WWSD?

WWSD?  That's become my new mantra in my stamp room.  It means "What would Shelli Do?"  See, I like to think that I'm a pretty OK stamper when it comes to basic cards and 3D items for my class participants to recreate.

But, when it comes to the vintage/shabby chic look, I need some more practice and Shelli Gardner, the founder and CEO of Stampin' Up! is a master at these things.  She makes the most beautiful creations with all the little extra special touches on them.  She goes a few steps further on things than I usually do.  So when I've been working on some over-the-top projects the past few weeks, I ask myself, what would Shelli do? And then I try to add a few extra special touches to the projects just like Shelli would. How has it worked?  I'll let you be the judge with these ornaments:

Colors: Very Vanilla, Cherry Cobbler, Early Espresso and Always Artichoke.  Stamp Set: Pines & Poinsettias. Big Shot: Square Scallop Duo.  Tools: Simply Scored. Punches: 1-1/4" circle punch, Curly and Modern Label, Jewelry Tag.  Accessories: Markers, First Edition Specialty Designer Series Paper, Champagne Glass Stampin' Glitter, Antique and Metallic Brads, Victoria Lace, Velvet Stitched and Quilted Satin Ribbon, Seam Binding, Pearl Jewels and Vintage Trinkets, Shimmer Paint.

Just the list of accessories I used alone is about twice what I would normally have used on any given project. So maybe that is a step in the right direction. It's hard to tell from the picture, but when these were all put together, I spritz them with a combination of Shimmer Paint and rubbing alcohol so they really do just sparkle.  They'd look so pretty on a tree or as an extra special gift tag.

These were inspired by some ornaments I saw on Kimberley VanDiepen's stampinbythesea.com.  I'm offering them at my class this next weekend if you want to make some of your own. Last day to RSVP is tomorrow, Tuesday, November 15.   I also plan to make several more both for my own tree and as gifts this holiday season.

So when you find yourself with a project in front of you and you just aren't sure what it's missing, just ask yourself, WWSD?  I hope it works for you too.