Annarack

A bit of Ying Yang and glitter

2012-02-21T13:45:00.002Z

There is so much 70's, hippie styled jewellery coming back into fashion and I never thought after my teenage years I would it love just as much as I did then (btw I wasn't born in the 70's he he a lot of it came into fashion in the 90's again). I found this pretty Ying Yang gold necklace (Lead and Nickel free always a bonus) from a shop on ebay which you can see here. They also have a couple of other necklaces I would like. I would also like the skull, cross and wishbone ones. By doing a bit of research I came across some studs that go with the necklaces, see here. Another thing I bought was this Technic glitter nail varnish. It is a great alternative to the expensive O.P.I one, though if you want to add a couple of layers of it to your nails it is a right pain to get off. But other than that it is so pretty when on, even with one layer over a contrasting colour. I couldn't stop looking at it. You don't even need to use topcoat. I'll blog one day about my painted nails and show you guys what it looks like. I bought the varnish off Amazon here for £1.50. I haven't received it yet but I asked my sister if she could get me this peace sign, feather necklace from H&M as she gets discount there, she has very kindly bought it for me, but won't let me have it till she comes home next month...grrrrrr...I'll get her back.

Birthday Mail Art from Deirdre McCormick

2012-02-19T15:42:00.001Z

Received another MIND-BLOWING mail art package from my wonderful friend Deirdre McCormick. She has spoilt me rotten :) I knew she was going to make me a birthday crown, but bloody hell the work she put into is AMAZING!!! And yes it is all hand drawn, must have taken her hours and hours to do. It is one of the most beautiful and thoughtful gifts anyone has ever given to me and I am truly touched. I just love the colours used, the intricate detailing, ribbons, silver sparkly letters and the pink wheel like shapes on the top of the crown. Even the back was heavily detailed. I have been wearing it on and off and yes I do feel like a princess when I wear it :D Don't you guys think that Deirdre should make these and sell them on Etsy, I bet lots of kids would love one of these on their birthday.

One of the things I love most about Deirdre's packages is the presentation. She doodled all over the box that and even doodled on some of the paper inside. I just love all of these attentions to detail they are so pretty. I kinda have a thing for glassine bags and paper and there was quite a bit wrapped around this cute paper with foxes, trees, etc on it.

I also received these beautifully illustrated playing cards with all sorts of animals on them. I thought they would look great on my hanging spider clip frame. I should have taken an up close photograph but on the back of the cards there are these tiny bird houses.

Got these awesome vintage Chinese bags and some pretty U.S.A stamps.

I love my birthday card and what a great idea for some quirky shoes.

Deirdre did a lovely blog post on paper dolls she used to play with as a child and I loved them. I received some she used play with and that must have been hard to give them to me, with so much sentimental value. I shall treasure them always.

How awesome is this. It is a book pin which I made from a kit. Atlas's are definitely a way to my heart.

These made me chuckle. Lots of old advertisments for soap, cigarettes, hair, etc. The funniest is the one about making your ears smaller (see bottom photo, top right).

A while ago Deirdre showed some vintage wallpaper on her blog and I said how much I loved them. We both love old wallpaper catalogues and I was oooohhhing and arrhhhiiinnggg over these two especially. I can't believe she gave me two samples of it. They are FANTASTIC and I am going to frame them a.s.a.p. They make me want to live in a quiet and quaint harbour village.

Thank you so much Deirdre, you totally made my day and birthday when I got your AMAZING package x

Jewellery for Sale

2012-02-18T13:02:00.001Z

Fenwicks Perspex Flower fabric ring: £6 NOW £4

Topshop Geometric Gold Studs £3 NOW £1.50

~~Accessorize Blue Sparkly Studs £3 NOW £1.50~~
SOLD

Topshop Vintage Style Studs ~~£2.50~~ NOW £1

Topshop Geometric Diamond Style Studs £3 NOW £1.50

~~Accessorize Silver Tone Studs £2.50 NOW £1~~
SOLD

~~Accessorize Silver Plated Pearl Drop Earrings £2.50 NOW £1.50~~
SOLD

UK p/p- 75p

Worldwide p/p- £1.50

I accept paypal only me dears :)

If your interested in buying any of my jewellery please leave a comment saying what you would like and the email address you use for paypal so I can set up a transaction or email me here at annajanesearle@hotmail.co.uk

If you have any questions for me please leave a comment and I will get back to you a.s.a.p :)

Mail art to Saylor Made

2012-02-14T23:00:00.001Z

Its been a while since I did some mail art of my own and I'm glad to get back into swing of things, as I have been collecting a few bits and bobs. My lovely friend in Canada; Jeannine Saylor has been adorned with more nautical goodies. If I see something with a ship or compass on it I always think of Jeannine and have been collecting a few pieces for her. I sent lots of paper ephemera some being vintage, stickers, hand-drawn compass postcard, an article on old atlas's, hand-made paper garland and some of my buttons I have been making recently. By the way I sell my buttons over here :) You will see a little blue and white bag I used to put some of the paper goods in with carousels on it, well I bought those on Etsy, I couldn't resist them.

Shop Announcement

2012-02-13T15:08:00.003Z

I have finally opened up my new Bigcartel shop. I hope you guys like it and I also put a new header design on it too. Prices start from £1.50 for buttons. I am waiting for my chains to arrive in the post hopefully early next week and then I will put up my necklaces for sale. Visit my new shop Here.

Last of the big spenders....

2012-02-11T21:35:00.001Z

I went shopping with my mum yesterday as I had some presents to buy for people and still had some of my birthday money to spend. There is so much I want to buy in Topshop, Urban Outfitters and H&M at the moment. I am going to hold out till more spring stock comes in as a lot of the colours in are still toned down and I want bright colours to add to my wardrobe.

Brace yourselves for an image heavy post and some writing ;)

'Love Boat' Sweater- Primark / Mustard Yellow Long Sleeve T-shirt- M&S

Socks- Primark / Casio Watch- Ebay / Pencil Case and pen- Paperchase

Sailor Stickers- Gaf / Woodland Animal Foam Stickers- Paperchase

Bambi Clip-On Earrings and Ring Set- H&M

(Bought these for my little cousins birthday)

Hot Buys

The images below show some things I saw on my outing that I thought you guys may like. I went to Lush for the first time in years and I was so impressed with the presentation and the products they have on sale.

This smells divine....'Bubblegum' Lip Scrub- Lush

The smell of this one took me back to my childhood- 'Happy Blooming' Bath Melt- Lush

Topshop have some awesome jewellery in as always. By now you guys probably know I like things with moons, stars and suns on them.

I try'd on this pretty dress in H&M and for £14.99 you can't complain.

I noticed a lot of jewellery with initials on them in Topshop and Urban Outfitters, they had the best collections from what I saw. I wish I could have you shown a particular necklace in Topshop I loved but they don't have it up on their site.

Primark have got these amazing Vivienne Westwood style wellington boots in at only £10, how good is that. I think I am going to have to buy them when I go into town next, thats if there are any left. I found it difficult to find an image of these and in finding this photograph I came across this awesome blog 'Hannah Louise Fashion'.

ELULA

we went to Elula which is a shop that sells fair trade goodies, rocks and gemstones, jewellery, you name it. It is such a cosy shop with lovely incense smells and soft music. Having a coffee or cup of tea is essential to anyone's shopping trip and they have a charming tea room down in the basement of the shop, so if your in Newcastle make sure to make a trip to Elula. I bought myself some crystal shards to make into a necklace and possibly a ring. You can see my attempt at wrapping wire around to make one into a pendant, but I might have to re-adjust it, but I think my first attempt is pretty good. Here is the tutorial I used on Youtube. I used to have a necklace that held gemstones in a wire swirl and thought after all these years I would buy another. I got a beautiful faceted piece of Rhodonite with its hues of pink and yellow and placed into the metal swirl pendant and added a piece of suede cord. I have just bought a Moonstone gemstone too so I can change the stone over. I really want to buy more gemstones like Dalmatian Jasper and Snowflake Obsidian.

A Stag

2012-02-07T13:04:00.001Z

I won this awesome stag head bracelet at the weekend on Tantrum Magazine's Twitter page. I can't wait to wear it, especially as all the crystals with sparkle. If you wanted to buy yourself one of these you can here on the Babi-online shop which has some wicked jewellery on offer. Thank you so much Nav and Babi I just love it.

Lionheart Magazine and a Telescope

2012-02-06T20:55:00.001Z

This has to be the best magazine I have ever read, the whole thing was a total joy to read. I read it every night for two weeks because it is like a book. I am so proud of all my twitter illustrator friends involvement and their work looks great. The presentation and layout is superb followed by beautiful and inspirational writing. There is a bit of everything in this magazine such as fashion, illustration, textiles, photography, art, recipes, books and music. I was very interested in the music part as I had not heard a single one mentioned and I am always craving to hear new tunes. An article in particular I enjoyed reading was about this couple who live in a converted, bespoke truck. I always find it fascinating how how other people live in places like this, it takes you too a whole other world. Helen you have created something unique and very special and I am waiting in anticipation for your next issue.

Below are some photos of a beautiful necklace I won last week on the blog 'Wallpaper Rose'. It is a working telescope, yes that's right it brings everything closer or far away when looking through either end, so awesome. There is also the cutest umbrella and rose charm with pretty beads attached. I love the name of the collection this necklace is in called 'The Baudelaire's', as I love 'The Series of Unfortunate Events' film and books, which I am currently reading. I even got a little badge with the prettiest flower pattern on it. Thank you so much Louise it is perfect.

Pendants

2012-02-05T13:34:00.001Z

I know I said this like two weeks ago but I want to set up my new shop soon, I've just been so busy with submissions and other things so I am sorry for the massive delay. I made all of these pendants recently and I am going to be selling them in my shop as necklaces, but I can't find delicate silver plated chains anywhere. I have had some great advice on where to get some and I love what I have seen but they aren't quite right for my pendants as the links are too big. I want the links that are about 1.5mm...anyone got any suggestions? I would be so grateful.

p.s. Sorry about the photo being so green, I don't know why I used it as a background colour. I will try and take better photos of them in the near future.

Few bits of Mail Art

2012-02-04T16:07:00.000Z

From Kira Walker:

Kira sent me her first mail art to me about two weeks ago. She wrote the most loveliest and touching letter and drew some awesome mountains on the back.

From Jules Young:

I received this awesome mail from Jules quite a while ago which has an awesome print of an animal on the front. When I wasn't very well last year she wanted to cheer me up a bit with some goodness in the post and it sure did. I received a lovely hand-typed letter and she told me because the paper is thin the typewriter punched tiny holes in the letters and which made such a cool effect. Jules wrapped everything up so beautifully. I also got two postcards, a cute illustration of a girl flying high in the air with some balloons and a framed piece of embroidery with my name stitched on. I love the fabric and the little silver leaf charm too.

From Rachel Troutman:

This is Rachel's first EVER mail art and she sent me some lovely little pieces of printed and original artwork. All the pieces of artwork have been given names for example 'Comforting' and 'Wandering'. Rachel also gave me some magazine cuttings and did an altered art page titled 'She's a Femme Fatale' adding flowers and shapes around the model.

Thank you so much ladies and I'm sorry for the delay in posting these up and also for some of the dark pictures. Its been too dark today with all this snow forecast.

Guilt Free Shopping

2012-02-03T10:58:00.000Z

(below is the back of the bracelet)

I know you guys are probably getting bored with my birthday pressie posts but I had been waiting for things to arrive in the post and I have had money to spend (and still do). Yesterday I went for a shopping trip in Newcastle to see if I could get some clothes possibly, but didn't have much luck other than I got this awesome t-shirt from Primark. Come on who can resist a tee with a ship on it, I think I might wear it today. I also went to Urban Outfitters and I normally come out with nothing because it is such an over priced shop, but they had a good sale and even some of the new stock jewellery was very reasonable. I know what your thinking like Anna needs more jewellery, but they called to me ''buy me... BUY ME!!!''. I ended up buying a bracelet and two pairs of earrings. Its a big part of my style and I basically feel naked without jewellery on, well unless I'm stuck in the house that is. After an enjoyable, guilt free shopping trip I went to Costa and got myself a Mocha for free with some points on a card my mum lent me. Sat down for half an hour reading 'Fantastic Mr. Fox' whilst looking out for hot guys (coffee shops never fail in this area)...good times :)

My Birthday Presents part 2

2012-01-31T14:14:00.001Z

I have been waiting a while for these beauties to come in the post. I spent some of my birthday money on the two and I wouldn't normally spent so much on tape but they were worth it as I wanted something different to all the other washi tapes I have seen. They cost me about £7 each and you can buy them here but I know they are limited edition so if you wanted to get yourself some buy them now. The Woodland animal one has little descriptions and the Latin names, there is also a bear, rabbit and hedgehog on the tape. The solar system one has the distances and sizes of each planet. I can't believe they missed out Pluto, why???

I can't wait to use them on my mail art packages.

P.S. I'm giving a little shout out to a new blogger I have come across called 'Simone' and she dresses so cool and has the most amazing head of hair, I am jealous. She has this awesome giveaway on here blog where a few people will be chosen to win some of her awesome pieces of clothing. So if you want to enter just click here and comment.

Part 1 Of My Birthday Presents

2012-01-28T20:51:00.000Z

I know I have left this blog post quite late seeing as my birthday was a week ago today but I have been waiting for a few things to come in the post and still am so hence why this is part 1. I got quite a bit of birthday money too so after I go shopping next week I shall blog part 2. I received so many lovely presents. I got a hand embroidered pencil case, heart locket, cat notebook, 5x cds (Fleet foxes 'Helplessness Blues' and 'Fleet Foxes', Fantastic Mr. Fox soundtrack, Lykke Li 'Wounded Rhymes' and Prince Caspian Soundtrack) and a hand-made printed patch. My sister and her boyfriend got me some amazing vintage Sandylion stickers to add to my growing collection, takes me back to my childhood. My uncle and auntie gave me the most beautiful antique Victorian embroidered purse in a lovely old Christmas box. By what is written on the card and box it was made by one of the ladies who did embroidery for Queen Victoria, what a wonderful piece of history and I shall treasure it always.

Bargain Buys

2012-01-23T13:57:00.000Z

Bought some real bargains last week. Haven't done a blog post like this for a little while. I'm afraid I'm not very good at taking photos of clothes or shoes, but maybe someone could give me some tips. Anyhoo back to the bargains. At the beginning of last week I made a trip to Alnwick and went into this really wonderful and colourful shop called 'A World of Difference' which sells Fair Trade items. I bought the little Owl from the Fair trade shop for 85p, they had 15 % off everything, he's a lovely addition to my book shelf. I have been wanting another mood ring for ages and found the perfect one on ebay in the shape of a moon. The lady who sells the mood rings has many other styles and it only cost me £1.44 which you can buy here . I went shopping in town and obviously had to make a trip to Primark. They have the most amazing deals on their shoes at the moment, virtually all the sale was £6. I bought three pairs for £18, best buys EVER!!! I couldn't resist the the red coloured shoes in the loafer and brogue styles. I have already worn my red and purple loafers and they are some of the most comfortable I have ever worn. They also had them in beige and black, but I wanted to get some brighter colours. I just had to get the oxtail blood coloured brogues, they had those in black and mustard yellow as well. I am so tempted to buy more.

Another Sneak Peek

2012-01-19T14:21:00.002Z

Within the next week I want to set up and brand my new shop on Big cartel. Also need to do a lovely new header. I have been making so may of these buttons, and next up I will be making key rings and then jewellery. Let me know what you think as I love to read your comments.

I win :)

2012-01-18T23:08:00.003Z

Can't believe I won another giveaway. Sumi Senthi had a wonderful giveaway on her blog which had three different prizes so three people could win. I received an awesome set of badges and postcard with some of her illustrations on them. It wasn't part of the prize but Sumi so very kindly gave me a print of her ship illustration as she knew I loved it so much, isn't it just mind-blowing!!!

Thank you very much Sumi you spoil me ;)

Blog and Buy Jewellery SALE!!!!

2012-01-18T13:42:00.002Z

~~Bird Necklace £5~~
SOLD

~~Droplet Earrings £1.50~~
SOLD

~~Beaded Necklace (the odd bead has lost its colouring which you can see in the above photo) £2~~
SOLD

~~Circular Drop Earrings £1.50~~
SOLD

~~Green Drop Earrings £1.50~~
SOLD

UK p/p- £1

Worldwide p/p- £1.50

I accept paypal only me dears :)

If your interested in buying any of my jewellery please leave a comment saying what you would like and the email address you use for paypal so I can set up a transaction or email me here at annajanesearle@hotmail.co.uk

If you have any questions for me please leave a comment and I will get back to you a.s.a.p :)

Collaboration No.3

2012-01-16T15:44:00.005Z

This is the third and final piece from the collaboration I have been doing with Jessica Gowling. I thought I would do something totally different to the other two I have done, as I have seen so many triangular shaped pieces of jewellery around and this inspired the shape I embroidered. There is lots of sparkle using glitter thread, spiral glass bugles and glass beads, I also wanted to do blue tones as it would show-off the yellowness of the blackbird.

D.I.Y Pom Pom Garland

2012-01-16T13:04:00.000Z

Yesterday I made two Pom Pom garlands for my bedroom and they were so much fun to make. I did a green and red woolen one and the other is made from chenille yarn in a terracotta and light green colours.

This is the site I got the D.I.Y from 'Stelabird'. I really want to make larger and smaller sized pom poms, may even pop some into my mail art packages. If any of you guys make your own please show me.

Miniature Buttons

2012-01-14T15:52:00.002Z

I couldn't wait anymore to show you guys my miniature hand-drawn buttons. I wanted to show how I am to present them, but the things I wanted to use haven't come in the post yet, but I thought I would show you a sneak peek anyway. I will be selling sets of these very soon in a new bigcartel shop, so watch this space.

Jewels From the Past....

2012-01-10T13:46:00.000Z

From child hood presents to pieces I bought when I was a teen.....

Did you guys remember ring watches, they were the days.

My sister made a few of these when she studied textiles at college, on the back she sew'd her

trademark apple.

The heart one was one of my first ever necklaces. The middle necklace was from a burgundy pair of jeans I bought in my early teens. I think they were from BHS and they always gave free necklaces away with most of the kiddies trousers. The necklace at the back was given to me by one of lovely aunties, it sorta looks a bit roman, patterned inspired.

How do you tuck away your Jewellery?

2012-01-10T13:00:00.000Z

I thought I would show you lovelies how I keep all my jewellery in little boxes, trays and holders. There were a few things I didn't photograph as I have little glass jars that I keep some earrings and bracelets in, but they didn't photograph well. If any of you guys have done a similar blog post please show me as I love to have a nose around ;)

In the photograph below you can see my first EVER pair of earrings (the round purple ones below the cats). Do any of you's still have your first pair of earrings?

Collaboration No. 2

2012-01-09T15:53:00.000Z

Here is the second installment of the collaboration I am doing with Jessica Gowling. Its a lot different to the one I did before. The colours are more pastel in shade using green, purple and mauve tones with just a hint of turquoise coming through in the bead work. Its meant to look like a rock formation. The last two photos show off the true colours much better. I hope you guys like this one.

Collaboration No.1

2012-01-08T17:00:00.000Z

Sorry for the bad lighting in these photos, but today has been dark and I have been itching to show my first finished piece that I have collaborated with Jessica Gowling. Jessica printed three of the same bird (a yellow headed blackbird) on seperate pieces of fabric which she thought I could add some of my embroidery too. The idea is that I sew either a rock, branch or whatever I want so that the blackbird has something to stand on. I am very happy with my first piece, but the next one is going to be totally different, in fact I have nearly finished that one too, so watch this space.

Cat By Jaymie

2012-01-08T12:54:00.001Z

Last week I commissioned the very talented Jaymie O' Callaghan to make me one of her illustrated necklaces. I have been loving all her cat ones recently and just had to have one. I love the textural mark making and the soft colours used. Isn't the little polka dot bow so cute. I can't wait to wear it and I have the perfect earrings to go with it. I also loved how the necklace was presented as it came in a little organza pouch filled with rose petals, lilac and tiny cut out butterflies. Please visit her lovely shop here. Thank you again me dear I love it :)

Goodies Galore.....

2012-01-06T15:45:00.003Z

I ordered this awesome print of a beardy, tattooed guy hand printed by the lovely Ella Masters (Thank you so much me dear) and not only did I get one but she gave me a second one free. Don't you just love her little business card, its so cute. When I was working at my Charity shop this week I found this amazing patent leather Moschino bag and yes it is authentic as I have done my research into it. I wasn't sure whether it was real or not when I bought it, only cost me £2.60, this is my best buy EVER!!! Last week my godparents gave me for Christmas this wonderful book on paper cutting art. Su Blackwell who did the flowery one actually displayed her work at my university. Her work is my favourite of all paper cutting art and is a great inspiration to me. I hope one day that my book dioramas get into a book like this.

North American Indians

2012-01-03T15:57:00.003Z

I bought this wonderful book called 'David Brainerd the Apostle to the North American Indians', written by Jesse Page. It is by what I have researched a first edition published in 1891. I bought it for the grand total of £1 in one of the bookshops I always visit in Edinburgh. I was going to do one of my book dioramas in it but I obviously won't now. I normally just look at the front covers and buy them for my book dioramas, but sometimes when I'm home I find that I have picked up a little treasure like this one. You can't be too picky if they are only a £1 and if your just going to cut into it like me. I always make sure I research into my books first, before I regret.

Awesome Jewellery

2012-01-01T11:10:00.000Z

3 in 1 Eye necklace from Topshop

Heart Bracelet from Accessorize

Cat earrings from Topshop

My last buys from 2011 are these amazing pieces of jewellery I stumbled across in Topshop and Accessorize. The eye/moon/sun all in one necklace has almost sold out in my store as there was only 3 left. I actually wanted to get the eye studs, but it looked like they got snapped up. Why oh why did not get them when I saw them the last time I went shopping. Just goes to show you have to get in there quick or you will regret it. The cat earrings were also almost sold out too, I saw them the other day when I was in town and I kept thinking about them and I just had to have them. When you put them on you really feel like there is nothing in your ears, I thought they were going to be heavy. Last year Topshop had wolf ones just likes these, man I wish I had got them too. I just had to snap up this sterling silver bracelet from accessorize, it is so dainty and precious. It only cost me £3.60 originally £12, what a bargain. If you haven't already, get yourself down to accessorize to look at there 70% off sale, they have some lovely things in, especially their sterling silver range.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

2011-12-31T18:34:00.001Z

(A photo I took two years ago on Bonfire Night)

Thank you to all my followers for supporting my blog this year and also for helping me out on lots of things on twitter you guys are the best :)

I'm looking forward to lots of mail art swaps, and to see what will happen with my illustrations and where they will take me. I've got lots of ideas for things I want to draw and make, and I'm starting to make lots of lists so I don't forget them (ha ha old age is starting to get to me). Also really looking forward to my birthday which is on the 21st January (OMG!! I'm going to be 27) and I'm going to Barter Books next week, like I need more books, he he.

I hope everyone enjoys the rest of 2011 and that you all have a very Happy New Year!!!

I won another giveaway....

2011-12-31T12:38:00.000Z

Album 'Caught Light' by Chantilly

Fabric flower Earrings by Juniper Grace

Friendship Bracelet by Just Because

Lace Necklace by Hidden Cupcakes

A few months ago I won this lovely giveaway on Rebecca Caridad's blog. I would have posted about this sooner but I had been waiting for one of the items to come as the first one got lost in the post :( But thankfully everything has arrived now. I love all the things I got and also the free stickers I recieved from 'Juniper Grace'. Thank you so much guys I love everything :)

Presents Given to me :)

2011-12-29T11:03:00.000Z

From my Mum, Dad, Sister and her Boyfriend......

Pocket guide to 'Wild Flowers of the Wayside and Woodland' 1962 Edition

'Deer Talk' By Phyllis M. Bone 1962 First Edition

'Across Greenland's Ice-Fields' by M. Douglas First Edition 1902

'The Childhood of Animals' by P. Chalmers Mitchell.....First Edition 1912

Vintage, Silver Plated Clock Charm

'The Swiss Family Robinson' by Johann David Wyss, Circa 1920's

To My Mum and Dad I Gave......

2011-12-23T14:58:00.000Z

for Mum.....

For Dad....(I also got him some black fleece gloves, which aren't photographed)

For both Mum and Dad......

Masking sticker set: Hobbies from the Heart

Tape Measure from Marks and Spencer.

Books sourced from my local charity shop, see my detailed blog post on them here.

Badger Tea Towel: Sophie Parker

Die-cut Flowers: 32Northsupplies

Galleon and Clipper Ship drawings made by me :)

To My Sister and Her Boyfriend I gave......

2011-12-23T14:03:00.001Z

Wildlife stickers made by Jessica Gowling

Eagle and Owl Die-cuts from 32DegreesNorth

'Peter and the Wolf' book which I bought off Amazon.

'Beetle and Moth Specimen Diorama' made by me :)

Wrapping is fun

2011-12-23T13:29:00.001Z

I made my own tags using miniature matchboxes and decorating all the sides and then inserting tickets inside.

I used the sheets from the magazine 'Wrap' I was telling you all about yesterday.

I coiled some dark pink ribbon around another ribbon, just to make it a little different.

Wrap

2011-12-23T13:19:00.003Z

A couple of days ago I bought this wonderful magazine called 'Wrap'. I have been looking for the perfect Christmas wrapping paper as I like my gifts to look unique and different, so just by chance on twitter I came across Wraps online shop. The idea of the magazine is that you read all the interviews and illustrators profiles and when you've finished you then slide out the pages to reveal large sheets of wrapping paper. I am so scared to cut into any of the paper as the illustrations are fantastic, but I must be brave and go for it. The last image shows the gift tags for the wrapping paper, which I am going to keep for myself and maybe frame some of them as I have already made my own tags, which I shall be blogging about soon. I totally recommend this magazine to everyone. Here is their shop and if you want to buy anything you can get 15% off using this coupon code WELOVEWRAP (make sure to use it by 31st December).

Mail Art from The Second Magpie

2011-12-23T00:12:00.000Z

Boy oh boy have been in for a treat with this awesome package from the very talented @The Second Magpie (Sarah Hutchinson Burke). A while back I posted about some charity shop finds I bought, some being buttons, with one that a castle on it. Sarah said she had a button just like it and said she would send it too me. You are so kind Sarah :) So this button has started off our mail art swapping. The attention to detail and presentation has been carefully thought through. I received various pieces of artwork and collage, tiny tags, hand-made science based envelopes WIN!!! and the most precious vintage buttons and two lovely stamps, the one with the glasshouse on it reminds me of one of my drawings which you can see here. I also got a little pack of the prettiest flowers which are from the Mourne Mountains in Ireland. That name 'The Morne Mountains' reminded me suddenly of the Lord of the rings and this gave me such a good feeling inside, as its one of my most favourite things in the entire world. In fact if I got a Lord of the Rings inspired mail art I would probably scream with joy, hint hint ;) I'm so subtle...NOT!! I am totally in love with the Teabag collection with its beautiful description on the tag and the finger prints and dates. Even the colour all the paper has been dyed with, love all these personal little touches, what a great idea. Thank you so much for your amazing mail art Sarah it has brought me so much joy and happiness.

I won a Giveaway :)

2011-12-22T19:15:00.000Z

I won this great sponsored giveaway over on Amy Valentine's blog. I had $15 dollars to spend in this shop called Hobbies from the Heart (aka Marri) and boy did I have fun choosing :) I have been wanting some Washi Tape for ages and I have never used it before and I chose this cute green polka dot one. As well as that I got some seal stickers with typewriters on them, green tickets, tags and a pastel masking sticker set which I am going to give to my mum for Christmas, even though I want to keep them for myself. I also got some little Merry Christmas stickers free. Thank you so much Amy and Marri it totally made my day :)

Mixtape

2011-12-22T18:48:00.001Z

"Crystal" Stevie Nicks Practical Magic

2011-12-21T17:07:00.000Z

Mail Art to Ella Masters

2011-12-20T21:03:00.000Z

The very talented and blog queen @Ella Masters received a package full of goodies today. I was meant to send Ella her first mail art package from me ages ago and she has been so patient. I'm still in the middle of making a little something else for her but I made up for it with lots of interesting pieces. I send various items of vintage paper ephemera, jewellery trinkets, postage stamps, stickers, die-cuts and some of my hand-made miniature envelopes, stamp montages and a Christmas card. I also hand-typed some definitions on words to do with museums as I know she likes visiting them as much I do. So happy you love your goodies Ella :)

Mail Art to Being Little

2011-12-20T18:02:00.000Z

I have been meaning to do a mail art swap with @Being Little (aka Lyzi) for a while now. Lyzi sent me a lovely handmade Christmas card the other day (thank you me dear) and this prompted me to get a few goodies sent her way. Lyzi has a wonderful and inspiratonal blog which you can see here. I sent lots of vintage paper ephemera, jewellery trinkets, buttons, postage stamps, die-cuts, stickers, some hand-made miniature envelopes and one of my Christmas cards. I will be sending Lyzi a hand made goody very soon as I ran out of time to make her something before Christmas. So glad you like your treasures Lyzi :)

Mail Art to Muddleduck

2011-12-13T16:49:00.001Z

A while back I wasn't very well and the lovely and very kind @Jules Young (Muddleduck) send me some lovely handmade goodies to cheer me up and it very much did :) I shall blog about it very soon. This is my first mail art swap with Jules. I sent her one of my Christmas cards, various pieces of paper ephemera, vintage buttons, dies-cuts and stickers. I hand made a set of miniature envelopes and an origami box.

Mail Art to Sandra Dieckmann

2011-12-13T16:40:00.000Z

@Sandra very kindly gave me one of her tote bags recently, the one with the Bison on it ( I was gob-smacked :) and to say thank you I sent her some little goodies. Plus I have been wanting to do another mail art swap with Sandra for while now. I sent lots of paper ephemera, buttons, stickers, postage stamps, die-cuts, some of my miniature hand-made envelopes and a pack of my recent stickers, which picture many of my animal illustrations.

Expialidocious (Disney Remix)

2011-12-13T16:35:00.000Z

Liebster Blog Award

2011-12-12T18:21:00.001Z

I had a super duper surprise this morning. The awesome Melanie Chadwick who has a blog called Mellybee illustration nominated my blog to receive an award today. This really did put a big smile on my face and it is always good to hear what people think about your blog.

I have such a large list of blogs I follow but here are the five I am nominating:

http://www.dkmart.typepad.com/

Deirdre is a good friend of mine and her blog is always a joy to read. Her presentation of photos fascinates me as I have no idea how she does it. Deirdre's blog presents her lovely illustrations, love of vintage goodies and the cutest photographs of her new puppy 'Bonny'.

http://naturesmyfriend.wordpress.com/

Another good friend of mine is the very talented Jessica. Full of blog posts on mail art (she is the Queen of mail art), thrift buys, altered book pages and constant updates on her amazing wildlife inspired illustrations.

http://deerlittlefawn.blogspot.com/

Beth's blog is one of the best presented I have ever seen from the colours to the layout. You will find many a wonderful thing on this blog such as patterns for crochet, vintage buys, where to shop and lately Beth has been showing many pretty drawings and paintings from her sketchbook.

http://fashionforestry.blogspot.com/

Nicole's blog is one of the most eccentric and interesting blogs I have ever come across. The way she dresses is just WOW!!!! This girl has got style and I love her head pieces she wears as they go so beautifully with red hair (I'm jealous of anyone with red hair). The vintage finds she comes across are out of this world. If your a lover of vintage as much as me then you will love this blog.

http://www.ellamasters.com/

I always get excited when Ella does a blog post. Her blog is full of vintage goodies, jewellery, caravans, illustrations, D.I.Y tips and photos that she takes of what she is wearing on the day. What I like most are the photographs she takes, especially of her outfits. Ella also has an online shop called Velvet Feather where she sells beautiful hand-made jewellery, so make sure you check it out on her blog.

On accepting this award you're job is to:

write a blog post on receiving this award and add the Liebster picture
link back to the person who gave it to you
pick 3-5 of your favourite blogs to share and present this award to

I hope you guys enjoy'd that and make sure to check out these amazing blogs!!!

'Ship Ahoy'

2011-12-12T13:52:00.002Z

I have added two of these little handmade origami boxes to my Etsy shop. All the little drawings of ships in bottles, and compasses are originals and even the box has been folded and made by me. Also inside in the boxes I have placed old pieces of map. Each one is unique and one of a kind and would be perfect as a little gift or stocking filler. They cost £6.00 each and you can get an extra 10% off using coupon code at checkout: CHRISTMASALE.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/88491457/handmade-origami-box-ship-ahoy

SALE on Now: 10% Off All Items

2011-12-11T11:56:00.001Z

Many items have been reduced and now you can get an extra 10% off all items in my Etsy shop use coupon code at checkout : CHRISTMASSALE
Make sure to order your items especially within the next week so you get them delivered in time.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/annarack

Mail Art from Saylor Made

2011-12-09T18:52:00.001Z

Another great package came from my friend @Jeannine today. I received an awesome card with an anchor on it and I also got a Christmas card handmade by the lady herself with the kindest words written inside. Next up I got some wicked stickers including some hand made ones which look to good to be used. I am loving the silver shell stickers especially. I see a ship and seashore theme going on here ;) It took a lot for Jeannine to give me the next item as she secretly wanted to keep it....you are so generous. It looks like it is an illustration from Moby Dick, which I have never read and aim to read at some point in the near future. I am one for reading about 4-5 books at a time I like to fleet from one to the other and yes I can pick off from where I read last, I'm weird like that. I mean come on you need to take a break from Lord of the Rings at some points because it is so heavy going (I am reading the first one)....anyhoo the reason for saying this stuff about books is because I now have two new handmade books marks. Like I need another two books to read at the moment ha ha, but these bookmarks need homes. They are little works of art in themselves based on a space theme. I didn't show in the photos but the back of them have a light brown glittery background on them, oh how I love sparkles. Jeannine has been doing some lovely water colours recently and I said how much I loved them, so she printed two of them for me....WIN!!! I do love me dinosaurs and ships. Thank you so much Jeannine :)

Mail Art from Sumi Senthi

2011-12-09T18:22:00.001Z

Received the loveliest package from my friend @Sumi the other day.
I was very much treated :)

I got a typed letter, wax sealed into an envelope (I love these little details, a bit like getting a letter from Hogwarts) and a lovely Christmas Card designed by the lady herself . Next I came across a hand-made envelope full of pretty vintage stamps, buttons and bows. To go with my buttons and bows I also got a selection of beautiful flower fabric, lace and a butterfly transfer. Sumi always makes lovely badges and I received two beautiful vintage styled ones (love the presentation on the tag). Next I got two pieces of paper ephemera with a map of the west country and another with a very interesting illustration on it. I couldn't believe that I got 3D spectacles and a booklet, I have been wanting to buy myself these for ages. And last but least one of the BEST prints ever of a deer, which was drawn and printed by Sumi. Thank you so much for your beautiful package Sumi :)

Single Christmas Cards Available in my Etsy Shop Now

2011-12-06T16:21:00.001Z

I now sell single greetings cards for £2.50.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/annarack

15% OFF SALE in my Shop!!!!!

2011-12-06T12:51:00.001Z

I'm having a sale of 15% of all items in my Etsy shop. Use coupon code: CYBERTUESDAY at checkout :)

Christmas Cards and Stickers

2011-12-04T14:11:00.001Z

My cards and stickers are now available, click here to go to my Etsy shop.

Christmas Cards are £5.50 for a pack of 4

Stickers are £3.50 for a set of 6

30% OFF SALE:

2011-12-03T17:44:00.001Z

MASSIVE SALE in my Etsy Vintage shop 30% OFF use coupon Code: CHRISMASSALEhttp://www.etsy.com/shop/annaslittletreasures?ref=si_shop

Whats on your shelf?

2011-12-01T15:40:00.001Z

I thought I would show my bedroom shelf to you guys. Its full of artwork, postcards, conkers, vintage cups, a polar bear statue and my vanity case which I hold all of my hand embroidery threads in. I wish I had more shelves like this so I could frame all the artwork I have. If you guys have any images of your shelves, show me as I love to have a nosey around.

Pikurpie

2011-11-28T12:55:00.001Z

A couple of weeks ago I bought this wonderful postcard and German Book Poster Stamp from a shop on Etsy called Pikurpie. The Gentleman who runs the shop is such a generous person as he always gives me a little freebie. I received 7 tiny envelopes with a stamp and little description about each one inside. I've never seen stamps presented in this way, I am totally blown away by them. The postcard is based on 'The White Ledges' at Belgrade Lakes in Maine. I thought it was such a different and unique image to have on a postcard and I just had to buy it. It has a wonderful US stamp on the back and beautiful handwriting which I think a lady wrote thanking her friend for some lovely presents she received. I love reading peoples little messages on postcards. The German stamp is the largest I have ever bought at just over 2 inches in height. It is probably from around the 1920's and based on the 'Cat Hoffmann's Strong Poster Stamp BOB Advertising'. If any of you guys love paper goods like this then please visit Pikurpie's Etsy shop and he is very friendly and if you can't find what you want he will search high and low for you and also say Howdy :)

Snuggle Jumpers and more.....

2011-11-27T12:46:00.001Z

Topman Jumper

Charity shop: 100% Cashmere jumper £2.80

Renewal sweater from a vintage shop in Newcastle called 'Best Vintage'

Charity shop: 100% Wool Vintage Jumper £1

Handmade Globe Christmas Decoration from 'RE' in Corbridge.

Tynemouth market: old money note (not sure which country its from) 30p

Tynemouth Market: ship postcard £1 (not sure of the age) and the other three were 3 for a £1 (they are over 100 years old each with beautiful writing and stamps on the back).

Sorry I have not blogged much this week, but I hope you enjoy'd looking at all the things I recently bought.

FANTASTIC MR. FOX - Official Theatrical Trailer

2011-11-20T01:00:00.000Z

Mail Art to Send More Mail

2011-11-18T19:23:00.001Z

Last week I sent the lovely @Sendmoremail ( Jaime Maddalena ) her first mail art package from me. I hand-typed a letter on a paper doily. Lots of vintage goodies were added such as a blank postcard, book pages, buttons, playing cards and cigarette cards. I also sent a postcard of one of my illustrations on it and another with an original drawing on it. I made a little decoupage box using old book pages and added a die-cut butterfly to the lid. I placed many vintage stamps, stickers and my handmade stamp montages inside the box. If you love to collect stamps I recommend you take a look at Jaime's pretty shop over here.

Sailing Home for Christmas

2011-11-17T22:20:00.001Z

Sailing Home for Christmas, a photo by Annarack on Flickr.

This is my second Christmas Card design which you will be able to buy soon.
I have a thing for ships at the moment and thought this would translate very well into a greeting card design. The idea is that the ship is on long journey home, sailing through the clouds in the sky tugging along a large tree in a smaller boat.

Mount Deermore

2011-11-17T21:48:00.001Z

Mount Deermore, a photo by Annarack on Flickr.

This is one of my first Christmas Card designs. I was inspired by the famous Mount Rushmore attraction in North America and changed the heads to those of deer, elk and Moose. I then added fairy light decorations to the antlers and drew droplets and tiny circular shapes to create a delicate garland of hanging decorations.

This illustrations has been made for my greetings cards that will be out soon ;)

Bits and Pieces

2011-11-12T13:57:00.001Z

Yesterday went to town with my mum and I saw these beautiful earrings with pressed f lowers in them. I found them in H&M for the grand total of £1.99. They remind me so much of a ring I had when I was a child and I have no idea where it is now :( I can't wait to start wearing these beauties. I also bought some more knitting patterns from my charity shop for 50p each, kinda hoping my mum will knit one of them for me. And last but least I received a lovely bit of mail in the post from @Harriet Gray. There was a little giveaway on her blog and the first 25 comments good a goodie pack. I was so lucky as I was the last one to comment. Here I got an awesome greetings card with an illustration of what appears to be an egg encompassed in a mass of hair. It seems to represent a nest, but maybe Harriet will tell me more about it ;) I also got two lovely stickers. Loving the bear tattoo on the girls arm. Harriet, your illustrations are so beautifully deatailed and thank you so much :D

The Matchbox Art Show

2011-11-10T13:07:00.000Z

I am submitting this matchbox piece to an exhibition based in Brighton, organised by a company called 'Enter The Clutter' . 50 artists will be taking part to show their miniature matchboxes and you can see all of them from the 26th of November, in the 'Polish and Pin' Gallery. I used a vintage map to wrap around the matchboxes and inside the drawers I put in illustrations of a ship in a glass bottle and a compass. I hand-typed the descriptions using my trusty typewriter. I also put some shiny fabric at the bottom of each drawer to soften the appearance of the drawers background. I am very much into all things to do with ships and the instruments and maps used to navigate with, so this very much inspired my ideas and final outcome.

I am super excited and glad to be part of a wonderful exhibition :D

To find out more information on the exhibition click here.

Christmas Cards Sneak Peek

2011-11-06T16:24:00.000Z

I'm not sure about my designs yet for my Christmas cards. I've got a few ideas running around in my head, but I like the idea of doing stamp illustrations, seeing as I love collecting them. The photos are a bit dark, but you can get the idea of what I am trying to achieve.

Lately.....

2011-11-05T13:40:00.000Z

I bought a few things this week from my charity shop as usual and also received some goodies in the post. Firstly I got this amazing zine from @Luke Waller, he was giving a few away and I was one of the lucky people to get one ;) My favourite illustration has to be the God like, beardy guy holding the pack of cards. Thank you so much Luke you are such a talented guy.

All the way from sunny California via Team Blue Bicycle on Etsy, I bought a miniature Accordion book with some of the most interesting and quirky illustrations throughout. I have bought a few times from this wonderful shop and I always get a little freebie (which you can see below called 'Ones are nervous'). WIN!!!!

The rest of the photos show my charity shop buys. Most of which I found in a house clearance I was involved in. It was quite an experience, though it felt a little bit like I was intruding. The couple who lived here have moved to a retirement home, so sad :(

Everything cost me £3 in total.

Peter Pan postage stamps.

2x Observers books

3x volumes on birds from the 1950's, which have many wonderful Thomas Bewick engravings in them. I was just going to buy these and my colleague had thrown them in the bin. I was like where the hell are my books. I saved them from the bin. I really worry about what gets thrown out in charity shops. It makes me so mad, especially as these books are so beautiful. They think I am mad at the shop buying things like this.

Vintage Die-cuts which I found in a bed drawer.

I bought this lovely thimble from another charity shop for 50p

Flight of the navigator soundtrack- Main Title

2011-11-05T12:03:00.000Z

Buys from the last couple of weeks

2011-10-30T14:40:00.000Z

Cross stitch pattern: Free / Jumper pattern 20p

Faux fur scarf £1 / Woolen hat 80p

Buttons 20p

Rock and Mineral book 20p / Astronomy books £3

Fighting Sail Book £1.50

Dictionary £3.50

Mail art from Anna Gwenllian

2011-10-30T14:07:00.004Z

Look at what the lovely @Anna gave me in the post yesterday. Anna won my last giveaway and wanted to send me a little thank you package, which was so kind of her. I love all the postcards and business cards I got. The vibrancy of the colours are just marvelous and I also love the use of strong line and texture within the illustrations. I also got two little handmade tags, which I just LOVE!!!

Thank you so much Anna, it made my day :)

Mail Art from Jaymie O'Callaghan

2011-10-28T13:49:00.000+01:00

The lovely and very talented Jaymie O'Callaghan sent me the other day so much illustrative goodness. I have been treated :) I got various inspirational pieces of paper ephemera, two original drawings of Jaymie's two favourite people Twiggy and James Dean, a sketch of an elephant and print with the snow queen on it. In a lovely cat card I got more goodies, a lollipop, handmade sunflower hair clips (Jaymie made these), various stickers with a set showing some of her wonderful illustrations and a cute rabbit ring. I also received many of her business cards, which I think are amazing. Thank you so much Jaymie for your very generous package. :D

Commissioned Embroidery

2011-10-25T13:23:00.001+01:00

This is my first ever embroidery commission, so I was a little nervous about it, as I thought it would go all wrong. I am very happy with the way it has turned out and all the colours and textures go really well together. If anyone would like to commission me to do them an embroidery just email me at annajanesearle@hotmail.co.uk.

Top Heavy Mountains

2011-10-18T18:31:00.001+01:00

I hope you guys like my recent drawing. I thought I would do a totally different concept for this one.
To see a larger closeup please visit my flickr page here.

Paper Goodness

2011-10-18T15:36:00.003+01:00

I keep visiting this lovely paper ephemera shop on Etsy called 'Ankira Design', its full to the brim of wonderful illustrations. The lady who owns this little shop is so lovely and always helpful. I have bought three times from her shop and I am always so pleased with what I receive. Shown below are all the items I have bought from Ankira Design. I got a package today so I thought you guys may like to see what I bought.

The next set of photos show what I got in a lucky dip bag

The last three photos show illustrations I have framed. The illustrations are from a book called 'In Shining Armor', part of the 'My Book House Series'. Two of these are from Robin Hood. I am a big Robin Hood Fan.

A Sneak Peek....

2011-10-17T16:22:00.003+01:00

This is part of a new drawing I am in the middle of doing at the moment. I will hopefully finish it by the end of the day....fingers crossed ;) (sorry for the dark photo).

Mail Art from Jessica Gowling

2011-10-17T15:51:00.000+01:00

Yet again another mind-blowing package from the amazing and talented @Jessica Gowling. When I came down the stairs I ran over to the door to find a most interesting package made out of an old book cover. What a brilliant idea, I love the sticky tape around it too. I got some awesome Harry Potter stickers as Jessica knows I am a big fan of Harry Potter. I also received a lovely letter with one of her prints on the front, lots of paper ephemera (flash cards, notecard, embroidery pattern and craft paper). I see a little nautical theme going on with the paper ephemera....Always a win with me!!! I can't believe I got one of Jessica's owl prints, I am honored, its a stunner. Also you will see aYellow Headed Blackbird printed on three pieces of fabric, this is a collaboration Jessica has set up between us, so watch this space to see what I add to this wonderful project ;)

EPIC Goodness

2011-10-15T18:02:00.000+01:00

I went to Tynemouth market today, as well as making a trip to Carlisle yesterday and so bought a few things on my adventures :) Who could resist these goodies. Also bought a couple of things at my charity shop as normal. I was out for bargains again and I especially wanted to get more old books so I could make more dioramas from. So watch this space.

Enjoy ;)

Vintage Buttons £1

Canadian Scarf 50p

Vintage Necklace £2 (has no fastener you just move the piece up and down to the required length)

3x thimbles at 50p each

various old books ranging from 50p to £2 each

3x vintage USA Postcards £4

and 3x double-sided sheets of vintage stamps £3

Mail Art from Katie Whittington

2011-10-11T11:15:00.000+01:00

The lovely and very generous @Aspetalsfall (Katie Whittington) sent me an awesome package last week. Katie always sends such pretty things to me. I love the blouse image and flowery tape on the package. I wish I could have a blouse like this one day. Anyhooo back to the goodies.......

I got a lovely letter inside this really cool cityscape envelope.

A vintage postcard and Embroidery instructions on how to make a flower garland.

A piece of fabric and a screen printed piece made by the lady herself.

Trimmings, with some being from the 1980's

Two lovely vintage pieces of crochet, buttons and a printed cabochon.

and these awesome vintage earrings, which have lovely silver shells on them.

Thank you so much Katie :D