Australian Magazine Reviews

Australian Cardmaking: Stamping & Papercraft is one of my Must Have magazines. Why? There is always a broad spectrum of interesting techniques and ideas in each issue, and their photography and easy to follow instructions -- which are there for every project shown - are very well done and evident throughout each publication. I know some crafters are concerned that magazines from other countries will feature products not carried here, and while that happens, it is rare comparatively speaking to the content of each issue as a whole. And, often, it's not critical to the success of the technique and an easy substitution. Most vendors are international these days, so don't let that stop you from finding a veritable treasure trove of ideas in these hard to find publications. Just make sure you leave me a copy!

In this month's issue, you can find cardmaking on a budget ideas, how to make the most of your leftover embellishments, artist trading card ideas, big and bold card patterns (love the polka dots hearts!) there are even cards made using chenille fabric! Trust me, these are not your grandmother's bedspreads, either! Cute, bright, bold...fun! There is a stampers challenge section, which shows how the same stamp can be used on a variety of different cards. And even a "cards for boys" section - and we all know how challenging those can be - along with a 10 Quick Card article. As I said, their quick and easy instructions make all the cards and projects shown easily accessible to cardmakers and scrappers of every skill level. Give it a try! (And scout around the shop, there might still be some back issues available!)

Creative Paper magazine: Creative Paper is another favorite of mine, also an Australian publication. It crosses a broad spectrum of paper crafting, from scrapbooking pages to cards, gift projects to home decor. All with the same wonderful, rich photography and layout design, as well as easy to follow instructions for everything shown. In the current issue, you'll find ideas for "all about me" scrapbook pages, an adorable tin & card gift idea, fun bird houses (yay! I love birdhouses!) and some wonderfully unique ways to preserve childhood memories, along with Kids Corner ideas as well, for those of you who share your addiction--er, hobby - with your children. And that's barely scratching the surface. Always very creative, always unique, and a different look than what you might find in American publications. (Leave it to those crazy Aussies!)
Review by Donna Kauffman