Category Archives: HANDMADE CARDS

Simply Sunday: Paper Pumpkin Alternative Card

Posted in HANDMADE CARDS, Paper Pumpkin by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Today’s card steps back in time with the October 2023 Paper Pumpkin kit, Home for the Holidays, is perfect for spreading seasonal cheer. While the kit itself is brimming with gorgeous supplies for traditional cards, I couldn’t resist creating an alternative design that stretches the kit even further. Enter today’s featured project: a festive fun fold card that’s not only easy to recreate but also maximizes the value of your kit. With this design, you can use the leftover elements to craft additional cards, giving you even more bang for your buck!

Paper Pumpkin is a crafter’s dream come true! Imagine receiving an adorable box each month, filled with everything you need to create beautiful, handmade projects—stamps, ink, paper, and pre-cut elements—all delivered straight to your doorstep. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, Paper Pumpkin makes creativity effortless and fun. It’s also a fantastic gift for friends or family who love crafting or want to try something new. Imagine the joy of giving (or receiving!) the gift of monthly crafting fun.

The fun fold design adds an extra touch of flair, making your handmade card stand out while keeping the process simple. I love that this alternative card still reflects the cozy, nostalgic feel of the Home for the Holidays theme, while letting you put your own creative twist on it. Imagine the smiles your friends and family will have when they receive a card that opens in such a delightful way—it’s like giving a little gift within the card itself.

One of the best things about Paper Pumpkin is how versatile it is. Whether you follow the kit instructions or explore alternative ideas like this one, the possibilities are endless. Plus, the included exclusive stamp set and ink spot can be used on future projects, adding even more value to your crafting stash.

If you’re not already a Paper Pumpkin subscriber, now is the perfect time to join the fun or give the gift of creativity to someone special. Subscriptions are flexible, making them a great option for holiday gifts or year-round crafting joy. Click HERE to Learn More About Paper Pumpkin

P.S. Don’t forget to subscribe by the 10th of each month to get in on the next kit. I can’t wait to see what YOU create! Here’s a peak at next months Paper Pumpkin!

Thank You for joining me today.

Simple Elegance with the Changing Leaves Bundle

Posted in HANDMADE CARDS by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

First, let me welcome my NEW Subscribers; welcome to our creative community! I’m excited to have you …. and excited to share today’s card with all of you!! It’s simply stunning and so simple to recreate … let’s begin!

This project proves that sometimes, less is more, and simplicity can absolutely shine! Using a rich palette of Very Vanilla and Gold, this card exudes elegance and warmth—perfect for my “thank you” … the upcoming season or any occasion that calls for a touch of class.

The card starts with a classic A2 card base in Very Vanilla. The magic begins with a 4” x 5-1/4” piece of Very Vanilla cardstock embossed using the Changing Leaves Hybrid Embossing Folder. This will be attached directly to the base. If you haven’t used a hybrid folder before, you’re in for a treat! It’s called “hybrid” because it embosses and cuts images with the coordinating dies—such a clever and time-saving design.

To add dimension and interest, I die-cut some delicate leaves using the coordinating dies from the bundle. These layered onto the embossed background create a look that’s both understated and elegant. For the sentiment, I turned to the Changing Leaves Stamp Set. Everything in this bundle works seamlessly together—the stamps, the dies, and the embossing folder! Using VersaMark Ink, I stamped the sentiment onto Very Vanilla cardstock and heat-embossed it with our new Gold Embossing Powder. The metallic finish adds such a stunning and cohesive touch to the design.

The sentiment was die cut —you guessed it— using the coordinating die from the bundle! A few of the Woven Golden leaves and gold Opal Rounds were added around it to draw the eye and provide just the right amount of embellishment. I kept the card simple to let the embossed details and gold accents shine, proving that with the right tools, you can create something truly exquisite without spending hours at your craft table.

You can order the Changing Leaves Bundle directly from me—just click here to shop. And don’t forget to grab the Gold Embossing Powder while you’re at it! Remember, the “embossing folder” is included in the bundle. If you have any questions or need help placing your order, I’m always here to assist you. I’d love to see what you create with this bundle, so feel free to share your projects or tag me on social media.

Happy stamping, and remember: with the right tools, anything is possible!

Masculine Cards with the Trusty Toolbox Designer Paper

Posted in HANDMADE CARDS, Man Cards by

Hello Stampin’ Friends, 

Today, I’m thrilled to share a fabulous budget-friendly find and a creative project with a masculine twist! The Trusty Toolbox Designer Paper is now on sale in the Clearance Rack for just $5—talk about a steal! Masculine cards don’t always take center stage, but this collection of patterns makes it a breeze to create cards perfect for the men in your life.

Even at Christmas time—guys still have special occasions that deserve a personal touch; from birthdays to anniversaries, we can still create special cards to show our love.

Let’s dive into four amazing cards, created by me and the talented design team I’m part of, to inspire your next project. ….

Measurements:

  • Cardstock: Basic Black 8 ½” x 5 ½” Scored and folded at 4 ¼”
  • Cardstock 2:  Basic White: 5 ¼” x 4” (Inside) and scrap for greeting
  • Cardstock 3: Poppy Parade 5 ¼” x 4”
  • Designer Paper: Grid Design: 5” x 3 ¾” plus fussy cut 2 pencils / tape measure and cut strip of tape measure DSP
  • Vellum Cardstock: Scrap piece large enough to die cut postage die

Instructions:

  • Score and fold Black cardstock at 4 ¼” / Attach White cardstock to inside
  • Attach Grid design designer paper onto Poppy Parade and then attach to front of cardstock
  • Stamp greeting with Poppy Parade Ink  onto scrap white cardstock and fussy cut.  Attach it to strip of tape measure design and piece together using dimensionals.
  • After fussy cutting designer paper elements, attach them to tape measure designer paper with dimensionals (as shown on sample).
  • Die cut postage rectangle from Vellum Cardstock and secure with Stampin’ Seal  to left hand side of cardfront, leaving a nice border around the other 3 sides.
  • Remove backs from dimensionals and attach your assembly to cardfront over vellum.
  • Using hearts die from the Sending Love dies, die cut from Poppy Parade and attach with Glue Dots. 
  • Send the love ❤

This card, designed by one of my team members, uses the tools from the Designer Paper as a focal point. It’s a clever way to celebrate special occasions with a nod to precision and craftsmanship.

These trusty tools were fussy cut and arranged in an explosion of excitement to celebrate a birthday … how fun is this card!!

This last card is similar to mine but uses the coordinating stamps verses the designer paper like I used …. using the stamps and dies, you’ll always have it handy!!

At only $5, the Trusty Toolbox Designer Paper is a deal you don’t want to miss. Combine it with the stamp set and dies to create cards that are meaningful, masculine, and oh-so-memorable. Whether you’re crafting for birthdays, anniversaries, or even Christmas, this collection makes it easy to stay on budget while crafting beautiful cards.

Head to my online store now to snag these great deals and get started on your next masculine masterpiece. Don’t forget to share your creations—I’d love to see what you come up with!

Thanks for stopping by,

Stocking Stuffer Ideas for your Craft-Loving Family Members

Posted in HANDMADE CARDS, Promotions / Deals by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

The holiday season is just around the corner, and finding the perfect stocking stuffers for the crafter in your life can be just as rewarding as unwrapping them! Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned scrapbooker or a new card-making enthusiast, these affordable and versatile items from Stampin’ Up! are sure to delight. Plus, they’re not just gifts—they’re invitations to creativity!

Here are two of my favorites … fantastic picks that are easy on the budget, full of crafting potential, and brimming with creative possibilities:

1. Just Kidding 12 x 12 Designer Paper — $5.00

This vibrant and heartwarming paper pack is a crafter’s dream! With colorful patterns that celebrate the high spirits of childhood, this Designer Series Paper makes creating whimsical cards and scrapbook pages a breeze.

What makes this paper extra special? It supports inclusivity with designs featuring children of all abilities, including those with service dogs or in wheelchairs. Imagine gifting someone the opportunity to craft projects that reflect their values and touch the hearts of those they love.

The first card uses this fun designer paper with a fun fold card …. the Faux Step Card. You can CLICK HERE to see how these two FUN FOLD Cards were made!

Our second card highlights the Just Kidding Designer paper and the Book Binder Technique!

On our next card, we just show how quick and simple your card can be, while expressing your feelings. This designer paper has so many fun designs including kids baking, reading, playing outside, sharing and so much more!

My last card highlighting the Just Kidding Designer paper features the Faux Shutter Card Technique which I shared during my Facebook LIVE this past Tuesday! Super fun to do.

Here are some additional Creative Ideas:

  • Quick Holiday Cards: Pair the paper with a simple stamped sentiment to create cheerful holiday greetings.
  • Gift Tags with Personality: Cut out the playful patterns to design unique gift tags that stand out under the tree.
  • Scrapbook Joy: Use this paper to highlight family memories, adding a playful touch to holiday albums.

2. Square Pillow Boxes — $3.20 for 10 (Clearance Rack)

Affordable, adorable, and versatile, these pillow boxes are the perfect way to wrap small gifts with a personal touch. They’re pre-scored and include adhesive flaps, making them easy to assemble—even during the holiday rush!

The best part? These boxes are stampable, so you can match them to any occasion, from Christmas to birthdays and beyond. Perfect for Teacher Gifts, Birthday Parties, and more! How would YOU use these adorable boxes?

More Creative Ideas:

  • Mini Treat Holders: Fill them with candies, homemade cookies, or tea bags for a sweet surprise.
  • Craft Kits-to-Go: Add a few embellishments, die-cuts, and ribbons for a DIY kit your recipient can assemble themselves.
  • Personalized Packaging: Stamp snowflakes, holly leaves, or other festive images to create one-of-a-kind gift wrapping.

Both of these items are budget-friendly, with incredible value packed into every purchase. The Square Pillow Boxes come pre-cut and scored, which is a great time saver, while the Designer Paper offers ready-to-use patterns. You can use these two products together to create something fun and unique!!

Clearance Rack Perks: Shopping the Clearance Rack means snagging high-quality products at unbeatable prices!

Ready to make this holiday season extra creative …. and give the gift of inspiration? Just click on the links below, either one will take you directly to my store for that product! Easy Peasy.

Thanks for joining me today!

Sharing One of my Favorites: Country Birdhouse

Posted in HANDMADE CARDS, Promotions / Deals by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

I am so excited to share some great news with you today—our Stampin’ Up! Seasonal Sale has officially begun! This is an ideal time to stock up on essentials and splurge on a few new treats for yourself. Right before the holiday rush, you can shop for all the goodies you need for your projects (and maybe add a little something just for you)!

If you’re like me and can’t resist a good bundle, you’re in for a treat. Not only do bundles in the 2024-2025 Annual Catalog offer an incredible 10% discount every day, but during this sale, you’ll get an extra 10% off! That’s a full 20% off—a fantastic opportunity to snag that bundle you’ve been eyeing or gift yourself a creative boost.

One of my absolute favorite bundles this year is the Country Birdhouse. This bundle has been a joy to create with—it’s versatile, beautiful, and has endless possibilities for card-making. The stamp set features the birdhouse, flowers and beautiful sentiments, and the coordinating dies add that extra bit of polish and flair to any project. Here’s a look at a few cards I’ve made using this bundle that might just inspire you too:

Card 1: With soft, elegant tones and intricate layering, this card makes a beautiful choice for any occasion. The bird and flowers add such a lovely touch, making it perfect for sending warm wishes to someone special.

Card 2: I adore this one because it’s a bit more playful and colorful! Paired with the Country Woods Designer Series paper, it’s fun and versatile for birthdays or just a cheerful “hello” to brighten someone’s day.

Card 3: For those who love a touch of elegance, this card shows off the bundle’s potential for more formal designs. Paired with Moody Mauve and Pretty in Pink, it’s a stunning combination to say hello to a good friend.

What’s on Sale: Bundles, Designer Paper, Cardstock, and Select Ink Pads!

It’s not just bundles on sale; you’ll also find Designer Paper, Cardstock, and select Ink Pads at discounted prices. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of shimmer with new papers or keep your favorite colors in stock, this sale covers all the crafting essentials you need.

Why Wait? Shop Early and Beat the Black Friday Rush

Shopping early has its perks! You can avoid the Black Friday madness, get your supplies at a fantastic discount, and spend those holiday weekends actually crafting, not shopping. So go ahead and check a few things off your list for yourself or the crafters in your life.

The Sale Starts Today—Don’t Miss Out!

This Seasonal Sale only lasts until Friday at midnight, so hop over to the catalog and treat yourself to something special. With these discounts, there’s no better time to complete your collection or try something new. Whether you’re stocking up on basics or diving into a new bundle, I hope you find something to spark your creativity and make this season even more joyful.

Happy crafting, and happy savings!

Here’s a quick look with links to my Online Store ….

Sale: $37.13

Price: $41.25

Sale: $42.75

Price: $47.50

Sale: $49.28

Price: $54.75

Sale: $8.10

Price: $9.00

Sale: $9.00

Price: $10.00

Let’s Take a Peek into my Stamping Retreat

Posted in HANDMADE CARDS, Stampin' Retreats by

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

Welcome to a little peek into the joy-filled weekend we shared at our Fall Holiday Stamping Retreat! Last weekend was truly an escape into creativity, connection, and fun—a beautiful retreat filled with laughter, crafting, and the warmth of friendships both new and old. Picture yourself arriving at our charming English Tudor retreat home, welcomed at the door with open arms and a heartfelt greeting. We guide you to your room, where a specially crafted name tag awaits you, made just for you using the delicate Frozen Edges dies. If you take a look at page 50 in the catalog, you’ll spot where this inspiration came from. This was one of the bundles that played a starring role in one of our weekend stamping sessions, and it brought a touch of winter’s elegance to our retreat.

As you settle into your cozy room, you’ll notice a Welcome Gift waiting just for you, a little something special to start the weekend off right. And to aid in your crafting endeavors. It’s an adorable memento of our time together, a token of appreciation to carry home as a reminder of this getaway. This personal touch, just for you, is a cornerstone of what makes these retreats so memorable and meaningful.

As you move into the dining room, the warm glow of the space invites you further in. There, you’ll spot adorable gift boxes set at each place, a touch of holiday charm and creativity wrapped up just for you. The Book Treat Boxes, found on page 27 of the catalog, were assembled and lovingly decorated with the festive Sentimental Christmas Designer Paper. Each box was filled with small surprises, perfect for adding to the retreat’s joy and spirit… and a little inspiration to craft when they get home!

After settling in and enjoying a hearty dinner together, the excitement of our first stamping session begins. As everyone gathers, they’re met with a delightful surprise—a fun and festive Popcorn Bar filled with an assortment of sweet and salty treats! It’s the perfect way to add a little extra joy to the evening, letting everyone nibble as we dive into our creative projects and settle into the cozy atmosphere of the craft room. And speaking of adding … our guests always add to this table (it magically fills us with all sorts of special treats).

This retreat was even more special as I introduced Paper Pumpkin to our stamping session for the very first time. Attendees were thrilled to get hands-on experience with these kits, starting with a chance to capture photos of the original designs. I also shared some of my own alternative techniques and layouts, giving them a fresh perspective on how to get more out of their kits. Watching their excitement as they discovered new ways to craft unique cards was such a joy, and it was just one of the highlights of the retreat.

The energy in the room was contagious, and each participant left that evening feeling inspired and ready for more. These sessions are all about learning, sharing, and having fun, and I’m beyond grateful to create these experiences with such a wonderful group. If this sounds like the kind of weekend you’d love, I invite you to join us for our upcoming Spring Stamping Retreat from May 2nd through the 4th. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss—one full of warmth, laughter, and creativity, with friends old and new.

Make sure you get on my mailing list for the invitation!

Here is a comment I received from one of our guests today! Peggy K: Working on Christmas cards for our homebound church members. I got out my Home for the Holidays Paper Pumpkin kit and can get 19 beautiful alternate cards out of it plus the ones we made at retreat. Thanks for the inspiration!

Thanks for joining me, and I will be back to share more.

#stampingretreats #christmascards #papercrafting

HAPPY HALLOWEEN🎃👻

Posted in Halloween, HANDMADE CARDS by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Today I thought we’d take a look through some of our Halloween inspiration …

I’ve summoned not one, but four hauntingly amazing products to create this wickedly wonderful design: the Halloween Spells Designer Paper, the Playful Ghosts stamp set, the Halloween Memories stamp set, and the versatile Take a Bow Dies.

For this hauntingly cute card, we’re showcasing the eerie charm of the Halloween Memories Scrapbooking Kit and its oh-so-versatile two-tone cardstock. One side is the full-strength color, while the flip side is a lighter, spookier version—perfect for creating dimensional depth. I chose to use the “tearing” technique to give this card an extra ghostly touch by revealing the white core of the cardstock.

My pencil holders are a bewitching way to share the fun of Halloween without adding more sugar to the night. Created with the hauntingly beautiful Halloween Spells Designer Paper, these cute little pouches are a cinch to make. Whether you tuck in three Halloween-themed pencils or a ghoulishly delightful pen, these treats are sure to cast a spell on whoever receives them!

These cards have it all: spooky fun, creative techniques, and of course, lots of Halloween spirit. Whether you’re crafting for a party or just want to send a frightfully fun greeting, these projects are sure to cast a spell on your recipients!

Thanks for joining me today! Happy Halloween ~

Wow… Create 16 Fast & Beautiful Holiday Cards

Posted in Christmas, HANDMADE CARDS by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

🎄 Today, I’m thrilled to share a simple yet incredibly elegant way to make your holiday card-making fast, fabulous, and fun! Imagine creating not just one, but 16 stunning holiday cards—all from a single sheet of the breathtaking Regal Winter Designer Series Paper (DSP). With its vibrant watercolor florals, hand-painted designs, and rich seasonal hues, this paper sets a heartwarming holiday tone that your friends and family will adore!

Let’s dive into this super-efficient design, perfect for anyone who loves beautiful, handmade cards without spending days on end making them. And the best part? We’re pairing it with the Christmas Labels Bundle, which is packed with gorgeous sentiments and die-cut frames that add a touch of class to each card. With this approach, you’ll have everything you need to make your holiday greetings truly special!

Step 1: Cut Your Paper—3 x 3 is the Magic Number!

To get started, take a 12 x 12 sheet of the Regal Winter Designer Paper and cut it down into 3 x 3-inch squares. This will give you 16 individual squares—the perfect size to build a gorgeous set of cards quickly. Each 3 x 3 piece showcases a unique section of the paper’s hand-painted design, meaning each card will have its own charm and character while still looking like part of a cohesive set.

Quick Tip: Feel free to mix and match paper patterns if you want an extra pop of variety! The Regal Winter DSP coordinates beautifully, so each card will have a harmonious holiday look.

Step 2: The Christmas Labels Bundle—Adding Elegance & Class

Now that we have our DSP squares ready, it’s time to bring in the Christmas Labels Bundle! The bundle includes beautifully crafted sentiments and label frames that add an instant touch of elegance to your cards. Here’s a closer look at what’s included:

  • Stamp Set Sentiments: Warm and festive sentiments that are perfect for holiday wishes. From classic “Merry Christmas” to heartfelt “Season’s Greetings,” these stamps have every message you need for your cards.
  • Label Frame Die Cuts: The die-cut frames are the stars of the show! They’re delicately designed to enhance your sentiment stamps and give each card a professional, polished look. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be used on tags, paper cup sleeves, and other Christmas crafts!

Simply choose a sentiment for each card, die-cut a frame to surround it, and you’ll be amazed at how refined and finished each card looks.

Step 3: Assemble & Adorn!

Now comes the fun part—assembling your cards! I’ve used a Basic White background to highlight the paper and add some texture… use your favorite embossing folder. Next, place a 3 x 3 square of the DSP onto a 3 1/4″ x 3 1/4″ mat in a coordinating color and center it onto the card front. Then layer on your label frames with the sentiment stamped inside. To make each card uniquely special, add a few embellishments like rhinestones, pearls, or a sprinkle of glitter.

And just like that, you’ve got 16 holiday cards that look as though they were designed by a professional!

Why Handmade Cards Make the Best Gifts

The joy of receiving a handmade card is truly something special. When your loved ones open their mailbox to find one of your beautiful creations, they’ll feel the warmth and care that went into making it. Every brushstroke of color, every carefully chosen sentiment, every loving touch—it all comes together to create a moment of joy and connection.

Sending handmade cards isn’t just about sharing holiday wishes; it’s about sharing a piece of your heart with those who matter most. Each card becomes a keepsake, a small token of love they can hold onto throughout the season and beyond. Even my landlord has saved each card I have made for them!!

Let’s Make This Holiday Season Extra Special

So, if you’re ready to create gorgeous holiday cards that will warm hearts and make spirits bright, be sure to add the Regal Winter Designer Series Paper and Christmas Labels Bundle to your crafting stash. Whether you’re a seasoned card maker or a newbie looking to try something special, this combo is perfect for you. With just one sheet of 12 x 12 DSP and this versatile bundle, you can make 16 cards quickly, beautifully, and with that touch of elegance every holiday card deserves! Each sheet creates 16 cards … and there are 12 sheets per package! Hmmm …. is that enough for your Christmas Card list?!

Shop today and start creating cards that your family and friends will treasure. Because nothing says “I’m thinking of you” like a handmade card made with love.

Thank you for joining me today ~

Stunning Card with the Peaceful Season Bundle

Posted in Christmas, HANDMADE CARDS by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

I’m so excited to share the latest card I created using the Peaceful Season Stamp Set and Dies Bundle, a must-have for your holiday crafting! This bundle offers elegant holiday sentiments for sending heartfelt messages to your loved ones. What makes this bundle truly special are the coordinating dies, which beautifully enhance the stamped sentiments. The dies include elegant shapes that frame the greetings and add a polished, dimensional look to your cards.

For the card I’m showcasing today, I wanted to create something truly special, highlighting the beauty of a peaceful winter landscape….

The background was created with the Painted Trees embossing folder, which adds a wonderful textured forest scene. I enhanced the raised tree outlines with Pearlized Enamel Effects in White, giving the card a frosty, shimmering look—perfect for capturing the essence of a peaceful, winter day.

The Peaceful Season Stamp Set and Dies Bundle is perfect for any crafter looking to create timeless, sophisticated holiday cards. The sentiments are versatile and can be used for cards, tags, and even gift packaging, while the coordinating dies help elevate your projects by adding layers of dimension and elegance.

Plus, the bundle works wonderfully with other seasonal products, making it easy to integrate with embossing folders, designer paper, and embellishments in your existing collection.

If you’d like the PDF tutorial for this card, including step-by-step instructions and a complete list of supplies, just leave me a note in the comments below! I’d be happy to send it to you, so you can recreate this stunning holiday card for your loved ones.

I hope this post inspires you to try out the Peaceful Season Stamp Set and Dies Bundle for your holiday crafting! The combination of heartfelt sentiments and beautiful die-cut elements makes it easy to create cards that are both meaningful and visually stunning.

Be sure to visit my online store or click the links below to add this bundle to your crafting stash. You won’t want to miss out on using it for your upcoming holiday projects!

Happy crafting! ❄️

One of My Favorites ON SALE: “You Are Beautiful” Stamp Set

Posted in HANDMADE CARDS, VIDEO by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Today, I am thrilled to share one of my favorite stamp sets that is on sale … It’s a beautiful way to send love, support, faith, and encouragement through your handmade cards. The “You Are Beautiful” Stamp Set is an exquisite collection that features positive sentiments in a contemporary font, perfect for uplifting those around you. I’ve created 3 cards and an engaging video tutorial, to showcase the versatility and elegance of this stamp set.

The “You Are Beautiful” Stamp Set isn’t just any stamp set; it’s designed to make a statement. The sentiments are heartfelt and motivating, ideal for any occasion where you want to make someone feel special. The set includes a variety of uplifting messages, from “You Are Beautiful” to “You Are a Shining Light,” making it perfect for creating cards that convey your heartfelt emotions. The modern and stylish font ensures your cards look professional and trendy, adding a touch of elegance to your handmade creations.

This stamp set features a special texture that adds depth and dimension to your stamped images. With Distinktive stamps, you can achieve photo-realistic images with just one stamp, making your cards stand out effortlessly. Additionally, the greenery sprig stamp adds a pop of color and a natural element to your cards, complementing the sentiments beautifully and adding a fresh, vibrant touch.

For the first card, I chose the simplest of the Color Theory – Monochromatic. Just basic stamping … Shaded Spruce on white.

The second card also highlights the Monochromatic color theory. I love the look of “color on color” … it just adds so much dimension without layering! Again, I am using Shaded Spruce cardstock and ink.

My third and last card highlights the Analogous style in the color theory … taking 3 colors that are side-by-side on the color wheel. I choose Shy Shamrock, Pretty Peacock and Lost Lagoon. Oh my … I think it turned out so pretty and I used it as my background. I stamped the greeting in Shy Shamrock and highlighted it with the Rhinestones.

I’m also excited to share a video tutorial where you can watch these cards come to life. In the video, I’ll walk you through the process of creating each card, from selecting the right colors to stamping the perfect image. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or new to stamping, this tutorial will provide you with tips and inspiration to make your own stunning cards using the “You Are Beautiful” Stamp Set.

The “You Are Beautiful” Stamp Set is more than just a tool for card-making; it’s a way to connect with others and share positivity. Whether you’re creating cards for friends, family, or even yourself, this stamp set helps you craft messages that are heartfelt and sincere. I hope these cards and the accompanying video inspire you to spread love, support, faith, and encouragement with your handmade creations.

Thank you for joining me today! Happy crafting, and remember, you are beautiful!

Brewing Up Some Spooky Fun

Posted in Halloween, HANDMADE CARDS by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Hope you’ve been having a spooktacular time during Halloween week! But, beware, today is our final day to share some crafty Halloween magic with you. No need to be too frightened, though—today’s card is brewing up all kinds of spooky fun! We’ve summoned not one, but four hauntingly amazing products to create this wickedly wonderful design: the Halloween Spells Designer Paper, the Playful Ghosts stamp set, the Halloween Memories stamp set, and the versatile Take a Bow Dies.

Let’s start with the backdrop, which sets the eerie stage for our card. Might bring your thoughts to Beetlejuice!! The Halloween Spells Designer Paper is featured prominently here, not just as the background but also transformed into spooky orbs floating across the card like enchanted bubbles. But wait—what’s that peeking out? Tucked between those orbs is none other than our mischievous little ghost from the Playful Ghosts stamp set! He may look like he’s up to some spooky antics, but he adds just the right amount of playful charm to balance the eerie with a little bit of cute.

And what’s Halloween without a chilling message? The “Spooky Fun” greeting, perfectly fitting for this card, comes from the Halloween Memories stamp set. We’ve stamped it onto more of the Halloween Spells Designer Paper because, let’s be honest, you can never have too much of this enchanting design! The message is framed using the Take a Bow Dies, which, like a spell-casting wand, create that perfect shape to highlight your greeting. Pro tip: Keep these dies handy all year long, because they’re not just for Halloween. They’re perfect for making bows and framing sentiments on cards, scrapbook pages, and more for any occasion.

So, as the witching hour of Halloween week comes to a close, don’t let the crafting fun stop here. These hauntingly versatile products are a great addition to your creative stash all year round! Keep casting those crafty spells and conjuring up creations that will delight and inspire.

Happy haunting, and keep those crafting cauldrons bubbling!

🎃 Day 5 of Halloween Week: Adorably Spooky Card 👻

Posted in Halloween, HANDMADE CARDS by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Boo to you, stampers! We’re nearing the end of our spook-tacular Halloween Week celebration, and today’s card is bringing all the playful, spooky vibes! 👻🎃 If you love a little mischief with your Halloween creations, this card is going to be right up your haunted alley!

Picture this: a ghost, too cute to be scary, popping right out of a jack-o’-lantern! 🎃👻 Our background is a fun splash of classic Halloween colors – think deep oranges, haunting purples, and ghoulish greens. And, of course, the star of the show, our ghost, is cheekily peeking out of the pumpkin like they’ve been caught mid-trick (or maybe treat? 👀).

The Trick or Treat greeting from the Halloween Memories stamp set dares your recipient to take their chances—will they be tricked, or will they get a treat? Only time will tell! But one thing’s for sure, this card is loaded with Halloween spirit, ready to spread smiles (and maybe a few little scares)!

Whether you’re crafting this card for a friend or sending it out to your favorite trick-or-treater, this project is sure to spread some playful Halloween magic! 🎃 Ready to recreate this adorable design? Don’t forget to grab your Halloween Memories stamp set and Playful Ghosts while they’re still in stock!. 👻 Oh yes, and the Take a Bow dies I used for our banners.

Let’s keep the Halloween fun going! What’s been your favorite project so far this week? Drop a comment below, and let’s chat all things spooky! 🎃🕸️

Until tomorrow, happy haunting and happy stamping!

Day 3: Playful Ghosts & Wickedly Good Times!

Posted in Halloween, HANDMADE CARDS by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Welcome back, crafty friends! It’s Day 3 of our Halloween Week, and today I’m bringing a bit of spooky fun into the mix with the Playful Ghosts stamp set. If you’ve been following along, you know we’re keeping the Halloween vibes going strong with the Halloween Spells Designer Paper, and today’s project is no different! Let’s dive into how this charming ghostly creation came together, step by step.

To start, I used the starry pattern from the Halloween Spells Designer Paper as the backdrop for our spooky scene. Measuring 3 7/8″ x 5 1/8″, this piece sets the perfect Halloween night tone when mounted onto a 4″ x 5 1/4″ piece of Pumpkin Pie cardstock. This pairing really makes those stars pop! The card base is Granny Apple Green—a must for our Halloween color palette, adding a playful and eerie contrast to the deeper tones of the card.

Now, for a bit of layering fun! I die-cut two banners using the Take a Bow dies: one in Pumpkin Pie and another in the Gorgeous Grape polka dot pattern from the same designer series paper. These playful colors work together to create a whimsical, spooky feel.

Next, I reached for the Granny Apple Green “bubbly” pattern from the designer paper and stamped the greeting “Wickedly Good Times” in bold black ink. I love how the pop of green brings this sentiment to life! To give it that finishing touch, I die-cut the greeting with the Nested Essentials Dies, giving it a sharp and clean look.

And now for the star of the show—our Playful Ghost! I stamped the adorable little “witch” ghost using Memento ink and brought her to life with markers. You can really have fun with this one by adding bright pops of color to her hat or gown. She’s spooky, but let’s face it, she’s way too cute to scare anyone!

By layering all of these elements together, you’ve got a fun, playful card that perfectly captures the Halloween spirit! Whether you’re sending this card to a friend or adding it to your stash of handmade holiday creations, it’s sure to bring a smile to their face.

All the supplies used in this project are available in my Stampin’ Up! store, so if you’re loving this card as much as I am, be sure to grab your Playful Ghosts stamp set, Halloween Spells Designer Paper, and coordinating dies before they vanish like a ghost in the night! Stay tuned for more Halloween fun coming your way tomorrow—there’s plenty more tricks and treats to come this week! 🎃

Happy stamping, and don’t forget to add these must-have Halloween supplies to your crafting stash! Until tomorrow, keep crafting wickedly good times! ✨👻 OR … You join me LIVE tonight on my Linda’s Stampin’ Escape Facebook page; I’ll be showing you how to make some cute “Trick or Treat” gifts.

Day 2 of Halloween Week: Wickedly Fun Halloween Card!

Posted in Halloween, HANDMADE CARDS by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Welcome back to Day 2 of Halloween Week! 🎃 Today, we’re conjuring up some wickedly fun vibes with a spooky, yet playful, card that’s perfect for this haunting season. Grab your crafting gear, because this project is not only thrilling but full of creative twists!

We’re starting with a basic black card base, a classic Halloween must! The dark backdrop sets the perfect stage for what’s to come. I added a strip of the Halloween Spells Designer Paper—the one with the mysterious Spells & Potions books. Doesn’t it just feel like we’re about to dive into a witch’s spellbook? 🧙‍♀️ This element adds intrigue and sets the scene for our magical masterpiece.

Now, let’s talk about the Take a Bow Dies—but with a twist! Instead of using them for a bow, I decided to think outside the cauldron. I used the dies to highlight the greeting on this card in a fun and quirky way. Isn’t it great when you can use your dies for more than one thing? It’s like finding a secret spell hidden in your stash!

To make things even more spellbinding, I pulled out the Halloween Memories Stamp Set. Who says it’s just for scrapbooking? I’m all about getting the most from my stamping supplies, and I love sharing creative ways to stretch your tools. That’s why I used the “omitting technique” for the greeting! I covered the part of the words I didn’t need, only inking the ones I wanted to use.

For the greeting, I stamped “Wickedly” on a larger piece from the bow die set and “Fun” on the smallest piece. I trimmed the larger die to fit the card perfectly and then layered the smaller “Fun” underneath for a wickedly fun effect! 🧛‍♀️

But we’re not done yet—this card is bubbling with more magic! ✨ I added the cute little potion bottles from the Halloween Spells Kit. These adorable die-cut stickers are just waiting to be used! I popped them up with dimensionals for some extra depth and drama. And for a final spooky touch, I sprinkled on some iridescent pearls to give the illusion of bubbles rising from the potion—totally magical and mysterious, don’t you think?

This card has it all: spooky fun, creative techniques, and of course, lots of Halloween spirit. Whether you’re crafting for a party or just want to send a frightfully fun greeting, this project is sure to cast a spell on your recipients! 👻

Happy crafting, and stay tuned for more spooky surprises as Halloween Week continues!

Simply Sunday: Wickedly Fun Halloween Card Kick-Off! 🎃🕸️

Posted in Halloween, HANDMADE CARDS by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Welcome, ghouls and goblins, to the first day of our Halloween Week on the blog! I’m beyond excited to kick things off with a frightfully fun card that will send shivers down your crafting spine. Today, we’re keeping it simple by revisiting some basic techniques that add a magical twist to your projects. Let’s dive into the cauldron and stir up some spooky creativity using the Halloween Spells Designer Paper and Sticker Kit. Join me for a wicked night of crafting delight!

For this hauntingly cute card, we’re showcasing the eerie charm of the Halloween Memories Scrapbooking Kit and its oh-so-versatile two-tone cardstock. One side is the full-strength color, while the flip side is a lighter, spookier version—perfect for creating dimensional depth. I chose to use the “tearing” technique to give this card an extra ghostly touch by revealing the white core of the cardstock. Here’s how it all came together:

Start by tearing a strip off your cardstock – this technique gives an organic, ragged edge, just like a witch’s spellbook. Then, cut it in half and flip one half upside down, so you can see both the deep, dark side and the lighter shadowed side of the cardstock. It creates an eerie effect that’s perfect for Halloween!

Layer your torn pieces onto the polka-dotted sheet from the Halloween Spells Designer Paper. The playful dots add a whimsical balance to the spooky torn edges, creating a haunted contrast. All of these are layered onto a Basic Black base.

To add some fun and depth, I took a scrap piece of black designer paper and attached it to the left side… This little trick gives the card more balance and frames the torn edges perfectly.

No Halloween card is complete without some creepy critters! I grabbed 3 bats from the sticker sheet and once placed, I tucked a dimensional under one of the wings on each bat. This simple technique makes them look like they’re flying right off the card!

The greeting (also from the sticker sheet) was trimmed down, and I popped it up for extra dimension. It’s like a message straight from the ghoul herself!

But wait, there’s more magic… 🧙‍♀️ To give this card some extra sparkle, I added a few Iridescent Foil Gems. Of course, I couldn’t resist taking my Pumpkin Pie Stampin’ Blends and coloring them to match the Halloween theme. It’s a quick and easy way to transform your gems into perfect, pumpkin-colored accents!

This card was an absolute scream to create, and it’s just the beginning of our Halloween Week on the blog. I can’t wait for you to try out these fun techniques with the Halloween Memories Scrapbooking Kit. Stay tuned for more wickedly creative projects that will leave you howling for more!

Don’t miss tomorrow’s post, where we’ll dive even deeper into the Halloween crafting cauldron. Until then, happy haunting and happy crafting! 👻🖤