Craftin' Kind of Day

Halloween Fun

It's the perfect kind of day for a little crafting. Halloween is Tuesday and there's still Lots of time to work on some special treat bags for the kids. 

Stop in and see what fun you can get into. Open 10-3 today!  

Kim

Dream Catching

From the moment I brought in this Dream Catcher kit from Kaisercraft, I knew it was something I HAD to create and play with.  I started to work on it one other time but it just didn't come to me.  Last night was THE night.  This beauty was born and oh does it make me happy.

It was one of those days were I found myself frustrated with the mundane.  Work, cooking, cleaning, laundry....blah, blah, blah.  I went into my craft room trying to work on my design for the Zonta Cardmaking Extravaganza but totally got side tracked.   Procrastination?  Maybe.  Just what I needed?  Absolutely!  I find working with paper and pretty things to lighten my mood and set my mind at ease.  Picture this......Here I am.....enter craft room.  Take a deep breath in.  Get fingers all inky.  Breath out.  Feel good....AND proud!

Dream Catcher Kit by Kaisercraft

I started  with this wooden kit by Kaisercraft.  I have worked with many of their "Beyond the Page" projects over the years and they are incredible.  This is a good size project too.  Just to give you an idea, the diameter of the circle is 9.5". 

The next step was to decide how I was going to apply colour.  As you know, I am in love with Distress Oxide Inks.  I love everything about them from the vibrant colours, their coverage, the way their react with water, etc, etc. I sponged colour directly onto the wood and also used stencils for texture and design.  One thing I did notice is that the ink seemed to be absorbed by the wood.  That was fine.  They still look cool but most of the small details from the stencils were lost.  I didn't want that to happen to the main circle portion of the project so I applied gesso.  This helped to seal the wood and allow the ink to sit on top.  I used my most favourite detailing stamp of all time (Script stamp by Magenta Style) and stamped directly onto the gesso using picked raspberry.  I then dusted a little more picked raspberry to add a little more colour. YES!  It was all happening.....

Weddingstar - Mini Circle Garland

I then tied these fun little mini circle banners to the hoop and let them dangle between the feathers.  I loved how they filled the space a little more.  Just what I needed!  As a side, I have used these on everything from scrapbook layouts to cards to tying gift bag handles.  A great staple product to have lying around.

The Details - Flowers, feathers, chipboard,
trim, stickers, film and more!

Then the real fun came in.  Adding all the goodies.  I knew the new Carousel line by Crate Paper would pair beautifully with the teals and fuchsia.  I used these papers to make paper flowers using various Spellbinder and MFT dies. I LOVE rolling these pretty papers to make flowers.  

Prima Flowers - Tales of You & Me

I also added some pre-made Prima flowers.  They were THE perfect size and colour.  It is always nice to have basics like this around.

Crate Paper - Gallop

Did you see how I used this paper?  I made a couple paper flowers at first but knew I had to cut one of these guys out and tuck him in somewhere.  LOVE!  I could see this teal zebra galloping in my dreams.  

Tim Holtz - Film Strip Ribbon

Remember this product?  It has been a staple at The Pickle like forever.  It's funny how I have forgotten about it.  See how I used this?  I trimmed a few small lengths and hot glued them in among the flowers.  It is appropriate too.  Don't you wish you could capture some of your dreams on this film?  You may start seeing this in EVERYTHING I create from this point on. 

This presentation though!
Ruffled fabric trim - We have this beauty in ivory and rose

You will also see some chipboard from Prima's Rose Quartz line, fabric trim, little gold hearts from Crate Paper and my signature twine!  It's all in the details isn't it?  So how did I know when to stop?  I didn't.  I just kept going until it felt right.  Oh....that and the fact that it was midnight and it was time to haul my butt to bed.  Ha.

Sigh.  This was awesome.  It made me feel SO good.  I'm still debating whether I give this beauty away (Jules tells me it would look great in her room) or keep it for me (it looks great in my craft room!).  Actually, the plan is to share this at the store for a while.  Have a look and tell me what you think.  I hope you enjoyed my post today.  Sharing this with you is all part of the fun for me.  You get that feel good therapy while creating and then again when sharing with those who appreciate your efforts.  ♥

Kim

Store Hours
Wed-Fri - 10am-5pm
Sat - 10am-3pm

Did you PLAY?

Did you play tonight or did you watch everyone else have all the fun?  I said enough surfing and grabbed a few supplies. 

A 6x6 pad of Halloween paper by Crate Paper called "After Dark". 

A 6x6 pad of paper by My Mind's Eye called "Trick or Treat".

A vintage tag Kit by Weddingstar.  This kit includes 10 tags, lots of twine and Kraft stickers. And honestly a few sequins and washi. 

Done. They are super simple but they make me so happy. My day is now complete. It CAN be this simple. 

Kim

Store Hours

Wed-Fri - 10am-5pm

Sat - 10am-3pm

3rd Saturday. FUN FUN FUN!

Craft with us if you DARE......

This Saturday is the 3rd Saturday of the month so that means a FREE make & take at The Pickle!  We have been doing this every month for more than a year now and based on the turn out, I can tell you like them.  As always, ghosts and ghouls of all ages and skill levels are welcome.  Drop in anytime between 10am-3pm.  This week is a Halloween themed projects.  Julia and I hope to show you a few TRICKS (of the trade) and send you home with a few TREATS too.  See you soon!!

PS....There are tons of new Halloween items in the store perfect for your favourite trick or treaters.  

Kim

Store Hours

Wed-Fri - 10am-5pm

Sat - 10am-3pm

Friday the 13th......Trick or Treat

Friday the 13th?  I remember catching glimpses of that movie when I was in Grade 7 or 8.  I swear I couldn't sleep for a week!  If you're like me, let's just forget the scary stuff and focus on cute witches with outstretched arms or those who know how to work a broom (she's got the broom pose down!).  

This is My Mind's Eye's Halloween collection called Trick or Treat.  I love the expected halloween colours but THOSE cats!  So funky and fun.

 We have brought in the 4x6 journal cards.  These are great in a pocket style scrapbook or why not use them on treat bags.  Glue on the front of the bag, add a little baker's twine.....done!  Superstar....a-gain!

Same goes for this adorable pack of die cuts from this line.  Dress up little tags, bags and more!

Now these stickers were too adorable not to post here.  These are from Paper House.  Jules pointed me to these items because one of her favourite bloggers was showing a stash of paper goodies and these were included.  They are SO fun.  My little prodigy is on the right path.

More Paper House stickers.  These are puffy.  Oh how I love my puffy stickers.

So what do you think?  Scary movie or cute crafting?  I know which I would choose.  Maybe I'll even let my black cat "Mewoo" join in on the fun just to get a little crazy.  OOOOOOO......

Kim

Store Hours

Wed-Fri - 10am-5pm

Sat - 10am-3pm

Classes - Still Time to Register

We have had one addition to the class schedule so I thought I would post all the classes again.  Please pop into the store to register or call the store (519-351-5220).  Each class is approximately 2 hours.  Grab a friend and have a little fun!  I think you will be amazed at what you create with your own two hands!!

Creative Cards by Hilary
Our resident queen of technique is back with two incredible cards.  You MUST come into the store to see these in person!  Work with distress inks, embossing folders, shimmer mist, dies, stamps, heat embossing and more.  See that incredible colour on the die cut leaves?  YOU create that using Nuance and pearl ex powders!  You will also get to free hand with Sharpies to create a playful border.  Many other sentiment stamps will be available for you to customize your cards.  As always, ALL levels of stamps are welcome.

Dates:  Wednesday, October 18 from 6-8pm
Cost:  $18+hst (includes a sweet treat from Homebaked Kitchen Co.)
Required Supplies:  scissors, adhesive
Suggested Supplies:  black sharpie (bring if you have one that you love, otherwise we will have some available)

Distress Oxide Backgrounds by Debbie
Aren't these card so bring and cheery?  You should see them in person!  Work with Ranger's Distress Oxide inks to create incredible backgrounds.  You will also work with dies, stamps, and more.  As always, ALL levels of stamps are welcome.

Dates:  Thursday, October 19 from 1-3pm OR Thursday, October 26 from 6-8pm
Cost:  $18+hst (includes a sweet treat from Homebaked Kitchen Co.)
Required Supplies:  scissors, adhesive

Scrapbooking with Laura
Laura has created a 12x12 layout that really shines.  She has worked with my all time favourite line by Prima called Rose Quartz.  The incredible rose gold foil is amazing and will work with any photo of a loved one, fur baby, florals, scenery and more.  You will be working with prills, chipboard, glitter, etc.  The entire 12x12 layout is matted on a heavy duty chipboard mat and is sturdy enough to hang directly on your wall.

Date:  Wednesday, October 25th
Time:  6-8:30pm
Cost:  $20+hst (includes a sweet treat from Homebaked Kitchen Co.)
Required Supplies:  scissors, adhesive, 1-4x6 photo
Suggested Supplies:  personal trimmer, edge distresser (bring these if you have)

Journals with a Purpose by Kim

You may remember that I ran a class back in July where the students created TWO identical 6x8 spiral bound lined journals.  One was to be taken home and the other was to be donated to The Women's Centre.  I was overwhelmed with the response to this class.  Twelve amazing women signed up for this class sight unseen.  Everyone walked away with a project that they were proud of.  They were also happy to donate to these women and children who use these journals as place to voice their inner thoughts and feelings.  I have written in journals and diaries my entire life (I received my first diary from my parents when I was in Grade 5) and I know how important they have been to me. Why don't you join me?  Not only will you feel all warm and fuzzy, you will also learn A LOT!  We will be working with my favourite inks (Distress Oxides), stencils, stamps, heat embossing, glitter and more. Every student put their own spin on the design and I must say I was SO impressed with every journal and you will be too.

Date:  Thursday, October 19th

Time:  6-8:30pm

Cost:  $20+hst (includes a sweet treat from Homebaked Kitchen Co.)

Required Supplies:  scissors, adhesive

Suggested Supplies:  bone folder (only bring if you have one)

Everyone has put heart and soul into these designs and I hope you enjoy them and consider joining in on the fun. 

Kim

Store Hours
Wed-Fri - 10am-5pm
Sat - 10am-3pm

Yes! It's All Happening

I LOVE when the counter looks like this!  Incredible paper goods are arriving and my heart just sings.  Zoom in.....what lovelies do you see?  Beautiful dies from Elizabeth Crafts, Memory Box, Taylored Expressions.  Wonderful stamps from Hero Arts, Poppy Stamps, MFT, Stampingbella, etc.  Papers and Embellishments from Prima, One Canoe Two, My Mind's Eye.  Embossing folders, stencils and more.  THIS is the time of year that I love.  They are calling for rain for a day or two?  No problem.  Lock me in my craft room.  I've got some ideas floating around in my brain that need to take flight. 

Kim

Store Hours
Wed-Fri - 10am-5pm
Sat - 10am-3pm

Thankful

I was all smiles this weekend thanks to beautiful weather, incredible food shared with family and time spent creating. These little tags made me so happy and recharged my spirit. Julia and I spent the day crafting on our patio table and it felt so good chatting about designs and watching her get excited about her own creations. 

The Paper Pickle has brought so much joy to my life. I've watched you grow as crafters and I've learned so much from you. Paper crafters have to be some of the most thoughtful and caring people. We stress over designs because we care so much for our loved ones. We want them to love our creations. And guess what?  I would bet money that they love EVERYTHING you make. In this fast paced world, handcrafted cards and gifts get noticed because they are so rare.   

I want to thank you for supporting The Pickle over the past 14 years. It means so much. 

Kim 

Vintage Blessings

It is going to be a busy week....I'm not going to lie.  Prepping Thanksgiving dinners and parties, oh my!  But why not have a little crafty fun WHILE prepping for the party?

This line by Simple Stories will do just the trick.  Cut up this 12x12 sheet of paper and add a little crafty flair to your place settings.  Add on top of a napkin or dinner plate and voila.  Superstar!

 These little packs of ephemera are adorable too!  Glue onto place cards.  Punch a hole and use twine to tie to napkins.  Or make a fun little card and write inside why you are thankful.  These little gestures take under 15 minutes to complete but are so rewarding.  You are never too busy to show someone you care.  BONUS....you get to keep your sanity.  Crafting is my #1 stress reliever.  You got this girl!

Check out all the other beautiful products we have in store.  Back by popular demand.....I have brought in more muslin bags that are perfect little favours for your guests.  They come in two sizes (3x4" and 4x6").  Add candies, a special note of thanks, a small photo or more.  We sell these individually for under $2.

So why don't you stop by?  I know you can create something wonderful.  And don't forget to grab a gourmet dessert from Homebaked Kitchen too.

Kim

Store Hours
Wed-Fri - 10am-5pm
Sat - 10am-3pm

Fall Classes - Time to Get your Craft On

Creative Cards by Hilary
Our resident queen of technique is back with two incredible cards.  You MUST come into the store to see these in person!  Work with distress inks, embossing folders, shimmer mist, dies, stamps, heat embossing and more.  See that incredible colour on the die cut leaves?  YOU create that using Nuance and pearl ex powders!  You will also get to free hand with Sharpies to create a playful border.  Many other sentiment stamps will be available for you to customize your cards.  As always, ALL levels of stamps are welcome.

Dates:  Wednesday, October 11 from 1-3pm OR Wednesday, October 18 6-8pm
Cost:  $18+hst (includes a sweet treat from Homebaked Kitchen Co.)
Required Supplies:  scissors, adhesive
Suggested Supplies:  black sharpie (bring if you have one that you love, otherwise we will have some available)

Scrapbooking with Laura
Laura has created a 12x12 layout that really shines.  She has worked with my all time favourite line by Prima called Rose Quartz.  The incredible rose gold foil is amazing and will work with any photo of a loved one, fur baby, florals, scenery and more.  You will be working with prills, chipboard, glitter, etc.  The entire 12x12 layout is matted on a heavy duty chipboard mat and is sturdy enough to hang directly on your wall.

Date:  Wednesday, October 25th
Time:  6-8:30pm
Cost:  $20+hst (includes a sweet treat from Homebaked Kitchen Co.)
Required Supplies:  scissors, adhesive, 1-4x6 photo
Suggested Supplies:  personal trimmer, edge distresser (bring these if you have)

Journals with a Purpose by Kim

You may remember that I ran a class back in July where the students created TWO identical 6x8 spiral bound lined journals.  One was to be taken home and the other was to be donated to The Women's Centre.  I was overwhelmed with the response to this class.  Twelve amazing women signed up for this class sight unseen.  Everyone walked away with a project that they were proud of.  They were also happy to donate to these women and children who use these journals as place to voice their inner thoughts and feelings.  I have written in journals and diaries my entire life (I received my first diary from my parents when I was in Grade 5) and I know how important they have been to me. Why don't you join me?  Not only will you feel all warm and fuzzy, you will also learn A LOT!  We will be working with my favourite inks (Distress Oxides), stencils, stamps, heat embossing, glitter and more. Every student put their own spin on the design and I must say I was SO impressed with every journal and you will be too.

Date:  Thursday, October 19th

Time:  6-8:30pm

Cost:  $20+hst (includes a sweet treat from Homebaked Kitchen Co.)

Required Supplies:  scissors, adhesive

Suggested Supplies:  bone folder (only bring if you have one)

How to Register
Please stop into the store during store hours (see below for details) or call to reserve your spot (519-351-5220).  Pre-payment is required in order to secure your place in class (payment required 72 hours from time of registration).  If you are not able to attend, you are responsible for finding your own replacement (please feel free to call us to see if there are people on our waiting list and we may be able to help you out).  I'm sorry but no refunds are possible.  All instructions and supplies will be forwarded on if you cannot attend.

Everyone has put heart and soul into these designs and I hope you enjoy them and consider joining in on the fun.

Kim

Store Hours
Wed-Fri - 10am-5pm
Sat - 10am-3pm