Designer Paper Magic! A WOW Fun Fold

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!

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!!

Hobby Haven: Thinking of You Card

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

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! 💕✂️

Creativity Wrapped Up 🎁 Special Savings

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

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

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!!

Big Hugs & Peaceful Gardens Suite

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Today we’re turning our attention to one of the most serene and versatile collections in the Mini Catalog—the Peaceful Garden Suite.

If you love crafting with beauty, calm, and a touch of elegance, this suite is going to tug at your creative heartstrings. Between its soothing color palette, organic floral imagery, and the refreshing mix of textures, Peaceful Garden brings a breath of fresh air to your projects—whether you’re creating for the holidays or well into the new year.

My card begins with the classic A2 size in Secret Sea cardstock—one of those colors that just wraps your project in a soft, peaceful glow.

To build the foundation, I reached for one of the gorgeous floral patterns from the Peaceful Garden Designer Series Paper. With just a quick trim to 4″ x 5-1/4″, this layer fills the card front with gentle beauty and effortless charm. This suite’s paper is incredible because every pattern feels soft and nature-inspired, making it easy to pair with any sentiment or occasion.

Next came the labels from the Peace on Earth Bundle. I love when a die set gives you options, and these two label dies are perfect for creating clean, dimensional focal points:

  • The largest label was cut from the dark glimmer paper—it adds just the right amount of sparkle without overpowering the design.
  • The smaller label was die-cut from Basic White, giving me the perfect place to stamp my greeting.

And speaking of greetings…
I chose “Big Hugs for a Good Friend”—a heartfelt, anytime sentiment that shows just how wonderfully versatile this bundle really is. Yes, it shines during the holidays, but sentiments like this carry your creativity long past December. Think friendship cards, encouragement cards, thinking-of-you cards… this bundle has year-round opportunity written all over it.

To elevate the elegance, I added the stunning Misty Moonlight & Silver Edged Ribbon. It pairs beautifully with the cool tones in the Peaceful Garden Suite and gives a soft shimmer without being too bold.

For the final touch, a sprinkle of the Hues of Blue Embellishments brought everything together with a gentle sparkle that echoes the designer paper and glimmer label. These little gems are subtle but impactful—they catch the light just right!

If you’re looking for a suite that can carry you through winter, spring, and beyond, this is it. Thanks for stopping by ~

Simply Sunday: Simply Beautiful Traditions of Christmas

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

There’s something magical about crafting on a Sunday morning—especially when we blend the classic beauty of Christmas with a fresh, modern twist. Today’s project is all about celebrating the Simply Beautiful Traditions of Christmas using the gorgeous Traditions of Christmas Suite, but with a little unexpected flair… PINK! Yes, pink is everywhere this year—Halloween, fall décor, and now Christmas cards. And honestly? I’m here for it!

I began with a soft Bubble Bath card base measuring 8-1/2″ x 5-1/2″, scored at 4-1/4″. Clean, simple, perfect. For the card front, I trimmed a piece to 4″ x 5-1/4″ and ran it through the Peaceful Greenery Embossing Folder. This embossed frame is everything—delicate leaves, soft texture, and a beautiful focal point that sets the stage for the entire card.

Inside that embossed frame, I heat embossed the sentiment in gold embossing powder, using the “Just for You” from the Traditional Labels Stamp Set. Even though this suite leans into Christmas, this sentiment gives the card wonderful versatility. With just one phrase, this becomes an all-occasion card wrapped in festive elegance. Perfect for my daughters December 23rd birthday!

For the finishing touch, I die cut one of the stunning floral sprays from the Traditions of Christmas Specialty Designer Paper. The gold foiling on this collection is absolutely breathtaking, and layering that spray along the embossed frame instantly elevated the card—no stamping required!

As I look at the finished card, I’m thinking it could use just a sprinkle more sparkle… maybe a few of the Traditional Sparkling Sequins to catch the light and add that extra holiday charm.

If you’re loving today’s Simply Sunday project, imagine the endless combinations you can create with the Traditions of Christmas Suite. From quick & elegant cards like this one to rich, traditional holiday creations—it’s truly a suite that does it all, without overwhelm.

Wishing you a creative and peaceful Sunday, my friends. 💗✨

Stepping It Up with the Extraordinary Flora Bundle!

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Yesterday I shared a simple — yet simply beautiful — card using the Extraordinary Flora Washi Tape, and today we’re taking things to the next level! I pulled out the Extraordinary Flora Bundle and let the creativity flow…

I began with a Basic White card base and added a Flirty Flamingo card front for that bright, cheerful pop of color. Before adding anything else, I stamped the floral images in Flirty Flamingo ink onto the card front. I just love what stamping color-on-color does for a project… it creates this soft, subtle dimension that feels like a whisper of texture. It’s such an easy way to build a beautiful background without overpowering your focal point.

Since I already had the ink open, I stamped my “Just a Note” sentiment from the Simply Said stamp set — one of my favorites for timeless greetings, onto a white piece of cardstock and then die cut from the Stylish Shapes Dies. Then the real fun began! The moment you start die-cutting the florals from the Extraordinary Flora tape, the magic truly happens. Those soft watercolor designs come to life when they’re cut, layered, tucked, and lifted. I arranged mine around the sentiment, creating a playful, joyful bloom of color that feels like a handcrafted hug. It’s amazing how something as simple as layering die-cuts can turn a card into an experience.

To finish off my design, I added Holographic Resin Dots for a touch of sparkle — they catch the light in the sweetest way — and tied a tiny bow from white baker’s twine to bring everything together. A simple card becomes a special card when you add these little touches.

And that’s what I love most about creating… and sharing… and sending cards. There’s something truly heartwarming about crafting with intention, knowing that when someone opens that envelope, they’ll feel seen, loved, and remembered. Whether it’s a birthday, a thank-you, or just a note to brighten someone’s day, handmade cards carry a bit of our hearts with them.

Thanks for stopping by today, my friends.

Extraordinary Flora Washi Tape Steals the Spotlight

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

If you’re ready to make a bold floral statement in your paper crafting, then the Extraordinary Flora Washi Tape is your new best friend. This isn’t your average skinny washi — at a generous 3-¼″ wide, it’s like a watercolor garden unfurling right on your cardstock. The tape is a feast for the eyes, alternating between dreamy pinks and purples in the same botanical motif, which gives you double the creative possibilities in one roll. It feels vibrant, lush, and completely show-stopping.

What I love most is how instantly it transforms even the simplest card. I applied a strip of this gorgeous tape onto Basic White cardstock — with a pop of Highland Heather behind it and the Brick embossing folder for texture and suddenly before I knew it, my “simple card” looked like something straight out of a boutique. If you enjoy quick crafting without sacrificing the “wow,” this tape is going to be your new best friend.

You can also use it for backgrounds, embellishments, gift wrap accents, planner pages, scrapbook layouts — this tape gives you enough length (a full 10 yards!) and enough artistic flair to create over and over again. It’s bright, it’s happy, and it brings the look of hand-painted art to your projects with almost no effort at all.

If you’re looking for a way to add major floral “wow” to your cards this season, treat yourself to a roll of Extraordinary Flora Washi Tape. It’s beauty, ease, and creativity all rolled into one — and I promise, once you try it, you’ll be reaching for it again and again. Let your creativity bloom big!

Thanks for stopping by today, my friends. Let your creativity bloom big!

Silent Snowfall Shines in This Eye-Catching Diagonal Card Front

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Today I’m excited to share two beautiful winter cards featuring the Silent Snowfall Specialty Paper and the Snowflake Kisses Dies. These cards were part of last week’s Facebook LIVE—if you missed it, no worries! You can catch the full video replay on YouTube by simply clicking the link. Every Tuesday night I go LIVE to share tips, techniques, new products, and plenty of creative inspiration. My goal is always the same: fun, simple cards that are beautiful yet easy to recreate, and these winter cards fit that perfectly.

For both designs, I started with an A2 tent-fold style card base—11″ x 4¼”, scored at 5½”. From there, the magic happens! The first card features that stunning diagonal-cut front using the dreamy Silent Snowfall paper backed with sparkling glitter. One angled cut is all it takes to turn a traditional card into a real wow piece. The Snowflake Kisses Dies add the perfect frosty finishing touch. The second card follows the same layout and the same coloring technique using the blending brushes. I stepped it up a bit with more sparkle, showcasing the Peaceful Garden Glimmer paper and some additional layering.

All the dimensions, cutting instructions, and step-by-step details can be found right in the video, so grab a notebook if you want to jot them down. Whether you’re looking to try a new layout or simply love winter crafting, these cards will warm your heart with creativity.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW ON YOUTUBE

Thank you for joining me today …. I hope you enjoy the projects and feel inspired to give this diagonal-cut design a try!

Runner-Up Spotlight – Jolly Holly Bundle Beauty! 🎄

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

It’s time to celebrate our Runner-Up in the Fall Stamping Retreat Attendee Swap Contest — the talented Toni Morgan! 🌟

Toni created this stunning Christmas card using the Jolly Holly Bundle, and oh my goodness… it’s SO Christmas! 🎅💚 You all know how much I love holly — it’s one of those timeless images that just says “holiday season” to me, and Toni captured that beautifully.

She started with a Cherry Cobbler card base, then embossed the front with the coordinating Jolly Holly Hybrid Embossing Folder. This folder is really special — it’s one of those unique tools where a die fits inside the folder so you can cut and emboss at the same time! Talk about a timesaver that adds an instant wow factor!

Toni layered her design with a Very Vanilla mat, perfectly framing the card front and her greeting (stamped in Cherry Cobbler, of course!). One of the things my customers love most about Stampin’ Up! is the color coordination — the way ink, paper, and embellishments all match beautifully — and Toni showcased that perfectly here.

For her focal point, Toni used the two rectangular dies from the bundle — one to cut into the Cherry Cobbler layer, exposing the Very Vanilla beneath so she could stamp her sentiment, and the other to create a delicate gold frame that she layered around it. Such a clever design element! ✨

To complete her card, she stamped, colored, and die-cut the holly to adorn her framed sentiment, creating that festive finishing touch. And because Toni has an amazing eye for detail, she added the Cherry Cobbler & Pearl Adhesive-Backed Berries to her embossed background — giving her card texture, shine, and even more Christmas cheer. 🎁

This bundle was one of our Spotlight Sessions during retreat, so not only did attendees receive Toni’s beautiful swap card, but they also got to create three additional cards I designed to showcase the highlights of this wonderful bundle.

Toni’s card truly captures the joy and elegance of the holiday season — full of texture, color, and creativity. It’s no wonder she took home Runner-Up honors in our Attendee Swap Contest! 🏆❤️

I’ll be back tomorrow with our WINNER and her card. Thanks for stopping by!

Third Runner-Up Spotlight – Attendee Swap Fun! 🎉

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Today we’re sharing the 3rd runner-up from our Fall Stamping Retreat Attendee Swap, and let me tell you — this one is just stunning! 🌟

This beautiful card was created by Karie Kahrs using the Traditions of Christmas Suite. At first glance, you might think, “Christmas card,” but Karie took her creativity to the next level… she turned it into a Birthday Card! How clever is that? So many of us have loved ones with birthdays close to the holidays who prefer a “real” birthday card — this is pure inspiration! 🎂✨

The base of the card is Old Olive, with coordinating mats and a banner to frame the design perfectly. Karie die-cut the floral piece from the suite and popped it up on her focal point, creating dimension and a gorgeous layered look.

Here’s where her creativity really shone: the birthday greeting was heat embossed in gold, giving it that elegant, celebratory feel. She then added a swatch of gold foil paper behind the flowers and sentiment to make everything pop. And to top it off, she added the Traditional Sparkling Sequins in Gold from the suite — just the perfect finishing touch! ✨💛

This card is a fantastic example of taking a Christmas-themed suite and using it beyond the holidays. Karie’s design proves that a little imagination and clever use of products can create something totally unique — and that’s exactly why she earned 3rd place in our Attendee Swap Contest! 🏆

We hope Karie’s card inspires you to look at your stamp sets and papers in a whole new way. Who says Christmas products are just for December? 😉

Thanks for joining me today … stop back for our 2nd runner up tomorrow!

A Heartfelt Sympathy Card with the Peaceful Garden Suite

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Happy Sunday! Today I’m excited to share a card that highlights the Peaceful Garden Suite, a stunning collection that beautifully blends the peaceful spirit of the holidays with the timeless elegance of nature. While it’s perfect for creating heartfelt Christmas cards, tags, and scrapbook pages, what I love most about this suite is how effortlessly it transitions into projects for any occasion — even those moments when you want to send a comforting message of sympathy or peace.

For today’s card, I wanted to show that versatility. The background features the soft, serene pattern of doves from the Peaceful Garden Designer Paper — a symbol of peace and hope. The sentiment, “With Deepest Sympathy,” is stamped on a circle die cut using the Spotlight on Nature Dies, giving it a gentle focal point. I added delicate die cuts and a graceful dove from the suite, bringing a sense of calm and compassion to the design. To complete the look, I added some of the beautiful ribbon behind my sentiment.

🌿 Peaceful. Elegant. Timeless.
That’s the heart of the Peaceful Garden Suite.

If you’re looking for a suite that brings both elegance and emotion to your cardmaking, the Peaceful Garden Suite is a perfect choice. Whether you’re creating for Christmas or crafting cards that comfort and uplift year-round, this collection helps you share your heart through handmade art. 💕 Click the links below to explore the full suite and bring a touch of peace to your next project.

Thank you for taking time out of your Sunday to join me today.