Hugs & Kisses Tent Fold Card

Posted in HANDMADE CARDS, Valentines & Love by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Sometimes it’s fun to take a closer look at those tools in our craft rooms that feel like a bit of an investment—and really explore all the ways they can work for us. Today’s card does exactly that by shining the spotlight on the Party Alphabet Dies in a completely different way. These dies aren’t just for birthdays or big celebrations… they’re perfect for everyday cards, heartfelt messages, and yes—even hugs and kisses!

For this project, I started with a classic A2 tent-fold card base, cut to 11″ x 4 1/4″ and scored at 5 1/2″. This simple fold is always a favorite because it’s easy, sturdy, and gives you plenty of room to let your layers and focal point shine. I selected a different pattern from the Made with Love Designer Series Paper and cut it to 4″ x 5 1/4″, mounting it directly to the card front. The delicate pattern instantly sets the tone and makes the card feel cheerful and fun.

Because the designer paper is such a statement on its own, I wanted the focal point to stand out without competing with the background. A soft vellum circle, cut using the Spotlight on Nature Dies, was the perfect solution. Vellum is one of my favorite tricks for grounding a focal point—it softens the busy background while still letting that gorgeous paper peek through.

Next came the stars of the show: the X and O, die cut from Flirty Flamingo cardstock using the Party Alphabet Dies. Simple, bold, and full of meaning—who doesn’t love sending hugs and kisses? I popped them up with Stampin’ Dimensionals to add depth and draw the eye right to the center of the card. This is a great example of how these alphabet dies can be used beyond words and names to create symbols, sentiments, and playful focal points for any occasion.

For the greeting, I reached for the sticker sheet that comes with the Made with Love Designer Paper pack. I stamped a sentiment from the Reason to Celebrate stamp set directly onto one of the sticker sections and placed it on the card front. To finish the greeting, I punched a heart using the Bee Builder Punch—how cute is that? It’s such a fun and creative way to use the blank space on the sticker sheet while adding just the right touch of sweetness. Take a peek at the video below …

CLICK HERE TO VIEW ON YOUTUBE

This card is a perfect reminder that versatile products truly earn their place in your craft room showing up again and again in fresh, unexpected ways. The Party Alphabet Dies are a wonderful example of that kind of versatility—perfect for birthdays, celebrations, Valentine’s Day, everyday greetings, and so much more. And don’t worry… there’s plenty more inspiration coming your way!

If this card made you smile, I hope it inspires you to look at your supplies with fresh eyes and have fun mixing patterns, textures, and simple die cuts to create something special. Sometimes it’s those small, thoughtful details that make a handmade card extra meaningful.

Just a reminder to join for our online party filled with inspiration, fun and prize patrol!!

Made to Love: A Slimline Valentine Card with Shimmer & Style

Posted in HANDMADE CARDS, Valentines & Love by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Love is definitely in the air—and this slimline card is the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a BIG way! Slimline cards have quickly become a favorite because they offer extra space to showcase gorgeous designer paper and bold greetings, all while still fitting neatly inside a standard #10 envelope (4.125″ x 9.5″). They’re eye-catching, fun to create, and a wonderful option when you want your handmade card to truly stand out from the crowd.

For today’s card, I started with a slimline card base measuring 9 1/4″ x 7 1/2″, scored and folded at 3 3/4″. This size creates a clean, professional look while remaining completely mail-friendly—always a win! To add layers and visual interest, I added a Real Red mat cut to 8 3/4″ x 3 1/2″, followed by the star of the show: the NEW Made to Love Designer Series Paper, trimmed to 8 1/2″ x 3 1/4″. This paper is simply perfect for Valentine projects with its playful patterns and romantic color palette that instantly sets the mood for love.

Before attaching the layers to the card base, I wrapped the NEW Bubble Bath Faux Linen Ribbon across the front. This small step adds softness and texture, and the subtle linen look keeps the design elegant without overpowering the card. It’s one of those details that quietly elevates the finished project.

The greeting is where this card really shines! The word “LOVE” was die cut from the Pastel Shimmer Paper using the Party Alphabet Dies and popped up with Stampin’ Dimensionals for added depth. The Pastel Shimmer Paper adds such a beautiful, soft sparkle—just enough shine to catch the light and make the greeting feel extra special. With delicate pastel shades and a subtle glow, this paper is a lovely addition to cards, scrapbooking, and all kinds of paper crafts. The pack includes 6 sheets (2 each of Bubble Bath, Lemon Lolly, and Pool Party) in a generous 12″ x 12″ size, giving you plenty to play with.

To finish things off, I couldn’t resist adding the Softest Spring Mix & Match Puffy Stickers along with a few Rhinestones. These little embellishments bring in just the right amount of whimsy and sparkle, tying everything together while keeping the overall look light, fun, and full of love.

Slimline cards are a fantastic way to showcase beautiful products, experiment with layers, and create something a little unexpected—yet still practical. This design is perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or anytime you want to send a heartfelt message with maximum impact. If you’re looking for products that make creating “wow” cards easy and enjoyable, the pieces used here work together beautifully and are sure to find their way into many future projects. After all, there’s always room for a little more LOVE in our crafting—and in our mailboxes 💕

Thanks for sharing a little crafty time with me today! I hope this slimline Valentine card sparks your creativity and inspires you to give these beautiful products a try. Until next time—happy stamping and keep spreading the love… one card at a time! 💖

I invite you to join me for the SPRING MINI CATALOG Kick-Off Party ….

Same Fold, New Look… Valentine Card

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Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

One of my favorite things about card making is how a simple change can completely transform a design—and today’s card is the perfect example of that! This project uses similar measurements and fun fold I shared in my previous post, but with one key twist: instead of using designer paper in the center, I switched it out for cardstock. The result? A totally different look that still delivers that WOW factor while beautifully highlighting the Made with Love Designer Series Paper.

Using cardstock in the center panel creates a wonderful focal point and gives the eye a place to rest, while still letting that gorgeous designer paper shine. It’s an easy way to stretch your supplies, change up the feel of the card, and get even more mileage out of a fold you already know and love. This version feels a little more classic and polished, as I embossed it with the 3-D Eyelet Embossing Folder!

Measurements • Card Base 8 ½” x 5 ½” score at 4 ¼” • Mat / Contrasting Cardstock: 4 ⅛” x 5 ⅜.” • Designer paper 2 @ 1 ¾” x 5 1/4″. The only thing I really changed is the embossing the mat and eliminating the center designer paper!!

If you’re using the Made with Love Designer Series Paper, this layout is a fantastic way to let those patterns do the heavy lifting. Pairing it with cardstock in the center allows the paper to frame the design and truly stand out, making each card feel intentional and thoughtfully designed.

If you missed the original version of this fun fold, be sure to go back and check it out—and stay tuned, because I have even more ideas coming your way using this same amazing designer paper. Great layouts, big impact, and lots of creative fun—that’s what crafting is all about!

Happy stampin’, my friend! 💕✂️ Linda

Don’t forget my Spring Mini Catalog party is going on now, on my Facebook page! CLICK HERE

BONUS DAYS HAPPENING NOW ….

Designer Paper Magic! A WOW Fun Fold

Posted in Fun Folds, HANDMADE CARDS, New Product Intro / Video by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Have you ever fallen in love with a piece of designer paper and thought, I don’t want to waste a single inch of this!? If that sounds like you, you’re going to LOVE today’s project. I’m sharing a fun, eye-catching designer paper fun fold that not only maximizes your paper but also delivers a big WOW factor with very little effort. This is one of those cards that looks fancy and impressive, yet comes together easily—perfect for using up your favorite papers while making something truly special.

One of my favorite things about this fun fold is how efficient it is. With just a few strategic cuts and folds, you’ll be amazed at how much impact you get with little to no waste. It’s a fantastic way to stretch your designer paper, especially those patterns you’ve been hoarding because they’re “too pretty to cut.” Trust me—this design lets the paper shine while keeping the process simple and enjoyable.

In today’s Facebook LIVE REPLAY / YouTube video, I walk you through the entire process step by step. You’ll see exactly how the folds come together, how the layers create that WOW moment when the card is opened, and how easy it is to adapt this design using different designer papers, colors, and themes. Whether you’re crafting for birthdays, thank-you cards, or just for fun, this fold is one you’ll come back to again and again.

🎥 Watch the video below to see this designer paper fun fold in action and learn how to maximize your paper while creating something truly impressive. Grab your supplies, craft along with me, and don’t forget to leave a comment—I’d love to hear which designer paper you’re excited to try with this fold!

CLICK HERE TO WATCH ON YOUTUBE

If you loved this fun fold and the idea of getting more WOW from your designer paper, be sure to check out the supplies I used—you can easily recreate this design or make it your own with papers you already have on hand. This fold is incredibly versatile and looks amazing with just about any designer series paper. And if you’re hungry for more creative ideas, fun folds, and stamping inspiration, make sure you’re subscribed to my YouTube channel and following along here on the blog so you never miss a project. Crafting should be fun, relaxing, and inspiring—and I’m so happy to share that creative escape with you.

Happy stampin’, my friend! 💕✂️

🎉 Join me next Tuesday at 6:30 pm on my Linda’s Stampin’ Escape Facebook page LIVE as I launch my Mini Catalog Kick-Off Party—stamping, inspiration, specials and crafty fun await!

🎉 Happy New Year & Let the Stampin’ Fun Begin!

Posted in HANDMADE CARDS by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Happy New Year, friends! I hope you had a wonderful holiday season💖 I don’t know about you, but there is just something about the start of a new year that feels fresh, exciting, and full of creative possibilities. And in the stamping world… this is one of my favorite times of the year! Tomorrow the NEW Spring Mini Catalog, Online Exclusives, Kits, and Product of the Month will all be revealed! PLUS ….

You may have already heard the buzz — Bonus Days are BACK! 🎉 This is such a fabulous promotion because you get rewarded for doing what you already love: shopping for stamps, paper, ink, and all the crafty goodness. During Bonus Days, you’ll earn rewards to use on future orders AND you still receive your usual Stampin’ Rewards. That means more freebies, more fun, and more reasons to treat yourself. (Yes please! 🙌) Here’s how it works, if you are new to Bonus Days …

And the excitement doesn’t stop there! I’m thrilled to invite you to my Online Spring Mini Catalog Kick-Off Party, happening next week — Tuesday, January 13th through Saturday! 🎊 We’ll be celebrating all the NEW Spring Mini Catalog goodies with inspiration, card ideas, LIVE demonstrations, games, prize patrols, and fun surprises sprinkled throughout the week. Whether you join me live, pop in to play along, or catch the replays, there will be something for everyone.

While you’re waiting for the party fun to officially kick off next week, I couldn’t resist sharing a little creative inspiration with you. 💕 This adorable card was one I whipped together using scraps left on my desk — a perfect reminder that creativity doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes a few leftovers, a simple layout, and a little play time are all you need to create something special.

This sweet little card features the Hobby Haven Specialty Designer Series Paper, and oh my goodness… it is just charming! With playful illustrations inspired by baking, sewing, reading, and all those cozy, simple pleasures we love, this paper is perfect for creating cards that feel extra personal — and even cute gift packaging too. The two sheets of precut pieces make it so easy to add layers and dimension, and if you love a little fussy cutting (you know I do 😉), there’s plenty of opportunity to add fun details that really make your projects pop!

Speaking of pop … the pop of vellum cut from one of the Spotlight on Nature dies helped to create my focal point, and adds a touch of warmth. And the Just a Note used for the greeting … comes from the Just a Note Bundle!! What do you think about today’s design?

✨ Let’s Kick Off a Creative New Year Together! ✨

Between Bonus Days, a brand-new Spring Mini Catalog, Online Exclusives, New Kits, Product of the Month release, and an Online Kick-Off Party packed with inspiration and prizes… there is so much happening, and it all starts tomorrow! Be sure to join me, mark your calendar, and get ready to be inspired. Grab your coffee, your crafty heart, and maybe even your wish list — because this is going to be SO much fun.

Let’s make this a creative year to remember! 💕🎨✂️

— Stampin’ Hugs, Linda 💖

NOTE: Online Kick-Off Party starts Tuesday, January 13th!!

Spring Is Calling! A Sneak Peek at the NEW Mini Catalog

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Hello Stampin’ Friends and Happy New Year!!

Spring creativity is right around the corner, and I couldn’t be more excited to share what’s coming! 🌷 Today’s post features a replay of one of my recent Facebook LIVE videos, where I gave a sneak peek into the NEW Spring Mini Catalog. If you love fresh colors, brand-new stamps, gorgeous Designer Series Paper, and lots of creative inspiration, you’re going to want to grab a comfy seat and hit play.

During this LIVE, we had so much fun chatting, exploring some of the new, and getting those creative wheels turning for the season ahead. I shared some early favorites, talked about what really stood out to me, and gave you a little taste of the beautiful products that will be available beginning January 6th. Even if you couldn’t join me live, this replay captures all the excitement, inspiration, and crafty conversation we enjoyed together.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH ON YOUTUBE!

The Spring Mini Catalog is packed with so many possibilities — perfect for card making, scrapbooking, and all the ways we love to share handmade joy. As you watch the video, start thinking about what might be landing on your wish list and how these new goodies will fit into your crafting plans for the new year. Trust me, there are some must-haves you’re going to fall in love with!

Enjoy video and mark your calendar for January 6th, when the NEW Spring Mini Catalog officially goes live. I can’t wait to create with these products alongside you and share even more inspiration, classes, and projects as we kick off a brand-new creative season together. ✂️🌸

💕 Thanks for stopping by today!

Hobby Haven: Thinking of You Card

Posted in HANDMADE CARDS by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Yesterday I shared a card from the NEW Hobby Haven Designer Series Paper— today I bring you another layout and paper pattern. This delightful collection brings your favorite pastimes to life—whether you love baking, sewing, reading, or simply enjoying the little things. Each sheet is filled with charming illustrations that practically beg to be turned into heartfelt cards, thoughtful tags, and adorable gift packaging. With two sheets of precut pieces (yay for quick crafting!) and tons of fussy-cutting possibilities, you can layer, pop up, and personalize to your heart’s content.

My color palette? An inviting mix of warm and cozy hues like Coastal Cabana and Early Espresso. It’s sweet, it’s whimsical, and and with so many different hobbies featured – you can create a special card like I have here. Perfect for the seamstress in the family or your beautiful friend who shares her creativity one stitch at a time!

I used a 4″ x 5 1/4″ piece of the Hobby Haven designer paper as my backdrop … with the sewing of course. The vellum is used to tone down the designer paper but still let it shine through. I then fussy cut the sewing machine and the pin cushion. I die cut a circle (you can use any you have handy) mine comes from the Snowflake Kisses bundle.. this will be my focal point.

From the same bundle, I die cut the rectangle to stamp my greeting on because it looked like it was “stitched” around the edges. The “Thinking of You” comes from the Simply Said stamp set and conveys my intent when sending this special card. I layered this slightly of center from my focal point but added the pin cushion in to make the perfect grouping.

To complete my card, I added the cute “Dear Dots” embellishments and if you look closely, you’ll see that I turned them into little buttons with the help of my Stampin’ Blends! How cute is that!!

Thank you for stopping by and checking out my creation!

Easy Fun Fold Cards: 3 Pretty Papers & Video

Posted in HANDMADE CARDS, VIDEO by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

If you love quick & easy cards that pack a big “wow,” you’re in the right place! Today I’m sharing a North Pole Delivery Fun Fold that’s not only adorable—but it also features my favorite paper-saving trick to help you stretch every sheet.

We’ll be crafting with a trio of gorgeous Designer Papers: North Pole Delivery, Hobby Haven, and the NEW Easter Joy… and trust me, you’re going to want them all by the time we’re done. Grab a cozy seat, hit play, and let’s create something magical together!

Click Here to Watch on Youtube

  • Card Base = 11″ x 4 1/4″ Score & at 5 1/2″ then slide over and cut at 2 1/4″
  • Cut another 4 1/4″ x 2 1/4″ piece from left over card stock.
  • Inside / Designer paper = 4″ x 5 1/4″
  • Basic White: Cut 2 – 4″ x 2″ pieces to attach to mats
  • Frontc Flap / Designer paper = 4″ x 3″

Let’s take a closer look at each card … Here is our North Pole Delivery card that was featured in the video. It’s full of cheer and whimsy, this patterned paper set features dogs, bears, and more animals delivering holiday letters and packages in classic Christmas colors of reds and greens. Plus, you get two sheets of pre-cut images for easy accents!

I really love this easy fun fold and it works for any occasion … Here is the Hobby Haven! This is a fun designer paper to work with! It will bring your favorite pastimes to life … Charming illustrations inspired by baking, sewing, reading, and other simple pleasures!

My last feature “Easter Joy” …. SNEAK PEEK into the January / April Mini Catalog (Available January 6th, 2026). Hop into creativity with Easter Joy 12″ x 12″ Specialty Designer Series Paper! This delightful patterned paper brings the charm of spring to your handmade cards and paper crafting projects. Features playful bunnies, Easter eggs, blooming flowers, and festive baskets, all with a hint of metallic foil shine.

As you can see, this easy fun fold truly steals the show—it’s versatile, beginner-friendly, and works beautifully across every season and theme. From the whimsical holiday charm of North Pole Delivery, to the cozy, everyday delights found in Hobby Haven, and finally the fresh spring sparkle of the NEW Easter Joy Designer Paper, this fold lets each pattern shine in its own special way. One simple layout, endless possibilities!

If one (or all 😉) of these papers has caught your eye, now is the perfect time to add them to your craft stash and start creating cards that wow. Thank you so much for watching along with me—be sure to check the links below and let this fun fold inspire your next handmade creation.

Happy stamping! 💕✂️

True Blue Florals Card & Scrapbook page

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Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

If you haven’t heard the buzz … We’ve got some exclusive NEW products just for you! If you love exclusive products, you’re going to love our NEW Product of the Month, a promotion centered around a special product release every month. The Product of the Month items are specially designed to be some of the best items Stampin’ Up! has to offer that aren’t available in any of our catalogs or our Online Exclusives.

Every month we’ll release a new item that is only available for purchase once per account. These items will be limited quantity and are likely to sell out quickly—once they’re sold out, they’re gone for good! To participate in Product of the Month, you MUST have a Stampin’ Up! account.  You can purchase the Product of the Month item for only $5 when you spend $75 on a single order.

The True Blue Florals DSP is the featured December 2025 offering from Stampin’ Up!, debuting as the first installment in their new monthly “Product of the Month” program. This 12″ × 12″ pack includes twelve sheets — two each of six double-sided designs — printed in rich, monochromatic blue tones (Balmy Blue and Night of Navy) that evoke elegance and calm.

Because the paper is acid- and lignin-free, it’s photo-safe and ideal for long-lasting cards, scrapbooks, and paper-craft projects. With its versatile floral patterns, True Blue Florals balances simplicity and sophistication — perfect for clean, minimalist cards or layered, detailed designs.

Available for just $5 with a qualifying $75 Stampin’ Up! order (while supplies last), it’s a great value for anyone who loves creating handmade paper crafts this season.

The True Blue Florals Designer Series Paper is one of those collections you’ll reach for again and again—beautiful, versatile, and truly timeless. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect paper to spark fresh inspiration this month, this is it. Don’t wait… December’s Product of the Month is only available while supplies last, and you’re going to want it in your crafting stash!

Thanks for stopping by … Have a wonderful day!

Click Here to Begin Shopping with me!

It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere

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Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

If your feed looks anything like mine, it’s been Black Friday this, Cyber Monday that, and Christmas everywhere you turn! So today, I decided we’re taking a tiny detour from the holiday hustle. My card features the Celebratory Sips Suite, and let me tell you… this adorable POP-UP card is the perfect little getaway. No snowflakes, no sales—just a cute, clever design that will make every fellow sip enthusiast smile. Cheers to a crafty escape! 🍷✨

Let’s begin … My cardbase is Basic White and cut 11″ x 4 1/4″ then scored and folded at 5 1/2″. I like using the “tent fold” every now and then – it surprises people! As you see, my card begins with a Bloody Mary (I am from Wisconsin – lol) This simple layout has an embossed background using the Exposed Brick Embossing Folder – I just love the texture you get with this.

The back drop can be any designer paper you want to use to highlight your images, I went simple with a black and white dots, and a black mat to really draw attention to the focal point – my cocktails. The drinks were die cut with the coordinating dies, however I did fussy cut around the edges of the garnishes.

The greeting was die cut in Old Olive using the Stylish Shapes Dies. The were placed in the opposite corner on the back drop to balance the card and allow you to see the designer paper on your backdrop … subtle, and effective.

Are you ready for the POP!?

🛠️ How This Pop-Up “Box” Card Is Made

  • Start with a 3″ × 3″ square of cardstock. Score it every ¾” — so you’ll have three score lines, dividing the square into four equal ¾” × 3″ panels. When folded, this becomes the “box” or step mechanism that pops up.
  • Fold along the score lines to form the little “box.” The two end panels will act as the base tabs. Add adhesive to those end panels. These tabs will be glued over the fold line inside your card, meaning one end will glue to the “floor” of the card and the opposite end will glue to the “back wall” (or top half) of the card when closed.
  • With the “box” in place and secured, you now have a raised horizontal shelf inside your card — perfect for attaching your decorative elements (like the bottles, glasses, fruits from your Celebratory Sips Suite paper).
  • Make sure your pop-up shelf folds flat when the card closes. Once open — boom — you’ll get that little scene popping forward, giving dimension and surprise.

And there you have it — a cute & sassy card with a little pop-up sip station tucked right inside! It’s bright, it’s fun, and it’s guaranteed to bring a grin to anyone who opens it. Great birthday card for a guy or gal. I mean… who wouldn’t love a surprise cocktail bar popping out at them? 🍹✨ Creating this one reminded me that sometimes we just need a playful escape — a little creativity, a little color, and maybe a little something to sip while we craft. After all… it’s 5 o’clock somewhere, right?

Thanks for stopping in for a sip & a smile today… cheers to more creative moments ahead! 🍹

Creativity Wrapped Up 🎁 Special Savings

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Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Starting today at 8 a.m. (MT), you can save big on prepaid Paper Pumpkin subscriptions! If you have been considering giving Paper Pumpkin a try, now’s the time! Take advantage of this Cyber Monday offer for fantastic deals on 3-, 6-, and 12-month prepaid subscriptions.

Whether you’re looking for a last-minute Christmas present that sparks creativity or resolving to make time to craft in the new year, a Paper Pumpkin subscription is the gift that keeps on giving.

Prepaid Paper Pumpkin subscriptions will be discounted as follows:

3-month prepaid: $61.00 (regular price $81.00) Save $20
6-month prepaid: $122.00 (regular price $162.00) Save $40
12-month prepaid: $244.00 (regular price $324.00) $ave $80

This offer ends December 9 at 11:59 p.m. (MT), so make sure you don’t miss out! CLICK HERE to shop prepaid subscriptions.

And now, here’s the fine print.

  • Subscriptions purchased during this promotion start immediately with the December Watercolor in Bloom Kit. This kit cannot be skipped. (I love this … no more searching your emails for a subscription link – it automatically begins! Easy Peasy!)
  • Do not purchase multiple subscriptions for the same recipient. The subscriptions will all start with the Watercolor in Bloom Kit, so the recipient will end up receiving duplicates of the same kit each month. Send one to yourself so you can get together and have a craft day!

There’s no better time to treat yourself or someone you love to a year filled with inspiration, surprise projects, and crafty joy. These prepaid Paper Pumpkin savings ends December 9th, so be sure to grab your subscription while the deal is still live.

Whether you’re gifting it or claiming it for your own creative time, you’ll be so glad you said “yes” to a little monthly magic. 🎁✨ A Paper Pumpkin subscription is so much more than a gift — it’s an escape, a spark of joy, and a monthly reminder that creativity can brighten even the quietest days.

👉 Click here to shop your prepaid subscription and save today!

Thank you so much for stopping by today — Wishing you a wonderful, creative day ahead. 💕

The Beauty of Christmas in Red & Gold

Posted in Christmas, HANDMADE CARDS by

Good Morning Stampin’ Friends ~

There’s something so classic and elegant about red and gold at the holidays — and today I’m sharing a card that brings that traditional beauty to life. This card highlights the Traditional Labels Bundle paired with the gorgeous red-and-gold poinsettia pattern from the Traditions of Christmas Designer Series Paper. I’ve included every measurement and step-by-step instruction so you can recreate it exactly (or use it as a jumping off point for your own variations). Let’s make something beautiful!

Measurements:

  • Red Cardstock: 8 ½” x 5 ½” – Score at 4 ¼” and 3 ½” x 2 ½” – greeting
  • Basic White cardstock:  4” x 5 ¼” – inside
  • Gold Foil:  4” x 5 ¼”
  • Designer Paper: 3 ¾” x 5”
  • Gold Mesh Ribbon: Approximately 24” – to create a fluffy bow!

Instructions:

  • Start with Real Red cardstock measuring 8 ½” x 5 ½” to make your card base.  Score at 4 ¼” and burnish.
  • Attach Designer paper onto Gold Foil Specialty Paper / cardfront
  • Wrap approximately 14” around card front and tie a knot on the right-hand side – but not to edge
  • Stamp Greeting onto small Real Red with VersaMark
  • Emboss greeting with Gold embossing powder
  • Die cut greeting with shaped die from Traditional labels bundle
  • Adhere die cut greeting over ribbon & onto cardfront with dimensionals.
  • Weave remaining ribbon back and forth over knot and secure it with loose ends of the tied ribbon.  Tie with knot and trim ends.
  • Using liquid glue, embellish with sequins as desired.
  • Secure white cardstock to inside of card. 

This card is a lovely way to showcase the Traditions of Christmas poinsettia paper — the red and gold are pure holiday glamour, and the Traditional Labels Bundle makes sentiment placement quick and beautiful. I hope you enjoy making this as much as I did! If you try it, please share a photo — I’d love to see your color choices and embellishment ideas. ❤️🎄

Have a warm and beautiful Sunday … enjoy your day!

Adorable Nutcracker Tags Made into Cards

Posted in Christmas, HANDMADE CARDS by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Well, well, well… we are officially in the thick of a snowstorm here in Wisconsin—
and honestly, it feels like the entire state is buried under a fluffy white blanket today! ❄️
It’s the perfect kind of day to stay inside, stay warm, and enjoy a little creativity.

Today also happens to be Small Business Saturday, and while I never want to shout “shop small” at anyone, I do love the gentle reminder that days like this are a wonderful opportunity to support the people behind the storefronts—whether they’re local shops in town or the online businesses you’ve grown to trust. It’s really about connection, community, and choosing to lift each other up.

Yesterday I shared the replay of my Facebook LIVE where I highlighted two amazing kits, the Adventure Awaits Card Kit and the Nutcracker Tag Kit. Today, with the snow swirling outside, it seems like the perfect moment to cozy in and give you a closer look at the cards I created— Those tags are adorable on their own, but transforming them into cards felt like giving them a whole new purpose. I’ll walk through how I layered them, how I chose coordinating cardstock, and why simple tweaks made them feel extra festive and giftable.

Snowy days like this remind me just how comforting it is to create something with your hands. There’s a certain warmth that comes from crafting— from the quiet moments trimming paper,
to the satisfaction of adding that last embellishment, to the joy of knowing someone will smile when they open your handmade card.

Let’s begin with our first tag / card ….

You’ll notice that I switch out banners and greetings to create a whole new feel. My background is the Garden Green Two Tone paper, and secured to a Basic White A2 Card base. I embossed it with the Peaceful Greenery Embossing Folder and used a sanding block to remove some of the color and pull the white out! I love the festive look!!

Next up ….

I had a lot of fun with this card!! I was playing with the Designer papers I had on hand … my card front was create using the Branching Out dies and the Traditions of Christmas Designer Paper. I matted this backdrop with Crumb Cake to match her boot & hat. That piece was cut slightly larger and then I used my 1″ Circle Punch to create the same look as the dies. The little presents around her feet … they come from the North Pole Delivery Specialty paper. I also die cut a piece of Vellum using the Spotlight on Nature dies.

My third tag into card is …

I began by trimming the Pool Party color off my Nutcracker … I wanted to pull the Real Red and Old Olive out of this one. You’ll see the Old Olive in his shoulder pads. I again use the Traditions of Christmas Designer paper and the Branching Out dies. This time I used a partial sheet of cardstock as my mat … I wanted to leave a little more red showing. I added a smaller circle cut from Vellum using the Spotlight on Nature Dies… I do this technique to highlight either the tag (as in our second card) or the greeting as in this card.

My last tag to card is ….

Here’s my Little Drummer Boy card! Not sure if you caught this, but on cards 2 and 3 – I did not use the banners, so I used them as my backdrop!! My cardfront is Basic White and die cut with the Textured Notes Dies. I used Pecan Pie as my cardbase – I thought it looked nice with his hair and highlighted the rest of the colors. The bakers twine used for tying up the tags, was used as an embellishment to showcase the tags. On this one is saved the “For You” greeting because the Drummer Boy asks … Shall I play for you?

I had so much fun making these special cards. Cards truly make the perfect gift. They’re personal. They’re thoughtful… And they’re filled with a little piece of you. I hope this inspires you to share your creativity with someone who could use a little lift.

Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the beauty of a good snow day… it’s Wisconsin, after all. Tell me where you’re from and how’s the weather by you!!

Adventure Awaits Card Kit & a Holiday Surprise!

Posted in Card Kits, HANDMADE CARDS, Kits Collection by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Today I have a fun video to share with you—and this one is packed with creativity! It features the Adventure Awaits Card Kit, one of the brand-new kits released earlier this month. If you’re looking for something fresh, inspiring, and perfectly versatile, this kit is going to steal your heart.

Let your creativity take the driver’s seat with the Adventure Awaits Kit. 🌟 Coast along in the retro colours, enjoy the hand-drawn artwork, and create cards that feel right at home whether you’re crafting something feminine or masculine. With printed sentiments, precut paper, and soft vellum touches, this kit truly delivers a crafty escape.

✨ Kit Includes Everything You Need
✔ Makes 9 cards — 3 each of 3 unique designs
✔ Precut pieces & printed sentiments
✔ Vellum details
✔ A fun, go-at-your-own-pace experience

Catch the replay of my Facebook LIVE where I not only walk you through creating each of the beautiful Adventure Awaits cards, but also take a creative detour into the Nutcracker Tags Kit.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO ON YOUTUBE

And ohhh… the adorable alternative projects I made with it— Yes, you guessed it… CARDS!! 🎄✨ If you love stretching your kits and turning tags into full-blown card designs, you won’t want to miss tomorrows post. I will be sharing each of the tags and it’s coordinating card with you. I will share how I made each one along with the supplies needed.

Thank you for joining me today, and I’ll meet you back here tomorrow to walk you through how I took those tags and created those cute cards.

Happy Thanksgiving, My Friends

Posted in HOLIDAYS by

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

On this beautiful day of gratitude, my heart is especially full. I want to take a moment to express just how thankful I am for you and the joy you bring into this little corner of the world through your creativity. What began with simple handmade cards sent to loved ones has blossomed into this big, beautiful, inspiring community—a place where friendships form, ideas spark, and kindness is shared so freely. It means more to me than words can ever fully express.

As you celebrate Thanksgiving, I hope your day is wrapped in joy, gratitude, and the warmth of loved ones. May your home be filled with laughter, your heart be at peace, and your table be surrounded by people who mean the world to you.

Thank you for being such an important part of my creative community. Truly… I wouldn’t be the same without you.

Wishing you a beautiful and blessed Thanksgiving. 🧡🍂