Sunflowers, Texture, and a Pop of Color—Yes, Please!

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

It feels so good to be back creating and sharing with you again—and today I’ve got two beautiful cards to show you, featuring the Sunflower 3-D Embossing Folder. I have to tell you, this folder is pure magic. My head is spinning with all the ideas and techniques I want to try using it—seriously, it’s a creative goldmine!

For both of today’s cards, I started with one of my favorite and super simple techniques: inking directly onto the embossing folder. Yep, you heard that right! I tapped my Misty Moonlight ink pad directly onto the side of the folder where the image is concave. Once your paper is inside and you run it through the Stampin’ Cut & Emboss Machine, the ink hugs all the right places and leaves you with the most amazing textured print. And that’s just the beginning!

My first card design takes that embossed and inked background and cuts it into three panels (from a 5″ x 3 3/4″ piece). I mounted the panels onto a Misty Moonlight mat cut to 5 1/4″ x 4″, creating a striking visual with just a bit of white space between the strips. Then, to add a touch of softness and extra texture, I tied a simple bow with linen ribbon. The greeting? It’s from the Full of Charm Paper Pumpkin Kit—a great reminder of why I love and keep subscribing to Paper Pumpkin each month. Those exclusive stamp sets are treasures I reach for again and again!

Now, the second card… is what happens when you stamp with a friend and she has colorful ideas!! Wow, and does it pop with color! After embossing the image, I used a sponge dauber to lightly apply Crushed Curry over the sunflower petals. Then I went a bit bolder, deepening the flower centers with more intense color. To really bring out the detail, I used a flat paintbrush to tap on a bit of Pecan Pie ink—and the result is absolutely gorgeous! I framed this beauty using the Textured Notes Dies (just trim your embossed panel slightly smaller than the frame), then mounted it to a Misty Moonlight card base.

To finish it off, I used one of my go-to greetings from The Right Words stamp set—perfect sentiments for just about any occasion. I die-cut it using the Stylish Shapes Dies, which always seem to give my cards that polished look.

These two cards are just a peek at what’s possible with this Sunflower 3-D folder—and trust me, you’re going to want it in your collection. It’s a staple for any season and pairs beautifully with your favorite inks and techniques. So go ahead—treat yourself to a little creative joy!

And if you’re not already subscribed to Paper Pumpkin, now’s the perfect time to jump in. The stamps alone are worth it, and the kits offer fresh ideas every month. (Not to mention, they coordinate beautifully with products you already love.)

As always, I hope today’s projects spark a little inspiration in your heart. If you need any of the supplies mentioned—or have questions—I’m here to help. Happy stamping, friends!

🎉 Don’t forget, Stampin’ Friends — there’s still time to get in on my Tote-lly Awesome July Giveaway! 🎒 With every $50 order (before shipping & tax), your name goes into the drawing to win this adorable Strawberry Slush Craft Tote—perfect for carrying your supplies in style. Whether you’re crafting at home or heading to a class, this tote is a must-have! 🥰 Get your order in by July 31st to be entered. You’re going to love it!

Spring Stamping Retreat Card Showcase

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

Today I’m thrilled to share three great cards from our recent Spring Stamping Retreat Attendee Card Swap. Our talented attendees have truly outdone themselves, creating beautiful designs that highlight the artistry and versatility of our favorite stamping products. Let’s dive into the details and celebrate their amazing work.

Card 1: Cheerful Daisies Card

The star of this card is undoubtedly the daisies, stamped in soft, cheerful hues of Moody Mauve, Bubble Bath and Mossy Meadow that evoke the freshness of a spring garden. The intricate detailing of the stamps brings each daisy to life, showcasing the versatility of the set.

Kellie attendee used a the “Two-Step” stamping technique to add depth and dimension to the daisies, seamlessly transitioning between pink and mauve. This technique enhances the realism of the flowers and adds a dynamic feel to the card.

Card 2: Layered Florals Embossing Folder Card

Next, we have a stunning creation featuring the Layered Florals Embossing Folder. This card showcases the elegance and sophistication that embossing can bring to any project.

To accentuate the embossed details, Karie used a coloring technique, lightly coloring over the raised areas with the Stampin’ Blends markers. This not only highlights the intricate floral patterns but also adds a soft, vintage touch.

A simple, elegant sentiment is stamped and placed delicately at the top of the card. This minimalist approach allows the embossed florals to remain the focal point, creating a harmonious balance between the elements.

Card 3: Simply Zinnia Bundle and Embossing Folder Card

This card captures the essence of zinnias in full bloom, bursting with color and texture. This bundle includes both stamps and dies, allowing for beautifully stamped and precisely cut zinnias. Sandy then used a combination of bold, bright colors to reflect the natural beauty of zinnias, resulting in a card that is both eye-catching and joyful.

The coordinating embossing folder provides a detailed backdrop that complements the stamped and die-cut zinnias. The embossed background adds texture and interest without overwhelming the main floral elements. Sandy added a touch of bling with the 2024-2026 In Color Glimmer paper.

This was the WINNING card for our attendee Swap!! They all get to vote for their top 3 favorites … then the votes are tallied and a winner announced. Our Winner receives a Gift Certificates for … Stampin’ Up! products!!

I hope these beautiful creations inspire you to experiment with your stamping and embossing techniques. Our Spring Stamping Retreat attendees have truly showcased their talent and creativity, demonstrating how versatile and impactful these products can be. Whether you’re new to stamping or a seasoned pro, there’s always something new to discover and create. Happy stamping!