed to me more so than anything else is having a look through Swap-bot user: gem's Flickr and seeing how these four ATC cards came to life.
Granted no cupcakes but everything owl. Including an pretty darn cool paint pot. I think for the next few sets of ATC's I put together I may have to produce a step by step making of photo collection because it just seems really nice to be able to look back through the stages of an art objects life from blank page to master piece. Like here and here.

Owl-a-Licious

2009-03-05T04:33:00.000-08:00

According to Swap-bot user: Sunnysidey this would be the result of a lack of red bull. (according to my Mr. there was an experiment about Caffine earlier in the year, people who stopped drinking the stuff lost over a stone in weight - wha!).
erm. but yes this little owl critter. Is brilliant sure he does look like a red bull cozey but I wouldn't hold that against him (I need my caffine!). I love the fact he doesnt look like any other Owl Stuffie Ive come accross to date, he is unique. Thats pretty cool stuff. I mean most look round like the kind craft magazines teach you to make.
I like the fabric too, a good mix of floral patterns, the kind my mum would use on curtains actually, even though they wouldnt match any of the decoation in her house or mine, floral for that woman = curtains not owl. Course Owly curtains would be cool *has images of this little guy with the rest of his owl posse sewn together to make a massive stuffie curtain*
Ok. Now Im being silly. But he is a really good stuffie. well made SunnySidey keep up the good work.

Rainbow Mitten's Save your Page

2009-03-05T04:25:00.000-08:00

I think the best thing I see when I log into Swap-bot each morning (afternoon) when I wake up are the amazing array of fantastic handmade things. Ideas and objects Id have never of thought of. Its a real inspiration some days I can definatly say. Its something I would suggest to any crafter. Even if you don't swap, stop, take a look and admire some of the creations that are getting posted around the world. There really are some ossumly creative folks there.

I mean take for example these bookmarks, Made by Swap-bot user: Flufftail for a no spend bookmark swap. Simple idea, make a bookmark, beautifal results you couldnt go to any shop in the world and buy for the exchange. I have to totally envie her five partners for this exchange who will be adding one of the clippy bookmarks on the right to their collection or their favorit novel at some point. *envy*

Get Stuck on my Fridge!

2009-03-05T04:18:00.000-08:00

I love fortune reading. Its a proper passion for me. I think I even waffle about it too much too when Im not paying attention. (usually at my Mr. who in all truths trys to escape, but isnt nearly quick enough mwhahaha). I collect different sets even to use for readings. Its cool, its fun. but my collection isnt something I ever expect to expand from swaps via. Swap-bot due to the fact most of the objects I use cost more than your average swappers budget. (gr! those manufacturers).
When a package arrives like one did this morning. Waking me up too. boo! It was really a nice surprize though to open up the packet and see some home made rune themed magnets. They are now stuck to my fridge too. pride of place next to several bottle cap magnets Ive recieved in the past.
This I believe was all part of a private swap between myself and Swap-Bot user: Valentine69. Who should boot me in the bum as I have yet to post out her half of this fantastic swap (some comics I had spare and thought needed a new home before i chopped them up into art).
Have a closer look here, I am so going to be using those creamy beads as bee hives for a future chunky page. They are very cool. Infact the whole thing was cool what am I saying!

Cute Wishes Do Come True

2009-03-05T04:11:00.000-08:00

A recent addiction for me in swapping would be all those Kawaii cute stuff as said a few days ago. I love the look of some of it, other bits are just a tad strange for me, but most of it is cool and in that girly high school way I thought I had grown out of when I realised I could likely sit down with photoshop and make my own themed letter sets etc.
It appeals to the senses in strange ways and occasionally some cute cat hugging a tomato sauce bottle will make me go 'awwww' and turn me to mush.
Equally a random envie arriving at my door will too. From a lady I havent set up a swap with, but who thought it would be very cool to grant me a Wish from the Wishlist group and share some of her collection with me. Fueling my addiction (all things in moderation...all things in moderation...).
Thank you kindly Swap-bot user: GeorgeBee. Your package was great. I seem to remember sitting there and playing with the sticker flakes for quite a bit longer than your average 24 year old should.

Did that Tomanto smile at me?

2009-03-03T09:22:00.000-08:00

Kawaii. Ive been stung by the bee of Japanese pop culture. Don't panic I havent given in to it yet, though I am intrigued by the stuff. Because thats basically all it is. Cute stuff. Kawaii. So I am led to believe means just that Cute. The vast sea of merchendise attached to it = the stuff.
All good things in moderation though. So for me it was very nice to recieve an adorable envie today with Kawaii food on it. This was infact a swap I signed up for about a month ago. Food with face's ATC. There was no stippulation on what food you had to pick. I believe I drew a stew with mushrooms and tomatos. My partner put corn on this card for me. Ultimately the best food of them all. mmmm sweetcorn. A good guess. Since I usually hate veggie's (eep. Dont tell my mother, she'll force them on me via. the post *has visions of mailed pototes and swedes). I loved the ATC. I loved the little sticker flakes I was sent too. All from Swap-bot user: cupcakechica

Swap-bot Cakes

2009-03-02T15:55:00.000-08:00

Huray for swap-bot meet ups. I am jelous. Green infact with envy. Or well I would have been green having seen these swap-bot themed cakes. Id have attempted to eat them all, they look ossum. Theres something so wrong and yet so very right about the colourings (orange and its not carrot, huray). I hope the 20 folks who went had a really good time scoffing the lot too.
I wonder if there would be enough Uk Swap-botters like me to have a meet up over here, we wouldn't have as epic cakes though. Thank you for sharing these photos Racheljohnson they are pretty darn cool. Especially for the tastey close ups of cake.

Tidy Work Spaces

2009-03-01T11:33:00.000-08:00

If only I had this much space on my work table. ive taken to using a tray now for most of my cutting out as all the bits and pieces seem to been waging a war across my desktop against my Mac. (yes yes, I am a sinner I use a Mac).
But yes. I have much envy for those who have this sort of space with which to craft. Oh and Polymer clay, something I love to play with, even if it does end up being a scrambled grey mess of smudged colours and dirty finger prints (well sort of). Anyways Flickr user: craftaddict02 Has alot more skill at having a tidy desk and tidy Polymer clay creations than me clearly. As this clay owl here shows for definate. Id love to have the courage to throw that much clay together and make something wonderful rather than a gooey mess.

Squeeeee....Candy, Hearts and Bells

2009-02-28T17:06:00.000-08:00

You know a swap like this would be the swap of the year for me if it had arrived on my end, yes this is all one package from Swap-bot user: ShandaPanda. This is a massive array of happy hearty valentines love thingys. There bells, jars, boxes, papers, stams and more hearts than the love factory. I am throughly impressed (and I wouldn't be lieing if I admitted to be slightly interested in how much it cost to post - theres a whole lot of happy there).

Have a closer look at some of the bits and pieces this is an EPIC package to receive. A little Stamp. A jingly Heart (I swear I thought you only got these at Christmas. Its not a Valentines gift without ribbons and its defiantly not without chocolates. You cannot tell me that isnt the most exceptional way to convey some love to a swap partner, above and beyond the norm. Fantastic.

Something Flavoured

2009-02-28T15:54:00.000-08:00

Newbie swaps. We've all done them, because after all we were all newbies once right? (hell I was, and I was a proper newbie, ooow whats that, ooow postage thats a bit strange, hello there post lady....etc etc). This picture to the left does not strike me as the sort of thing Id expect to find from most average newbie swaps. This swap is just quite lovely, when I started I didn't tend to put so much care in my packages, I read profiles and all, but....mmm I look back and cringe. Swap-bot user: Fuzzystuffies hasn't done that and wont have any reason to look back and cringe as this swap, where she needed to send something hand made and something from her partners profile and who's favorite colours are green and purple. Have a nosey here at the complete package, yes the little purple thingy with a tiny little duck is a pin cushion and yep the happy green froggy thing is a mini bento box. awwww.

Oooow Shiney things...

2009-02-27T06:17:00.000-08:00

A handful of beads. I can derive an odd amount of entertainment from beads and buttons alike and have done since I was a child and got to play with my Grandma's big Roses tin full of the things. It was always good times to be sat around sorting the blue ones from the black ones or finding all the star shaped buttons etc.
I can totally understand the excitement for Swap-bot user: Sonyaok when she got these, especially since it seems they were right on for the kind she uses in her work. Im a bead addict too, I love the ones at the back with the sort of cloudy colours to them and the tiny pearls. They were part of the International Beads Swap which sounded quite nice, only a small $5 packet containing about that much in beads before shipping. That leaves plenty of creative collecting from the sender and plenty of surprizes for the reciever.

Sneeky Peeks and Faeries

2009-02-27T05:57:00.000-08:00

I saw this photo after having a look at a set of four ATC's with the same design on them, And honestly both are worthy of honorable mention. Kinda cursing the fact I didnt sign up to the swap the ATC's are part of *grumbles*
Thats quite an eye catcher of a design, made for as a transparency? (at least I read it like that) and then stuck to things. What a very clever idea. I am in awe of the photograph of this one (im a sucker for sky pictures). and Im curious as to what the backs of the atc's were made with or if they were just that way when the cards were created.
Its the faerie design though that makes both and that is all Swap-bot user: ShandaPanda's art. Its the simple things that really catch your eye sometimes, I guess some may argue that this isnt really so simple, but a silloutted Faerie and very short but delicate wings works simple for me *froths at how she would want this on her window cill*

Ostra ATC Swap

2009-02-27T05:49:00.000-08:00

This arrived yesterday I admit. Had a pretty busy birthday though but I just had to share it. It is from Swap-bot user: Ogma who set up the Wheel of the year ATC swaps. Basically there is an swap currently set up for every festival of the year, the next one being Beltane.
I love the little extras included with this fantastic Ostra themed ATC. Theres a small packet of Lavender (I really am gonna grow my own Lavender bush one day, its very useful for keeping flys away and smells lovely). There's also a small packet of pretty beads, inside are also some strange square bits and pieces, Im not sure what they are but they will soon have a space on one of my chunky books, as they look and feel pretty darn cool.

I am definatly signing up to the rest of the wheel of the year ATC swaps. Hopefully by the end of the year I will have quite a collection formed.

A Cup of Tea

2009-02-26T00:49:00.000-08:00

It must be a british thing. I feel an odd connection to the tea cup and generally the occupation of tea drinking, Now Im not a huge fan dont get me wrong. It's like drinking milky leafy water, some teas are nice but alot are just leafy wet stuff. That doesnt stop me looking on in envy when I see this tea cup and little dish. As an object it is very sweet. I like the little stars on it and I assume that little brown packet inside is tea too.
I wonder who the lucky partner to Flickr user: appliquegoddess who I assume posted this one out. and I do hope it arrives safely and not squashed (or otherwise diverted to my house so I can keep it for my occasional tea drinking fancey).

Big Birthday for Trinket

2009-02-26T00:39:00.000-08:00

This arrived yesterday, But Im still frothing about it today.
What is it? you ask. Its a BIRTHDAY CARD! because yep you guessed it. Today is my birthday. I always fuss over my birthday a little too much, even if the weather outside is grey dull and horrible. It's still my birthday. Im gonna wrap myself up in blankets and eat cake all day till I get ill....or well just dont want to eat anymore cake (I can't see that happening soon).
And all the time this little ginger kitty shall be poking his smiley nose at me. Thank you very much Swap-Bot user: ChuckInNY for posting this to me. Oh and yes. That is glitter, long after the card has been moved away, there shall be glitter all over my room as the sparkly gift that keeps on giving in my socks and shoes ever day. (I may have spilled a bit - everywhere).

Its madness...no wait, its Chunky Pages

2009-02-25T17:38:00.000-08:00

My name is Trinket and yes I have an addiction. Chunky Book pages. I haven't yet got enough to make a full book of any one given theme. But I have been making them like a Squirrel storing nuts. I think I am going nuts infact.
Moving on from my madness I couldn't help but spot this delicate little beauty this evening (well morning its also 1.45am here in England). Made by Swap-bot user: freespirit66 for the Wishlist Chunky Pages Swap, I believe there is still a little sign up time for a similar swap here too. But I have to appreciate the very detailed description though about just what went into making the page. As a maker of chunky books myself, I love to find out about what other folks use for theirs. It makes me very curious what botanical handmade paper is, as this apparently used two sheets of it to make the base *ponders*

That's Not Scrap

2009-02-25T17:30:00.000-08:00

Thats it. Im signing up for the next paper scraps swap I come across because there is just no way these lovelly quality bits and bobs are scraps. They're the sorts of bits I horde away in my papery box of ossum like the hording hermit I am. Always saving them with the intent, Im savint that particular shiney piece of paper for some epic piece of work, that generally never happens.
I do hope that wont be the case for these bits and that they are destined to appear on this blog another time shaped into something marvelous. I cant wait to see, but Swap-bot user: LittleZ I would be your partner for a scrap paper swap anytime. I especially do like the little bird sat on a cloud you posted. I wonder if thats a sticker of a transfer like the ones in your Dawanda shop.

Big Owl Eyes

2009-02-24T03:51:00.000-08:00

Its all owls and cupcakes again, but I just had to take notice of this little guy, maybe its those big brown eyes and all but I am quite in aw of this little creation by Swap-bot user: bean. Hes an tiny owl Arrigurami (I assume at least), but he was made without a pattern. Ive often marvelled at my mother who happens to be a seamstress who can piece together a pair of trousers at a moments notice if you give her the fabric without a pattern. It takes alot of pacients and a quite a bit of talent in my oppinion.
Im still looking at this little guy in awe. though that could still all be in the big brown eyes. Hes very well made. Bean you should be very proud, and gosh after reading your flickr gallery here, I hope your feeling better too. Allergic reactions are horrible.