Love & Hugs – Stamp Your Own Background.

Love & Hugs – Stamp Your Own Background. – Greenery Lane. Crafting with Stampin’ Up! – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Love & Hugs – Stamp Your Own Background. – Greenery Lane. Crafting with Stampin’ Up! – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Create Beautiful Handmade Cards with a Custom Stamped Background

One of my favourite ways to get more from a stamp set is to create my own patterned backgrounds. Not only does it make your projects look unique, but it also allows you to customise the colours to suit any occasion. These cheerful Love & Hugs cards were created using the Greenery Lane stamp set and are a perfect example of how easy it is to make a striking background with just a few simple stamped images.

For today’s cards, I created two bright and colourful designs. The first combines Melon Mambo with Shaded Spruce for a bold and vibrant look, while the second uses Daffodil Delight and Shaded Spruce for a fresh, sunny feel.

Love & Hugs - Stamp Your Own Background. - Greenery Lane. Crafting with Stampin' Up! - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Love & Hugs – Stamp Your Own Background. – Greenery Lane. Crafting with Stampin’ Up! – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Build Your Background One Stamp at a Time

The Greenery Lane stamp set includes a wonderful selection of leafy images and small floral elements that work beautifully together. To create the background, I randomly stamped the foliage images in Shaded Spruce across a piece of Basic White cardstock.

Once the larger leafy images were in place, I filled the gaps with the smaller floral stamps. On one card, the flowers were stamped in Melon Mambo, while the second card features flowers stamped in Daffodil Delight. This simple colour change creates two completely different looks while using exactly the same layout.

Don’t worry about making the stamping perfectly even. A slightly random arrangement gives the background a natural and organic feel, making each card unique.

Love & Hugs - Stamp Your Own Background. - Greenery Lane. Crafting with Stampin' Up! - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Love & Hugs – Stamp Your Own Background. – Greenery Lane. Crafting with Stampin’ Up! – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

A Simple Focal Point

With a busy background already doing most of the work, the focal point can remain simple and elegant.

The sentiment, “Love and Hugs”, was stamped to coordinate with each card and then punched out using a circle punch. To help the sentiment stand out against the patterned background, I layered it onto a larger gold circle, adding a touch of shine and sophistication.

The gold accent draws the eye straight to the centre of the card while complementing the bright colours beautifully.

Why I Love This Technique

Creating your own backgrounds is a fantastic way to stretch your stamp sets and make them work harder for you. It’s also a great technique when:

  • You want coordinating patterned paper but don’t have the perfect design.
  • You need a quick card with minimal layers.
  • You want to use up scraps of cardstock.
  • You enjoy experimenting with different colour combinations.

Simply changing the ink colours can completely transform the finished design, making this technique suitable for birthdays, thank you cards, sympathy cards, congratulations cards, and so much more.

Try Different Colour Combinations

These cards would look beautiful in many other colour combinations too. Why not try:

  • Coastal Cabana and Pretty Peacock
  • Fresh Freesia and Gorgeous Grape
  • Petal Pink and Mossy Meadow
  • Pool Party and Night of Navy

The possibilities are endless, and every combination creates a completely different mood.

A Quick and Effective Card Design

If you’re looking for a card design that is easy to recreate, uses minimal supplies, and looks impressive every time, stamping your own background is definitely worth trying. The Greenery Lane stamp set makes the process simple, and the results are always beautiful.

Whether you prefer the bold contrast of Melon Mambo and Shaded Spruce or the bright freshness of Daffodil Delight and Shaded Spruce, these cards are sure to bring a smile to someone’s face.

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

Bright and Fun Thank-You Cards – Learn How to Make Them.

Bright and Fun Thank-You Cards – Learn How to Make Them. – Scalloped Blooms – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo.

Bright and Fun Thank-You Cards – Learn How to Make Them. – Scalloped Blooms – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo.

Create Cheerful Handmade Thank You Cards with Beautiful Ordinary DSP

There’s something special about sending a handmade thank you card, and these bright and cheerful designs are perfect for showing your appreciation in style. Featuring the gorgeous Beautiful Ordinary Designer Series Paper, layered blooms from the Scalloped Blooms Dies, and sentiments from the Greetings For All Ephemera Pack, these cards are full of colour, texture, and charm.

The combination of bold patterns, layered flowers, and simple sentiments creates eye-catching cards that look impressive but are surprisingly easy to make.

A Colourful Combination of Pattern and Layers

One of my favourite things about these cards is how the patterned paper does much of the hard work. The Beautiful Ordinary DSP features fresh, vibrant designs that instantly brighten any project.

For both cards, I used pieces of DSP to create decorative tags that become the focal point of the design. This is a great way to make the most of your patterned papers while adding an extra layer of interest without needing lots of additional supplies.

The layered flowers were created using the Scalloped Blooms Dies, giving each card a lovely dimensional element. A few sparkly embellishments add the perfect finishing touch.

Bright and Fun Thank-You Cards - Learn How to Make Them. - Scalloped Blooms - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo.
Bright and Fun Thank-You Cards – Learn How to Make Them. – Scalloped Blooms – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo.

Pretty Peacock and Petal Pink

The first card features a rich Pretty Peacock card base paired with layered blooms in Pool Party and Petal Pink.

The soft floral colours contrast beautifully against the deeper card base, creating a fresh and elegant look. Combined with the striped Beautiful Ordinary DSP, the result is a card that feels both modern and cheerful.

The simple “Thanks” sentiment from the Greetings For All Ephemera Pack keeps the design clean and allows the colours and layers to take centre stage.

Melon Mambo and Petal Pink

For the second card, I chose a vibrant Melon Mambo card base and layered the flowers using Melon Mambo and Petal Pink cardstock.

This version has a completely different feel despite using the same layout. The bright pink tones bring lots of energy to the design, while the Petal Pink softens the overall look and adds balance.

The honeycomb-inspired pattern from the Beautiful Ordinary DSP works perfectly with the bold floral layers, creating a fun and uplifting thank you card that would brighten anyone’s day.

Bright and Fun Thank-You Cards - Learn How to Make Them. - Scalloped Blooms - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo.
Bright and Fun Thank-You Cards – Learn How to Make Them. – Scalloped Blooms – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo.

Why I Love This Design

These cards are a great reminder that you don’t need complicated techniques to create something beautiful. By combining:

  • Patterned paper
  • Layered die-cut flowers
  • Simple sentiments
  • A few embellishments

You can quickly create cards that look polished and professional.

This design is also wonderfully versatile. Simply change the colours, DSP patterns, or sentiment and you can easily adapt it for birthdays, celebrations, thinking of you cards, or just because.

Perfect for Using Your DSP Collection

If you’re anything like me, you probably have lots of beautiful patterned paper that you’re saving for the perfect project. This card layout is an excellent way to showcase those gorgeous designs while still incorporating die-cut details and embellishments.

The tag element provides a lovely area to display your sentiment, and because it’s made from DSP, every card can look completely different depending on the pattern you choose.

Video Tutorial

Be sure to watch the video tutorial below where I’ll show you exactly how to recreate these bright and cheerful thank you cards step by step.

Thank You for Stopping By!

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

Product List

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

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

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

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

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

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

How to Create a 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

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

Tips and Tricks – New Impressions Mat – Opulent Oasis.

Tips and Tricks – New Impressions Mat – Opulent Oasis. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Tips and Tricks – New Impressions Mat – Opulent Oasis. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Today I’m sharing these beautiful floral cards created with the stunning Opulent Oasis stamp and die set. I’ve made two versions using Hydrangea Hue and Golden Glow, and although the Golden Glow card appears more orange in the photograph, it is actually a much softer gold/yellow shade in real life.

The Opulent Oasis dies are extra special because one of the dies doesn’t just cut — it also embosses gorgeous detail into the cardstock. This gives the flowers and foliage incredible dimension and makes the finished card look so elegant with very little extra effort.

Tips and Tricks - New Impressions Mat - Opulent Oasis. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Tips and Tricks – New Impressions Mat – Opulent Oasis. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Using the New Impressions Mat

If you haven’t tried the new Impressions Mat yet, this is a fantastic project to start with. It’s such a simple way to add texture and definition to your die cuts.

To emboss with the die, I used the following sandwich:

  • Base Plate
  • Die
  • Cardstock placed on top of the die
  • Impressions Mat
  • Plate 4

The embossing detail really brings the florals to life and adds that luxurious raised texture. I explain the full process in the video tutorial so you can see exactly how it works step by step.

Adding Extra Detail with Stampin’ Blends

After embossing the die cuts, I added even more depth using matching Stampin’ Blend alcohol markers. This helps highlight all the embossed lines and gives the flowers a beautifully shaded appearance.

On the Hydrangea Hue version, the darker blue shading creates a striking contrast and really draws attention to the floral centre. For the Golden Glow card, the added shading gives warmth and richness while still keeping the soft elegant feel of the design.

Tips and Tricks - New Impressions Mat - Opulent Oasis. - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Tips and Tricks – New Impressions Mat – Opulent Oasis. – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Elegant Layers and Texture

Both cards feature delicate, patterned paper backgrounds which work beautifully with the bold floral focal point. I also layered the embossed die cuts over decorative white die-cut pieces to help the flowers stand out even more.

A few pearls finish the cards perfectly and add just the right amount of detail and shine.

Why You’ll Love the Opulent Oasis Bundle

One of my favourite things about the Opulent Oasis bundle is how versatile it is. You can keep the design simple with basic die cutting or step it up with embossing and additional colouring techniques for a more detailed finish.

The embossing effect created with the Impressions Mat gives professional-looking results so easily, and it’s a wonderful way to get more from your dies.

Video Tutorial

Be sure to watch the full video tutorial where I demonstrate exactly how to create the embossing effect using the Impressions Mat, along with tips for adding colour and dimension with Stampin’ Blends.

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

Another Fun Way to Use the Garden Poetry Paper.

Another Fun Way to Use the Garden Poetry Paper. – With You In Mind – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Another Fun Way to Use the Garden Poetry Paper. – With You In Mind – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

A Stylish Way to Use Designer Series Paper

Today I’m sharing another fun card design that’s perfect for showing off your favourite Designer Series Paper. This layout creates a striking diagonal panel effect, combining patterned paper, embossed cardstock and a touch of gold foil for an elegant finish.

The cards feature the beautiful Garden Poetry Designer Series Paper, paired with sentiments from the With You in Mind stamp set. By combining texture, colour and layered embellishments, you can create a card that looks detailed and impressive but is actually very simple to assemble.

Another Fun Way to Use the Garden Poetry Paper. - With You In Mind - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Another Fun Way to Use the Garden Poetry Paper. – With You In Mind – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Creating the Diagonal Panel Design

The focal point of these cards is the diagonal panel layout. The card front is divided into two sections using a clean angled cut. One section showcases the patterned paper while the other features embossed cardstock.

For added luxury, I added a thin strip of gold foil along the diagonal join. This small detail really elevates the design and helps separate the two panels beautifully.

The embossed section uses the Stone & Vine embossing folder, which adds a lovely leafy texture that complements the botanical theme of the Designer Series Paper.

Card Colour Variations

To show how versatile this layout can be, I created two different versions using bold and rich colours.

Card One – Poppy Parade

The first card uses Poppy Parade as the main background colour. The vibrant red pairs beautifully with the soft floral pattern from the Garden Poetry paper. The sentiment Best Wishes is stamped to coordinate with the card and layered onto gold foil cardstock to tie in with the diagonal trim.

Card Two – Shaded Spruce

The second card uses Shaded Spruce for a deeper, elegant look. The rich green works wonderfully with the botanical elements of the patterned paper. The Thank You sentiment is stamped in coordinating ink and layered in the same way for a consistent design.

Another Fun Way to Use the Garden Poetry Paper. - With You In Mind - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - Lincoln UK.
Another Fun Way to Use the Garden Poetry Paper. – With You In Mind – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln UK.

Adding Dimension with Die Cuts

To soften the geometric layout, I added delicate foliage die cuts from the Pretty Florals die set. These layered leaves sit behind the sentiment panel and add dimension and interest without overpowering the design.

Using both white and gold foil die cuts gives the cards a beautiful layered look while keeping the botanical theme flowing across the entire design.

Finishing Touches

No card feels complete without a few embellishments! I finished both cards with Moody Palette dots, which add a subtle shine and draw the eye around the design.

These small details help bring the whole card together and give it a polished, professional finish.

measurements

  • Thick Basic White Cardstock – A6 Card Base – This is an A4 sheet cut in half and then folded in half.
  • Poppy Parade / Shaded Spruce – 14.35cm X 10cm X 1 piece
  • Garden Poetry designer series paper (DSP) – 14.35cm X 10cm.

A Layout You’ll Want to Use Again

This diagonal panel layout is such a great way to highlight Designer Series Paper while also incorporating texture and embellishments. It’s simple to recreate and works beautifully with many colour combinations and themes.

If you enjoy using patterned paper in your projects, this is definitely a design worth adding to your cardmaking repertoire.

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