Steph Zerbe Design

Valentine's Day Felt Bag

2012-01-10T03:30:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day is approaching! Are you making treat bags for your kiddos classes? For you girlfriends? For your Mom?

Today at Clear & Simple Stamps, the Design Team is showcasing projects with the theme "It's in the bag". Here is mine....

I designed this bag die to have changeable fronts. CSS has a ton of new dies in this Critters Collection. This little raccoon is just one of many 'Little Critters' that you can use to decorate this bag. You can find this super cute Build-A-Critter Raccoon die HERE. Be sure to get the 'base die' Build-A-Critter: Owl/Kitty. I used these dies to cut felt. Doesn't it look awesome?

Ok, so I added little notches in the bag die for you to add your own ribbon or whatever else you can think up. I used Clear & Simple Stamps Black Twill ribbon. I love the texture of this ribbon and it's the perfect width for the ribbon holes in the bag.

I kept the back side simple. One little felt heart will do. So cute!

I stitched together the side of the bag that you would normally add a strip of tape. I used CSS new line of, what I call 'candy cane' baker's twine. You may notice in the next photo that I cut the bag from chipboard as well and added it to the inside of the felt bag.

Inside is a little assortment of Little Critter cards. You can see all the details for these cards HERE and HERE. And for more felt Build-A-Critters check out this post, HERE.

Check out the rest of the team's 'It's in the bag'.....

Lori / Amber / Laurie / Steph / Kim / Dana / Laura / Tracy

Thanks for stopping by,
steph

Raccoon Valentine's Day Felt Bag:

     • dies: CSS Build-A-Critter Die Collection: Raccoon/Fox

     • ribbon: CSS Perfect Little Black Dress twill ribbon (designer mix)

     • twine: CSS Perfect Little Black Dress twine

     • other: walmart, creative cuts & more

Make It Monday #47

2012-01-06T00:00:00.000-05:00

Make It Monday #47: a la carte

I thought Make It Monday #46: Any Die into a Folded Tag looked like a good challenge. I used my new favorite PTI set and dies.... Truckin' It.

Here's the folded pieces I cut from the die. I colored three separate die cuts to go on top of the folded pieces.

Super cute tags for Back-To-School gifts for teachers or kids or even just for a boy's gift.

Can you see how there are two pieces here?

Traffic Jam. lol

Thanks for stopping by,
steph

Traffic Jam Gift Tags:

     • stamps: PTI Boy Basics: Truckin' It

     • ink: Clear & Simple Stamps Perfect Little Black Dress

     • cardstock: Clear & Simple Stamps A Blanc Check

     • other: PTI Truckin' It Die, Copics, Clear & Simple Stamps Twine

CSS Release Day

2012-01-05T03:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the BIGGEST Release in history! Grab a cup of coffee and join all of us at Clear & Simple Stamps for an amazing release. There are so many new products in the store to include 12 stamp sets, 8 coordinating die cuts, twine, and more Copic markers!

For my project today I used some dies from the new collection of SIMPLE DIES called Build-A-Critter: Owl/Kitty

This is the bag I use when I take my craft supplies out of the house. I've been waiting to decorate it. Once I saw this owl cut in felt I knew where he had to go. I cut the owl die pieces from felt and assembled them with Unique Stitch glue. Then I adhered it to my Clear & Simple Stamps bag.

I also cut a few extra leaves to make this pretty flower hair clip.

Here are some more felt critters for you to drool over.....

You will see the Raccoon that is MIA here on the 10th of January.

Bat.

Fox.

Kitty.

& Mr. Bee. Aren't these little critters the best?!!!

Now, check out the Design Teams projects:

Thanks for stopping by,

steph

Sneak Peeks Day 3: congrats card

2012-01-03T00:00:00.000-05:00

It's Day 3 and I have another fun set to showcase. This set is called Little Critters.
The set includes 3 medium sized "critters" along with coordinating sentiments. I said 'medium' so that must mean there is a small and a large type 'Critter' something or other as well, huh? You might be on to something.... I guess you'll find out on the 5th. I'm certain you won't be disappointed.

On to the card:

Yep, that is a die cut owl and branch!!! :) I stamped the owl on the die cut then placed a clear bubble sticker thingy to each eye for added dimension. I love the fun and playful fonts in this set. One of which you can color in, if you wish.

I colored in the owl and the sentiment HOOT HOOT with Copic markers. Then I pressed my colorless Copic marker into the corner of a towel and dabbed the towel on both the owl and the sentiment. It makes a fun splotchy look. The name for this technique escapes me.

Well, that's all for me today. Stop by the CSS blog for more peeks at this fabulous January release. What do you think so far?

Thanks for popping in,
Steph

Congrats Card:

     • stamps: Little Critters, Critter Sentiments

     • ink: Perfect Little Black Dress, A Clean Slate

     • cardstock: A Blanc Check

     • other: Build-A-Critter Die Collection

Sneak Peeks Day 2: valentine cards

2012-01-02T00:00:00.000-05:00

Day 2 of sneaks for Clear & Simple Stamps January line up is here.... I have 2 more little cards to share.

These sneaks are from the set called Taglines: Critters.

Well, that's it from me today. Now be sure to check out the other Clear & Simple Stamps Design Team blogs for more January sneak peek goodness...

Laura O’Donnell
Laura Bassen

Thanks for stopping by today!
Steph

Owl Miss You Card:

     • stamps: Taglines: Critters

     • ink: Perfect Little Black Dress

     • cardstock: A Blanc Check

     • other: Copic Markers

Love Bandit Card:
     • stamps: Taglines: Critters

     • ink: Perfect Little Black Dress

     • cardstock: A Blanc Check

     • other: Copic Markers

Sneak Peek Day 1: valentine cards

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000-05:00

Are you ready for some sneak peeks of Clear & Simple Stamps January 2012 line up? I know I am.
From now until January 5th we get to visit the Design Team's blogs for sneaks.

Here is a little set of cards I made for you today.

You are gonna love this set. It's called Taglines: Critters
It will be available January 5th at Clear & Simple Stamps.

Well, that's it from me today. Now be sure to visit the Clear & Simple Stamps blog for Background Basics Preview!

Thanks for stopping by today!
Steph

Hey Foxy Lady:

     • stamps: Taglines: Critters

     • ink: Perfect Little Black Dress

     • cardstock: A Blanc Check

     • other: Copic Markers

Hi Y'owl card:

     • stamps: Taglines: Critters

     • ink: Perfect Little Black Dress

     • cardstock: A Blanc Check

     • other: Copic Markers

Love Bite Card:

     • stamps: Taglines: Critters

     • ink: Perfect Little Black Dress, You're Such A Gray-cious Host

     • cardstock: A Blanc Check

GRAD

2011-12-24T13:54:00.000-05:00

MFT stamps.
Crate Paper papers.
Copics from Clear & Simple Stamps.

Boy Thank You

2011-12-21T13:51:00.000-05:00

MFT Stamps.
Clear & Simple Stamps ribbon and sentiment.
Crate Paper designer paper.

LOVE many things...

2011-12-17T13:23:00.000-05:00

The sentiment stamp and pattern papers are from Stampin' Up. Die cut and needle image are from Clear & Simple Stamps On The Mend die and stamp set. And the cardstock is also from CSS.

I got these fun alphabet stickers at the CK craft fair this past summer. Love them.

Caramel Apples

2011-12-14T12:47:00.000-05:00

Don't you love caramel apples this time of year? Every time I go to the local annual Holly Day Craft Fair I have to get a caramel apple. You get your choice of toppings.
This one is called Apple Pie. (sorry no pics) A green apple is dipped in caramel then white chocolate then crushed vanilla wafers. It is divine!

These apples look just like the real thing. How'd I do it?
Liquid Applique!

I used the apple image from Clear & Simple Stamps' new set called Taglines.
After adding the Liquid Applique and letting it dry overnight I made the caramel color using Copic Marker E55. Then hit it with a heat tool and poof!
The pail is from the Crafty Bonus set, which is not available for purchase.
But you can find the pail in outline form in the Craft Room set.

The tag is a die called Tags I. It's the perfect size for this project.

The ribbon, button and Copic markers I used can all be found at Clear & Simple Stamps.

and the winner is...

2011-12-14T12:32:00.000-05:00

Handmade Winner Awards

Cut strips of paper. Accordion fold every 1/2 inch.

Apply glue to both ends and attach to one another. Cut base from chipboard and apply glue.

Press accordion ring into glue and hold for several minutes. Decorate using Clear & Simple Stamps Circus Fun stamp set and Alpha Block II.

Thanks so much Card

2011-12-07T10:23:00.000-05:00

This lovely, shimmer misted card was made for the gal that helped my husband and I pick out our light fixtures for our new home. That was 1.5 yrs ago, now. The stamped light is from My Cute Stamps and the sentiment and background image are from PTI.

Happy Holidays!

Holiday Tags

2011-12-03T10:12:00.001-05:00

Inspired by the Wplus9 December Release sneak peeks. I won these sets a few months back. These mittens are fabulous, right?! I love the solid mittens and the background images. The tags are from Clear & Simple Stamps.

Happy Holidays!

MFT Sketch Challenge

2011-11-14T15:08:00.000-05:00

Here is my entry for MFT Wednesday Stamp Club Challenge - Sketch #45.

Isn't she a cutie?

I have an obsession with Copic markers, right now. Beware all crap papers, you are now prey to cute little, colorable images!!

Art Supplies Card

2011-11-12T08:59:00.000-05:00

I love filling the bucket from this set, Craft Room, and coloring in all the little images.

I stamped a button image in some of the dots on this fun pattern paper.

I love this big open font too. It's great for coloring in or even cutting out.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-10T08:51:00.000-05:00

This is one of my favorite sets from Stampin' Up! I love the way you can build a scene on this little rustic bench. This makes me want to tell you that I've been designing stamp sets that allow you to do just this. You are in for a treat, come January, at Clear & Simple Stamps.

Tag-tastic

2011-11-09T11:32:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I had my crafty gal pals over for some serious crafting! We each made an assortment of tags with Clear & Simple Stamps new tag dies and stamp sets.

We practiced coloring with Copic markers and tried our hands at a fun technique... masking.

Didn't this Fourth of July tag turnout great? It was so much fun to mask in all the images while making them look like they are peeking out of the pail. The pail is from Craft Room.

All of these images are from the same set, with the exception of the pail and button. This set is part of the November Stamp of the Month collection at Clear & Simple Stamps.

TAGLINES

TRENDY TAGS

TAGS 1

Also, with each month, comes a fun new challenge that is presented to the design team. This month features a gift ensemble inspired by a tag. We’ve included a full list of participating CSS designers for you to get inspired:


Lori / Laurie / Kim / Dana / Cristina / Tracy / Laura B.

Let's get our craft on!

2011-11-07T08:39:00.000-05:00

This is an invitation I made for a crafty girlfriend. We used some new sets from Clear & Simple Stamps Craft Room and Crafty Sentiments to make this card for our kids teachers.

For the invitation, I first stamped the banner image then masked in as many crafty images as possible. Then I used a Copic Marker, W1, along the edge of each banner.

I used my favorite color button, ribbon and papers from CSS, A Clean Slate.

Get your craft on ladies!!

Clear & Simple Stamps Nov Release

2011-11-01T03:20:00.000-04:00

Are you looking for an All-in-one Occasions stamp set?

Well, look no further. CSS has just what you need right here! This release is filled with some seriously cute tags, mini images, sentiments and coordinating tags. What more does a girl need? Okay, so maybe a few samples to jump start your creativity.... but first a look at the sets.

Trendy Tags:

Taglines:

and coordinating dies!

Here's what I made for you today:

I used the Polaroid image from last months release and just masked in a few images from Taglines. I wanted to see the tag die used in a non-traditional way. So, I cut a tag from my card base and stamped the tag right through the opening.

I love the little HB2U stamp. Wouldn't it make a fun background too? I can see it stamped in a whole rainbow of colors..... that gives me an idea.! Stay tuned.....

but for now, check out the rest of the DT's samples:

Just Add Color Challenge

2011-10-25T09:35:00.000-04:00

CAS-ual Fridays has a Just Add Color challenge up right now.

I made an invitation for a crafty friend using Copic markers.

I used my new sets from Clear & Simple Craft Room and Crafty Sentiments.

Inside:

Week 2: Behind the Scenes

2011-10-15T00:30:00.000-04:00

We are always looking for fun new ways to use stamp sets, right? Try using Craft Room to inspire fun teacher projects. With a quick masking of the letter "T", we now have a fun project for that one-of-a-kind teacher...

STYLE BOARD:

DIRECTIONS:

Create a 4.25" x 5.5" A Blanc Check card base.
Stamp shelf, bucket, pencils, jar of scissors and markers, and jar of buttons in Perfect Little Black Dress ink.
Stamp the "T" from the word CREATE at an angle leaning against the pencil bucket in Perfect Little Black Dress ink.
Color images with Copic Trio Marker sets: {Warm Gray Trio 1, Yellow Trio 2, Yellow Green Trio 2, Red Trio 2}.
Add a highlight to all images with BG0000 from the pastel marker set.
Loop ribbon, staple, and adhere to card with adhesive.
Stamp sentiment in Dare to be a Diva Red and You're Such a Gray-cious Host ink.

SUPPLIES:
STAMPS: Craft Room, Crafty Sentiments, Alpha Varsity
INK: You're Such a Gray-cious Host, Perfect Little Black Dress, Dare to be a Diva Red

PAPER: A Blanc Check
COPICS: Warm Gray Trio 1, Yellow Trio 2, Yellow Green Trio 2, Red Trio 2, BG0000
OTHER: Ribbon, Staple/Stapler

Crafty Card Sketch Group Challenge

2011-10-11T09:51:00.000-04:00

Clear & Simple Stamps creates a fun challenge for the design team each month using the Stamp Of The Month (SOTM). I thought I'd join in on the fun. Although, my card is not very simple. It's very busy, actually. I have been challenging myself this month to use leftover supplies with my new sets....

Craft Room and Crafty Sentiments!

I colored this fun image filled with paper, markers and ribbon with Copic markers from Clear & Simple Stamps.

Visit the CSS team to see more sketch ideas....
Lori / Laurie / Kim / Dana / Cristina / Tracy / Laura B. / Laura O.

Week 1: Behind the scenes with yours truly

2011-10-08T05:58:00.000-04:00

Welcome! Could you use a little MOJO kick start?
Challenge yourself to use some of your old designer papers and supplies with a few new CSS goodies in your stash. For this week's Style Watch project, I used some old scraps of designer papers left over from previous projects and paired them up with a couple of my new stamp sets: Craft Room and Crafty Sentiments. I took the challenge a step further and made everything look a bit aged by using my Copic marker trio sets. I love that you can get your main color, highlight and shadow bundled together at Clear and Simple Stamps. Blend a few earth tone trio sets together with your blender pen and you can easily age any image or card project.

LINK: See full card here! Inside and out.

DIRECTIONS:

Stamp background sentiment with Blanc Check ink onto Your Style Blue Me Away card base.
Distress edges with A Blanc Check ink.
Cut tickets and designer paper to size.
Stamp sentiment background in A Blanc Check on designer paper and adhere papers and tickets to card base.
Distress edges with Earth Trio 5 and Earth Trio 6.
Blend with the 0 Colorless Blender fro the Basics Trio
Adhere to bottom of card base.
Stamp polaroid image on A Blanc Check paper twice in Perfect Little Black Dress ink.
Stamp button jar in one polaroid in Perfect Little Black Dress ink and stamp quote background on the other polaroid.
Color buttons with trio marker sets and cut out polaroid.
Color other polaroid the same way you distressed the edges of the papers.
Cut out Polaroid to include the picture window and layer onto button polaroid.
Stamp sentiments in Perfect Little Black Dress ink on the polaroid, and in Dish All the Dirt Brown ink on the bottom right of the card base.
Cut strip of Dish All the Dirt Brown cardstock, flag one end and adhere to card.
Add a Creamsicle Cardigan button to right side of card base, warp with twine and tie into a bow.
Adhere layered polaroid image to card base on an angle with dimensionals.

SUPPLIES:
STAMPS: Craft Room, Crafty Sentiments, Quotes I
INK: Dish All The Dirt Brown, A Blanc Check, Perfect Little Black Dress
PAPER: Your Style Blue Me Away, A Blanc Check
BUTTONS: Creamsicle Cardigan
COPICS: Yellow Red Trio 1, Blue Trio 1, Yellow Geen Trio 1, Basics Trio,
Earth Trio 5, Earth Trio 6
OTHER: Bakers Twine, Designer Paper, Dimensionals

Special Announcement

2011-10-01T00:00:00.000-04:00

Today is a very special day for me. I have been waiting so long to share this news.
I am the new stamp illustrator for Clear & Simple Stamps! Today the Clear & Simple Stamps Design Team is unveiling my first set of stamps. These sets are perfect for us paper crafters!

Check out the Clear & Simple Stamps blog for more dirt on me and to see all the samples from the amazingly talented Design Team.

Here are the sets.... drum roll please....

Craft Room

Crafty Sentiments

Do you find that, as a crafter, you rarely receive handmade gifts? But when you do, you light up like a Christmas tree?! Our newborn received a handmade knitted blanket recently. I was so giddy!! It is so very special. It is true that the best things in life, IMHO, are handmade!

I really wanted to make a one layer card. So here, I just stamped the ribbon image multiple times directly to the card base and colored them in with Copics. I added a little 'candy cane' twine (that is what I like to call it) to the folded edge to match. Isn't she lovely?!

Now off you go. Here are the rest of the Design Team links:

Cristina Kowalczyk

Kim Duran

Laurie Willison

Lori Tecler

Tracy Schultz

Baby Reveal Party

2011-09-26T14:43:00.001-04:00

I am going to a "Baby reveal" party tonight to find out the gender our friends baby! I can't wait to see the reveal method. Will it be a cake with pink or blue filling? Will their toddler be wearing pink or blue? Will the meal reveal the sex? I'm so excited! I can't wait to have a onesie decorating shower for my friend!! I'll be sure to post all the goodies we make!!

UPDATE: They are having a boy!!!! Collin Robert
The answer was frozen inside of an ice cube. Everyone raced to find out the gender but we weren't allowed to bite the cube or run it under water. It was so funny watching people try to melt it in their mouths or hands. Brrrrrrr.

I pulled out the sewing machine for this little cutie. Nothing says baby like a little stitching. I love the Alpha Varsity alphabet set from Clear & Simple Stamps. It's works so well with so many different occasions .... even baby.

The pattern paper is Stampin' Up! and the sticker and chipboard element is from Cosmo Cricket.

Any golfers out there?

2011-09-24T20:56:00.000-04:00

My husband picked up golfing recently and now has a foursome of fellows to golf with. This Foursome golf set from Clear & Simple Stamps is just perfect for them. It would make a great birthday card for one of the guys.

I learned this crosshatch technique in a Clear & Simple Stamps Copics Class in Charlotte last month. It gives a cool shadow effect to your images. I picked up the pattern paper recently to.... My Mind's Eye.... they have many new collections out right now.

I also used a light gray Copics marker to add more of a shadowed effect to the image.

Simple Background

2011-09-18T12:31:00.001-04:00

I can't get enough of the On The Mend set from Clear & Simple Stamps. Instead of dabbing the stamp into the ink I dragged the stamp across the ink pad.... A Clean Slate is the color.
I can't get enough of that color either!

Featured Stamp Set: Alpha Varsity

2011-09-01T07:00:00.001-04:00

Clear & Simple Stamps design team was challenged to feature
this Alpha Varsity stamp set.
In the close up you can see I highlighted each letter with a COPICS marker. W3. Which you can also get at Clear & Simple Stamps.

I chose to pair up the Alpha Varsity stamp set with this Football stamp set. I love the play-by-play image in the background. I stamped it's second generation over and over to get this cool look. Beyond that is a cool new product called FabRips from Studio Calico. I picked it up at the Charlotte Creating Keepsakes Convention last weekend!

Football stamp set.

Alpha Varsity stamp set

Jewelry Tags and Wedding Attendants' Favor Bags

2011-08-24T12:08:00.000-04:00

A wedding is afoot for one of my cousins. Since I can't be there (just had a baby) I wanted to make not only her invitations but some favor boxes for her attendants. At the last minute, I decided to fill the boxes for my cousin with some of my handmade earrings. I have a huge stash just waiting for a good home. To make these lovely little tags, I used some scrap papers measuring approx. 1.5 x 2.5 scored. I punched two holes near the top and stamped with Clear & Simple Stamps On the Mend set and sentiments from PTI.

Using the small stitch image, I made a necklace by curving the clear stamp.

Some of the jewels....

These tags fit perfectly inside this darling dress box from Creative Cuts & More.

I didn't actually TIE the twine around the box. I tread it through a button then wrapped it around the middle of the dress. Looping it back around the button then securing the twine by simply threading it behind all the layers.

Then I added this cool die cut dress form from Clear & Simple Stamps.

Baby Cards

2011-08-24T11:46:00.000-04:00

I used Stampin' Up! stamps to make these super cute and simple baby cards.

You can circle the date and month of the baby's birth.

They could even be birthday cards.

Dinner invite

2011-08-21T11:01:00.000-04:00

A dinner invite is not complete without the temptation of dessert!

My Cute Stamps are just so darling. I love to color them with Copics.

I made the "cheesecake" stand out by raising it off the card

with a foam adhesive square and coloring the

cream puff with a glitter gel pen.

Our Baby Girl is Born

2011-07-29T07:57:00.001-04:00

She's here! And she was 3.5 weeks early!!

Who knew one's heart could love so much!

Emma's big brother is very excited to have a baby sister.

And Mama is happy to have her crafting MOJO back.

Stay tuned for a crafting overload people......

How to: Sheer Flowers

2011-06-25T07:00:00.001-04:00

Hi folks!

I frequent a little thrift shop now and then and came upon a couple Sheers.... curtains for a dollar. I originally wanted them to do a screen printing project (which I should show you).

After that project I had a ton leftover so....

I cut different size circles with my Big Shot.

3 layers at a time.

Then I held a lighter under the edges of each circle to give them

texture and drama.

Then I took one of each size to make a single flower.

Punched a whole.

Added a lovely brad.

Brushed a little Elmer's glue on the edges and

dipped them in sugar..... just kidding... glitter.

Aren't they delicious?

Let me remind you that these were made from thrift store sheers!

So cool and crafty .... and cheap!

Wedding Invite

2011-06-22T20:29:00.000-04:00

Just a little Graphic Design project I worked on this year for a dear cousin.
Although, they have not set a date, this is a sweet little mock-up of a unique
invitation with built-in panel for RSVP.

Modern and hot, right? I hope they pick a date soon! No pressure! :)

Home Decor Wreath

2011-06-22T20:19:00.000-04:00

You have to make one of these Magnolia leaf wreaths.
They are so beautiful and easy to make.
All you need is access to a Magnolia tree, a twig ring and hot glue.

I also sprayed the leaves with Glimmer Mist for a little subtle shine.
I just love it!!

We're having a baby!!

2011-06-19T07:00:00.002-04:00

Sorry folks! I have been completely neglecting my blog.

Now you know why!

I am 7 month pregnant now. We have about 52 days to go!

Yes, I am counting the days for this little one's arrival!

Here are a few pics....

Baby Zerbe number two at 23 weeks.

Look at that perfect profile!

Here the baby is scratching it's head with one hand

and the other hand seems to be holding up it's head.

The baby was settled in right below my belly button so we had a hard time getting a good picture. But that gave me plenty of time to see the rest of the baby. We could see the arm bones and leg bones. It's little spine and ribs. It's teeny, tiny heart beating away. The baby's heart is the size of a nickel at this point. That just amazes me!

The baby kept interrupting the recording of it's heart beat by kicking and punching. Each time the baby would kick you'd hear a big static like bang. It made me laugh because I could feel most of it. It was like the baby was kicking the ultrasound wand.

And yes, we finally found out the sex of the baby.

We're

having

a GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We are very excited! Now we need to think about a GIRL name.

We need to think about ALL THINGS GIRL!

Don't leave without suggesting a girl name.... or six!!

Hugs,

steph

Surprise Birthday Blog Hop

2011-03-07T23:59:00.003-05:00

Welcome!!!

If you have come to my blog from Maria's blog you are in the right place. If you are visiting with me first then you will want to start this special birthday blog hop from the beginning at Clear and Simple Stamps.

Prize

Two persons may win a prize full of Clear and Simple Stamps products that happen to be some of Reenee’s favorites. The prize is valued at $50. One winner will be selected from Clear and Simple Stamps’ Facebook fan page and another winner will be selected from their blog. So, make sure you leave Reenee a birthday wish there!

Coupon

And just for the icing on the case, Clear and Simple Stamps is also offering everyone a 15% store discount for the day! You read that right, if you’ve been checking out any of the stamps, cardstock, ribbon, ink, buttons, or Copic markers, you may want to head on over there and take advantage of this sale opportunity. Don’t forget to enter the coupon code: birthday15 before checking out!

Today the Clear & Simple Stamps Design Team is celebrating one of our beloved friend's birthday, Reenee. I used the set Fancy Wishes to help celebrate this lovely day. Happy Birthday Reenee!

--------> Now on to your next stop at Ashley's blog.

Just in case you get lost along the hop; here is a full list . . . .

BLOG HOP ORDER:

Clear and Simple Stamps

Clear and Simple Stamps {FB}

Special Announcement

2011-02-15T08:00:00.001-05:00

Free DOWNLOADS in the latest Paper Crafts Magazine!! Pick up a copy today!!

Be Mine

2011-02-14T15:12:00.001-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day! These adorable images are from Clear & Simple Stamps.

Sweet Hearts

Across the Miles

Check out the CCS blog for some incredibly cute ideas!! There is a baby shower idea you are gonna love!

Get Well Card

2010-12-26T07:00:00.001-05:00

This seriously cute card is made with MFT Stamps. Even the little stars on the jammies are from a new set at MFT.

She is all colored in with Copic Markers from Clear & Simple Stamps.

Dear Santa

2010-12-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

Finally, a Christmas card!
This little cutie is from MFT Stamps and the Dear Santa sticker is an SRM Sticker. Aren't they just darling together?! The papers are from Crate Paper.

I am teaching myself how to use Copic Markers! These little darling images are so fun to practice with.

Another oldie but goodie!

2010-12-22T07:00:00.001-05:00

So Halloween has past.... but I found a card I never shared
....or did I share it already?! Hmmm....

This little cutie boy with wagon image is from MFT Stamps. And the pumpkins, web and spiders are from Clear & Simple Stamps. I get all my Copic markers from Clear & Simple as well!!

And the fun skull and crossbones image is from Waltzingmouse Stamps.
I love mixing and matching sets!!

Thanks for stopping by.

2010-12-20T07:00:00.000-05:00

I must admit, I tend to make cards or projects in hopes to enter them into a contest but never follow through. I do believe this was a sketch challenge for Waltzingmouse. I made it while on vacation back in October.

The background stamp is from Clear & Simple Stamps. And the image and sentiment are from Waltzingmouse Stamps.

Thanks for stopping by.

2010-12-18T19:37:00.000-05:00

A little Stampin' Up!, a little Cosmo.

Cosmo Cricket WANTED papers that is. The dies I used are SU!

Thanks for stopping by.

Gift Box

2010-12-17T19:33:00.000-05:00

I have a darling little box for you today that I made for a friend. This fabulous little box is from Creative Cuts & More and the stamps are from Waltzingmouse Stamps.

Thanks for stopping by.

Caardvarks Challenge with Clear & Simple Stamps

2010-12-05T07:00:00.004-05:00

Join the very last Caardvarks Challenge. Yes, our last challenge, can you believe it? It is sad but we have had such a good run! We all enjoy seeing your entries each challenge and sharing prizes from our amazing sponsors. Thank you for always stopping by and playing along. This final challenge will run all through the month of December. Our lovely sponsor this month, Clear & Simple Stamps, has a big announcement as well. Check out the Caardvarks blog for all the details.

The design team was challenged to make a mono-chromatic card. I used three cardstocks in the same color family, all from Clear & Simple Stamps. Espresso Your Style Brown, Dish All The Dirt Brown and Tan cardstock.

I cut a shape from a thin sheet of cork. It looks so cool on this shape card. I stamped the pattern background in two shades of brown ink, Espresso Your Style and Dish All The Dirt.

I made the pattern from the set below: Art Deco

These darling little snails and sentiment are from the set appropriately named
Cute As A Bug.

Head on over to Caardvarks for the challenge details!!

When is teacher appreciation day?

2010-12-02T12:57:00.000-05:00

I really like making teacher cards now that my 3 yr old has several teachers but I never know when it is appropriate to give a card or gift to them. I get so embarrassed when I give gifts.

These fun stamps and cardstock are from Clear & Simple. I used two stamp sets. Icons I and abc123. The pattern papers are from Crate Paper.

Papertrey November blOg hOp Challenge

2010-11-25T20:08:00.000-05:00

I've been anxious to use my little turkey die from Papertrey Ink and it's matching stamp set, Gobble, Gobble!

Today PTI put up a challenge to make holiday tags so I did just that! Turkey Day is the perfect excuse to break out this die, stamp set, felt and label die (also PTI)!

Happy Turkey Day all!

Caardvarks Challenge with MFT

2010-11-20T08:04:00.000-05:00

Check out the new challenge at Caardvarks . . . . create a gift card holder.

WaltzingMouse Tag Challenge #2

2010-11-05T19:27:00.000-04:00

WaltzingMouse Tag-Your-It Challenge

For the tag I decided to make the base with the border image from WaltzingMouse Stamps Vintage Labels 5 set and then paired it with one of the sentiments from the Peace & Plenty set. The image in the background is a rub on from Marah Johnson. The square bag and die cut snowflakes are from Creative Cuts & More.

Thanks for stopping by.

WaltzingMouse Tag Challenge

2010-11-05T17:34:00.001-04:00

WaltzingMouse Tag-Your-It Challenge

For the tag I decided to make the base with the cathedral image from WaltzingMouse Stamps Midnight Feast set and then paired it with one of the sentiments from the Peace & Plenty set. The sweet little Angel image is from Stampington & Co. The cupcake box is from Creative Cuts & More.

Thanks for stopping by.

Caardvarks Challenge with Creative Cuts & More

2010-11-05T09:31:00.001-04:00

THE CHALLENGE:
Create a new holiday card using die cuts and add to Mr. Linky at Caardvarks.

THE PRIZE:
Creative Cuts & More's Christmas Card Kit with Stamps. This kit currently sells for $29.99 and is jam-packed with supplies. It contains 12 die cut cards and envelopes. Many of the cards included in the kit are exclusive to CC&M. The kit is worth over $40 but CC&M is offering it for only $29.99.

Today I wanted to show you the Tuck & Close Bag XL from Creative Cuts & More. I used some white glitter paper as the snow and stamp a cute image from My Favorite Things. I simply color it in with Copic markers and cut it out.

Head on over to Caardvarks for the challenge details!!

Halloween Treat Box

2010-11-03T15:15:00.000-04:00

This super cute square green box is from Creative Cuts & More and the stamps are from Clear & Simple Stamps! Can you stand it? I just love how this box turned out!

WaltzingMouse Challenge #20

2010-10-28T19:44:00.000-04:00

It's this a super cute card?

I used a big Sizzix Label die as the base. These stamps are from WaltzingMouse Stamps Peace & Plenty stamp set. I really like the fonts in the sentiment!

Challenge: WaltzingMouse Sketch Challenge #20

Caardvarks Challenge with Penny Black

2010-10-20T10:06:00.001-04:00

Are you up for the next Caardvarks challenge?
You will be when you hear about this . . .

THE SPONSOR
Penny Black

THE PRIZES
Penny Black stamps from their NEW RELEASES.
There will be 3 winners!!!

THE CHALLENGE
Create a new stamped card that is decorated inside and out! We'd like to see what you can on the inside panel of your card, as well as the outside.

THE DEADLINE
Enter your card via Mr. Linky at the bottom of this post by November 3rd at Midnight, PST. Please be sure to look over our RULES before linking your entry.

To be eligible for a prize, please visit the PENNY BLACK BLOG and "join the club". In just a few clicks you'll be signed up to receive advance notifications of new releases and Penny Black news.

The first Penny Black stamp I fell in love with is it's a time to be jolly.
I think this image is stunning . . . .

it's a time to be jolly

Product No: 3987K

_______________________

Then I had to have this cool sentiment. I love the fonts and the layout of the stamp.

...blessings

Product No: 3531F

_______________________

Head on over to Caardvarks for the challenge details!!

Birthday Goodie Bar

2010-10-14T20:56:00.001-04:00

What's a party without a paper cake?

My little pumpkin turned three this week!

Fall is here . . . .

2010-10-10T03:00:00.001-04:00

I miss you already sweet summer . . . .

Head over to Caardvarks for the latest and greatest challenge! SRM Stickers is the sponsor and they have a FABULOUS prize pack up for grabs!! You don't want to miss out!

THE CHALLENGE
Create a card based upon one of the Crew Caards on this post. Create your best, NEW scraplift card and by November 18th at Midnight, PST. Be sure to let us know which card you lifted, in your blog post!

I used one of their stickers here. Isn't it perfection? I used my old oval SU! punch. It's a perfect match!

I mixed up a little SU! and PTI..... love it, love it all!!

The butterfly is a die from SU! along with the pattern paper. And the scallops are a die from PTI as well as the blue pattern paper and the scrumptious little button! There are two things on this card that were headed for the trash. Can you guess what they are?

The cream linen rectangle with rounded corners is left over from a big print job at my local print shop. I have a ton of these. I use them all the time!!! The other thing that was headed for the trash is the wide, cream ribbon. It was wrapped around the curtains I got at Pottery Barn. You simply can not throw away good ribbon. I covered up the PB text on the ribbon. I normally let it show. It think it's cool either way!

Thanks for stopping by!

More Caardvarks & SRM Stickers!!!

2010-10-07T21:39:00.003-04:00

Check out Caardvarks latest challenge and play along for an amazing Prize Pack from SRM Stickers!! I used two here!

This adorable stamp is from The Greeting Farm. I just LOVE this image!

I finally jumped aboard the Copics Cho-Cho Train and I am loving it!

I get my Copics from Clear & Simple Stamps.

I totally dig how SRM Stickers work seamlessly with pattern papers and stamps!! You can see a ton of amazing samples on their blog and in their gallery!

Thanks for stopping by!!

Caardvarks Challenge with SRM Stickers

2010-10-05T03:00:00.002-04:00

Head over to Caardvarks for the latest and greatest challenge! SRM Stickers is the sponsor and they have a FABULOUS prize pack up for grabs!! You don't want to miss out!

Inside.

THE CHALLENGE
Create a card based upon one of the Crew Caards on this post. Create your best, NEW scraplift card and by November 18th at Midnight, PST. Be sure to let us know which card you lifted, in your blog post!

Thanks for stopping by!!

World Card Making Day Challenge #1

2010-10-02T12:06:00.000-04:00

This Challenge Sketch is from Creating with Christina.

Holiday Card Challenge

2010-09-30T14:38:00.001-04:00

Countdown to World Cardmaking Day Challenge from Betsy Veldman.

I chose to re-create a holiday card from a Mother's Day card on

page 92 in Card Creations magazine Vol. 8.

I made 3 sets of three . . . .

All of the papers here are from Crate Paper.

Cute holiday collection, right?

The sentiment stamps are from PTI

and the snowflake stamp is from CTMH.

This is a good head start for getting those holiday cards done on time!

Cute Halloween Card

2010-09-27T18:53:00.001-04:00

Have you seen the latest sketch challenge at the Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge blog? I think it is very cool. I might just make a few more versions of the sketch.

And the challenge at Pile It On? They encourage you to incorporate in more than one challenge. Cute & Charming is the latest challenge.

Talk about clean & simple right?

Using the Midnight Feast set from Waltzingmouse Stamps, I simply stamped the bats directly on the card base in three rows to mimic the sketch. SO FUN!!

Inside.

Perfect Pair 2-day Blog Hop

2010-09-22T08:00:00.005-04:00

Welcome to DAY 2 of the
Perfect Pair 2-day Blog Hop.

Creative Cuts & More has paired up with Clear & Simple Stamps to bring you two days of amazing inspiration and prizes! We challenged both design teams to pair up die cuts from Creative Cuts & More and stamp sets from Clear & Simple Stamps. A match made in Heaven!

The Prizes

There are 2 prizes up for grabs today. Two lucky people will win either a $25 Gift Certificate from Clear & Simple Stamps or a $25 Gift Certificate from Creative Cuts & More. Your chances to win end Friday, 11:59pm EST. Winner will be announced on Saturday. Thanks for stopping by and good luck!

I have two projects for you today. The first project is the Circle Window A2 Card with Mat.

The stamp set I used is one of my favorites from Clear & Simple Stamps, ABC123.

I ordered this Apple #01 small in chipboard, as well as, red and green cardstock to make this delicious, layered embellishment. I think I used every stamp in this set!!

I stamped the apple on yellow paper then colored it in a bit with Copics. The house image is from another Clear & Simple Stamps set, Home. Isn't it just darling?

The more you stamp on the inside the less you have to write. Am I right? ;) I think the staples are a nice touch.

Now on to the second project . . . .

Every teacher deserves not only a beautiful handmade card but a gift box to match. This is the Apple Window Square Box #01 from Creative Cuts & More.

I made the banner with three Triangle #01 petites. I love the look of the graphic crayon stamp in the background and the pop of yellow on top.

I stamped the alphabet repeatedly from the ABC123 set and distressed the edges of the box with ink and a sponge. Even the button is from Clear & Simple Stamps!

Inside is a special keepsake for teacher. It's a magnet made from the same chipboard apple I used on the card. Below you can see the magnet in action.

These die cuts and stamps are truly the Perfect Pair!! Leave some love for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate!!

Your next stop is Jen Tapler!

Thanks for stopping by and good luck!

Links:
Circle Window A2 Card with Mat
Apple #01 small
Apple Window Square Box #01
Triangle #01 petite

ABC123 stamp set
Home stamp set

My Favorite Things Challenge

2010-09-21T21:17:00.000-04:00

Challenge: Super Star! from My Favorite Things blog.

Wyatt from My Favorite Things Stamps set, Wyatt and his Wagon. Isn't he a cutie. He looks like my son, Jacob.

Sticker sentiment from SRM Stickers.

Rub-on stars and borders from Stampin' Up! (Retired).

Caardvarks with sponsor Hero Arts

2010-09-20T00:00:00.003-04:00

Caardvarks has a new challenge up!! Hero Arts is our sponsor and you are gonna love what the Crew has in store for you today.

THE CHALLENGE: Create a *NEW* Clean & Simple stamped card.

THE DEADLINE: October 3rd at Midnight, PST.

THE PRIZE: Hero Arts is giving away the following stamps to the winner of our challenge -- Wreath of Leaves Cling Stamp, Merry Christmas Trees PolyClear Stamp Set, and Fabulous Flourish Woodblock Stamp.

The Crews challenge was to make Clean & Simple cards with our Hero Arts PolyClear Stamps. Here is one set of mine . . . .

Isn't she a beauty?

I made a half dozen cards from one sheet of Kraft cardstock, 6 card bases and my sewing machine.

I ran the Kraft cardstock through my sewing machine three times in a random waving pattern then cut the sheet in half at 4-1/4". Then cut the stitched half into thirds. I did the same with the other half after I ran it through my sewing machine.

They all have the same Clean & Simple feel, I just changed up the placement of the Hero Arts snowflake stamps and the sentiment.

Hero Arts also has a line called Hero Hues. One part of this line are these pretty little gems that just go perfectly with the snowflakes. Clean & Simple right?! 6 Christmas cards down, 94 to go. ;)

Head on over to Caardvarks for the challenge details!!

Here's the rest of the Crew Jenyfur Pohl, Nathalia Castellon, Heidi Van Laar, Tanis Giesbrecht, Amy Crockett, Ashley Cannon Newell, Eva Dobilas, Lucy Abrams, Mel McCarthy, Michelle Giraud, Kelly Rasmussen, and Peet Roeven.

Hero Arts Supplies:
Wishes Come True Stamp Set
Magic of Christmas Stamp Set
Self-Adhesive Diamond Gems

Awareness Blog Hop

2010-09-15T07:00:00.005-04:00

Welcome Blog Hoppers!!!
Are you ready to kickoff
Creative Cuts & More's
September Awareness Blog Hop?!!
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
{if this is your first stop along the hop please START HERE}
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Creative Cuts & More challenged the Design Team to

bring awareness to our readers through our crafts....

ARE YOU READY FOR THIS?

First, I want to showcase the Awareness Window Card from Creative Cuts & More. It is cut from Curious Metallic Cardstock: Cryogen White. This cardstock has a shimmering surface and a luminescent sheen of metal. It is so subtle, yet magical, in this white color.

You can even stamp on it. I used Staz-on black ink. The stamp is from Midnight Feast from Waltzingmouse stamps. I thought it wouldn't hurt to tell a bit of truth about how most people feel about cancer. Cancer BITES!

Here's a sweet, shimmering 2-piece gift set filled with Smarties candies.

The inside of the card is made up of a few scrap papers from Papertrey Ink. I stitched the pattern paper for a nice finished look. Really, I just am enjoying using my sewing machine!
Until the bobbin breaks.... I won't know what to do after that! ;)

Now for the Awareness Window Square Box...

You'd think this box was filled with buttons. Oh no, not from me, I am not giving up any buttons, I don't care how bad it bites. ;)

Here is how I did it... I cut some paper to fit inside the lid of the box (4.25 x 4.25) and ran it though my Xyron adding adhesive to one side. I then arranged the buttons UPSIDE DOWN in the shape of the ribbon and picked them up using the adhesive sheet I just made. Then, I simply attached it to the inside of the lid (you know, the whole sheet was sticky, too easy!!). Cool right?

Like the song goes . . . Love STINKS! Maybe someone will make a song out of this Cancer BITES phrase. Cancer BITES, so bite back! What do you think? Is it a hit? Maybe a one hit wonder, at least?!

I also cut a square of paper to fit the bottom of the box and stitched along the edges before adhering it to the bottom of the box.

Just a little ribbon along the box's edge and a simple bow, too easy right!?
You can get the awareness ribbon window shape in an album cover as well.
Check it out, HERE.

Your next stop along the hop is Chrissy.

Thanks for stopping by and be sure to leave some love along the way!!

The Playdate Cafe Challenge

2010-09-09T03:00:00.003-04:00

Creative Cuts & More is sponsoring
The Playdate Cafe this week.

Check out the lastest Color Splash challenge.

Deadline is 11:59pm EST on Tuesday

Since Creative Cuts & More is the sponsor
I just had to use this Box with Handle.
I ordered it in FROSTED Acetate!!

And since the challenge is Color Splash, I decided I better splash some Glimmer Mist all over the box.

Stop by The Playdate Cafe and play along. One lucky person will win The Christmas Card Kit from Creative Cuts & More.

Thanks for stopping by!

Thank You Card

2010-09-07T03:00:00.002-04:00

Just a pretty card using some old Basic Grey and Pink Paislee chipboard stickers. I made this for a dear friend that came through for me and my family in a time in need. We often don't think we need help, but we all really do from time to time. She always keeps my cards too. I love that. And since I didn't have to put it in an envelope I made a bow instead of just a knot.

The sentiment is from Papertrey Ink.

Thanks for stopping by!

Caardvarks Challenge with Tiffany Doodles

2010-09-05T03:00:00.004-04:00

First, let me inform you that Caardvarks is returning to two (2) challenges per month. We took a bit of a break over the summer. Be sure to check in on the 5th and 20th of each month.

Tiffany Doodles is sponsoring Caardvarks latest challenge.

THE LATEST CHALLENGE:
Create a NEW card based upon ONE of the following SKETCHES.
Link your NEW card via Mr. Linky at Caardvarks.
There is an A2 sized sketch as well as a
scrapling for you to choose from.

This challenge will run until September 12th at Midnight, PST.

Sketch by Heidi Van Laar

For the first sketch I used Tiffany Doodles' Daliah with Oval digi.

Isn't she lovely? I tried out my blue and green Copics and used watercolor pencils with a blender pen to color the blooms. So fun!

You gotta love the wonky stitch job. I am enjoying experimenting with my sewing machine too. I love the way the flower image looks cut out. Next time I will print two or three and layer up the blooms. That will be stunning!

Here's another sketch to try. It's a scrapling sketch.

Sketch by Heidi Van Laar

I used this sketch to create a bookmark. Now I want to make a dozen with all my little scraps! For the bookmark I used the gorgeous digi stamp named Forsythia & Pussy Willows from Tiffany Doodles. The stitching plays a big part in the sketch design, do you see the sketch here?

Here I just used watercolor pencils with a blender pen. Click on the photo to see the blue hue behind the stems. I just need to figure out how to get the same affect with my Copics!!

OK, is this not an awesome bookmark! I so need to make a dozen more of these!!

So head over to Caardvarks to see the rest of the Crew's Challenge projects and join in on the fun for a change to win free digi stamps from Tiffany Doodles!

THE PRIZES:
1st Place: 10 stamps from TiffanyDoodles, sets or singles, your choice!
2nd Place: 7 stamps from TiffanyDoodles
3rd Place: 5 stamps from TiffanyDoodles

Just one stamp . . . .

2010-09-03T03:00:00.001-04:00

Isn't this image lovely? It's from Stampington & Company. These are the first types of stamps I ever bought and I still love them. I stamped the image using two colors of ink on this 4.25 x 5.5 embossed panel card. I got a damaged box of panel cards for FREE from the print shop where I used to work.

Thanks for stopping by!

Nightmarish NIBBLES

2010-09-02T20:24:00.000-04:00

There's a new Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge. I just had to use the coffin box from Creative Cuts & More. It's so easy to assemble and a ton of fun to decorate.

I used Waltzingmouse's Midnight Feast set along with their Vintage Circle set. I paired them up with a single pumpkin from Clear & Simple Stamps Pumpkin Patch set. Love them all!

Thanks for stopping by!

Sneak Peeks

2010-09-01T03:00:00.000-04:00

Wednesday, September 15th be sure to

check out the Cancer Awareness Blog Hop

at the Creative Cuts & More blog, Diecut Diva.

Here's a little sneak peek . . . .

________________________________________

Also, there's another amazing and huge blog hop

filled with prizes, I might add, on Tuesday and Wednesday,

September 21st and 22nd called the

Perfect Pair 2-day Blog Hop.

Creative Cuts & More has paired up with the fabulous

Clear & Simple Stamps design team for this special 2-day blog hop!!

Here's a sneak peek . . . .

Hope to see you here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Feel free to grab these badges, that I personally made,

so you don't forget to pop in. Help us spread the word!

Thanks for stopping by!

My Favorite Things Challenge

2010-08-31T21:42:00.000-04:00

My Favorite Things Floral Frenzy Challenge

I used my seemingly favorite line of paper, Earth Love by Cosmo Cricket. I like making the lollipop into a flower with this big Pink Paislee brad. Maybe next time I'll use a button. That would be cute too.

Thanks for stopping by!

Just Us Girls sponsored by Clear & Simple Stamps

2010-08-28T13:59:00.000-04:00

This week Clear & Simple Stamps is sponsoring

Jugs Template Challenge #48

I used the Seed Packet Template from Clear & Simple Stamps. You can find it on their blog HERE on the side bar. All of their templates are FREE!!

I used Clear & Simple's Pumpkin Patch set. It has these great vines and pumpkins. And I love the fonts that were used for the sentiments!!!

How fun is this set????

I just loved layering the cut out pumpkins and twine.

I also used the Kind Deeds set the decorate the background of both sides of the seed packet.

Aren't those pumpkins to die for! I think they are so fun even when you don't color them in. I love the graphic feel it gives the flap.

Join us over at Just Us Girls with your template projects

for a chance to win some Clear & Simple Stamps!

Sketch Challenge

2010-08-26T06:00:00.001-04:00

Are you in the mood for a little spook?!
Waltzingmouse has these great new Halloween stamps that are a must have!!
I paired up the Midnight Feast set with the Vintage Circles Small set.

This card is based on this sketch Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge #11.
I used my sewing machine to attach the deep orange ribbon. I never sew but now I am addicted! Stop by to see more projects done with stitching!!

Thanks for stopping by!

Inspired by the movie Up....

2010-08-25T21:04:00.000-04:00

Isn't this little house darling?
It's from Clear & Simple Stamps!

House & Sentiment: Home
Numbers: ABC...123

I have been experimenting with
my sewing machine lately. And it's surprisingly fun!!

Check out Embellish Magazine's latest challenge. I made a few cards with this pretty color combo. You must try it!!

iPhone App Sneak Peek

2010-08-25T20:21:00.000-04:00

Sticker Stash

2010-08-18T18:46:00.000-04:00

I have been neglecting my sticker stash lately.

Here's a cool get well card using

SRM Stickers.

I cut the band aid card with my Cricut.

I've been neglecting that too!

Thanks for stopping by!

Waltzingmouse Template

2010-08-15T22:24:00.001-04:00

I couldn't resist Waltzingmouses template competition!!

I chose the Waltzingmouse Gingerbread House template

to use with my new set from them called . . . .

. . . . Midnight Feast

I love how the bats look inside this spooky temple.

I so love all the circle stamps in this set.

They make the best tags!

Wish me luck!

Check out the competition HERE!

My Favorite Things Challenge

2010-08-15T03:00:00.000-04:00

MFT has a fun challenge going on right now.

Cupcakes Anyone?

I've had this awesome die cut Cupcake card from Creative Cuts & More for a while now.

This challenge motivated me to finally decorate it!

I used My Favorite Things Lollipop Girl from the Pure Innocence line. Isn't she adorable. The whole line of Pure Innocence stamps are to die for!
I want them all!

I used SU! outline stamps to stamp 'happy'.

There is a lollipop under that super cute brad.

I colored the image with SU! watercolor pencils and a blender marker.

Here is my new favorite product.... ribbon tape!

It's perfect for wrapping around boxes too!

Summer Games!

2010-08-14T18:44:00.000-04:00

No summer game is complete without a winner's badge!

I made these for our nearly-annual Family Summer Reunion.

My sister organized all kinds of fun games for us

and I made these for the winners.

Here's a little HOW TO:

Cut 12 x 12 paper into 1.5 inches strips.

Accordion fold each strip.

Glue ends together to form a circle.

Cut a circle smaller than your accordion flower.

Add Elmer's Glue or hot glue to the circle.

Press and hold.

Then decorate!!!

See all the stamp sets I used below . . . .

I used this awesome Alpha Block 1 set from

Clear & Simple Stamps . . . .

and the circles from this set

CIRCUS FUN

and the sentiment 'you're the best' from this set

KIND DEEDS

Thanks for stopping by!

Wanna win a paper cake?

2010-08-11T08:00:00.004-04:00

Welcome Blog Hoppers!!!
Are you ready to kickoff
Creative Cuts & More's
August Blog Hop?!!
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
{if this is your first stop along the hop please start here}
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Creative Cuts & More challenged the Design Team to

make Baby or Bridal Shower ensembles....

ARE YOU READY FOR THIS?

..............................................................

Creative Cuts & More is giving away a

Two Tier Cake Slice Box Set to one lucky winner,

so be sure to leave some love along the way!

Of course, I chose to make a baby shower ensemble!

I love all things baby.

This ensemble includes 14 Square Box #01s filled with yummy take home goodies for your guests, topped with a sweet Baby Shoe, one simply decorated Square Bag #01 Large for the big game winner, and a simple coordinating banner made from 10 Tag #02 Large to tie it all together!

The colors I used were Lime Crush, Lakeshore, Yam and Java.

Let's start with the cake.

This cake was so easy to put together. I used some killer red tacky tape to assemble the Square Boxes then simply wrapped them in coordinating ribbon.

On to the Baby Shoe.

I lined the bottom of the shoe with a thin coordinating ribbon using hot glue. I folded the ribbon as I glued to give it a bit more interest then added a simple brad to close the shoe.

Ohhh, and the Square Bag!

If you know this blog, you know I am fond of this bag. I use it as often as possible, it's only $0.75!! I simply wrapped it in the same ribbon that I used on the cake and embellished it with a pretty flower.

Now for that simple banner....

As you can see here I just turned the Tags upside down and stapled them together. So easy. No need to spend time and money on embellishments for the banner. The Tags speak for themselves.

The total cost of this little

party ensemble was

approx. $19!!

AWESOME!!!!!!!

Next up along the HOP....

Chris Dickinson

Stop by tomorrow!!

2010-08-10T16:43:00.000-04:00

Caardvarks July Challenge

2010-07-30T03:00:00.000-04:00

It's still not to late to join

this month's challenge over at Caardvarks

Our sponsor this month is My Favorite Things!!!

THE CHALLENGE
My Favorite Things is celebrating their fourth birthday this month!

Please create a *NEW* birthday card

and enter a link to it via Mr. Linky

at Caardvarks .

Entries will be accepted through the end of the month.

THE PRIZE
A $25 Gift Certificat to My Favorite Things.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Meet Jolinne, from the set Fairy Sweet Jolinne

I used a glitter pen to accent her hair, shoes and clothing.

Since it's My Favorite Things birthday I just had to make a birthday ensemble!

I love this matching pillow box!! This die is from SU!

Now head on over to Caardvarks to see more projects made with My Favorite Things stamps and learn how to win a sweet prize!

Thanks for stopping by!

Caardvarks July Challenge

2010-07-28T09:46:00.001-04:00

It's not too late to join

this month's challenge over at Caardvarks

Our sponsor this month is My Favorite Things!!!

THE CHALLENGE
My Favorite Things is celebrating their fourth birthday this month!

Please create a *NEW* birthday card

and enter a link to it via Mr. Linky

at Caardvarks .

Entries will be accepted through the end of the month.

THE PRIZE
A $25 Gift Certificat to My Favorite Things.

Isn't this little girl stamp the cutest?

She is from the Pure Innocence Collection.

She is actually holding a big lollipop but I just had to make this handmade flower. Instead of coloring her clothes I paper pieced them buy stamping the image on different pattern papers. I used Cosmo Cricket's Earth Love papers.

The background is the Lattice die from SU! I rubbed a little glue on it and sprinkled on some Martha Stewart glitter. So fun!

Head over to Caardvarks to see more projects made with

My Favorite Things stamps and learn how to win a sweet prize!

Thanks for stopping by!

Stylish Things...

2010-07-17T08:03:00.000-04:00

I have special treat for you today.

It's not a card, it's not even a box.

I ordered a boat load of felt flowers from

Creative Cuts & More and made

STYLISH pins with them.

I wear one on my shirt, real original, right!? But you could pin one to your bag or purse. I will show you how I made the leaves and the butterfly from a flower.

Here I used the Flower #6 set in Navy Blue Felt.
I coiled up some green yarn, added some twine and
stitched it all together with a button.

For the leaves, I cut away two petals from
a medium Flower #6 (in Olive Felt) and hot glued
the petals and the pin to the back of the flowers.

These pins were FREE,
they were headed for the trash at my old job.

That was well over 4 yrs ago but I knew
I'd find a good use for them! ;)

Next is the butterfly pin made from
Orange Spice Felt flowers.

Isn't it DARLING!?

This time I simply cut off one petal, layered two sizes onto one another with hot glue, a button and a little sprig of fancy wire. Too easy! Just be careful with the hot glue gun, it gets supa, supa HOT! ;)

So, there you have it,

a little trio of cuties to keep or share

with your most stylish friends!

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I made way more than three, BTW.

I ordered some extra felt sheets from Creative Cuts & More in all the same colors I ordered the flowers in... Navy Blue, Olive, Fuchsia, Orange Spice and cut even more flowers and butterflies with my own dies.

I love how these rose topped butterflies turned out. I think the colors SHINE together and it was fun using a paper flower technique with felt and a hot glue gun!

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So what Stylish Things are you working on these days? I'd love to hear what you are doing with your die cuts that are a little unexpected. Leave us a link so we can check it out.

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Thanks for stopping by!

2010-07-15T14:45:00.000-04:00

Clear & Simple Stamps debuts a new stamp set

every month along with a new color family.

This month's (SOTM) Stamp of the Month is

Circus Fun and the new color is V.I.P. Purple.

Here are a few sneak peeks....

You can find matching cardstock,

ink pads, ribbon, buttons and even

Copic markers in the

Simple Notions section of the store...

Clear & Simple Stamps

_______________________________

Thanks for stopping by!

Creative Cuts & More July BLOG HOP!!!

2010-07-12T08:00:00.058-04:00

.......................

Hey BLOG HOPPERS....

If this is your first stop along the way

please start at the beginning, HERE.

.......................

Creative Cuts & More is giving away a

Christmas Card Kit to one lucky winner,

so be sure to leave some love along the way!

I used the Crayon Box as a Get Well tissue box.

My kiddo has a runny nose today,

so I know he'll enjoy carrying this around.

I adorned the cute little box with some leftover scraps from last Christmas and this awesome Gingerbread Man cut from felt. Yes, Creative Cuts & More can cut most shapes out of felt... or velvet or even acetate!

"Bless you!"

I used the Achoo! sentiment from Clear & Simple's Bear Well set.

I really like the font used in this sentiment!

Your next stop along the

Christmas in July Blog Hop

is BECKY.

Use this coupon code at Creative Cuts & More,
it's good through July 18th!

Got an iPhone?

2010-07-11T14:37:00.000-04:00

OHHH, good news folks.
My card sample will be featured tomorrow, Monday July 12th on the new Clear & Simple Stamps iPhone App. It's an APP that sends you papercrafting inspiration everyday!!!!
It's the first APP of it's kind!

And did you know you can send in your submissions to be featured as well?
Check it out, click on the photo to read more...

Blog Hop event on Monday...

2010-07-10T16:19:00.000-04:00

See you on Monday!!!

Color Throwdown #100

2010-07-07T03:00:00.003-04:00

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The Color Throwdown Challenge Blog

is celebrating their

100th challenge today.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Here's my take . . . .

Stamps: Clear & Simple Stamps 'summertime'

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Make your Color Throwdown Challenge

project and link it to their Blog

and for a chance to win
start commenting... the more blogs you comment on,
the more chances you have to win!!

Caardvarks July Challenge

2010-07-05T03:00:00.007-04:00

This month's challenge over at Caardvarks

is sponsored by My Favorite Things!!!

Instead of coloring in the image from Bath Time Mini Set

I decided to paper piece it together.

Too fun!

I used different size adhesive pearls as the bubbles!

Click on the image below for a closer look.

This image fits perfectly in the opening of this

pre-cut oval window box from Creative Cuts & More.

Inside is an assortment of must haves all

sweetly decorated to match the box.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Head over to Caardvarks to see more projects made with

My Favorite Things stamps and learn how to win a sweet prize!

Thanks for stopping by!

Steph Zerbe Design

Valentine's Day Felt Bag

Make It Monday #47

Make It Monday #47: a la carte

I thought Make It Monday #46: Any Die into a Folded Tag looked like a good challenge. I used my new favorite PTI set and dies.... Truckin' It.

Traffic Jam. lol

Thanks for stopping by,steph

Traffic Jam Gift Tags: • stamps: PTI Boy Basics: Truckin' It • ink: Clear & Simple Stamps Perfect Little Black Dress • cardstock: Clear & Simple Stamps A Blanc Check • other: PTI Truckin' It Die, Copics, Clear & Simple Stamps Twine

CSS Release Day

Sneak Peeks Day 3: congrats card

Sneak Peeks Day 2: valentine cards

Sneak Peek Day 1: valentine cards

GRAD

Boy Thank You

LOVE many things...

Caramel Apples

and the winner is...

Thanks so much Card

Holiday Tags

MFT Sketch Challenge

Art Supplies Card

Thanksgiving

Tag-tastic

Let's get our craft on!

Clear & Simple Stamps Nov Release

Just Add Color Challenge

Week 2: Behind the Scenes

Crafty Card Sketch Group Challenge

Week 1: Behind the scenes with yours truly

Special Announcement

Baby Reveal Party

Any golfers out there?

Simple Background

Featured Stamp Set: Alpha Varsity

Jewelry Tags and Wedding Attendants' Favor Bags

Baby Cards

Dinner invite

Our Baby Girl is Born

How to: Sheer Flowers

Wedding Invite

Home Decor Wreath

We're having a baby!!

Surprise Birthday Blog Hop

Prize

Coupon

Special Announcement

Be Mine

Get Well Card

Dear Santa

Another oldie but goodie!

Gift Box

Caardvarks Challenge with Clear & Simple Stamps

When is teacher appreciation day?

Papertrey November blOg hOp Challenge

Caardvarks Challenge with MFT

WaltzingMouse Tag Challenge #2

WaltzingMouse Tag Challenge

Caardvarks Challenge with Creative Cuts & More

Halloween Treat Box

WaltzingMouse Challenge #20

Caardvarks Challenge with Penny Black

Birthday Goodie Bar

Fall is here . . . .

More Caardvarks & SRM Stickers!!!

Caardvarks Challenge with SRM Stickers

World Card Making Day Challenge #1

Holiday Card Challenge

Cute Halloween Card

Perfect Pair 2-day Blog Hop

My Favorite Things Challenge

Caardvarks with sponsor Hero Arts

Awareness Blog Hop

The Playdate Cafe Challenge

Thank You Card

Caardvarks Challenge with Tiffany Doodles

Just one stamp . . . .

Nightmarish NIBBLES

Sneak Peeks

My Favorite Things Challenge

Just Us Girls sponsored by Clear & Simple Stamps

Thanks for stopping by,
steph

Traffic Jam Gift Tags:

• stamps: PTI Boy Basics: Truckin' It

• ink: Clear & Simple Stamps Perfect Little Black Dress

• cardstock: Clear & Simple Stamps A Blanc Check

• other: PTI Truckin' It Die, Copics, Clear & Simple Stamps Twine