Effortless Coloring: Stampin’ Blends and the Festive & Fun Stamp Set

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

Are you looking to add a touch of whimsy and color to your holiday cardmaking? Look no further than the delightful Festive & Fun stamp set, coupled with the versatility of Stampin’ Blends markers! Specifically designed for ease and creativity, these tools can transform a our cute giraffe stamp into a vibrant, eye-catching focal point.

One of the standout features of the Festive & Fun stamp set is its charming giraffe illustration. This adorable character becomes a joy to color using Stampin’ Blends. These alcohol-based markers offer smooth and seamless blending, allowing both novice and experienced crafters to achieve professional-looking results effortlessly.

The secret to achieving stunning color depth lies in the layering and blending capabilities of Stampin’ Blends. Begin by selecting your desired shades for the giraffe’s body: Lemon Lolly & Medium Naturals. I used the Real Red, Shaded Spruce and Balmy Blue to color the rest. With the fine and brush tips of the markers, apply the lighter shade as the base layer and gradually add depth by layering the darker shade. I go over again once I lay down the darker color which really blends them and creates a visually appealing finish.

I used the Nested Essentials and Stylish Shapes Dies to highlight my images that are layered upon our festive Beary Christmas Designer Series Paper. I have another card to share … the Designer paper is retired however I wanted to share this fun layout.

Unleash your creativity and bring this adorable giraffe to life with the vivid hues of Stampin’ Blends markers. Even a subtle change in designer papers and layer can add to the festivities! Don’t forget that Wink of Stella on your Star and ornaments!!

Time to grab your Festive & Fun stamp set, Stampin’ Blends markers, and Nested Essentials Dies, and embark on a colorful crafting escapade today!

Thanks for stopping by and Happy crafting!

Twelve Weeks of Christmas: Week 8 / Shutter Card Technique

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Today I will be sharing the LIVE presentation I did for my Twelve Weeks of Christmas. This is Week 8 and I’m sharing how to create the Shutter Card Technique … it is fun and easy! You won’t think that looking at the card, but when I show you how quickly it goes together … you’ll be heading into your craft room to get your stampin’ groove on!!

Check out the card first, and then the video ….

The first two cards are created with the Winter Meadow Designer Series paper …

Just to recap … I used the second (smaller) square die to create the “anchor” to my Shutter Card, then you can layer it as desired. Don’t forget that Wink of Stella on the berries of our Moody Mauve card because it really adds that touch of Christmas glimmer to your card.

What I did not realize is that the Snowflake Foil Specialty paper has already SOLD OUT from the Retiring List, but use this quick and easy technique I shared with “any” designer paper that has a pattern the can be used in any direction.

The two pattern option is really fun and gives your card a wonderful twist. I hope you try out this technique, it really is much simpler than it looks, and I think my demonstration showed that to you.

Thank you so much for stopping by my blog today. I appreciate that.

Have a wonderful day !

Dutch Door Christmas Card

Good Morning Stampin’ Friends,

I hope you enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving with friends / family. I enjoyed a nice afternoon with family … two of my older grandsons popping in to say hi was a real treat, and then a family friend also joined up.

If you enjoyed my last post with the October “Home for the Holidays” Paper Pumpkin kit, I have one more Alternative Project I just had to share! That is just a festive wonderland of creativity, filled with elements perfect for spreading seasonal cheer. Crafting with these kits opens up endless possibilities, allowing us to think beyond the prescribed instructions and venture into unique projects.

The one particularly exciting alternative project that emerged from my head involved a playful twist on traditional card designs. I took the card front and gave it a little snip—right down the middle— lol. It creates a gateway to fun! I cut my card at 3 1/4″ to the center fold.

By cutting the card front in half, a whole new world of creative opportunities opened up…. I glued the top half of the card “shut”!! I used one of the “house layers” and attached it to the lower half of the card front …. I call this my Dutch Door Card!!

With a touch of glitter glue included in the kit, the divided front turned into an eye-catching feature. The houses became focal points that bridged the gap between the split sections, creating an element of surprise when the card was opened or displayed.

I also used the strips between the glitter banners to hide the raw edge of the top flap on the inside and behind my greeting to highlight it … bling never hurts!! I also added the Festive Pearls to add a pop of color at the bottom of the card.

Crafting is an adventure, and these kits offer the chance to put your imaginative twist on things. The Home for the Holidays Pumpkin kit was a treasure trove of elements waiting to be reimagined, allowing us to create something uniquely ours.

Each monthly kit is another adventure to experience and explore your creativity. That’s one reason I think it’s the perfect gift … whether their new to stamping and crafting or have years of experience.

Thank you for spending your time with me, and checking out my latest creation. Have a wonderful day.

Purchase a Paper Pumpkin Subscription and receive a FREE Tote bag from me ....

A Beary Cute Christmas Together

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Today I have a “Beary Cute” card for you from a fellow design artist from the Tutorial Group I am part of. You will get the measurement and instructions to recreate this card yourself. If you don’t have these supplies yet, I will have everything listed at the end of the tutorial. Enjoy ….

Measurements:

  • Real Red : 5 ½ x 8 ½
  • Basic White: 4” x 5 ¼”

Instructions:

  • Score and fold the Real Red cardstock at 4 ¼.
  • Stamp the bears using Memento Black ink.
  • Use the Versamark ink pad to stamp the snowflakes randomly on the Basic White cardstock.
  • Sprinkle White Embossing Powder on cardstock and tap off excess.
  • Heat until totally melted using the Heat Tool. Adhere the layer to the card.
  • Stamp the greeting on Real Red cardstock using Memento black ink. Cut each line using a Paper Trimmer. Adhere the greeting using Dimensionals.
  • Stamp the scarf and hat on a piece of Basic White cardstock. Cut them out using Paper Snips. Add them to the card using Dimensionals.

So cute and so simple to make!! I hope you enjoyed today’s card share and felt inspired to pull out your stamps and start creating.

Thank you for stopping by today ~

The Enchanting world of the Oh Holy Night Product Suite

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

Welcome to an exciting showcase of holiday magic! Today, I’m thrilled to share a captivating video replay from my Facebook journey, unveiling the enchanting world of the Oh Holy Night product suite. As we dive into the festive season, join me in exploring the three cards that serve as luminous beacons, each illuminating a unique facet of this delightful collection. Let the festivities begin!

Glory to God Card …

Measurements for Glory to God:

Night of Navy Base: 8 ½” x 5 ½” / Score & Fold at 4 ¼”

Vanilla (Front/Inside) Cut 2 – 5 ¼” x 4”

Gold: 3” x 3”

Designer Paper: 2 ¾” x 2 ¾”

Ribbon as needed / Stampin’ Dimensionals

Joy and Peace Card …

Here is another view so you can see the dimension!!

Measurements for Joy & Peace Card

White Base: 8 ½” x 5 ½” / Score & Fold at 4 ¼” / Plus enough Whisper to cut out 4 point star and stamp greeting

Pretty Peacock Mat:  5 ¼” x 4”

Hologram Trio Specialty Paper: 5” x 3 24” plus enough to cut a star out

The Lord is my Shepard Card …

Measurements for Joy & Peace Card

Night of Navy Card Base: 9 1/4” x 8″ / Score & Fold at 4″

Basic White (Front & Inside) Cut 2 – 9″ x 3 3/4″ pieces, plus enough Basic White to cut out 4 point star and stamp greeting

Designer Paper: 8 3/4″ x 3 1/2″

Black scrap to cut out camel and king

As we wrap up this festive journey through the Oh Holy Night product suite, I hope the video highlighted the three radiant cards and have sparked a sense of holiday wonder in your hearts. As you explore the possibilities within this enchanting collection, may you find the perfect expressions to share with your loved ones or add a touch of holiday spirit to your surroundings.

Thanks for joining me today ~

🌟🎄 #OhHolyNightMagic #HolidayJoy #FestiveRevelry

Celebrate the Season with the Joy of Christmas Suite

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Today we will be celebrating the upcoming season with the Joy of Christmas Suite. Many of you are beginning your holiday cardmaking, and what better way to do so than with beautiful handmade Christmas cards? The Joy of Christmas Suite from Stampin’ Up! offers everything you need to create stunning holiday greetings that will warm the hearts of your loved ones.

In this blog post, we’ll focus on two exquisite components of this suite: the Joy of Noel dies and the Joyful 12 x 12 Specialty Designer Paper. I’ll also demonstrate how to make a simple yet elegant Christmas card, embellished with Gold Festive Pearls, using Cherry Cobbler cardstock and Gold Foil. Let’s dive into the world of festive creativity!

The Joy of Noel dies are the perfect addition to your crafting arsenal this holiday season. These intricate dies allow you to effortlessly create stunning holiday-themed designs that will leave a lasting impression. One of the standout features of these dies is the word “Noel,” which adds a touch of elegance to any project.

The Joyful 12 x 12 Specialty Designer Paper is a delightful collection of holiday-themed patterns and designs. With its rich color palette and intricate patterns, this paper is ideal for creating beautiful cards and projects. It includes metallic accents that add a touch of opulence to your creations, making it the perfect choice for your Christmas-themed projects.

  • Cherry Cobbler cardstock (8.5″ x 5.5″, folded in half to create a 4.25″ x 5.5″ card base)
  • Gold Foil (4″ x 5.25″)
  • Joyful 12 x 12 Specialty Designer Paper (3.75″ x 5″)

Using the Joy of Noel dies and a die-cutting machine, cut out the word “Noel” from the Gold Foil. This is a great paper saving technique. Now you can attach the Gold Foil to your Cherry Cobbler Cardbase, and the Joyful Designer paper over that. Using Dimensionals, attach your “NOEL” to the cardfront.

Add Gold Festive Pearls to the card to enhance its elegance. You can place them strategically around the “Noel” die-cut or as you prefer.

With the Joy of Noel dies, Joyful 12 x 12 Specialty Designer Paper, and other coordinating products, you can create beautiful, heartfelt Christmas cards that will bring joy to your loved ones. This simple yet elegant card, adorned with Gold Festive Pearls, is just a glimpse of the endless possibilities this suite offers.

So, gather your supplies, let your creativity shine, and share the magic of Christmas with handmade cards that truly convey the spirit of the season.

Happy crafting ~

From Scraps to a Stunning Christmas Card

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

What do you do with your scraps when cutting for your main cards? Rather than letting them collect dust or tossing them, why not turn them into something extraordinary? In this blog post, I’ll walk you through a creative endeavor using leftover pieces of the Joy of Christmas designer paper. Get ready to unlock the full potential of those remnants!

I used leftover pieces of Joy of Christmas designer paper to create my background. Then, I gathered up my Joy of Noel bundle to compliment the designer paper, and some vellum cardstock along with the Nested Essentials Dies … to create my focal point.

From the Joy of Noel bundle, I chose the NOEL for my project’s theme. In this instance, the greeting was selected to serve as the focal point. The choice of stamp sets the tone for the entire piece.

Utilizing the Nested Essentials dies to cut the vellum cardstock …. the translucent quality of vellum adds a touch of sophistication to your creations, enhancing the overall visual appeal. When you layer the vellum over the leftover designer paper it allows the intricate patterns to peek through. This layering technique adds depth and visual interest.

I took my creation a step further by incorporating additional embellishments, which were created by stamping, coloring and cutting out the holly leaves from the Joy of Noel bundle. I also used the Festive Pearls to complement the color scheme and theme of the project.

Don’t let those leftover designer paper scraps go to waste. With a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you can transform them into stunning works of art. In this project, I repurposed remnants of Joy of Noel designer paper and combined them with vellum to create a visually captivating masterpiece.

So, the next time you find yourself with leftover paper, remember – the possibilities are endless! Happy Crafting!

Throwback Thursday: From Gift Tags to Cool Cards!

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

When it comes to crafting, there’s no shortage of creative possibilities. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, our Stampin’ Up! Kits Collections and Paper Pumpkin Kits are fantastic resources that offer a wide range of creative opportunities. In this blog post, I’ll share how you can expand your versatility of these kits and how they can inspire your crafting journey.

If you enjoy regular doses of creative inspiration, Paper Pumpkin Kits are the way to go. These subscription kits are delivered to your doorstep every month, containing exclusive stamp sets, ink, and all the materials required for a particular project. Each month, the theme changes, keeping your creative juices flowing.

I’m sharing the video replay along with the photos and the alternative projects, this will give you an idea of how you can change up some of our current kits, and I’ll share them with you below.

How cute and how simple, right! Let’s start with the “Candy Cane” tag ….

And now for the card…

You can create this super simple alternative card with a Mint Macaron card base and the magic of a quarter sheet of the Snowflake Specialty paper.

Here is a look at the “Santa” tag ….

To create this card you simply stamp the background as shown in the video …

and with a few additional colors added, Cherry Cobbler mat and the Crumb Cake card base, you end up with a fun card.

Let’s take a look at our last tag, the “Express Delivery ….

Another easy alternative to the tag is the next card ….

I used the Brick Embossing Folder on the 3 – 4″ x 1-1/2″ strips layered onto a Basic White Base. Don’t you love using the “scrap” little dots from the tag for an embellishment!?

You may have noticed that I stuck pretty close to what was in the kit except for the cardstock. I did have a little more fun with my fourth card….

I used a Basic White cardbase and one of the cards from the Santa Expess Memories and More Card kit for my background. The white circle and the sparkly tag are from the kit and then I added the snowflake from the Wonderful Snowflakes embellishments. Speaking of embellishments …. I also added a few Iridescent Rhinestone for even more bling!

I hope you enjoyed all the alternative projects created here for you, but now let me share a current kit that you could use in the same way as I did with these projects. Let me introduce you to the Festive Tags Kit … perfect for this application and you’ll get 15 tags for only $13!!

Thanks for joining me. Have a great day and happy crafting ~

A Beary Merry Christmas

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

ooking for a great way to spread cheer with a heartfelt, handcrafted Christmas card to your loved ones? Today, I’m excited to showcase the Beary Cute Christmas bundle, a delightful collection of stamps, designer paper, and a bear punch that will help you create charming and festive cards. Whether you prefer the personal touch of hand stamping or the convenience of designer paper, this bundle has you covered.

Here is a replay of my Facebook LIVE that will take you step by step through 2 different style cards….

Let’s take a close up look that those cards. We’ll start with the card that I created with the designer paper. There are so many cute animal figures that you can fussy cut to create any layout you wish.

The next card is also from the video and used a soft background created with the blending brushes to create the focal point, just as I did on the first card with the vellum circle from the Stylish Shapes die. The Real Red really makes this card striking! Let’s take a look ….

I shared a third card on the video that has the same layout as the card above, but instead of embossing the card front with the Snowflake embossing folder, I used the Stitched with Whimsy to create a border that adds texture in a totally different way….

With the Stitched with Whimsy dies, I stamped the greeting directly onto the front but then added a Real Red mat behind my card front to really pull the “red” out! Totally making it pop! Both are cute, but even with the exact same layout, they look so different.

The Beary Cute Christmas bundle offers a delightful and versatile way to create charming Christmas cards. This bundle provides you with everything you need to spread holiday joy. So, gather your supplies, unleash your creativity, and start crafting those beary cute cards to share with your friends and family this holiday season.

Happy crafting!

Beary Cute Gifts For You

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

Yesterday, we explored the Beary Christmas Memories and More Card pack, and I showed you how to create some delightful and easy-to-make holiday cards. Today, we’re continuing our creative journey with these cards by exploring the art of layering. I’m using the same two cards, and cutting out the presents on one to layering a few onto the first card … you can actually get two card from 3 of these 4′” x 6″ present cards.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of crafting is experimenting with different techniques and materials to make your creations stand out. Layering is a fantastic way to enhance the visual appeal of your cards. The key to successful card layering is to be adventurous and have fun.

Layering looks great with texture so I used the Stitched with Whimsey dies to create some fun texture around the edge. I added Wink of Stella to each of the bows on the packages that I popped up. My greeting was stamped in Old Olive from the Sparkling Snowflakes stamp set and then die cut with the banners from the Stylish Shapes dies.

So, if you’re ready to have some fun with your holiday card-making, give this layering tip a try. The Beary Christmas Memories and More Card pack offers an excellent canvas to spark your creativity. With a little patience and a sprinkle of festive magic, your layered presents will be sure to spread joy and cheer to your loved ones this holiday season.

Hope the cards that I have shared these past two days have inspired you to try some fun and easy layering techniques.

Thank you for checking out my blog … Have a great day.

Jolly & Bright Christmas …

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

We maybe celebrating Halloween on my Facebook Page but here on my blog … it’s all about Christmas. It is sneaking up on us quickly so I’m hoping to inspire you with today’s cutie from the Merry & Bright Bundle!

Measurements: 

  • Lemon Lime Twist: 5 ½” x 8 ½”
  • Basic Black: scraps
  • Real Red: scrap
  • Shaded Spruce: scrap
  • Granny Apple Green: scrap
  • Crushed Curry: scrap
  • Melon Mamo & Granny Apple Green Foil: scraps
  • Night of Navy Shimmer: scrap
  • Vellum: 2 ½” x 3 ¼”
  • Merry Bold & Bright: 3 ¾” x 5”

Instructions:

  • Cut a 5 ½” x 8 ½” Lemon Lime Twist card base. Fold in half.
  • Cut a 3 ¾” x 5” multi-color designer paper panel.
  • Round the corners of the designer paper using the circle punch.
  • Adhere the designer paper to the card base.
  • Cut a 2 3/8” x 3” piece of vellum using the Nested Essentials dies.
  • Stamp the sentiment pieces onto a scrap piece of Shaded Spruce, Real Red, & Granny Apple Green cardstock using Craft White ink. Let dry completely. Cut.
  • Lay the sentiment pieces onto the vellum for placement.
  • Stamp “Jolly” onto the vellum using Jet Black Stazon ink.
  • Adhere the sentiment pieces to the label using Stampin’ Dimensionals.
  • Add adhesive ONLY to the BACKSIDE of the sentiment behind the cardstock pieces.
  • Adhere the label to the card front.
  • Cut a star from Crushed Curry cardstock and adhere to the top of the sentiment using a Stampin’ Dimensional.
  • Cut a light bulb from Melon Mambo Foil, Granny Apple Green Foil and Night of Navy Soft Shimmer paper.
  • Cut the wire and (3) bulb sets from Basic Black cardstock.
  • Adhere the colored bulbs to the bulb pieces.
  • Slide the completed bulbs onto the wire and adhere to the card front using Stampin’ Dimensionals. Tack the ends of the wire if needed.

Thank you for stopping by today, I hope this fuels your holiday stamping. Some of my stamping friends are done, and some are like me and haven’t started YET!! Have YOU started your holiday cardmaking?

Have a great day ~

Creating Spooktacular Mummy Cards …

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Are you ready to get into the Halloween spirit without breaking the bank? Look no further! Our clearance rack is brimming with a fabulous deal just in time for spooky season. For a mere $2.40, you can grab a pack of high-quality linen paper that’s perfect for crafting some eerie and adorable Halloween mummy cards.

These mummy cards are a breeze to make. With some simple materials and a little creativity, you can have a stack of charming, handcrafted cards in no time. Better yet … you can watch my video. Feel free to use any designer paper and greeting you have on hand!

In a world where store-bought cards can be expensive and lack that personal touch, crafting your own mummy cards is a great way to spread the Halloween spirit without emptying your wallet.

Don’t miss out on this incredible clearance deal. Hurry to my store or click on the link below and grab your linen paper for $2.40 before it vanishes into thin air. Create memorable mummy cards and celebrate Halloween in a budget-friendly and creative way.

Happy crafting! 🎃👻

Halloween Week on my Facebook page (Click Here to Join in) and don’t forget to hit the notifications button so you don’t miss out on any Samples / Tips / Specials and FUN!

Twelve Weeks of Christmas: Week 2 / Pretty Paper

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

Today I’ll be sharing the cards we made last night during the LIVE, the Video replay, the measurement sheets and two extra cards!! I have an action packed day for you today. Let’s begin with the video with the measurements and cards to follow.

Here is the measurements for our Double View Designer Paper card that highlights your designer paper showing both sides .. Our pretty papers make these easy to assemble cards with the message and feelings you intend.

On today’s cards I used the Merry & Bright and the Walk in the Woods Designer Series papers, with the Poppy Parade and Pretty Peacock cardstocks. The “Christmas is Better Together” greeting comes from the Beary Cute Bundle and the “Happy Holidays” came from the Throughout the Year stamp set. Both greetings were die cut from the Nested Essentials Dies.

For the fun fold I used the same designer paper and cardstock. On the Poppy Parade card I again used the Throughout the Year stamp set and the 2 3/8″ punch for our greeting, and then embellished with the Iridescent Rhinestones. The greeting, the tag & tree dies all come from the Merriest Tree Bundle.

Now let’s take a look at some alternatives for our Quick & Easy Double View card ….

On this card I used the designer paper, greeting and die all from the All About Autumn suite of products and the Elegant Borders Dies. This adds a beautiful touch to the stunning designer paper. This just shows that you can change up the 1 1/4″ section of our cardstock.

Our second card was designed to celebrate Halloween …

This little cutie screams fun! The Elegant Borders dies were also used on our Halloween card to enhance and create a fun border. A strip of designer paper and bakers twine were also used to embellish our card and tie in all the colors. I used the “Them Bones” Designer paper for our last card, along with the die cuts from the “Tricks and Treats” bundle.

And this brings me into more Halloween FUN on my Facebook page …. Be sure to head on over and join in the fun, games and specials!

Twelve Weeks of Christmas: LIVE Tonight

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

Are you ready to explore the world of stunning Stampin’ Up! designer papers and take your cardmaking skills to the next level? If so, you’re in for a treat! Tonight I’m going LIVE with Week #2 of my Twelve Weeks of Christmas.

📆 Date: Today 10/24/23

🕕 Time: 6:30 pm Central Time

📍 Location: Facebook Live Event / Click Here

This evening, I’m thrilled to invite you to a Facebook Live event where we’ll dive into the art of showcasing these beautiful designer papers. I’ll be sharing not one, but TWO incredible ways to make your creations shine.

🌟 Quick & Simple Layout for Easy Cardmaking: Perfect for beginners and those who love a straightforward approach to crafting. You’ll learn how to create stunning cards with ease, using the charm of Stampin’ Up! designer papers.

🎉 Fun Fold Design for That Extra WOW Factor: For those looking to elevate their card game, I’ve got a delightful fun fold that’s bound to impress both you and the lucky recipient of your masterpiece.

To join, simply visit my Facebook page at [Linda’s Stampin’ Escape] at 6:30 Central Time. Make sure to click the notification bell so you don’t miss a thing!

Don’t miss out on the fun – we can’t wait to see you there! 💖✂️💌

See you tonight! 🌈

#CraftingWithPassion #StampinUp #FacebookLive

Autumn Leaves Card …

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

If you’re looking for a quick card that anyone would love to receive then you’re in for a treat today. This gorgeous card was created with the Autumn Leaves Bundle and the All About Autumn Designer Paper ….

Measurements:

  • Very Vanilla: 4 ¼ by 11 AND 1 x 4 strip for sentiment
  • All About Autumn DSP: 4 x 5 ¼ and the scrap for the leave dies
  • Linen Thread approx 10 inches for the bow

Instructions:

  • Score the very vanilla card base at 5 ½
  • Glue the all about autumn DSP layer to the card base
  • Stamp the sentiment on the very vanilla strip
  • Die cute the leaves out of the all about autumn scrap
  • Attach the sentiment to the DSP with dimensionals
  • Attach the leaves with dimensionals and the linen thread bow with a glue dot add the speckled dot
  • Mail this cute out to a friend or family member

Thank you for joining me today! Have a great week.