Category: Birthday

Using Watercolour Pencils Without the Water. Easy Tutorial.

Using Watercolour Pencils Without the Water. Easy Tutorial. – Artisan Sketched Garden – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

Using Watercolour Pencils Without the Water. Easy Tutorial. – Artisan Sketched Garden – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

Have you ever reached for your Watercolour Pencils but didn’t want the extra step of using water? The good news is that you don’t have to! Today’s card shows how beautiful these pencils can look when used dry, creating soft, layered colour with very little effort.

This project also features a simple variation of the spotlighting technique. Instead of colouring the entire floral pattern, I’ve focused on just one section of the gorgeous Artisan Sketched Garden Designer Series Paper. The result is a clean, elegant card where the coloured flowers become the star of the design.

A Different Way to Use Watercolour Pencils

Many crafters automatically think of Watercolour Pencils as something that needs to be blended with a Water Painter. While that technique creates beautiful results, they are equally effective when used on their own.

For these cards, I used both Stampin’ Up! Watercolour Pencils Assortment 1 and Assortment 2, blending the colours simply by layering them.

Rather than pressing firmly, I built the colour gradually using light pressure. This allows the pencil pigments to blend naturally, producing a soft, almost velvety finish without damaging the paper.

If you’re new to Watercolour Pencils, this is a fantastic technique to try because it requires no special tools and is very forgiving.

Using Watercolour Pencils Without the Water. Easy Tutorial. - Artisan Sketched Garden - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - UK.
Using Watercolour Pencils Without the Water. Easy Tutorial. – Artisan Sketched Garden – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

Spotlighting with Designer Series Paper

The spotlighting technique is often created by stamping an image twice and colouring one section before layering it back over the original.

For this version, I’ve used the beautiful floral print from the Artisan Sketched Garden Designer Series Paper instead. By colouring only the central flower cluster, your eye is immediately drawn to the focal point while the surrounding black-and-white design remains beautifully understated.

It’s an easy way to achieve maximum impact with minimal colouring.

Layering Colour for a Smooth Finish

One of the biggest secrets to successful pencil colouring is patience.

Instead of trying to achieve full colour in one pass, I gradually layered the colour, allowing each light layer to build upon the previous one.

This technique offers several benefits:

  • Smoother colour transitions.
  • Better blending between shades.
  • More control over highlights and shadows.
  • Less risk of damaging the cardstock by pressing too hard.

The blue version uses cool shades to create a calming design, while the pink version has a completely different feel despite using exactly the same layout.

Changing only the colour palette gives you two cards that look unique while using the same supplies.

Using Watercolour Pencils Without the Water. Easy Tutorial. - Artisan Sketched Garden - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - UK.
Using Watercolour Pencils Without the Water. Easy Tutorial. – Artisan Sketched Garden – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

Simple Details Make the Difference

The rest of the design has been kept clean and elegant to allow the colouring to shine.

The embossed white background adds subtle texture without competing with the focal image, while the narrow strips of gold foil frame the spotlighted panel beautifully and introduce just the right amount of sparkle.

Finishing the card with a bold die-cut sentiment creates a lovely contrast against the soft floral colouring.

Why You’ll Love This Technique

This is a wonderful technique if:

  • You enjoy relaxing colouring.
  • You don’t want the mess of watercolouring.
  • You’d like to get more use from your Watercolour Pencils.
  • You want to create elegant cards without lots of layers.
  • You’re looking for a beginner-friendly colouring technique.

Sometimes the simplest techniques produce the most striking results, and this card is a perfect example.

If you’ve been keeping your Watercolour Pencils tucked away because you weren’t confident using them with water, I hope this tutorial inspires you to dust them off and give dry colouring a try. You may be surprised just how versatile they are!

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

Birthday Easel Card – Artisan Sketched Garden – Easy Tutorial

Birthday Easel Card – Artisan Sketched Garden – Easy Tutorial – Words and Wishes – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin ‘Up! Demo – UK.

Birthday Easel Card – Artisan Sketched Garden – Easy Tutorial – Words and Wishes – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin ‘Up! Demo – UK.

If you’re looking for a fun fold card that’s easy to make but looks a little bit different, this Birthday Easel Card is the perfect project. Easel cards are always a favourite because they display beautifully when opened, yet fold flat to fit inside a standard envelope.

For today’s project, I’ve created two bright and cheerful birthday cards using the gorgeous Artisan Sketched Garden Designer Series Paper from Stampin’ Up! One card features the vibrant Azure Afternoon cardstock, while the second uses the beautiful Strawberry Slush. Both designs are quick to recreate and are ideal for birthdays all year round.

Birthday Easel Card - Artisan Sketched Garden - Easy Tutorial - Words and Wishes - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin 'Up! Demo - UK.
Birthday Easel Card – Artisan Sketched Garden – Easy Tutorial – Words and Wishes – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin ‘Up! Demo – UK.

A Simple Easel Card with a Hidden Surprise

The beauty of this design is its simplicity. The easel mechanism is easy to assemble, making it suitable for beginners while still being enjoyable for more experienced papercrafters.

Instead of using a traditional raised embellishment as the easel stopper, this card features a clever little flap. Not only does it support the easel when the card is displayed, but it also opens to reveal a hidden space that’s perfect for writing a secret message, adding a gift card or including an extra surprise for the recipient. It’s a lovely interactive feature that makes the card feel even more special.

Artisan Sketched Garden Designer Series Paper

The striking black and white floral patterns from the Artisan Sketched Garden Designer Series Paper really allow the colourful cardstock to shine. The bold contrast creates a modern look while still keeping the card elegant and versatile.

Using the same paper with two different cardstock colours shows just how easily you can achieve completely different looks from one pack of Designer Series Paper. Whether you prefer the fresh feel of Azure Afternoon or the vibrant pop of Strawberry Slush, both versions are equally eye-catching.

Birthday Easel Card - Artisan Sketched Garden - Easy Tutorial - Words and Wishes - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin 'Up! Demo - UK.
Birthday Easel Card – Artisan Sketched Garden – Easy Tutorial – Words and Wishes – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin ‘Up! Demo – UK.

Beautiful Layered Birthday Sentiments

The large layered birthday greetings were created using the Words and Wishes Dies. These oversized die-cut sentiments become the main focal point of the card, adding dimension without making the design feel overly complicated.

Layering the die cuts in coordinating colours helps the sentiment stand out beautifully against the bold floral background.

Finishing Touches

To complete each design, I’ve added embellishments from the Mix and Match Ephemera Packs. These ready-made pieces are a fantastic way to finish a card quickly while adding extra interest and colour.

The floral image complements the Azure Afternoon version perfectly, while the sweet cupcake embellishment adds a fun birthday touch to the Strawberry Slush card.

Measurements

  • Azure Afternoon / Strawberry Slush Cardstock:
    • A6 Card Base – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half.
    • 14.85cm X 10.5cm X 1 piece.
    • 15cm X 5cm scored at 7.5cm
  • Basic White Cardstock:
    • 14.35cm X 10cm X 2 pieces.
    • 4.5cm X 7cm X 1 piece
  • Artisan Sketched Designer Series Paper (DSP):
    • 13.85cm X 9.5cm
    • 4.5cm X 7cm.

Why You’ll Love This Card

This Birthday Easel Card is a wonderful project because it:

  • Is easy to make, even if you’ve never made an easel card before.
  • Folds flat for posting.
  • Displays beautifully when opened.
  • Includes a hidden message flap for an extra surprise.
  • Makes great use of Designer Series Paper.
  • Can easily be adapted for different occasions by changing the sentiment and embellishments.

It’s one of those fun fold cards that looks far more complicated than it really is, making it perfect for impressing family and friends without spending hours crafting.

Watch the Full Video Tutorial

If you’d like to make this Birthday Easel Card yourself, be sure to watch the step-by-step video tutorial below. I’ll guide you through the entire process so you can confidently recreate this design using your favourite papers and colours.

Whether you choose Azure Afternoon, Strawberry Slush, or another favourite Stampin’ Up! colour combination, I’m sure you’ll enjoy making this versatile easel card.

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

Stop Press!! Stampin’ Up! Has a New Foiling System.

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!
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

Stop Press!! Stampin’ Up! Has a New Foiling System – Garden Silhouette – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you love a little bit of shine on your handmade cards, then I have some exciting news for you!

Stampin’ Up! has a brand-new foiling system, and I couldn’t wait to have a play. These are the first cards I’ve made using the new Stampin’ Up! foiling dies and foils, and I have to say, I am rather impressed with the results.

The best bit? You don’t necessarily need to buy the new Stampin’ Up! foiling machine to get started.

I don’t have the new Stampin’ Up! foiling machine myself, so for these cards I used a different foiling system that I already had. The new Stampin’ Up! foiling dies can be used with other compatible foiling systems, which makes them a really versatile addition to your craft room.

My First Cards Using the Stampin’ Up! Foiling Dies

For my first attempt, I wanted to keep the cards fairly simple so that the beautiful foiling could really take centre stage.

I used the Garden Silhouette Hot Foil Dies to create the gorgeous floral backgrounds. The gold foil against the white cardstock gives the cards a lovely elegant look, and I really like how much impact you can get from such a simple technique.

I then added strips of patterned paper across each card. The bright colours and polka dot patterns provide a lovely contrast to the delicate gold floral background.

For the greetings, I used the Classic Greetings Hot Foil Dies, creating beautiful foiled sentiments for the front of the cards.

I think the combination of the shiny foil, bright colours and simple layouts works really well.

Stop Press!! Stampin' Up! Has a New Foiling System - Garden Silhouette - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Stop Press!! Stampin’ Up! Has a New Foiling System – Garden Silhouette – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

What Exactly Is Hot Foiling?

If you’ve never tried hot foiling before, you might be wondering what all the excitement is about.

Hot foiling allows you to add a beautiful metallic, shiny finish to your paper projects. Instead of stamping an image with ink, you use foil and specially designed hot foil dies to transfer the foil onto your cardstock.

The result is a crisp, metallic design that catches the light beautifully.

And honestly, photographs don’t quite do it justice!

You Don’t Need the Stampin’ Up! Foiling Machine

This is something I was particularly interested in when I started experimenting with the new foiling dies.

Although Stampin’ Up! has introduced its own foiling system, the new foiling dies aren’t limited to use with the Stampin’ Up! machine.

As I mentioned, I don’t have the new Stampin’ Up! foiling machine, so I used another compatible foiling system for these cards.

There is, however, one important thing to be aware of.

These are hot foil dies, so they cannot be used with a toner foiling system.

You need a proper hot foiling system that uses heat to transfer the foil.

Stop Press!! Stampin' Up! Has a New Foiling System - Garden Silhouette - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Stop Press!! Stampin’ Up! Has a New Foiling System – Garden Silhouette – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

You Will Need a Die-Cutting Machine

Another important point is that you will need a die-cutting machine to use the foiling system.

Stampin’ Up!’s new foiling system has been designed to work exclusively with the Stampin’ Up! Embossing and Die Cutting Machine.

If you’re using another foiling system, you’ll need to check that your particular machine is compatible with hot foil dies before getting started.

So, if you already have a suitable hot foiling system and a die-cutting machine, you may be able to start experimenting with the new Stampin’ Up! foiling dies without investing in another machine.

Garden Silhouette Hot Foil Dies

The Garden Silhouette Hot Foil Dies are what I’ve used to create the beautiful floral backgrounds on these cards.

I love how the design fills the cardstock without being too heavy. The floral images are delicate enough to create an elegant background but have enough detail to make a real statement.

I can already see lots of possibilities for these dies.

You could use the whole design to create a background like I have done here, or use smaller sections of a design on individual card elements. The metallic finish also means you don’t need to add lots of embellishments – the foiling does much of the work for you!

Classic Greetings Hot Foil Dies

The Classic Greetings Hot Foil Dies are another lovely addition to the collection.

I particularly like using foiled sentiments because they instantly make a card feel a little bit more special.

For these cards, I’ve used greetings such as Happy Birthday and Celebrate, but I think these would be useful for so many different occasions.

The foiled greetings also work beautifully with the colourful patterned paper. The contrast between the bright backgrounds and the metallic lettering makes the sentiments really stand out.

Keeping the Cards Simple

One of the things I wanted to demonstrate with these first cards is that you don’t need a complicated card design to make the most of hot foiling.

I’ve kept the basic layouts very simple.

The foiled floral background provides the main feature, then I’ve added a strip of patterned paper across the middle of the card. The foiled sentiment sits on top, creating a clear focal point.

Sometimes simple really is best!

I also love that the two cards look quite different even though I’ve used the same basic idea. By changing the colour and patterned paper, you can create completely different looks.

Is Hot Foiling Worth Trying?

After making these cards, I’d definitely say yes!

If you love adding a touch of luxury to your handmade cards, hot foiling is a technique worth experimenting with.

The metallic finish is beautiful, and the new Stampin’ Up! foiling dies make it possible to incorporate foiled backgrounds and greetings into your card designs in a really creative way.

I’m only just getting started with mine, so I have a feeling you’ll be seeing quite a bit more hot foiling around here!

A Few Things to Remember

Before you rush off to buy the new foiling dies, here are the important points to remember:

  • The new Stampin’ Up! foiling dies are hot foil dies.
  • You need foil specifically designed for hot foiling.
  • They cannot be used with a toner foiling system.
  • You need a die-cutting machine as part of the foiling process.
  • Stampin’ Up!’s new foiling system is designed to work exclusively with the Stampin’ Up! Embossing and Die Cutting Machine.
  • If you already own another compatible hot foiling system, you may be able to use the Stampin’ Up! foiling dies with it.

What Do You Think?

I’m really pleased with my first attempts at using the Stampin’ Up! foiling dies, and I think these cards have shown just how much impact a little bit of metallic foil can have.

The Garden Silhouette Hot Foil Dies and Classic Greetings Hot Foil Dies have certainly made a good first impression!

Now that I’ve had a chance to experiment, I’m looking forward to trying different colours of foil, different card designs and, of course, plenty more greetings.

Have you tried hot foiling before? Or perhaps you’ve been tempted by the new Stampin’ Up! foiling system but weren’t sure whether you needed the Stampin’ Up! machine?

I’d love to know what you think, so leave me a comment below and let me know.

Want to See How I Made These Cards?

Don’t forget to check out my video tutorial, where I’ll show you the foiling process and how I created these cards. If you’ve never tried hot foiling before, hopefully it will give you the confidence to have a go!

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

Sweet Bugs – Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card. Easy Tutorial.

Sweet Bugs – Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card. Easy Tutorial. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Sweet Bugs – Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card. Easy Tutorial. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you’re looking for a fun fold card that looks impressive but is surprisingly straightforward to make, then this Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card is the perfect project! It combines two popular fancy folds into one interactive design, creating a card that’s full of movement and plenty of space for decorating.

For today’s project I’ve used the adorable Sweet Bugs stamp set and coordinating dies, paired with two bright and cheerful colour combinations. One card features Real Red cardstock, while the other uses Granny Apple Green, giving each version its own unique personality.

A Fun Fold That Wows

One of the things I love most about this card is the way it unfolds. The combination of the gatefold and double Z-fold creates an interactive design that keeps revealing more as it’s opened.

Although it looks quite detailed, it’s actually much easier to make than it first appears. Once you’ve created the base, you can have lots of fun adding your favourite papers, stamps and embellishments to make it your own.

This is a fantastic fold for birthdays, celebrations or simply sending a cheerful handmade card to brighten someone’s day.

Sweet Bugs - Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card. Easy Tutorial. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Sweet Bugs – Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card. Easy Tutorial. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Sweet Bugs Steal the Show

The Sweet Bugs stamp set is full of charming little characters that instantly make you smile. I used the caterpillar, marching ants, flowers and birthday presents to create a playful garden scene across the card.

The coordinating dies make cutting out all of the stamped images quick and easy, allowing you to build up dimension throughout the design.

The ants marching across the front panel add a lovely sense of movement, while the caterpillar peeking from behind the centre section creates a fun surprise when the card is opened.

Colouring with Stampin’ Blends

All of the stamped images were coloured using Stampin’ Blends Alcohol Markers, which give beautifully smooth colour and make the images really stand out.

The vibrant flowers, cheerful presents and cute insects are all brought to life with simple colouring, proving that you don’t need complicated techniques to achieve a professional-looking finish.

Stampin’ Blends are perfect for projects like this because they blend effortlessly, making even beginner colouring look polished.

Sweet Bugs - Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card. Easy Tutorial. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Sweet Bugs – Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card. Easy Tutorial. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Two Different Looks

To show just how versatile this design can be, I created two different versions.

The Real Red card has a bright, bold and celebratory feel. Paired with the spotted designer paper, it creates a fun birthday card that’s full of energy.

The Granny Apple Green version has a fresher, garden-inspired look. Combined with the floral patterned paper, it gives the same layout a completely different feel while still showcasing the Sweet Bugs images beautifully.

Changing just the cardstock and patterned paper is an easy way to create multiple cards from the same layout without them looking identical.

Measurements

  • Granny Apple Green / Real Red Cardstock :
    • A6 Cardbase – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half. X 2 pieces.
    • 29.7cm X 3cm X 2 pieces
  • Basic White Cardstock:
    • 14.35cm X 10cm X 1 piece
    • 10cm X 6.9cm X 4 pieces
    • 14.35cm X 2.5cm X 2 pieces
    • 6.9cm X 2.5cm X 4 pieces
  • Brushed with Beauty / Regals Painted Patterns designer series paper (DSP) – 6.4cm X 9.5cm X 4 pieces.

Why You’ll Love This Card

This project is perfect if you enjoy making interactive cards but don’t want anything too complicated.

You’ll love this design because:

  • It looks impressive while being surprisingly easy to construct.
  • It folds flat for posting.
  • There are lots of opportunities to decorate inside and out.
  • It’s suitable for many different occasions simply by changing the stamps and papers.
  • It’s a brilliant way to showcase your favourite stamp sets and designer papers.

Watch the Video Tutorial

If you’d like to make this Double Gatefold, Double Z-Fold Card yourself, be sure to watch my step-by-step video tutorial below. I’ll guide you through every stage of creating the card, making it easy for you to recreate at home.

Whether you’re new to fun fold cards or you’ve made several before, I hope this project inspires you to give this fabulous fold a 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

A Fun Take on the Slice and Shuffle Technique.

A Fun Take on the Slice and Shuffle Technique. – Everyday Essentials – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

A Fun Take on the Slice and Shuffle Technique. – Everyday Essentials – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you’re looking for a simple cardmaking technique that creates a striking design with very little effort, then you’re going to love today’s project! The Slice and Shuffle Technique is a fantastic way to make the most of your Designer Series Paper while creating modern, eye-catching layouts.

For today’s cards, I’ve used the beautiful Everyday Essentials Designer Series Paper paired with a Lost Lagoon card base. To finish the designs, I’ve added elements from the Sincerely Noted and Meant For You Mix & Match Ephemera Packs, making these cards quick, stylish and perfect for a variety of occasions.

What is the Slice and Shuffle Technique?

The Slice and Shuffle Technique is exactly as it sounds. You cut your patterned paper into sections, rearrange the pieces, and then mount them back onto your card with small gaps between each section.

It’s an incredibly versatile technique because you can:

  • Use one sheet of Designer Series Paper or mix different patterns together.
  • Change the angle of the cuts for a completely different look.
  • Create birthday, thank you, sympathy or celebration cards simply by changing the embellishments and sentiment.

It’s one of those techniques that looks far more complicated than it actually is.

A Fun Take on the Slice and Shuffle Technique. - Everyday Essentials - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
A Fun Take on the Slice and Shuffle Technique. – Everyday Essentials – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Why I Love This Layout

One of my favourite things about this design is how it showcases multiple patterns without the card feeling too busy.

The soft green floral pattern and coordinating striped paper from the Everyday Essentials DSP work beautifully together, while the soft pink panel adds balance and warmth. The crisp white borders between each section help define the individual pieces and make the whole design really stand out.

Using Lost Lagoon as the card base ties everything together perfectly and gives the card a fresh, elegant finish.

Mix & Match Makes Cardmaking So Easy

The Sincerely Noted and Meant For You Mix & Match Ephemera Packs are perfect for this style of card.

Rather than stamping and die cutting, you can simply choose the images and sentiments that suit your occasion. It’s a brilliant way to create beautiful handmade cards in less time, making these products ideal whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter.

For these cards I’ve created two completely different occasions using exactly the same layout:

  • A cheerful birthday card featuring colourful balloons and a simple “Hooray!” sentiment.
  • A lovely thank you card decorated with a beautiful floral bouquet and coordinating sentiment.

This shows just how versatile one card sketch can be.

A Fun Take on the Slice and Shuffle Technique. - Everyday Essentials - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
A Fun Take on the Slice and Shuffle Technique. – Everyday Essentials – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of the Slice and Shuffle Technique is that every card will be unique.

Why not try experimenting with:

  • Different Designer Series Papers.
  • Seasonal colour combinations.
  • Metallic cardstock between the sections.
  • Raised panels using Stampin’ Dimensionals for added depth.
  • Different ephemera pieces or stamped focal images.

You could even make several cards at once by cutting multiple pieces of Designer Series Paper together and mixing the sections between cards.

Measurements

  • Lost Lagoon Cardstock – A6 Card Base – A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half.
  • Basic White Cardstock – 14.35cm X 10cm X 2 pieces.
  • Everyday Essentials designer series paper (DSP) – 13.85cm X 9.5cm X 3 pieces.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes the simplest techniques create the biggest impact, and the Slice and Shuffle Technique is a perfect example of that. It’s quick, uses up those treasured pieces of Designer Series Paper, and creates a design that’s both clean and contemporary.

Whether you’re making cards for birthdays, thank you notes or just because, this is a layout you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again.

I hope these projects inspire you to give the Slice and Shuffle Technique a 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

Balloon Festoon – Using the Dies To Make a Fun Card.

Balloon Festoon – Using the Dies To Make a Fun Card. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Balloon Festoon – Using the Dies To Make a Fun Card. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you’re looking for a cheerful, versatile card design that’s easy to personalise, today’s project is a perfect example. Rather than using stamped images, I’ve created these fun balloons using the Balloon Festoon dies, proving that dies alone can create a striking focal point.

Combined with the gorgeous Everyday Essentials Designer Series Paper, these cards are bright, clean and suitable for so many different occasions.

Let the Dies Do the Talking

One of my favourite things about the Balloon Festoon collection is how detailed the dies are. Even without any stamping, they create beautiful, recognisable balloon shapes that instantly become the star of the card.

The balloons have been layered in groups of three to create depth and dimension, making the design simple but eye-catching. It’s also a great reminder that your dies can often do far more than simply coordinate with stamped images.

Balloon Festoon - Using the Dies To Make a Fun Card. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Balloon Festoon – Using the Dies To Make a Fun Card. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Adding Extra Detail with a White Gel Pen

To give the balloons even more character, I added small highlights using a white gel pen.

The tiny dots create the appearance of light reflecting across the balloons, while the larger white highlights on the Misty Moonlight balloon add a realistic glossy finish. These little details only take a few moments but make a huge difference to the finished card.

A white gel pen is one of those crafting tools that I reach for time and time again because it can completely transform a project with very little effort.

Balloon Festoon - Using the Dies To Make a Fun Card. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Balloon Festoon – Using the Dies To Make a Fun Card. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Soft Neutrals Meet Bright Colour

The Everyday Essentials Designer Series Paper provides the perfect backdrop for these colourful balloons. The soft neutral polka dot pattern adds interest without competing with the focal point, allowing the bright balloon colours to really stand out.

Both cards are made using a Thick Basic White card base, keeping the overall design fresh and crisp.

For the first card I used balloons in:

  • Lost Lagoon
  • Bubble Bath
  • Darling Duckling

For the second version, I simply swapped the Lost Lagoon balloon for Misty Moonlight, creating a slightly bolder look while keeping the same overall design.

It’s amazing how changing just one colour can give a card a completely different feel.

Simple Sentiments Finish the Design

The sentiments come from a Mix & Match Ephemera Pack, making these cards wonderfully quick to complete.

Using ready-made sentiments is a fantastic way to speed up your card making while still achieving a polished, professional finish. The layered strip across the bottom also helps anchor the balloons and balances the overall layout.

One card features a cheerful Happy Birthday! greeting, while the other simply says Just a note, showing how easily this design can be adapted for different occasions.

Measurements

  • Thick Basic White Cardstock – A6 Card Base – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half.
  • Everyday Essentials designer series paper (DSP) – 14.35 cm x 10 cm

A Card Design You’ll Use Again and Again

This layout would work beautifully with almost any colour combination or patterned paper.

You could easily create versions for:

  • Birthdays
  • Congratulations
  • New baby cards
  • Retirement
  • Thinking of You
  • Thank You
  • Children’s birthdays

Simply change the balloon colours and sentiment to suit the occasion.

The clean layout also makes this a great design for batch card making when you need several cards in a short amount of time.

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

Boutique Blossoms – How I Made a Floral Garland Card.

Boutique Blossoms – How I Made a Floral Garland Card. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Boutique Blossoms – How I Made a Floral Garland Card. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you love floral cards with plenty of detail and dimension, today’s project is sure to inspire you. The beautiful Boutique Blossoms stamp and die set is perfect for creating elegant floral arrangements, and for these cards, I used the blooms to create a stunning garland effect that frames the sentiment beautifully.

The combination of layered flowers, subtle texture and delicate butterfly embellishments creates a card design that looks intricate but is surprisingly easy to recreate. By simply changing the colour palette, you can achieve two completely different looks while using exactly the same layout.

Creating the Floral Garland

The focal point of both cards is the floral garland running diagonally across the card front. I stamped, coloured and die-cut several of the floral images from the Boutique Blossoms set before arranging them into a flowing cluster.

Layering the flowers and leaves adds wonderful depth and movement to the design. The garland naturally draws the eye towards the sentiment while also creating a balanced composition across the card front.

Because the images are die-cut, it’s easy to tuck elements behind one another to build dimension and achieve a fuller arrangement.

Boutique Blossoms - How I Made a Floral Garland Card. Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Boutique Blossoms – How I Made a Floral Garland Card. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Adding Texture with the Lazy Daisy Embossing Folder

To create a soft but detailed background, I embossed a layer of cardstock using the Lazy Daisy Embossing Folder.

The floral texture complements the stamped blooms perfectly without competing for attention. It adds interest to the background while allowing the floral garland to remain the star of the card.

This is a great reminder that embossing folders can add a lot of visual impact, even when used on plain cardstock.

Elegant Sentiment Details

The birthday greeting comes from the Scalloped Blossoms stamp set.

To help it stand out against the embossed background, I matted the sentiment panel with a layer of Gold Foil. The touch of gold adds a subtle elegance and helps frame the greeting beautifully.

Positioning the sentiment slightly over the floral arrangement ties all the elements together and creates a polished finished design.

Card One: Hydrangea Hue and Peaceful Pine

For the first version, I chose a rich and striking colour combination featuring:

  • Peaceful Pine card base
  • Hydrangea Hue flowers
  • Peaceful Pine leaves
  • Black stamped details

The contrast between the bold blue florals and the dark outlines creates a dramatic and sophisticated look. The darker card base also helps the flowers stand out beautifully against the embossed background.

Boutique Blossoms - How I Made a Floral Garland Card. Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Boutique Blossoms – How I Made a Floral Garland Card. Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Card Two: Petal Pink and Crisp Cantaloupe

The second version has a much softer feel and uses:

  • Petal Pink card base
  • Crisp Cantaloupe flowers
  • Peaceful Pine leaves
  • Petal Pink accents

This colour combination creates a light, fresh and elegant card that would be perfect for spring and summer birthdays. The softer tones give the design a completely different personality while still showcasing the same floral garland layout.

Finishing Touches

To complete both cards, I added a few of the lovely In-Colour Butterfly Embellishments.

These tiny butterflies bring extra detail to the design and help fill some of the open spaces around the floral arrangement. They also reinforce the garden-inspired feel of the cards and add a little sparkle and dimension.

Why I Love This Design

One of my favourite things about this project is how versatile it is. Once you’ve created the floral garland layout, you can experiment with endless colour combinations to suit different occasions and seasons.

The Boutique Blossoms images are ideal for layering, making it easy to create cards that look detailed and impressive without requiring complicated techniques.

Whether you prefer bold florals or soft pastel blooms, this design works beautifully with both.

Video Tutorial

Be sure to watch the video tutorial below, where I show you exactly how I created these floral garland cards from start to finish.

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

Balloon Festoon – Another Idea to Use This Useful Set.

Balloon Festoon – Another Idea to Use This Useful Set. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Balloon Festoon – Another Idea to Use This Useful Set. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

The Balloon Festoon Bundle from Stampin’ Up! is one of those versatile sets that can be used in so many different ways. While it’s perfect for birthday cards and celebrations, it can also be adapted for a wide variety of occasions simply by changing the colours and sentiments.

For today’s project, I’ve created two bright and cheerful cards featuring a single balloon against a fun starry background. These designs are quick to make but still have plenty of impact thanks to the bold colours, metallic accents, and sparkling embellishments.

A Simple Design with Plenty of Impact

Sometimes a clean and simple layout is all you need. The focal point on both cards is the die-cut balloon, which stands out beautifully against the stamped background of scattered stars.

The stars create a festive feel without overwhelming the design, allowing the balloon and sentiment to remain the main focus. A few rhinestones add just the right amount of sparkle and help tie the celebratory theme together.

Balloon Festoon - Another Idea to Use This Useful Set. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Balloon Festoon – Another Idea to Use This Useful Set. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Real Red and Gold Elegance

The first card combines a Real Red card base with a luxurious Gold Foil mat layer.

The rich red balloon coordinates perfectly with the card base, while the gold stars and gold foil mat add warmth and elegance. This colour combination feels bold, festive, and ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, achievements, or any special occasion worth celebrating.

The sentiment has been kept simple with a cheerful “Let’s Celebrate”, allowing the striking colours to do most of the work.

Fresh Pool Party and Daffodil Delight

For the second card, I switched to a brighter, fresher colour palette using a Daffodil Delight card base with a Pool Party mat layer.

The coordinating Pool Party balloon creates a softer look while still keeping the celebratory feel. I love how these colours work together—they feel light, happy, and full of energy.

This version would be perfect for birthdays, congratulations, baby celebrations, or simply sending a little happiness through the post.

Balloon Festoon - Another Idea to Use This Useful Set. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Balloon Festoon – Another Idea to Use This Useful Set. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Why I Love the Balloon Festoon Bundle

One of the reasons I enjoy using the Balloon Festoon Bundle is its flexibility. The dies create beautiful balloon shapes with lovely detail, while the coordinating stamps make it easy to add decorative backgrounds and festive elements.

By simply changing the cardstock colours, mat layers, and embellishments, you can achieve completely different looks from the same basic design. It’s a great reminder that you don’t always need complicated layouts to create eye-catching handmade cards.

Give This Design a Try

If you have the Balloon Festoon Bundle in your craft room, why not experiment with some different colour combinations? Try using your favourite Stampin’ Up! colours, swap out the stars for another background image, or add extra balloons for a completely different look.

This simple layout is easy to recreate and would work beautifully for batch card making when you need several celebration cards in a hurry.

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 Diamond Gatefold Card – Step-by-Step Tutorial.

How to Create a Diamond Gatefold Card – Step-by-Step Tutorial. – Beautiful Ordinary – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stamin’ Up! Demo.

How to Create a Diamond Gatefold Card – Step-by-Step Tutorial. – Beautiful Ordinary – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stamin’ Up! Demo.

Fancy fold cards are always a wonderful way to add a little extra wow factor to your handmade creations, and today’s project is a beautiful Diamond Gatefold Card. This style of card looks intricate when displayed, but it’s surprisingly straightforward to create once you know the construction.

For this project, I created two different versions using the gorgeous Beautiful Ordinary Designer Series Paper, each with its own unique colour combination. Whether you prefer bright and cheerful or elegant and sophisticated, this design works beautifully with a variety of colour palettes.

Two Beautiful Colour Combinations

The first card features a fresh and cheerful combination of Pool Party and Daffodil Delight. The soft blue tones paired with the sunny yellow accents create a light, uplifting design that perfectly complements the patterned papers.

The second version uses the rich elegance of Pretty Peacock with accents of Coastal Cabana. This colour combination gives the card a more dramatic and sophisticated feel whilst still allowing the beautiful designer paper to take centre stage.

Both cards showcase how versatile the same layout can be simply by changing the cardstock colours and paper patterns.

How to Create a Diamond Gatefold Card - Step-by-Step Tutorial. - Beautiful Ordinary - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stamin' Up! Demo.
How to Create a Diamond Gatefold Card – Step-by-Step Tutorial. – Beautiful Ordinary – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stamin’ Up! Demo.

What Makes a Diamond Gatefold Card Special?

Unlike a traditional gatefold card where two panels meet in the centre, a Diamond Gatefold Card features angled front panels that create a striking diamond shape when closed. The layered diamond focal point becomes the star of the design and provides the perfect place for a sentiment.

The dimensional shape makes these cards ideal for birthdays, celebrations, thank you cards, or any occasion where you want your handmade card to stand out from the crowd.

How to Create a Diamond Gatefold Card - Step-by-Step Tutorial. - Beautiful Ordinary - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stamin' Up! Demo.
How to Create a Diamond Gatefold Card – Step-by-Step Tutorial. – Beautiful Ordinary – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stamin’ Up! Demo.

Decorative Details

The beautiful floral image comes from the Boutique Blossoms stamp set. I stamped the image onto a circle punched from Basic White cardstock and attached it to one of the front panels to act as both a focal point and decorative closure element.

For the greeting, I used sentiments from the Words of Wishes stamp set. The simple “Happy Birthday” sentiment sits neatly across the centre diamond panel, allowing the patterned papers and unique card shape to remain the focus of the design.

The circle embellishment is created using a punch, making it quick and easy to reproduce this design for multiple cards.

Let the Designer Paper Do the Work

One of my favourite things about this project is how the Beautiful Ordinary Designer Series Paper does much of the decorative work for you.

The mix of soft patterns and coordinating colours creates visual interest without requiring lots of stamping or embellishing. This makes the card perfect for batch creating whilst still looking impressive and detailed.

By layering the designer paper onto coordinating cardstock mats, the diamond shapes become even more defined, helping to emphasise the unique fold of the card.

Measurements

  • Pretty Peacock / Pool Party Cardstock:
    • 10″ X 4″ scored at 2″, 4″ & 8″
    • 4″ X 4″ X 3 pieces
  • Coastal Cabana / Daffodil Delight Cardstock:
    • 3 3/4″ X 3 3/4″ X 4 pieces
    • 3 3/4″ X 1 3/4″ X 4 pieces
  • Beautiful Ordinary designer series paper (DSP)
    • 3 1/2 ” X 3 1/2″ x 3 pieces in 2 coordinating designs.
    • 3 1/2″ X 1 3/4″ X 4 pieces in 2 coordinating designs.
  • Basic White Cardstock – 3 1/2″ X 3 1/2″

Perfect for Many Occasions

Although I’ve used birthday greetings on these samples, this fold can easily be adapted for many different occasions. Simply change the sentiment and papers to create:

  • Thank you cards
  • Wedding cards
  • Anniversary cards
  • Congratulations cards
  • New home cards
  • Thinking of you cards

The elegant structure makes it suitable for almost any celebration.

Watch the Full Video Tutorial

If you’d like to recreate this Diamond Gatefold Card yourself, be sure to watch the accompanying YouTube video. I walk you through the entire process step by step, making it easy to follow along and create your own version.

You’ll find all the measurements and detailed instructions in the video so you can craft along with me at your own pace.

Final Thoughts

Fancy fold cards don’t have to be complicated, and this Diamond Gatefold Card is a perfect example. The combination of simple scoring, beautiful designer paper, and coordinating cardstock creates a card that looks far more complex than it actually is.

Whether you choose the bright Pool Party and Daffodil Delight version or the elegant Pretty Peacock and Coastal Cabana version, this design is sure to impress both the maker and the recipient.

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

Balloon Festoon – How to Make a Fun Balloon-Shaped Shaker Card

Balloon Festoon – How to Make a Fun Balloon-Shaped Shaker Card – Exciting Times – Crafting Wish Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

Balloon Festoon – How to Make a Fun Balloon-Shaped Shaker Card – Exciting Times – Crafting Wish Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

If you love interactive cards with plenty of sparkle and movement, then this Balloon Festoon shaker card is such a fun project to try! Today’s card combines bright colour, bold die-cutting and lots of floating sequins to create a cheerful birthday card that’s guaranteed to make someone smile.

For this project, I created two colourful versions using Melon Mambo and Coastal Cabana. Both colours work beautifully for birthday cards and really help the shaker element stand out.

Creating the Balloon-Shaped Shaker

The star of this card is definitely the large balloon-shaped shaker window created with the Balloon Festoon stamp and die set. I love how the oversized balloon gives plenty of room for all those sparkly sequins to move around inside.

To create the shaker element, I used window sheet behind the die-cut opening and added foam adhesive strips around the edge to create depth and space for the sequins to shake freely. This is one of my favourite ways to add interactive detail to a handmade card without making it too complicated.

The sequins are from my personal stash, and I mixed soft silver tones with gold for extra sparkle and shine. The movement inside the balloon gives the card such a playful feel.

Balloon Festoon - How to Make a Fun Balloon-Shaped Shaker Card - Exciting Times - Crafting Wish Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - UK.
Balloon Festoon – How to Make a Fun Balloon-Shaped Shaker Card – Exciting Times – Crafting Wish Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

Blending Bold Colour with Clean Design

Although shaker cards can look detailed, this design keeps everything clean and simple. The bright card fronts paired with the white matting layers help frame the balloon beautifully without overwhelming the design.

The Coastal Cabana version feels fresh and fun, whilst the Melon Mambo version brings a bold pop of colour perfect for celebrations.

Adding a few loose sequins to the card front ties everything together and gives a lovely finished look.

Birthday Sentiment Details

The sentiment comes from the Exciting Times stamp set and is stamped in coordinating colours to match each card design.

  • The Coastal Cabana card uses Pretty Peacock ink
  • The Melon Mambo card uses Melon Mambo ink

I kept the sentiment layered across the bottom of the balloon so it doesn’t cover too much of the shaker window whilst still balancing the overall design.

Balloon Festoon - How to Make a Fun Balloon-Shaped Shaker Card - Exciting Times - Crafting Wish Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - UK.
Balloon Festoon – How to Make a Fun Balloon-Shaped Shaker Card – Exciting Times – Crafting Wish Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

measurements

  • Coastal Cabana / Melon Mambo 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
  • Coastal Cabana / Melon Mambo Cardstock – 13.85cm X 9.5cm.

Why I Love Shaker Cards

Shaker cards always bring a little extra joy to papercrafting projects. They’re interactive, eye-catching and surprisingly easy once you know the basic steps. Using foam adhesive strips makes creating the shaker compartment straightforward, and you can customise the filling with sequins, beads, glitter or confetti to suit any occasion.

This balloon design would also work beautifully for:

  • Celebration cards
  • Children’s birthdays
  • Congratulations cards
  • Party invitations
  • Baby cards

By simply changing the colours and embellishments, you can create endless variations.

Final Thoughts

I hope this project inspires you to give shaker cards a try if you haven’t made one before. They’re such a fun way to add movement and sparkle to your handmade cards, and the Balloon Festoon dies make creating the shaped window really easy.

Whether you prefer the fresh Coastal Cabana version or the bold Melon Mambo design, both cards are guaranteed to brighten someone’s birthday.

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