Tag: Flowers

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

New Series – One Background Stamp. – Five Different Techniques.

New Series – One Background Stamp. – Five Different Techniques. – Moody Leaves – Crafting With Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

New Series – One Background Stamp. – Five Different Techniques. – Moody Leaves – Crafting With Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

I’m so excited to kick off a brand new series here on the blog! Over the next five months, I’ll be focusing on one background stamp and sharing five different techniques to help you get even more from your supplies.

This month, we’re starting with the beautiful Moody Leaves background stamp, and I’m showing you a simple but striking technique that creates bold, colourful impact with minimal effort.

New Series - One Background Stamp. - Five Different Techniques. - Moody Leaves - Crafting With Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - UK.
New Series – One Background Stamp. – Five Different Techniques. – Moody Leaves – Crafting With Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

This Month’s Technique – Stamped Strips

For this first project, I stamped the Moody Leaves background in each of the new In Colours:

  • Hydrangea Hue
  • Gold Glow
  • Peaceful Pine
  • Crisp Cantaloupe
  • Barely Blush

Once all the panels were stamped, I cut them into strips and then reassembled them, mixing the colours to create a fresh, modern design. This technique is such a great way to stretch your stamped backgrounds and create multiple card fronts from just a few pieces.

New Series - One Background Stamp. - Five Different Techniques. - Moody Leaves - Crafting With Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Demo - UK.
New Series – One Background Stamp. – Five Different Techniques. – Moody Leaves – Crafting With Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – UK.

Why You’ll Love This Technique

This is one of those techniques that looks really impressive but is incredibly easy to do. It’s perfect if:

  • You want to use multiple colours without overthinking placement
  • You love clean but eye-catching designs
  • You enjoy getting the most out of a single stamped panel

Each card turns out slightly different depending on how you arrange your strips, making every project unique.

Design Details

I kept the layout clean and let the background do all the talking. The bold leaf pattern really shines when broken into strips, and the variation in colour adds depth and interest.

To finish, I added a simple sentiment—“Best Wishes”—which works perfectly for so many occasions. One version is kept minimal, while the other is stepped up slightly with a mat layer to frame the sentiment and add a touch of elegance.

Measurements

  • Hydrangea Hue / 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 3 pieces.

What’s Coming Next?

Next month, I’ll be back with another technique using the same Moody Leaves background stamp. I love how this series will show just how versatile one stamp can be—so make sure you check back to see the next idea!

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

Garden Poetry – Make this Window Pane Style Card With Me.

Garden Poetry – Make this Window Pane Style Card With Me. – Simply Said – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

Garden Poetry – Make this Window Pane Style Card With Me. – Simply Said – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Demo – Lincoln, UK.

If you’re looking for a simple yet striking card design, this Window Pane style layout is a fantastic technique to try. By dividing your patterned paper into panels, you can create a beautiful framed effect that looks intricate but is actually very easy to achieve. Today I’m sharing two versions of this design using the gorgeous Garden Poetry Designer Series Paper.

This style works wonderfully with patterned paper because the design continues across each section, giving the card a cohesive and elegant look.

A Simple Layout That Looks Impressive

For both cards, I created a window pane effect by dividing the Designer Series Paper into four equal sections and adding thin cardstock strips to create the pane lines. This technique frames the pattern beautifully and gives the card a polished finish.

The layered look also adds dimension without making the card bulky, which is perfect if you’re planning to post your cards.

Card Colour Combinations

I made two different versions of the card to show how changing the colour combination can completely transform the overall look.

Blue Floral Version

  • Card base: Blueberry Bushel
  • Matting layer: Berry Burst
  • Designer Series Paper: Garden Poetry

This version has a fresh, bright feel. The blues in the patterned paper really stand out against the Berry Burst mat, giving the card a lovely pop of colour.

Purple Floral Version

  • Card base: Berry Burst
  • Matting strips: Blackberry Bliss
  • Designer Series Paper: Garden Poetry

This combination creates a deeper, richer look. The Blackberry Bliss framing highlights the floral pattern beautifully and gives the card a more dramatic finish.

Finishing Touches

To complete the design, I added a simple stamped sentiment from the Simply Said stamp set and placed it across the lower section of the card. This placement keeps the focus on the beautiful patterned paper while still giving the card a clear focal point.

A few small embellishments add just a hint of sparkle without overwhelming the design.

Why I Love This Layout

This window pane style card is one of those layouts that you’ll find yourself using again and again because it works with almost any patterned paper.

It’s perfect for:

  • Using up smaller pieces of Designer Series Paper
  • Showcasing beautiful patterns
  • Creating elegant cards quickly
  • Making multiple cards in different colour combinations

Once you try this technique, you’ll see just how versatile it is!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Beautiful Designer Paper Choice

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

For my samples, I created two different colour versions:

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

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

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

Decorative Sentiment Feature

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

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

Why You’ll Love This Fold Flat Box

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

Some of the things I love about this design include:

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

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

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

Perfect for So Many Occasions

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

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

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

Measurements

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

Thank You for Stopping By!

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

Product List

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

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

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

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

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

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

Creating the Soft Ink Blended Background

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

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

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

Building the Sweet Garden Scene

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

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

The scene includes:

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

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

Adding Layers and Texture

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

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

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

Why Scene Cards Are So Fun to Make

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

This type of card is also perfect for:

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

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

Measurements

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

Thank You for Stopping By!

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

Product List

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

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

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

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

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

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Fun Stamped Background

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

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

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

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

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

Retiring In Colours

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

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

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

Simple but Sparkly

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

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

Why One Layer Cards Are So Useful

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

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

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

Thank You for Stopping By!

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

Product List

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

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

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

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

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

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

How to Add Texture to a Card with Embellishments – Tutorial

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

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

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

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

Choosing the Right Card Base

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

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

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

Creating a Textured Focal Panel

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

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

Adding “Bump” Texture with Embellishments

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

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

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

measurements

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

Why Texture Matters in Cardmaking

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

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

Thank You for Stopping By!

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

Product List

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

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

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

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

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

Until next time, Enjoy Being Creative!
Ashee xx

How to Use Layering Stencils to Create A Beautiful Background

How to Use Layering Stencils to Create A Beautiful Background – Layers of Beauty – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Dem0

How to Use Layering Stencils to Create A Beautiful Background – Layers of Beauty – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Dem0

Layering stencils are one of my favourite tools for creating detailed, eye-catching backgrounds with little effort – and today’s cards are the perfect example of just how effective they can be. Using the Layers of Beauty stamp set, along with its coordinating dies and layering stencils, I’ve created two floral cards that are full of colour, depth and elegance.

If you love the look of hand-coloured images but want a quicker, more consistent result, layering stencils are an absolute game-changer.

Why Layering Stencils Are So Effective

The Layers of Beauty set is designed to make colouring easy and enjoyable. Each stencil layer builds on the last, allowing you to add highlights, shadows and depth without needing advanced colouring techniques. The result is a beautifully shaded floral design that looks far more complicated than it actually is.

Because the stencils line up perfectly with the stamped image, you can confidently add colour knowing everything will stay crisp and clean. It’s a fantastic option whether you’re new to stencilling or already love working with inks and blends.

How to Use Layering Stencils to Create A Beautiful Background - Layers of Beauty - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Dem0
How to Use Layering Stencils to Create A Beautiful Background – Layers of Beauty – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Dem0

Colour Combinations That Bring the Florals to Life

For these cards, I’ve created two different colourways to show just how versatile this set can be.

The first card features a soft yet rich floral palette using:

  • Bubble Gum
  • Berry Burst
  • Blackberry Bliss

This combination gives the flowers a romantic feel, with the deeper tones adding lovely contrast and definition.

The second card has a warmer, bolder look, using:

  • Calypso Coral
  • Poppy Parade
  • Cherry Cobbler

These colours work beautifully together to create vibrant, striking florals that really stand out against the background.

Changing the colour palette alone gives the same design a completely different mood, making this set ideal for building a varied card collection.

How to Use Layering Stencils to Create A Beautiful Background - Layers of Beauty - Crafting with Ashee - Independent Stampin' Up! Dem0
How to Use Layering Stencils to Create A Beautiful Background – Layers of Beauty – Crafting with Ashee – Independent Stampin’ Up! Dem0

Adding Vellum for Softness and Dimension

To help the sentiment and extra floral image stand out, I’ve added vellum across the bottom of each card. This simple layer softens the busy floral background while still allowing the design underneath to show through.

Vellum is such a great way to add separation without hiding your hard work, and it also adds a touch of elegance and dimension to the finished card.

The sentiments come from the Greetings For You ephemera pack, which makes finishing a card quick and easy while still looking polished and professional.

Perfect for Many Occasions

These cards are wonderfully versatile and would suit so many occasions – birthdays, thank you cards, thinking of you, or even just a happy note to brighten someone’s day. The combination of detailed florals, soft vellum and bold sentiments makes them both beautiful and practical.

If you’ve been curious about layering stencils, this is a fantastic place to start. They really do take the guesswork out of colouring and give you stunning results every 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