A Crafty Little Place

We've Moved

2011-01-04T10:05:00.000-05:00

The design team has a new blog home and the store has a new name:

Claudia and Company

Thank you so much for the wonderful support you gave Die Cuts R Us! Die Cuts R Us is now so much more than just "die cuts", and we have crafty friends that work with so many beautiful techniques and supplies, that we just had to get "with the program". I am so grateful for each and every one of you.

So come on over, and visit us at our new blog home; the crafty doors are open, and we would love to have you over.

Have a happy crafty day!

Support and A Giveaway

2011-01-03T10:55:00.002-05:00

Friends, I am writing today to help support a very good cause, and to announce a wonderful crafty giveaway. Our design team member, Nikki, lost her mother in early December. I can't tell you how saddened we were to hear this news. While we didn't know her mother, we were extremely blessed to hear her amazing life story; one that Nikki shares with us on her blog.

I am extremely honored to help Nikki spread the word of a clothing fund for children she has opened in her mother's honor. She is even offering a giveaway. Everyone who helps her spread the word will be entered into the drawing; she will announce the winner on January 17th.

Please visit her blog HERE to read all about this amazing woman who did things for the honor and glory of God; it is a story of the life of a wonderful woman worth sharing.

Hugs to you all.

Special Post - Pixilicious - Part II

2010-12-30T10:00:00.043-05:00

I told you we'd be back and here we are...ready to see some sweet treats for your eyes? If these don't leave you aching to craft, well, I just don't know what will. I'm talking fantastical projects folks! This PIXILICIOUS paper just keeps getting better.

GDT - HEATHER

Cosmo Cricket's Pixielicious designer papers

Claudia & Company's Puddle Jumper Reagan ©Lori Boyd

Glittered Candy Dots

May Arts Lavender Mesh Ribbon

SHERI

Recipe Items found in the DCRU Store:

Paper: Neenah Classic Crest Solar White CS, Pixielicious DP Collection (Cosmo Cricket); Stamps: Maisie Lollipop digi (Claudia and Co. © Lori Boyd); Tools: Copics, Classic Oval & Classic Scallop Oval Nestabilities (Spellbinders); Other: Satin Ribbon, Pearls

GDT - CARA

Cosmo Cricket's Pixielicious designer papers

Claudia & Company's Puddle Jumper Reagan ©Lori Boyd

Glittered Candy Dots

May Arts Lavender Mesh Ribbon

JONI

Cosmo Cricket's Pixielicious designer papers

Neenah Cardstock

Copics & Memento Ink

The Greeting Farm Oliver & Amelia Buddies

NICOLE

Cosmo Cricket's Pixielicious designer papers

Neenah Cardstock

Copics

Cupcake Digi Set ©Jane's Doodles

* * *

I sincerely hope that you enjoyed this final installment of our Special Posts. A Great BIG Special THANKS to our Guest Designers: Jenn Koss, Heather Schlatter and Cara Erlam.

Please be safe during the New Year's Celebrations. We can't wait to see you all at our next challenge on January 4th, at our new blog home of Claudia and Company.

Until then...

SMiLES!

Claudia, GWeN, Nicole, Joni, Sheri and Piali

Special Post - Pixilicious - Part I

2010-12-28T10:00:00.077-05:00

Do you believe in fairies? Well, then, how about pixies? Perhaps you will after you see these PIXILICIOUS projects designed by our designers and guest designers. This week is sure to get you feeling the want of spring and all its pretty colors.

PIALI

Cosmo Cricket's Pixielicious designer papers

Claudia & Company's Puddle Jumper Daisy ©Lori Boyd

GDT - JENN

Cosmo Cricket's Pixielicious designer papers

Claudia & Company's Puddle Jumper Reagan ©Lori Boyd

Glittered Candy Dots

May Arts Lavender Mesh Ribbon

JONI

Cosmo Cricket's Pixielicious designer papers

Neenah Cardstock

The Greeting Farm image (butterfly from Spotlight Kit)

Now, didn't I tell you that it would leave you longing for spring. I just adore those colors and fresh prints. Don't fret though, our little parade of pretty isn't over. We still have one post left. So, please come back ready for some serious eye candy on Thursday, December 30th. Trust me...you won't be disappointed!

SMiLES!

GWeN and the DT

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T09:59:00.000-05:00

From our house to yours!

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.

Luke 2:11

Hugs and blessings to you all.

Claudia

Special Post - I Believe - Part II

2010-12-23T10:00:00.033-05:00

I hope you enjoyed the first installment of our Special Posts this past Tuesday.
Today we are featuring the I Believe paper once again.
Our ladies created yet another wonderful group of projects for you.

Enjoy...

SHERI

Recipe Items found in the DCRU Store:
Paper: Neenah Classic Crest Solar White CS, I Believe DP Collection (My Minds Eye); Stamps: Joy Snowman Digi (Jane's Doodles/Claudia & Co); Tools: Copics, Paper Piercer; Other: Buttons, Twine, Pearls

PIALI

Thank you set...

Close up

Holiday Thanks

Papers: My Mind's Eye, I Believe line

Baker's Twine

GDT - HEATHER

Papers: My Mind's Eye, I Believe line
The Greeting Farm Stamp
Red Satin Ribbon

GWEN

Recipe: I Believe DP; OA-TGF Image; Baker's Twine; Prisma CS; DCWV Glitter DP; QK Snowflake Dies;

Spellbinders Lables One Dies; Copics; Memento Ink; misc.

NICOLE

Papers: My Mind's Eye, I Believe line

Our Special Posts aren't finished yet...stop by on Tuesday, December 28th for our third installment!

We will be featuring a paper quite different from I Believe.

See you then!

SMiLES!

GWeN

Special Post - I Believe - Part I

2010-12-21T10:00:00.064-05:00

Today we have no challenge post. The next few posts are going to be all about giving...giving the gift of Inspiration.

Our designers and a few Guest Desingers have put together some eye candy to help keep you inspired while you are busy with the hustle and bustle of the holidays.

We had the opportunity to work with I Believe (shown above) and here is what our first group of ladies has created for you...

JONI

Recipe:

My Mind's Eye I Believe Designer Paper

The Greeting Farm's O&A Just For You

American Crafts Ribbon Surprise Pack

Copics & Memento Ink

Neenah Cardstock

GDT - JENN

My Mind's Eye I Believe Designer Paper
Red Satin Ribbon

Glittered Candy Dots

GDT - CARA

Beanie Anya

My Mind's Eye I Believe Designer Paper

Satin Ribbon

Glittered Candy Dots

JONI & HER DD

Recipe:
My Mind's Eye I Believe Designer Paper
Snow Day collection chipboard accents

Our next post will be Thursday, December 23rd. You'll want to stop by and bask in the glory of the gorgeous projects our ladies have in store for you.

SMiLES!

GWeN

Giveaway Winner

2010-12-20T17:36:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone! Happy Christmas week!

I am here to announce the winner of last week's giveaway prize, The Smart Trimmer by Purple Cows.

Our winner is challenge entry #2

Linda B.

Congratulation Linda! Please email me with your addy so I can send your trimmer on its way.

Thank you all so very much for playing along with our challenges every week. I am so very grateful for all of you.

Our next challenge will be Tuesday, January 4th, and will take place at our new home:

Claudia and Company.

We would love to see you there, so don't forget to stop by and become a follower.

We'll be back tomorrow with some wonderful inspiration from our design team and guest designers.

Have a wonderful week!

Hugs,

Tag It Winners!!

2010-12-20T10:00:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone!!

Happy Monday!!
Thank you so much for joining us for last week's TAG IT challenge!!
There were lots of fabulous tags and cards with tags. Love all the great new ideas some of you shared with us!!!

Now for our winner and top three:

Mary C.

Rachel Hope.

Heaney

and

Our top pick of the week:

Annika

Congratulations ladies!!

Please make sure to grab your blog badges HERE!!

Happy Holidays!!!

Hugs~

Piali.

These Are a Few of "Our" Favorite Things...

2010-12-17T10:57:00.002-05:00

The end of 2010 is coming into clear view. Only 2 weeks left! Its a time when many of us will start looking back over the past months and do a bit of reflection. I know...the year isn't over yet. We've still got a major holiday and lots left to do, right? Right! That is why this is the perfect time to give a little notice and reflection on a few of our favorite things.

In this post we are reflecting on YOU! Uh-huh...we all went back and took a peek at the projects submitted to us over the past year and picked a few of our faves to highlight today. Let me tell you, this was no easy task. There is something so special about each project we have submitted. We really do appreciate them all and that is why we are left with nagging headaches...hehehe. Trying to narrow it down to a handful was BRUTAL on us. However, after much deliberating, here are the projects that we decided upon.

Tab

Thank you so much for your loyal support and participation. It means a great deal to us all that you make our challenges home to your talents too. We hope to see you at our next challenge, January 4th located at our new blog home: Claudia and Company!

Warmest wishes to you,

Gwen, Sheri, Joni, Piali, Nicole, Nikki and Claudia

Challenge #68 - TAG IT!

2010-12-14T10:00:00.003-05:00

Okay, this is a BIG ONE! Its our very LAST CHALLENGE POST at this location. We have some fun posts coming up for you before the end of the year, so be sure to come back and visit through the holidays.

OUR NEXT CHALLENGE will be located at our new home...

CLAUDIA and COMPANY!

We'll see you there on January 4th, so mark those challenge calendars.

* * *

Here is a timely challenge for all of you gift givers...a TAG! That's right, all you need to create this week is a project that is either a tag or has a tag on it.

Our ladies put their sense of frugality to work here and used scraps from our Jovial Collection. It looks a little something like this, just in case you didn't see it the first time we showcased it.

Perdy huh? Lots of fun too!

Here are some fabulous designs by our paper crafty design divas...

PIALI

Recipe:

Basic Grey ~ Jovial Paper pad; Claudia & Co~ Puddle Jumper-Ella mini set;

Baker's Twine; Spellbinders dies; Scor-tape; Copics; Neenah Classic Crest cardstock

SHERI

Recipe Items found in the DCRU Store:
Paper: Neenah Classic Crest Solar White CS, Jovial DP Collection (Basic Grey); Stamps: Winter Landon Puddle Jumper ©Lori Boyd (Claudia and Company Stamps); Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Antique Linen Distress Ink (Tim Holtz); Tools: Copics, Petite Oval & Petite Scallop Oval Nestabilities (Spellbinders)

NICOLE

Papers: Basic Grey's Jovial 6x6 pad

Image: Sugar Sticks Grandparents

Letter Stickers: Cosmo Cricut Tiny Type Clear/Black

Coloring: Copics

Base Tag: Manilla Tag

GWEN

Recipe: Jovial DP; TGF-Miss Anya Lounge; Cosmo Cricket Tiny Type; Baker's Twine; Prisma Cardstock; Memento Ink-Tuxedo Black; Copic Markers; 3-D Square Adhesive;

JONI

Recipe:

Basic Grey Jovial designer paper

Snow Day chipboard collection

Joy Ride collection button
American Crafts surprise ribbon pack

baker's twine

* * *

Our winner of last week's give away is going to get that amazing CC Mitten Weather Crafting Kit!

That makes Berenice R our winner!

Please contact, Claudia with your mailing information by sending her an email to:

diecutsrus [at] me [dot] com

* * *

Okay, here is something super special! To celebrate the last challenge here at
A Crafty Little Place, Claudia is giving away this INCREDIBLE Purple Cow Cutter!!!!

How do you win? Just enter a tag project right here at the little blue frog.

The Smart Trimmer by Purple Cows

SMiLES!

GWeN and the DT

* * *

Winners for A Crafty Little Challenge #67

2010-12-13T10:00:00.009-05:00

Happy Monday Everyone!!

Thank you so much for playing along with us in last weeks fun SKETCH challenge!!

Here are our top picks:

Eva

Jan

Pat

and

Our top card pick of the week:

Melly

Congratulations ladies!!

Please make sure to grab your blog badges HERE!!

Have a wonderful day and please make sure to meet us back here tomorrow for another fun challenge!!

Happy Stamping!!

One GINORMOUS Announcement!

2010-12-09T10:00:00.023-05:00

There are changes brewing in this crafty corner of the world and they will be happening at the first of the year!

Our journey here began with Die Cuts R Us, a fantastic paper craft supply center where you have come to find your favorite papers, inks, coloring tools and the most exceptional customer service we can provide.

Then, you were introduced to Claudia and Company Stamps. A fun stamp company with exclusive stamps in both rubber and digital images. The prices always right, the styles versatile and oh, so cute!

Not only did you have two incredible sources for your supply needs but you also have two incredibly inspiring design teams.

Imagine having the best of both worlds...

One stop shopping for all of your card and craft needs?

Customer Service that is second to none...

Amazing inspiration and designs on one fantastic Design Team Blog...

Well, you CAN have it all. You can have it with...

Claudia and Company!

Its coming...stay tuned for more updates...details...special promotions...

The countdown begins...NOW!

Challenge #67 - Sketch It!

2010-12-07T10:00:00.020-05:00

First of all, I want to say AMAZING! Your projects last week were beyond wonderful and so many of them at that. I don't know that we've ever seen so many projects for one challenge. As much as we try, we don't always get each project commented on, however, we did see them and you blew us all away! Thank you for a very impressive and inspiring week.

Now, we are giving you a little happy sketch to work on this week. It was designed by our very own, Joni Wilson. Using the sketch and the Cosmo Cricket Mitten Weather DP our ladies put together a fun sampling of projects for you to view.

PIALI

Recipe:

Papers: Cosmo Cricket~MittenWeather; Stamps: Claudia & Co.PJ~ Winter Ella and Emma; Cluadia and Co.~ So Random sentiments;

Teal Baker's Twine; Neenah Classic Crest cardstock

NICOLE

Papers: Cosmo Cricket Mitten Weather

Image: Wreath Set by Maree Truelove

Copic Coloring

SHERI

Recipe Items from the DCRU Store:
Paper: Neenah Classic Crest Solar White CS, Mitten Weather DP Collection (Cosmo Cricket); Stamps: Winter Hannah Puddle Jumper (Lori Boyd/Claudia & Co), Sentiment from Party Time Noah (Lori Boyd/Claudia & Co); Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Antique Linen Distress Ink (Tim Holtz); Tools: Copics, Classic Rectangle Nestabilities (Spellbinders)

JONI

Recipe:

Cosmo Cricket's Mitten Weather designer papers

Claudia & Company Presley digital stamp

Baker's Twine

Spellbinders Nestabilities

Neenah Cardstock

Copics

GWEN

Recipe: CC Mitten Weather DP; Ella PJ from Claudia and Company Stamps; Copic Markers; Memento Ink; White Opaque Pen; Tim Holtz Distress Ink - China Blue

* * *

Now, to join in this week you know what you need to do. Get your supplies, use the sketch and get creative! After last week, I'm sure your mojo is still on fire and I'm really looking forward to all the projects you'll be submitting.

One of you will be winning an outstanding prize...the Mitten Weather Crafting Kit!!!

Be sure to get your project loaded before the deadline on Sunday at 9:00 EST.

* * *

Before I go though, we do have some BIG EXCITING NEWS that is coming your way. Stop back on THURSDAY for a GINORMOUS ANNOUNCEMENT!!!

Smiles!

Gwen, Claudia and the DT

* * *

Anything Goes Winners

2010-12-06T10:00:00.008-05:00

Happy Monday to everyone! I've been MIA for a while now due to an illness. Wow! Can I just say I've missed so many fabulous things. This weeks challenge was no exception. It was so tough to narrow all those amazing entries down to 4. Yikes. I did it though. Here's a look at this week's winners....

Claire

This is such an amazing Easel Card. I adore the details.

Terry

This card made me giggle because that image is ME when I was little. I'm not kidding. Plus I love those stars!

Pat

Doesn't this card just make you happy? Glittery beard and a jingle bell.....Oh Santa, make my wish come true.

Tracy

Do I even need to say anything? This is just amazing! I love every detail and that coloring. Oh, MAD coloring skillz!

Congrats Winners!

Don't forget to grab your badges.

We'll see you all back here tomorrow for another A Crafty Little Place Challenge.

A Special Appearance from a Special Friend

2010-12-03T10:00:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone! I'm excited to bring you a cute little card I spotted over at our wonderful friend Jessica Diedrich's blog! I love this card so much, I just had to share it with you; and... it just so happens that she used some of our most popular products. I've been scoping out her etsy shop just to see if it appears. Heehee.

My Minds Eye Fine & Dandy Tickled Pink 6x6 Paper Pad

The Greeting Farm's Cuddle Anya

Prima's Fairytale Roses

Tsukineko Shimmer Spritz

Here is a close up look of the Shimmer Spritz she used on her card.

Doesn't that look fabulous?

Thanks so much for sharing your beautiful creation with us Jessica! You are such a wonderful and talented gal! We just think the world of you, here at Die Cuts R Us!

Friends, its Friday! What will you be doing this weekend? We are putting up our Christmas tree and decorations. Oh how I LOVE this time of the year!

Hugs,

Challenge #66 - Anything Goes!

2010-11-30T10:00:00.001-05:00

I hope you all enjoyed your Thanksgiving break. I have had good reports from my DT Sisters that everyone here had a wonderful experience with family and friends. Sadly we have a few with little ones that caught belly bugs and such. Here's hoping that everyone is on the mend soon.

We had a winner from our little contest last week. Thanks to all of you who signed up to get those fantastic PoPs! A great big congrats to lucky number....

Darling Ho!

Please contact Claudia with your address information. Email her at: Claudia (at) diecutsrus (dot) com

The girls and I had another supreme dp to work with. Its Curio and it is FABULOUS!!!!

This wonderfully versatile paper can be found at Die Cuts R Us in the 6x6 paper pad for only $5.40. You can also find the fun embellies, a card kit, and the 12x12 Paper Pad Collection. Stop by and give it a looksie, this line is really wonderful.

Now, take a looksie at what our extraordinary designers put together for you...

JONI

Recipe:

Basic Grey's Curio Designer Paper

The Greeting Farm's Olive & Amelia Journey set

Dear Lizzy collection Paper Flower

Basic Grey Capella brad

Neenah Cardstock

Copics and Memento Ink

PIALI

Recipe:

Papers: Basic Grey~Curio 6x6 paper pad; Scor-tape;

Yellow Baker's twine;

SHERI

Recipe Items found in the DCRU Store:
Paper: Neenah Classic Crest Solar White CS, Curio DP Collection (Basic Grey); Stamps: Twinkle Tots Madelynn; Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Antique Linen Distress Ink (Tim Holtz); Tools: Copics, Paper Piercer, Oval Nestabilities (Spellbinders); Other: Satin Ribbon

NICOLE

Papers: Basic Grey Curio line

Image: Jane's Doodles Skating Mia

Coloring: Copic Markers

Pearl: Kaisercraft

Wow! I think the week off has restored the mojo here at A Crafty Little Place...don't you? Since you have no limits on this challenge, I do hope you all play along. I'm sure after all the time off for turkey you are all rearing to tear off the aprons and drag out your craft supplies. I know I am ready to do just that! So...what's keepin' you from from joining me? Link up your project below.

SMiLES!

GWeN and the DT

* * *

Cyber Monday Special & Zutter Bind It All Winner

2010-11-27T19:35:00.000-05:00

Hello friends. How was Thanksgiving for our U.S. friends? I enjoyed (and am enjoying) spending it with my family; my wonderful boys. I have to tell you my favorite part of Thanksgiving; some of you may have heard this story already, so bear with me as I share it once again. My heart is just overjoyed. We sat around the dinner table saying what we are thankful for; when it was my five year old's turn, he said:

"I am thankful for hugging my mom".

As you might imagine, a big hug followed! These precious moments are the ones I treasure, and the ones for which I am thankful to be able to work from home. I am thankful to God who always provides. I am thankful to all of you who make this time in my in life worthwhile.

Thank you to everyone who helped me spread the word of our Oh So Thankful sale! The winner of the Zutter Bind It All machine is entry #16:

Bonnie Cantu

Congratulations Bonnie! Please contact me with your addy at diecutsrus [at] me [dot] com.

I'd also like a announce a little Cyber Monday special. Many of you are fans of our 6x6 sampler packs, sooooo...

All of our 6x6 sampler packs will be on sale for 35% off.

Most of our sampler packs are $3.00 each; so on Monday (only), they will be $1.95! Some even lower. We will also introduce 4 new sampler packs.

Have a wonderful rest of your weekend.

See you Monday.

Hugs,

Thankful for YOU Inspirational Post

2010-11-23T10:52:00.000-05:00

This week we know how busy you all are. So, we are giving you an Inspirational Post. No challenge this time. We want you to enjoy your family and friends and all of those yummy seasonal dishes you'll be sampling this week. So, grab a piece of pumpkin pie (or something else delectable), sit back and enjoy!

PIALI

Recipe:

Papers: Basic Grey ~Marjolaine; Prism cardstock; Claudia & Co~ Puddle Jumper-Winter Ella;

3-D Dots

NICOLE

Papers: Basic Grey Marjolaine 6x6 collection

image: Joy Snowman by Jane's Doodles

Copic Coloring

SHERI

Recipe Items found in the DCRU Store:
Paper: Neenah Classic Crest Solar White CS, Marjolaine DP Collection (Basic Grey); Stamps: Party Time Penguin, Sentiment from Party Time Noah Stamp Set (Lori Boyd/Claudia & Co); Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black; Tools: Copics, Classic Circle & Petite Scallop Circle Nestabilities (Spellbinders), Paper Piercer

Recipe:

Basic Grey Marjolaine designer papers

Memento Ink

Quickutz flourishes

White Adhesive Foam Dots

Zots adhesive glue dots

Friends, even though we are not having a challenge this week, we do have a giveaway. Just because we are OH SO THANKFUL for you and your wonderful support to our blog.
We are giving away this super cute Marjolaine Pops embellishment pack by Basic Grey.

All you have to do to be entered to win is leave a comment on this post; share with us what you are thankful for. Please leave a comment by Sunday, the 28th (11:59PM EST). We will announce the winner on Tuesday's challenge post.

Oh, and don't forget about our Oh So Thankful sale going on now. Just click HERE to start shopping. There are lots of items that would make great gifts for you and that crafter in your life.
Have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving!

Hugs,

Claudia, Gwen, Joni, Sheri, Nikki, Piali, and Nicole

Alter It Challenge #65 Winners!

2010-11-22T10:58:00.000-05:00

This week's ALTERED CHALLENGE really brought us some fabulous artwork! I don't alter items often, but when I do, it makes me want to do more, doesn't it you? Well, here's our TOP THREE favorites and then below is our super fabulous WINNING entry of the Pyrus glazed brads!!

Beth!!!

Awilda!!!

Patti!!!

Congratulations!

Be sure to grab your badge (above), Ladies!

Our PRIZE Winner is:

BRENDA!!

Grab your badge and email Claudia for your prize!

Thanks to everyone who entered and we hope to see you again!

NOW.... Scroll DOWN

to see the exciting news!

BLACK FRIDAY begins TODAY

at the Die Cuts R Us Store!!!

Oh So Thankful Sale Giveaway

2010-11-22T05:00:00.001-05:00

Hello friends! Happy Thanksgiving Week!

Our Oh So Thankful sale starts this morning at 9:00AM EST.

I am here today to ask for your help in spreading the word. As a thank you, I am giving away, to one randomly selected participant, a Zutter Bind It All machine.

All you have to do for a chance to win is help me spread the word by posting about our Oh So Thankful Sale on your blogs between now and Wednesday, the 24th; come back here, and link your post using our little froggy friend below. Please be sure its an actual post; not just a sidebar addition. We can reach more crafty readers that way. Complete details of the sale are available on our store website:

www.diecutsrus.com

Please use the banner at the top to attach to your post.

We will announce the winner of the Zutter machine next weekend.

Thank you for your wonderful support!

Hugs,

* * *

Oh So Thankful Sale Announcement

2010-11-19T10:00:00.039-05:00

Hello everyone. Its Friday! Can you believe it? Our Oh So Thankful Sale is getting closer and closer. Today, I have a very special announcement.

The first 12 customers to place an order of $100.00 or more beginning on Monday, the 22nd will receive a free Quickutz Limited Edition set:

Our Oh So Thankful sale "doors" will open on Monday, November 22nd at 9:00AM EST.

I have a busy weekend ahead. Can you believe my husband signed me up (just a few days ago) to sell at a local craft show on Saturday. Little did he know that he signed himself up too. Heehee! He is so great! He is going to be there with me; if anything, to run out and get us some Starbucks. Oh, and did I mention I have never done this before? Eek! Sunday, we will be attending our annual Thanksgiving service at church; followed by a yummy Thanksgiving dinner (um, lunch) with our congregation.

I am not sure if I will be able to post more previews this weekend, so just in case time doesn't allow, here are just a few more names you will see as part of the Oh So Thankful sale:

Basic Grey

October Afternoon

Crate Papers

Unity Stamp Co.

The Greeting Farm

Oh, I hope you are all excited! I hope to provide you with big savings on some of your favorite products. If I don't see you this weekend, I'll be back, bright and early, on Monday to provide you with complete details.

Hugs,

Oh So Thankful Sale Preview

2010-11-18T10:00:00.047-05:00

Hello everyone! Happy Thursday!

I am so excited about our upcoming sale! I am preparing a special category to make all the specially priced items easy to find. All "under one roof", as they say. {heehee}

Friends, God has been great to me, and my family; I thank HIM every single day. I am so grateful for your wonderful support and for your business. Even more so, I am grateful for all the wonderful friendships I have made. The crafting community is so great. I just couldn't think of a better "title" for this sale.

I am just

Oh So Thankful!

So, do you want to see some of the items that will be part of the sale next week? I have a few to show you today; I will be back in a day or two to show you more. Be prepared to see some amazing products at great low prices!

All things Nikki Sivils:

S.E.I.'s Moonrise Collection:

All Christmas Stampavie stamps:

Prima Marketing Inc.:

Lots of Cosmo Cricket:

Even newly released:

So what do you think so far? This is just a start. I'll be back very soon to show you a little more.

Oh, we will also be doing a give away; so stay tuned for details on that.

Have a wonderful day!

Hugs,

Challenge #65 - Alter It!

2010-11-16T10:10:00.006-05:00

Can you believe it is time for yet another fantastic challenge? It seems like I just finished posting last week's challenge. We had some amazing projects entered and several wonderful winners. Our challenge this week promises to be one filled with creative mojo too.

Creativitity seems to be something that is sparked in times when frugality and poor economics are at hand. We've seen our share of economic woes here in Ohio and I'm sure people everywhere are feeling the pinch in their pockets like we are. This challenge is a wonderful way to make something spectacular out of something that may be a little less than desirable.

We challenge everyone to take something you already have and make it stupendous with a little alteration. Our Designers got really into this and created some outstanding projects that would be wonderful to display in the comforts of your home or gift to someone you love.

Claudia supplied us all with the wonderfully versatile Pyrus DP. It can be purchased at DCRU for a steal! Just $5.40 for the super 6x6 paper pad.
Now that is a budget friendly option for any penny pinching crafter.

Here we go...hold on to your britches because our ladies really went above and beyond this week!

NICOLE

Papers: Basic Grey's Pyrus Collection

* * *

SHERI

Recipe Items found in the DCRU Store:
Paper: Pyrus DP Collection (Basic Grey)
Stamp: Sentiment from Party Time Noah (Lori Boyd/Claudia and Co)
Ink: Memento Rich Cocoa
Other: Buttons, Satin Brown Ribbon

* * *

PIALI

Recipe:

Papers-Basic Grey~ Pyrus; May Arts solid wrinkled Ivory ribbon; Bo Bunny ~Crush Jewels;

Kaisercraft~ Paper flowers; 3D-Dots

* * *

GWEN

Basic Grey Pyrus; Quickutz harvest font; Tim Holtz Distress Ink

misc. rhinestone, ribbon

* * *

JONI

Recipe:

Basic Grey Pyrus designer paper

Nestabilities

Quickutz shapes

* * *

Are you feeling inspired to create? Well then craft away and link up below. You know the rules. But what you didn't know is that Miss Claudia is feeling very generous again this week. You've got a chance to win these:

Pyrus Glazed Brads

That's right another wonderful prize just waiting for you to claim it. Pretty cool huh? So? What are you waiting for?

SMiLES!

GWeN and the DT

* * *

Don't miss our:

Monday, November 22nd is the start of DCRU "Oh So Thankful" sale! This is our before, during, and after Thanksgiving Sale. We just can't wait until the day after Thanksgiving so we are having a week long sale...shop ahead for yourself (heehee), and then hit the stores on Black Friday for all family shopping!!! You can shop, any day, all week long! Sale ends November 26th.

* * *

Winner's Challenge #64

2010-11-15T10:00:00.012-05:00

Ladies you made some very exciting projects this week. I'm so impressed with your work on our color challenge and it made it sooooo difficult to choose our winners. But, choose I did and here are our well deserved winners and their projects.

**********************
We interrupt this post to bring you an important announcement!

Claudia and Company's sweet little Puddle Jumpers are now available as DIGIs!
Yes, that's right, you asked, we listened... 16 Puddle Jumpers are now available for purchase.
Hope you are just as excited as we are!

Now back to our regularly scheduled post.
Heehee!

**********************

Alyssa

What a great use of patterns and a fun design.

Risa

This card is designed so wonderfully and her coloring is absolutely phenomenal.

CAROL

This gift idea is incredible. The project looks great and is so practical and personal. Love this idea!

ANNIKA

Her use of white on white is absolutely stunning. The way she colored her image is breath-taking.

Congratulations to all of our winners! Join us tomorrow for another exciting challenge right here...same craft station...same craft time...

SMiLES!

GWeN

Christmas 6x6 Sampler Packs Special

2010-11-12T09:48:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone! Happy Friday! I can't believe that it is so close to being the middle of November. Christmas is my favorite time of the year, so I am very excited to see that Christmas card making is in full swing. Wanted to stop by to show you the Christmas 6x6 sampler packs that we have available at Die Cuts R Us.

If you aren't familiar with our 6x6 sampler packs, let me tell you that these are a favorite among our card making customers. You receive two 6x6 sheets of each design pictured; these are individually cut from 12x12 papers. Customers love being able to sample a collection without having to purchase all 12x12 sheets. Here are the collections we currently have available:

Basic Grey's Eskimo Kisses

Echo Park Paper's Everybody Loves Christmas

My Minds Eye I Believe

Basic Grey's Jovial

Crate Paper's Snow Day

The Girls Paperie's Tinsel & Twig

Bo Bunny's Winter Joy

My Minds Eye Colorful Christmas

You can find them all HERE!

Have you started creating your Christmas Cards yet? I'm here to help with a little Friday Special.

All our Christmas sampler packs are on sale for 15% off... TODAY ONLY!

Have a wonderful day and weekend!

Hugs,

Challenge #64 - Red White and Green

2010-11-09T10:27:00.000-05:00

Are you feeling like a color challenge? We've got one for you this week and it shall be Jovial! That's right...we are using our colors found in the Jovial DP; red, white and green.

If you haven't been introduced to the Jovial papers take a little gander at this 6x6 sample selections found at DCRU:

What were the Designers able to create with this fun seasonal collection? Well, you are going to be surprised. They really whipped up some fanastic projects for you.

SHERI

Recipe Items found in the DCRU Store:
Paper: Neenah Classic Crest Solar White CS, Jovial DP Collection Basic Grey
Stamps: Party Time Noah (Lori Boyd/Claudia & Co)
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Antique Linen Distress Ink (Tim Holtz)
Other: Copics, Rectangle Nestabilities (Spellbinders)

* * *

PIALI

Recipe:

Papers: Basic Grey~ Jovial collection;

May Arts ribbon; 3D dots; Tim Holtz distress Tool

* * *

NICOLE

Papers: Basic Grey Jovial Collection

Image: Wreath by Maree Truelove

Pearls: cream

* * *

GWEN

Jovial DP; Ian and Anya from TGF; Memento Ink; 3-D Dots; Quickutz nesting Scalloped Circles; Copics

* * *

JONI

Recipe:

Basic Grey's Jovial papers

The Greeting Farm image: Madelynn

Neenah Cardstock

Memento ink and Copics

* * *

NIKKI

Stamps: Peaceful Wishes

Ink: Memento Black

Paper: Basic Gray Jovial, Buttercream and Green Prism

Other: sewing machine, red ribbon, EK Success punch, corner rounder

Weren't those great? Do you get the feeling that people are getting excited about the coming season and seasonal celebrations? Why not create something of your own to share with us here. Just use the colors of RED - GREEN - WHITE in your projects and link up here by Sunday at 9:00 PM EST.

* * *

Want to know who won the Wander Woolies?

That makes, Tip Top our winner of the woolies. Please contact Claudia with your mailing address. You can send her a message at: claudia (@ ) diecutsrus (dot) com.

Congratulations, enjoy your goodies!

* ♥ * ♥ * ♥ *

Winners Announcement

2010-11-08T10:00:00.017-05:00

Happy Monday everyone!
Thank you so much for playing along with our sketch challenge last week.

Your entries were all so amazing and creative!

Congratulations to the following crafters:

Gram
using the great Wanted papers

Alyssa
with her cutie Oliver image

Parchey Family
with a flipped wonderful sketch

And our top pick:

Sarah
and her adorable bday card

Woohoo! Ladies please grab your buttons HERE on this page.
Thank you again everyone, please join us tomorrow
for a fun new challenge that you won't want to miss
as well as the winner of the woolies!
Have a wonderful day!
~*Joni

Claudia & Company Winter Release Party Blog Hop

2010-11-05T10:00:00.018-04:00

Welcome to our Winter Release Party! I am so happy you are here. As you may have guessed, I am your last stop. If you just arrived here from our wonderful guest designer's blog... Mercy... then you are right on track. If you just landed here, please go to the beginning of the blog hop HERE.

We are just so thrilled to have you party with us this weekend. So happy, that Die Cuts R Us, Claudia and Company's sister company is offering a wonderful prize package to one of our blog hoppers. Take a peek at the prize package.

Yes, that's right, included in the prize package are all six of our new rubber stamp releases. So don't forget to leave a comment at every stop; that's all you have to do to be eligible to win. We will announce the winner on Monday, the 8th over at Claudia & Company's blog. You have until Monday at 8:00AM EST to comment.

Thank you so much for your wonderful friendship and support.

Have a wonderful and blessed weekend.

Challenge #63 - Sketch for the Guys!

2010-11-02T10:00:00.002-04:00

Can you actually believe that its NOVEMBER?!? I'm still wondering where October went. We do have some fun things in store for you and I hope you'll visit each week to see whats new.

To kick things off we are going to introduce a sketch by our lovely, Joni Wilson!

Our designers worked with this wonderful sketch and the WANDER DP, found in 6x6 sample packs for only $2.75. You can also pick this up in the awesome 6x6 paper PAD with the current sale price of $5.40! Die Cuts R Us also carries the cooridnating buttons and embellies, you'll need to stop by and check them out. Okay, now that I'm done shamelessly plugging the products...hehehe, would you like to see what the girls did with them? Alrighty then, sit back and let your eyes wander over these adventurous and inspiring visions...

SHERI

Recipe Items found in the DCRU Store:
Paper: Neenah Classic Crest Solar White CS, Wander DP Collection (Basic Grey); Stamps: Davey Puddle Jumper (Lori Boyd/Claudia & Company); Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copics; Tools: Oval Nestabilities (Spellbinders)

* * *

NIKKI

Supplies Used:

Paper: XPress Blending,White, Black, Green PRISM, , Basic Grey Wander

Ink: Black Memento, Stamps: Stampavie Skateboard Dude Other: Chipboard letters, Robots Chipboard, Oval and Circle Nestabilities, Black Ric Rac, pinking shears, Copics,

* * *

PIALI

Recipe:

Papers: Basic Grey~ Wander; Stamp:Unity Stamps~EMBRACE YOU;

Spellbinders~ Nestabilities; Basic Grey~ Nook & Pantry; Distress Ink;

Baker's twine- Yellow; Glue dots;

* * *

JONI

Recipe:

Basic Grey's Wander Designer Papers

The Greeting Farm Oh Boy Ian

Joy Ride button

brown Baker's Twine

Copics and memento ink

Neenah cardstock

dimensionals and glue dots

* * *

NICOLE

SugarStick Digital Image: Grandparents

Miss You: So Random Sentiment Stamp Set

Papers: Basic Grey's Wander Sampler pack

* * *

GWEN

DP: Wander
Cardstock: Prism
Image: Davey PuddleJumper by Claudia and Company
Ink: Memento; Tim Holtz Distress Ink-Vintaged Photo
Bakers Twine, Nook and Pantry Button and Brad, TGF-OandA Journey Sentiment, Copic Markers

* * *

Want to know who won last week's challenge prize? Me too! So, can I have a drum roll please....

Our winner for the uber cute ribbon from TPC is:

That means that Linda B is our Lucky Lady!
Linda, please send me an email with your mailing address.
You can reach me at www {dot} gwensbusylittlehands {@} sbcglobal {dot} net.

Congratulations to you!

* * *

This week we've got ANOTHER GIVE AWAY!!!!

Claudia is on a roll, she's offering one lucky challenge participant this exciting prize:

The Wander Woolies! Aren't the fun? They could be yours, just link up your project and you will get a chance to welcome these little wanderers into your mailbox.

* ♥ * ♥ * ♥ *

Winners of our SPOOKY CHALLENGE!

2010-11-01T11:42:00.000-04:00

Okay, you guys really blew us all away with your amazing projects. However, we had to limit our winners to four. So, here is our Top Three:

PAUL

WENDY

Wendy I apologize that your photo isn't here but my PC just didn't get along with your file. So, sorry. Your project was and is GREAT! I encourage everyone to click her name and take a peek.

SUSAN

And our winner is:

SHARON

Congrats to all of our winners this week. Please stop by to each of their blogs by clicking on their names. You can give them a congrats and a little blogger love while you are there.

Also, we have a Give Away Winner to announce...but I'm going to make you wait until tomorrow's post...hehehe! Hope to see you back for our new challenge...

SMiLES!
GWeN

A Crafty Little Treat Holder

2010-10-28T10:00:00.087-04:00

Happy Thursday everyone!
It's Joni here with a quick and easy tutorial for a little treat holder using your

favorite 6x6 sheets of designer papers and wonderful products from DCRU.

Last month I had the opportunity to attend a Meet and Greet with 20 other crafters.

Everyone swapped ideas and I am so excited to share this one with you!

To begin you will need:
6x6 sheet of designer paper (double sided works well)
adhesive
embellishments

Now let's begin!
Start with a 6x6 piece of paper and score horizontally:

Fold paper in half, forming a triangle:

Fold one side over, bringing the point halfway across the plane:

Repeat on the other side:

Last step:
Fold down top flap to create a pocket:

Adhere and embellish!

This is a great project for a quick hostess or teacher's gift,
for little treats as well as gift cards (tucked behind the peppermints), or

even as birthday party favors. It's so fun that the kids can make these themselves for a craft!

As you can see, tea bags fit perfectly into a 6x6 size. Follow the same directions

to create 8x8 treat holders to accommodate hot chocolate packets and bigger snacks.
You can find all these wonderful 6x6 papers HERE at DCRU with the most amazing prices.

Thank you so much for coming by everyone, be sure to let us know if you've tried this out!
Have a wonderful day. :)

~*Joni

Challenge #62 - Make it SPOOKY!

2010-10-26T10:00:00.005-04:00

This week's challenge is all about creating something that isn't necessarily pretty. We want you to create something "SPOOKY". It doesn't have to be creepy or scary, it can be cute, just use your imagination and have some fun with it.

Our ladies on the Design Team were busy creating with the really fun papers from Rockets and Rayguns which you can find at Die Cuts R Us in a 6x6 sample pack for the fantastic price of $2.75!

Here are the cosmically creepy creations our put together for you...

PIALI

TCP Studios~ROCKETS and RAYGUNS;

Inkssentials White Opaque Pen; Tim Holtz Paper Distresser; Tim Holtz Distress Ink;

Scor Tape

* * *

NIKKI

Paper: Rockets and Rayguns (TPC Studios), Green Prism

Other: Rockets and Rayguns sticker pack, Spellbinders tag die, paper piercer

* * *

JONI

TCP Rockets and Rayguns Designer papers

Neenah Solar White Cardstock

Cosmo Cricket Tiny Type stickers (sentiment)

Nestabilities

* * *

NICOLE

Papers: TPC Studios Rockets and Rayguns

Digital Stamp: Lollipop Gracie

Button: Basic Grey Nook & Pantry

Copic Coloring

* * *

SHERI

Neenah Classic Crest Solar White CS
Rockets and Rayguns DP
Mr. Smiles (Jane Beljo/Claudia and Co.)

* * *

GWEN

Rockets and Rayguns DP; Wrinkle Ribbon May Arts; Baker's Twine; So Random Sentiments by Claudia and Company; Memento Ink; Tiny Attacher; 3-D Dots

* * *

I really think these are super fun and super cute! I can't wait to see what little spooky projects your come up with. We saw several for our easel challenge last week and I KNOW you can do this challenge and DO IT WELL! Have fun with it!

SMiLES!

GWeN and the DT

Hello everyone! Claudia here... it was so great to see your easel cards last week. They were all amazing! We have a winner for our American Craft stamp set giveaway.

Entry #31

Christine N.

Congratulations Christine! Please email me your addy so I can send your stamp set!

We have another giveaway this week.

Since the DT used Rockets and Rayguns DP for the challenge this week, we are giving away a pack of Rockets and Rayguns ribbon.

All you have to do, for a chance to win, is participate in this week's challenge. We will draw a name and announce the winner next Tuesday.

Have a wonderful stamping week!

Claudia

* ♥ * ♥ * ♥ *

Easel Card Winners!

2010-10-25T10:00:00.001-04:00

Can I just say that you guys are AMAZING! Really!

I was so in awe of all the creative ideas for making an Easel Card. I had never made one before last week's challenge and now I'm just so inspired to try out some new and exciting ways.

Thanks for the inspiration!

WOW! It was so tough to pick the winner's this week.

Here they are:

Winners, don't forget to grab your badge and CONGRATULATIONS!

Pop back in tomorrow for another fun challenge at ACLP:D

See you then......

Video Card Friday

2010-10-22T10:00:00.012-04:00

Mr. Smiles by Jane's Doodles

Happy Friday everyone. Today I have a new coloring video using "Mr. Smiles" stamp set. It was very popular with my daughter and husband, they loved it. My daughter said "He's a happy monster!" I think he is too. :) . Enjoy the videos, and if you want to win this stamp set, visit my blog for more details.

Stamp: Claudia & Company "Mr.Smiles"
Paper: Bo Bunny Winter Joy,
Copic:
BG11, BG23, BG32, BG34
YG0000, YG01, YG21, YG23
V01, V04, V05, V09
C1, 0
Prismacolor: Canary Yellow, Sandstone Brown, Cool Grey 90%, Black
Other: Prismacolor Pastels

Coloring Process Video:

"Make It Simple" Card #1:

Want to win this stamp set? Visit my blog for more details.

Challenge #61 - Easel Cards!

2010-10-19T10:00:00.066-04:00

This week we have some special announcements following the challenge deets. Please be sure to read all the way through so you can get all the latest information and happenings at A Crafty Little Place and Die Cuts R Us.

Sheri did a fantastic tutorial for us last week. The theme? Easel Cards! So, we are going to let you all have a try at it...the challenge this week? Create an easle card of your very own.

Our designers created some wonderful cards too, using the Togetherness DP found at

Die Cuts R Us. Look at how pretty this one is:

Here are what the girls created...

SHERI

Recipe Items found in the DCRU Store:
Paper: Neenah Classic Crest Solar White CS, Prism CS, Togetherness DP Collection (Cosmo Cricket); Stamps: Hannah Lollipop (Lori Boyd/Claudia & Co), So Random Sentiments (Claudia & Co); Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Antique Linen Distress Ink (Tim Holtz); Tools: Copics, Paper Piercer; Other: Ribbon

* * *

NICOLE

Digital Stamp: Lollipop Bumble Bee

Sentiment: So Random Stamp Set

Papers: Cosmo Cricket Togetherness; Red Paper & Yellow Paper

Copics for coloring

* * *

NIKKI

Supplies Used:

Stamps: Just Rite Stampers Just A Note

Ink: Real Red, Baja Breeze, Antique Linen

Paper: Cosmo Cricket Togetherness Reunion, Red, Bazzill Off White

Other: Cosmo Cricket Chipboard, rhinestones, Spellbinders Circle Nestabilities, May Arts Ribbon, Copics, Sponge, pinking shears, sewing machine, dimensionals

* * *

JONI

Recipe:

Cosmo Cricket's Togetherness papers

Claudia and Co. Butterfly Lollipop
Claudia and Co. So Random Sentiments

Basic Grey's Kioshi button

Neenah Cardstock

Copics and Memento Ink

* * *

PIALI

Recipe:

Paper: Cosmo Cricket-Togetherness;

TOGETHERNESS Collection Coordinating Prism Cardstock;

TOGETHERNESS Collection READY-SET CHIPBOARD;

Claudia and Co.- So Random Sentiments Set UpDown Edition;

Scor-tape; Baker's Twine-Red;

* * *

GWEN

Image: O and A - Just For You by TGF

DP: Togetherness by Cosmo Cricket

Brads: Nook and Pantry

Copic Markers; Inkssentials Opaque White Gel Pen; Spellbinders Lacy Squares and Classic Squares; Swiss Dots Embossing Folder; Tim Holtz Tiny Attacher; Memento Ink;

So, are you feeling inspired? Ready to view the tutorial again? Okay, just click HERE and you can view all the deets on how to make one of these little beauties for yourself. Can't wait to see what you create!

SMiLES!

GWeN and the DT

♥ ♥ ♥

Here is a little something special from Claudia...

Hello Everyone! Just wanted to stop by with a couple of announcements. First of all, thank you to everyone who left a comment for the giveaway sponsored by Nikki Sivils; I loved reading every one of them.

Now, on to our first announcement:

Because there so many of you are fans of Nikki Sivils, we'd love for you to create with her wonderful products; so... today through Saturday, all Nikki Sivils products are on sale at Die Cuts R Us for 25% off!

Now, allow me to announce our giveaway winners:

Gram's Treasures

Amanda R.

Tanya

Congratulations ladies! The giveaway package is divided up and ready to go; please email me your addresses to diecutsrus [at] me [dot] com.

Again, a big thank you to Nikki Sivils for hosting our giveaway!

And now, our final announcement:
We will be giving away this American Crafts stamp set to one of our challenge participants.

All you have to do for a chance to win is play along in this week's challenge; we will announce the winner next Tuesday. Can't wait to see your easel card creations! Didn't the design team do a fabulous job? Its truly a blessing working with these amazing and talented ladies.

Have a wonderful week!

Hugs,
Claudia

* ♥ * ♥ * ♥ *

Winners for A Crafty Little Challenge #60

2010-10-18T10:00:00.006-04:00

Happy Monday Everyone!!

Thank you so much for playing along with us in last weeks Color challenge!!

Here are our top picks:

Amanda

Racheal

Sarabeth

and

Our top card pick of the week:

Joan Ervin

Congratulations ladies!!

Please make sure to grab your blog badges HERE!!

Have a wonderful day and please make sure to meet us back here tomorrow for another fun challenge!!

Happy Stamping!!

Giveaway Sponsored by Nikki Sivils

2010-10-15T10:00:00.018-04:00

Hello friends! I am so excited to announce this giveaway. The wonderful ladies over at Nikki Sivils Scrapbooker sent me a package full of goodies to offer as a giveaway here at the Die Cuts R Us store blog!

I had the opportunity to meet Nikki and her amazing staff at CHA this past summer. They were all so nice and helpful; they are just as nice and helpful via email and on the phone. I consider it an honor to carry her products in my store.

She sent so many wonderful goodies, that I am going to divide the products you see below into three packages; this will give three of our wonderful followers a chance to win some Nikki Sivils products! Her designs are just so fun and colorful. That little beaver (at the top) is from her Tree Love collection? He is so adorable!

So what do you have to do to be entered to win? Well, I'll make it super easy for you.

All you have to do is be a follower of our blog, and leave a comment on this post. You have until Monday at 12 noon EST. We will announce the winner on Tuesday, the 19th.

Thank you Nikki and Lanie (who I've been in constant contact with) for your wonderful generosity and support.

Have a blessed weekend!

Hugs,

Inspiration Post: Easel Cards

2010-10-14T10:00:00.006-04:00

Hello ACLP Friends!! It's Sheri here today to share a little inspiration with you!! One of my favorite types of cards to make are Easel Cards. They are super easy to make once you learn the basic construction of the card. The dimensions can be changed to create any size card you like. To get you started I thought I would show you a 5" x 5" Square Card.

Supplies Needed:
Scor-Pal/Scor-Buddy (or any Scor Tool)
Scor-Tape (Redline or other strong Adhesive)
1-5" x 10" Piece of Card Stock
1-5" x 5" Piece of Card Stock
Other: Stamps, Decorative Paper, & Embellishments to complete card.

Step 1: Scor the 5" x 10" piece of card stock at the 5" and 7 1/2".

Step 2:
Take your scor tool and fold all scor lines to create this shape.

Step 3:
Place Scor-Tape to the 2 1/2" x 5" section of the card stock that is facing up.

Step 4:
Attach the 5"x 5" piece of Card Stock to Scor-tape.

Step 5:
Here's your complete Easel card base. Now you can decorate the front & inside of the card. You will need to add an embellishment or an extra layer to the inside in order for the Easel to stand up by itself.

Here's my completed card:

Recipe items found in the DCRU store:
Paper: Neenah Classic Crest Solar White CS, Cupid DP Collection (Pink Paislee's); Stamps: Emma Puddle Jumper (Lori Boyd/Claudia & Co), Sentiment (A Muse); Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black; Tools: Copics, Nestabilities (Spellbinders), Paper Piercer; Other: Twine, Pearls

Hope you were inspired to try this fun technique!!

Happy Stamping!!

Challenge #60 - COLOR!

2010-10-12T10:00:00.001-04:00

Before we announce the new challenge for the week we have to let you know who won the treasure hunt portion of our challenge last week.

Congratulations to:

SHENG VANG

She guessed the following:

Sheri - C.C. Wanted

Gwen - Bo Bunny's Flutter butter

Piali - C.C. Togetherness (her main dp)

Joni - C.C. Earth Love

Nikki - MME Lush

Nicole - DCWV Whimsy

You are the brand new owner of a super awesome sampler pack of dp!

Please email Claudia your address so she can forward your prize to you at:

diecutsrus (at) me (dot) com

Enjoy you booty!

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Who is ready for some C - O - L - O - R?????

We get to focus on the following colors this week: Blue / Brown / Rust / Gold

Our designers worked with the Wanted Sample Pack this week to bring you the following works of art:

NICOLE

Papers: Cosmo Cricut WANTED

Sentiment: So Random Stamp Set

* * *

PIALI

Paper: Cosmo Cricket~ Wanted;

Cosmo cricket~Tiny Type Stickers(clear); Satin Brown Ribbon; Tim Holtz Distress Ink~Vintage Photo;

Tim Holtz Paper Distresser; Kaisercraft BABY BLUE Paper Flowers ; Basic Grey~ Nook & Pantry button;

* * *

NIKKI

Stamps: Cowboy McCoy

Ink: Memento Black, TH Vintage Photo Distress

Paper: Wanted, Kraft, Ocean Tide, Gold Specialty,XPress Blending Card

Other: Twill, star punch, Scoreboard, Ek Success Punch, brads,Circle Nestabilities, Copics

* * *

JONI

Cosmo Cricket's Wanted

Image and sentiment: Oliver & Amelia Journey

Dear Lizzy collection card ribbon

Neenah cardstock

Copics and Memento Ink

Nook and Pantry buttons

Cosmo Cricket's Wanted

Image and sentiment: Oliver & Amelia Journey
Baker's Twine (Brown)

Neenah cardstock

Copics and Memento Ink

* * *

SHERI

Recipe Items from the DCRU Store:
Wanted DP Collection (Cosmo Cricket)
Wanted Ready-Set-Chip Chipboard Collection (Cosmo Cricket)
Labels 15 Nestabilities (Spellbinders)

Now, I know last week was a bit off. I apologize for that. This week is a great way to pick our mojo up and go crazy with it. Hope to see all of you and your projects here before the deadline.
We missed you last time.

Happy creating!!!

SMiLES!
Gwen and the DT

* * *

Sketch Challenge Winners

2010-10-11T10:24:00.000-04:00

Darling Ho!

Heather!

Happy Monday! Last week must have been a busy week for you all out there in blog land! We only had two entries for our sketch challenge! SO, of course here's your TOP 2! Darling Ho and Heather really did showcase the sketch nicely! Thank you both for playing along this week! Be sure to grab your badge and display it proudly on your blog!

Don't forget to come back tomorrow to see the awesome creations the Design Team made using this week's NEW challenge as inspiration! I look forward to seeing tons of entries this week, wink wink!

Enjoy your day!

Stampavie "Mice Kissing" video

2010-10-08T10:00:00.003-04:00

Today I made a Stampavie card "Mice Kissing". I love this stamp, so darn cute. The paper I used is Cosmo Cricket "Togetherness". Sorry about the end credits, I didn't know it went by so fast. LOL. I need to look into it a bit and see how I can slow it down...I'm using a new software. Enjoy your weekend!

Stamp: Stampavie "Mice Kissing"
Paper: Cosmo Cricket "Togetherness"
Copic:
flower: Y02, Y04, Y08, Y17, YR24, YG99, BG99, G99, G94, YG93, G21
mice: E77,E74, E71, E70, E57, E55, E51, E50
clothes: B97, B95, B93, B91, R20, R22, R24, R27, R29
shading: warm grey 90%, french grey 70%, cool grey 90%

Coloring process video:

Challenge #59 - Sketchy Treasure Hunt!!!!

2010-10-05T10:00:00.023-04:00

We decided to kick it up a notch today and give you two challenges in one!
What? Two in one...how so?

Well, its like this, first you have a sketch to use for your challenge project.

It looks a little something like this:

Colorful little bugger isn't it? LOL! Its okay, I can say that because I designed it. Okay, are you getting a vision of your project dancing around in your head? Great!

Now we'll add the second part of the challenge...the "TWIST"...

A DP Treasure Hunt!

Never done this before? Don't feel bad, neither have I, but it sounded like a good idea at the time so we ran with it. Look closely at the DT projects below. Each Designer has used a paper carried at

Die Cuts R Us...you get to tell us what they used.

Oh, yeah...that is the twist, tricky isn't it?

Be sure that you write down the DT Member's Name and the DP they used on their project. You'll be sending your list to me at busylittlehands (@) sbcglobal (dot) net. The person who has the mostest correct answers, gets something fun for all of her hard work!

Here we go...

SHERI

Recipe Items found in the DCRU store:
Paper: Neenah Classic Crest Solar White CS; Stamps: Cowboy McCoy Puddle Jumper (Lori Boyd/Claudia & Co), Sentiment (Paper Pretties); Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black; Other: Copics

* * *

NIKKI

Supplies Used: Stamps Claudia &Co So Random Sentiments

Ink: Riding Hood Red, Antique Linen Distress

Paper: ????? My Mind's Eye Lush Collection Red, Textured Off White, Prism Red

Other: Sizzix Die, Prima Flower, velvet ribbon, Circle Nestabilities, EK Success border punch, Kaiser Pearls, MA Wrinkle Ribbon

* * *

PIALI

Image: Signature Stamps by TGF

* * *

NICOLE

Lollipop Presley Digital Stamp

So Random Stamp Set Sentiment

* * *

JONI

Recipe:

Image: The Greeting Farm (Ruby + Yoga Anya)

Sentiment: Claudia andCo. So Random Up/ Down Edition

Spellbinders Nestabilities

Copics and Memento Ink

* * *

GWEN

Image: TGF - Miss Anya Lounge

Spellbinders Nesting Lacy Circles; 3-D Adhesive Squares; Inkssentials Opaque White Pen; Tim Holtz Distressing Ink

DP: "You Tell Me"...LOL!

So, there you have it...can you guess the DP each desinger used? Remember to send your emails directly to me at busylittlehands (@) sbcglobal (dot) net. These must be received by Sunday at 9:00 PM.

All sketch projects should be linked up below by our usual deadline, as well. Just in case you forgot, that is Sunday at 9:00 PM EST.

Have fun! Happy hunting!

SMiLES!

GWeN and the DT

* * *

Autumn Daze Challenge Winner's

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

It seems that autumn brings out the creativity in us! There were so many wonderful projects entered in this weeks challenge. You ladies make it so hard to pick a winner but here are my picks none-the-less...

#21 - Sarah

#6 - Jacki

#13 - Peggy

DANA #63

Congratulations to you all!

Stop back tomorrow for a brand new challenge...this one has a special twist to it...

SMiLES!

GWeN

Claudia & Company Release Day Blog Hop

2010-10-01T10:00:00.089-04:00

Happy Friday everyone! I am so glad you are here!

If you just arrived from Jessica's blog, then you are right on track! If you just arrived here, please go the beginning of the blog hop HERE; I am actually your last stop!

First, let me just say thank you to Jessica for joining us this month as our guest designer; we were just so excited when she said yes! Jess, you are an amazing crafter, and above all, a wonderful friend!

So what do you think of the wonderful new additions to the Claudia and Company stamp family! Aren't they just the cutest? Our design team did an amazing job on their creations. Wow! Are you ready to go shopping, they are available for purchase now! Just click HERE!

Did you leave a comment at every stop of the hop? We will be giving away a stamp of choice from the new release to one lucky winner! You have until Sunday night at 11:59PM EST to leave your comments. We will announce the winner on Monday at the Claudia and Company blog.

Friends, As you know, October is breast cancer awareness month, and I would like to show my support to a very important cause.

I have been thinking about this for days, and feel that God has put it in my heart to act on.

I will donate $1 for every single Claudia and Company rubber stamp purchased at Die Cuts R Us during the month of October; $2 for every photopolymer/rubber stamp set.

Thank you in advance for your support!

Oh, and have we got a treat for you... treat bags that is! Did you notice these super cute tote/treat bags in some of the cards you saw today? Well, you will receive all three baggies, as a digital stamp, with the purchase of both Princess Chloe and Cowboy McCoy rubber stamps! And, of course, they are illustrated by my wonderful friend Lori Boyd!

Aren't they adorable? They are great to use with any one of our Puddle Jumpers!

Thank you so much for hopping with us today.
Have a blessed weekend!

Awakening Your Spooky Treats!

2010-09-30T10:00:00.003-04:00

Good Morning! Can you believe we are at the end of September already?

Soon enough Halloween will be upon us.

I LOVE Halloween and I've honestly been planning for it since the beginning of school.

Claudia has some really cute Halloween Papers in the store right now.

I used some fun papers by My Mind's Eye that are currently not available. (SORRY! ) You could easily substitute The Cosmo Cricket Matilda line or Echo Park's Halloween Sampler pack for the same look.

I hope to inspire you with a few fun, 3D projects that you can incorporate into your Halloween festivities.

My first project uses a regular paper lunch sack.

I simply cut the top section off and decorated using crepe paper, the Halloween Designer paper, Chipboard Elements and some Thickers that were highlighted with stickles. I think it's really fun to braid a handle using ribbon or in this case the crepe paper. It's a great use of resources and creates a sturdy handle. The handle is attached using hot glue and then concealed with a button tied with Baker's Twine.

Here is the same bag using Basic Grey's Olivia Line of papers:

I created my flower using this fabulous ribbon by May Arts. It's topped off with an Olivia button:) Don't you love when it all matches?

Now I have a few more ways to deliver those YUMMY Halloween treats.

One of my most favorite treats at Halloween is a big bag of Candy Corn mixed in with Salted Peanuts. Can you say "YUMMO!?"

That little french fry box would be the perfect container to hold that treat.

I think my" EEK!" box could hold a few Ghirardelli Chocolates very nicely. The "EEK!" part comes AFTER you step on the scale, though.

The "BOO" container is one of the easiest treat containers to make AND it is a recycled item. LOVE that! Simply take an empty toilet paper container, wrap tissue paper around it. Fill the inside with goodies and twist the ends to tie with yarn, ribbon, etc. I like to wrap it with some designer paper and add a few embellishments to make it even more fun. My googlie-eyed creation is supposed to be a bat. It's ok if you didn't know. I'm not so sure it looks very "batty" myself. I think I should just stick to the Chipboard Elements, don't you ? They are so much easier to use.

Speaking of recycling, I have one last item to share. This will sit in my entry way this Halloween season. Please excuse the photos. It wouldn't fit in my light box.

I used some twigs from my backyard and spray painted them black. My new puppy wanted to eat them:) I was able to save them and then hot glued them inside an old soup can that was first decorated with more Halloween paper and some black trim. My ghosts are tissue paper covered Dum Dums tied with more Bakers' Twine and googlie eyes. Remember making these as kids. We always used Kleenex, but honestly, tissue paper is much cheaper and you can manipulate it better.

That's all for me today. I hope I inspired you to get started on your Halloween treats. These little containers are so easily adaptable to other types of gift giving as well. Hey! If I didn't inspire you then I bet I at least woke up that sweet tooth of yours. Now where did I put that candy?????

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

So Cool I HAD to Share!

2010-09-29T10:45:00.003-04:00

Alrighty ladies and gents, last night one of my team members shared a little project she had created for her daughter's room. When I saw this I knew I had to share it with you. Joni graciously agreed to let me post this one for you, so thanks, Joni!

Okay, the story...Joni picked up a steal of a deal at a yard sale...WANTED DP by Cosmo Cricket...I won't tell you where because I don't want you flooding into the area causing a riot...hehehe. There wasn't enough to go around...hehehe. Joni loved it so much, she had to stock up, and you'll never guess where she bought more...

If you don't know what Wanted looks like, it is gorgeous and it comes in a 6x6 sampler at DCRU.

Now, let me tell you that this dp is a real steal too. You get the four sheets pictured Xs 2! That is 8 - 6x6 sheets for only...are ready...drum roll please....$2.00! YUP! I said it, $2.00! Awesome!

Now if you are thinking this looks a little too "Western" for you, don't fret, thats where our dear Joni comes in. Here is a little impromtu Inspiration Post from her that might make you look at Wanted in a whole new light.

CREATING A FALL DOOR/WALL HANGER

First, using the oval nestie create 12 ovals (you can get 11 from a 12x12 cardstock - lol!)

Then assemble them with different patterns until you are happy with the results.

Then embellish! I used leaves made from scraps, Joy Ride buttons, Nook and Pantry buttons, Quickutz flourishes, and a Kaisercraft baby blue flower. (links are listed below)

Now...that looks incredible to me! I hope you all enjoyed this little yet creative and spendidly pretty piece of inspiration by our very own JONI!

SMiLES!

GWeN

Oval and scalloped nestie: http://www.diecutsrus.com/category_51/Spellbinders.htm

Joy Ride: http://www.diecutsrus.com/item_1478/Joy-Ride-Collection-Buttons.htm

Nook and Pantry: http://www.diecutsrus.com/item_1013/Nook-and-Pantry-Collection-BUTTONS.htm

Quickutz link: http://www.diecutsrus.com/category_144/Quickutz.htm

Kaisercraft flower: http://www.diecutsrus.com/item_2143/Kaisercraft-Paper-Flowers-BABY-BLUE.htm