I am using PS 7 which doesn't have the warp tool (or I am retarded and just don't see it) so can you all suggest some ideas for ways to warp things easily? Or point out why I am not seeing it my version of PS if it does indeed exist?

I have seen some tutorials that use it (pouring water and Christmas ornaments are two I can think of off the top of my head) and it seems like this is a valuable tool to have.

Short of upgrading, what else should I try? I am not getting the right effects using the distort, skew or perspective tools.

Thanks for any help!

~Delia

Warp was introduced in CS2. Try to see if the Liquify tool can get you where you want

has ps7 got the SMUDGE tool ?

Yes it does, I use it quite a bit for my paintings.

Ahhh, didn't think about liquify. It might work for some of the things I have been looking at if I don't overdo it.

I think you should use Filter> Distort> shear... for the wrap tool alternative. I have read in a book...in previous versions of PS..people use that filter for wrap purpose.
Hope that helps...

Most of this was done in CS (no warp) with Wave, Shear and Liquify

Also, try to tame the Distort - Displace filter

http://mrroggers.wordpress.com/2007/07/24/wrapping-objects-with-displacement-map-filter-in-photoshop-7/

agree and from doing "freeze" tutorial with the "wind" effect I realize if you rotate your image temporarily you can get more out of what you have. Below is an example using what acemanoj mentioned mixed with rotating the image

i totally misunderstood your needs !