Randi's Review	Sarah' Review	Rachel's Review	Cathy's Review	Kathleen's Review

Review by Randi

I had never done quilling before, so these kits were just the thing for this beginner. I received the Quill-a-Quote it. It came packaged with six project instructions, cards and paper. There is also a second kit available.

The first project I made was the card with the quote, "Say what's in your heart. Someone needs to hear it."

To customize this and make it "mine" I further embellished the plain white card by stipple brushing silver metallic ink lightly all over the card. I then cut the card down a bit and outlined it with a Krylon Silver Metallic Leafing Pen. After matting it on red cardstock I added Magic Mesh and Dottie Ann in the lower left corner, and a silver mini brad and photo anchor. The quilled heart is featured on top of the Dottie Ann. To the right of this little collage is a jelly label that reads, "All Yours."



Supplies:
Quill-A-Quote card and heart, Lake City Craft Co.
Red cardstock
Black 12 x 12 Magic Mesh
Silver Dottie Ann, Magic Mesh Company
Photo Anchor, Making Memories
Silver Mini Brad, JoAnn Scrap Essentials
Jelly Label, Making Memories
Silver Metallic Leafing Pen, Krylon
Pearl Ex Metallic Silver Ink Pad, Jacquard

I chose to make the little music notes from the kit also. The saying that went with them didn't go with my photos however.. "Music is the wine that fills the cup of silence" (These kids are NEVER silent!) I chose instead to use the notes on a vellum quote that was double matted. They made a nice accent for my theme.



Supplies:
Music Paper, Hot Off the Press
Beige/Leaf paper, Provocraft
Piano Key stickers, Mrs. Grossman
Scripture Vellum Quote, Diecuts With a View
Quilled Notes, Lake City Craft Co. Slide Mounts, Loersch
Stone Sentiment, EK Success
Mirror Tiles, Darice
"happy" Metal Art, K & CO
Eyelet Quote, Making Memories
Photo Anchors, Making Memories
Black Mini Brads, JoAnn Scrap Essentials
Rub-on Minis, Making Memories


The final project I did using my kit is another card. On this there are two little bluebirds and the quote reads, "I see skies of blue, clouds of white. And I think to myself what a wonderful world...."

The outsides of the cards in this kit are slightly embossed around the edges. Using the inside of this embossed square as the guideline, it was chalked with Craf-T's Glimmer Chalks and then their Enhancer was also used. This gave a dreamy sky blue feeling that went well with the quote. I added a tree and cloud stickers and the scene was complete. The card was then mounted on blue cardstock.

Quilling by guest artist Ruth Lanz



Supplies:
Quill-a-Quote Kit, Lake City Craft Company
Blue Cardstock
Glimmer Chalk, Craf-T
Chalk Enhancer, Craf-T
Tree stickers, Not So Cute Stickers
Cloud sticker, Suzy Zoo

I would recommend these kits for those with no quilling experience or those who would like the easy beginnings to a card project that you can customize in endless ways.

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Review by Sarah

Lake City Craft Company Quilling Kit: a good idea that needs development.

Quilling Kits are advertised as, "A Quick & Easy Kit" "Perfect for beginners and kids from 8 to 80." They include precut 1/8" strips of paper for quilling, cards printed with short quotes, and instructions.

I was interested to find out what this product had to offer. I have dabbled in quilling a small amount before, so a kit that would help me do a "real quilling project" would surely help, right?

I used the "Simple Treasures" Kit 1 #208. The packaging pictures are of very small, very simple projects. My first impression was surprise at the sparse design of the projects, but I was interested to see more close-up pictures and detailed instructions that would do justice to the detail of quilled projects.

Sadly, there was no other picture. The instructions are photocopy quality, typewritten directions, with very basic line drawings as illustration. One of the projects’ directions had no illustration at all, and it took me careful reading on at least three different occasions, to figure out what was intended. Unfortunately, this project, ("I Do," at bottom left in the photo) is of white quilling on white paper, and is extremely hard to see on the tiny picture provided on the packaging. I opted to actually try making two other projects from the kit, "Tree of Love" and "Count Your Blessings" (pictured at upper left and lower right).

As I got started with my projects, I found that there is a very nice paper titled, "Basic Quilling Instructions" included with the directions. This gives a general introduction to terms and techniques used in paper filigree (quilling). However - nice as it is - not all terms used in the project directions are included in this intro page.

I also found that my kit was not complete in the materials needed for making paper filigree. I needed quilling tools, which were not included in the kit, and nowhere on the packaging does it call for additional tools. This could be very frustrating to a beginner who has no prior knowledge of paper filigree. The instructions also recommended using a quilling board, used for positioning and gluing rolls of quilled paper together. I made one with cardboard, wax paper and pins as specified in the instructions. All of this made for a very slow start to the projects in defiance to the advertised "Quick & Easy Kit."

Quilling board made from cardboard and wax paper, as per instructions included in the general quilling sheet, "Basic Quilling Instructions."

First, I made the "Count Your Blessings" project from "Simple Treasures" Kit 1 # 208. Overall, I was disappointed with the quality of printing on the cards provided for projects. The designs offered are also very basic – if you want a designer look, you will need to provide a little TLC.

I had a really hard time with the directions on this project, as I was provided with a tiny photo and simple line drawings, along with directions that called for “teardrop” shaped pieces. The sheet, “Basic Quilling Instructions” told me how to make teardrops, however they did not work to make a very pretty flower. I had to make something more like a “bunny ear” shape. This shape looks better on the finished product, and also looks closer to what is depicted in the instructions and cover picture.

"Count Your Blessings" completed as suggested by kit.

"Count Your Blessings" embellished and made into a card. I used pearlescent paint over the printing to distract from its grainy appearance.

Supplies used:
Lake City Craft Company (Quilling Kit: "Simple Treasures" Kit 1 #208)
Jacquard (Lumiere Paint: Pearl White)
Jacquard (Lumiere Paint: Pearl Violet)
Craf-T (Metallic Rub-Ons: Golden White)
Jo-Ann Scrap Essentials (white brads)
Purple cardstock
Loew Cornell (paintbrush)
Adhesive Tech (Glue Runner)

I also found the pattern for "Tree of Love" to be frustrating, as it is too big to fit on the card provided for the project. The instructions called for a 2 ¼” tree trunk, while the pattern shows 2” only. I found that on a project this detailed, a quarter inch does make quite a difference. Also, the instructions called for “approximately 35” hearts. The pattern shows placement of 7. Careful study of the small cover picture shows that 24 were used. The instructions on this project say, “Place [the hearts] on the tree as shown in the pattern or as you desire.” I ended up using 16, but it was aggravating to have a pattern that told me to freelance it, while providing only an extremely small photo from which to get my ideas.

"Tree of Love" finished as suggested by the kit.

"Tree of Love" after embellishment and placement on layout.

Supplies used:
"Tree of Love" Supplies:
Lake City Craft Company Quilling Kit (Simple Treasures, Kit 1 #208)
Craf-T Decorating Chalks (Brick, Dk Brown)
Craf-T Glimmer Chalks (Lilac, Blue Sparkle)
Craf-T E-Z Chalk Enhancer
Craf-T Metallic Rub-Ons (Russet, Nubian)
Lake City Craft Company (White Craft Glue)
Ranger (Holographic Embossing Powder)
Red coarse glitter
Pewter spiral clip
¼” red ribbon
Jo-Ann Scrap Essentials gem
Ranger (Tim Holtz: Distress Inks: Vintage Photo)
Memories (Dye Ink Pad Black)
Layout Supplies:
Die Cuts With a View (Stack III Rose Paper)
Provo Craft (music paper)
Bazzil (Monochromatic Trio: Sienna)
VersaMark
Ranger (Tim Holtz Distress Ink: Antique Linen)
Memories (Dye Ink Pad Black)
Ranger (Holographic Embossing Powder)
Close To My Heart (My Acrylix: Believe lowercase)
Close To My Heart (My Acrylix: Sans Small uppercase)
PM Designs (Scrapper’s Block)
Tulle (from wedding rice bag craft kit)
Jo-Ann Scrap Essentials (gems)
Jo-Ann Scrap Essentials (brads)
Jo-Ann Scrap Essentials (book plates)
Pewter spiral clip
Making Memories (black photo tabs)
Magic Mesh (Fine Weave 12” x 12” Black)
Ranger (Glossy Accents)
Adhesive Tech (Glue Runner)

Overall, I found this product frustrating because of errors in instruction details. With more accurate, thorough instructions written as if to someone with no prior quilling experience; packaging that specifies tools required to complete the kit; and more easily viewed pictures of example projects, Lake City Craft Company’s Quilling Kits could go far.

In Summary: this kit advertises being for beginners, yet does not specify tools needed, has incorrect instructions, and project examples are exceedingly difficult to see. Kit designs are not trendy or artistic for the modern scrapbook page. I am sorry that I cannot recommend this product, because it was a good idea.

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Review by Rachel

One of the techniques that I had always wanted to learn was quilling. I had done some small projects with quilling just to break in a gift I received but hadn’t done anything with it since. So I was excited and quite nervous to see the items that Lake City Craft Company had sent to us. We received two quilling kits, a tool kit, a package of Watercolor quilling paper, and a bottle of White Craft glue. The two quilling kits that I received were the Simple Treasures Kit and a Quill-A-Quote kit.

I was really nervous about starting this project because working with small pieces of paper can sometimes drive me nuts. But I sat down and read through the directions in each kit and then just started.

The quilling kits are just as it says on the package "Perfect for Beginners." The Simple Treasures kit came with 5 printed cards, 4 patterns with instructions, and the kit provides all the quilling paper you will need to complete this kit. The Quill-A-Quote kit comes with 6 quote cards, instructions, and all the paper needed to finish the quotes. These kits provide everything needed for an individual just learning to quill. The instructions help you to learn the different shapes involved in quilling. The instructions included in each kit are very detailed and provide step-by-step instructions. The kits just weren’t for me. I wanted a little bit more creative control than what the kits afforded. I used two of the printed cards from the Simple Treasures kit. I used one to make a card and another to make a layout. The card came together within about 20 minutes. I did vary from the pattern slightly. I tend to be one of those people who need to go outside of the lines sometimes. This kit would allow you to do 5 cards in about an hour or so. This would depend on how creative you wanted to get with the patterns.

Products used:
Thread: Simple Treasures kit – Lake City Craft Co.
Quote: Simple Treasures kit – Lake City Craft Co.
Cardstock: Bazzill – Black
Ink Pad: Excelsior – Red
Marker: Galaxy – Mercury Silver

The second printed card I used on a layout of my family. I thought it was the perfect saying to highlight our family trip to the Zoo during the 4th of July holiday. At that time, we rarely had family time with my husband working two jobs so the holiday was really special for us and we had so much fun. It was very hot that day and the most precious commodity was the zoo cup filled with ice water! The printed card helped this layout to come together in about 30 minutes. It was fast and easy! I recommend the kits to the scrapbooker who is looking to learn a new technique and is a beginner at quilling. They are truly “perfect for beginners.”

Products used:
Quote: Simple Treasures Kit – Lake City Craft Co.
Cardstock: Bazzill – Red
Cardstock: Making Memories – White
Ink Pad: Close To My Heart – Sunflower
Sticker Letters: Black- Stickopatumus Brush Letters
Rub-ons: Black - Timeless Elements

In conclusion, I highly recommend the kits for beginners. The kits will help you learn the individual shapes and teach you how to form each piece.

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Review by Cathy

The Quilling Kits feature the art of paper filigree (quilling) and include six white notecards with quotes, instructions for use and paper for quilling. There were a total of 12 projects in the two kits. I will be completely honest and admit, I was scared to death of quilling. I want to assure you that it is easy to learn, not difficult in any way, and fun. My 12 year old daughter sat down with me and happily learned how to quill with both the Tapered Tip Needle and the Slotted Tool in less than 5 minutes.

The quilling kits will teach you how to make musical notes, birds, a heart, a mouse, cheese slice, grapes, daisies and more. There are also directions for all of the basic quilled patterns including: heart, V scroll, C scroll, S scroll and variations of the basic circle scroll that is manipulated into a teardrop, marquise, square or bunny ear. The instructions and kit also include a pattern to make daisies and a red ribbon bow with wedding bells.

My first example is a card with the cute daisies. The instructions are well written with clear illustrations. The middle of the daisy is a tightly rolled scroll. The size of the circle is determined by two factors: length of paper strip and tightness of the roll. The instructions always include the exact measured length. The flower petals are made by layering strips of paper that are rounded on the ends. I decorated th edges of the note card with chalk, stamped the card with a Stampin Up Stamp and mounted it on Doodlebug paper to make a pretty card.

The next example is a scrapbook layout of a wedding. The quilled "Bluebirds of Happiness" and a "Red Quilled Heart" decorate the note card with a quote from a song, "What a Wonderful World." I also free-handed some S scrolls and some loosely quilled roses. The note card is a flip up attached with two paper strips and two heart brads.

This is a fun tag made with Quill-a-Quote Kit #1. The little musical notes are from the kit. The tag is hand made from Doodlebug paper and the Heart squares are from EK Sucess-Rebecca Sower (Music from the Heart).

The next layout, "On With The Dance" is made with the note card from Quill-A-Quote Kit #2. These roses were quilled using paper from the Lake City Craft Company - Quilling Paper Packet. The paper strips feature a watercolor effect going from white on the ends gradually becoming a deep color in the middle. I used double strips to make the roses.

This is a note card with a free handed butterfly made primarily with teardrop shaped rolls and an S Scroll with a teardrop roll in the corner. The paper used for the butterfly and the scroll is from the paper strip packet.

The Mother’s Day card below has more quilled flowers and a butterfly, made with the quilling paper strips. This was a fun card to do.

The next two examples are Easter Tag Cards. The quilling is free-handed and adds dimension and interest to the cards. I used a combination of paper from the quilling paper packet and carstock (cut with a paper trimmer).

The last example was done by my twelve-year-old-daughter, Becky.

In summary, the Lake City Craft Company has a great idea with the easy starter note card kits. The quilling can be learned easily and the cards look great decorated as the company suggests. The greatest thing to me, though, is that the cards allow plenty of room for individual design. The instruction packets contain enough information to free-hand your own creations. I can promise you that quilling is fun, easy and addictive. * Note to the company or store owners--Please consider a make-and-take at your conventions. I loved the quilling and will continue to use my tools but it initially intimidated me.

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Review by Kathleen

I received two quilling kits from Lake City Craft Company. The first kit, Quill-A-Quote Kit #2, contained six quote cards, instructions, and all the paper needed for completing the projects as directed. The second kit, Simple Treasures Kit 1 #208, contained five printed cards, instructions for four patterns, and all the paper needed for completing the projects as directed.

My initial thought when I looked at these kits was what was I going to do with them? How was I going to integrate them into my scrapbooking? Of course, I had a momentary lapse in my brain and forgot how much I enjoy making cards. So I decided to approach the project with my card maker hat on.

Starting with the Quill-A-Quote kit, I chose my first project. This project was three quilled daisies, two with missing petals to go with the "loves me, loves me not" saying on the bottom of the card. Now anyone who knows me knows that I am not very good at following directions. I tend to go off in my own direction and make things my own. While the instructions in this kit are great, I am a firm believer that most people would not create the project exactly as shown. But that is the beauty of a kit. You can make it your own. If you wanted something made the same way each time, you would buy it pre-made.

Making the daisy card was very simple. The quote on this card is "Loves me. Loves me not. Loves me." I first quilled the petals and centers. Then I made the petals into teardrop shapes and glued them to the card with my white craft glue. I then chose to change the stems and leaves and make them a little different than instructed. After my flowers were complete and glued down, I went around the edges of the cards with Craf-T Metallic Rub-Ons and used their Decorating Chalk to highlight the word "loves".

‘Daisies card’
Products used:
Lake City Craft Co. – Quill-A-Quote kit # 2, 3/16” Slotted Tool, White Craft Glue
Craf-T – metallic rub-ons kits #2 & 3, decorating chalk (pink)

The second card is a Christmas themed card. The quote for this project is "not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse." This project required a larger quilled roll for the body of the mouse. I remember thinking how cool it was that the mouse was made up of mostly teardrop shapes of varying sizes. There is a piece of cheese for the mouse and a sprig of holly to give it the Christmas touch. I also used Metallic Rub-Ons on the edges and used fluid chalk ink to frame the card as well.

‘Mouse card’
Products used:
Lake City Craft Co. – Quill-A-Quote kit # 2, 3/16” Slotted Tool, White Craft Glue
Craf-T – Metallic Rub-Ons kits #2
Color Box – Fluid Chalk Ink

The third project from this kit uses a quote from Ben Franklin: "Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried , with fewer tensions, and more tolerance." The original instructions called for smaller grapes and to layer the rolls for a deeper grape bunch. I decided to make two bunches of grapes though so it would be less bulky when mailing. I also used a scrap of cardstock to make the quilled leaves and stamped some of the leaves too. The tendrils are made from the brown quilling paper provided. I then used Metallic Rub-Ons to decorate the rest of the card front.

‘Grapes card’
Products used:
Lake City Craft Co. – Quill-A-Quote kit # 2, 3/16” Slotted Tool, White Craft Glue
Craf-T – metallic rub-ons kits #3
Bazzill Basics – textured cardstock “Fern”
Dream Impressions – Brushstroke Fruit rubber stamps
Color Box – Fluid chalk inks

There are three more projects in this kit ranging from joyous, to sincere, and finally, whimsical. o:

The second kit, Simple Treasures, is a wedding themed kit. The kit contains five printed note cards with instructions for four designs. I chose two of the projects from this kit and also decided to make them into cards. However , these quotes would be well suited for wedding albums.

The first project is a simple, single flower. The instructions called for a six petal teardrop flower, but I chose to elaborate a bit more and use some of the Watercolors 1/8" quilling papers that I had received to add more petals. The quote on this card is "Count among your blessings the quiet beauty of a single flower." This project would also be perfect for layouts with your children in the garden or even pictures of Spring blooms. I finished this card with inks and Decorating Chalk.

‘Blessings card’
Products used:
Lake City Craft Co. – Simple Treasures kit 1 #208, 3/16” Slotted Tool, White Craft Glue
Craf-T – decorating chalk (purple)
Color Box – Fluid chalk inks

The second project has the quote "Come with me, my love; to the tree, the tree of Love." In all honesty, the project called for three simple hearts on the bottom of the card to coordinate with another of the projects, but in my hurried life I read the instructions for a different project a received the following results!

‘Hearts card’
Products used:
Lake City Craft Co. - Simple Treasures kit 1 #208, 3/16" Slotted Tool, White Craft Glue
Craf-T - decorating chalk (pinks), metallic rub ons kit #2
Color Box - Fluid chalk inks
Bazzill Basics - pink textured cardstock

On this card I ended up using the gold thread for a different project and since I had trouble stringing the hearts, I glued them with my White Craft Glue on either side of the thread. Once I discovered my faux pas, I decided to continue on with the card and added a flower to the lower right corner. I also embellished the card with Decorating Chalks in different shades of pinks and used gold Metallic Rub-Ons to enhance the flower. I then inked the edges of the card.

In summation, these kits are really quite cute. I wasn’t too sure about them when I received them, but once I let myself think outside the bounds of the printed instructions, I was able to make each project my own. And this is essentially what scrapbooking and paper crafting is all about, taking basic supplies and creating art that is your own. I think you will enjoy these kits. The supplies are all there for you and you can follow the instructions verbatim or go off on a tangent. The choice is yours.

For more information, visit Lake City Craft Company

Contact info:
1209 Eaglecrest Street
P.O. Box 2009
Nixa, Missouri 65714
Ph. 417-725-8444
Fa. 417-725-8448