Quilly Nilly

Quilling Class: Fabulous Flowers

2012-01-29T20:47:00.000-06:00

Fabulous Flowers was a hit! We had so much fun in this class, it was a workshop length class which is 3 - 4 hours long, I taught them roses, fringed flowers - hand fringing and I let them all try out my fringer. I also taught them to create a husked flower. Let me just say, they loved the fringed flowers. The first fringed flower I chose to create out of Bazzill card stock in teal, ivory and a cocoa brown - they turned out soooo cute. We then learned roses, which was trickier; knew it was going to be but they all got it after 3 or 4 tries. Next was a husked flower with a mini fringed flower - as a challenge - they all did great on that too, in fact; a friend of mine took the class and she actually taught me a thing or two with the roses and a new way to fringe flowers - it was awesome. We had some free time so they took turns trying out my fringer machine, which they all agreed would be worth the money; and then a couple gals continued trying to make roses while a few others worked on more fringed flowers. It was fun!

Here are some photo's to show what they created. The first image is from the class, we did decide that roses are easier using 1/4" quilling strips instead of the 3/8" strips that we were using for the fringed flowers. A couple of my friends that had taken the class had so much fun, they went back to one of their houses and continued making the fringed flowers; the second photo shows what she created, I love her color combination. She said they were having a blast creating those flowers. Yippee!

Next month at Eclectica I'll be teaching a beginners class and a class on birthday elements, which should be fun. Well, seeing all these flowers makes me want to get fringing, I'll post some new things soon I'm sure.

Taught a quilling class on Saturday

2012-01-08T21:05:00.000-06:00

Well another successful quilling class this past Saturday at Eclectica. It was fun, and everyone did great; I taught them how to do a daisy tag and a flower bud acard; both are from Quilled Creations with a smidge of tweaking from myself. I'm still trying to figure out how many projects to plan, the first class we did a tag with a flower, a snowflake on a card and a pumpkin embellishment and we ran out of time; this time I planned a flower on a tag and a card with flower buds and a small butterfly; and if time permitted some hearts. It was perfect, the class was around 2 hours; and I think we may have gone a little over that but we were able to finish the tag and card and one of the gals (who has previous quilling experience) did a couple hearts. So, I now know to only plan a couple things if it's a beginning quilling class; at the end of the month I'm teaching a quilling class based on flowers - quilled roses, probably a husked flower and fringed flowers; still trying to figure out how to explain roses......anyways, here are photo's of the projects we finished this past Saturday.

Roses, Strawberries and Cupcakes

2011-12-29T12:08:00.000-06:00

Can you believe it's already December 29th, creatively; I'm looking forward to 2012. I've made a list of new items I'd like to make and have already made a couple so I'm happy about that. We had a good Christmas this year, I hope everyone else had a fabulous holiday as well.

A coworker of mine requested a card for his friend's upcoming wedding. Their colors are red, black and white; and he was envisioning a heart made out of roses. I found a nice black metallic paper, which I used for the front of the card; which was then embellished with approximately 47 red roses - that took awhile to do - then I printed their names and their wedding date, scalloped it and added some glitter and it turned out just lovely. It's been added to my shop, where you can customize the text - here is an example of it with "I love you".

I also had planned on making more jewelry/trinket boxes this year. They're like little sculptures to me, I really enjoy working on them; and very recently I had sold a few that I had in my shop - so I thought now was as good a time as any. I first made the strawberry, then the cupcake; I still want to make one with a ladybug but haven't figured that one out yet - that will be soon though.

Snowflakes

2011-12-05T20:39:00.000-06:00

I have been sooooo busy making snowflakes. I had big plans in November to build up stock of quilled snowflakes for my Etsy shop, let's just say; it did not go as planned. The beginning of November I received an order from a company for 100 snowflakes, I was shocked. I've had people in the past question how much it would be for 100 of a card but that's as far as it would go; this time she kept writing back so it actually materialized. I was excited for the opportunity but I was also a tad worried; not that I wouldn't get it done - I didn't have a choice actually, it had to get done; I called it Operation Blizzard and I only had 2 1/2 weeks to get them done, I did it and the customer was absolutely thrilled with them.

On top of finishing up those 100 snowflakes, I also had to finish my coworkers order of 20 flakes; I had 10 to go - I just finished them this weekend. These are a new design, they're an inch larger then the one's in my shop, they're done using gold edged papers and they have a window in the middle that simulates frosted glass; you can see in the photo how the lights on the tree shine through.

I do love the look of my snowflakes but I'm very much looking forward to creating some new designs for Valentine's Day; which I will be starting within the next couple weeks.

Quilling Class

2011-10-22T22:52:00.001-05:00

Earlier today at the local independently owned scrapbook store, Eclectica; I taught a quilling class. What fun! I thought I would be nervous but I really wasn't. I was concerned that I wouldn't be able to explain it in a way that they would understand but they all said I did great, woo hoo. We created a quilled flower for a tag, a snowflake for a card and a pumpkin as an embellishment. I brought in some items that I've made to show what can be done with quilling and we've decided for the next class I'm going to teach fringed flowers and roses - that may be a little tricky, I can make roses but not sure how I'll explain it; that class will be in January of the new year so it gives me plenty of time to figure it out.

Sneak Peak: Cardinal Ornament

2011-10-21T17:09:00.000-05:00

I've had a little time to work on some new items, one being a cardinal ornament. Awhile back I had drawn sketches of a bird in a nest with Christmas lights and was able to finish it yesterday. I've also thought I would create a blue bird in a nest and will most likely sell them as a set. This little cutie is about 1 1/2" long and 1" tall. Coming to my etsy shop soon.

Paper Doll Princess

2011-10-16T16:36:00.000-05:00

In October at my favorite local scrapbook store, Eclectica; they have what they call a "Scrap Pink" crop, where some of the money goes to help in the fight against breast cancer. Yesterday was the crop, 10 hours of awesome craftiness with a fabulous group of gals; Olive Garden and some door prizes; we all had a great time. They also do a contest where you get to decorate a die cut paper doll and everyone votes on their favorite, I love this contest; it's so much fun and I win it; or at least the last 3 times I entered I won. For my doll yesterday I decided on a princess. I used white swiss dot card stock to create her dress, added bling using my Star Dust Stickles, and created her tiara, jewels, and hair with quilling. I/she won, super exciting; got me a $5 gift card which I used last night purchasing some new paper (which I didn't need) but who doesn't love more paper.

New Projects

2011-10-14T12:59:00.001-05:00

I'm so behind on posts, it's awful; when my allergies bother me I just don't do any quilling - the past week or so I've been feeling a little better so I worked on some custom orders. The first project was a set of 4 butterfly magnets, the second was a "lovey" card. For the magnets, I decided to use more than one color for the wings, I chose teal as my main color and accentuated each with purples/blues or yellow/oranges/light green.

On the card it was pretty open, I told him I was thinking of a tree with their initials and in the leaves I would add a few hearts; he said it sounded good to him and loved the way it turned out. If you'd like your own Love Tree card with customizable initials feel free to pop on over to my shop and purchase it. I've also added a set of 2 butterfly magnets to my shop, which would make a great teacher gift or office gift as the holiday's approach.

The Letter M

2011-09-22T11:32:00.000-05:00

I'm just finishing up a custom order for a letter "M". I was asked to use pale blue, gray and ivory for the colors, I purchased those colors in bazzill card stock and also a blue that was a smidge darker than the pale blue. Her walls are ivory so I chose the pale blue for the actual M shape and decided to accent it with the other colors. She wanted it to be 12" tall, on the computer I took the M she chose and did a loose sketch of what I thought it would look like. Once I had the right hand side completed (before glueing anything down), I sent her a photo to make sure I was going in the right direction. Once I received approval I continued to finish up the entire piece, going back and forth between the darker blue and the gray and ivory. I happened to have a pale blue sheer ribbon in the width that I wanted (1/2" ish) to hang it by; now all I have to do is create two tabs to go on the back from which the ribbon will attach. I can't wait to hear how she likes it.

All About Paper Etsy Treasury

2011-09-01T13:07:00.000-05:00

Ooh, one of my paper pots was included in an Etsy treasury, All About Paper. Some gorgeous items are in this treasury, one of my fav's being the paper dress. Amazing!

Custom Notecards, All Occasion

2011-08-31T15:32:00.000-05:00

These little cuties were a custom order for a friend, he asked if I could do 4 of my little cards (notecards, I call them). He wanted two with flowers and two with balloons, just to keep around in case an occasion came up where he might need a card. I really like how they turned out, I may need to do some more soon.

Sneakers, a Wedding Card

2011-08-24T11:13:00.001-05:00

A coworker of mine was in need of 2 wedding cards, one he said could be traditional; the other one he wanted something unique. His cousin is getting married in a couple weeks, she's younger, more hip, loves to run, as does her husband to be. Their "Save the Date" card had an image of a couple in wedding attire, wearing sneakers. So I decided to incorporate their love of running into the wedding card. I envisioned quilling two sneakers, having them face each other; and the laces going up and turning into a heart - it sounded good when I told him what I wanted it to look like; then I had to figure it out.

I did my sketch, then realized; quilling the sneakers would not give them the right look. I decided to use different papers to create the sneakers, and would lace them with my thin quilling paper which would in turn, turn into the heart. I worked on it for a couple nights, a little bit each night and while I was concerned that the laces may not turn into the heart like I wanted, it worked; the card turned out so nice. I love a challenge, and my coworker is sure they're gonna love it.

Recent Custom Orders

2011-08-14T16:46:00.000-05:00

About 3 weeks ago we went to Connecticut to visit family, we had a great time. Since returning; I've been super busy with custom orders. While on vacation I received an email from a gentleman who saw on my blog, a custom Juicy Couture card I had made for my coworker's daughter, he wanted one for his wife's birthday. He gave me some of her favorite colors, I chose the Tiffany blue; of course I had to google what that was so I got it right. He wrote her a couple poems which I printed for him and put on the inside.

One of my coworkers had asked if I could create a birth announcement card for his new grandson. His daughter in law loves monkey's and owl's so I knew I would incorporate those elements along with a few other "baby" things and of course his name, date of birth and what he weighed. I sketched out the monkey, this was the first quilled monkey I ever did and I was hoping he would turn out as cute as my sketch - he did and so did the card, I definitely want to make more of these in the future.

Another coworker wanted a graduation card, I did a cap and diploma using the colors from the graduate's high school - blue and mustard yellow. She also needed 3 personalized frames, I picked out three patterned paper's with florals and swirls and printed each of the recipients names for the inside. I then quilled a solid butterfly that coordinated with the colors in the papers; she loved them all.

In the last week I finished up a custom Etsy order, wedding table numbers 1 - 7; and another order from a woman who saw my cross card on my blog. She wanted to use them as baptism invitations, and being that she was in Australia and shipping takes so long; I only had a couple days to create 18 of them. I got them done and out; they turned out so nice - she chose an ivory and gold edged paper for the cross embellishments.

At the moment I'm fighting a sinus/cold situation and hoping to get over it soon, it's making me very tired but too stuffy to get any sleep. Next, more snowflakes.......

Peacock Card, First Attempt

2011-07-17T14:54:00.001-05:00

I have been wanting to attempt to make a peacock for about a year. My coworker has a daughter who loves peacock's and this year I told him I would do my best to get a peacock done for her birthday, I actually wanted to do a 3D one; but time was running out so I did a birthday card for her instead which can be framed and hung - I think she's going to love it. I will say I had some difficulty with this, I glued pieces down before thinking it all the way through; but I now know what I'll do the next time I create one.

Round Dog Frames, Zeke and Cori

2011-07-08T15:42:00.000-05:00

These were a custom order for my coworker, yes; same coworker - what can I say, she loves my quilling. She wanted dog frames with the names quilled on each one, Zeke and Cori; I happened to find a paw print card stock that was just perfect for these. I wanted to keep them simple and the tone on tone paws worked perfectly I think. I quilled their names, a bone, a ball and a few hearts; she loved them.

Quilly Nilly Christmas in July

2011-06-30T16:03:00.001-05:00

www.quillynilly.etsy.com

Starting tomorrow, July 1st and running throughout the month of July; use coupon code cij2011 to receive 15% off your total order. As a BONUS, everyone who makes a purchase during this time will have their name put in for a chance to win an original Quilly Nilly snowflake ornament. Drawing for snowflake ornament will be held on Monday August 1st.

For The Birds...

2011-06-26T18:37:00.000-05:00

I coworker of mine asked if I could make her 4 birds, she has 2 already which are on their own bases; I told her for this I would put them all on one base so she wouldn't have all these single birds standing next to each other. I knew I wanted to incorporate a paper tree and a swing in her sculpture. After creating a sketch of what I wanted it to look like I started on the grass - I fringed the grass for the base, wish I could say that was my own idea but it wasn't - I ran across the blog of a very talented quiller/paper artist named Suzana Ilic, she has wonderful ideas and creations; I can't believe I just discovered her.

Once I had all the hand fringed grass glued to the base, I moved on to the tree. I had some friends help me figure out how to do the top of the tree, I wasn't sure how I wanted to do it and their suggestions were great, I really like the different paper used for the tree and leaves. I quilled 4 birds in blue, yellow, rose and grape and added some flowers. I think my coworker is gonna love it. I love it, almost want to keep it :)

Sympathy Card Floral

2011-06-23T11:08:00.001-05:00

One of my co-workers had a recent death in his family, his brother-in-law passed away unexpectedly; only in his 50's; sad to hear that. I was asked to create a card we could give to him and his family, this is what I did; tone on tone ivory floral with a deep blue swiss dot paper - simply pretty.

Custom Orders - card, jewelry box and frames

2011-06-17T14:27:00.000-05:00

I've already started creating snowflakes for this year, so from now to the end of the year I'm sure you'll hear me complaining about working on snowflakes. I did have a small break to work on some custom orders, my coworker needed a jewelry box for a little girl, his mom needed some frames and my other coworker needed a unique Father's Day card for her husband.

Paper maché heart shaped box that I covered on the outside with the polka dotted paper, inside has been painted a solid white; then the whole thing has been sealed with Modge Podge. Three paper quilled flowers can be found in the pop up window, lilac, pink and pale yellow.

My coworkers husband makes security doors, we were trying to come up with something to put on a card and I thought creating a door would look cool, a lot of them lend themselves to quilling with their scrolls and flourishes. I went online and found some images of security doors and picked one that I liked. I also put his initials in the middle which she thought was awesome, she's sure her husband will love it.

This is the 3rd time I've created these frames for my coworker's mom. She works for University of Memphis and uses them as door prizes when they have meetings. Being they're the Memphis Tigers I add the paw prints going up the side along with a football or basketball.

Oldies but goodies........

2011-06-12T18:23:00.000-05:00

I was looking through some of my older quilled items (2006) and thought I'd post a few of them on here - it's funny how our creations change. When I first started quilling I would paint on paper maché frames or cards or boxes and then add my quilling - everything was super busy and colorful and dotty. I still like them but I look at them now and think of how I'd revise them if I were ever to do them again. What fun to look back, I'd still like to use the mobile and the baby carriage in something new, I think they're cute.

Painted paper maché box, quilled baby mobile

Lid view of painted paper maché boxes with quilled baby carriages

Painted paper maché tissue cover with quilled sunflowers

Custom order, "sophie" earrings in Yankee Doodle Dandy

2011-06-05T12:39:00.000-05:00

A coworker of mine asked me to create a pair of earrings for her aunt to wear on July 4th. Since my "sophie" style of earrings are starting to sell I thought I'd stick with that style and make them in red, white and blue; I love the way they turned out. I'm calling them Yankee Doodle Dandy and they can be found in my Etsy shop in the pretty paper earrings section.

Custom order, "sophie" earrings in Steelers colors

2011-06-04T16:25:00.000-05:00

This was a fun custom order, she now wants another pair for her grandma who is turning 86; what a cool grandma she must be.

Michael Bublé tickets

2011-06-01T16:04:00.002-05:00

Ok, this has absolutely nothing to do with quilling but I'm so excited I wanted to share. Michael Bublé is going to be downtown at the FedEx forum this Friday evening, I've seen him one time in concert and can I tell you he is amazing live, love him. Well a radio station in the area ran a Crazy Cubicle contest, decorate your work area to show how much you love Michael Bublé - first prize was a set of two first row tickets - OMG, runners up would get a set of general admission seats - still pretty good. Well I decorated my work area and a friend of mine decorated her area - we figured it would up our chances of winning. We both just received calls a little while ago letting us know we were both runner up's - FABULOUS! Now we have 4 tickets between the two of us, I'm so excited.

Here is my "crazy" cubicle. If you're at all interested in the other winners you can visit wrvr.com to see who else won. Woo Hoo!

Owl Love You Forever, Wedding Cake Topper

2011-05-26T14:03:00.001-05:00

I've been wanting to do quilled wedding cake toppers for a year or so but have never actually sat down and finished one. With wedding season upon us I thought I better focus and get something created. I had started a birdy topper many months ago, but thought I'd go with my owls since I've worked on them more recently. Over the past 3 nights I worked on my owl topper and I'm so happy with it. I've posted it in my Etsy shop, it's completely customizable to match different wedding themes and colors.

Sea Garden Kusudama

2011-05-25T15:17:00.001-05:00

When I'm not working, or taking care of the house and everyone and everything in it; or quilling; you'll sometimes catch me creating japanese kusudama balls - I absolutely love them. For the craft fair I created two, one of which has sold recently; this is a few images of the one that is currently for sale; soon to be in my Etsy shop for anyone interested. The paper used for this is from Cosmo Cricket, a pattern called Sea Garden from their Salt Air collection; gorgeous!

Custom Birthday Card-Purple Tulips

2011-05-23T14:48:00.004-05:00

I love custom orders, they allow me to create something that I normally would not do on my own. A coworker of mine asked if I could create a birthday card for his wife, something girly with purple; a card she wouldn't think of throwing away. He then added she liked tulips; I sat down, created a sketch and this past weekend I was able to work on the card. It turned out so nice, and I could tell he really liked it and he's sure his wife is gonna love it too. Yippee!

Magnets, magnets and more magnets

2011-05-17T21:34:00.003-05:00

Let's just say I've been making lots of magnets lately, here are a few images of the newest ones. I just love how bright and summery they all are.

Spring Festival

2011-05-15T23:10:00.003-05:00

Well, it's over. This past Saturday was the Bartlett Spring Festival; which I've been preparing for for the past couple months; in between work and all my custom orders. I have not participated in a craft fair in a year and a half, so I was looking forward to getting out there again and showing what I've been up to. There were spurts of traffic but it wasn't the busiest craft fair I've been in but I still had fun; I always do. I love meeting and talking with people so I made the best of it, sold some things and talked quilling with those who had heard of it already and for those who could not believe all those items were made from paper. I heard a lot of "you must have lots of patience" to do this; guess I do - I don't know. Here are some images of my items on the new shelf unit I used. I got this POP display from work, spray painted it with my signature colors and if I do say so myself it turned out pretty nice - everyone wanted to know where I got it.

More cards.....

2011-04-27T13:22:00.004-05:00

It's been quite awhile since I've participated in a craft fair, I have one on May 14th that I'm looking forward to; I love meeting and talking to new people and having them ooh and ahh over the fact that my little items are really indeed paper - it's a fun time. Well, last night I set out everything I have for the craft fair and I do not have enough yet; I did create 13 cards this past weekend but I want to have at least 30 cards so I have to get busy on that. I've made a list and whew - I don't know if I'll get it all done but I'm going to try. Here are some of the new cards I made and one I did in December for a coworker.

Floral Happiness Cards

Cards for Dad

Baby themed card

Card for coworker, he and his wife had a baby girl in December

White Lab Mouse

2011-04-22T14:45:00.003-05:00

This was a custom request for a friend of mine, a white lab mouse. I've reworked him a few times, he now stands on his little paws; I think he's rather cute even with his beady red eyes.

A Great Big Thank You

2011-04-18T14:36:00.004-05:00

Wow, I just want to thank all of you who have chosen to follow my blog; I never would have imagined I'd have that many people who would like to check in and see and read what I've been up to - as of today I have 201 followers, how fabulous is that.

I'm still working hard at having enough items for the upcoming craft fair, in between getting ready for that; I had another custom card order - a rooster with the text De Colores. I have never quilled a rooster so it was another nice challenge. My husband just asked me the other day why I hadn't done any roosters for him, looks like after this I might have too; he liked it and I hope the recipient likes it as well. I tried to not get too complicated with it, which was difficult for me; this was actually my second try - the first rooster parts ended up in the garbage, they were too intricate and too big. I did another sketch of what I wanted the rooster to look like and it worked much better second time around. The text was die cut on my Cricut, which doesn't get much use these days; so it was kind of nice to use it again.

(custom order card - De Colores Rooster)

Here is another set of paper bowls (still looking for a clever name for them), these have fringed flowers instead of petaled flowers. I LOVE these, the colors are so pretty in person; will have to do a set for me to have on my desk at work.

(Warm and Cool Striped Paper Fringed Pots)

Owl Definitely be Creating More of These

2011-04-10T22:56:00.003-05:00

Hee hee, it's late and I need to get to sleep but I wanted to get these little cuties posted since they're new and can I say how much I LOVE the way they turned out. In the past I've worked with owls as magnets, on cards and wall hangings - all 2 dimensional, lately I've been doing more and more 3 dimensional paper items and having lots of fun with it; it's like sculpting but with paper. Well I've been wanting to do 3D owls and finally challenged myself this weekend to create one, then two; they're fun and I want lots and lots of them. The purple one is for my coworker who is going through a tough situation right now, a little pick me up - to let her know we're all thinking about her. The blue one is going to be for sale, in my shop or at a craft fair I'm doing in May. I've got the parts for a couple pink one's but ran out of time to finish those, I'm also out of paper so will be placing an order tomorrow for more. I'll post more photo's as I make them, and I suspect I'll be making lots of them.

Paper Bowls

2011-04-07T14:00:00.002-05:00

Something new I've been working on for the upcoming craft fair....cute paper bowls. They range in height from 1 1/2 inches to 1 3/4 inches and take around 700 inches of paper to create - wow, I definitely need to order more strips of paper. I love trying to come up with color combinations for these and love how they look stacked together. They will eventually be making their way into my Etsy shop but for now I need to add to my craft fair inventory which is lacking. These little cuties would be great to hold paper clips, rubber bands, decoration on a window sill, to hold a couple rings; they're so cute in person - my images just do not do them justice. What would you use them for, just interested.

I Love This Pink Flamingo

2011-04-05T20:54:00.004-05:00

Wow, it's already April; I cannot believe it - it seemed like I had so much time before Easter arrived and now that time is quickly passing. I'm trying to build up inventory for a crafty fair in May I'd like to participate in but it's getting closer and closer and I'm not creating as fast as I would like. We'll see how the next few weeks go.

I did just finish working on a custom card order for 4 cards; one with a bee; two with crosses and one with a pink flamingo. I have done bee's and crosses before but never a flamingo; how exciting to work on something new and let me tell you; I love how he turned out. I will definitely be doing more with flamingoes.

Bee card, Cross card and Pink Flamingo card

New Earrings

2011-03-20T21:08:00.003-05:00

Whew, I've been buuussy! I need more hours in my days to finish everything I'd like to get done. I've been quilling new items but have not had a chance to take photo's, once I can get caught up on that I will start posting more. I did however just finish two new pairs of earrings. One pair was based on the "Sophie" style that is in my Etsy shop already, I wanted to do them in bright summery colors; and can't wait to wear them.

Summertime Fun

The other set is actually something I created for the Etsy Papertwirlies team challenge. The theme was Spring Wake Up, create something that you associate with waking up;, for me it's my morning shower. Every morning one of the first things I do is take a very long, very hot shower. It gives me time to think about my day ahead and it's peaceful since the rascals are still asleep. I created this pair of earrings which I've called Shower Drops, they can be purchased here if anyone is interested. If you'd like you can also check out on our team blog to see what else was created for the challenge; each week a new shop/item will be highlighted; this week it is the very talented Lisa of FairyCardmaker.

Shower Drops

Springtime Magnet Set

2011-02-28T16:36:00.002-06:00

A request for a magnet set, I thought of a bee, a ladybug and 2 flowers - turned out to be a cute set; might have to add to my etsy shop soon.

Hello Kitty

2011-02-22T14:48:00.002-06:00

I love a challenge, really I do. One of my coworker's called me up last week and asked if I'd be up for a challenge, certainly I thought. She asked if I thought I could quill her a pair of Hello Kitty earrings. I said yes, I would do my best; I was really hoping I could get them to look like they should. Recently in our home we celebrated our daughter's birthday and it was Hello Kitty themed so thankfully I didn't have to do too much research to get this right. I did a quick sketch of her head and went to work quilling some earrings. I showed them around and everyone agreed they looked like Hello Kitty, challenge completed; and my coworker is positive her cousin is gonna love them.

A Happy Juicy Birthday

2011-02-14T16:41:00.009-06:00

I had hoped to have this card posted yesterday but time did not permit. My coworker (yes the same one who orders everything) asked me to create a Juicy Couture birthday card for her daughter's 22nd birthday. I've heard of Juicy Couture, brand name for fashion, jewelry, hand bags; it's not my thing so I had to look up the logo/icon - the perfectionist that I am I wanted to make sure I got it correct. I used white swiss dot for the background, decided to go with a nice plum colored card stock for the purse shape and used silver quilling paper for the crown. I added just a light bit of clear glitter over the top of the crown just to give it some bling. My coworker loves it and is sure her daughter will as well.

Happy Birthday, Wine Bottle Card

2011-02-11T14:34:00.008-06:00

How exciting, to be part of another blog hop - and a birthday one at that.

Happy Birthday to the talented Linda of Krazyquilling!

My coworker who buys everything from me asked that I create a birthday card for her manager - I know him since he's one of my manager's as well just not directly, well I needed to know some of his likes so I could do it right. He likes to drink wine, not much to go on but I was going to make it work. I started looking through my section of masculine papers and found this great argyle which I've been wanting to use for months - I know he has one or two argyle sweaters so surely he's like it on a card. I then set forth in creating the wine bottle, but the label needed something - I then added the grapes and quilled the leaves - it was perfect (or so I thought). I must say I was very pleased with it even though it's a little more bold and busy then I normally do, my coworker loved it and so did her manager; so that's what really matters.

Here is the blog hop list to follow, don't forget to leave a comment on everyone's blog for a chance to win:

Linda - www.krazyquilling.com

Angelica - www.handmadebyangelica.com

Jessica- www.kinderstampo.com
Emma- www.creativetimeforme.com
Tracey- www.quillynilly.blogspot.com/ (this is me)
Carri- www.doubleclickconnections.blogspot.com (your next stop)
Alex- www.youhadmeatcraft.com
Pam- www.pammejo-scrapbookflair.blogspot.com

Bonnie- www.ascrapabove.blogspot.com
Nikki- scrappinnavywife.blogspot.com
Abby- scrapbookaholicbyabby.com
Katie- www.craftingwithkatie.com
Debbie- craftydeb-ddscrafts.blogspot.com
Glora- glorascrafts.blogspot.com
Leanne- createdbyleanne.blogspot.com
Vicky- luvmygypsy.blogspot.com
Laura- www.makinprettythings.com
Tanner- www.mrcricutcrazy.com
Carol- www.happyexpressions.blogspot.com
Marta- www.pattisscrapingtime.blogspot.com
Shannon - www.purplelionpaper.com/blog

Linda with krazyquilling will also have a Live U-Stream with more Giveaways tonight at 10:00pm EST

CLICK HERE FOR U-STREAM

Make sure you leave a comment on every stop for a chance to win

A Stamp of your choice from My Creative Time

( Winner of Stamp will be announced Tomorrow Wed. Feb. 16)

The Kich N Bleus February Collection.

(Winner for the Kich N Bleus will be announced on her U-Stream)

Thinking of You

2011-02-01T09:18:00.003-06:00

Wow, I've been busy and still have a few custom orders to finish this week for Valentine's Day. As promised, here are the Thinking of You cards; part of the 25 cards custom order which will be shipping out in the next day or so. I've surprised myself with how many cards I can actually get done if I put my mind to it; and I think I'd like to duplicate some of these cards and put in my shop eventually. This was a nice change from snowflakes and I haven't worked on cards in quite awhile so it has been fun to work on something different.

Sophie Earrings

2011-01-30T18:57:00.003-06:00

I have more images of cards to show but I thought I'd quickly get in my newest creation for one of my coworkers (second image). Quilled earrings, "Sophie" in red, pink and white - ordered for Valentine's Day, I made an extra set to sell in my shop. I love them, and think they'd look great in other color combinations as well. Once I finish all my custom orders for Valentine's Day I'm going to try these earrings in various colors. Card images coming soon, my 25 card custom order is almost finished and will be shipping out within the next couple days, can't wait to hear what she thinks of all her cards. •• For my fabulous blog readers, purchase these ever so pretty Sophie earrings and at check out use coupon code BlogSophie2011 and receive 10% off ••

Frog Thank You card

2011-01-21T12:44:00.003-06:00

Quilling is not the most masculine embellishment, at least not to me; the swirls just lend themselves fabulously to cute and pretty elements; so when I was asked to create a thank you card with a frog for a guy I tried really hard to not have it look feminine; I think I did alright with it; we'll see what my coworker thinks. What do you think?

Happy Birthday Cards, only 15 cards to go

2011-01-17T14:11:00.002-06:00

I'm working steady trying to finish up my custom order of 25 cards, I'm currently working on the "thinking of you" cards and thought I'd post the "happy birthday" cards; don't want to fall too behind on posting. I have a crop I'm attending this weekend, which will probably give me 8 hours of creating time but I didn't want to save all of these for then, I've got Valentine card ideas swimming around in my head but I'm not sure I'll have time to get them all finished; and I took a smidge of time to work on some heart earrings as well - so I'm hoping I'll have a chance to finish all those this weekend, we'll see.

Hello Cards to start 2011

2011-01-10T21:51:00.004-06:00

Wow, it's January 10th and this is my first post of the year; 2011 is flying by. Of course I would like to be able to get on here at least once a week, thankfully that wasn't an official resolution or I'd have already failed at it. This year I do want to try and be more active on my blog and my facebook page and continue to fill my Etsy shop with new items, that's not a lot to wish for is it? I'll do my best, that's all I can promise. Currently I'm working on and trying to finish a custom order for 25 cards, I've posted the first 2 "hello" cards in an earlier post; here are the remaining 3 "hello cards". I'm almost done with the "happy birthday" cards and will post those very soon.

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T22:02:00.003-06:00

Wishing everyone a happy and safe 2011!

More Quilled Pretties....Christmas themed presents

2010-12-21T10:58:00.004-06:00

I enjoyed working on the miniature tree with presents so much that I decided to take the presents idea and create earrings for my coworkers. These are done in traditional Christmas colors, but I've got plans to create more in fun, birthday colors; which will be a new item in my shop very soon.

Miniature Christmas Tree Winner

2010-12-20T10:39:00.003-06:00

I just want to say I really had fun with the blog hop, and I want to thank all the people who visited my blog and for all the wonderful comments. I love quilling, and it was really neat to see how everyone incorporates quilling into their projects. I went to the random number generator and the lucky winner of my miniature tree is Yuenie. Thanks again everyone and have a fabulous Christmas!

Embellish Me with Quilling BLOG HOP

2010-12-17T14:24:00.014-06:00

Welcome to the "Embellish Me With Quilling" Blog Hop...If you just came from visiting Carol at happyexpressions you are on the right track... if not you can begin HERE with Linda at krazyquilling.

I'm a self taught quiller, having discovered quilling almost 7 years ago and absolutely love it. For the blog hop I created a super cute 3D miniature Christmas tree with presents. I've just recently started experimenting with miniatures and I love the challenge of trying to create a little sculpture out of paper.

One lucky person is going to win this fabulous quilled Christmas miniature . Become a follower of my blog, for one chance. For an extra chance, become a fan of Quilly Nilly on facebook. Leave a comment here letting me know (don't forget to leave your email address) and I will pick a winner Monday morning December 20th.

Next stop on the blog hop is the very talented Debbie. Take care.

Linda www.krazyquilling.com

Momo http://madebymomo.blogspot.com/

Jennifer http://creativequilledcreations.blogspot.com/

Carri http://doubleclickconnections.blogspot.com/

Sandy http://sweetspotcards.blogspot.com/

Trisha http://techniquesbytrish.blogspot.com/

Christina http://cardcreationsbyc.blogspot.com/

Emma http://www.creativetimeforme.com/

Sonya http://appelquilling.blogspot.com/

Jessica www.kinderstampo.com

Cheryl http://cardsbycheryl.blogspot.com/

Carol http://happyexpressions.blogspot.com/

Tracey http://quillynilly.blogspot.com/

Debbie http://craftydeb-ddscrafts.blogspot.com/

Little Christmas Lights

2010-12-16T10:04:00.002-06:00

I love my quilled miniature Christmas lights, they're little; no more than an inch tall and super cute. Last night someone ordered two sets of these cuties and here they are. You can find them in my Etsy shop, they come in traditional (shown here) or contemporary colors.

Quilled Pretties...for your ears

2010-12-07T20:57:00.005-06:00

That's the name for the new Quilly Nilly line of quilled earrings, Quilled Pretties; liked the sound of it. This is only the second pair I've created but I must say I enjoy working on things like this. It's like creating little paper sculptures...LOVE IT! These Christmas trees were a custom order from a coworker, she really liked them; even contemplated keeping them for herself (they're supposed to be for her aunt). Maybe if she's good Santa will bring her her very own pair :)

Holiday Quilling Blog Hop

2010-11-30T14:20:00.005-06:00

A couple weeks ago I was asked if I'd like to be included in a Quilling Blog Hop, of course I said yes; and then I had to question what it was (hee, hee). It sounds fun, you'll be invited to hop from blog to blog where you'll find a new project and perhaps a chance to win a little "blog candy". The Hop will run Friday Dec 17th 11:00pm EST - Sunday Dec 19th 11:00pm EST and will feature 14 fabulous blogs for you to hop through, I can't wait. Here is the list of blogs that will be participating:

www.krazyquilling.com

http://madebymomo.blogspot.com/

http://creativequilledcreations.blogspot.com/

http://doubleclickconnections.blogspot.com/

http://sweetspotcards.blogspot.com/

http://techniquesbytrish.blogspot.com/

http://cardcreationsbyc.blogspot.com/

http://www.creativetimeforme.com/

http://appelquilling.blogspot.com/

www.kinderstampo.com

http://cardsbycheryl.blogspot.com/

http://happyexpressions.blogspot.com/

http://quillynilly.blogspot.com/

http://craftydeb-ddscrafts.blogspot.com/

FREE Shipping and an Extra Thank You!

2010-11-25T16:14:00.003-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving, I hope everyone is having a fabulous day today; my turkey is still cooking and I have a few things left to make but so far it's been a good day. I know some people are going to start shopping for Christmas bargains later this evening so in my Etsy shop starting now and going through Monday Nov 29th I'm offering FREE SHIPPING on everything; and as an extra thank you to my blog followers, use coupon code THANKSGIVING2010 at check out and receive an extra 5% off.

Card Custom Order

2010-11-18T15:08:00.003-06:00

Years ago I met a woman through a craft fair, she had purchased a few cards from me and placed an order for a frame with yellow roses. A few weeks ago she emailed me asking if I still did quilling and mentioned she would like to have some more cards made. I called her and we chatted, it turns out she wants 25 cards; I was a little surprised - I was thinking she'd want maybe 5 or so. She mentioned that yellow would be a good color to incorporate since it was her sorority's color, so I started on her cards and here are 2 of the Hello one's I've created. I must say, it's a nice change to be working on something other than snowflakes, as I get them done I'll post them on here.

It is November right?

2010-11-11T21:54:00.003-06:00

Last week we had temps in the 60's, for us it felt a smidge chilly; today it was 80˚ or so. Really, it's November - the bee's are still buzzing around, the mosquito's are still trying to bite and the leaves are changing colors and falling - just too weird. I want my chilly weather back, and thank goodness that I live in Memphis because Saturday is going to be back in the 60's with a good chance of rain. It's no wonder we all keep getting sick.

Speaking of sick, I've been home the past two days with my kiddo's; my son was running a low grade temp and had a sore throat but he's feeling much better. Since I was home I was able to finish up a lot of paper crafting - 10 paper ball ornaments for my awesome coworker. I'll have images of those soon, for now I'll leave you with photo's of some of my recent custom orders - 10 sets of tata magnets for my awesome coworker who unfortunately has been touched very recently with a family member who lost her fight to breast cancer. The other images are of the November mini frame of the month, fall colors and acorns - LOVE IT!

Quilled Floral Hoop Earrings

2010-10-28T15:52:00.003-05:00

I promised a very close friend that for her birthday I would make her a pair of earrings out of paper. She thought I had forgotten so it was a happy surprise when she opened the box and saw these - yellow, teal and green; her favorite colors. I had fun making these earrings, and it was definitely a learning experience. I worked with Diamond Glaze for the first time and after seeing them so close (thanks to my awesome digital camera) I need to experiment a little bit more with it.

I'm still finishing up a few custom orders I have for the tata magnets. For every set purchased I'm donating 40% to the Susan G.Komen for the Cure. Here's a photo of one set I completed. After the magnets I have snowflake ornaments to finish, then I'm moving on to an order I received recently for 25 all occasion cards - good to be busy.

Scrap Pink Paper Doll

2010-10-19T14:23:00.003-05:00

Wow, it's been a month since my last post; shame on me. I've spent the past 5 weeks in and out of doctor offices, finally we know I have allergies and I've started allergy shots as of this week. I'm hoping this will allow me to get back into quilling, I miss it. I was fortunate enough to attend Scrap Pink this weekend at my favorite scrapbook store, Eclectica.

We laughed, laughed till I cried. We shared yummy recipes. We won door prizes and contests. And we created. I had a blast.

I entered the paper doll contest, we each were given a paper doll and a few hours to decorate that doll; and I won. Woo hoo, a $10 gift card! Here is my surfer girl paper doll.

Paper Quilled Christmas Light Bulbs

2010-09-14T10:25:00.004-05:00

My eyes are getting used to wearing glasses, I'm not as tired in the evenings now so that's a good thing; and I finished up a project I've had in the works - finally. NEW to Quilly Nilly and my etsy shop, 3D miniature paper quilled Christmas bulbs. I think they turned out pretty cute and I can't wait to hang them up somewhere; I was thinking they'd be neat to hang in a window or the top of my computer monitor and of course my coworker wants 3 sets to hang on her mini Christmas tree.

For my fabulous blog readers, if you purchase a set within the next week; mention you read about them here and receive FREE shipping (expires midnight 9.21.10)

Poor Neglected Blog

2010-09-11T16:35:00.002-05:00

I'm sorry, it's been way too long since I've had anything to share. Actually I've been working on some new things but it's been slow going. I've been dealing with sinus issues, we think; and today I finally went to the eye doctor and will be picking up my first pair of glasses. I'm hoping to be back to my quirky creative self soon and will definitely get on here with new item photo's and updates. For now, here is the September mini frame; even in my sinus induced haze I think it turned out pretty cute.

Have a fabulous weekend!

Ant Stole My Lunch Frame

2010-08-13T14:15:00.004-05:00

I must admit I haven't done any quilling in the last week, and not much in the last couple weeks; don't know if it's the heat here that's making me not want to do anything. It's been so so hot here. The past two weeks have been around 100˚ every day; and the two months prior to those were in the mid 90's; I'm so over the weather. I cannot wait for fall.

I did however make a cute little frame for August, and I'm feeling a little creative so I may get some stuff done this weekend. I know I have a custom order for a little girl head and snowflakes to finish and I may try to squeeze out something new and will let you see if I do. Have a great Friday!

A few more July projects

2010-07-27T12:00:00.005-05:00

Cute little quilled blue bird

Simple, colorful and cute cupcake birthday card

Finished some of the snowflakes for one of my custom orders and will be working on and posting new items very soon.

Aww Nuts...and a Strawberry too

2010-07-20T13:30:00.004-05:00

My daughter came up to my desk yesterday and I showed her this darling little paper 3D miniature strawberry I created and she said "where's the nuts?", makes me laugh every time I think about it - she was talking about these cute little acorns I created the night before. I'm just having a blast making these little paper miniatures; I have some future plans for the acorns; still trying to figure out what I'm going to use the strawberries for - any ideas, feel free to share. I'm also working on a 3D blue bird and will post that when he's completed as well. Have a great Monday!

Happy Birthday Cake Cards, New to the shop

2010-07-16T16:22:00.002-05:00

This weekend we are invited to two birthday parties, one on Saturday and one on Sunday. I rarely buy cards if it's a party for a little girl, instead I make them; quilling just lends itself to swirly pretty girly cards. Here is one of the cards created for a sweet little girl who is turning 5; I have tonight and tomorrow to make the other one but I'll be sure to post that one too. A card like this can be ordered through my etsy shop, just let me know if you have specific colors you'd like and what age needs to be put on the top.

Quilly Nilly Christmas in July SALE

2010-07-13T19:24:00.003-05:00

You're invited to my first ever Christmas in July SALE - I'm excited and I hope you are as well. I'm offering FREE SHIPPING to everyone, on almost all items (Clearance item excluded - although their shipping has been greatly reduced). With each purchase a little goodie is always included and anyone who purchases something during the SALE will have their name put in a drawing for a Quilly Nilly birdhouse magnet - Woo Hoo, how exciting.

As a blog and/or facebook fan, I want to extend this offer to you a day earlier than everyone else. Please feel free to visit my shop, tonight or tomorrow; if you see something you'd like you can convo me through etsy and I'll revise the listing to show FREE SHIPPING and (I'll take an extra $1 off if purchased on Tuesday or Wednesday) and you'll also be entered into the drawing for the birdhouse magnet. I'll be adding items throughout the sale period so keep checking back if you don't see anything that catches your eye right now.

**Please mention - Blog /Facebook Fan for the early special discount**

Sweet Birdy

2010-07-10T12:47:00.005-05:00

Ok, so I didn't work on snowflakes last night; instead I decided to finish my miniature bird. I have some new ideas swirling around, one is taking my quilled birds and translating them into 3-D; which I started and finished today. I like it, I definitely see area's on this that need improving before I start selling them in my shop; but for my first try I think it turned out cute.

I want to know what you think about her, if you saw this in my shop would you purchase it - would it be for yourself or a gift. Is there anything you'd change about her? I want honest opinions, I can handle it - please let me know by leaving a comment; and have a wonderful weekend.

Happy July!

2010-07-09T16:08:00.003-05:00

I had planned on getting on here on July 4th but that did not work out as planned, so I'm saying Happy July; hope it's been a good one so far for everyone. It's been hot here in Memphis, hotter than normal for this time of year and I think 5 weeks of 90+ temps have gotten the best of me. I've been cleaning the computer/craft studio for a week or so and I haven't really done any quilling; but I'm getting back on track and trying to finish up custom orders so I can get busy making new items. Here is the July frame of the month, I'm pleased with the outcome although I must have thrown out 6 or 7 large coils that I just could not get to pinch correctly - 10 pinches per star, not an easy task but I did it. So now I'm finishing snowflakes, I know; I keep talking about them and maybe it's the heat - hasn't had me in a snowflake making mood but I'm working on them this weekend and a few birthday items for two special girls which I'll post later. Have a fabulous weekend!

Awesome Silhouette Giveaway Through Tatertots and Jello

2010-06-23T10:07:00.002-05:00

I've been thinking about getting a Silhouette die cutter and a fabulous friend of mine told me to go check out tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com; guess what - they're doing an awesome giveaway and the prize is a Silhouette and some other goodies. Please go check it out and enter, you've got till June 29th. How exciting!

You've Been Cupcaked Magnet and Cupcakes Blog Giveaway

2010-06-17T19:14:00.003-05:00

Well it's here, the latest blog contest that I'm participating in. Please visit my shop at www.quillynilly.etsy.com, leave a comment about your favorite item at http://getcupcaked.wordpress.com/2010/06/17/62/ and you'll be entered to win a set of 4 quilled cupcake magnets, as seen above. She's also running a contest to help pick the name of her "signature" cupcake - the one I based my magnet's on, if you can come up with a name you can also leave that in the same comment section of her blog. The other part of the giveaway is for residents in Connecticut who can get to Sara J's, they'll be entered to win 6 delicious "signature" cupcakes. Good Luck!

Masculine Cards and Doggie Frames

2010-06-15T16:20:00.005-05:00

With Father's Day approaching I wanted to create a card for the occasion. Masculine cards are difficult for me, especially with quilling - the look of twirled paper is so pretty that I normally shy away from using it on masculine cards. Well I sat down and sketched out some icons I thought might work, for the first card I decided to use a tone on tone paper I've had for a year or so - tore the edges then layered it over a coordinating stripe pattern; then covered the front of the card. The round area that is die-cut out of the card was perfect for my quilled sailboat. Now, on the opposite side of the tone-on-tone "dad" paper is stars; I used that to represent the waves of the ocean.

I then started going through some quilling books and saw the shirt card with a quilled tie. I normally do not like to copy other's, I decided to use this concept but I added a collar to my shirt; and also picked patterned paper for one of the cards - tried to make it a little more me. I had two coworkers place orders for these cards.

The other project I worked on recently was a set of frames with a dog theme. I immediately fell in love with these patterned papers, purchased them weeks ago but didn't really get into the quilling part until this past weekend. I sketched out some doggie icons and got to work creating them. These frames were a little out of my comfort zone, I normally do bright, flowering, pretty things - so working on these were a bit of a challenge but I was pleased with how they turned out and the recipient absolutely loved them.

Other orders I still have in waiting consist of a fruit frame and lots of snowflakes - 32 to be exact, and it's only June....

Cupcake Magnets, so yummy!

2010-06-03T13:22:00.003-05:00

I wanted to give you a sneak peak at my new set of cupcake magnets I created for an upcoming blog giveaway. The girl who is hosting the blog giveaway creates cakes and cupcakes and sells them out of her mom's restaurant in Connecticut. I met her step mom Nicki at a craft fair here in Bartlett Tn last December; I always think it's neat to find someone else here from Connecticut. She asked me if I'd be interested in participating in Sara's blog giveaway, which I was; Sara gave me her signature colors and I created these cute little magnets to match. Once I get all the information I'll be back to let you know. Till then, feel free to check out some of Sara's cakes here on Flickr, and Nicki's etsy shop Marchese Creations (lovely elegant, romantic and vintage jewelry designs).

Summer Stripes

2010-05-27T11:27:00.003-05:00

I mentioned in my last post about my Frames of the Month, I sat down and wrote out what I want each month to be about; for June I thought summer - so I set out to find the perfect background paper, I knew I'd be quilling a sun for it but didn't really know what else I wanted to include - I needed another element or two to even it out; I finally decided on flip flop's. I searched through my papers, way too many papers; and found this new one I bought recently called 72 and Sunny - something like that - absolutely love these papers and bought way too many of them.

I thought originally I would do something solid or a tone on tone dot like last months, but instead I chose this super summery stripe pattern - LOVE it! I covered the mini frame with this paper, added a quilled sun in the top corner and a cute quilled pair of teal flip flops for the bottom - they even have a little glitter bling on them (if you look closely). I actually made myself this frame for my desk at work - I rarely do that, but I really liked the way it turned out - I'm going to put a picture of my two rascals from last weekends slip-n-slide escapade, they had so much fun.

My rascals and their slip-n-slide, so much fun.

Frame of the Month - May

2010-05-21T14:25:00.003-05:00

I have a customer who wanted a different frame for each month, I hadn't even thought of something like that; instead of cheese or beer of the month; you'll get a themed mini frame at the beginning of each new month throughout the year. She's going to keep it on her desk at work and each month she'll switch it out with the new one. Of course I mentioned it to my coworker and she wanted in too; she makes me laugh - she wants one of everything I make.

Here is the frame for the month of May, I'm still figuring out what I'll do for June although I'm thinking something sunny or fruity - since I think my bigger fruit frame turned out super cute.

Buttercup Yellow and Fushia Name Cards

2010-05-18T22:22:00.005-05:00

I wanted to share my latest custom order I received through etsy, it was for 39 table name cards in yellow and fushia. The cards themselves are from Bo Bunny's Double Dots card stock in Buttercup Yellow and the quilled flowers are a fushia color, I wasn't too sure about her color combination at first but when I finished and had all of them sitting in front of me I thought they turned out so pretty. I worked with Jillian showing her samples of the double dot papers to help her pick a card color, she asked if I could preprint the guest names; which was absolutely doable; I hope she's just as happy as I am with the end result. If you're interested in a set for your next gathering please feel free to contact me, I'd love to work with you to create the perfect little addition to your table setting.

Super Fruity Summer Frame

2010-05-15T13:16:00.002-05:00

I mentioned in an earlier post that a Quilly Nilly product and the shop itself was being reviewed on a blog, well it's up - all I can say is thank you, Tiffany had some really nice stuff to say about my items and it was a great read. If you'd like to check it out and enter to win this yummy looking fruit frame please visit stuffparentsneed.blogspot.com. Good luck! I'll be back posting new projects I've been working on so see you soon.

And the Winner is.......

2010-05-02T20:58:00.005-05:00

Yvette.

Thanks to the random number generator for helping pick a winner. I really enjoyed reading the comments and suggestions from everyone and will definitely be doing this again in the near future. I also want to thank everyone who took the time to visit my shop and my blog, I know days are busy so I appreciate your time; have a fabulous week!

Teacher Appreciation Week

2010-04-28T19:14:00.003-05:00

Next week at my son's elementary school is Teacher Appreciation Week, this year I've planned ahead and we're ready. I just wanted to share a couple cards that I worked on recently for this occasion and remind you; with school ending in a few weeks make sure you share how much you've appreciated your child's teacher - we've been fortunate this year, my son has an awesome teacher; I'm secretly hoping she'll be promoted up to 2nd grade so he can have her again. Thank you Mrs. Morrow!

close up of apples and pencil card

close up of text and apple card

Beach Frame

2010-04-26T21:49:00.004-05:00

About a month ago a very nice gal who lives here in Memphis contacted me via etsy, she introduced herself and her blog, http://stuffparentsneed.blogspot.com/ and asked me if I'd be interested in participating in her blog giveaway in May - celebrating Memphis in May, of course I would. I love getting feedback on my items. I knew I wanted to create a frame and I wanted it to be general so it could be for a boy or girl; a friend suggested a beach theme so that's what I did. Here is the end result, I covered this round frame (love my circles) with a pale blue dot paper, then quilled the sun, beach ball, shovel and bucket; and added some quilled circles around the frame photo opening just to bring it all together; I can't wait to hear what she has to say about it. And please check out her blog, it's chock full of great information for parents.

Beach frame front view

Beach frame side view

My First Blog Giveaway!

2010-04-25T16:23:00.008-05:00

Here it is, my very first blog giveaway. Please visit my shop, www.quillynilly.etsy.com; come back here and leave a comment - let me know you're favorite item, or if you have a critique on one of the item's I'd love to hear it, an idea for a new Quilly Nilly product; any kind of love you'd like to share will get you an entry in the contest. Contest will run from Sunday April 25th - Saturday May 1st at 11:59 pm (central time).

•Don't forget to leave an email address so I can contact you if you win•

Want to increase your chance of winning? Become a fan of Quilly Nilly on facebook, come back and let me know and that will get you another entry in the giveaway. Purchase an item from my etsy shop, come back here and let me know; that will get you 2 extra entries in the giveaway.

Now, what will you be winning....this super cute paper quilled Bee Trinket Box, brand new to Quilly Nilly, wouldn't it make a fabulous gift for Mother's Day? Thank you for participating and Good Luck!

Quilly Nilly is now on Facebook!

2010-04-14T11:31:00.002-05:00

Hello! It's a beautiful Wednesday here in the Memphis area; sunny with a slight breeze and will eventually be in the mid 80's. I wanted to share my newest endeavor with you, Quilly Nilly can now be found on Facebook so please feel free to pop on over and become a fan - in the search area just type in Quilly Nilly to find me. Just a little hint, there's a giveaway coming soon and you wouldn't want to miss out on that now would you. Have a fabulous day!

Happy Spring! If the pollen blows away I think it will be.

2010-04-12T20:36:00.007-05:00

Almost a month has gone by since my last post, a month; I can't believe it. I've been busy working on custom orders and dealing with sinus/allergy issues - I moved to the Memphis Tn area in 1994 to attend Memphis College of Art, after graduation I stayed here and eventually met my husband here and each year my sinus issues get worse, so I've been tired and not blogging.

I've been fortunate to have two large custom orders, one was for an awesome woman named Danna; she ordered 25 dinosaur birthday invites for her son's 3rd birthday. The other order was for a super gal named Margaret Anne, she ordered 15 thank you note cards - she let me use my imagination although I already knew she liked butterflies, birds and the color green. A heartfelt thank you to both for the opportunity to create something that will be unique and hopefully admired. Here is an image of the thank you notecards, if anyone is interested in a set please feel free to contact me at creative@quillynilly.com or through my etsy shop (hit the convo button). Thanks for visiting and have a fabulous evening!

Fabulous!

2010-03-18T13:23:00.003-05:00

I love circles and I collect corrugated circles (from work). Whenever there's extra circles they give them to me, and I keep them in boxes and drawers until I figure out what to do with them, needless to say - they're still at work waiting for me to create with them. Well the other day they gave me larger circles, 9 1/2" and I thought they would be perfect to hang with some sort of art on the front, that evening I went home and figured out how to take my cute long legged owls and make them much larger; I then covered one of these circles and the end result was too cute, I'm keeping this one but I've already started making new one's to sell in my shop so within the next few weeks there should be lots of new things coming.....fabulous!

Happy Birthday to You!

2010-03-14T16:14:00.003-05:00

I think in the last week I've probably made about 5 or 6 of these ever so cute long legged owl cards, well I've started to add to them; there's a new one in my shop that is holding a flower and this one here is for my friend's birthday. She loves purple so I found some patterned cardstock with a touch of purple, painted the legs white with lilac stripes and gave her purple feathers. Because she's wishing a Happy Birthday, she's holding a sweet little cupcake and is ready with her party hat. I know my friend will just love this card, I also think these will be coming to my shop soon so be on the lookout.

Hello, it's Friday

2010-03-05T09:53:00.002-06:00

That's really all I had to say, it's Friday and I'm so happy it is. I want all of you to have a fabulous weekend!

Brother and Sister, not so rascally when they're made out of paper

2010-02-28T20:38:00.003-06:00

Front View

Well, I can't believe it's been three weeks since my last post, I've been trying to stay on top of all my networking outlets and boy I'm slacking. I have one friend who likes to make fun of me having to update on flickr, and my blog and facebook and my etsy shop; but she's right - I'm trying to get Quilly Nilly out there and it's like a second job.

With that said.....I finished my paper quilled Brother and Sister 3-D miniatures. The last post talked you through and had images of the process to make the girl; well once I had her done and on her grassy knoll my son wanted to know if I could make a boy. I honestly was not sure I could do it, but I love competition (even if it's with myself) so I set out to try and I did it and he's cute. I glued him to his grassy knoll but because they're brother and sister I wanted them together so I combined them and I'm very happy with it.

Back View (so cute)

I'm going to offer these through my etsy shop probably as a custom order till I can get time to make some, which I hope to have in March (wishful thinking). Thanks for looking and have a fabulous evening.

Side View

Little Miss Adrianna

2010-02-10T15:54:00.008-06:00

I was on etsy yesterday just browsing through shops, my coworker and I were talking about little dolls and she told me I needed to do one out of paper, I must admit in the past I've contemplated this but was afraid to try - there are some quillers out there who do the most gorgeous miniatures and I didn't know where to start. Over the past year or so I've learned a few techniques and the idea of a miniature doll didn't seem so far off, so around 9 pm last night I told my husband I was going into my computer/craft room and I wasn't coming out until I had something.....well, 3 1/2 hours later I was done, little miss adrianna was complete - I still have to create her stand but that will be tonight or tomorrow and I'll post that photo then.

I took photo's as I went, something I've never done but I wanted to share with everyone my work process.

Here are the steps it took for me to create my paper doll.

Step 1 - sketch out what I want it to look like , look at that cutie

Step 2 - Create head and add hair

Step 3 - Once hair is complete, make neck and shoulder area (not shown) to hold up dress

Step 4 - Cut out dress from scrapbook paper, glue on to shoulder area

Step 5 - Once dress is on, create legs and shoes

At this point it was getting late so I guess I wasn't thinking about taking photo's I then created the sleeves and little hands, painted the legs and face - added a bow and she was complete, tonight I will create her stand

Final Side View

Final Front View - not bad for my first doll and too cute if I do say so myself

My son wants to know if I can make little boys so that will be next, not sure about those; but I definitely look forward to expanding on my paper dolls.

New Wedding Cake Card Flavors

2010-01-18T22:52:00.003-06:00

I was fortunate enough this weekend to attend a crop at the local scrapbook store Eclectica, and one of the items I worked on was a new wedding cake card - I wanted to do one in chocolate and I was very pleased with the way it turned out. After finishing that card I worked on two more at home and they are now available for order. I actually timed myself on these cards because I had no idea how long they took to make, I thought maybe 30 - 45 minutes; I was way off - almost an hour and a half for one card - they are so pretty, worth all the time put into them. I can't wait for someone I know to either get married or have an anniversary so I can create one for them.

Chocolate Almond

Plum Delight

Rose Parfait

Getting Ready for Valentine's Day - Already

2010-01-10T22:15:00.003-06:00

I say already like I'm working on these items and it's December or something, well at least Valentine's Day is still over a month away, so there is still time to buy your loved one's something unique and handmade from me. I've added a mini frame and a couple owl card/magnet combo's to my etsy shop, please feel free to go check them out; I've also been getting stuff done for my space here in town at Creativity in Bartlett; so I've been busy and enjoying working on something other than snowflakes.

Here are some of my new items (that can be found in Creativity) or you can contact me and I can create something just as original for you - in addition to the matchstick notepads I have mini frames and a double photo holder - I've gotten back into making roses and I miss them; these turned out so pretty I want to keep them or least make a set for me.

Mini Rose Frame

Mini 3 Heart and Text Frame

Rose Wood Double Photo Holder

Happy 2010!

2010-01-04T21:04:00.005-06:00

Wow, it's almost the fifth day of the new year and I'm just now wishing everyone a Happy New Year; I can see things haven't completely changed; I'm still a smidge late on things. Perhaps that should be one of my new year's resolutions, try to be on time; I hate watching time so I just don't see it happening.

I started out the year on a creative high you could say. I attended a crop at the locally owned scrapbook shop in my area and was very productive. I finished 20 cute little valentine matchbooks, each with 12 sheets of paper, cut by me. The front of each matchbook has a tiny scalloped edge with a little bit of glitter ( I love glitter! ) and a quilled heart. These are samples that will be part of the January 2010 Valentine Themed Boxes at Sampler Village, go check them out and see what it's all about.

After finishing these up I started on Valentine cards with owl magnets attached; they're a card and a gift all in one; perfect to give to your favorite Valentine this year. The owl magnet fits perfectly in a hole on the front of the layered card, once the owl is removed there's a little secret behind there, too cute! I hope everyone is having a fabulous 2010 so far, I think this is going to be a good year.

In Love With Magnets

2009-12-21T11:07:00.005-06:00

I've always loved magnets, but lately for some reason I keep coming back to magnets when I'm trying to think up something new to create. My coworker came over this weekend with his kiddo's to exchange Christmas gifts with my children and for his 9 year old daughter I created a magnetic board - my second one ever to create and I thought it turned out adorable. Bright contrasting colors which will go perfectly with her lime green and hot pink room.

Close up of Magnet Board

The other was a round cross magnet, the base being paper mache which I've painted ivory; I then covered the front with striped paper and using an ivory colored chalk I dabbed over it to lighten it so the quilled cross would pop more. Very pretty.

Close up of Cross Magnet

Happy December!

2009-12-09T15:54:00.004-06:00

I've been out of it for a bit, I was in the Christmas in Bartlett craft festival and I've been busy ever since trying to finish up some custom orders. One order was for a nice woman that wanted a business card holder, her business card has bright colored circles and she wanted to have the same on her holder but also wanted it a chocolate brown color - I think it turned out too cute. Another order was for personalized magnets, I'm showing just one of them here; I liked them so much I'm offering them in my etsy shop - who wouldn't love a magnet with their name on it done in such a swirly twirly original way, I love it! Perfect stocking stuffer. I'm thinking I may also make some a little larger with inspirational words....new stuff coming soon.

Circle Business Card Holder

Personalized Quilled Magnet