Milk & Cookies - CSS Party Hop

You can find my Play Date Cafe post HERE.

Welcome to a sweet celebration!  Today I'm partying with Clear & Simple Stamps for their Collection 2 Party Hop.  I chose to host a Milk & Cookies baby shower, and I am so excited to share the fun invitation and coordinating goodies with you.

A great party needs a fabulous invitation and the Party Elements : Baby stamp set is perfect for putting together a polished invite.  I created a long invitation and added a belly band with the cute cow from Sweet Dreams.  The curly frame is one of my favorite images from Party Elements : Baby and it also coordinates with the Mini Tri-Fold 1 die-cuts.

It's easy to whip up labels for individual milk bottles using adhesive sheets. The "Let's Celebrate" and "Thank You for Coming" are both from Party Elements : Baby... the set is packed with great sentiments that can take you from invitations to thank you notes.  My party favor is a bottle of Milk Duds and cookies wrapped in treat bags.

Tip: The Starbucks frappuccinos that you can buy at the grocery store are the perfect size for individual servings of milk at the shower and for packaging favors.  They are perfectly reminiscent of old-fashioned glass milk containers.

I wanted to share a few more Cookies & Milk party ideas... I really love this theme and hope you are inspired!

• Create wraps for milk chocolate bars... use as cute decorations around your cookie bar and as favors.
• Use "chalkboard" labels on your milk bottles for guests so they can label their drinks.
• If any young children are attending the party, have a cookie decorating station to keep them busy and happy.
• Hang cookie cutters from ribbon across the mantel or above the cookie bar for decoration.
• Consider "Cookies in a Jar" from Bakerella.

Don't miss any of the fabulous party ideas that the Clear & Simple gals are sharing today.  

Here's a list for our Party Hop:

Kim Duran

Laura Bassen

Lori Tecler

Stephany Zerbe

Jaclyn Miller

Tracy Schultz

Dana Grothaus

Laurie Willison

Jennifer Rzasa

CSS Blog

Please Note: One of my projects is also featured on the 

CSS Daily App for iPhone and iPad users today, April 5th.

ALL Supplies are CSS unless otherwise noted.

Stamps - Party Elements : Baby, Sweet Dreams, Alpha Classic
Paper - On the Catwalk Cream & I'm a Princess Pink; My Mind's Eye - Paris & Co. 6x6
Tools: Mini Tri-Fold 1 die-cuts, Border : RicRac / Pinking die-cuts, Tags 1 die-cuts, MFT Fishtail Banner die-namics

Ribbon Blossoms

Our wonderful week of ribbon continues at Sassy Stampin' with Ribbon Blossoms. Earlier in the week I demonstrated how to create Ribbon Ruffles using Double-Stitched ribbon. Today, we are going to use the same technique to make sassy blossoms. Need a review of the Ribbon Ruffle technique? Click here.

Cut your ribbon to 12-16" in length. Pull the stitching from the same side on both ends - creating the 'scrunch'. The ribbon will naturally start to curve inward.

Be sure that the entire length of ribbon has a tight scrunch. Then, using the excess thread that you pulled, tie a tight knot. (similar to bow tying - but just a knot) You should have a 'donut'. Trim the excess thread. You may also want to tuck your ends for a neater presentation. I do this by simply creating a little fold and tacking it with a few Mini Glue Dots. (my fingers get in the way if I try to photo it ;) TIP: You can gently shape your flower but too much tugging may result in pulling out the knot.

More card details:

• The inspiration for my layout today comes from Our Creative Corner's sketch challenge as well as The Pink Elephant challenge. For Pink Elephant we had to use: 2 squares, 1 ribbon, and something shiny. Check, check, and check!

• My Melon Mambo card base is 5.5" square and is layered with Rich Razzleberry as well as Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper. To separate the 2 prints I added a scallop edge.

• The main panel is Rich Razzleberry with a slim matte of Crushed Curry. The Razzleberry was textured using an embossing folder.

• The leaves are from the Central Park stamp set. A pair of super sharp scissors are a necessity when you're doing detailed trimming. Paper Snips are my favorite go-to. TIP: If you ever get 'gunk' on your scissors from adhesive, you can use nail polish remover to clean them.

• A combination of Mini and Pop-Up Glue Dots were used to adhere my flower layers and So Saffron button. I really nestled the button down into the center section to encourage the ribbon to 'poof' up.
  

• The 'thank you' sentiment with butterfly from Oval All seemed perfect for this blossoming beauty. I snipped it out and framed it with Hodgepodge Hardware for extra sass. (and something shiny)

Ready to make your own Ribbon Blossoms?
Take advantage of my exclusive Ribbon Promotion.
CLICK HERE for all the details.

Sassy Stampers:
ORDER ONLINE 24/7

Stamps: Central Park (113732), Oval All (113790)
Paper: Melon Mambo (115320), Rich Razzleberry (115316), Crushed Curry (115319), Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series (115675)
Ink: Chocolate Chip (100908), Old Olive (102277)
Tools: Paper Snips (103579), Swiss Dots Embossing Folder, Apron Lace Punch
Must-Haves: Mini (103683) and Pop-Up Glue Dots (104183)
Sassy Somethings: Rose Red (111846) and Chocolate Chip (111849) Double-Stitched Ribbon, Hodgepodge Hardware - currently available in Styled Silver (111325) or Styled Vanilla (112454), Button Latte (114333)

The Perfect Bow

I've gotten several requests to demonstrate my bow making technique. This is one of the ways that I like to create bows - especially for cards that need to be mailed because the result isn't too "poofy".

Apply Sticky Strip where you plan for your ribbon to be placed. Here it is the 'seam' where the 2 patterns meet. Leave a small gap without adhesive. (see where I'm pointing) Remove the backing ONLY from the long piece of sticky strip and adhere your ribbon.

For the bow, cut a strip of ribbon and apply adhesive to one end. For a medium bow I used a 7" strip of 5/8" cream grosgrain. Next, adhere the two ends together and create a circle.

Grab your thread (baker's or button twine) and a sassy button.
Thread both ends through the button holes, keeping a loop of thread.

Slide your button loop onto your ribbon strip to the place where there is no adhesive. Also slide your ribbon circle into place. Tighten the thread (the middle should 'scrunch') and tie in a tight knot against the button. Remove the backing from the remaining Sticky Strip and tack your excess ribbon down - tucking the end over the edge for a clean and neat presentation. Trim your excess thread and 'voila!' - a sassy bow!

My snowy hills were made using the 1.75" Circle Punch and trimming them to line up with the bottom edge. A few halfback pearls accent the trees and are the perfect sassy something to finish up this simple card.

This Christmas cutie also meets the 'requirements for this week's Pile It On Challenge - Think Spots and Dots. It is based on the sketch that I found at Stamps and Smiles as well as a great example for this week's Practical Scrappers challenge. FOUR challenges - WOW!

I hope you'll play along with us at Color Throwdown this week - I can't wait to see what you create!

Ribbon Ruffles

Ready, set, run for your ribbon! This week we're going to learn some simple and sassy ways to dress up any project with ribbon. Today: Ruffles with Double-Stitched Ribbon.

When I learned this technique on Lisa Johnson's Poppy Paperie blog I was head over heels. I am so excited to re-create her tutorial using Stampin' Up! ribbon and supplies and to share it with you. I love the gathered look that this ribbon trick gives projects... it has a homespun feel that is just perfect for a special touch. Here's how to add this scrunched sweetness to your next project:

Start with a longer piece than you think you'll need - you 'lose' length from scrunching. For example: on my 4" square card, I started with a 16" piece of Rose Red Double-Stitched. Next, lift out the thread from ONE side of the ribbon. TIP: I do this on BOTH ends. Then, pulling the thread, I scrunch gently towards the middle.

Use Sticky Strip to adhere the ruffle to your card base. Wrap the ends, trim your excess, and tape the 'hangover' down. TIP: You want to be sure that you pull the thread out and secure it -- preventing the ruffle from unraveling. I used Sticky Strip again -- making it easy to peel the backing and adhere to my card base. You can also use something as simple as Scotch tape to make those ends stay put.

I made two cards to showcase this technique... both lovey-dovey themed. I was inspired by blog reader, Nadine, to create a few wedding cards. She specified that brown was not only her favorite color, but also part of the wedding's colors. I added the pinks... one of my favorite combinations. (and also the colors of my own wedding ;)

The large card (5" x 7") is inspired by Card Patterns Sketch 30 and has a bit of a vintage flair with Kraft card stock and distressed edges. The heart from Always was a perfect fit paired with the happiness sentiment from Heard From the Heart.

The smaller card (4" square) uses Thoroughly Modern Designer Series Paper and Eight Great Greetings stamp set. It's simple and straight forward - the Rose Red Double-Stitched ruffle really is the showstopper.

Tomorrow:
The Holiday Mini Catalog goes 'live'.
I'll have an exclusive Ribbon Promotion to go along with it.

Stamps: Always (113620), Heard From the Heart (111644), En Francais (109521), Eight Great Greetings (113822)
Paper: Chocolate Chip (102128). Kraft (102125), Rose Red (102544), Pretty in Pink(100459), Bella Bleu Designer Series (113974), Thoroughly Modern Designer Series (115673)
Ink: Chocolate Chip (100908), Ranger Tea Dye Distress Ink
Tools: 3/16" Corner Rounder (109047)
Must Haves: Sticky Strip (104294)
Sassy Somethings: Chocolate Chip Double-Stitched (111849), Rose Red Double-Stitched (111846), Sherbet Buttons (116312), Button Latte (114333), Chocolate Chip Corduroy Buttons (114339)

Sassy Gift Card Holder

Gift giving is something we all love to do. Gift cards are the perfect solution. Do you ever wish you could whip something cute up to hold that gift card?? I've got the perfect solution - and it's easy! But before we get into the tutorial - I'm giving away a SPECIAL $25 Stampin' Up! Gift Card to celebrate the NEW Idea Book and Catalog that arrives July 1st.

Have you entered to win?
CLICK HERE for details and a chance to win a
Sassy Stampin' shopping spree!

SUPPLIES:
Kraft Cardstock - 4.75" x 6"
Pink Pirouette Cardstock - 2 pieces
4.25" x 11"
2.75" x 4.5"
Candy Lane Designer Series Paper
1 measuring 2.5" x 4.25"
2 measuring 2.5" x 4"

• Score large piece of pink at: 2.75", 5.5", and 8.25"
• Fold into 'M' shape.
• Apply Stick Strip to the 2 outer panels. (as shown in photo - click picture to enlarge view) Do NOT remove 2nd piece of backing.
• Use SNAIL adhesive for 2 middle panels. TIP: It is important to use adhesive as close to the edges as possible. Sticky Strip is too wide.

• Fold your middle section together and press to adhere SNAIL sides together. TIP: If you feel you need extra strength you could also use a few Mini Glue Dots along the edge.

• Using the Big Shot and Top Note Die, position your fold onto the die. (I used the green cutout of the Top Note to help show proper placement - this is not part of your 'sandwich'.)

• Place cutting pad on top and run thru. Big Shot.

• Use Corner Rounder on Pink Pirouette to match the gift card holder's Kraft 'base'.

• Remove Sticky Strip backing and adhere to inside of folded Kraft. Your gift card pocket will pop up from the middle. SO cute!

• Add two pieces of Candy Lane paper measuring 2.5" x 4" (corner rounded) and embellish as desired.

To decorate the front of your Sassy Gift Card Holder:

• My colors are inspired by Color Throwdown #48: Kraft, Pink Pirouette, and Baja Breeze.
  
• I matted my 2.75" x 4.5" of Pink Pirouette with the remaining 2.5" x 4.25" piece of Candy Lane.
• A strip of Baja Breeze grosgrain (20" length) was adhered down the middle and around the back. The excess ends are perfect for tying up your gift card holder.
• I used the NEW Circle Circus set and a variety of Stampin' Up! Circle Punches. (see below for exact sizes) TIP: When adhering cardstock on top of ribbon or fabric use Glue Dots - they hold better than Stampin' Dimensionals or SNAIL adhesive.
  
• Build-A-Brads and a Baja button were the perfect sassy somethings for these funky blooms.
• Kiwi Kiss stems were added in addition to a few quick leaves courtesy of my Birds and Blooms Sizzlits die.

Voila! A sassy gift card holder!

Please note: This tutorial was adapted from Stampin' by the Sea
by Kimberly Van Diepen.

Stamps: Circle Circus (available July 1st), Great Friend (113792)
Paper: Kraft (107070), Pink Pirouette (111351), Baja Breeze (111352), Kiwi Kiss (111353), Candy Lane Designer Series Paper (113980)
Ink: Soft Suede (available July 1st), Baja Breeze (111833)
Tools: Corner Rounder (109047), Scallop Circle Punch (109043), Circle Punches: 1.25" (104403), 1" (109046), .5" (104390)
Big Shot: Machine (113439), Top Note Die (113463), Birds and Blooms Sizzlits (113485)
Must Haves: SNAIL Adhesive (104332), Sticky Strip (104294), Glue Dots (104183)
Sassy Somethings: Build-A-Brads - Antique Brass (109108), Baja Breeze Striped Grosgrain (111375), Button Bouquet (112092)

Sneak Peek - Circle Circus

I want to give you a Sneak Peek at a new set - Circle Circus - a versatile combination of whimsical circles that are sure to make your head 'spin'. Have you ever heard the song that goes, "Make new friends, but keep the old..."? (I just know there are some fellow Girl Scouts out there!) With everyone tightening their budgets I think it's important to maximize the supplies and stamps that you purchase. Combining a few new stamp sets and accessories with your existing supplies will rejuvenate your creativity and give your projects a fresh feel.

I inked up three circles in Kiwi Kiss and stamped onto Whisper White. Don't you love the fun patterns? For a twist, I decided to create a topiary flat note.

• The card base is a 4" x 9.25" piece of textured Kiwi Kiss cardstock layered with a Baja Breeze matte and a modern Baja print from Walk in the Park Designer Series Paper collection.

• Using a Corner Rounder, I rounded 2 opposing corners of the Baja layers. I love the subtle shape this gives.
• Striped Baja Breeze Grosgrain runs across the bottom and creates a simple loop on the right side. I emphasized the loop by adding a sassy button - complete with Linen Thread accent.
  
  
  
• I zipped a piece of (2.75" x 6.25") Cameo Coral thru. my Big Shot Machine using the Swiss Dot embossing folder from Cuttlebug. TIP: The Big Shot Starter Kit (116314), as featured on page 193 in the current Idea Book, will NO LONGER BE AVAILABLE AFTER JUNE 30th. If you are interested in purchasing this awesome kit filled with everything you need to get you started with die cutting, be sure to order NOW. And don't forget: All orders over $250 automatically earn additional HOSTESS BONUS rewards - that's $45++ in FREE merchandise!
• My polka-dotted Cameo Coral was layered atop a Kiwi Kiss matte, corner rounded, and embellished with a Round Tab Punch. The 'Life' sentiment was isolated from a John Lennon quote included in the Full of Life set. I simply colored on the stamp with a Chocolate Chip marker, stamped, and punched - voila!
  
• My flower pot was created in a few easy steps:
  

1. Cut a 2" square and score the top half inch.
2. Fold your flap down and adhere. Using a ruler or other straight edge, mark an angle for one side of your flowerpot. Trim along this line.
   
3. Use your trimmed corner and flip it over. (I shaded mine in Chocolate Chip so you could better see it.) Adhere and trim.
4. Tada! A perfect pot ready for 'planting' and embellishing.
   
   

I added a quick strip of Chocolate Chip for a 'trunk' and popped my circles using punches. (1.75", 1.25", and 1") They were adhered with Stampin' Dimensionals.

Note: I added my topiary to the gallery at Color Throwdown - a place for great color inspiration!

Did you notice that I said I made a simple flat note today? I quickly added a piece of Whisper White to the back - perfect for note writing, and tied everything together with the full sentiment placed at the top. A nice change, don't you think?

At the time of this post there are officially only 17 days until the NEW Stampin' Up! 2009-10 Idea Book and Catalog makes its grand debut. But who's counting, right? Need a catalog delivered straight to your hot little hands ASAP? They're a bargain for only $8 (including Priority Shipping) and should begin shipping late June/very early July.

To reserve your copy CLICK HERE to send me an e-mail with your name and mailing address. I will respond promptly and provide a PayPal link for secure payment. (PayPal or Credit Card accepted) Your copy will be reserved with completed payment.

Check out the Last Chance Accessories List. Items are selling out fast.

Place your Online Order before it's too late!

Stamps: Circle Circus (available July 1st), Full of Life (111500)

Paper: Kiwi Kiss Textured Cardstock - 12x12 astd. In Colors (111345), Baja Breeze (111352), Cameo Coral (100475), Kraft (107070), Chocolate Chip (102128), Whisper White (100730), Walk in the Park Designer Series Paper (115123)

Ink: Kiwi Kiss (111835), Chocolate Chip Stampin' Write Marker (100071)

Tools: Corner Rounder (109047), Circle Punches: 1-3/4" (112004), 1.25" (104403), 1" (109046), Round Tab Punch (108340), Big Shot Machine (1113439), Swiss Dots Cuttlebug embossing folder

Sassy Somethings: Button Bouquet (112092), Baja Breeze 5/8" Striped Grosgrain (111375), Linen Thread (104199)