Tag: Birthday

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

All Aflutter – How to Make a Quick, Elegant Card.

All Aflutter – How to Make a Quick, Elegant Card. – Playful Packaging – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

All Aflutter – How to Make a Quick, Elegant Card. – Playful Packaging – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Sometimes the most elegant cards are also the quickest to make, and these beautiful butterfly cards are the perfect example. With soft blended colour, delicate die cutting, and pretty stamped butterflies, these designs come together easily while still looking polished and detailed.

For today’s cards, I created two variations using the gorgeous All Aflutter stamp set and coordinating punch. One card features soft Hydrangea Hue tones with a Barely Blush card base, while the second combines Barely Blush with a rich Peaceful Pine base for a completely different look and feel.

The contrast between the soft pastel colours and the detailed white die-cut panel gives these cards such a delicate and elegant finish.

All Aflutter - How to Make a Quick, Elegant Card. - Playful Packaging - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
All Aflutter – How to Make a Quick, Elegant Card. – Playful Packaging – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Creating the Background

To create the layered look, I started with coloured mats in Hydrangea Hue and Barely Blush. I added subtle stamped details using images from the Playful Packaging stamp set. These tiny floral accents add texture and interest without overwhelming the design.

I love adding small background details like this because they help tie the entire card together and make even simple layouts feel more finished.

Adding the Eyelet Bloom Die Cut

The beautiful white panel was created using the Eyelet Bloom die. This delicate die cut adds instant elegance and creates the perfect backdrop for the butterflies.

Layering detailed white die cuts over blended or stamped backgrounds is such an easy way to create a sophisticated card design with very little effort.

All Aflutter - How to Make a Quick, Elegant Card. - Playful Packaging - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
All Aflutter – How to Make a Quick, Elegant Card. – Playful Packaging – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Beautiful Butterfly Details

The butterflies were stamped and punched using the All Aflutter bundle. Using the coordinating punch makes these cards incredibly quick to assemble while still giving a dimensional layered look.

I popped the butterflies up slightly for added depth and finished each one with rhinestones down the centre for a little sparkle.

The sentiment, “fluttering by to say hi”, works perfectly with the butterfly theme and keeps the cards suitable for so many occasions.

Measuremets

  • Barely Blush / Peaceful Pine Cardstock – A6 Card Base – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half.
  • Basic White Cardstock – 14.35cm X 10cm
  • Hydrangea Hue / Barely Blush Cardstock – 14.35cm X 10cm.

Why This Design Works So Well

This layout is ideal when you want something elegant without spending hours crafting. The combination of:

  • soft colour palettes
  • delicate die cutting
  • subtle stamping
  • dimensional butterflies
  • sparkling embellishments

creates a card that looks detailed while remaining very simple to recreate.

It’s also a fantastic design for batch making because you can easily switch the colours to create completely different looks.

Try Different Colour Combinations

This design would work beautifully in so many colour combinations. You could try:

  • soft neutrals for weddings
  • bright florals for birthdays
  • rich jewel tones for autumn
  • monochrome designs for a modern look

The butterfly images are versatile enough to suit almost any style.

Final Thoughts

I love how soft and elegant these cards turned out. The delicate die-cut detail paired with the pretty butterflies creates such a timeless design, and they come together surprisingly quickly.

If you enjoy making elegant cards without complicated techniques, this is definitely a layout worth trying.

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

Bloom Boutique – A Fun Way to Use Your Scraps

Bloom Boutique – A Fun Way to Use Your Scraps – Boutique Blossoms – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Bloom Boutique – A Fun Way to Use Your Scraps – Boutique Blossoms – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you’ve got a pile of patterned paper scraps sitting on your desk, this project is your perfect excuse to use them! Today’s card is all about turning those leftover pieces into a soft, layered collage with a beautifully coordinated floral finish.

A Soft & Elegant Colour Palette

This card starts with a Barely Blush card base, giving it that delicate and feminine feel right from the beginning. Paired with the Bloom Boutique DSP, the look becomes effortlessly elegant thanks to the mix of soft florals and subtle gold foiling.

The gentle contrast between the blush tones and the deeper greens creates a balanced design that feels both fresh and timeless.

Bloom Boutique - A Fun Way to Use Your Scraps - Boutique Blossoms - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Bloom Boutique – A Fun Way to Use Your Scraps – Boutique Blossoms – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Using Scraps Creatively

One of the highlights of this card is the collage-style background. Instead of cutting into full sheets, I’ve used a variety of leftover DSP pieces and layered them at different angles.

This technique:

  • Reduces waste
  • Adds visual interest
  • Makes every card completely unique

There’s no right or wrong placement here—just have fun arranging your pieces until it feels right!

Die Cut Florals for Dimension

To anchor the design, I’ve added die cut florals from the Boutique Blossoms dies in Peaceful Pine and Barely Blush.

These layered florals:

  • Add depth and texture
  • Soften the geometric feel of the paper layers
  • Bring everything together into a cohesive focal point

Even without stamping, the dies alone create a stunning statement.

Bloom Boutique - A Fun Way to Use Your Scraps - Boutique Blossoms - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Bloom Boutique – A Fun Way to Use Your Scraps – Boutique Blossoms – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Finishing with a Simple Sentiment

The sentiment from Opulent Oasis is kept clean and simple, allowing the background and florals to shine. Matting the sentiment helps it stand out without overwhelming the design.

Why You’ll Love This Card Design

This style is perfect when you want something:

  • Quick yet impactful
  • Great for using up scraps
  • Easy to customise with different colour schemes

You could easily recreate this with any DSP you have on hand and achieve a completely different look each 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

Make a Simple Die Cut Card – Words & Wishes.

Make a Simple Die Cut Card – Words & Wishes. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Make a Simple Die Cut Card – Words & Wishes. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

If you love creating elegant cards without lots of fuss, this project is a perfect example of how simplicity can still feel really special. Today I’m sharing two beautiful cards made using the Words & Wishes dies, paired with the gorgeous Bloom Boutique Designer Series Paper.

This DSP is such a dream to work with — delicate florals combined with subtle gold foiling make it feel instantly luxurious. I’ve echoed that gold detail in the die-cut sentiments to tie everything together beautifully.

Make a Simple Die Cut Card - Words & Wishes. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Make a Simple Die Cut Card – Words & Wishes. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

A Closer Look at the Design

Both cards follow the same layout, making this a great design to replicate when you want to create multiple cards quickly.

The background features the Lazy Daisy embossing folder, which adds soft texture and interest without overpowering the focal elements. It’s one of those subtle details that really elevates a simple card.

A vertical strip of Bloom Boutique DSP adds contrast and draws the eye, while also showcasing that lovely gold foiling.

Card One – Thank You

The first card uses a Golden Glow card base, giving it a warm and uplifting feel.

The sentiment is cut in Hydrangea Hue, layered with gold to complement the DSP. The combination of soft blue and warm gold works so beautifully together, creating a balanced and eye-catching design.

Card Two – Best Wishes

For the second card, I’ve switched things up slightly with a Peaceful Pine card base.

This deeper tone gives the card a more classic and rich feel. The gold sentiment really pops against the darker colour, making it perfect for more formal or heartfelt occasions.

Make a Simple Die Cut Card - Words & Wishes. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Make a Simple Die Cut Card – Words & Wishes. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Why This Design Works

This style of card is a go-to for so many reasons:

  • It’s quick and easy to recreate
  • You can change colours and sentiments for any occasion
  • It uses small pieces of DSP — perfect for using up your stash
  • The embossing adds texture without extra layers

It’s a great reminder that you don’t need lots of layers or complicated techniques to create something truly beautiful.

measurements

  • Golden Glow / Peaceful Pine 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
  • Bloom Boutique DSP – ( Designer Series Paper) – 13.35cm X 3cm
  • Hydrangea Hue / Peaceful Pine Cardstock – 13.85cm X 3.5cm.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ever stuck for inspiration, try starting with a simple layout like this and let your papers and sentiments do the talking. The combination of texture, a touch of shine, and a clean design is always a winner.

Thank You for Stopping By!

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

Product List

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

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

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

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

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

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

Make this Cinched Curtain Style Card With Me.

Make this Cinched Curtain Style Card With Me. – Bloom Boutique – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Make this Cinched Curtain Style Card With Me. – Bloom Boutique – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

If you love cards that look impressive but are actually simple to create, this cinched curtain style card is going to be right up your street! The layered folds give a beautiful dimensional effect, almost like fabric draping, yet the technique itself is wonderfully easy and beginner-friendly.

For this project, I’ve used the gorgeous Bloom Boutique Designer Series Paper, which features delicate florals and touches of gold foiling. That hint of gold really elevates the design and pairs perfectly with the gold foil mat and heat embossing used on one of the cards.

Make this Cinched Curtain Style Card With Me. - Bloom Boutique - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Make this Cinched Curtain Style Card With Me. – Bloom Boutique – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Why You’ll Love This Card Design

This style is a real showstopper, but without the fuss. The “cinched” effect is created simply by folding the paper into sections and bringing it together in the centre—no complicated scoring or fancy tools required.

It’s also a brilliant way to showcase both sides of your patterned paper, making it ideal for those special papers you don’t want to hide!

Design Details

Both cards feature a Crips Cantaloupe card base, which adds a soft, warm tone that complements the floral papers beautifully.

  • One card keeps things soft and subtle with coordinating tones and delicate patterning
  • The second card steps things up with gold heat embossing, tying in perfectly with the gold foiling in the DSP and the gold foil circle

The focal point is a simple circular sentiment from the Greenery Lane stamp set. Keeping the sentiment clean and centred allows the folded “curtain” detail to really shine.

Make this Cinched Curtain Style Card With Me. - Bloom Boutique - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Make this Cinched Curtain Style Card With Me. – Bloom Boutique – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Tips for Creating the Cinched Effect

  • Use a bone folder to get crisp folds for that polished finish
  • Don’t worry about perfection—slight variations actually add to the charm
  • Secure the centre well before adding your sentiment layer to keep everything in place
  • Mix and match patterns for a more dynamic look

Measurements

  • Crisp Cantaloupe Cardstock – A6 Card Base – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half.
  • Basic White Cardstock – 14.35cm X 10cm.
  • Bloom Boutique DSP – (Designer Series Paper):
    • 14.35cm X 4.5cm X 2 pieces
    • 14.35cm X 6.5cm X 1 piece

Perfect for Any Occasion

This design is incredibly versatile. While I’ve used a soft floral theme with a “love and hugs” sentiment, you could easily switch it up for birthdays, thank you cards, or even Christmas by changing the paper and sentiment.

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

Orchid Opulence – Make a Bullseye Style Card. Beautiful Florals.

Orchid Opulence – Make a Bullseye Style Card. Beautiful Florals. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

Orchid Opulence – Make a Bullseye Style Card. Beautiful Florals. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

If you love clean and elegant card designs with maximum impact, this bullseye style card is one you’ll definitely want to try. The concept is simple—draw the eye straight to a bold focal point in the centre—and it works beautifully with floral images.

For this project, I’ve used a single large floral image as the star of the show, creating two variations using different colour combinations: Golden Glow and Crisp Cantaloupe. Both cards are finished with coordinating bases in Golden Glow and Peaceful Pine, giving each design a cohesive and polished look.

Orchid Opulence - Make a Bullseye Style Card. Beautiful Florals. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln, UK.
Orchid Opulence – Make a Bullseye Style Card. Beautiful Florals. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

A Simple Bullseye Design That Works Every Time

The beauty of this layout is how effortlessly it guides your eye. By placing the floral image right in the centre and keeping everything else subtle, the design feels balanced and intentional without being complicated.

The flower is stamped and layered with soft greenery behind it, helping to frame the focal point while still keeping that clean aesthetic. A few embellishments add just the right amount of detail without overwhelming the design.

Adding Texture with the Lazy Daisy Embossing Folder

To elevate the background, I’ve used the Lazy Daisy embossing folder. This adds a gorgeous layer of texture while keeping everything tone-on-tone, so it doesn’t compete with the main image.

This is a great technique if you want your card to feel more detailed without adding extra layers or bulk. The subtle daisy pattern complements the floral focal point perfectly.

Orchid Opulence - Make a Bullseye Style Card. Beautiful Florals. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln, UK.
Orchid Opulence – Make a Bullseye Style Card. Beautiful Florals. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

Colour Combinations That Shine

  • Golden Glow version – warm, cheerful and perfect for a bright, uplifting feel
  • Crisp Cantaloupe version – softer and slightly more delicate, with a fresh, modern look

Both options show how simply changing the colour can completely transform the overall feel of your card while keeping the same layout.

Measurements

  • Golden Glow / Peaceful Pine 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.

Finishing Touches

The “Best Wishes” sentiment keeps the card versatile for many occasions. A few coordinating embellishments are scattered across the background to tie everything together and add a little sparkle.

This design is proof that you don’t need lots of layers or complicated techniques to create something truly beautiful—simple can be incredibly effective.

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. – Make a Birthday Bunch of Balloon Card.

Balloon Festoon. – Make a Birthday Bunch of Balloon Card. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

Balloon Festoon. – Make a Birthday Bunch of Balloon Card. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

If you’re looking for a bright, cheerful and fun handmade birthday card idea, this Balloon Festoon design is perfect! Using bold primary colours and simple layering, this card really pops and brings instant joy—ideal for birthdays of all ages.

Keeping It Bright with Primary Colours

For this project, I kept the colour palette clean and classic using primary tones:

  • Hydrangea Hue (blue)
  • Real Red
  • Daffodil Delight (yellow)

These colours work beautifully together and give the card a playful, party-ready feel. The bold contrast against the background really helps the balloons stand out.

Balloon Festoon. - Make a Birthday Bunch of Balloon Card. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln, UK.
Balloon Festoon. – Make a Birthday Bunch of Balloon Card. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

Building the Balloon Bunch

The Balloon Festoon stamp and die bundle makes it so easy to create a full cluster of balloons. I stamped and die cut multiple balloons, then layered them together to create that “bunch” effect.

To add depth and interest:

  • Some balloons are adhered flat
  • Others are popped up using dimensionals

This simple technique gives the design a lovely sense of dimension without overcomplicating things.

Adding Texture and Detail

The balloon strings are created using Basic White Baker’s Twine, which adds a soft, tactile element to the card. It’s a small detail, but it really enhances the overall design and ties everything together beautifully.

The background features a fun polka dot design, keeping the look playful and cohesive. I love how switching the background colour (blue vs yellow) creates two different looks using the same layout.

Balloon Festoon. - Make a Birthday Bunch of Balloon Card. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln, UK.
Balloon Festoon. – Make a Birthday Bunch of Balloon Card. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

Measurements

  • Thick Basic White Cardstock – A6 Card Base – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half.
  • Brights Painted Patterns DSP (Designer Series Paper) – 14.35cm X 10cm.

Finishing Touches

The sentiment is kept clean and bold with a “Happy Birthday” greeting, allowing the balloons to remain the star of the show. A few small embellishments add just the right amount of extra detail without overwhelming the design.

This is a great go-to layout that you can easily recreate in different colour combinations or for different occasions—just switch out the sentiment!

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