Claire's Collectibles features local artists who have accomplished something fun, intriguing, amazing or unique.  Our current featured artist is: 

Susan Bannon

My name is Susan Bannon.  I have been 'doing' crafts for at least the last 30+ years.  I've been stamping for a long time, but not really pleased with the results.  Six years ago I took several classes with Janelle Marshall (from PK Glitz) and learned about the different types of inks, papers, stamps, composition of projects, and embellishing.  I knew some of this, but now I had a better understanding of the craft.  Now I teach classes in my home on Paper Crafts and Stamping.  Our class rules are:  Have Fun, K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple Sweetie), there are no mistakes, only new opportunities to create, and be resourceful (don't throw anything away, you may find a use for it.)  I teach different techniques, folds, use of embellishments, how to use the Cuttlebug and Sizzix machines, and basically how to create and be comfortable in your own style of creating.  One size (style) does not fit all.

Some of my examples I am sharing with you are recycled TPC tickets I made into a "Thank You" card, last year's Christmas cards I received and die cut and Cuttlebug embossed for this year's cards to send out, some favorite folds for cards, and just some "fun and quick" cards.

I read and absorb stamping magazines; Scrap and Stamp, and Take Ten, are my favorites.  I am all the time learning new ways to use the abundant supply of "stuff" that I am blessed to own.  I sometimes edit the directions to keep the process simple and easy to learn and then teach.  If you are frustrated with the process or can't figure out the directions, it isn't fun and then you don't do it.  (Remember the rules.)

I aspire to inspire others to use their talents, create, give and share, and have fun.  I am blessed to have like-minded, wonderful, and talented friends who encourage, support, and come and play.  It's a God "thang."