Playing around with Crafty What Nots

We're back, relaxed and refreshed from a week in sunny Kos and not looking forward to work in the morning!

Luckily, I had something lovely to look forward to, as I received an exciting package from Jennysis Crafts. Jenny very kindly sent a number of us crafty bloggers a 'Crafty What Nots' box to review in anticipation of her fantastic new venture - a craft box subscription service.

The box actually arrived in the post the day before I went on holiday, but I knew I didn't have enough time to start, so, tempted though I was to have a sneaky peek, I left it waiting for me to come back!

I was really excited to open up the box as I had no idea what would be inside, the only clue I had was it's name 'Floral Pavilion'.

After carefully opening the tissue paper and removing the contents of various little personalised envelopes, this is what I found. For a slim box, there's a lot in there!

I thought it would be fun to make a little stop-motion video of me opening the box.

Tucked in a little envelope were the instructions for making a paper handbag, so eager to get going, I made a start.

The instructions have photos too and are very simple to understand. First step - making a net to fold the handbag.

It was easy to fold and assemble after scoring the lines.

 Here's what it looked like before the flap and handle was added.

I added a ribbon from my stash and decorated it with the cut out flowers and buttons provided.

I'm pleased with the final result and it's now sitting pride of place in my craft corner!

After making the handbag, I had a little play with the other bits and bobs included in the box. I love the stamp!

If you would like to get your mitts on a box similar to this, take a look at Jenny's blog post about Crafty What Nots and buy one for £12.50 plus P&P. She also offers a three or six month subscription for a discounted rate. I was very happy with the contents of my box; the packaging, extra little touches and obvious care which has gone into putting these packs together makes it well worth it!

I'll leave you with some of my holiday snaps!

I didn't notice the bee in this one until looking at the photo now!

The best part of the holiday was learning to sail - so much fun!

I'm sharing this post on the following blogs:  Handmade Harbour, Manon Popje's Illustrations and Be Different Act Normal.