Blog Posts

Garden Poetry – How to Create a Fold Flat Rectangle Box.

Garden Poetry – How to Create a Fold Flat Rectangle Box. – Encircled with Love – Independent Stampin’ Up! – Crafting with Ashee – Lincoln UK.

Garden Poetry – How to Create a Fold Flat Rectangle Box. – Encircled with Love – Independent Stampin’ Up! – Crafting with Ashee – Lincoln UK.

If you enjoy making 3D papercraft projects, you are going to love this clever little box! Today I’m sharing how to create a Fold Flat Rectangle Box using the beautiful Garden Poetry Designer Series Paper. This design is perfect for small gifts, treats, or even as a decorative way to present a handmade card.

The best part? The box folds completely flat, making it ideal for storing in your craft room or posting to a friend before they assemble it. It’s practical, stylish, and surprisingly easy to make.

Garden Poetry - How to Create a Fold Flat Rectangle Box. - Encircled with Love - Independent Stampin' Up! - Crafting with Ashee - Lincoln UK.
Garden Poetry – How to Create a Fold Flat Rectangle Box. – Encircled with Love – Independent Stampin’ Up! – Crafting with Ashee – Lincoln UK.

A Beautiful Designer Paper Choice

The Garden Poetry Designer Series Paper really shines in this project. The soft floral patterns make the box look elegant while still keeping the design simple.

For my samples, I created two different colour versions:

  • Pumpkin Pie – A warm and vibrant box paired with floral DSP in beautiful autumnal tones.
  • Blackberry Bliss – A rich and elegant version that gives the project a more dramatic feel.

Both colour combinations highlight the patterned paper perfectly and show how easy it is to change the look of the project just by switching cardstock colours.

Garden Poetry - How to Create a Fold Flat Rectangle Box. - Encircled with Love - Independent Stampin' Up! - Crafting with Ashee - Lincoln UK.
Garden Poetry – How to Create a Fold Flat Rectangle Box. – Encircled with Love – Independent Stampin’ Up! – Crafting with Ashee – Lincoln UK.

Decorative Sentiment Feature

To decorate the front of each box, I used the Encircled With Love stamp set. The “thank you” sentiment is stamped and layered using circle punches, creating a bold focal point that sits beautifully on top of the patterned paper.

Adding a few embellishments gives the sentiment a little extra sparkle and helps draw the eye to the centre of the design.

Why You’ll Love This Fold Flat Box

This project is a great addition to your papercrafting skills because it combines style and practicality.

Some of the things I love about this design include:

  • It folds completely flat for easy storage.
  • It’s perfect for small gifts, chocolates, or crafty surprises.
  • The design is quick to customise with different papers and colours.
  • It’s a fantastic project for classes or craft groups.

If you run crafting sessions like I do with my Craft and Chat group, this is also a brilliant project to teach because it looks impressive but is very achievable.

Garden Poetry - How to Create a Fold Flat Rectangle Box. - Encircled with Love - Independent Stampin' Up! - Crafting with Ashee - Lincoln UK.
Garden Poetry – How to Create a Fold Flat Rectangle Box. – Encircled with Love – Independent Stampin’ Up! – Crafting with Ashee – Lincoln UK.

Perfect for So Many Occasions

Once you learn the structure of this box, you can easily adapt it for:

  • Birthday treats
  • Thank you gifts
  • Party favours
  • Christmas table gifts
  • Craft fair items

Simply change the Designer Series Paper, colours, or sentiment, and you’ll have a completely different look.

Measurements

  • Pumpkin Pie / BlackBerry Bliss Cardstock – 10″ X 8″ scored as follows:
    • On the longer side, 1 3/4″, 4 3/4″, 6 1/2 & 9 1/2″.
    • On the shorter side, 1/2″, 2 1/4″, 5 3/4″ & 7 1/2″.
  • Garden Poetry designer series paper (DSP)
    • 3 1/4″ X 2 3/4″ X 2 pieces
    • 3 1/4″ X 1 1/2″ X 2 pieces
    • 2 3/4″ X 1 12″ X 2 pieces
Template - Garden Poetry - How to Create a Fold Flat Rectangle Box. - Encircled with Love - Independent Stampin' Up! - Crafting with Ashee - Lincoln UK.
Template – Garden Poetry – How to Create a Fold Flat Rectangle Box. – Encircled with Love – Independent Stampin’ Up! – Crafting with Ashee – Lincoln UK.

Thank You for Stopping By!

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Product List

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

Create a Scene Card – Sweet Bugs – Easy Colouring Tutorial.

Create a Scene Card – Sweet Bugs – Easy Colouring Tutorial. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Create a Scene Card – Sweet Bugs – Easy Colouring Tutorial. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Creating sweet little scenes on a card is such a fun way to bring your stamped images to life, and this adorable Sweet Bugs card is the perfect example. By combining simple ink blending with easy alcohol marker colouring, you can quickly build a charming garden scene that feels playful and full of personality.

This project is great for practising colouring with Stampin’ Blends while also learning how to layer stamped images to create a storytelling style card.

Create a Scene Card - Sweet Bugs - Easy Colouring Tutorial. Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Create a Scene Card – Sweet Bugs – Easy Colouring Tutorial. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Creating the Soft Ink Blended Background

To begin, I created a soft background to represent the sky and grassy ground. The top portion of the card was lightly ink blended using Balmy Blue, which creates a gentle sky effect without overpowering the focal images.

For the bottom section, I blended Lemon Lime Twist to suggest grass and greenery. Keeping the blending soft and subtle allows the stamped images to remain the main focus of the design while still adding depth and interest to the background.

This simple two-colour blend is a great technique to use when building scene cards because it instantly sets the environment for your stamped images.

Building the Sweet Garden Scene

The adorable characters from the Sweet Bugs stamp set make it incredibly easy to create a fun story across the card.

I stamped several of the images and coloured them using Stampin’ Blends alcohol markers, which give smooth coverage and make shading very simple. The bright colours help the bugs stand out beautifully against the soft blended background.

The scene includes:

  • A friendly caterpillar enjoying the garden
  • A little bug reading a book
  • A buzzing bee flying above
  • Mushrooms, flowers, and leafy greenery to complete the setting

Arranging the elements along the bottom of the card helps create the look of a little garden path, while the flying bee adds movement to the design.

Adding Layers and Texture

To give the card a little extra detail, I added a strip of patterned paper down the left-hand side. This helps frame the scene while introducing additional colour and texture.

The images were cut using the matching Sweet Bugs dies, making them easy to layer and position around the card. Popping some of the elements up slightly also adds dimension and makes the scene feel more lively.

The sentiment “Hello Friend” fits perfectly with this cheerful design and finishes the card with a warm, friendly touch.

Why Scene Cards Are So Fun to Make

Scene cards are a wonderful way to use character stamps because they allow you to build a tiny world on your card front. Even simple colouring and basic layouts can create something that feels detailed and creative.

This type of card is also perfect for:

  • Practising colouring techniques
  • Using multiple images from a stamp set
  • Creating playful storytelling designs
  • Making cards that are perfect for all ages

The Sweet Bugs set is especially great for this because the images naturally work together to form a cute garden scene.

Measurements

  • Old Olive Cardstock – A6 Card Base – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half.
  • Basic White Cardstock – 14.35cm X 10cm X 2 pieces

Final Thoughts

This card is proof that you don’t need complicated techniques to create something eye-catching. With a little ink blending, some simple colouring, and a few adorable stamped images, you can build a charming scene that will definitely bring a smile to someone’s face.

If you enjoy colouring and creating story-style cards, this is a fantastic stamp set to experiment with.

Thank You for Stopping By!

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Product List

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

Make a One-Layer Birthday Card – Easy to Post.

Make a One-Layer Birthday Card – Easy to Post. – Layered Thoughts – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Make a One-Layer Birthday Card – Easy to Post. – Layered Thoughts – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you love making handmade cards but also want to keep postage costs low, this one-layer birthday card is a perfect solution! By keeping the design mostly flat and limiting embellishments, you can create a bright, cheerful card that is easy to mail without extra postage.

For this project, I created two colourful versions using the retiring In Colours. One card base uses Petunia Pop, while the second uses Peach Pie. These vibrant shades make a fantastic frame for the stamped background and really help the design pop.

Make a One-Layer Birthday Card - Easy to Post. - Layered Thoughts - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Make a One-Layer Birthday Card – Easy to Post. – Layered Thoughts – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

A Fun Stamped Background

The focal point of this card is the bold Happy Birthday sentiment from the Layered Thoughts stamp set. I stamped the sentiment in Shy Shamrock, which contrasts beautifully against the white background and ties in with the other colourful elements.

To create the playful background, I combined small images from three different stamp sets:

  • With You In Mind
  • Jar of Joy
  • Bee My Valentine

Mixing stamps from different sets is a great way to stretch your supplies and create a unique design. The flowers, hearts, and dots are stamped randomly across the card to create a lively, confetti-style background that feels celebratory and fun.

Make a One-Layer Birthday Card - Easy to Post. - Layered Thoughts - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Make a One-Layer Birthday Card – Easy to Post. – Layered Thoughts – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Retiring In Colours

This card is also a lovely way to showcase the retiring In Colours:

  • Peach Pie
  • Petunia Pop
  • Summer Splash
  • Shy Shamrock
  • Pretty in Pink

Using these colours together creates a bright, coordinated palette that feels fresh and happy—perfect for a birthday card.

Simple but Sparkly

The only embellishments added to these cards are a few rhinestones placed in the centres of some of the flowers. They add just a little sparkle and dimension.

However, if you plan to post your card, you can easily leave off the rhinestones. Without them, the card remains completely flat, making it ideal for standard postage.

Why One Layer Cards Are So Useful

One layer cards are brilliant when you need something quick and easy. They’re also perfect when you want to:

  • Keep postage costs down
  • Use up smaller stamps
  • Experiment with colour combinations
  • Create a fun stamped background

Despite their simplicity, they can still be incredibly eye-catching—just like this colourful birthday design.

Thank You for Stopping By!

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Product List

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

Capturing Smiles Bundle- Make this Easy Camera Themed Card.

Capturing Smiles Bundle- Make this Easy Camera Themed Card. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Capturing Smiles Bundle- Make this Easy Camera Themed Card. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you love creating cards with a fun and modern twist, this camera-themed design is such a joy to make! Using the Capturing Smiles Bundle from the Online Exclusives collection, I’ve created two bright and cheerful cards that are perfect for birthdays, celebrations or simply sending happy mail.

The bold camera design instantly becomes the star of the card, and I’ve paired it with colourful Designer Series Paper to really make everything pop.

Capturing Smiles Bundle- Make this Easy Camera Themed Card. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Capturing Smiles Bundle- Make this Easy Camera Themed Card. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

A Closer Look at the Design

The focal point of both cards is the fabulous layered camera from the Capturing Smiles Bundle. I die cut and assembled the different elements to give depth and dimension, allowing all the lovely details to stand out beautifully.

Inside the film strip, I created two different looks:

  • On the Pretty in Pink card base, I added sweet heart images for a playful and cheerful feel.
  • On the Summer Splash card base, I used simple black stamped scenic images for a clean, graphic style.

This really shows how versatile the bundle is — simply changing what appears inside the film strip completely transforms the finished look.

Capturing Smiles Bundle- Make this Easy Camera Themed Card. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Capturing Smiles Bundle- Make this Easy Camera Themed Card. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Designer Series Paper from the 24–26 In Colour Pack

Rather than ink blending, the soft patterned background behind the focal block is Designer Series Paper from the 24–26 In Colour pack. The subtle texture and colour variation in the paper adds interest while keeping the design cohesive.

Using patterned paper in this way is a great time-saver and gives a professional finish without any extra techniques. It also coordinates perfectly with the Pretty in Pink and Summer Splash card bases.

To frame the focal panel, I added a thin strip of foil edge along the border. This small detail introduces a touch of shine and really elevates the overall design.

Sentiments that Stand Out

The bold sentiments are from the Greetings for All Ephemera Pack, and they complement the playful camera theme perfectly.

  • “Oh, happy day!” adds a fun and celebratory feel.
  • “Best Wishes” keeps the design versatile for a range of occasions.

Because these are ready-made ephemera pieces, they make cardmaking quick and effortless while still looking polished and impactful.

Texture and Finishing Touches

Both cards feature embossed white panels to add subtle texture and break up the layers. A few coordinating embellishments finish each design and tie the colour scheme together beautifully.

The combination of:

  • Layered die cuts
  • Coordinating Designer Series Paper
  • Foil accents
  • Ready-made sentiments

creates a card that is simple to make but looks detailed and thoughtfully designed.

Why You’ll Love the Capturing Smiles Bundle

The Capturing Smiles Bundle is perfect for:

  • Celebration cards
  • Memory-themed projects
  • Scrapbook-inspired layouts
  • Travel or milestone designs

It’s modern, playful and incredibly versatile — and it pairs beautifully with the 24–26 In Colours.

If you’re looking for an easy yet eye-catching project, this camera-themed card is a brilliant one to try.

Thank You for Stopping By!

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Product List

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

Perfect Card for a Photography Fiend – Simple Tutorial.

Perfect Card for a Photography Fiend – Simple Tutorial. Capturing Smiles. Crafting with Ashee. Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Perfect Card for a Photography Fiend – Simple Tutorial. Capturing Smiles. Crafting with Ashee. Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you have a photography lover in your life, this card is an absolute winner! Today I’m sharing a bright and cheerful design made using the Capturing Smiles stamp and die set from the Online Exclusives range. It’s playful, modern and perfect for celebrating adventures, travel memories, or simply someone who never goes anywhere without their camera.

This design is bold, colourful and incredibly easy to recreate – ideal for batch making too!

A Pop of Retiring In Colours

For these cards, I’ve used the beautiful retiring In Colours:

  • Petunia Pop
  • Shy Shamrock
  • Summer Splash
  • Pretty in Pink
  • Peach Pie

These colours work so well together and really bring the camera theme to life. The bright tones give the cards a fun, summery feel while still keeping the layout clean and balanced.

One version features a Summer Splash film strip layered over a warm Peach Pie patterned background. The second version swaps things around with a Petunia Pop film strip against a Pretty in Pink backdrop. Changing the dominant colour completely transforms the feel of the design, even though the layout stays exactly the same.

Perfect Card for a Photography Fiend - Simple Tutorial. Capturing Smiles. Crafting with Ashee. Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Perfect Card for a Photography Fiend – Simple Tutorial. Capturing Smiles. Crafting with Ashee. Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Creating the Focal Point

The star of this card is the fabulous film strip die from Capturing Smiles. I love how it instantly adds movement and storytelling to a project.

Inside the film strip panels, I stamped simple black line images — a mountain camping scene, a beach umbrella scene, and a city skyline. Keeping the images in black allows the bold In Colours to really shine and stops the design from becoming too busy.

The vertical film strip naturally draws the eye down the card, creating a lovely sense of flow.

Perfect Card for a Photography Fiend - Simple Tutorial. Capturing Smiles. Crafting with Ashee. Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Perfect Card for a Photography Fiend – Simple Tutorial. Capturing Smiles. Crafting with Ashee. Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Adding Extra Detail

To complement the film strip, I stamped and die-cut multiple camera images in alternating In Colours. Arranging them in a neat column along the left-hand side adds balance and structure to the card.

A few enamel dots scattered around the design bring in texture and subtle sparkle without overwhelming the clean layout.

The sentiment “Hello Adventure” ties everything together beautifully. It’s perfect for:

  • Travel lovers
  • Gap year celebrations
  • Retirement adventures
  • Bon voyage cards
  • Or simply encouraging someone to chase their dreams

Why This Layout Works

This card design is a great example of how to:

  • Use bold colour combinations confidently
  • Keep stamped images simple for a modern look
  • Create impact with repetition
  • Make one layout and switch colours for multiple variations

If you run classes or craft clubs like I do, this layout is ideal because it’s easy to prep and adaptable for different colour schemes.

measurements

  • Petunia Pop / Summer Splash Cardstock – A6 Card Base – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half.
  • Basic White Cardstock – 14.35cm X 10cm.
  • Pretty in Pink / Peach Pie designer series paper (DSP) – 13.85cm X 9.5cm.
  • Basic White Cardstock – 11.5cm X 7.5cm
  • Summer Splash / Petunia Pop Cardstock – 8cm X 12cm.

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how fresh and energetic these cards feel. The combination of bright retiring In Colours and the playful camera theme makes this a brilliant card for anyone who loves capturing memories.

If you have the Capturing Smiles set in your collection, I highly recommend giving this layout a try. It’s simple, striking and guaranteed to raise a smile.

Thank You for Stopping By!

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Product List

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

How to Make this Preserves Themed Card.

How to Make this Preserves Themed Card. Simply Said. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

How to Make this Preserves Themed Card. Simply Said. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you love sweet, country-inspired designs, then this Preserves themed card is such a joy to create! The beautiful Homemade Sweetness DSP does all the hard work for you, with its charming jars of jam, honey and lemon curd illustrations. By simply fussy cutting the images from the Designer Series Paper, you can build a delightful layered scene that looks like you’ve stamped and coloured everything yourself.

Today I’m sharing two versions of this card – one in Misty Moonlight and the other in Granny Apple Green – each giving a slightly different feel while keeping that warm, homemade charm.

How to Make this Preserves Themed Card. Simply Said. Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
How to Make this Preserves Themed Card. Simply Said. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Fussy Cutting the Homemade Sweetness DSP

The star of this project is definitely the Homemade Sweetness DSP. The sheet featuring the preserves jars is perfect for detailed fussy cutting. I carefully cut out:

  • Strawberry Preserves
  • Blueberry jar
  • Peach preserve
  • Honey bear
  • Lemon Curd jar

Taking your time with sharp scissors makes all the difference here. The illustrations are bold and forgiving, which makes them ideal even if you’re newer to fussy cutting.

Once cut, you can arrange them in a row to create a sweet “kitchen shelf” effect across the centre of the card.

How to Make this Preserves Themed Card. Simply Said. Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
How to Make this Preserves Themed Card. Simply Said. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Creating the Misty Moonlight Version

For the first card, I used Misty Moonlight as the base. Paired with the blue floral pattern from the Homemade Sweetness DSP, it creates a fresh yet slightly rustic look.

To build the design:

  • Layer the floral DSP onto the Misty Moonlight card base.
  • Add a strip of coordinating patterned paper across the centre to ground the jars.
  • Arrange the fussy cut jars and honey bear across the strip, popping some up on Dimensionals for depth.

The deep blue background really makes the bright preserves colours stand out beautifully. A simple “Happy Birthday” sentiment finishes the card without overpowering the detailed focal point.

Creating the Granny Apple Green Version

The second version uses Granny Apple Green for a brighter, more playful feel. This version feels fresh and cheerful – perfect for spring and summer birthdays.

For this design:

  • Choose the heart-patterned DSP as your main background.
  • Add a contrasting strip to anchor your jars.
  • Layer the fussy cut images in the same way, slightly overlapping them for a natural arrangement.

The green border frames the design and gives it a lively, modern twist while still keeping that cosy homemade theme.

Adding Dimension and Detail

To really bring this Preserves themed card to life:

  • Use Stampin’ Dimensionals behind selected jars and the honey bear.
  • Slightly overlap the images to create a continuous shelf display.
  • Add a few rhinestones for a subtle sparkle.

These small touches elevate the card from flat to fabulous without adding complexity.

Why Fussy Cutting is Worth It

Fussy cutting from Designer Series Paper is such a brilliant way to get detailed imagery without stamping and colouring. It’s cost-effective, beginner-friendly and allows you to mix and match elements from different sheets within the same pack.

The Homemade Sweetness DSP is especially perfect for this technique because the images are bold, colourful and full of personality.

Perfect for So Many Occasions

Although I’ve used a “Happy Birthday” sentiment, this preserves themed card would also work beautifully for:

  • Thank you cards
  • Housewarming gifts
  • Thinking of you cards
  • Handmade gift enclosures

Simply switch out the greeting and you have a completely different look.

Creating cards like this is a wonderful reminder that Designer Series Paper can be the star of the show. With a little fussy cutting and layering, you can achieve a detailed, eye-catching design with minimal supplies.

measurements

  • Granny Apple Green / Misty Moonlight Cardstock – A6 Card Base – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half.
  • Basic White Cardstock – 14.35cm X 10cm
  • Homemade Sweetness designer series paper (DSP) – 13.85cm X 9.5cm.

Thank You for Stopping By!

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Product List

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

Jar Shaped Card – How I Made it – Easy Tutorial.

Jar Shaped Card – How I Made it – Easy Tutorial. – Filled with Sweetness – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Jar Shaped Card – How I Made it – Easy Tutorial. – Filled with Sweetness – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you’re looking for a fun fold with plenty of charm, this Jar Shaped Card is such a sweet project to try! Using the beautiful Homemade Sweetness DSP and the Filled with Sweetness Stamp and Die Bundle, I created two bright and cheerful versions that are perfect for birthdays, thank you cards, or just to send a little love.

Today I’m sharing how I made it – and I promise, it’s easier than it looks!

The Design Inspiration

I absolutely adore the jam jar imagery in the Homemade Sweetness Designer Series Paper. The fruit prints and jar elements are ideal for creating something playful and eye-catching. Rather than making a standard rectangle card, I decided to let the dies do the talking and create a shaped card base.

The two colourways I chose were:

  • Misty Moonlight – rich, elegant and slightly rustic
  • Granny Apple Green – fresh, vibrant and full of energy

Both give a completely different feel, even though the layout is the same.

Jar Shaped Card - How I Made it - Easy Tutorial. - Filled with Sweetness - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Jar Shaped Card – How I Made it – Easy Tutorial. – Filled with Sweetness – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Creating the Jar-Shaped Base

To form the jar shape, I used the coordinating die from the Filled with Sweetness Bundle to cut the card front, ensuring the fold remained intact at the top. This creates a perfectly shaped card while still allowing it to open and close as normal.

For added detail, I white heat embossed the jar lines directly onto the background layer. This step really makes the jar shape stand out and gives a lovely glossy contrast against the coloured cardstock.

Adding Depth to the Lid

One of my favourite little details on this project is the lid.

After die cutting the lid piece, I lightly sponged it with matching ink to add depth and texture. This simple step makes such a difference! It stops the lid from looking flat and gives it a more realistic, dimensional feel.

To finish it off, I added a sweet ribbon bow across the top for that classic jam jar look.

Jar Shaped Card - How I Made it - Easy Tutorial. - Filled with Sweetness - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Jar Shaped Card – How I Made it – Easy Tutorial. – Filled with Sweetness – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Fussy Cut Details from the DSP

The jam jars and fruit elements were fussy cut directly from the Homemade Sweetness DSP. The designs in this paper are perfect for cutting out — no stamping required!

Layering these over the embossed jar background adds interest and makes each card feel full and layered without being bulky.

One version reads:

  • “You’re the Sweetest”

And the other:

  • “Love You Berry Much”

Both sentiments work beautifully with the playful fruit theme.

Misty Moonlight vs Granny Apple Green

Although the layout is identical, the two colour choices create very different looks:

  • Misty Moonlight feels slightly more classic and elegant.
  • Granny Apple Green brings a bright, cheerful and modern feel.

This just shows how changing your base colour can completely transform a design!

Why You’ll Love This Card Design

  • It’s a shaped card but still simple to create
  • The DSP does most of the decorative work
  • Minimal stamping required
  • Perfect for batch making
  • Ideal for multiple occasions

If you’ve never made a shaped card before, this is a brilliant one to start with.

Final Thoughts

I love how these turned out – they’re bright, happy and full of personality. The combination of white heat embossing, ink blending on the lid, and fussy cut DSP details really brings the jars to life.

Be sure to check out the video tutorial below where I walk you through the entire process step by step.

Thank You for Stopping By!

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Product List

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

How to Create a Double Twisted Easel Card

How to Create a Double Twisted Easel Card – Choose Happy – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

How to Create a Double Twisted Easel Card – Choose Happy – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you love creating interactive cards that truly wow the recipient, this Double Twisted Easel Card is a must-try! It folds flat for posting but opens into a beautifully dimensional display piece — and today’s version is packed with colour, charm and the sweetest Easter detail.

This design features the vibrant Homemade Sweetness DSP paired with the adorable images from the Choose Happy stamp set. I’ve created two colour variations — one in Misty Moonlight and one in Granny Apple Green — and both showcase a gorgeous pop-up rabbit in the centre of the card.

How to Create a Double Twisted Easel Card - Choose Happy - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
How to Create a Double Twisted Easel Card – Choose Happy – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

What Makes a Double Twisted Easel Card So Special?

The Double Twisted Easel Card is a fun fold that instantly adds drama and dimension. When opened, the two angled panels twist outward to form easels, creating height and interest. Decorative stoppers hold the panels in place so the card stands beautifully for display.

It’s one of those card designs that looks complicated but is surprisingly achievable once you’ve made one!

Featuring the Homemade Sweetness DSP

The Homemade Sweetness DSP is full of bright, fruity patterns — strawberries, blueberries, cherries and citrus slices — which bring such a cheerful and fresh feel to this project.

The triangular panels on the front of the card are the perfect way to highlight patterned paper. Because of the twisted design, you get to showcase multiple sections of DSP, making this fold ideal for papers you don’t want to hide!

The fruit design pairs beautifully with both colour variations and gives the card a playful, uplifting look.

Misty Moonlight Version – A Soft, Elegant Easter Feel

The first version uses Misty Moonlight for the base and the rear twisted panels. The deep blue floral pattern at the back adds contrast while keeping the design balanced and elegant.

When the card is opened, the little rabbit from the Choose Happy stamp set pops up in the centre with a “Happy Easter” greeting. The soft blue tones give this version a slightly more classic feel, perfect for sending thoughtful Easter wishes.

How to Create a Double Twisted Easel Card - Choose Happy - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
How to Create a Double Twisted Easel Card – Choose Happy – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Granny Apple Green Version – Fresh and Fun

The second version features Granny Apple Green as the base. This colour works beautifully with the fruit-themed DSP and adds a vibrant, springtime freshness.

A coordinating belly band wraps around the card front, finished with an oval focal piece featuring jam jars and sweet imagery from the Choose Happy stamp set. When opened, the same adorable rabbit pops up in the centre, creating that lovely surprise element.

This version feels bright, cheerful and full of energy — perfect for celebrating Easter or simply sharing a happy handmade moment.

The Pop-Up Centrepiece

The real showstopper of this Double Twisted Easel Card is the pop-up rabbit in the centre. Positioned perfectly between the two twisted panels, it becomes the focal point as soon as the card is opened.

Adding dimension here enhances the interactive element and really brings the design to life. It transforms the card from beautiful to unforgettable.

Why You Should Try This Fun Fold

  • Folds flat for posting
  • Stands beautifully for display
  • Showcases patterned paper perfectly
  • Creates a memorable “wow” moment
  • Ideal for Easter, birthdays or spring occasions

If you’ve never made a Double Twisted Easel Card before, this is your sign to give it a go! Once you understand the fold, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.

Measurements

  • Granny Apple Green / Misty Moonlight Cardstock – A6 Card Base – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half. Cut the front flap of the card base in half on the long side until the fold.
  • Basic White Cardstock – 14.35cm X 10cm X 1 piece
  • Homemade Sweetness designer series paper (DSP):
    • 9.5cm X 6.4cm X 2 pieces
    • 10cm X 1.5cm X 1 piece
  • Basic White Cardstock – 10cm X 6.9cm X 2 pieces

Final Thoughts

Combining the Homemade Sweetness DSP with the Choose Happy stamp set creates a joyful, spring-inspired project that’s full of personality. Whether you prefer the elegance of Misty Moonlight or the brightness of Granny Apple Green, this fold truly elevates your cardmaking.

Interactive cards like this are such a delight to give — and even more fun to create!

Thank You for Stopping By!

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Product List

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

Make this Cute Easter Basket With Me Today.

Make this Cute Easter Basket With Me Today. Choose Happy. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

Make this Cute Easter Basket With Me Today. Choose Happy. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

Easter crafting is one of my favourites, and today I’m sharing how to make these adorably cute Easter baskets that are perfect for holding chocolate treats, small gifts, or even table favours. They’re fun to make, easy to customise, and look absolutely lovely using patterned paper and simple punches.

Whether you’re crafting for Easter gifts, party favours, or just because you love cute 3D projects, this basket is a must-try!

A Sweet Easter Basket Design

These baskets are made using the Homemade Sweetness DSP, which gives them that classic, cosy feel while still looking fresh and cheerful. I love how the patterns work beautifully for spring and Easter projects.

To add a pop of colour, I created cardstock handles for each basket. One basket features Calypso Coral, while the other uses Strawberry Slush. Both colours coordinate perfectly with the patterned paper and help each basket feel unique while still matching as a set.

Make this Cute Easter Basket With Me Today. Choose Happy. Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln, UK.
Make this Cute Easter Basket With Me Today. Choose Happy. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

The Cutest Bunny Focal Point

The focal image on each basket is this sweet little rabbit from the Choose Happy stamp set. It’s simple, playful, and just right for Easter projects. I stamped the bunny and punched it out using circle punches, then layered it onto a coordinating cardstock circle to give it a little extra definition and help it stand out against the basket.

This is a great example of how you don’t need complicated dies to create a polished look—punches can be just as effective!

Make this Cute Easter Basket With Me Today. Choose Happy. Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln, UK.
Make this Cute Easter Basket With Me Today. Choose Happy. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

A Fun Way to Add Texture

Inside each basket, I added crinkled paper to hold the chocolate eggs. This is actually old copier paper that I ran through a crimper and then popped through a hand shredder. It’s a brilliant way to recycle paper and add texture without needing any specialist products.

Not only does it look great, but it also helps keep the treats snugly in place—practical and pretty!

Perfect for Gifts and Table Favours

These Easter baskets are ideal for:

  • Easter gifts for friends and family
  • Children’s Easter treats
  • Table favours for Easter lunch or parties
  • Craft fair or handmade gift ideas

They’re sturdy, reusable, and can be adapted for other occasions simply by changing the paper and sentiment.

Try It Yourself

This is such a fun project to make, and once you’ve created one, you’ll want to make lots more! You can easily mix and match DSP, colours, and stamped images to suit your own style or theme.

Measurements

  • Homemade Sweetness designer series paper (DSP) 6″ X 6″
    • Scored at 1 7/8″ & 4 1/8″ on 2 sides as shown below.
    • Scored at 5/8″, 1 1/4″, 4 3/4″, 5 3/8″, partially as shown below.
Make this Cute Easter Basket With Me Today. Choose Happy. Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln, UK.
Make this Cute Easter Basket With Me Today. Choose Happy. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

Thank You for Stopping By!

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Product List

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

How to Add Texture to a Card with Embellishments – Tutorial

How to Add Texture to a Card with Embellishments – Tutorial – Painterly Pears – Simply Said – Crafting With Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo

How to Add Texture to a Card with Embellishments – Tutorial – Painterly Pears – Simply Said – Crafting With Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo

Adding texture is one of my favourite ways to take a handmade card from “nice” to wow, and today’s card is a perfect example of how a few simple embellishments can completely change the look and feel of a design.

For this project, I’ve used the beautiful Painterly Pears Designer Series Paper, which already has a soft, artistic feel. By layering texture on top of that, the finished card feels much more tactile and luxurious—without being bulky or complicated to make.

Choosing the Right Card Base

The card base for this project is Thick Basic White, which is ideal when you’re adding extra layers and embellishments. It gives the card a sturdy foundation and ensures it holds its shape beautifully, even with added texture.

Using a strong card base also helps the decorative elements stand out, especially when paired with patterned paper like Painterly Pears.

How to Add Texture to a Card with Embellishments - Tutorial - Painterly Pears - Simply Said - Crafting With Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo
How to Add Texture to a Card with Embellishments – Tutorial – Painterly Pears – Simply Said – Crafting With Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo

Creating a Textured Focal Panel

The focal panel is where the texture really comes to life. I edged the panel using Fluffy Trim, which instantly adds softness and dimension. This type of trim is fantastic for breaking up patterned paper and drawing the eye towards the centre of the card.

Running the trim along the top and bottom of the focal panel frames the design and adds a cosy, almost fabric-like feel—perfect for cards that you want to feel special when held.

Adding “Bump” Texture with Embellishments

To add that final layer of interest, I used Pearls of Beauty pearls. These small embellishments are brilliant for creating what I like to call bump texture—just enough raised detail to catch the light without overpowering the design.

Placed carefully around the focal panel, the pearls balance the softness of the Fluffy Trim and add a subtle touch of elegance. This combination of soft and shiny textures works especially well with the painterly style of the DSP.

How to Add Texture to a Card with Embellishments - Tutorial - Painterly Pears - Simply Said - Crafting With Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo
How to Add Texture to a Card with Embellishments – Tutorial – Painterly Pears – Simply Said – Crafting With Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo

measurements

  • Thick Basic White Cardstock – A6 Card Base – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half.
  • Painterly Pears designers series paper (DSP) – 13.85cm X 9.5cm

Why Texture Matters in Cardmaking

Texture engages more than just the eyes—it invites people to touch and explore your card. By combining trims, embellishments, and layered papers, you can create depth and interest even when the design itself is quite simple.

This card layout is also very versatile. You can easily swap the sentiment to suit different occasions, or change the DSP while keeping the same textured elements for a completely new look.

Thank You for Stopping By!

I hope you enjoyed this papercrafting project and found it inspiring! Below, you’ll find a supply list linked to my online shop and a video tutorial to guide you step by step. You can also check out my Basic Craft Products, which include the essential tools I use regularly.

Product List

Join the Crafting Fun!
Stay connected and get more creative inspiration by following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. I also run a Facebook Group where we share projects, exchange ideas, and chat about all things crafty. I’d love for you to join and share your creations!

Online Card Club – Each month in my Facebook Group, we make three beautiful cards and a 3D project. It’s a fun and interactive way to craft together. Click here for all the details.

In-Person Crafting Classes – If you’re in North Lincoln, come craft with me in a friendly, hands-on session. Click here for upcoming dates and details.

Request a Craft Catalogue – Want a copy of the latest catalogue? Simply click the Contact Me button, and I’ll send one your way. And don’t forget—you can shop online 24/7 from the comfort of your home.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my YouTube channel—your feedback means the world to me.

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx