bag Archives – Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo

Barrel-Shaped Gift Bag. Learn How to Make This Today.

Barrel-Shaped Gift Bag. Learn How to Make This Today. – Everyday Essentials DSP – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

If you’re looking for a unique way to package a small gift, treat or party favour, this barrel-shaped gift bag is a fun project to try. It has a lovely curved top, a sturdy handle and a sliding inner box, making it both practical and impressive. Although it looks quite intricate, it’s surprisingly straightforward to make once you know the steps.

For today’s project I’ve created two different versions using the beautiful Everyday Essentials Designer Series Paper. Changing the cardstock and patterned paper completely transforms the finished look, making this a design you’ll reach for time and time again.

Barrel-Shaped Gift Bag. Learn How to Make This Today. - Everyday Essentials DSP - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - UK. — Barrel-Shaped Gift Bag. Learn How to Make This Today. – Everyday Essentials DSP – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

Two Colour Combinations

The first gift bag features Misty Moonlight cardstock paired with the yellow gingham design from the Everyday Essentials Designer Series Paper. This combination feels bright, cheerful and perfect for birthdays, thank you gifts or even picnic-themed treats.

The second version uses Bubble Bath cardstock with one of the floral patterns from the same paper pack. The soft pink tones give the bag an elegant, feminine feel, making it ideal for Mother’s Day, birthdays, wedding favours or a thoughtful handmade gift.

Both versions showcase just how versatile one pack of Designer Series Paper can be.

A Gift Bag with a Difference

What makes this project especially fun is the hidden sliding box inside. Rather than opening from the top like a traditional gift bag, the inner box simply slides out from one end, making it a lovely surprise for the recipient.

It’s the perfect size for:

Chocolates or sweets
Small handmade gifts
Jewellery
Gift cards
Bath treats
Tea bags or miniature beauty products

The sturdy handle also makes it easy to carry or display, giving it a polished, professional finish.

A Great Way to Show Off Your Designer Series Paper

Projects like this are a fantastic way to make the most of your patterned papers. By covering the curved panels and side pieces, the paper becomes the focal point of the design while the coordinating cardstock frames everything beautifully.

If you have a favourite Designer Series Paper that’s too pretty to keep hidden in your craft cupboard, this is a wonderful project to showcase it.

Mix and Match Your Colours

One of the best things about this design is how easily you can customise it.

Try using seasonal papers for Christmas, autumn or spring, or create themed gift bags for weddings, baby showers or party favours. You could even add ribbon, tags or die-cut embellishments to personalise each one for the recipient.

Once you’ve made one, you’ll quickly discover just how addictive they are!

Watch the Full Tutorial

In my video tutorial, I’ll guide you through every step of creating this barrel-shaped gift bag from start to finish. You’ll see exactly how to construct the curved outer shell, assemble the sliding box and attach the handle for a strong, professional finish.

Whether you’re an experienced papercrafter or trying 3D projects for the first time, you’ll be able to follow along and create your own beautiful gift bag.

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

Bubble Bath A4 Cardstock £14.00	Misty Moonlight A4 Cardstock £14.00
Everyday Essentials Mix & Match 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper £13.00	Simply Scored £35.00

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 Cute Bag with a Side Gusset. Easy Tutorial.

Make a Cute Bag with a Side Gusset. Easy Tutorial. – Playful Packaging – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! – Lincoln UK.

If you love creating pretty handmade packaging, then these sweet little bags are such a fun project to make! Today I’m sharing how to create a cute bag with a side gusset using the gorgeous Beautiful Ordinary Designer Series Paper and the Playful Packaging Dies.

These bags are perfect for small gifts, treats, table favours, craft fair packaging, or even happy mail for a crafty friend. The side gusset gives them extra room, making them both practical and stylish.

The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to put together once you know how!

Make a Cute Bag with a Side Gusset. Easy Tutorial. - Playful Packaging - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! - Lincoln UK. — Make a Cute Bag with a Side Gusset. Easy Tutorial. – Playful Packaging – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! – Lincoln UK.

Two Different Sizes, Same Cute Design

For today’s project, I created two different versions of the bag.

The larger bag uses Flirty Flamingo as the main colour and has a lovely bright and cheerful feel. I paired it with the Beautiful Ordinary DSP and added decorative die-cut details using the Playful Packaging Dies. The bold coral tones work beautifully with the patterned paper and give the project a fresh summery look.

The smaller version features Pool Party and has a softer, more delicate appearance. I love how versatile this design is — simply changing the size and colour palette creates a completely different feel.

Both bags feature layered patterned paper panels and decorative borders to add extra interest and texture. A few sparkly embellishments finish them off perfectly.

measurements

Large Bag

Flirty Flamingo Cardstock:
- 10″ X 6″ scored at 4″ & 6″ on the long side.
- 4 1/2″ X 3″ scored at 1/2″ on 3 sides X 2 pieces – Middle score line at 2″ until 2 1/2″ mark.
Beautiful Ordinary designer series paper (DSP):
- 5 3/4″ X 3 3/4″ X 2 pieces

Small Bag

Pool Party Cardstock :
- 9″ X 4″ scored at 3 1/2″ & 5 1/2″ on the long side.
- 4″ X 3″ scored at 1/2″ on 3 sides x 2 pieces.
Beautiful Ordinary DSP – 3 3/4″ X 3 1/4″ X 2 pieces.

Why Side Gusset Bags Are So Useful

One of the things I love most about side gusset bags is how roomy they are compared to standard flat gift bags. The gusset allows the bag to expand, making it ideal for:

Chocolates or sweets
Small handmade gifts
Mini craft supplies
Gift cards
Party favours
Tea lights or bath products

They also fold flat when not in use, which is really handy if you want to make several in advance.

Decorative Details with the Playful Packaging Dies

The Playful Packaging Dies are brilliant for adding those little finishing touches that make handmade packaging feel extra special.

For these bags, I used the dies to create the handles and decorative edging. The border details add a lovely professional finish while still keeping the bags fun and playful.

I also added a small tag to one of the bags for an extra personalised touch. Tags are a great way to customise packaging for birthdays, thank you gifts, or special occasions.

Perfect for Using Your Designer Series Paper

Projects like this are such a great way to show off beautiful patterned paper. Because the bags use several panels, you can really highlight different patterns and colour combinations.

The Beautiful Ordinary DSP works especially well because the patterns coordinate so nicely together. Mixing florals, dots, stripes, and geometric prints creates lots of visual interest without looking too busy.

If you’re like me and sometimes struggle to cut into your favourite papers, this is a wonderful project for finally using them!

Great for Craft Fairs and Gifts

These little bags would also be fantastic for craft fairs, customer gifts, party tables, or seasonal packaging. Once you’ve made one, it’s easy to adapt the design for different themes and occasions throughout the year.

Try changing the colours and papers for:

Christmas treats
Easter gifts
Wedding favours
Baby showers
Birthdays
Teacher gifts

The possibilities are endless.

Video Tutorial

I’ve also created a full video tutorial to guide you through the process step by step, so you can easily recreate these cute side gusset bags yourself.

Be sure to let me know in the comments which version is your favourite — the Flirty Flamingo or the Pool Party!

Thank You for Stopping By!

Product List

Flirty Flamingo A4 Cardstock £14.00	Pool Party A4 Card Stock £14.00	Pretty Peacock A4 Cardstock £14.00
Everyday Essentials Mix & Match 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper £13.00	Playful Packaging Bundle (English) £38.50	Pretty Peacock Classic Stampin’ Pad £8.50
Flirty Flamingo Classic Stampin' Pad £8.50	Baker's Twine Essentials Pack £11.25	Rhinestone Basic Jewels £5.75

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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!

Product List

Pumpkin Pie A4 Card Stock £14.00	Blackberry Bliss A4 Cardstock £14.00	Garden Poetry 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper £11.75
Encircled With Love Photopolymer Stamp Set (English) £19.00	2" (5.1 Cm) Circle Punch £24.00	1 7/8" (4.8 Cm) Circle Punch £24.00
Pumpkin Pie Classic Stampin' Pad £8.50	Blackberry Bliss Classic Stampin' Pad £8.50	Rhinestone Basic Jewels £5.75

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.

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.

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!

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.

Thank You for Stopping By!

Product List

Strawberry Slush A4 Cardstock £14.00	Calypso Coral A4 Card Stock £14.00	Homemade Sweetness 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper £11.75
1 7/8" (4.8 Cm) Circle Punch £24.00	2" (5.1 Cm) Circle Punch £24.00	Choose Happy Photopolymer Stamp Set (English) £20.00
Tuxedo Black Memento Ink Pad £7.50	Petal Pink Stampin' Blends Combo Pack £10.25	Soft Sea Foam Stampin' Blends Combo Pack £10.25

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.

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 Self Closing Gift Bag.

How to Make this Self Closing Gift Bag.- Brushed with Beauty – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you love quick and clever papercraft projects, you’re going to adore today’s self-closure gift bag. This pretty 3D project looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make, and the best part is that it closes all by itself thanks to the clever scoring – no magnets, Velcro, or ribbon closures required!

This style of gift bag is perfect for small treats, party favours, or handmade gifts, and it’s ideal if you want something that feels special without being overly complicated.

A Clever Self-Closing Design

The magic of this gift bag lies in the way it’s scored. Once folded, the structure naturally tucks in on itself, keeping the contents secure without needing any additional closure. It’s one of those designs that makes you smile when you see it in action – practical, tidy, and very satisfying!

Because there’s no extra closure to add, this project also comes together quickly, making it a great option if you need several bags for birthdays, thank you gifts, or craft fairs.

How to Make this Self Closing Gift Bag.- Brushed with Beauty - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK. — How to Make this Self Closing Gift Bag.- Brushed with Beauty – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Beautiful Brushed with Beauty Designer Series Paper

I’ve used the Brushed with Beauty Designer Series Paper, which brings a soft, elegant floral look to the project. The patterns work beautifully with the angled panels of the bag and give it a polished, professional finish.

This DSP is perfect for gift packaging as it adds interest without overwhelming the design, allowing the structure of the bag to really shine.

Coordinating Cardstock and Colour Palette

The cardstock colours for this project are Mossy Meadow and Darling Duckling, a gorgeous combination that feels fresh, natural, and uplifting. The deeper green grounds the design, while the soft yellow adds warmth and a cheerful pop of colour.

Finished with coordinating ribbon tied at the top, the bag feels complete and gift-ready.

Simple but Effective Sentiment

For the sentiment, I’ve used the Encircled with Love stamp set, stamped and punched using circle punches for a clean and classic look. The circular sentiment sits perfectly on the front of the bag and adds just the right finishing touch without distracting from the patterned paper.

This stamp set is incredibly versatile and works beautifully on both cards and 3D projects like this one.

Measurements

Mossy Meadow / Darling Duckling Cardstock – 8 1/2″ X 6 1/2″ Scored as follows:
- On the shorter side at 1/2″ and 4 1/2″
- On the longer side at 2″ (partway only up to the 2″ scoreline), 4″, 6″ (partway only up to the 2″scoreline) & 8″.
Brushed with Beauty designer series paper (DSP) – 3 3/4″ X 3 3/4″ X 2 pieces.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the things I love most about this self closing gift bag is how adaptable it is. By simply changing the DSP, sentiment, or colour scheme, you can easily tailor it for birthdays, thank you gifts, seasonal treats, or even table favours.

It’s a fantastic project to keep in your crafting toolkit for when you need something quick, pretty, and practical.

Thank You for Stopping By!

Product List

Mossy Meadow A4 Cardstock £14.00	Darling Duckling A4 Cardstock £14.00	Brushed With Beauty 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper £11.75	2" (5.1 Cm) Circle Punch £24.00	1 7/8" (4.8 Cm) Circle Punch £24.00
Encircled With Love Photopolymer Stamp Set (English) £19.00	Tuxedo Black Memento Ink Pad £7.50	Darling Duckling Stampin’ Blends Combo Pack £10.25	Darling Duckling 3/8" (1 Cm) Faux Linen Ribbon £7.50	Moody Palette Glossy Dots £7.50

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.

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 Sweet Valentine Bag

Make a Sweet Valentine Bag. Bee Mine. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to create something thoughtful, handmade, and filled with a little treat – and this sweet Valentine bag ticks all the boxes! It’s quick to make, requires no cutting at all, and is ideal for holding chocolates or small gifts for someone special.

Whether you’re crafting for a partner, friend, child, or even as a party favour, this is a fun and easy project that looks far more complicated than it actually is.

Make a Sweet Valentine Bag. Bee Mine. Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK. — Make a Sweet Valentine Bag. Bee Mine. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

A No-Cut Bag That’s Perfect for Gifting

One of the things I love most about this project is just how simple it is to put together. With no cutting required, this bag comes together in minutes, making it ideal for batch crafting when you need several gifts in a hurry.

The structure is sturdy enough to hold chocolates and small treats, while still looking elegant and polished. It’s a great option if you’re short on time but still want to give something handmade.

Bee Valentine Stamp Set – Sweet and Sentimental

The sentiment on the front of the bag comes from the Bee Valentine stamp set. It’s a lovely choice for Valentine projects, with sentiments that feel warm, cheerful, and heartfelt without being overly fussy.

Stamped onto a simple label, the greeting becomes the perfect focal point and keeps the overall design clean and uncluttered.

Made with Love Designer Series Paper

The Made with Love DSP really does live up to its name. The heart patterns and bold Valentine colours instantly set the tone and remove the need for extra embellishment.

Using patterned paper like this is a great way to make a project stand out while still keeping it quick and easy. The paper does most of the work for you!

measurements

Made with Love designer series paper (DSP) – 9 1/2″ X 6″ scored:
- On the 9 1/2″ side at 4″ from either end
- On the 6″ side at 1 1/2″ from either end.

Perfect for Chocolates and Small Treats

This bag is just the right size for holding chocolates or other small goodies, making it ideal for:

Valentine’s Day gifts
Classroom or party favours
Handmade gifts for friends and family

It’s also a brilliant project for beginners or anyone who enjoys quick, satisfying makes.

Thank You for Stopping By!

Product List

Real Red A4 Card Stock £14.00	Made With Love 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper £11.75	Labeled With Love Punch £24.00	Endless Love Dies £27.00
Bee Builder Punch £25.00	Bee My Valentine Photopolymer Stamp Set (English) £20.00	Real Red Classic Stampin' Pad £8.50

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.

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 a Christmas Cracker Box.

How to Make a Christmas Cracker Box. – Sign Design – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Today, I’m sharing a fun and festive project that’s perfect for the holiday season—these adorable Christmas Cracker Boxes! They’re a wonderful way to package small gifts, treats, or even table favours, and they add a touch of handmade charm to any Christmas setting.

The first cracker box is created using Thick Basic White Cardstock and decorated with the Christmas Tags and More Designer Series Paper (DSP). I’ve added a cheerful black-and-white gingham bow to tie everything together.

The second cracker features a Real Red base and the Traditions of Christmas DSP, giving it that classic festive look. I finished it off with a soft, sheer ribbon to add a delicate touch.

Finishing Touches

For a bit of extra flair, I tucked coordinating tissue paper into the tops of each cracker. This not only adds colour and height but also gives the boxes that polished, professional look.

The sentiment on each box is from the Sign Design stamp set, which has a matching punch, making it quick and easy to create perfectly cut labels.

The ribbon I used is a retired style, but don’t worry—there are plenty of lovely ribbons available in my online shop that would work beautifully for this project.

Measurements

Thick Basic White / Real Red Cardstock – 10 1/2″ X 7 3/4″, scored as follows:
- Long Side – 2 1/2″, 5″, 7 1/2″, & 10″.
- Short Side – 2 1/2″, 5″, 5 1/2″ & 6″.
Christmas Tags and More / Traditions of Christmas DSP – 2 1/4″ X 2 1/4″ X 4 pieces.

These cracker boxes are quick to make, and you can easily customise them to match your festive décor or colour scheme. They’re ideal for Christmas parties, stocking fillers, or simply adding a handmade touch to your holiday table.

Thank You for Stopping By!

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.

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

Revisiting the Curvy Box Bag – Beautiful Christmas Bag

Revisiting the Curvy Box Bag – Beautiful Christmas Bag – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! – Lincoln UK

I’m so excited to share today’s project – a festive revisit of the Curvy Box Bag, this time dressed up for Christmas! These bags are such a lovely way to present small gifts or treats during the festive season, and with just a little DSP and cardstock, you can create something both practical and beautiful.

Using Elegant Pines Snowflake DSP

For the base of the bag, I created a sturdy box from cardstock and then wrapped Elegant Pines Snowflake DSP around it to achieve that smooth, curved shape. This gives the bag a polished look while allowing the patterned paper to really shine.

To give the design more structure and detail, I added extra strips of cardstock at the top and bottom edges. This not only strengthens the bag but also frames the DSP beautifully, making the design look even more finished.

Revisiting the Curvy Box Bag - Beautiful Christmas Bag - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! - Lincoln UK — Revisiting the Curvy Box Bag – Beautiful Christmas Bag – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! – Lincoln UK

Fussy Cutting the Birds

The highlight of these bags has to be the gorgeous birds, which I fussy cut from the Nests of Winter DSP. They add a pop of character and make each bag feel truly unique. Whether it’s the sweet robin or the pair of cardinals, these images bring a warm and festive touch.

Sentiments that Shine

To complete the design, I used sentiments from the Greetings for You Ephemera Pack. They tuck in perfectly with the birds and branches, adding just the right festive message—whether it’s “Merry Christmas” or “Merry & Bright.”

measurements

Cherry Cobbler Cardstock:
- 5″ x 4″ scored at 1″ on all sides.
- 11″ X 1/2″ X 3 strips
Elegant Pines Snowflake designer series paper (DSP) – 11″ x 4″

Perfect for Gifting

These bags are not only fun to make but also perfect for filling with chocolates, small gifts, or even a little handmade treat. They’re sure to bring a smile to anyone who receives them this Christmas.

Thank You for Stopping By!

Product List

Elegant Pine Snowflakes 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper £11.75	Nests Of Winter 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper £11.75	Cherry Cobbler A4 Card Stock £10.75
Traditional Labels Dies £27.00	Greetings For You Mix & Match Ephemera Pack (English) £8.00	Simply Scored £35.00

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.

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 Idea for a Goodie Bag. How to Create a Mini Handbag.

Perfect Idea for a Goodie Bag. How to Create a Mini Handbag. – Encircled in Love – Florals in Bloom – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up Demo

If you’re looking for a charming way to package small treats, party favours, or a thoughtful little gift, this mini handbag is the perfect solution! Today’s project is not only adorable but also easy to make—and it’s guaranteed to impress.

I created this stylish mini handbag using the Florals in Bloom Paper paired with the Encircled in Love stamp set. The combination of bright colours and playful design makes it ideal for all sorts of occasions—think birthdays, baby showers, thank-you gifts, or even as a sweet table decoration.

Perfect Idea for a Goodie Bag. How to Create a Mini Handbag. - Encircled in Love - Florals in Bloom - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up Demo — Perfect Idea for a Goodie Bag. How to Create a Mini Handbag. – Encircled in Love – Florals in Bloom – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up Demo

A Fun and Functional Design

This little handbag isn’t just cute—it’s also practical! It opens neatly to hold small goodies like chocolates, jewellery, tea bags, or even a tiny note. The sturdy handle adds a realistic touch, making it look just like a real handbag, and the front flap tucks in securely to keep the contents safe.

Easy Two-Tone Colour Coordination

I chose a bold contrast between the patterned paper and the solid colour cardstock to make the shape really pop. The tag on the front, stamped with “A Little Something for You,” ties everything together and adds a personal touch.

Whether you’re creating favours for an event or simply want to brighten someone’s day, this mini handbag is a great way to show you care.

measurements

Summer Splash / Petunia Pop Cardstock:
- 9 1/2″ X 3 3/4″ scored on the long side at 2″, 3″, 5 1/2″, 7″.
- 3″ X 2″ score on 3 sides at 1/2″ X 2 pieces
- 1 3/4″ X 3/8″ scored on the longer side at 3/8″ and 3/4″.
Florals in Bloom designer series paper (DSP):
- 3 3/4″ X 2 1/2″
- 5 3/4″ X 3 3/4″

Great for All Skill Levels

This project is perfect for beginner and experienced crafters alike. It doesn’t require complicated techniques, just some cutting, folding, and gluing—and the result is absolutely delightful.

You can easily switch up the paper and stamp set to suit any theme or season, making this a very versatile design to keep in your crafty toolbox.

Product List

Summer Splash A4 Cardstock £14.00	Petunia Pop A4 Cardstock £14.00	Florals In Bloom 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper & Sticker Sheet (English) £16.00	Stylish Shapes Dies £28.00
Encircled With Love Photopolymer Stamp Set (English) £19.00	2" (5.1 Cm) Circle Punch £22.00	1-3/4" (4.4 Cm) Circle Punch £22.00	Summer Splash Classic Stampin Pad £8.50
Petunia Pop Classic Stampin Pad £8.50	Party Dots £7.50

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.

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 Suitcase Style Gift Box

How to Create a Suitcase Style Gift Box – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

These adorable suitcase-style gift boxes are perfect for gifting small treats or keepsakes. They’re easier to make than you might think! I designed these boxes to open like a pizza box, which gives them both charm and functionality.

I used two stunning Designer Series Papers for these boxes: the warm, rustic look of the Take to the Sky DSP for the brown-toned suitcase, and the soft, vintage feel of Country Lace DSP for the blue one. These papers give the boxes a unique character—one earthy and adventurous, the other elegant and sweet.

Details That Make a Difference

To give the boxes a polished, vintage-travel feel, I created corner details using Crumb Cake cardstock punched with a 1″ circle punch. Each circle was cut into quarters and adhered to the corners. This simple detail gives a lovely faux-leather trim look that adds dimension and charm.

The top of each suitcase is decorated with ephemera die cuts from the Fully Flowing and Something to Say ephemera packs. One features a “Good Luck” sentiment in green, while the other shares a cheerful “So Happy for You” message beneath a beautiful floral piece.

These little boxes would be perfect for travel-themed party favours, graduation gifts, or just as a unique way to say “thinking of you.”

measurements

Early Expresso / Basic Beige Cardstock – 11 1/2″ X 8″ scored at 1 1/2″ on all sides. On the 11 1/2″ side, add two extra score lines at 5″ and 6 1/2″.
Take to the Sky / Country Lace designers paper (DSP):
- 4 3/4″ X 3 1/4″ X 2 pieces
- 4 3/4″ X 1 1/4″ X 2 pieces
- 3 1/4″ X 1 1/4″ X 2 pieces

Want to Make These Too?

Add your own creative twist by switching up the papers, colours, and sentiments. These boxes are a fantastic way to use up scraps and experiment with layers and embellishments.

Thank You for Stopping By!

Product List

Early Espresso A4 Card Stock £10.75	Basic Beige A4 Cardstock £14.00	Take To The Sky 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper £11.75
Country Lace 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper £11.75	Fully Flowering Mix & Match Ephemera Pack £7.50	Saying Something Mix & Match Ephemera Pack (English) £7.50

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.

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

Basic White A4 Thick Cardstock [159230]	Real Red A4 Card Stock [106578]	Traditions Of Christmas 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Specialty Designer Series Paper [165853]	Christmas Tags & More 6" X 6" (15.2 X 15.2 Cm) Mix & Match Specialty Designer Series Paper [165907]
Sign Design Bundle (English) [166057]	Real Red Classic Stampin' Pad [147084]	Garden Green Classic Stampin' Pad [147089]

Two Colour Combinations

A Gift Bag with a Difference

A Great Way to Show Off Your Designer Series Paper

Mix and Match Your Colours

Watch the Full Tutorial

Like this:

Two Different Sizes, Same Cute Design

measurements

Large Bag

Small Bag

Why Side Gusset Bags Are So Useful

Decorative Details with the Playful Packaging Dies

Perfect for Using Your Designer Series Paper

Great for Craft Fairs and Gifts

Video Tutorial

Like this:

A Beautiful Designer Paper Choice

Decorative Sentiment Feature

Why You’ll Love This Fold Flat Box

Perfect for So Many Occasions

Measurements

Like this:

A Sweet Easter Basket Design

The Cutest Bunny Focal Point

A Fun Way to Add Texture

Perfect for Gifts and Table Favours

Try It Yourself

Measurements

Like this:

A Clever Self-Closing Design

Beautiful Brushed with Beauty Designer Series Paper

Coordinating Cardstock and Colour Palette

Simple but Effective Sentiment

Measurements

Perfect for Any Occasion

Like this:

A No-Cut Bag That’s Perfect for Gifting

Bee Valentine Stamp Set – Sweet and Sentimental

Made with Love Designer Series Paper

measurements

Perfect for Chocolates and Small Treats

Like this:

Finishing Touches

Measurements

Like this:

Using Elegant Pines Snowflake DSP

Fussy Cutting the Birds

Sentiments that Shine

measurements

Perfect for Gifting

Like this:

A Fun and Functional Design

Easy Two-Tone Colour Coordination

measurements

Great for All Skill Levels

Like this:

Details That Make a Difference

measurements

Want to Make These Too?

Like this: