Live Love Stamp

Santa's Pants~~!

2011-11-28T20:10:00.000-08:00

So, your son comes to you at 8 pm....."mom, tomorrow I need to bring a card or something for my Secret Santa teacher for student council.......can you make a card with Santa or something on it?"

So what is one to do but jump on SCS for inspiration, and I was NOT disappointed with all the ideas! I got this little number from HERE! I just made a few changes to the buckle and voila! I used the directions from the blog I linked you to above and they were VERY easy to follow!

Needless to say my son was uber impressed and I think the teacher will like it too!

Mission accomplished.

100 years later.....

2011-11-21T09:52:00.000-08:00

....she posts again.....sheesh! Crazy-ness!

I know it's been a very long time since I posted.....such is life I guess!

I cased this from a blog just this morning, and now naturally someone has closed all my "windows" and I cannot seem to locate the author. I will keep looking and add when I find you!

I started with Espresso CS, the DSP is Old Olive and the SS is Bitty Bouquets (ret.). I simply used my SU markers to give it some life!

It's Mail-A-Card-Monday! Get to it! This one is going out today!

~~Blessings~~
Shelli

List Pads~~

2011-11-04T07:29:00.000-07:00

I have made these before, but have you? They are cute and inexpensive to make!

First buy 5x7 steno pads. Big stores like Costco sell them cheapest in yellow, and office supply stores sell them in the white like I found here. White costs more but is easier to work with when it comes to colors. Your office supply store will cut them in half for you for very little (around 1-2$ per stack) Call around in your area for the best prices on cutting.

The CS you use behind the pad will be 9.5 inches by 1/4 inch wider than your pad. I have had the size of the pad vary after cutting based on how careful the person is, so measure the pad and add 1/4 inch. The score on the longest part at 1inch and 1 1/4 inch for the piece that comes up and over the top. You will use Sticky Tape to adhere the pad to the cs. Place one piece on the top of the list pad and three on the back. A trick I learned is to remove the film on the sticky tape piece on the front first, then adhere that before you remove the pieces on the back. Sticky Tape is very unforgiving remember. Then just decorate in whatever theme you like and place two strips of magnet on the back for hanging on the fridge! Ta-Da!

If you're confused, come to club this month. I just decided we will be making them!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Post It Pads~~

2011-10-31T08:46:00.000-07:00

Here's some more cuteness from the craft thingy I am doing this month!

These post it pads are made from the 4x4 coasters. I covered them with DSP and my 3M gun. Then I slightly sanded the edges, used my Bind It All to link the two pieces and then decorated!

Inside is a standard sized post it pad, but I split them in two halves. Meaning I separated one pad into two equal pads. You need to cover all four sides of the coasters with DSP so that they are pretty when you open them too. (which would have made a good photo......)

They are great little gifts for teachers and co-corkers a like!

Hugs!~~~

~~Blessings~~
Shelli

Candle-O-Joy~~

2011-10-30T06:22:00.000-07:00

I told you I was no good at post titles!

So as I mentioned I am doing a craft fair in my town. It's a sweet friend of mine who has different vendors from home based companies and their own businesses come out to her HOUSE (brave girl) and sell our wares! I am making a few handfuls of items to take over there in a couple weeks.

I like making these decorated candles. They are easy and so cute! I package them up in a clear cello-bag and tie it up with a cute little tag for gift giving.

I seem to remember these doing well. Anyway, the DSP is from last year's SU Christmas collection. The Snowman is from Very Merry and the other circle stamp is from Perfect Punches. Be sure to use Sticky Strip tape (super strong) on the edges of the CS to hold it together!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

You Bring Joy~~

2011-10-29T01:01:00.000-07:00

Card #3 from the church event. In keeping with the CAS theme, I used some DSP I had on hand from my LCS. I chose the colors from there for the rest of the card. They ended up being Bashful Blue, Certainly Celery and Peach Parfait. The greeting is from my $1 bin dig a few weeks ago! The buttons are SU's Sizzix die that makes 4 cute little buttons. I simply tied embroidery floss through them and added Dimensionals behind. Ta-da!

Proof that encouragement doesn't have to be fancy! Just mail that card, I dare ya!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Just a "note"~~

2011-10-28T01:01:00.000-07:00

See what I did right there? My son says that all the time when he does a play on words, goofy kid!

This is card number two from the event at church. Very simple, but cute nonetheless. The stamps you see inside the oval are two separate ones from the same set. I simply placed them close enough so they would fit inside the punch. Then I used Dimensionals to pop it up a little. Add a tiny red rhinestone and you're all set! Not much else to say about this one...........

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Simple beauty~~

2011-10-27T01:01:00.000-07:00

I hosted a card making event at church this past weekend. I had the wonderful help of two good friends and it was fun!

I wanted to share with the ladies about encouraging others. So often we get junk mail and bills, and nothing else in our mailboxes. I bet your in box isn't much different.

My goal for this workshop was to spur the ladies who came to encourage others with the written word. What a better way to do that than with a home-made card in the mail! I got to share about two things I am passionate about; encouragement and card making! A nice blend to say the least!

I was going for simple with the cards we made since I didn't think that most of the ladies who came would have card making experience, so what you will see is simplicity.

This DSP is left over from Sale-A-Bration several years back. It is Sahara Sand. I think its gorgeous paired with a little black don't you? I used the new Sizzix frames for the oval shape, which is perfect ith the oval punch for the scripture you see! I just love how SU pairs their products like the frames and the punches, for a big and easy WOW! The little flower adds just the right pop with the rhinestone in the center.

I hope you are blessing someone today with a little love in the mail box! Remember, a hand made card is a hug with a fold in the middle!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Choo-Choo!~~

2011-10-26T08:30:00.000-07:00

My Grandson loves trains! I mean like a lot! It took one trip into his great grandpa's train room (to use the term room lightly) and he was hooked! He is just 19 months and the boy is obsessed! While this train stamp set is retired, and not very toddler-ish, he loved it anyway! I started with Going Grey CS. I used my note book edge punch on Real Red, and Grey ink for the train and greeting (that alphabet is also retired...sorry!). I colored in the yellow in the windows with a marker for some interest and, ta-da!

I kept the inside simple but fun! Another retired SS called Letterpress (I will never get rid of either of those alphabets!) and a heart punch!

The finished size is 5.5 by 3.5. Sometimes it's nice to have less space to fill.

I have started work on some items for a craft sale I am doing soon, come back to see photos of those!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

More fall fun~~

2011-10-20T01:01:00.000-07:00

This image is from the same set that I showed you yesterday. I stamped this one on the white cs with Olive ink. Then I re-stamped it onto Pumpkin Pie cs, cut out the pumpkins and adhered them right over themselves on the white cs!

The greeting is also from the set. I used Chocolate Chip ink directly on the DSP. I matted those two pieces onto Chocolate Chip cs. The eyelets below it have been in my stash forever, as has the ribbon!

I hope you're enjoying the fall cards! Come back tomorrow for some items I am working on for a craft event I am doing next month!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Nothing says fall like....

2011-10-19T06:31:00.000-07:00

Pumpkins of course! I was at my LCS and this stamp set caught my eye. It has some nice fall-ish images. The pumpkin and leaves is one image.

I simply colored the pumpkin and flowers in with my markers. It''s a little challenging to see, but there are Old Olive SU brads in the flower enters.

I haven't done torn paper in a little while, and it seemed fitting here! The fun ribbon is nothing special but it matches so nicely here.

As fall sets in with cooler temps, it becomes soup and stampin' weather! Less time outside, more time in! Soup in the crock pot leaves more time to stamp!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Film Frankie~~

2011-10-17T01:01:00.000-07:00

I love this one! Isn't it great! (she says patting her own back). I was talking to my daughter and she said "Mom, you don't send halloween cards...." and I said "I'm not, he's from a movie, they are movie cards!" (sarcastically) and the idea was born to make a movie strip of Frankie!

I suppose I should have made the notches on the black cs on both sides, but I didn't really think of that until it was completed. I used my markers in a continuous striping motion to get even color. If you double back with markers, you get dark areas and uneven color. The "hello" is also from the $1 bin. I'm telling you, you need to stalk those craft store bins. I have a wonderful collection of words from the $1 bin, but I have been collecting them for a couple years. Just grab a couple when you go. They replenish every couple weeks!

Well, hats off to you. Hug your kids, love your hubby, mail a card to a friend, and be thankful for what you have!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Frankie~~~

2011-10-16T06:42:00.000-07:00

When I saw this little guy lying in the bin at the store, I had the idea here. I stamped him in blank ink onto Wasabi cs. Then cut him out! I ended up going over the black areas in his hair, pants and shoes with my marker to make it a crisper black. I thought he needed a touch of color so I clipped a tiny piece of Pumpkin Pie cs and added it over the "patch" in his pants. The scallop circle is Wisteria Wonder. Finally I added those boogley eyes again! They are available in so many sizes. I recommend you get lots to have on hand. I have added them to all kinds of things!

One more for tomorrow, that happens to be my favorite, sort of. They are all so cute! See ya tomorrow!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Monster Mash~~

2011-10-15T15:21:00.000-07:00

I could NOT resist this cute little guy at my LCS this week! I don't really do halloween, but these lil' monsters remind me of that old Monster Mash song? Do you know it? He was $1! So he came home with me~~

I kept these very simple. Here I added some Wisteria Wonder ink to the base with an old retired stamp called Weathered. I chose Lucky Limeade for Frankie.....!

And here I added some "boogley eyes" for additional interest!

Isn't he cute!!!!

I have two more to show you with Frankie! Come back soon----

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

From Club~~~

2011-10-09T07:01:00.000-07:00

Hello again! It's been a busy time. First, we have been short handed at work, so my 30 hours weekly has been anything BUT 30 hours for a few months actually. It was just recently complicated further by a co-worker moving out of state. It takes FOREVER to hire someone so.......I have been working 35-40 hours for quite some time!

The granbaby (and his parents!) came for a week long visit and it was TERRIFIC! And as you know, granbaby time trumps stamping time all the time!

So here is a card that we made at club in September! I think it is the last unpublished photo I have so I better get crackin!

The layout if FLT93 over on the CAS blog. I started with Espresso CS and moved on to Poppy Parade and Pear Pizazz. I used the French Foliage SS, a favorite for fall! The third ink color you see there is More Mustard. The greeting is from Just Believe!

I will leave you with a shot of myself with two of my gorgeous daughters........we had some girl time out! I am a blessed mama!

We went out for dessert at The Texas Road house! Thanks for the fun times girls!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Sunshine~~

2011-09-19T01:01:00.000-07:00

"Sunshine, on my shoulder, makes me happy!" Remember that oldie but goodie! Something about this Sunflower stamp makes me think of that song! Was it John Denver?

I found this big stamp a little challenging to ink up. It is large enough that you need to lay it down face up and hold the ink pad to coat it. But patting or tapping the ink pad doesn't get very good coverage, so pressing and twisting is required, but then I get lines that I can't make go away completely. I had to do this one several times. It is probably less noticeable on a slightly darker color of CS, but it was a challenge on Vanilla. Worth the effort, but challenging.

I used Soft Suede ink on the vanilla CS and matted on Soft Suede CS. Then I used the dotted ribbon punch to create toe faux ribbon on the front with Daffodil Delight CS. Oval punches finished it off. I found this lovely card in the gallery over on SCS by stamperjeno. Thanks! Simple and fun!

Don't forget it is mail-a-card-Monday!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Oh Summer, where for art thou?

2011-09-18T07:10:00.000-07:00

I never wish away summer, but I always wish away winter....so I am not really ready for fall yet because that means winter is right behind it. Having lived most of my life in San Diego, I much prefer warm temperatures. I think snow is wonderful and pretty, from inside the house or on TV. I lived six years in the high altitudes and dealt with snow so much that I am "over" snow. I like to say that snow and wind (we get a ton of wind here in my little valley) are 4 letter words. Please don't say them.

I do, however, like to make fall cards! I like the colors and the leaves and the calmness of them. I liked the card on SCS by picard76 a lot, so I came up with my own version. The SS is french Foliage, and the colors for ink are Old Olive, Cajun Craze, More Mustard, and Chocolate Chip. I started with Very Vanilla CA. The main focal point has a square of Mustard ink in it. Wonder how I did that? I took my square clear stamp block and applied ink directly to the block. When pressed to the CS you get a look that is soft and almost fuzzy. Then I added the leaves and so on.

Happy Sunday, may you be blessed and loved!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Fall is in the air~~

2011-09-17T06:42:00.000-07:00

What a week it's been for me. Sorry I haven't posted much, but then I suppose you're used to my random spurts of posting!

I CASed this one from SCS! The three pieces of CS are Old Olive, More Mustard and Cajun Craze. I ran them thru the Cuttlebug with an embossing folder to give them some dimension. The leaves are stamped on the Very Vanilla CS in the same colors of ink plus Chocolate Chip. I like the look of torn paper, so that what I did along the top! Lastly I added some linen thread tied around the end of the Vanilla piece~~

That's about it, very simple and fast. The finished card size is 5.5 x 3.5 A fun new size to work with!

Stamp Club today girls! See ya later!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Reverse Masking!~~

2011-09-14T11:26:00.000-07:00

Hi there! I have been playing with French Foliage this week as the fall temps have been showing themselves. It seemed appropriate!

This technique warrants the blog post!

This is reverse masking! I cut a 2.75 x 2.75 inch square from the center of a 4.25 x 5.5 piece of CS by first cutting a 2.75 inch square of CS. Then I used an Exacto knife to cut around the square which I had adhered to a 4.25 x 5.5 piece of CS.( I did it that way to be sure that when I centered the square onto the card front I was stamping on, that it would be truly centered.) I then placed a small amount of adhesive onto the mask to hold it in place, and laid it onto the Vanilla CS I would be stamping on. Then I sponged, with Pumpkin Pie ink, into the square. Then I added the leaves and dots and whatnot while the mask was still in place. When I removed the mask, I got the nice square full of images you see! (clear as mud?)

There is Pumpkin Pie CS behind the main image, but it's the Pumpkin ink I don't care for. It came out to orangy. Maybe if I had used More Mustard.....anyway, the technique is cool! Check out www.Splitcoaststampers.com for a tutorial!

More French Foliage cards to come! Stamp a little today k?

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

The little things~~

2011-09-07T06:57:00.000-07:00

I tried another card with the FTL #156 from the CAS blog!

I used my Cuttlebug narrow strip embossing folder to create the pattern behind the circle image. I used my tiny circle punch to create the Pumpkin Pie circles inside the flowers on the embossing! The color combo came from the Color Coach, and I added Crumb Cake for a neutral. Once again, my $1 bin greetings hit the mark!

Have you ever seen an item of clothing on someone and thought, "that would make a great card!" I have! Next time that happens, stop and jot down some notes......what colors were in the clothing, what stamp set do I have that would be great for that? Then put those notes with your craft stuff and when you need some inspiration, ta-da!

Happy Wednesday to ya~~~

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Birds and Bees'----without the bees~~

2011-09-06T01:01:00.000-07:00

I really like going to the CAS blog for inspiration, because when I do, about 1/3 of the thinking is done for me! I can create an original, but I don't need to figure out where to put stuff! I just choose colors and stamps and go! So many times I find a cute card to CASe, but I like it so much that I don't really make it mine. I just copy, and I am pretty good at that! But with the CAS blog, it is more my creation! Capeesh?

I used the new In Color, Pool Party for the base. The color selection came from the Color Coach, and I added So Saffron and Not Quite Navy. The bird is from PTI and the sentiment is from my score at the $1 bin last week! Aren't they great!

The CS and ink are, of course, SU!

This is FTL #156 on CAS. Some have used ribbon for the narrow strip behind the circle, some have used DSP, I went with stamping! I have these great circle border stamps from PTI that I rarely use, cuz I don't really know what to do with them. But they were perfect for today!

Tomorrow I will have another card to show you using the same layout. I actually have a library of sketches on my computer that I refer to when I need something to start with! Try it!

~~ Blessings ~~

Shelli

Dude!~~

2011-09-05T07:27:00.000-07:00

While blog surfing yesterday, I came across THIS card by Julie D.! I knew I could recreate it, and it was so great that I made just a few changes.........go see!

I was especially impressed by her reverse "kissing" technique. After I inked the skateboarder guy with Soft Suede ink, I used the dotted stamp from Extreme Elements and pressed it onto the inked skateboarder, this lifted some of the ink off and created the cool look you see there!

The circles are Lucky Limeade as is the ink on them. My little happy birthday greeting is from Teeny Tiny Wishes (if you don't own it, you should!)

I am enjoying a day off work today and so is my hubby! We almost never have time off together so I am looking forward to it~~what fun things will you do with your family today?

Here is a parting shot of my Granbaby! He will be 18 months tomorrow and he LOVES Thomas The Train! I get to see him later this month and I CAN'T wait!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

The Camera Returns~~!

2011-09-04T14:52:00.000-07:00

Well, when my camera finally returned from Disneyland, it's memory chip would not allow us to add any new photos, and it took me a couple weeks to get "into town" to get a new one......the joys of living in the sticks!

It's all the same I guess since I have been working a lot of extra hours and haven't really been stamping anyway......just the tiniest little bit!

I knew when I saw it that the Berry Blossoms DSP was a must have! I adore the rich colors in this set! Don't forget, it's okay to stamp on DSP, as I have done here.......there is no law against it!

I used the layout from the CAS blog, #155.

My CS is Calypso Coral with Espresso and Lucky Limeade and a hint of Wisteria Wonder. Great colors!

Here is a closeup of the words on the DSP. I hit pay dirt at my LCS last week! I found 10 awesome stamps in the $1 bin! Woo hoo! I was excited, AND I had a gift card from my recent birthday, so even better right!

Even though Monday is a holiday in the US, it is still Mail-A-Card-Monday! The postman will have to wait til Tuesday to pick it up, but you can still mail it!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Missing Camera~~

2011-08-19T01:01:00.000-07:00

My camera went to Disneyland this week with my darling daughters. To say I am jealous of their fun is an understatement. I am excited for them and their first road trip together, but it is a weird feeling to have my children take off to California without me.....really weird.

Anyway, the point of that musing was that I can't take new photos. So I went fishing in my file folder in the computer and came across a few great cards that I did before I had a blog!

This was done at a 10 for $10 class I taught once. Simple coloring on the stamp itself makes this two color image possible. Of course I used my SU markers. I adore them! Thanks to my mom for getting me the original set for Christmas one year! After two color renovations, I have had to redo them but the case and a few of the markers are original. They really do last a long long time!

Have a great weekend! See you back on Monday (unless I get especially motivated when my camera returns!)

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

A walk in the hood~~~

2011-08-18T01:01:00.000-07:00

So on my frequent (tho not frequent enough) walks in my neighborhood, I keep seeing flowers. Flowers like the images in the SS, Herb Expressions. And when I see them, I think "I should make a card like those flowers" and then my ADD kicks in and the card is long forgotten when I get home! Well, one day I finally remembered!

The lined paper you see behind the image really adds a lot, such a difference over just a white background. It is from the Eat Cake DSP pack. I used Cherry Cobbler CS and ran it first though the Cuttlebug with the Top Note die, and cut part of it off. Then I re-ran it though with the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder for some interest. I used the notebook edge punch on the Daffodil CS and mounted the image on Chocolate Chip CS. The fun little ribbon holder is from an old box of Hodgepodge Hardware in the antique brass finish with a sliver if Daffodil ribbon pulled though. I like the result very much! No CASeing here.......just a great idea (finally)~!

I hope that when you stamp, you also share. Share the great cards you make with others. Everyone wants to get something in the mail besides bills and ads.......share your creativity!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

Eeny Meeny~~

2011-08-17T11:48:00.000-07:00

Howdy doody and happy Wednesday to you!

I was inspired by the layout for today's card on a blog that I can no longer locate since I didn't post this card fast enough! If it's you, please tell me! I will credit you for sure!

I started with Daffodil Delight CS, and added DSP which is from Sale A Bration this year. I made each strip 1 inch wide, then I used the large oval punch to round the ends!

The fun flower image is ancient, from a set called Tags and More! I enjoy the images from this set because the whimsical style is fun to color in and they fit nicely in the circle punches! The greeting is the $1 bin again, and I added some Pear Pizzazz Stitched ribbon across the front to finish it off...ta-da!

Catching Air~~

2011-08-16T01:01:00.000-07:00

When I need a boy (not man) card, I revert to Extreme Elements! Works every time. I am sad we no longer carry the surfer, skateboarder, guitar guy and so on. They were wonderful additions. I will never part with the two I have!

Extreme Elements is still current, and so easy to work with! Whatever colors you are working with can be pulled together with this set. Not a whole lot extra needed either!

I started with Cajun Craze CS. Added Old Olive, Baja Breeze, and a touch of Black. Same for the inks. I ran the Olive piece through the Cuttlebug to add interest, and the rest is history! I like the way it came out very much!

Do some stamping this week, at least two cards! Consider it home work. Then the next thing is to mail them! I dare you!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

This little piggy~~

2011-08-15T01:01:00.000-07:00

This little piggy went to Tess' house! I used my new Button Buddy set to create this cute little guy......fun huh? I totally CAS'ed Julie here! Totally----

I used retired DSP from a hostess pack, the pinking hearts border punch, my Marvy 3 inch circle punch and a button from my stash! I inked up the piggy with Pretty In Pink and then markered on just his (or hers) ears with Regal Rose. The sentiment is from the $1 bin at my LCS! Easy peasy!

It's Mail-A-Card-Monday! Just do it!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

All Aboard~~

2011-08-14T01:01:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I pulled this beloved set out of its box! It's a great set for guys, and easy to work with!

My Son-In-Love just built a table to hold the Thomas Train set my grandson acquired. I was thinking how cool it is that he got to work on that so fast, and how much fun the little guy will have with it. I often mail cards to my grandson, but i haven't told my Son-In-Love that I appreciate him in a while, so I hope he likes it and feels loved!

The DSP is Newsprint (ret) by SU. I used black ink for the train image and sponged around it with Crumb Cake ink to distress is some, and make it seem more vintage. I crimped some Crumb Cake CS and added a narrow strip of black CS across the top. The rest is pretty plain to see!

I get a little smile each time I see my lovely new blog! It's so pretty! Thanks again to Gretchen for your "help"!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

A Thank You Is In Order~~

2011-08-13T06:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my Blog-O-Versary! The two year mark of when I began my stamping blog! Hard to believe two years has gone by, so much of my life has changed..........

I owe a huge thank you to my pal Gretchen Clark (http://gretchenclark.blogspot.com/) for her beautiful makeover of my blog! It started off with her helping me, and ended with her doing it all! She works "magic"! Thank you thank you Gretchen!

Blogging is a fun way to kind of show off really. I show off stuff I have made and my adorable family (especially my granbaby who is quickly turning toddler). I enjoy the outlet very much! I hope you enjoy the inspiration and thank you for adoring my family with me!

Here's to two more years!

~~Blessings~~

Shelli

CAS Blog!

2011-08-11T12:51:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post this afternoon! I used the CAS Blog sketch #152 for this one, and I wanted to share it with you!

This card went through many changes and re-do's to get here.....they don't all come out looking as good as I have them in my head when I get started!

The SS is Style Beautiful by SU! The Chocolate Chip piece is die cut using Spellbinders. The scallops are from an EK Success punch I purchased at my LCS. I added red rhinestones for some pop! The ribbon is SU Daffodil Delight taffeta.....love that stuff!

I hope you enjoy and stop back often for more ideas!

Leave a comment or email me.....I'd love to hear from you!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Just Believe~~

2011-08-11T10:29:00.000-07:00

I always try to give credit to whom it belongs when the original idea is not mine. Today's credit goes to Christina. Great card, great blog!

I started with the SS, Just Believe. I added an old Hero Arts BG stamp for the script you see over the main image. I colored directly on the flower stamp with my SU markers and lightly stamped over it with the script. I didn't really plan for it to not show up on top of the flower image that way, but it sure worked out nicely!

The ribbon is SU Bashful Blue taffeta, ad let me tell you, the taffeta ribbon is great! Worth the $$ in my opinion!

I also used the Pinking Hearts border punch there with Wild Wasabi CS. Pop it all up with Dimensionals and Ta-Da!

Some back tomorrow for a new blog header designed by none other than the wonderful Gretchen Clark! Stay tuned!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Inside Out~~

2011-08-10T01:01:00.000-07:00

Or Outside In.....either way!

Another fun club project for you today! The original idea came from Julie @ THIS POST!

Her tutorial is awesome! Make your own with her directions! I have long neglected this poor bear from Under The Stars!

So I started with Espresso CS, added Riding Hood Red and More Mustard. I colored him with colored pencils (a cheap and easy medium).

The small stamps in this set lend themselves nicely to the inside f the card!

The receiver will smile for sure when they open this little surprise!

Lastly I added the 1 3/4 inch white circle so I could add a greeting easily! Ta-Da!

I hope you'll be back tomorrow for another idea!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Two-Fer-Tuesday~~

2011-08-09T06:26:00.000-07:00

For today's Two-Fer day, I used a just retired set, that didn't get enough ink time while it was current!

This is one of those sets with little stamps that can be a challenge to figure out how to use, and that's where SU punches come in handy! The sketch is, once again, from the CAS blog, #113.

I pulled the color combo from the Color Coach card with Regal Rose. It also has So Saffronand Chocolate Chip. You gotta have a Color Coach if you stamp with SU! I used the

1 1 /4 inch square punch and the Pinking Hearts border punch here.

The inside of the card needs decorated too! I slapped a strip of DSP in So Saffron across the bottom to pull all the colors together.

The second in the Two-Fer set today, as you can see, is the same as before with color changes. I used Lucky Limeade, Perfect Plum and Riding Hood Red here. I also heat embossed the images with clear powder to try to give them more pop. It looks better IRL!

The color combo also came from The Color Coach on the Lucky Limeade card. I also added Early Espresso for the chocolate piece. Chocolate has to be brown right?

I hope you're inspired to spend some time stamping today! Encourage a friend.....I dare ya!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Two-Fer-Monday!

2011-08-08T01:01:00.000-07:00

If you weren't able to make stamp club, this is what you missed!

We used Button Buddies (new) to make the two cards in today's post! Depending on what table you sat at, you would have made one or the other.

The first one uses Calypso Coral CS (new!) and Daffodil, Baja and Calypso ink.

The next one uses Wisteria Wonder CS (new!) as well as Celery, Eggplant and Wisteria ink!

You can see it is the same layout for both cards, just the stamp and colors have been changed!

Both cards have a greeting from Tiny Tags~~

The flower card has a fun button for an accent, and the baby card used a 3/4 inch circle punch and a Dimensional with glitter for bling! (to bad the glitter glue photographed so terribly!)

I have a couple more Two-Fer days for you this week, so come back SOOOOOOON!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

I Dig You~~

2011-08-06T07:54:00.000-07:00

As soon as I saw this set in the new catalog I KNEW I had to buy it to make cards for my adorable Grandson! (Happy 17 month "bday" Logan!)

When I make cards for him I don't add a lot of bling or glitter because he is so little, and the cards are his to do as he likes, and he likes to wrinkle and love on them!

You can likely tell that I used markers to color directly on the stamp to create the dump truck. The other option would be to stamp it all solid but in different colors and piece them together to create the truck. But, I know how Logan likes to "love" on his cards so I opted out of that much work! I just want him to know his Mima' loves him and sends him little reminders!

The layout is right from the good old CAS blog again, #149! Thank you CAS!

The colors are Tangerine Tang, Wild Wasabi, Pacific Point CS. Daffodil Delight, Tangerine and Chocolate Chip markers were used on the Truck!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Who's ready for Christmas?

2011-08-04T07:06:00.000-07:00

Certainly not me!

The new Pennant Parade makes a mean Christmas tree though, so I had to share!

I started with Old Olive CS and DSP. I used my Spellbinders to make the rectangle shape in Chocolate and popped up the tree after I punched it out! The buttons are PTI wooden ones (smile) and the greeting is from the good ole $1 bin again!

Ta-da! It wouldn't hurt to make a few Christmas cards each month now to get a head start on it!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Missing You~~

2011-07-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

I made this for a friend who moved far far away this summer~~~and I miss her!

This gem is a 4 1/4 inch square card that began with Pear Pizazz CS and DSP. I figured out that the branchy thing from Sweet Summer fits nicely inside the Decorative Label Punch. I stamped and cut the red flower out and used a Dimensional to hold it up. My SU markers came in handy to color it in and match everything up. I also used the awesome Pear Pizazz stitched ribbon!

Lastly the greeting is from the $1 spot at my LCS. I check there every time I go and usually find 1-2 greeting stamps to add to my growing word collection! I like have options, and I really like paying $1 for them!

My Blog-O-Versary is coming soon, so be on the lookout for a new look to the blog around that time!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Kid Fun~~!

2011-07-17T01:01:00.000-07:00

I saw a layout on the CAS blog, (FLT#110) and it made me think of the DSP I have had for a while and seldom used. (I am a DSP hoarder....you?)

It is very simple but so cute! I used my Photo Corner punch to create a perfect "flag" on the end of the Bashful Blue CS. The blue peeking out from behind there is Pacific Point, a nice addition to the color family.

I did something a little different. I made the card base white, then cut DSP (the red dotted side) the same size as the card front and added it there, using less colored CS and leaving the inside of the card white for writing on.

Even though this one is not using new goodies, I hope you like it anyway! You gotta go the the CAS blog (in my side bar) for some simple layouts. Sometimes I get out a SS I want to use, then flip through the layouts until something jumps out at me that I think will work. Sometimes I do the opposite. As I am flipping thru layouts, a SS will come to mind. Try it!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Look Ma', no buttons~~!

2011-07-16T01:01:00.000-07:00

So here is Button Buddies with NO buttons!

This set has the option of using the image with just ink, or adding buttons on top. Again, I used my markers to color Cherry Cobbler and Wild Wasabi directly on to the stamp. I cut out and extra leaf and popped it up for dimension, but it is mostly a flat card.

The layout is from the CAS blog, FLT #111. Try it!

What does your weekend hold? I hope it includes some stamping time!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Button Buddies!~~

2011-07-15T01:01:00.000-07:00

So I had a few minutes to snap photos, so voila!

SU's new set, Button Buddies, is so fun! I used my markers to color on the stamp so the vase and leaves were different colors, then I added some buttons I has on hand. I didn't have the right kind of SU buttons (attached with Glue Dots), so I improvised. I still like it!

The mesh background stamp is an oldie. I used some Marvy punches for the circle and scallop circle. The ribbon is Daffodil Delight, the CS colors are Crumb Cake and Melon Mambo (plus black and white).

I made this little guy 4 1/4 x 4 1/4 for interest. You like?

Come back tomorrow for more Button Buddy fun!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Just for fun~~

2011-07-14T11:51:00.000-07:00

I just thought I put up a couple photo's from our trip to Sedona yesterday with my Dad. It was absolutely gorgeous weather and the scenery can't be beat! This is my hubby and my Dad~!
This is me getting ready to to inside the Haunted Hamburger~ I had a yummy mushroom and blue cheese burger! We sat outside, which I love to do! If you are sort of local and you haven't been, you should go! Sedona is like no other place..............so gorgeous!

Thanks for looking!

Shelli

Just for you~~

2011-07-13T20:39:00.000-07:00

Well, I said I had new stuff to show you this week, and I do, but..............My dad is here visiting and time is short to photograph cards. We have been doin' stuff and I am still working, sooooooooooooo....................

This is not new product, but it is a new card for you to look at! HERE is my inspiration, if you can call it that. I totally copied her exactly, so the term inspiration is used lightly here!

The card size is that new one I told you about, 3 1/2 by 5 1/2! Try it~~!

Have a super day---mail a smile~!!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Sweet Summer~~

2011-07-10T01:02:00.000-07:00

Once again, inspired by Julie's Stamping Spot, I created this cutie! It all began with Pear Pizzazz CS and DSP. The tab punch is done in Rich Razzleberry ink and CS. The greeting is Teeny Tiny Wishes (what else?) The birdie is colored with Tempting Turquoise! I got the color combo right from the Color Coach, and invaluable tool.

The card itself is 4 1/4 x 4 1/4. I fun size, square is nice to work with sometimes! Lastly is the notebook style punch by EK Success, which I have had for a long time. You likey?

~~ Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

BDay Circle Fun~~~

2011-07-10T01:01:00.000-07:00

The card today is for my beautiful daughter Kim! She turned 19 this week! Love you kiddo~~~

From the CAS blog, I present FLT86!

The black and white DSP is PTI, the butterfly punch is Martha Stewart (sorry, she just has some cool stuff!)

The button and flat back pearls are SU! I hope you like it!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Thank You CAS Blog~~!

2011-07-09T01:01:00.000-07:00

As you know, I visit the CLEAN AND SIMPLE BLOG often, and I always come away with a card or two in my brain!

This sketch is FLT 147!

For the first card I used Poppy Parade and Pear Pizzazz with a little black for POP! I really like how this turned out. The stamp set is Silhouette from the 2010-2011 catalog, hostess collection. I tossed a little NEW In Color in there with the bird.....he is Island Indigo. I used my SU markers to color directly on the stamps. There is a small amount of Crystal Effects to the flowers and bird, which ended up bleeding a little, but looks better IRL. Add some circle punches and the rest is SIMPLE......

For the second card I used some retired DSP and Pacific Point CS with a hint or Real Red to bring it all together! The DSP circles are up on Dimensionals, and I added a small amount of Stickles to some of the dots to add interest.

I think its great how the same sketch can be used to create very different cards! Check em out~!!

Catty CASe~~

2011-07-08T01:01:00.000-07:00

I adore the simplicity of this card---sometimes less is more. There was so much i could have done to bling it up, but it seemed finished the way it was. I CASed this card from page 44 of the 2009-2010 catalog.

I used the new In Color from 2011-2012 line, Calypso Coral, as well as Daffodil Delight. I only have Little Flowers SS (ret.) so I made it work here, but almost any small stamp would do great....a heart, a star....

This is a newer card SIZE though. The piece of CS I started with is 5 1/2 by 7", scored at 3 1/2 making the final product 5 1/2 by 3 1/2. Fun! It still fits in a standard envelope, but gives a different sized space to work with. Try it!

Mr. Brown stopped by yesterday with a box of new goodies for me to play with from the new catalog, so look for new stuff samples next week~!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

2011-07-07T01:01:00.000-07:00

I have found a GREAT new blog, and I have added it to my side bar for easy access. This gal is awesome and I have been inspired by many of her projects, and this is just one of them! Check

JULIE out!

Today's card began with Wild Wasabi CS, which I ran through my Cuttlebug with the Swiss Dots folder, added some Poppy Parade and So Saffron CS and the NEW Eat Cake DSP (stripes)!

The flower I colored with my markers and is from Watercolor Trio (ret).

Last I added some Poppy ribbon and ta-da!

Stamping doesn't have to be fancy to encourage someone-----just mail it! Who is not orth a $.44 cent stamp to you?

Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Ice Cream Pennant?

2011-07-06T01:01:00.000-07:00

I am just no good at choosing these post titles! Sorry........

So I want to show you another great idea to do with your Pennant Parade SS and the coordinating punch. Ice Cream Cone anyone?

I also pulled out my cupcake punch for the scoop of ice cream, and the cherry on top is also from that punch. If you look closely you can see the red rhinestone I added to the cherry!

The DSP you see there is also new, Just Add Cake. It has Poppy Parade and So Saffron among its colors, so I used Saffron for the base and Poppy Parade ribbon. What I didn't see until now is the the tag I have hanging from the ribbon was not photographed well at all. Sorry!

Head over to Splitcoaststampers for some more fab ideas!

Keep stamping.....as often as you can, and then more!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Proudly Presenting Pennant Parade~!

2011-07-05T01:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Tuesday! I hope your long weekend was fun and relaxing!

Some new goodies here today! Aren't they fun? The SS is Pennant Parade, and I love how SU make punches to o with so many of their SS! As a demo, there are a few things I can get early AND at a bigger discount! Yay!

The DSP you see is also new, and is called Just Add Cake. The layer underneath is Poppy Parade, last years In Color, but with the new program, the In Colors last TWO YEARS! So much better!

I used embroidery floss to string the pennants together, then added the bows at the ends only to finish it. There are Dimensional's between the two layers on the pennants to give it pop! There are many great ideas floating around out there for the SS and punch, come back tomorrow to see another one!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Uncle Sam Cuteness!

2011-07-04T14:27:00.001-07:00

I was totally inspired to stamp this morning, which I never thought would happen with so much activity around the house. But after today, it would be a while before Uncle Sam would make sense, so Carpe' Diem!

I pulled the idea totally from Dawn Olchefske HERE! She even has the "recipe"! Go make him now, he's so cute!

I made one for me and one for each of my two female guests today~~

I drew on the smile and eyes with a grey marker!

I made a cute little nag topper and ta-da! So fun! If you don't have time today, Memorial Day is in 8 weeks!

Happy Independence Day~~~~

Stamping Smiles

Shelli

When in doubt, CASe it out!~~

2011-07-04T01:01:00.000-07:00

That's what I do! When my mojo is low, I CASe! Today's card is just that. HERE is the original card......I changed a few things to make it what I needed, which sadly was a sympathy card. They are delicate cards to make. We try to put the perfect blend of softness and love without to much color. I like the way this came out, I think it meets my goals.

I started with Crumb Cake, my favorite neutral. The DSP is from the new catty, it's called Paisley Petals. I stamped the frame on Very Vanilla CS, and colored it with my markers, keeping the colors soft. The ribbon is PTI, and I used Dimensional's under the frame for interest. That's about it!

Again this week, I have a post each day, so stop back often and tell your friends!

Happy Independence Day-----Mail-A-Card-Monday is today, so since you can't actually MAIL it til tomorrow, just get one addressed and ready to go!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Farewell Chic Boutique~~

2011-07-01T01:01:00.000-07:00

This set may be retiring, but it will be some time before I am ready to get rid of it! Hasn't it only been around for one catalog? Huh.....

I started with Crumb Cake CS, layered up with black and Newsprint DSP. Then added some Cherry Cobbler under to Eiffel Tower, which is on Very Vanilla. The fun shape you see is a Nestability from Spellbinders. I thought the frame was to wide as is, so I trimmed down the Cherry layer with my scissors for a more narrow look.

I added the greeting with Whisper White ink and "Blinged" up my Tower with red rhinestones form my LCS. Lastly I added the red ribbon, only to discover the SU has a terrible selection of Cherry Cobbler ribbon available, even in the new catty! So disappointing....I am seldom dissappointed with SU on anything :-(

Stop by often and shoot me an email or a comment if you like what you see!

~~Stamping Smiles~

Shelli

Workin' on gettin' my mojo back~~

2011-06-30T01:01:00.000-07:00

I have recently been struggling with my stamping Mojo. A lot. I am sure you have noticed the lack of consistent posts.

The less I stamp, the less I want to stamp. The opposite is also true. They also say that stamping is cheaper than therapy, but I no longer believe that for a second. There's a lot of "therapy" in my stamp room!

So in an effort to solve my own dilemma, I decided to spend a few hours on concentrated stamping time. I think it worked! What you have been seeing this week is a result of that day! I feel better, so much better that I ordered some new goodies from the upcoming SU catalog! Next week could be even better!

This sketch also came from the CAS blog. I used some Garden Gala DSP with a retired SS from a mini, Watercolor Trio. I sure wish they had kept that one around!

I also photographed the inside since I keep dressing up the insides, but not taking photos.........simple but it adds such a nice touch!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Two Timer~~

2011-06-29T01:01:00.000-07:00

Here I go again with the punchy blog titles! Sheesh----

Today's card is full of so many non-SU things! The bicycle is from a PTI set, as is the greeting and the buttons. The "mesh" stamping you see on the three colored background is CTMH (ancient).

The ribbon is Pear Pizazz SU, as is the CS. (Pear Pizazz, Pumpkin Pie and Cajun Craze.) The card base is Crumb Cake and behind the trio of colors is early Espresso CS as well as the ink.

I used colored pencils to add some color as they are softer than SU markers, and I haven't gone Copic (yet).

I went to the CAS blog for the layout and I am never disappointed with their selection!

I hope you can get a card in the mail to someone you love today---you'll be glad you did!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Top Note Fun~~

2011-06-28T01:01:00.000-07:00

I had a little fun with the cuttlebug on this one! I folded a piece of 4 1/2" cs and ran it through with the Top Note Die, with the fold just above the cutting lines! It makes a smaller, adorable little card!

The owl is from Fox and Friends (retiring this month). Have you noticed how owls are "in"?

I added googley eyes and popped him up with Dimensionals. The greeting is from So Happy For You (SAB) which I markered up so I could fit it in where I wanted it rather than straight across! The ribbon is from my stash! Remember, the secret to a happy stamper is having everything on hand to complete a project! You just gotta have "stuff"!

See you back tomorrow!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Edgy Thank you~~

2011-06-27T07:08:00.000-07:00

Edgy because I used my Cuttlebug to create the zig-zag near the edges of the panel! Get it? (my friend Marla has ade me punchy....I blame her!)

Once again, the sketch is from the CAS blog. Gotta love em'!

The high point of this card is the buttons. I made them with the button die from my SU catalog! So fun! It embosses and cuts out several at a time. I used Dimensionals to give them some lift. The zig-zag folder fit it perfectly with the "theme" of this card. The folder is the narrow ones that come in a 5 pack, that just do narrow strips. So great when you just need something small like this!

It's Mail-a-card-Monday! Don't forget! Your loved ones are counting on you!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Banana Bread~~

2011-06-22T07:39:00.000-07:00

Made ya look!

I was thinking of the Barely Banana CS I used, and in my effort to come up with a catchy title for today's post, that's about as far as I got. Sorry!

I found this layout on the web recently, and of course now I cannot find it again to give proper credit.

I went diggin' in my DSP stash, the one that grows uncontrollably but rarely shrinks....and found this ancient and very mush loved DSP from years ago. It was one of the first times SU did two sided DSP and this was a great assortment! I used Barely Banana and Chocolate Chip CS paired with the new Four Frames SS, the Decorative Lable punch, the small oval punch, and both sizes of the Square punches. Call me punch happy!

I also used the Elegant Bouquet embossing folder with my Cuttlebug to give some dimension to the card. Guess that's about it~~~

Make someone smile tomorow by mailing them a handmade hug today! That's why we make these babies right?

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

CAS Sketch~~

2011-06-20T01:01:00.000-07:00

I am falling back to the Clean and Simple blog again for inspiration! They make stamping easy when your brain is frozen~~

Today I used Baja Breeze and Not Quite Navy CS with the Springtime Vintage DSP from the last mini catalog. The greeitng is new and from the Happy Greetings SS in the current mini!

The lil' flowers are from my LCS. Simple and effective, just a touch of bling!

This card is going to a special friend who just moved to Texas......hope she likes it!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Trio-Challenge~~

2011-06-18T06:41:00.000-07:00

This week I challenged the girls in my stamp club to make three different cards with the same stamp set. Quite a few have played along, and I am hoping a few more still will. It has been fun to see their creativity, and fun for them to be stretched! (or so I am told...)

This is my third of 3. I was origionally going to use Chic Boutique but I got stuck on this new Nautical stuff, and haven't quite left! This one is sort of cheating on the challenge as I didn't actually use the sailboat stamp, but the theme is the same. I have another couple cards in mind for it, but in case I don't get to it them, I am complete here!

I made this Fathers Day card for my "little brother" who is probably almost a foot taller than me! He is a great and loving dad and I know he doesn't read my blog (why would he? He doesn't stamp.....) so I figured it was safe to show his card here!

The CS used are Cherry Cobbler, Early Espresso and Crumb Cake (the circle). This is the Nautical DSP from SU, of course, and the rest is just stuff from my craft room. The rope, the brad and so on. Simple yet classy I think!

I hope your weekend is a good one! Stamp away!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Soft Sails~~

2011-06-15T01:01:00.000-07:00

Soft Suede Sails that is----

I am enjoying this A-la-cart stamp from SU! I can think of a few images that might be nice to have to add to it, like one of those ship steering wheel thingies, and and anchor.....we will see if maybe something comes out in the new catty! It's so close I can't stand it! It's my favorite part of summer!

Just a little colored pencil here, some bakers twine, a bit of Nautical DSP and a couple brads for pop. That's about it!

Your turn!

~~Stampng Smiles~~

Shelli

Sail Away Fathers Day~~

2011-06-13T08:18:00.000-07:00

I am so happy there are some new manly images in the Occasions Mini! I always need help with the manly cards! Yay SU!

The greeting is PTI, but everything else is SU! Night of Navy, Cherry Cobbler and Soft Suede CS. The bakers twine is SU! I just did a little coloring with my cheapo trusty colored pencils, and ta-da!

There is still time so get to work on those Fathers Day cards! Don't forget, it-s Mail-A-Card-Monday! Hugs~~~~

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Meow~~

2011-06-08T01:01:00.000-07:00

Another card from club! Don't we have fun girls?

I started with Crumb Cake CS, and layered with various Not Quite Navy and Old Olive DSP and CS.

The frame was made with a 3x3 square of CS punched with the

new style border punch (Dotted Ribbon punch used here) on all four sides! If you have the old style (black) punch, use a CS piece that is 2.75x2.75 square. Fun right?!

Inside is adorable (forgot to take photo). I used the birdbath stamp in the set to decorate the inside left corner to add interest and color to the inside......hey! Insides matter!

How do you like the black background? I got my photo tent in and I think it is working pretty well! I "stole" the desk lamp from my sons room while he is in Texas to add light......he MIGHT get it back!

Send a Friend a card TODAY!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Stamp Club Laughs~~

2011-06-07T08:27:00.000-07:00

Well, if you were at stamp club on Thursday, you understand the title to this post! This card was super simple, except one thing. We made the tassle. The Saturday group handled it just fine, but we had some good laughs over it on Thursday. Now you know why (at club) I said this card would be the death of me!

I made the tassle with embroidery floss. I will not even begin to attempt to explain how. It was enough at club! But, the hat is the 1 3/8 inch square punch up on Dimensionals with a black brad in the center. The greeting is from Happy Greetings in the Summer Mini.

Having not stamped for two weeks, I am behind the eight ball here. I will try to get back on track this week with a post on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at least!

Stamping Smiles

Shelli

Cute baby pics.....look out!

2011-05-23T20:28:00.000-07:00

We take a break from our regularly scheduled stamping chat to veiw the granbaby!

Here is Mr. Crazy Hair in the tub------

This is myself and Mr. Cutie Patootie on a walk to the park! He loves being outside!

And here is Speed Racer sittin' in a box of Hot Wheels!

We are going to Bearizona Tuesday! I hope he likes it! I can't seem to make my computer paste the link here for you, but Google Bearizona~~~it looks very cool!

~~Granbaby lovin' smiles~~

Shelli

Light box and Time off~~!

2011-05-20T06:14:00.000-07:00

Hello friends~~

Just a quick post to say I have finally finally ordered a new photo box to take the pictures for my blog in! It looks like THIS! I expect it to be here Tuesday! That will surely make my blog pics look better!

Also, the Granbaby arrives today (with his parents I suppose.....hee hee!) and I do not expect to post while I have company. Thanks to my new job I even have several days off while they are here, something I have not had before! We have many things planned, and perhaps stamping will be one of them, but maybe not. So look for me after Memorial Day!

~~Stamping Smiles!~~

Shelli

Mima'

Happy Greetings~~

2011-05-18T01:01:00.000-07:00

My title is the name of a new stamp set from the Summer Mini catalog! There are 6 new word stamps in the set, and I like em' all! You can't have enough words!

I used the layout from the CAS blog. I love their layouts, so simple and easy to incorporate into any kind of card. I am less than thrilled with the Bravo Burgundy CS I started with. I guess I like to lighter colors better. Maybe it's because it is summer now? I would like this better if I used Baja Breeze for the bas and Burgundy for the layer behind the greeting. Maybe next time!

The DSP is the new one, not available for purchase just yet, called Paisley Petals. I used some ancient SU ribbon, and the color is Cranberry Crisp. Remember that one? I think it goes well enough with the Burgundy CS~~

Only a few more days until my adorable grandson (and his parents) arrive! Can't wait! Be looking for a photo or two of the visit!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Fabulous Purses~~

2011-05-17T01:01:00.000-07:00

There are so many of these fun little purse cards floating around on the internet. It seems everyone is making them! I hadn't tried this type yet, so this is my attempt!

Punches....I love em'! My stamp club girls know, I have em all! I think there are only a couple I am missing.......I love how simple and easy it is to create cute things with them. At first I resisted the urge. They seemed so expensive. But once I started collecting them, I couldn't stop! And believe you me, they get used!

For this style of purse, 3 punches are used. The Tab Punch and both of the large oval punches by SU! The secret with the handle is to punch the small oval first then center it in the window of the larger one before punching it. Kind of backwards thinking if you haven't done it before! The tab punch is used, then cut in half to create two purses, as are the handles. Each oval shape creates two handles. Then use the inside smaller oval, cut in half, for the flap on the purse! My greeting stamp is (crooked) and from the $1 bin at my LCS (right Liss?) Tiny little rhinestones complete the look.~~

It's Mail-A-Card-Monday! Go go go~~~!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Hats off the the Grads~~

2011-05-16T01:01:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again isn't it! Graduations are happening and the kids are so excited! I cannot take credit for the design on this lovely card.....HERE is the link

to my inspiration!

This first one is for a high school graduate that I know.....I used the Cuttlebug to add texture on the sides of the focal panel with those narrow little embossing folders. The SS is Tassel Time (ret.), and Teeny Tiny Wishes for the greeting. The ribbon is from my LCS, as are the rhinestones. I was pleased!

This one is for a young lady graduation from 8th grade! Her favorite colors are black and purple so her mom asked me to make her a card in those colors. It was a pleasure to do so! Same everything except the colors!

I have about 7 more grad cards to make, so you will likely see this set again very soon!

Have a great weekend and get stampin! There are occasions coming up you need to prepare for! Grads, Dads and why not send a friend a Summer card! Just for fun~~~

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Bug Catchers~~

2011-05-12T01:01:00.000-07:00

Years ago when my kids were small, they had bug catchers. Those little wood or plastic cages where, when you were lucky enough to catch a bug, he could live for a few days with some grass and leaves and stuff!

Those were the days! Now we have laptops, cars and air soft rifles for entertainment.

The bugs are from SU's Bugs and Kisses SS. The jar I have had forever. I got it at a little stamping store in Glendale AZ years and years ago. Like most of my inspiration this week, this one came from SCS also.

It is bold and bright and I am told my one year old grandson loved it and had a wonderful time tearing it up! It was HIS card after all, sent for his enjoyment. I giggle at how he chose to enjoy it! Don't save it for my benefit....let the baby have his fun! I get to see him next week! Can't wait!

Okay, CS; Real Red, Gable Green, Only Orange, Black. Same for the ink. The ribbon is from my LCS. And lastly I put the Orange piece through my Cuttlebug with that fun folder for some dimension. I considered adding glitter to the bugs for some pop, but then I knew when the little guy got it, it would go in his mouth and that would be bad! But it would have been cute huh?~~~

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Soft Smells~~~

2011-05-11T01:01:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I held a new baby, but I remember.

They smell so sweet and make you smile before you even know it happened. The last new born I held was my grandson, just over a year ago. What a day that was!

I had just gotten up at 6 AM. I was having coffee with my hubby when the phone rang. It had been 6 days since I had moved into a new house and I was thankful that those 6 days had passed, because I knew when the phone rang, that it was for me! I knew Logan was on his way. Why else would the phone ring so early on a Friday morning!

I was right. After I showered, grabbed my bag and kissed my family, I drove the 6 1/2 hours to the hospital where (thankfully) we were all still waiting for him to be born. The rest is a blur, but I remember that first cry and the look on my daughter and her hubby's faces! Joy!

In light of my trip down memory lane, it is always good to have a few baby and sympathy cards on hand. This one was totally inspired from SCS! It uses the new A Slice of Life SS, some Pretty in Pink taffeta ribbon, CS and DSP. Very simple but less is more right?

PS I am lovin' the new taffeta ribbon by SU. I have it in several colors now. It ties nicely, is 3/8 inch wide and a pleasure to work with. Get some soon!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Star of the Show~~

2011-05-10T01:01:00.000-07:00

Hidey-Ho neighbor! Remember that one?

Not sure why it popped in my head right now, but honestly, that happens a lot. I am just goin' along and, WHAM! Some random thought disturbs my otherwise normal day. Maybe it's just me.....

This card was for a couple special guys this month who celebrated birthdays. Yes, I said a couple. I always make two cards, don't I stamp club members! I am proud to tell you that this one came together in a matter of just a few minutes! I got my idea HERE.

I used Extreme Elements SS and the greeting is from So Happy For You (SAB). More Mustard, Not Quite Nave and Crumb Cake CS and ink as well as Close to Cocoa ink. Both sizes of star punches by SU were used. I added some Linen Thread by SU to finish it off. Seriously, this card took 10 minutes. Shhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

So just a question......when did you last mail a hug to a friend? Just wondering..............

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Love for Mothers~~

2011-05-09T01:01:00.000-07:00

A special someone deserves this card!

You know how some ladies of the "slightly less than young" persuasion love purple! Well, purple it is!

I started with Elegant Eggplant and Crumb Cake CS. I added the flowers with an old set called Bud Basics and some Eggplant and Old Olive ink. I used the new Four Frames SS and Teeny Tiny Wishes for the greeting. Topped it off with a few pearls and some retired Old Olive striped ribbon! Ta-da! I hope she liked it~!

Happy post-mothers day to all you moms!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Four Frames Fun~~

2011-05-06T01:01:00.000-07:00

Lame Title....sorry! I am tired and out of idea's tonight!

At least for titles. I kinda like the card though! This is the new DSP called Paisley Petals. I liked this piece and I took one of the sections of it that I thought would look good on a card, cut it and placed it here. Pretty easy!

There are large sections of this piece that are plain with just the tan color background that you see, but no flowers. I used that to line the inside of the card.

I used Marina Mist, Night of Navy and white cs. The new SS, Four Frames, is used for the focal point along with Teeny Tiny Wishes for the greeting. I added some flat back pearls under the greeting for pop! The ribbon is from my LCS.

This beauty goes to my mother-in-law as she loves birds! It's not to late to make your mom a card for mothers day if you haven't! Get busy! What else do you buy all that stampin stuff for?

~~Stamping Smiles ~~

Shelli

2011-05-02T01:02:00.000-07:00

I find the best stuff in other's blogs! I was surfing around the other day and found THIS~. She kindly included directions which I printed out. I didn't understand a few of them, and I am pretty sure the measurement size for the top of the cup is off, but after I made a few simplifying changes, it was a snap to make! Credit for the original concept and idea all go to Sarah! Thank you so much!

I started with some confetti white CS and some Really Rust DSP. The stamped image is from A Slice of Life (hostess) and the pearls are SU! The fold is at the top of the cup. Don't you love it? I showed them off at work and they were a big hit! I will be making more of these for all my coffee lovin' friends!

Don't forget it's Mail-A-Card-Monday!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Yakkin' Birdies~~

2011-04-28T09:59:00.000-07:00

Different day, same sketch! Can you tell? I used the birdies instead of flowers, but it is the same sketch~~

I used Almost Amethyst and white CS. I colored on the birds from the Cheep Talk SS with Amethyst and Pretty in Pink markers as well as Daffodil Delight and Pumpkin Pie for the beaks and legs. I used Certainly Celery ink for the branches.

The ribbon is SU Certainly Celery Taffeta. The button is just from my stash, nothing special. The DSP is ancient SU Amethyst DSP. I have had it forever~!

I think the birdies look like they are talking to each other don't you? I cut them out and used Dimensionals to give them some flair.

I have another lovely to share with you tomorrow......see you then!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Bashful Birthday Blessings~~

2011-04-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

I saw another great sketch on the CAS blog!

HERE is the link to this weeks sketch....easy and a good one! Try it~~

I used: Bashful Blue, Certainly Celery and Ballet Blue CS. Bashful DSP, Bashful ink, an old SU flower punch, Little Leaves Sizzlits die, rhinestones from no where in particular. SU Bashful 1/4 inch ribbon, PTI button and embroidery floss.

I was very pleased with the results! You gotta try those CAS blog sketches! You can also upload your card to their blog so others can see it. You do not have to have a blog, you can also put it on SCS and link it that way!

Stop in tomorrow as I will have another card with this same sketch......it's a keeper!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Fun Faux Silk~~

2011-04-26T06:15:00.000-07:00

I adore the simplistic layouts like this one. You can showcase almost any stamp set with minimal effort!

If you haven't tried the Faux Silk technique, you should. It is super easy. If you know me very well, you know that I don't do complicated. So if I say it is easy, it truly is!

HERE is a link to the tutorial on SCS. Try it. If you have white tissue paper and a glue stick, you can do it!

I got my color combo from the Color Coach by SU.Real Red, Marina Mist, and Old Olive. Striking bold colors I think! I thought about adding more bling, but I was afraid it would take away from the technique, so I left it alone. I will be trying this one again soon!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

(AKA Stamping Nerd)

The Monday After~~~

2011-04-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

My Easter was fabulous....I hope yours was too! We spent the afternoon watching my daughter dance at a local church and then hanging out with friends......my kind of day!

Last week was SO busy, I didn't stamp for 6 days. 6 days! That's like for-ev-er! I also haven't posted, which I'm sure you noticed! Let's see if this week can be better......

Ok, for this one I used Melon Mambo CS, and DSP from the SAB pack.....Daffodil Delight CS and taffeta ribbon. I used the new Four Frames SS with Mambo ink for the focal point. The greeting is an older retired set. And lastly the brads are just from my LCS. Easy one!

It's Mail-A-Card-Monday! Get to it! I want to hear about that at next club or email me. I enjoy hearing how an unexpected card n the mail has touched someone!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

RAK Tuesday~~

2011-04-19T10:44:00.000-07:00

Monday had me feelin' a little less than great so Mail-A-Card Monday has become RAK Tuesday, at least for this week!

For this little beauty, I started with a white CS base. I layered on Daffodil Delight, after I ran it through the Cuttlebug with a Swiss Dots folder. I used Poppy Parade and Pear Pizazz DSP which I pulled from the level one hostess DSP pack. I stamped right onto it with black ink and trimmed around the flowers. This is called paper piecing......I think. Anyway, I used Dimensionals under the Pear flowers to add dimension and then I used some tiny clear beads from my LCS in the centers of the flowers. I used the happy bday greeting from Perfect Punches and my large oval punch to pop it out! Finally, I tied some Poppy ribbon around it and ta-da!

R.A.K. stands for Random Acts of Kindness. So mail a card, brighten a day, bring a smile, encourage a heart. You'll be glad you did!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Sunshine~~

2011-04-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

I'm in love.....with this card! It all started with the Springtime Vintage DSP and became something special!

The CS I used is Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla and Always Artichoke. You can see just a hint of the Artichoke peeking out from behind the DSP. I used the new Four Frames SS (available this month for purchase with a $20 SU purchase or free to qualifying hostesses) with Baja ink and added the sentiment in Artichoke ink. I had some PTI ribbon that was a nice matching shade, so I just tied it around the DSP. What makes this card special and different for me (besides the gorgeous DSP) is the straight pin. I got these pins a couple years ago from my friend (miss you!)
Kathie_Mcguire! I stuck the pin through the ribbon and added some Tacky Glue to the end, the slid a few small beads on to keep the pin on the card, and add some flair!

I hope you enjoyed today's card and that you'll let me know if you want to purchase the Four Frames set!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Cute as a Bug~~

2011-04-13T08:06:00.000-07:00

I am having some more fun with this set! I also broke down and got two more of the In Colors from SU. I am so glad they started offering the In Colors for two years, it seems to take me quite a while to warm up to them, and then they're gone, at least before! I loved Pear Pizazz right away, but I just now jumped on the Poppy Parade and Peach Parfait band wagon! My card base is Poppy Parade. Then I used all In Colors; Poppy as well as the Peach Parfait and Pear Pizazz CS. I embossed the bugs with Whisper White ink and white embossing powder. I used my 1 3/8 inch square punch after the powder was dry. I grabbed my Scallop Trim border punch and some Pear Pizazz CS for an accent on the white base. Then I finished it off with some Peach Parfait ribbon (which is fabulous!) Get stampin'!~~

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Bugs and Kisses~~

2011-04-12T01:01:00.000-07:00

I have become one of "those" people. You know the type.....the kind that needs to stamp every single day. Something is missing if I don't. I always thought "those" people were crazy, now I know it's true. I am crazy, crazy lucky and blessed to have a space to stamp (almost) every single day. A hubby who doesn't quite get it, but who doesn't really care either. I feel like I can "move on" once I have stamped. Some days, I try to get "enough" done so I CAN stamp. Other days, I stamp so that I can get stuff done. But either way, I stamp. Call me crazy, I won't hear ya anyway. I have the cutest grandson! He is so adorable and funny and busy busy busy! Since the day we found out the granbaby was going to be a boy, I knew I wanted this set. I finally got it! So this card is for the granbaby! He is one now and so full of life and joy and cuteness! I pulled out some old Green Galore CS for this, paired it with Only Orange and then Real Red, Brilliant Blue, Yo-Yo-Yellow ink to make the bugs come marching in! (are you hearing the music?)

Bugs and Kisses

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Double Thanks~~

2011-04-11T07:27:00.000-07:00

At my new job, one of the gals is expecting twins! Twin girls even! Double the fun right?

There was a shower for her this weekend, so in addition to her other gift, I made some thank you cards for her to use.

I used A Slice of Life set for this one and doubled the little jammies like her twins.

The cs is Pink Pirouette and Barely Banana (ret). The ribbon is from my LCS and the greeting is from Warmest Regards (ret.)

Just a simple straightforward card since I was making 10 of them, but I love the soft colors, very cuddly baby don't ya think?

It's Mail-A-Card-Monday! Get er' done!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

The fine line~~

2011-04-08T01:01:00.000-07:00

I read today this quote; "There is a fine line between Hobby and Mental Illness"! It made me giggle.....and some of you can totally relate! If you can't, don't lose hope....someday you will! I enjoyed the sketch from the CAS blog so much that I have made two more cards with it this week! The one I made yesterday got put in the mail before I remembered to take a pic of it! I used my SU markers to color on the stamps from Tart and Tangy that needed two colors. Like the blog suggests, I kept is simple. The greeting is from the $1 bin once again! You gotta just grab those once in a while. I have quite a collection and I use them often. Can't go wrong with words, especially $1 words! I used Tangerine Tango ink and CS, Real Red and Wild Wasabi ink and Chocolate Chip on the apple stem. Pretty easy! See you next week~~~

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Extreme Style~~

2011-04-07T01:01:00.000-07:00

Another sketch challenge for me today! This one is from the CAS blog #96 . Most guy cards are tough, the colors are more plain, no frills. All the stuff WE girls like. But Extreme Elements makes it easier! My color combo is Chocolate Chip, Cajun Craze and Marina Mist. The Extreme Skateboarder is on Dimensionals! I use So Happy For You for the greeting with Whisper White Ink. Ta-da! You can see a tiny bit that I lined the inside and added a bit of stamping to dress it up a bit. Otherwise this card may be challenging to sign because of the dark CS. This will actually be my youngest child and only boys birthday card. I can't believe the "baby" is turning 16 in a month. Good grief! I am ready to be an "empty nester" though. I think. At least that's what I've been waiting a few years for. It seems like a good idea today, but in a few years..............somebody hold my hand! Weird! I love my hubby though, and I have no intention of being "bored" or lonely. My daughter said to me once a couple years ago "Mom, when we're all gone aren't you gonna be bored?" I have so many things I want to do! I doubt I will be bored! Besides, I have one adorable GranBaby now, and in a few years, who knows! Time marches on doesn't it? Enough rambling............

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Spring Goodness~~

2011-04-06T01:01:00.000-07:00

I adore card sketches! They are a launching pad for me. When I use them I am not copying someone else's work, but creating my own, with a little help!

Today's sketch is from SCS and is #129. If you aren't familiar with SCS, you need to be. Splitcoaststampers.com. It is a wealth of information and helpful hints!

I got the color combo from my SU Color Coach. Certainly Celery, Tempting Turquoise and Rich Razzleberry. The Razzleberry I used on just the tulips in the basket. Subtle but there! The image is from A Flower For All Seasons.

I used my Cuttlebug to add texture to the Turquoise piece. I used SU's Scallop Trim Border punch for the So Saffron piece that I added to the right there. The ribbon is PTI, and the sentiment is from last years SAB!

I hope today you are blessed and loved! Make someone else feel the same, mail a hug!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Clean and Simple Blog~~

2011-04-05T01:01:00.000-07:00

I often fall to the Clean And Simple Blog for some stamping direction! I am never disappointed either!

Today's layout is from there, and I am going to use this one again I can tell. I think I will try it with flowers next.....

I used Real Red CS for the base here. The buttons are SU as is the punch I used to create the flower behind the buttons, Boho Blossoms punch. The greeting is from the SAB set, So Happy For You!

And shocker, I didn't use ANY ribbon on this card! That almost never happens with me!

I tried to make up for lost time this weekend by stamping a lot on Saturday. All the new job stuff has my old brain tired......but I got quite a few cards made then! So stop back by each day this week for more inspiration!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

What inspires you?~~

2011-04-04T01:01:00.000-07:00

I get inspired by the most random things sometimes. My friend, Mary Ann, has these shirts. And I seem to see a card in so many of them! Last week her shirt inspired me to make this card!

I have also used her shirts to be inspired to make THIS card.

I started with Crumb Cake CS, and I used the circular image form Artistic Etchings with black ink for the panel. I kept it simple by adding black satin ribbon and attaching to a black CS base.. The bling on the ribbon is from SU, Basic pearls(pg. 188 in the big catty), and they were Mary Ann's idea too! Lastly I used the Tiny Tags SS and the co-ordinating tag punch for the hanging tag, and tied it on with black embroidery floss!

Today is Mail A Card Monday! Go go go!

~~Happy Stamping~~

Shelli

What's new?~~~

2011-04-01T09:23:00.001-07:00

What a week! Thanks for checking back with me to see what's new!

With Sale-A-Bration, I chose the Elizabeth stamp set! The words from Teeny Tiny Wishes all fit inside the oval, so any kind of card you want can be made uber quick!

I also used my tiny tag punch for the first time here. I started with Crumb Cake CS, then layered Certainly Celery and white CS. I stamped the Elizabeth with Early Espresso and the greeting with Celery.

I added the Celery brads from the SU brad collection, tied with some ribbon and added the tiny tag. Ta-da!

Cheers to blogging and trying to get back into the swing of things!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Clean and Simple Blog Challenge~~

2011-03-23T01:01:00.000-07:00

I have been CASeing SO much lately, that I am uber proud of today's card!

I enjoy the CAS blog very much! Even tho the layout is theirs, the card is all me! I love that about their blog, it is a starting place. From there you choose the stamps, card stock, ink and embellishments!

I used:

Stamps: Sweet Summer

CS: So Saffron

Punches: 3/4 inch and 1 inch circle

Ink: Basic Black, (watercolored with) Rose Red, So Saffron, Wild Wasabi

Dimensionals, Rose Red Seam Binding, $1 bin stamp for greeting, blender pen, retired DSP, Stickles for the flowers (hard to see here).

I usually go for quick and easy, but I wanted to try water coloring with the blender pen! I need to get more so I have one for each color family; blues, greens, yellows, reds. It took WAY longer than markers, but I like the softer look I got with the blender pen, and it was kinda fun to do something different!

My new job is going great, but hasn't left me for much stamping time---(insert sad face)....but there is CUB this weekend! Yay!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Flower Power~~

2011-03-22T01:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Tuesday!

This copy is a total CASe! Not gonna lie. It was to perfect to change!

HERE is where I copied from!

Again, I hate how off the colors are here. I used:

SS: Sweet Summer, Best Yet (ret)

CS: white, Pear Pizazz, Real Red

DSP: Springtime Vintage

Ink: Basic Black

black satin ribbon, small oval punch (SU), Dimensional, Framed Tulips embossing folder, SU markers.

When was the last time you mailed someone a hug? I bet it's been to long! Remember, a handmade card is a hug with a fold in the middle! Kathie says so!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Holy Thank You~~~~

2011-03-21T01:01:00.000-07:00

Some day I need to get a photo tent to take better photos! The yellow in these photos is so off. It is the exact same color IRL, but looks so funky here!

For this fun little guy I used:

SS: A Slice of Life, Teeny Tiny Wishes

CS: Daffodil Delight, Melon Mambo, Temting Turquoise, white

Ink: Basic Black

Tools: Eyelet edge punch (SU), 1 1/4, 1 3/8, 1 3/4 inch circle punches

Silver Brads, SU Markers

I started by using the 1 1/4 inch circle on the card front to create a window. I then grabbed the turquoise cs and punched a 1 1/4 inch circle, then used the 1 3/4 to create a larger circle around that to frame in the hole on the card front. I stamped thank you onto white cs, punched out with the 1 1/4.

I used the 1 3/8 circle I took from the frame and layered it behind the white circle. Then I applied adhesive, held it in place behind the hole, and when I was sure it was where I wanted, I pressed it onto the inside of the card to perfectly fill the hole when the card is closed! I hope that makes sense............

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

A Little Lovin' In My Mailbox~~

2011-03-19T14:13:00.000-07:00

So a wonderfully talented stamper sent me this today! She also just happens to be my daughter, and the mommy to the Gran Baby!

She, like most of us, struggles with small images and how to use them. Well, I think you're on to something here!

Thanks for the love girlie! I hope the rest of you are inspired!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

2011-03-14T01:01:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I am the most uncreative stamper there is. I am one heck of a copier though!

HERE is the link on SCS to the card I almost perfectly copied! I wanted to spruce it up a little with some striped ribbon, but the rest is straight up her design!

Stamps used: A Slice of Life (hostess from current mini) Happy Everything (ret.)

Punches used: 1 3/4 circle, Decorative Label, Pinking Hearts Border (inside).

CS used: Chocolate Chip, Pretty in Pink, white.

Ink used: black and Whisper White

I used SU Markers to color the jammie's. Then I popped up the image with Dimensionals.

Here is the same version in Bashful Blue!

There is a layer of CS on the front, and I thought about giving it some texture with the Cuttlebug, but decided against it. Now I wish I had or else popped it up with Dimensionals too. I think it needs a little something to make the layer more obvious.

Well, I am off to enjoy some more of the fantastic Arizona sunshine we have had the last few days. I intend to enjoy some of the sunshine from the window in my craft room too! (wink*)

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Sweet Treats~~

2011-03-11T01:01:00.000-08:00

I had a hard time deciding whether or not to make this little cutie at stamp club next week, but since I have decided on something else, I can show you this now!

The directions and credit all go to
Andrea_Walford for this little guy~~

I cruise her site and subscribe to her bi-monthly newsletter and she is fabulous!

One sheet of CS will make two of these little boxes....I love smart card-stock-usage. It makes me happy....odd but true!

If you want the directions they are only available until the 13th of March through her newsletter, so get it before its gone!

I was out sick for two days this week, so I made these for my co-workers who had to cover for me! I am starting a new job Tuesday and I will dearly miss my time with my current co-workers. We have had some darn good times together! Laughter is a part of our everyday, at least at some point. I know they will be glad when I come to visit, so long as I bring treats!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

Bashful Bliss~~

2011-03-10T01:01:00.000-08:00

I am lovin' the brown and blue combo! It is so perfect for this set!

HERE is my inspiration. I WAS going to try the scrunched ribbon technique, but alas, I forgot. By then the image was placed and there was no room. Oh well, next time!

I love the detail that SU's half back pearls add, so right for butterflies.

Here we have Early Espresso and Bashful Blue ink and CS. I also used the SU Sizzix folder, Framed Tulips.

I guess I took the photo crooked! I bet my friend Gretchen_Clark could help me fix it.......maybe next time!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

SAB lovlies!~~

2011-03-09T08:32:00.000-08:00

I just got the new Bliss set from the SU SAB catalog, and it is fantastic! SCS is full of wonderful inspiration for this terrific set, and I CASed this one for sure! Just a few minor changes and I am happy!

HERE is the blog I snagged this beauty from!

I used Tangerine Tango, Daffodil delight and Pumpkin Pie inks. Bliss and So Happy for You SS. The rhinestones are from my LCS. I used the 1 1/2 inch Marvy circle punch and Dimensionals to pop the butterflies up! Lastly the Sizzix embossing folder is by SU called Elegant Lines.

I have a few more projects this week for you using the Bliss set. Sometimes it is fun to concentrate on just one set for a while!

Stamp club girls-----check your emails this weekend for your "Who's When and What's What" email!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli

The Birthday Boy~~

2011-03-08T07:57:00.000-08:00

Well here he is, the star of the show~!

His first birthday was so fun! His mommy and daddy gave him the cutest party, and the theme was puppies! He loves puppies!

His daddy wanted him to have this firetruck ball pit.....and after mommy got inside with him, he loved it! Time flies so fast.....it seems like we just brought him home and now he is scraping frosting off his birthday cupcake and loving it!

This boy loves being outside and at the park, so it was special to be able to take him there twice during his birthday weekend!

Love you little buddy!!

Thanks for taking a peek into my life, stamping stuff coming soon!

Happy Birthday Monkey Boy~~

2011-03-05T01:01:00.000-08:00

Time flies faster with grandchildren. If you have some then you know I am right! Especially if they don't live near you. My little guy lives 400 miles away, and while I am thankful it is not more, it is still 400 MILES!

I wanted his card to be special like him! His parents did a jungle theme in the nursery so I went with the cute little monkey! I hopped on SCS and looked at all the monkey punch art there was and picked out my favorite elements from a couple different ones.

I used these punches; 2 inch (blue) Marvy, SU extra large oval, SU large heart, 1 1/4 inch circle, 1 inch circle, 1/2 inch circle and 1/4 inch circle. I drew the smile and nose holes in myself.

The hat is free hand from Celebrations DSP. I used Pacific Point and Bashful CS, along with some Poppy ribbon from PTI!

The dry embossing is a Cuttlebug folder that is one of the first couple I bought, and I am pretty sure it is still available at your LCS. Cute right?

For the inside I used a strip of Celebrations DSP and some fun alphabet stamps. These are from Tidy Alphabet which is retired (sorry)!

The ink colors match the DSP, Wild Wasabi, Pacific Point, and Real Red.

Today is his little party, and all the grammas, grampas, and great grammas and grampas will be there! It will be so fun to be there and watch him enjoy his first birthday. I am so blessed!

Next post will be non stamping related so I can share a photo (or two) of the birthday boy!

See ya then~~!

~~Stamping Smiles~~

Shelli