For weeks now, I have been thinking about how and what to create that is a little different from my normal style. One thing I came up with was, what I call my “cutsie” range of printed cards. Still cards, but totally different from the embellished style already on offer.

Whilst happy with the end result of this new range, I find myself always constantly searching for new and original ideas. Something that is a little left field to the current items I create.

Speaking of coincidence, while I was browsing Heart Harmony blog I came across this really interesting article that Ingrid had recently posted, which related to exactly the way I have been thinking.

I do have a few ideas, not quite ready to share just yet, and which need to be worked on more thoroughly, including more brainstorming sessions with my creative advisor/critic ~ DH.

I am currently in the process of moving my online store over to a new site, so please bear with me as I am still uploading and moving item listings.

This should be completed within the next week.  However, the store is accessible to purchase the items already listed.

I am updating all the old links, as we speak, to display the new one, but if you happen to come across a link to the old store, please use the link in the Fav Links.

Thank you for your patience!

I was just reading blog posts over at Small Business Diva and came across this great quote that Donna-Marie had posted about “doing that little bit extra.”

“Four short words sum up what has lifted most successful individuals above the crowd: a little bit more. They did all that was expected of them and a little bit more.”
A. Lou Vickery, Writer

I don’t know about anyone else, but I am always looking for ways to add a little bit extra for my customers, whether it be adding a special little gift or going that extra distance with customer service.

I’ve actually written an article about different ways to excel in customer service by adding those touches to enhance your business. You can read it here, Exceptional Customer Service = Exceptional Business.

These cards I’ve created a little away from the usual style of design I create, being printed designs.

They are all printed onto white glossy card. The inside is left blank for personal messages or notes. They are suitable for either a general occasion card or can be used as a notecard.

All of the print designs are available for small wholesale orders. Please see wholesale page for details.

This is a mouse drawn graphic that I created today. The card is a cute little romantic style.

Cheer up a friend or family member, with a “send a hug” card. It’s sure to brighten their day.

Friends are so important so why not let them know with this cute “girlfriends” card.

This one is a print from a watercolour painting I did and I thought would make a nice greeting card.

This one is a print of a graphic I did (thanks to a tutorial) and a real cutie to send to a family member or a friend who may not be feeling quite up to “scratch”.

All are available in my store now and are available either as a single or in a two pack.

New item to be added to store.

This has been created with one of Cristina Re flocked papers, gold satin ribbon, beige flowers adorned in the centre with pink gemstones and a digital image brush.

I so love all Cristina Re papers, they are gorgeous!

Card is blank on the inside for your own personal message.

This can be bought as a single.

I recently came across this relatively new website called Living Creatively, which is offering competitions, up to date information on all the latest worldwide craft trends, community forums and lots more.

Free membership is available, and by joining, you are offered a free subscription of one the craft magazines they have on offer.

Their latest competition is about showing off your creations and raising awareness about how cool craft is. You can check it out on their competiton page.

Also, by linking to their website, either text or one of their banners, you will go into the draw to win one of six advertising packages valued at $5,000 AUD.

Well worth checking out.

Today, I decided to create a few more new designs for baby showers. The graphics are digitally created and the cards are available in packs of 8 with envelopes.

I will be adding them to the store within the next few days.

Here is a fun little quiz I found over at The Tall Poppy. Thanks Anne!

Take it and see if you are the artistic, creative type or the logical type who possesses the gift of the gab.

My results speak for themselves and did not surprise me in the least.

You Are 25% Left Brained, 75% Right Brained

The left side of your brain controls verbal ability, attention to detail, and reasoning.
Left brained people are good at communication and persuading others.
If you’re left brained, you are likely good at math and logic.
Your left brain prefers dogs, reading, and quiet.

The right side of your brain is all about creativity and flexibility.
Daring and intuitive, right brained people see the world in their unique way.
If you’re right brained, you likely have a talent for creative writing and art.
Your right brain prefers day dreaming, philosophy, and sports.

Are You Right or Left Brained?

This really has nothing to do with cards or cardmaking, but being a handmade item, I had to make a post about this gorgeous rose quartz bracelet from Annette Piper Jewellery.

Rose Quartz is one of my favourite gems and is known for its healing and calming qualities, as well as being the stone of love.

You can see why ~ you can’t help but fall in love with it ~ it’s stunning!

A solid greeting card has the power to touch the human heart and it will compel its reader to feel, to laugh, to smile. Play your cards right - “Ultimate Cardmaking” is the only card book you ever need buy! Covering a wide range of occasions from anniversaries to seasonal highlights, children’s cards to invitations, this fabulous collection features the best cards from Sarah Beaman’s two previous books - “Fast Cards” and “The Complete Guide to Cardmaking” - and a range of new and exclusive cards.The book is packed with creative techniques covering every type of card making. Clear step-by-step pictures and detailed instructions take you through every technique, from creating hand-stitched or beaded edges for cards to pressing and attaching flowers. Moreover, a gallery section provides readers with a bevy of new cardmaking ideas (40,000 words).